Requests – Let me know what else you would like me to link.
translation services
As ou can imagine – I’ve put a LOT of time into this gear section page – both in listing all the items that I use, linking to the manufacturers page, as well as allowing you to purchase the gear. I’m also adding images and video shot with the gear – and more and more OF the gear in use. This is a page where I’d like to get your feedback on WHAT ELSE YOU’RE INTERESTED in having me list… Basically post a message in the comments page of this post – and if I use it or know a fair amount about the piece of gear – I’ll list it!
I would be interested to see what Computers, Laptops, Displays, and Strobes you use.
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Also maybe pictures or even a tour of your personal workspace.
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I would like to read your opinion on the 60d, im on a budget saving for the 7d, (primarily for stills but also would definetly use it for video, im new to it), but since the release of the 60d, im tempted to buy it instead. cheers man !!!
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It would be interesting to see your personal workspace, how do you arrange all the steps for post.
I also would like to see More cinema lights like HMI par 64 maxibrute dino light and so on, I came with a photo background and I have difficulty in thinking in a more continous light way.
And it would be nice some sort of old lens test (hasselblad leica) with also some real test for seeing the difference between all the different looks of the lens. ( In this moment I don’t know if invest in a zeiss kit or a leica R kit what would be the sbest choice?)
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I would be interested in seeing older fd prime lens’s if you have any and how they are as a lower budget version of a zeiss or something similar. Also lower budget sliders and tripods would be amazing.
Thanks
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I also would love to hear your thoughts on the new 60D…while there has been a little criticism of build quality and ease of use of button system…it seems like this camera could be a fantastic choice for budget video work…it has manual audio and the adjustable screen option which could allow some fantastic creative options for those of us who don’t want to be weighed down with tonnes of equipment.
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BTS photos, videos, schemes, diagrams if possible!
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workspace tour, workflow tour and still photo related items
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Your backup routine and everything involved. Home servers? off site backup, etc. You have more data than I can imagine and would love to know how you deal with it and keep it safe!
Thanks
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specific step by step workflow, settings
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Go ahead and add your soul to the list. I mean since we are asking for almost everything else ;). OK, I really just would like to see more of your opinions in general. Perhaps on software and workflow? Thanks!
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please address the issues or limitations of DSLR videos and their fixes too. like Aliasing, Moire, Jello effects, Strobing, Frame drop, jittering etc
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Hey Vince. Please share your thoughts on some of the more budget-conscious 7″ HDMI displays. Thanks!
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Headphones for a mic or boom operator.
Entry level headphones in the ~$200 range. Also if there any better headphones in the $400-700 range that do not require a separate amp.
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Hi Vincent, I put out a request in comments section on accessories, but I’d like to get your take on VariND (Singh-Ray) versus FaderND (Lightcraft) filters. Not only comparing those two (if you use them both), but also a technical explanation on how and when to use them. I’ve read that they’re most effective at 90 degrees away from the sun. Why is that?
Thanks very much.
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Also, are you planning to review the Panasonic AF100?
Is this going to be the DSLR-killer, like some say (Barry Green, Peter Parnham), whereas others (Stu Maschwitz) are more in doubt (like I am).
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Okay, one more – what type of protective cover do you use to shoot in the rain? I find that most of the solutions (I have a ThinkTank Hydrophobia) solve things for photographers, but not for us DSLR shooters (who need to attach a Z-Finder).
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Can you post Canon custom picture style presets that optimize dynamic range and bitrate.
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Greg Greenhaw Reply:
October 19th, 2010 at 7:10 pm
@Greg Greenhaw, Also can you give you opinion of leica r lenses and the ts-e lenses for video use.
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Vincent, Have you tried the Zeiss ZE 35mm f/2 for Canon? I absolutely love the 35 1.4 but a lot of people have been pointing to this lens instead. Which one would you go for?
Thanks.
Philip
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Thank you for asking the online community Vincent. I would be very pleased if one of your custom rig configurations would be for dslrs on steadicams. What cables you find work well for connecting monitor/camera/battery? What focus motor gears you prefer? A demonstration of the wireless box to send focusing and monitor signal to your focus assistant. Thanks again.
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Hi Vincent, I just wanted to say thank you for taking the time to put together such a great section. This past month I started a new job in which I was asked to put together an equipment list for a department that was going to start using HDDSLRs to shoot video and photo. Your site was THE go to site for me. I basically used it as a check list and starting point for my list. AWESOME! You made my job so much easier. I’m also going to be putting together my own HDDSLR system soon and this is great guidance for me. Thanks again for everything!
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Hello – Thanks for the fantastic gear pages! I was wondering if you can show us what you mean when you say you use the Litepanel 1×1 bicolor and bifocus lights in combo,2 x 2?
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Wonderful stuff. Enjoyed reading it. You’ve stated that you’ll avoid the negative side of things, but I’m actually interested in what’s not here. In what you think is bullshit or in some relative ranking of gear from ‘must have’ to ‘marginally useful’.
For example, I know you heart your O’Connor gear but I think the company provides the three worst accessories in this list for this market and I absolutely believe that you’re misleading people.
1) Every time I see someone with a Matte Box on a DSLR I feel the money could have been spent better elsewhere. I guess you could argue that clients like the look, but it seems ridiculous when ND filters and lens hoods are widely and cheaply available. I call bullshit on Matte Boxes. It should the the last thing someone buys.
2) Follow Focus. If you’re on a monopod or a tripod is it really that hard to hit your marks, on anything that isn’t a 1.2 lens? And if you’re going handheld… why exactly are you going handheld with a DSLR again? Get a wide lens and learn how to use a.
steadicam
3) Nobody should be encouraged to readily pan & tilt a DSLR in 2010. All of the problems quickly get worse. And a great fluid head built for heavy gear, like the O’Connor makes it all worse because you’re tempted to over-use it, and overload the camera with accessories.
& you need to include After Effects and Cinema 4D or Maya in your software category. Any indie team can make far more money investing time and effort in those products than, say, a matte box.
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What a wonderful site!
I would love to see what gear packages you would recommend within, for example, $5000, $10,000, $25,000, $50,000 and $100,000 budgets. The goal would be to get the most flexibility (range of shots, the ability to shoot in more locations etc.) while maintaining high quality visuals.
I think I learned more reading your site than I did in three years of college. Thanks again for all your help!
Eliot
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I am missing the steel plates you used for Beijing.
Yes, Workflow is interesting too. I am struggeling with Aperture 3. Too slow for me 😉
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What about audio? I’ve switched from my HPX170 to a 1D MKIV for 90% of my production, but I’m still falling back on the 170 for anything that requires audio. Do you have a solution for one-man bands?
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Vincent-
Thank you so much for being an inspiration, as well as providing such thoughtful insight into all that you do.
Your Gear guide is EXCELLENT!
I would love to see what it is you utilize as far as compute power, Data Storage, backup software/ hardware, etc. I have been trying to build the best setup for me for a while now and I have Terabytes of current data and backup/ archive data that I am trying to get a better handle on. Any insight here is GREATLY appreciated!
-Chad
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Thank you Vincent, I’ve learned a lot. The Zacuto Shootout showed some green screen work with the 5D. What green screen brand, type (green/blue sides), size and supports would you recommend?
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I really liked custom configuration four of your shoulder mount kit. One of my favorite parts is the Oconnor O-Box, and it’s relationship with the O-Grips. I’m left wondering three things. 1.) For someone wanting to dumb things down to a manual follow focus, could the RedRockMicro microFollowFocusV2 be used in place of the wireless follow focus? 2.) What would this kit look like with Zacuto parts? and 3.) Could you offer a step by step approach to someone who wanted to build this kit, but who couldn’t buy it all at once? That to say, if I’m looking to build a kit around the O-Box and O-Grips, how would I do it incremental?
Thanks in advance for any suggestions you are able to offer.
Rick
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
January 20th, 2011 at 10:15 pm
1. Yes of course.
2. Zacuto makes great products. I use some of them but have been a Redrock user since the beginning of HDDSLR days. I find that Redrock makes great products that are affordable for most people getting into HDDSLRs. You can obviously see that I list higher end O’Connor / Viewfactor / and other mfrs rigs and accessories that come with a price tag to match.
3. I’ve done the best to do that with all 4 configurations listed here. It took us 4-6 weeks to get that done – a LOT of work. But we’re going to continue doing this type of thing for sure.
Cheers and thanks! v
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Forgive my ignorance… If someone had the high end Impero Wireless Follow Focus, would they still need a non-wireless (normal) follow focus like the RR Follow Focus V2 for when they want to both hold the camera on their shoulder and pull focus for themselves? In other words, is it possible to mount the wireless follow focus when you need to use it like a non-wireless follow focus?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
January 24th, 2011 at 11:47 pm
No – you would want to have a standard FF system – cheers- v
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Hi Vincent
Just wondering what camera straps you think wok best both wrist and over the should for DSLR’s.
Cheers
Josh
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Wow! Excellent work here and a LOT of it. I’m satisfied. Thank you so much!!
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What do you think of the SmallHD DP6 monitor?
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I too really like the LitePanel lights, but with the exception of when you’re working in close they just don’t have the power. I agree that they are pretty expensive too especially when you need 10 or 12 sources.
Coming from print I love the versatility of strobe and 5000K is very nice too.
What’s out there that fills this gap?
What else are you working with?
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I am looking at investing in a starter HDSLR system for shooting video. I am looking at the Redrock follow focus v2 and the Marshall 5″ monitor as the main components and I am looking at – and want the ability to build out.
The Low Profile system uses the Zacuto Z-Finder instead of the Marshall and does not have the ability to build out so that isn’t what I am looking for, but the Run and Gun doesn’t have a follow focus.
The indie is more than I want to spend right now and I am not looking at a matte box or shoulder rig and I want to keep things under $1500.00 – $2000.00 if possible.
I thought about it and the stripped down Indie Filmmaker without the Matte Box setup and the shoulder rig is probably what I am looking for.
I don’t know however, what pieces to leave out to just eliminate the aforementioned shoulder and Matte Box setup and still have the ability to add them later and not leave out a piece that I need to have the rest come together.
Any help would be much appreciated.
I have a Canon 5d 2, a Canon 1D Mark 4 and I am a Freelance photojournalist but want to branch out into more video.
Thank you.
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I would love to see a couple of the basic hot-shoe flashes you would use for a gig (the high end, and not so high end versions of them!)
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Hey, just curious what kind of underwater housing or cameras you use for your spectacular underwater shots?
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What lens test websites to you use, or how do you do your lens testing? I keep reading about the quality of the new Zeiss lenses, but wonder if I’ll get a noticble quality set up over my Canon L lenses?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
July 12th, 2011 at 12:45 am
I do my own testing w/ lens charts etc. You’ll see a NOTICEABLE difference w/ lenses wider than 50mm w/ Zeiss edge to edge vs Canon when shooting wide open… no comparison really.
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I would like to see more of how you use your GoPro HD Hero cameras and maybe how you combine the footage with hdslrs in post.
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What kind of digital slate do you use?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
August 8th, 2011 at 2:46 pm
Denecke (it’s on my gear page)
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@Vincent Laforet, Thanks so much, sorry I didn’t see it on the gear page. What section is it under. Thx again.
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
August 15th, 2011 at 6:40 pm
hmmm – maybe we did forget it! http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/406885-REG/Denecke_TS_3_TS_3_Time_Code_Slate.html
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@Vincent Laforet, Awesome, thank you 🙂
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As a videographer enthusiast I would like to hear your in-depth opinions about:
1. Canon 60D (already mentioned above)
2. Panasonic GH2
3. Headphones in general (what to look for, what to avoid)
4. Lightmeters (some claim the new SEKONIC L-308DC the absolute must have for a videographer)
5. Choosing the right white balance befor the shoot (not about gear but about the workflow obviously)
Best regards
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Hey, interested in your thoughts on rod support systems, not only specific to DSLR/Epic but ones which will work with a variety of systems now and in the years to come.
Any thoughts Vincent?
Cheers!
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
September 8th, 2011 at 12:21 am
Can you be more specific on WHICH support systems?
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How about camera setting on the 5D mark II ?
Picture style –
Sharpeness –
Contrast –
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
September 20th, 2011 at 3:18 pm
Neutral, sharpness all the way down, contrast and sat down 2
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@Peter,With an Nikon to Eos adapter you can use the old Nikon AIS primes that are cheaper, very sharp, metal housings and in my view are better made than the plastic ones today.
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@Vincent Laforet, Do you use a universal mounting system that holds your rods (15mm) with matte box/FF and that can be mounted directly to say a 5D2 or Epic?… Such as the O’Connor system?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
September 20th, 2011 at 3:15 pm
Yes – I use the Element Technica plate, or the Viewfactor plates / cages.
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@Vincent Laforet, Thanks, I’ll test those settings out.
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Hi Vincent, do you use Graphics Tablets for photoshop or for video editting? I was looking through your gear list and couldn’t find any. Thanks for sharing. Your website has been of great value to me.
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
October 24th, 2011 at 11:32 pm
We do – Wacom tablets all around!
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Vincent, Do you have any idea who makes the “rails” for this battery mount? Thanks,
http://redmodz.com/rear-battery-mount-extension/
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
November 6th, 2011 at 1:40 pm
No sorry – first time I’ve see it…
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Hello Vincent! Given that you have been lucky enough to use the new Canon C300 and that I am completely obsessed with gear I would find it very interesting that you made a video showing your “ultimate rig” with the new camera. I know that the camera isn’t commercialy available yet, I’m just saying that it would be nice whenever you could.
Many thanks in advance,
Pau
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
November 22nd, 2011 at 9:55 pm
As soon as it is – I will. Cheers
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I’m a young filmmaker, and being that I have studied film for a few years, and am looking to start out my filmMAKING career now, your blog posts are very helpful. HOWEVER, while the gear you reccommend is really good, it can get really expensive.
I’ve always been a person who focuses almost completely on narrative, and the overall emotionality of a scene or film, which is why I am finally realizing, that to execute my visions I need good equipment. But I was wondering if there were any reccomendations you had, in terms of getting basic rigs (shoulder mounts, stedicams) that are good, but cheaper than what you’ve shown so far.
Everything just appears to be thousands of dollars on your blog, and as an indie filmmaker, I don’t have that kind of money to throw around.
I would love a response. Thanks
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Request: What hardware are you editing on? Macbook Pro? Mac Pro? iMac?
Btw, your work is awesome.
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
December 12th, 2011 at 12:28 am
Thank you! Mac Pro, MBP 17.
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Love your web page and projects.
Have finished prototype for silent-operating digitally stabilized pan/tilt head for DSLR’s that fits in the operators hand and weighs less than 5 KG.
Pan/tilt/roll are powered by direct-drive samarium cobalt motors that enable stable shots to a 250mm lens in 35mm format.
You can run with it, climb fire escapes, skate, jump in and out of cars and pass it through car windows or shoot over-the-shoulder and walking-talking shots, or do precision moves coming to a dead stop. It can be as stable as a dolly operated on carefully leveled dolly track.
We’re testing the prototype in Venice Ca, and we hope to have it ready to go in January. If you are interested I can update you on this project.
Best,
Peter Jensen
Los Angeles, CA
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
December 26th, 2011 at 3:14 pm
Please do!
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Dear Vincent,
I am looking for a valid instrument to obtain orbiting shots and arced moves with a Canon EOS5 Mark II fully equipped camera (heavier than usual) or a Panasonic AG HPX 171.
Through your experience, may you give me a good hint, please?
With sincere admiration for all you’re doing,
Stefano Bianchi (Italy).
ps. I’m opened to every suggestions from everybody who already tested this kind of equipment. Please feel free to write me at: info@stebianchi.com
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Hey Vincent, thanks for being such a wealth of information!
I’m curious if you’ve had a chance to play around with the Letus MCS Bundles and if so, what your thoughts are…
thanks!
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
January 7th, 2012 at 6:05 am
not yet no – v
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Now that Viewfactor has officially discontinued the Contineo cage and it doesn’t look like their EVF will ever see the light of day… do you have any recommends for replacing those two pieces of kit in your Ultimate Rig?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
January 11th, 2012 at 11:02 pm
OK – need to do some homework. I recommend the Zacuto EVF hands down… and Letus has new cages as part of Shane Hurlbut’s series btw..
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
January 11th, 2012 at 11:13 pm
Just spoke w/ them – the cage is not discontinued. Kindly reach out to them directly. Also – I recommend the EVF. Cheers – v
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@Vincent Laforet, Thanks for the EVF recommend. How weird. I had just reached out to them and they said it was discontinued. I’ll follow up again. Thanks!
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@Vincent Laforet, So Curt from Viewfactor says they have no plans to move forward on the EVF, but that the Contineo cage should be available again in a month or two.
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thanks for paving the way..
i would love to hear about your HD converter/monitor combos you are using, and
also if you have any recommendations for a cost-effective, maybe even portable system for DSLR shooters might be. is there a way to monitor for broadcast thru software?
i do a lot of remote production work and would love to do things like color-correction professionally without dragging a heavy crt places..
thanks in advance.
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
January 30th, 2012 at 3:45 pm
We are working on a major update on this… stay tuned in the upcoming weeks. For now: in short we use mostly Marshall monitors and their HDMI to SDI conversion box now.
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Hi Vincent,
I am looking to upgrade our storage system, and remember a few years back – while you were getting ready for Beijing Olympics you had an image of your office with all your gear spread about.
I recall that you had a rack mounted server in your office, in a sweet roll case / enclosure. I would love to know what you use and if you have your own server for clients to download from directly.
Cheers!
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
March 27th, 2012 at 2:21 pm
Post coming on our backend workflow in a few weeks/months. It’s a whopper of a post! We use the Gizmac case w/ a G-Tech server rack as well as Apple X-Raids here in the office.
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@Vincent Laforet, Thanks for replying and I can hardly wait to see. In your post are you going to mention wether your computers are connected directly (fibre) or network.
All computer shops around our area are only familiar with setting up NAS systems and not direct – I can only imagine that Accessing our images over a NAS would be more painful then a USB connection.
Thanks for your willingness to help others. World needs more people like you.
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
March 29th, 2012 at 5:22 pm
We’re all connected via Fibre – but it’s complicated and expensive and I wonder how relevant to most of the readers of this blog… also we no longer use the XSAN so we’re not quite as versatile as we once were in terms of having multiple towers hitting the same server seemlessly – v
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@Vincent Laforet,
I agree that it may not be relevant for most, however I am grateful for you sharing as much as you have and will in the near future. I feel that there isnt a lot of info on redundant mass storage that isn’t attached Via network. and for people that live in less populated areas its hard to find out, as local stores dont have the knowledge (all the time).
For instance is there an step in between lets just say a G Speed and an Promise V Track?
Thanks for taking the time to answer I am excited to read your part on this in the future.
Take care,
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
March 30th, 2012 at 11:30 am
There are differences sure – its too complicated for me to tackle right here…
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Great site – that you’ve taken such care to document your experience and thoughts on all this gear is amazing! Kudos!
(even the design and layout is clean and crisp)
I was looking for any info you might have on the firmware hacks like Magic Lantern. Do you use it? Since it has different effects on different models it would be good to hear what you think. I found it lacking in in-depth documentation on parts like the Bitrate adjustment.
Do you have any recommended Profiles or stuff which you’ve found works better or worse with this regard? 3d party profiles?
Sound gear? JuicedLink or the like vs Zoom or other systems?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
April 9th, 2012 at 3:23 am
I stay away from hacks in general…not realiable on larger productions. Zoom.
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I can’t thank you enough for this space Vincent! Your work is very inspiring!
I am moving towards a better gear and wish I could wait for the Sony FS700 but I can’t and have a short period of time to put together a package…so, here are my questions:
-You think Sony FS100 will have a price drop after 2012 NAB?
-Would you know if Nanoflash is really the best option as external recorder for this camera?
If you are familiar with this camera, what other accessories would you say is a must while shooting a documentary in + outdoor?
Yes, budge is tight.
Thank you!
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
April 12th, 2012 at 11:43 am
Look at the news from today… all prices are liable to fluctuate now.. we’re going to do a piece on external recorders soon…
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Have you had a chance to dissect the 5D MKIII by any chance?
Just wanted to say that your breakdown of all your personal gear is fantastic.Your My Gear page or pages that you have put together should be a must for anyone considering on what to buy…..especially if it’s Canon gear.
Thanks for all your time and effort in putting this together!
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Vincent-
Is there any chance that you could show how you pack your gear and keep it organized with traveling.
Thanks
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
April 15th, 2012 at 3:24 pm
Sure – at some point – it’s a production every time!
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Maybe you can look into lens baby. It can produce very organic look.
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Interested in seeing how you clean your gear, glass, dust on camera bodies… ect.
Lens pen vs microfiber?
What common mistakes do people make when cleaning gear?
How often to have your sensor cleaned?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
August 5th, 2012 at 2:52 pm
I try to get the camera company technicians to do it actually… but I do carry this brush with me everywhere: http://www.visibledust.com
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
August 5th, 2012 at 2:54 pm
I send my cameras in 1-2 times a year to check and clean. Keep the camera pointed to the ground when you switch lenses if you can – the gravity does a huge amount to help keep sensors clean. NEVER point the camera up towards the sky w/ an open port. As far as lenses I have some Zeiss spray for lenses and cloths… although I must admit a clean, soft T-Shirt is my secret weapon of choice (and I have UV/Clear filters on ALL my still lenses -as I never want to have the front element exposed if I can help it!)
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Hi Vincent. I’d like to reiterate interest in your thoughts about external recorders, particularly now that the Nikon D800 is out and the entry of raw cameras like the Black Magic on the market. It seems like we’re nearing a point where the affordability of the DSLRs relative to video quality is being challenged by pure players like the Black Magic systems. Put another way: it seems more affordable to just go the Black Magic route than to invest in external peripherals for the DSLRs just to get to a higher quality source file. Is that true? Or are we still not there yet?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
August 5th, 2012 at 2:50 pm
Very very good question. I’m trying to test both of those cameras out actually and have my hands on a D800 but haven’t been able to get the Black Magic camera yet although it’s been offered to me… so stay tight.
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what about a DIY spot for equipment/ accessories.
also what if you put a project idea for some of your followers to work at or look into?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
August 20th, 2012 at 3:34 pm
What do you mean about the 2nd part?
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HI Vincent,
You seem to use propic.com service, any thoughts on that?
sincerely yours,
Rami
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
August 20th, 2012 at 3:29 pm
i like it a lot! Happy user
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HI Vincent
I have a cannon eos 7d with a 70 – 200 zoom lens not the greatest, but i was wondering what would you recommend for some lower end film making.. such as tripod, configurations and some lenses.
it would be much appreciated…
Max
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
October 18th, 2012 at 9:33 pm
It’s all up on the gear section.
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Vince,
Would like a god, better, best spec (equipment list) for a high school studio, preferably based on the blackmagic switcher products that will allow me to teach basic production skills
What do you think of the Canon HF G10 for basic cameras fro students to run around with- perhaps as cheap start study cameras?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
October 25th, 2012 at 12:22 am
I unfortunately don’t use those systems enough to feel like an expert in recommending them… I’d rather stick to what I know and use than to speculate. I hope you can respect that.
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Thanks for your great blog Vincent, would be great if you could review the 5D mrk iii. I’m particularly interested in seeing how similar you find this compared to the mrk ii in terms of using the picture profile etc…
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Nirva Reply:
October 26th, 2012 at 8:47 pm
tweaking the picture profile I should say.
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
October 29th, 2012 at 1:10 am
Night and day in terms of low light performance and AF.
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timelapse section in the on the education page
you will be blown away by the traffic
i have been following you since 2007 from your days in the TIMES
i hope i get to meet you one day
you are my Legend
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
October 29th, 2012 at 1:07 am
OK – we’re actually working on something…
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Hey,
would it be possible to do a section on the 5D Mark ii
Perhaps you could included
Best settings for filming
Best Accessories
Any other tips 🙂
Thanks
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
October 30th, 2012 at 8:13 pm
It’s up in the educational resources section – a video on how to set up your 5D MKII
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@Vincent Laforet, Thanks
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Hello Vincent,
I just sold my Sony PD-150 and my nikon D90, and was looking to upgrade to A DSLR that shoots clean video. I know the Canon 5Dm3 is probably the best choice and you have proved that Canon is no joke in the HD-SLR world.
However, Since I have nikon lenses, was wondering about the D800 or D600. I’ve searched online as much as I could; which brought me to your website– Great Frikin’ work by the way!
What are your thoughts about these new Nikons? I see above that you haven’t gotten ahold of the D800 as of August. Have you gotten to use it yet?
I would probably opt for the D600, at $2100, but it’s got quite a few issues such as no full frame HDMI export, and no ablility to change audio or aperture during record! If I have to go with the D800, (it’s too big and too slow for most photographers, myself incl.) I may just choose the 5Dm3… and if you have time, could you direct me to your review of the Magic Lantern firmware as well? Do you use this?
Thanks! -jeff
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
November 28th, 2012 at 12:23 am
Get a nikon to EF lens adapter 😉 And have the best of both worlds… unfortunately I shoot solely Canon and don’t have experience to share re: the nikons.
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Hello Mr. Laforet,
I have two specific requests. I would like to shoot with cine lenses like anyone else however don’t have the $4000 budget for Zeiss CP.2s. After much research, I came upon two possible solutions for someone on a tight budget.
Firstly, I would like to know your thoughts on purchasing ZF.2 (ZE.2) still lenses with a “Cine-Mod” by Matthew Duclos. Supposedly the ZF.2s have the exact same glass/optics as the CP.2s but in a cheaper housing. At roughly $700 for a lens and the extra $250 for the “Cine-Mod” (optimizing it for motion picture cameras) would you recommend it as a viable substitute for the far more expensive Zeiss CP.2s?
Secondly, I have discovered an Asian company that has launched brand new cine lenses at my price point. The Rokinon (or sometimes called Samyang) cine lenses cost only about $400 (they have most lengths excluding the 50mm which is rumored to be in the works). As a cinema lens it is a definite bargain compared to its nearest competitor Zeiss CP.2s ($4000). I would like to know your thoughts on the quality/value of the Rokinon lenses (and maybe if possible: a comparison with the CP.2s).
These are the only two solutions I came across for someone truly desiring cine lenses. If there are any other affordable cine lenses I missed, your input is definitely appreciated!
Thank you!
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
February 18th, 2013 at 7:14 am
I recommend ANYTHNIG from Mr Duclos.. he’s excellent.
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The Fuji X-Pro1 sounds like a great camera. Do you have any experience with mirror-less cameras ?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
March 30th, 2013 at 3:41 pm
I love my Leica M9
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Hi,
What is the best stands for the cineslider? And are they useful on uneven terrain?
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Graeme Reply:
April 30th, 2013 at 12:52 am
@Graeme, I forgot to say thanks.
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
May 2nd, 2013 at 12:19 am
Yes w/ outrigger feet. Depending on how crazy the terrain you may need tripods instead of course!
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Purchasing Technicolor program because of your efforts and I thank you. Requesting a video delivery tweak with your board and especially email notifications. Your videos don’t arrive one-clickable on my smartphone (IPhone) and I must wait to view on home system, which home system use is becoming more and more rare. As your biggest fan, I am merely suggesting that I am not the only visitor who experiences this issue. Regardless, stay at it, I really do hope that I get to meet you someday. Ted
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Hey!
Wow – you blog is a great resource. I work in stills but I often need to record ambient sounds and broadcast quality interviews on location. I’ve invested in the H4 Zoom, but would like to know how to set it up and if I require anymore bits and pieces? As you can see, I am not a sound specialist at all…. just a simple documentary photographer.
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I’ve started working with an organization that purchased video gear prior to purchasing a videographer (me!). 🙂 I’m still trying to organize and keep track of all the gear. I’d love to know how you organize your gear, not in a case or bag, but when it’s stored in your office or home. Sorry if this has already been covered – I’m unable to find it if so. Thank you, kindly!
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Thanks so much for such a comprehensive list & links!! you mentioned you’d rather crop into the 1.4X converter than lose 2 stops light w/ 2x ext ii, has that changed w/ the updated extender iii’s?
Thanks again… You’re the best!
Teresa
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Hey Vincent,
Could you possibly talk about different wireless follow focus options for use on products like the Movi?
Thanks so much!
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
October 19th, 2013 at 12:30 am
Coming soon!
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Awhile ago you had a spreadsheet posted about cost of doing business, “CODB” was the title…I can’t find it anymore…can you re-post?
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Movi is amazing, of course. I would love to have your opinion on the Besteady one. 🙂 2k cheaper. it deserves some attention, don’t u think? a movi vs besteady article?
Cheers
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
November 26th, 2013 at 10:48 pm
Maybe – for now I think the software and quality of the MoVI is pretty darn solid – no chance to play w/ a beSteady yet.
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Hey Vincent, I know your a Canon fan (So am I) but add a GH-3 cause when you hack it it’s the cinema, hope you put it up even though it’s downsides and where’s Canon EOS 70D thanks a lot keep on rocking and filming
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
November 26th, 2013 at 10:47 pm
Just added the 70D! GH3 is awesome – but never got into it. My rule is simple: talk about what I know and use…
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As someone still rocking a DSLR with an APS-C sensor, it would be helpful if you made more clear which lenses you recommend for full-frame, and which for APS-C. Great work! Thanks!
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
November 29th, 2013 at 10:39 pm
If the lens is preceded by EF-S – the “S” stands for APS-C – hope that helps!
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Hi – would to hear your thoughts on the black magic cameras vs. entry line canon hdslrs.
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
April 27th, 2014 at 1:05 am
I’d go w/ a Canon C-Series – say a C100. By the time you accessorize a BMC camera, or HDSLR, you get to that same price point and get less performance overall… you can get a clean signal out of the HDMI out on the C100 as well and not have to deal w/ compression/codec limitations
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Hi Vincent i was just wondering what computers and ect you use. I couldn’t seem to find them in the gear section on your website.
Thanks
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
May 21st, 2014 at 2:06 pm
macs
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Hi Vincent,
Check out my new product at the website and let me know what you think. I am a 30 year veteran DP who came up with an answer to a production problem
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Dear Vincent,
I am the marketing manager at Dinkum Systems and we’d love to get you out a Dinkum Systems ActionPod® and COMPACT™ Lens Shade for review on your gear page. I reviewed your gear page and believe that the Dinkum Systems gear would fill a niche in your gear accessories list, particularly for those shooting in challenging locations where light, compact, and durable equipment is required. Would you be interested in trying out our universal clamping monopod mount and hot shoe mounted lens shade?
If yes, I would be happy to send you out a free sample as long as that does not conflict with your review policy.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Regards,
Jeanne
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Hello,
We recently launched our new photography product on Kickstarter. Here is a link to the 30-day campaign page: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1436033315/dixie-grip-rotating-handheld-or-mounted-hotshoe-gr
Below is a pic/gif for a quick reference. We designed it to replace the common umbrella bracket, ground stand typically included with speed lights, and of course to be handheld. Be sure to check out the entire page, there are videos from a couple of other photographers that tested it, and a video that goes over the functions of the product.
Would you be interested in writing about the product on your website?
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What data recovery app do you recommend for getting .mov files off a CF card that was popped out prematurely?
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Dear Vincent,
I am writing to you to introduce you to our new free film production platform called: IndieBoogie. We have been creating this platform for indie filmmakers to aid in breaking down script into production requirements, help scheduling, and manage all aspects of a small to medium sized film production.
We would love for you to have a look, and possibly even provide us with feedback on the system.
With warm regards,
Daniel Owen van Dommelen
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Dear Sir or Madam,
We specialize in manufacturing carbon fiber for over 10 years and can manufacture products according to your requirement.
Boom poles are our main product. They can be extended to maximum length in few minutes. You just need to pull out and lock it.
Competitive Advantage:
1.Extremely light weight and stiff.
2.High pressure resistance.
3.Strict in-house quality checking, the third party quality checking also available if requested.
4.Fast delivery, short lead time.
6.All products with 1 year warranty.
May I send you a sample?
P.S. We also have other products,including camera tripod, jib camera pole,etc
Best regards,
Frank
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I have canon 5d mkIII and am looking at ways of doing live video broadcasts of sports events and was wondering if you do anything similar and what gear you may use, I am also working with a limited budget
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Lux Gears. New follow focus lens gears that are better designed than anything else on the market. I can get you samples if you like.
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Lux Gears. New follow focus lens gears that are better designed than anything else on the market. I can get you samples if you like.
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how about a sony a7s 2,
gh4, d5, d500, d810
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Would also like an accessories bag page with tripod bags, dop kits, etc. Also do you use anything like goruck’s molle system?
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What are your thoughts about the 5D Mark IV vs. the 5DS now that the IV has been released
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I would be interested to see what Computers, Laptops, Displays, and Strobes you use.
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