Question by Sean: Which kind of video camera should I use for my indie film?
I’m an independent filmmaker planning my first feature film and want to stick to a strict total budget of $ 10,000. I don’t want to spend a lot of money on a camera. Before you start pointing out inexpensive HD camcorders, let me tell you the artistic angle I’m going for in my film.
I am considering getting a professional VHS/S-VHS camcorder (you know, the reporter-style, rest-on-your-shoulder kind from ’80s-’90s), because my lead actor is suppose to be fearful of the presence of an entity that may distort digital video. The lead has also recently lost his job, so he got the camera on a budget. I thought this would be a nice touch to the artistic value of my film to have an older camera, rather than something new and advanced (see ‘Paranormal Activity’).
What do you think? I know the quality of VHS is poor compared to digital or HD, but I could probably have the footage cleaned up in post-production. Do you think it’s worth the artistic value of the story to go with an older model? Or should I just get a good digital/HD camcorder instead?
Any suggestions or comments are welcome.
Thanks!
Best answer:
Answer by Stephanie
well i would reccomend the red one because thats what i have but it’s quite a bit over 10,000. i’m sure you’ve heard of it- it’s incredible. movies like the blind side were shot with it and even 3d movies!
ever heard of the movie from within? it was surprisingly good i didn’t even know it was an indie film. it was shot with the xl h1s http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&fcategoryid=175&modelid=17035
it’s an incredible camera i’ve had the privilege of handling the camera myself. it’s very user friendly and has exceptional low light low noise.
also if you wanted to wait until june, canon is due to release two amazing new camcorders
xf 305 and xf 300
http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&fcategoryid=175&modelid=20322
http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&fcategoryid=175&modelid=20321
both use new technology much like the red one camera. (records to flash card rather than film)
good luck!
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