I went to a meeting yesterday with a production company I’m working with. It was about a 40 minute drive. Having been in this business for so many years I’m always curious of how to do things different or more efficient.

Typically if it was for a production, I’m billing a client mileage and a travel rate between $150-250 depending on the distance.

With it being a meeting, I think about other 9-5’s, of people who are doing 1+ hour long commutes and not being compensated for it, but at the same time I’m thinking this is my time. This is anyone’s time - you are in the job when you leave the house.

I'm trying to mount my own ball head onto a C stand/light stand that comes with a 1/4 20" stud/spigot.

Do I actually need one of these ball head adapters with a flat base before I do it? Is there any actual benefit or weight distribution or something?

Assuming all the weight limits of the stands and ball head are rated well above what I'm going to put on it.

https://preview.redd.it/2wmo2njq33he1.jpg?width=1039&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a28af648892683b4235e3f5fbc9de8cb7bcbba48

Hey everyone,

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I am currently in pre-production for a full feature documentary (my first) using a a Sony FX3 and Sony A7S II, both with Atomos Ninja V recorders. I'm shooting in 4k 23.978fps and S-LOG3.

Hard drive space isn't the prime concern here for me but ideally I'd not like to go beyond 20-25 interviews and need hundreds of TB's in drives.

Ultimately I'd like to show the feature in theatres and seek distribution so my question is this:

Does anyone with tangible experience know what the best choice would be between ProResHQ vs. ProRes422?

Is the difference great enough in any appreciable way where I'd regret NOT using ProResHQ?

I've never shown anything on a large theatre screen and have some mild concerns about visual quality and post colour workflow not being up to par given my goal of theatre/distro.

I'm super close to beginning interviews but this decision ultimately is an important one and I don't wanna make a mistake in something this crucial!

All feedback is welcomed!

Thank you in advance!

I have a shogun 7, hook up with 2 cams.

I am only recording program.

usually I am shooting a 4-5 hours event which I am switching between the 2 cameras.

Currently, a recent event. it records into 8-10 parts. each range from 10 mins to 30 mins.

How do I fix it? My shogun is the latest version as well.

Howdy all

I'm filming some golf content currently where all audio comes from 4 lav mics. This is causing a few very annoying phase issues:

1. Where the individual taking the shot is closer to the shot, therefore causing a delay in the sound reaching the remaining 3 mics.

2. A situation where one golfer is talking, perhaps loudly, and another golfer's mic is picking them up. Again the distance between the mics are enough to cause a phase issue.

Each golfer will react verbally to a shot taken be another golfer, therefore meaning all mics theoretically need to be active almost all of the time. I could attempt to cut around this but as the only audio is coming from these lav mics the ambient background noise of the course would constantly be changing levels, which I do not want.

Does anyone have any suggestions on how best to tackle this?

For reference, I am using Tascam DR-10L's with the pre-equiped lav mic for recording purposes.

Perhaps the answer is as simple and upgrading these mics to something more Omni-directional? Any recommendations if that is the case?

All help is much appreciated!

I'm a rank amateur so please excuse ignorance but this is something I don't understand:

When people take 16:9 footage and put black bars on top, presumably to "fake" the look of an anamorphic lens.

Am I just not understanding something? This isn't adding width, right? It's just reducing height.

I've just watched a YouTube vid of a wedding photographer do exactly this, and I can't imagine any client in this field would want to lose a massive amount of their footage in this way.

Hi folks! I'm sadly not a videographer (just a "jack of all trades" nonprofit communications person) hoping for some guidance on optimal settings or lenses for some new Sony ZV E10 II cameras I've upgraded to for a video podcast.

Background:

We run a rather simple video podcast. We currently have a two-camera shoot with the below equipment. These two cameras aren’t ideal (especially the Canon not being able to record more than ~15 mins due to memory), but they do the trick and look relatively decent.

• Wide shot: Canon EOS T7
• Lens: EF18-55mm
• Tight shot: Google Pixel 8 Pro
• Camera distance from subjects: ~10 ft
• Lighting: Godox SL60IID
• Link to a past episode
• Attached is a pic of the room as well

The upgrade: 

We recently bought two new Sony ZV E10 II cameras to replace both of our cameras.

• Lens: Both came with the standard 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 lenses.

The problem:

We did some crude out-of-the-box testing. It seems up close “vlogging” type shots look somewhat crisp with the stock lens, but a wide shot (which would be our main) is notably grainy.

• Test shot: The attached has a crude screenshot from our quick out-of-the-box test.
• Specs: Auto Focus; white balance, exposure, etc all set to auto as well (which I know isn't ideal).

My question: 

I'm hoping for any guidance/recommendations on camera settings to start with or more optimal camera lenses, etc, that might help our shot for this purpose. Anything helps, as the technicality of cameras has been a bit overwhelming.

• I scoured this channel and saw it may be because I need to shoot in 4k, but open to other recs on settings or anything else that may help.

Any guidance appreciated. Thanks!

Me and my friend have been thinking about starting a video podcast, I'm looking for a camera that can record at 1080p (If possible). It doesn't need good sound quality because I plan on using microphones, so the camera would need to have a microphone jack (or something I can plug a microphone into). Any recommendations?

I'm looking for sub $200 hair light. Right now I'm kinda leaning towards the Godox FH50Bi panel. Is a 1'x1' panel sufficient for a for a sit down interview hair light? Or would I be better served by getting a tube? If it's the latter, please suggest a model.

I’ve always wanted to get into videography/:cinematography, so I’m just going to jump in and learn by doing. I have a Canon EOS R10 and a DJI RS 3 Mini. I’m planning to shoot a short documentary about myself, partly as practice, partly as marketing for my cleaning business.

My idea is to capture quick clips: waking up, prepping my gear, heading to a cleaning job, and then actually cleaning. I’d also like to film a short interview..maybe just 2–3 questions about why my business stands out. Another option is to do something more “30 for 30” style, featuring a few past clients sharing why they think I’m the best in town. Or a mix of the two routes.

I’d love any feedback on this idea/shots. Also, do you have any tips on interviewing, lighting, audio, or any extra gear I might need? Right now, I’m only working with my camera and gimbal. That enough for now?

Thanks in advance!

I'm mainly an editor, but one of my clients wants me to travel with him for a couple of weeks to help film content. I'm comfortable using a camera, but it's definitely not my primary skill which he's aware of but still asked if I would do it.

He'll provide all the equipment we'll need, so I don't have to bring my own gear. A lot of details are still up in the air, but I know l'll need a solid contract with clear boundaries and expectations.

If you're a videographer or someone with experience in travel video production, what would you charge for a gig like this? Any advice on contracts, rates, or what to include in my agreement?

Thanks in advance!

My case is a bit different, i am filming in crowded areas so i will be censoring a lot of faces and also doing some youtube stuff with b roll stock videos etc. , because i am not that long in this niche, i mainly used capcut and like 3-4 ai tools (dont even remember their names), by now i should be paying like 50-70 bucks monthly for all of them.

Hello everyone!

I run a hockey development company and media is becoming a really big part of our operations. We currently host a 3 on 3 league with divisions from 8 years old all the way up to pro players. We also host skills sessions for this same skill range of players. I would like to upgrade the videography and photography side of our business. my goal is to film games, do player interviews, and provide action shots / highlight videos. I am looking for advice on what equipment I should purchase to get set up to film these types of things. My budget is $2000-$5000 CAD. Thanks!

Hey everyone,

I recently recorded my first YouTube tutorial video on how to fly FPV drones. Even if this content does not interest you (which is probably 99% of this sub lol), I would greatly appreciate any feedback on lighting, audio, composition, use of graphics, etc.

How To Fly FPV Drones in 2025 | Five Tips for Beginners

This was my first time stepping in front of the camera on my YouTube channel as my channel is currently travel videos from around the world.

I had a ton of fun putting this together, but it was also a ton of work. Between recording, editing, and creating a thumbnail that took way longer than it should have, I spent at least 30 hours on this.

Was it worth it? Only time will tell, but in the meantime, any tips or recommendations for improvement would be awesome as I want to create more tutorial videos going forward.

Thanks for taking the time to read and comment!

We are looking for advice on improving our event recording's video quality.

This is our gear:

Close-up angle: Sony ZV-E10 with a Tamron 18-300mm F/3.5-6.3 lense. This lens was purchased mostly for a vacation to Costa Rica (took amazing wildlife pictures), but I know is not the ideal lens for video.

Back angle: Samsung Galaxy S20, we'll eventually upgrade this

Microphones: Hollyland Lark C1 Lavalier Microphone

I'm not able to shoot my videos in H.264 format in my iPhone 16 Pro anymore. I've tried to switch the formats multiple times from High Efficiency to Most Compatible from the camera settings but still nothing works. It only shoots in HEVC format. Tried lowering the FPS and Resolution too but no use. Earlier I was able to shoot in H.264 just by lowering the frame rate but now it's not working I don't know why. PLEASE HELP!!

This is just a part of a short film I’m making, wanted to know thoughts on this montage and what you would change/get rid of/ add!

What's up everyone I'm trying to find the shortest monitor mount available for my camera rig. I currently have the Atomos one but not liking how far it sticks out. It measures at 50mm in height. Throw me any suggestions to check out please & thank you

Maybe it’s just my own curiosity—since I’ve clicked "learn more," engaged with ads, and gone down those rabbit holes—but my Facebook and Instagram feeds are flooded with video agency ads promising the ultimate solution to all my money problems.

The funny thing? They all say the same thing. They won’t tell you their price without a “quick sales call,” and even then, it’s never with the person in the ad—it’s always a “lead assistant.”

So my question is: If you’re not running ads, selling full-package services, and offering the “complete solution” to clients, are you doomed in this business?

I’ve been working in video production for nearly a decade (come May 2015), and honestly, I thought I’d be further along. In film school, they told us, “Don’t get into this business for the money.” But I’m older now, with more responsibilities, and let’s be real—the money doesn’t go as far as it used to.

I’ve built what I’d call a “full-time job” in this industry—event work, 1099 gigs for national agencies, quarterly shoots for a few companies, and everything in between. I’m always willing to invest in improving my craft—pre-production, post-production, storytelling, camera work, business knowledge (contracts, taxes, proposals).

But I’ve never bought into the whole “mastermind” or high-ticket “coaching” thing where guys talk about their big retainer wins—"10K a month! First week since joining!" The ads for these programs are so low quality—just some dude pacing around town, making vague promises with zero creative proof.

Has anyone actually gone that route and seen real success?

In 2025, I want to be better. I want to be successful. I’m looking for real, practical advice.

I have a set of Smallrig step-up rings from buying a matte box a while back, and I want to buy a VND with a 95mm thread and i need to buy 1 more step up ring to make the setup complete. I'm worried that with the step-up rings I have currently are too THICK and would cause vignetting.

For example, if I used my 13mm Viltrox, I think there would be, to some degree, vignetting since the focal length is so dang wide. Does the thickness of step up rings matter to some extent? If so, then i'll get a cheap stack of step-up rings from amazon and call it a day.

So I took the plunge and bought an FX3.

For a starter, it is utterly astounding. I still highly rate the mobile app I was using for raw video before, but the FX3 is something else for low light. No qualms on the footage.

But the edit I posted last time was deliberately slow and boring to see if anyone would pick up the fact it was filmed on a phone, but as a result most of the feedback was on the crap edit.

So, just wondering what people think of this new edit.

A tricky one - club isn't the best in the world (I feel bad saying that as the guys who run it are lovely) and it was a pretty boring place to shoot with a ropey looking crowd, but on the plus side it was very dark with a minimal/pretty dated lighting rig and limited vantage points, so the challenge was great. We can't always be shooting in Ushuaia Ibiza or the Steel Yard arena.

I did have my gimbal with me but honestly didn't even bother getting it out. Welcome to suggestions that I should have done.

This one is probably a little too fast paced but I'm finding a balance.

All feedback welcome - if it's just "you're an idiot and shouldn't be holding a camera" that's fine, but not very helpful! Pointers, tips, suggestions are much appreciated,

Link here -

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dGZGpTzgyWo

Hey everybody! I was just wondering, realistically what you think the editor charged for this video?

https://youtu.be/XfAlRgnx12E?si=fB1j5LHwxjxCWZQZ

Need some advice. I’m looking to get into lav audio recording, personally I don’t have $1k to drop on 4 recorders, 4 lavs, and a TC box since I’m saving for my own wedding. However, from last year I got the rode wireless pro. I could get another rode wireless go and their TRS splitter so I can Mic 4 people up for audio. Unless someone has a better idea because I’m researching and struggling to find a good solution that does not break the bank. I like the idea in slowly investing in good gear however, I might have 3 more shoots this year that are 4-6 people so I don’t have a clear direction.

Edit: currently I use one camera. I’m looking at renting additional if needed. Also I’m looking at purchasing additional cameras in the future.

TYIA

I have saved up some money to get film making equipment to get to the next level.

Should I get litemons la300r with softbox

Or

85mm or 16mm lens from viltrox both f1.8

If I get a lens I am planning on getting a slider . If I get a litemons la300r I'll get an lc500r or a panel light like lp600 bi or r i already have a reflector so use all 3 for a 3 point lighting setup.

( Currently whenever I required lights I used to rent the amaran 300c litemons is cheaper but less colour accurate for portfolio work and socials which is most of what I do it's enough and lenses as well i rent it from the rental so any of what I get I'll write off in 5 years with my current client base and monthly billables , I'll consider it worth it in 2 years if I buy it instead of renting it if i consider personal projects in the loop as well )

I am a freelance videographer and photographer. My plans for this year is to make personal projects hopefully a couple of shortfilms and mockup ads . I have a sony a6700 a 24mm f1.8 40 mm f2.5 ( hoping to upgrade to full frame when I outgrow my apsc camera hence full frame lenses ) I shoot advertisements for influencers and bts and still photography for songs .

Which will be best for my goals I am hoping to get into the big leagues documentaries or ads or even film projects as a.c ( long term )

Start a youtube channel discussing films ( short term ) { I know the perfect gear setup is not a requirement start with what I have which in itself is plenty , I will so }

Or should I say screw it get neither ,my computer will be due for an upgrade next year so save for that.