DSLR Video (Beginner)
Out of context: Reply #14
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- xcreonx0
You wouldn't want a follow focus if you're on a steadicam as you don't want to touch the camera/sled past the gimbal at all. Your hands need to be in a certain position to operate it effectively without knocking it around.
What you would need is a wireless focus system like a Bartech unit and have your AC operate the remote. I use one on my Red Epic/Steadicam Zephyr and it's brilliant. You set your marks using a measuring tape, the AC turns the dial and the lens motor snaps right where you need it.
The issue is, they are multiple times more expensive than your camera, so that's something you need to decide.
The other option is to use a relatively wide lens (which you should use on a steadicam anyways) stopped down enough so you have decent depth of field (get a DoF calculator like PCam for iPhone) and stay within that distance range of your subject. It's tricky but can be learned quickly if you practice.
As far as using a DSLR for video in general, Im not impressed with any of them. The codecs/compressions are all terrible. The frame rates above 24fps are limited and the wobbly rolling shutter effect is atrocious!
But, admittedly, some great stuff has been shot using them so learn the limitations and don't expect miracles with things like slow motion, green screening or color grading.