In Depth Look: Live Production Using 7 REDs

Here’s an inside look at how we used the RED cameras for a live production that included live switching! The production was for a live taping of a Dave Ramsey product due out in August so we cannot show clips from that production but we can show some clips taken behind the scenes.

A little preface before I go on -
During the filming I said a few times we used Angenieux “AND” Optimo lenses. I know that Optimo is made by Angenieux but I used this conjunction between the two names to signify we were using the “older” Angenieux glass as well as the “newer” Optimo lenses. Both series have their own focal lengths and specifications so this is why I used both names as if they were two different manufacturers. So I just wanted to preface that before I got comments.

Also, as I was going through the different lenses we were using I totally glossed over our wide stationary camera B1. At the last moment we ended up using a Cooke 18-100 on that one as well it was the only MX in the line up so it was our odd ball cousin in the family for the shoot. So, if you were doing your math, that is why you may have come up one short on the lens section.

Ok, now, this video was put together to give some details about our production, some obstacles we faced in planning and how we overcame those issues. Many may say using RED cameras is not the best choice for live productions but I created this video to say for us, it was! It’s totally possible and doable. So this video is for any of you who are thinking of using REDs in your live production.

I personally want to thank Joel Hood and Preston Phillips for helping out with all the BTS video shooting, couldn’t have done it without them pitching in.

Thanks to the entire Dave Ramsey production crew for bringing their skills and expertise. The two weeks proved to be a memorable one! As well as thanks to AC Inc. Nashville, DR&A and SmallHD!

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DSLR Cameras and Documentary Filmmaking

Pick up part 2 here: http://vimeo.com/32271984

Can you use DSLR cameras for documentary films? What are the pluses and minuses? How can you best set up your rig for shooting documentary style work?

I created this video to tackle those types of questions. Please let me know if you have any questions about anything covered in the video as well as leave comments about your experience using DSLR cameras for a documentary project.

Some info covered in the video:

“Reparando” http://www.reparandomovie.com/

Mosaic Engineering: http://www.mosaicengineering.com/products/vaf-5d2.html

Missed part 1? Check it out here: http://vimeo.com/32271529

Can you use DSLR cameras for documentary films? What are the pluses and minuses? How can you best set up your rig for shooting documentary style work?

I created this video to tackle those types of questions. Please let me know if you have any questions about anything covered in the video as well as leave comments about your experience using DSLR cameras for a documentary project.

Some info covered in the video:
“Reparando” http://reparandomovie.com/
Cameras used: Canon 5D MkII
Lenses Used: All Canon glass – 24-70L 2.8, 70-200L 2.8, 50L 1.2, 135L 2.0, 200L 2.8
Support: Manfrotto CF 535 Sticks, 501HDV Head, Glidecam 4000 sled
Carrying Support: Lowepro CompuTrekker: http://products.lowepro.com/product/Rolling-CompuTrekker-Plus-AW,2023,17.htm and http://products.lowepro.com/product/CompuTrekker-Plus-AW,1925,16.htm
Apps: Simple DOF, Sun Seeker, Cinemek Storyboard, KataData, Cine ViewFinder

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SmallHD DP4 Monitor EVF First Impressions

First, please excuse the “uh’s” and moments of rambling. I had to shoot this in the very early am because of my schedule this week so I wasn’t really on my A game.

Second, this isn’t really a tutorial but more of my initial impressions of using the monitor for the first time. I want to thank Chris and Reed out at SmallHD for shipping the unit out for me to try it out on my shoot. It was definitelya pleasure to use.

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LED Lighting for Production

I’ve been using LED lights for certain types of production and get questions from time to time. So I thought this would make a great topic for a video tutorial. There’s much to talk about so it’s divided into 3 parts. Would like to hear feedback from other users out there and let me know your thoughts.

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Building Your Own Portable Data Acquisition Center (PDAC)

Here I talk about how to build your own PDAC (Portable Digital Acquisition Center). For anyone needing to aquire or dump digital footage in the field, this is one solution that has served me well.

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Technicolor-Superflat Color Profile Comparison

Here is a quick comparison video showing the new Technicolor Cinestyle color profile for the Canon 5D MkII and the popular Superflat color profile.

One thing I noticed right away, even in camera, was the lack of the orange/amber hue I’ve noticed in the Superflat profile was not present in the Technicolor profile. To me, this gave a more true color balance and made applying the grading much easier. One problem I’ve had with the Superflat was getting that yellowish/amber hue out of skin tones. So the release of the Technicolor couldn’t have come at a better time.

I used just my 5D MkII with a standard Canon 50 f1.4 lens and walked around Financial Peace Plaza which is home to the Dave Ramsey show (you’ll notice him in the background in a sample).

I’m really pleased with the wide scope of detail I capture with this profile setting from Technicolor and plan on using it exclusively when I shoot with my 5D MkII as I found this to be the best setting for capture.

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Mobile Update: BTS Camera Setup

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