Hello all! I've got about $1200 to spend on some new gear. I've been comparing and looking at different combinations of possible purchases. Spreadsheets and late nights trying to find how to push that as far as I can. For any who are inclined, I'll list what I'm currently working with and the set I've put together that I like best. Any thoughts on better ways to improve my gear are welcome. What I Have Now Canon T2i 50mm 2.8, 18-55mm Davis and Sanford ProVista 75XB sticks/FM 18 head indiSlider Zoom H4n/Redhead Windscreen Monopod Cowboy Studio Shoulder Rig Definitely scraping by with some of that, but you learn to sweet talk what you've got and make it work. The Zoom with a screen, thrown on a monopod makes a bizarrely acceptable "shotgun" in a pinch. The Cowboy Shoulder Rig would probably be fine, but I'm a big guy and that thing is in no way made for big dudes. It's painful to use. I'm giving it to a friend soon who is buying a camera. What I'm Considering Rode NTG-2 Shotgun Pearstone Shockmount Windscreen Wired Boom Pole JAG35 D|Runner Bundle (shoulder rig / D|Focus / DSLR Baseplate / Rods) I'm really looking to improve my sound. The D|Runner seems like a much better shoulder solution for me. This list also leaves about $150 so I might pick up Magic Bullet Mojo too. Again, I'm open to any suggestions. You can throw out what I'm thinking entirely. My feelings won't be hurt, I just want to make good, informed decisions because I don't get the opportunity to do this too often. Thanks so much! Harlan
I knew I forgot something important. Corporate / Event, interviews to pay the bills. Some narrative shorts and a feature, eventually, as personal projects.
I've been looking at JAG stuff too, have managed handheld with my t2i the last 2years doing events etc. though, maybe you can hold out longer on the rig and focus on lenses and sound
I would say your list looks pretty good. Personally, I would skip Mojo, and save up for better software like Colorista II or Looks instead. Like Gareth said, you might want to look at upgrading your lenses. The kit lens isn't very good, which leaves you just the 50mm. If you're shooting indoor events, a fast prime lens such as the Samyang 35mm f/1.4 would definitely be a worthwhile addition in my opinion.
Thanks, guys! I appreciate the input. I definitely plan to rent some lenses soon to do some comparing. And yeah, I think I'd rather pick up Looks later on. Also going back to check some other handheld type options. I honestly might be just as comfortable just throwing a Z-Finder on and running around. We didn't have shoulder rigs in my college video classes, so I'm kinda used to sticking close to my camera and just trying to be graceful, haha.
