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Home: Video University Forums: Filmmakers & Screenwriters:
newbie looking to do a documentary

 

 


X-Julia
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Jun 5, 2004, 9:57 PM

Post #1 of 2 (725 views)
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newbie looking to do a documentary Can't Post

I am truly new to this area. I am exploring the possibility of doing an ethnographic/documentary film in September/October. I am on a very limited budget. It was proposed that I get a digital camcorder to shoot the footage and then use Avid Express to edit. What I need to know now is can I get away with a Digital 8 camcorder or do I really need to look at Mini DV camcorders? Any thoughts on this?


X-Mark
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Jun 6, 2004, 1:14 AM

Post #2 of 2 (724 views)
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Re: newbie looking to do a documentary Can't Post

It's really not a matter of what tape to use (Digital 8 and MiniDV record similarly, just on different tapes). It IS, however, a matter of what you can afford for a camera. If you're serious about the documentary and have the ability, get a DV camcorder with 3 CCD's (which would restrict you to MiniDV, since there are no 3 CCD Digital 8 camcorders). Panasonic (and JVC I think) are starting to make sub-$1000 camcorders that feature 3 CCD's. Trust me, if you have the means, definitely get a 3-CCD camera.
Also, consider how you're going to record sound. I would seriously NOT recommend using the microphone on the camera. They are horrible, and very susceptible to motor noise, especially the smaller the camera. If you can, look for a camera with a mic input jack.
There's tons more to making a good documentary besides these things, but these should get you started.