Gimbals are the perfect tool for shooting smooth video — whether it be a wedding video, comedy sketch or a feature film. But although there are a lot of great gimbals for mobile devices and expensive cinema cameras, there aren’t many great gimbals in that ever-so-elusive median price range. Enter the Zhiyun Crane 2 — a gimbal that might just be exactly what you’re looking for. Continue reading Zhiyun Crane 2S Gimbal — Pros, Cons, Price & Features (Review)
When shooting a movie, you want to make sure everything looks good, from the focus of the shot, to the lighting of the set. While our naked eye can often do a good job helping us out, exposure tools help us not miss any spots. In-camera tools like zebras and histograms help out cinematographers, but so do false color images. “What is false color” you ask? It’s a tool that also helps you with exposure levels, and one which can be incredibly useful with filming. So let's dive into how to use false color, how they are identified, and how…
Camera Lenses Explained: Vol. 1 (FREE Ebook)A comprehensive and accessible guide for photographers and cinematographers looking to master camera lenses.The Different Camera LensesUnderstanding the types of camera lenses is your first step towards the perfect imageCamera lenses have a massive impact on the overall presentation of the image. From the lighting, composition and depth of field, different camera lenses all bring unique storytelling value to your work. With this guide to the different types of camera lenses, you’ll be able to choose the right lens for the shot every single time.You'll Learn:ContentsAnamorphic vs. SphericalTelephoto LensesPrime vs. ZoomMacro LensesFisheye LensesSplit Diopter LensesWide…
Before you yell, “Action,” you need to make sure the subject in your frame is in the sharpest, cleanest focus possible. This is known as critical focus, and it makes all the difference in having a professional-looking video and an amateur one. You need the right tools on-set to properly calibrate your camera. Right now, you may ask yourself, “What is a focus chart?” But by the end of this post, you’ll understand why you need to acquire one immediately. Continue reading What Is a Focus Chart, How They Work, and Where To Get One
As camera technology evolves, the mirrorless vs DSLR debate is becoming more and more about preference. While DSLR cameras may have been the frontrunner for the last few years, mirrorless cameras have made such incredible advancements that both professionals and beginners alike swear by them. We’ll lay out the key differences between a mirrorless camera vs DSLR, and help you determine the most important question — what’s best for you? Continue reading Mirrorless vs DSLR — Pros and Cons for Photo and Video
Often the most impactful inventions in history have come about as a result of a beautiful accident. In film, especially on set, beautiful accidents happen all of the time. Luckily for us, a particular invention happened nearly half a century ago, early enough to give us some of the best footage we’ve ever seen. The Steadicam came about over trial and error. So what is it? What is a Steadicam shot? Let’s quickly define it, and learn more about the inventor of one of the most revolutionizing pieces of equipment in film history.Continue reading What is a Steadicam Shot &…
TYPES OF LENSESLENS BASICSPRIMEZOOMWIDE ANGLETELEPHOTO Finding the right lens for your camera can vastly improve your images and overall production, but learning what you need to know about video and photo camera lenses can be expensive and time-consuming. Continue reading Camera Lens Mounts Explained: Types of Lens Mounts and Adapters
If you’re a beginner enthusiast videographer, or professional dabbling into new territory, 360 video might be a great new adventure. Capturing immersive 360 degree footage isn’t complicated, but there are a few things to consider. Let’s answer what is 360 video, where does virtual reality come in, and how can you start shooting yours? Let’s jump in. Continue reading What is 360 Video? How to Create An Immersive Experience
The crane shot allows the audience to leave a normal point of view, creating a novel perspective that’s inherently cinematic. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker or intermediate enthusiast, getting comfortable with how to shoot with cranes will only enhance your craft. It’s not complicated and you don’t know need super expensive equipment to do it. So what is a crane shot? And what can you use it for? Let’s jump in.Continue reading What is a Crane Shot? And Why Do the Pros Use Them So Often?
Telephoto lenses are used by photographers from every skill level and in various situations. In other words, have a telephoto lens in your kit is a must. They’re a lifesaver when it comes to shooting distant subjects, but serve quite a few other purposes. In this post, we’ll outline some advantages of going with a telephoto lens, and what to consider when shooting with one. But first, what is a telephoto lens?Continue reading What is a Telephoto Lens? How to Get the Shots You Want
