| Joined: | Wed Apr 18th, 2012 |
| Location: | United Kingdom |
| Posts: | 4186 |
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JK did ask me to start a movie topic so any more comments would be interesting. Have any of more you used Nikon DSLRs for shooting movie, lets hear what you think?
Used several iterrations of the movie function since it came out. In the early days, focus was woeful....so I stopped even trying it out on the D300.
The D7000 (our current walkaround version) produces good images but I still feel I am fighting focusing....along with its ergonomics.
The weight, shape and balance requirements of a DSLR do not lend themselves to holding away from the eye....especially for 5-10 sec sequences over extended periods. It can only be used on a tripod or maybe some expensive steady cam contraption. That, at the outset, is a limitation.
My other critique is the use of the Live view LCD as the viewing screen.
I was filming a beach scene last week. White pebbles in sunlight behind me ....I couldnt even see the green focus square! Yes I know I can add on some 'aids'....but there's more...
The view screen being in line with the lens means low angle horizontal shots get you down on your knees. (not nice on a wet shingle beach)
Maybe its because I have work related neck damage but holding a camera at eye level and viewing distance, or even bending down and tilting my head back when mounted on a tripod is uncomfortable for prolonged periods. The only way I can look through the LCD is by getting down below it and looking slightly upwards.
In fairness this isnt just for filming, DSLRs are also a pain in the neck when shooting low and horizontal ....even in the studio! Far better is an adjustable viewfinder.
I am afraid no matter how good the image quality, the experience of filming isnt comfortable for me.
I was once asked by an audience member (I was guest panellist on a wildlife programme that Anglia TV did some years ago) "What is the most important piece of equipment for a wildlife cameraman?"
I replied "a cushion".
After the laughter died down I made the point that if you arent as 'comfortable as possible' when filming (and waiting to film), no matter how good your equipment is, it shows in your technique.
Well that is my belief...and its gotten more relevant the older I get.
So the DSLR film feature will always be relegated to an afterthought for me.
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Eric