Canon EOS-1D X: The Future King of DSLR

If you haven't heard yet, Canon just put out a press release for the Canon-1D X.  It'll be Canon's flagship camera and the new features are set to crown it the king of DSLRs.  The 1D models are designed primarily for photographers, but this will be the first full frame, full HD DSLR since the MKII.  Moire has been "minimized" and the maximum clip length has been extended to 29 minutes 59 seconds (there's a crazy EU tax law on videos 30 minutes or longer).  There doesn't appear to be any footage released yet, but I'm excited to see what it can do!  Check out the great posts below by Matt Weiss of Dive Photo Guide and Philip Bloom for their thoughts and the full press release.  The Canon-1D X should be available next spring for an estimated $6,800.

http://philipbloom.net/2011/10/18/1dx/

http://www.divephotoguide.com/underwater-photography-scuba-ocean-news/canon-announces-eos-1dx-professional-slr/

-RA

The Panasonic AF100

The Panasonic AF100.  Think of it as an updated HVX that also allows for interchangeable lenses.  Sounds sexy, right?

Priced at around 5k (including a Panasonic Lumix 14-140mm f/4.0-5.8 on B&H to get things started), it's in the same ballpark as the HVX and is a solid choice for new camera buyers contemplating a rig in that price range.  The image quality is comparable to the 5D, but it's built like a traditional prosumer camera if you're not into the ergonomics of DSLRs.

So when debating the AF100 vs DSLRs which should you go for?  If you ask me it comes down to three factors: glass, level of action, and shooting style.  If you've got a DSLR with good glass, you're probably OK to stick with the DSLR.  You've also got the open option to use those lenses you've invested in with an AF100 rental.  The AF100 will blow away DSLRs with kit lenses.  If you're shooting fast-paced action, the AF100 will have less trouble with aliasing.  However, I've seen several mountain bike and skate videos that turned out fine when shot on a DSLR.  For most people the deciding factor will be shooting style.  Both camera systems will record beautiful images and allow for a variety of experimentation.  Take into consideration your own preferences in regards to camera mounting, traveling, weight, and of course - price.  Personally, I still side with DSLRs for ownership, but that's based on my own shooting style.  I need a more versatile system to keep up with my ever-on-the-go lifestyle.  Given the choice between the two for a short narrative, I may have to go with the AF100.  Keep in mind that no camera is the best choice for every situation.

If you want to see a more technical comparison check out Zacuto's 2011 Camera Shootout.  For now, take a look at the video below to get a glimpse of the AF-100 in action.

From The Inside Out - Stevie Smith from SecondBase Films on Vimeo.

-RA

Introducing the GoPro Floaty Backdoor

GoPro recently released a flotation backdoor for the GoPro Hero HD.  Personally, I haven't had any issues with my GoPro coming out of its mounts, but the possibility is always on my mind.  At just $14.99, it's a wise addition to your bag of GoPro accessories.  The Floaty attaches to the backdoor with industrial strength 3M adhesive and includes a spare backdoor.

If you don't have a GoPro yet you're missing out!  It's a great addition to professional kits as well being a fun camera for any water or "extreme" activities.  Here's some footage from a recent family trip...

3 Essential Tools for DIY Filmmakers

I was always the last to jump on board with new "everyday"  technologies.  I'm still young, but I can be an old man when it comes to fitting new doohickies into my life.  I often think back to that Jimmy Buffett line, "yes I am a pirate, 200 years too late."  Can't we just keep life simple with the tried and true?  I'm all for breaking tradition, but damn it's hard to keep up sometimes!  Everytime I turn around there's some new contraption.  It claims to make life easier.  It usually doesn't.  The latest thing to change?  Now I'm the guy closely following trusted companies like Canon and Zacuto; eagerly awaiting their next new toy.

The truth is, I'm working in a field where the tried and true workflow has become antiquated.  Moreso, it's been revealed to be an incredibly more expensive process than it needs to be.  I understand that films cost a lot of money.  The big secret is: they don't have to.  The resources available to indie filmmakers are making it fantastically easier for them to produce their films.  That's good because it leads to more experimentation, which means more creative stories will follow.  It gives a voice to a whole new group of filmmakers that were previously stuck with dead end jobs while trying to find the cash for their dream project.  To Hell with being a suffering artist.  I want to make my films and spend time with my girlfriend on the beach, sipping margaritas.

The film industry is over-saturated with wannabe-rockstar filmmakers at the moment.  It's a tough fight to find honest work.  The good news?  It means there's a surge of interest in film.  Just like paddling out into a heavy surf with huge waves, you need stay focused and dig deep.  One by one those you started with will slip to the side.  Soon enough (well, at some point... eventually... I hope) you'll make it to the lineup and have the eyes of a booming industry looking at you (apologies to surfers for the business metaphor).

But, how do you make it that far?  The latest gadgets still come with a pricetag.  Indie and DIY filmmakers need to wisely choose which tools to invest their money in.  Here are three items that I think are at the top of the list:

1) Smartphone

If you don't already own one, buy one soon.  I've had mine for less than a year and I can't believe I didn't get it sooner.  I'm always on the go.   I think most DIY filmmakers are.  Most of my emailing and project research has to be done remotely.  The internet browser and Gmail app allow me to get my work done during normal business hours.  Goodbye cramming when I get to my home office - hello cooking a fresh dinner with my sweetheart.  The map and GPS features are perfect for finding my way around in new cities too.  Even this website is mostly maintained from my phone.  I'm typing this article on it now.

2) HD capable Canon DSLR

Yes, Canon.  Remember what I said about following trusted companies? Canon is certainly one of them.  Don't waste your time and money buying into a brand that is still playing catch-up.  Canon has helped revolutionize filmmaking and they continue to push the envelope.  Many people advise that it's financially best to just rent camera gear.  That may be true if you're a director, writer, or editor - in that case find a DP whom you can offer a rental rate to.  But, if you're a camera person, the price is right.  Buy one and experiment as much as you can.  Even though the body will be outmoded in a few years, you can still invest in quality lenses that will last a lifetime.  This isn't a piece on DSLRs.  If it was it would be much longer.  Simply put, they're the best cameras for the price, and then some.  Don't believe me?  Watch how they compare to more expensive camera systems in Zacuto's 2011 Great Camera Shootout.  Of course, if you're just beginning, any camera can be a good choice with proper planning.  In this case, I'm assuming most of the readers are at a certain level.

3) Gym, or any good place to workout

Filmmaking has a mental and physical toll.  Finding time to excersize can be hard, but belive me, it's worth it.  It makes you more physically able to endure long hours and heavy equipment loads.  It's also a great way to clear your head from the stress of the filmmaking process.  Think of a workout and shower like a "refresh" button you can hit.  Keep it up and you'll be pushing yourself harder in no time.  Not to mention you'll also look better and feel more confident.  The best part about it: you don't have to pay a thing.  Access to a gym is nice, but this is one of those areas where the tried and true methods will always be relevant.  Situps, pushups, running, swimming - that'll do it.  Expensive training machines aren't necessary. Just ask Rocky.  And, with the time and energy you've saved from your new smartphone and DSLR, you'll have more opportunities to workout too!

-RA

DIY Filmmaker Travel Tips with Mihir Desai

One of the best things about being a DIY filmmaker is the easy travel.  There’s rarely a need to bring cases upon cases of gear with you.  This is especially true if you’re also a DSLR shooter.  Most of what you need, even a tripod, can be carried onto a plane.

Mihir Desai, of Auteur Mark, is an internationally award-winning filmmaker from Mumbai, India.  When it comes to traveling with gear, he says it’s crucial to own a quality backpack.  As a DSLR filmmaker he’s able to fit his camera, the necessary accessories, and a few lenses into one pack.   For audio gear he uses a Zoom H4N.  There’s also the Tascam DR-100 to consider.  Both recorders are compatible with lavalieres and will easily fit into a good camera bag.  He says that a full size tripod will fit in most overhead compartments.  However, certain countries and airlines will require you to check your tripod and fill out a “Fragile” sticker.  This sticker basically releases the airline from being liable for any damage.  Make sure to get a hard case. 

For domestic flights, Mihir advises that you should only check gear if you exceed the airline’s weight and value limits.  Most DIY filmmakers will be under the cutoff in both of those categories.  Some items that aren’t allowed onboard will have to go in your checked luggage.  These items usually consist of batteries, grip tape, a pocketknife, tools, etc.  In case you don’t meet the airline’s requirements, leave some extra room in your checked bag so that you can transfer less expensive equipment to it if need be.  Again, if you’re flying internationally you’ll probably have to check your tripod and slider.

Another international flight concern is the export certificate.  The export certificate is a note that states what equipment you are carrying with you.  It makes going through customs a Hell of a lot easier, ensuring that you aren’t trying to smuggle gear in or out of different locations.  Make sure to write down the serial numbers of your equipment.  If you can’t prove that you had purchased it before your trip, you’ll probably get stuck paying a high duty charge.

So, to recap:

-       Invest in a quality camera backpack that fits all of your gear.

-       Get a hard case for your tripod.

-       Check a small suitcase or duffel bag for your clothes that you can add less expensive gear to if you exceed airline weight limits for carry ons.

-       If you’re traveling internationally be sure to fill out an export certificate.

Mihir also adds to not forget your sunscreen.

Safe and Happy Travels,

-RA

If you enjoyed this article, check out our previous post by Thavary Krouch on filming in Cambodia.

Canon 60D: Shape of Things to Come?

The Canon 60D is an interesting camera.  It has beautiful resolution, and is a strong addition to the Canon line of DSLRs.  It may have a smaller sensor than than the 5D, as well as lower resolution, and less durability, than both the 5D and 7D, but the 60D can do a few tricks that it's older brothers can't.

The most noticeable difference is the flip-out LCD screen.  Photographers may scratch their heads as to it's necessity, but for DSLR filmmakers without the budget, or need, for a shooting rig decked out with an EVF on an articulating arm, it's a welcomed sight. It seems like such a little change, but the biggest DSLR learning curve I had to overcome was always needing to bring myself to eye level with the viewfinder.  Being a taller guy, I'm used to looking down through an angled eyepiece.  The flip-out option on the 60D makes getting into position a lot easier, and definitely more comfortable.

There's also the addition of adjustable audio levels.  The 60D is the first to introduce this feature, and it's a large step in the right direction.  What can we expect to see out of the new versions of the 5D and 7D, rumored to debut summer 2012?  Canon had no new toys to show off at the 2011 NAB.  I trust Canon.  I know that they must have something cooking.  It makes me wonder what we'll see next.  I feel like the 60D, built with less power than the 5D and 7D, is really just a testing ground to get feedback on the shape of things to come.

The video below is uber-cheesey, but it's a great example of what Canon's EOS line of DSLRs are capable of.

Canon PowerShot SX130: The Best Camera Under $200

If you’re looking for a compact camera that takes great pictures, check out the Canon PowerShot SX130 and SX230.  They're certainly not professional-level cameras, but for everyday use, or just a night out on the town, they'll definitely take quality pictures for you to share with friends and family.   No other point-and-shoot camera even comes close to the color and clarity of Canon’s SX line.  The SX130 is slightly larger than a pocket camera, but is still small enough to easily carry in a jacket pocket or a small purse.  It also comes loaded with fun features like: fisheye, color accent, and macro.  The picture below is a great example of the color quality, and latitude between the highlight and shadow areas.

The miniature effect mode creates a soft focus at the top and bottom of the frame.  With high angle shots, it creates the illusion that the subject is smaller than it appears to be.  With smart foreground and background compositions, it also does a great job of mimicking the shallow depth of field achieved by professional DSLR cameras. The result is an image that leads your eyes to the important part of the picture (it also looks just plain cool). Check out the image below.

 

If you have a larger budget, or want something with a pocket-sized design, take a look at the Canon PowerShot SX230.

At around $350, it’s a slimmer version of the SX130 with features that are slightly more enhanced, including a toy camera mode.  Canon also offers a waterproof housing for it, available on B&H for $189.  So, for about $539 (plus tax) you get Canon’s quality images in a pocket-sized camera, AND the ability to shoot underwater.  That’s not a bad deal at all.

Whether you go with SX130, or the SX230, you’re getting a great camera at a great price. 

- RA

(Photographs by Emily Espinosa)