Quote Originally Posted by maxpower View Post
I know it might be a year or so away, but I am starting to wonder about what camera equipment I will need to create videos. I know I will need a camcorder but what kind do I really need? Should I get the most expensive or 2 of the cheaper ones, or just 1 medium priced one will work good. I also know I will need lights but how many what type? Are these about the only things I need? I was thinking about maybe using screen caps for some pics cuzz I am going to have to do it all myself. I was also thinking about getting most of what I need from Ebay unless anyone knows a better place.
Maxpower,
Since you mention that you are about a year away, I would suggest reading all I could about videography. A good source for camera reviews, tips, lighting reviews, etc. is Videgorapher Magazine.

When it comes closer to the date of actual purchase I would suggest checking out closeouts. I would strongly recommend against buying used video equipment as you never know how it was treated.

Believe it or not, lighting is more important to the final outcome than the camera. Also, to get the best image, you should ALWAYS turn OFF image stabilazation, etc. So it doesn't matter if the camera has that or not. Invest in a fluid tripod ($300+) or a steadycam rather than rely on camera image stablization. A great steadycam will cost anywhere from $500+, but you can build one yourself for about $20.

http://www.cs.cmu.edu/~johnny/steadycam/

I have a BA in Television Production and am close to my MFA in Cinema. I would be happy to answer any questions you might have. Just email or private me.

- Michael

PS. As far as style goes...be carefull. I tried to be artistic in some of my earlier works...it did not go over well. Now I just shoot down and dirty.

Sometimes we use our $3000 cameras, steadycams, Chimera Lightbanks, etc. and sometimes we use our $150 camera, no tripod, and a construction lightset from Home Depot to give it that amateur look that is popular now.