Acquiring Camera Before Shooting

Choosing a camera is an important pre-production decision. If you choose something cheap you have more money to spread arround, but the image quality suffers and you have fewer option in the post. If you choose an expensive package you get a stellar image and more option in post, but you have little money for everything else. In picking the camera, you weight the target distribution method, storytelling needs, and budget. For instance, shooting a documentary that will make the festival circuit and public television is fine with a 24p DV camera. If you are planning to do a film out, then choosing a better camera package.

The best way to determine which camera to use if you don’t own one is to rent or borrow one and do tests. Shoot in situations you are likely to encouter, capture it, and view the result. If you plan to shoot with additional accessories such as an anamorphic adapter, a dolly, jib arm, follow focus gear, or any equipment you have never used before, rent it too and do a small test. Ask yourself how the camera is to use. Is it easy to adjust and comfortable to hold? Does it deliver sufficient image quality? You want to know everything you can about the camera you’re going to use because you don’t want to waste time on the set when it could be spent for another take or setup. You also don’t want a surprise if gear doesn’t work as intended. It is better to find out before production begins.

Shooting tests are not only about using the gear but also about the image quality. Capture the material you shot and look at it in your NLE or compositing application. Color-correct it and experiment with effects. If you’re happy with the results, you know picked a good camera. Use this time to learn the camera’s control.

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