Thinking of getting into DSLR Video

Hey folks,

So as the title say, thinking about getting into video with my 5D2, primary for weddings, but probably for secondary video footage since we already have a primary video guy. Got all the audio stuff, wireless mics, etc, handled already, so all I would really do is shoot video.

I want to start out with the basic stuff, so I can concentrate on shooting the actual video rather than worry about any "rigs".

So I was looking at the monopods.

http://www.manfrotto.c​om …0/561BHDV/_/%5B​561BHDV%5D

What are some of the differences between the models, like for instance between the 561BHDV and 561BHDV-1? I can't tell!

I think another thing I might want to get is one of those LCD magnifier attachments.

Again, want to keep things basic for now. I'll be shooting secondary footage in-between my photography stuff.

Any suggestions would be welcomed!!!

Watch the cinivate caravan episodes,
http://vimeo.com …videos/page:3/s​ort:newest

I bought a Zacuto Z-Finder and a monitor for video. I haven't used the Z-Finder once, but the monitor has been fantastic. I'm sure I'll find a use for the Z-Finder eventually.

What about the Mafrotto Monopods? Having a difficult time distinguishing the difference between the models.

I honestly don't know what separates the cream from the crap when it comes to monopods. I have a Manfrotto 3265 ball grip head that is fantastic, though. Performance isn't really an issue when I'm using a monopod: I just need something to keep the camera stable, with a minimum of fuss when adjusting. I probably could have saved a few bucks on the monopod but went with Manfrotto. It's been great.

/not very helpful

I don't find monopods useful for video. The only thing they prevent is up/down motion, but not left-right nor front-back nor rotation, so they still look like a handheld shot to me. They're sort of ok at faking a handheld balance system, but you can get better results for less money with some PVC, weights, and creativity.

For weddings you want the 561BHDV-1. I think the fluid head is different.

IUnknown wrote in post #12384472
For weddings you want the 561BHDV-1. I think the fluid head is different.

That's exactly the model I was looking at.

nicksan wrote in post #12383791
What about the Mafrotto Monopods? Having a difficult time distinguishing the difference between the models.

Scratch the idea of using a monopod for video, save your bucks and buy a decent tripod with a fluid head.

Also don't skimp or cut corners when selecting a tripod or head as good ones are not inexpensive but cheap ones will make you video look cheap and keep in mind there is nothing wrong with buying a used one, with the economy as tanked as it is there is a lot of used but good gear hitting the streets.

Wayne

Too late, bought the 561BHDV-1.
I have a bunch of tripods already...so maybe I can just buy a head to have that option.

What's wrong with monopods? Stillmotion guys use them and it sure is better than actual handheld shots. It's technique...

IUnknown wrote in post #12383699
Watch the cinivate caravan episodes,
http://vimeo.com …videos/page:3/s​ort:newest

BTW, thanks for this. Extremely useful!

Omaru wrote in post #12384873
What's wrong with monopods? Stillmotion guys use them and it sure is better than actual handheld shots. It's technique...

uhh,

a monopod is not a substitute for a tripod. for video, at least.

Omaru wrote in post #12384873
What's wrong with monopods? Stillmotion guys use them and it sure is better than actual handheld shots. It's technique...

With still work monopods are at best a quick and dirty compromise where one wants to setup shoot and run without taking the time to setup a tripod, with video they a even more of a compromise as their inherent instability become quite a bit more noticeable within the moving picture.

Wayne

OK, next up. I need a mic. Nothing extravagant. Something simple. Again, this is for secondary coverage at weddings.

I was looking at the Rode VideoMic Pro. How's that better than say their Stereo Video Mic?

Also, what would you guys recommend as far as mounting these things? Say if I need to use the Mic and also a light panel, what's the best way to mount them with the camera and monopod?