Shooting great video requires a handful of tools. Following a description of what is in my camera bag, here is a listing of the tools that I use to shoot video.

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This is actually one of my most favorite tripods (full disclosure: I have maybe four or five at present). This monopod is easy to pack away on a trip (it has accompanied me to three continents so far). I use it to stabilize shots, but also use it as a mini-crane by shooting live video and then elevating the camera.

One thing that I attempt to do is stay within the Manfrotto family. Using the quick release plates allows me to change from head to tripod, to monopod quickly.

Igus DryLin W slider:

{gallery}stories/graphics,single=igus_slider.jpg,scaption=Monopod,single_gallery=0,salign=right,ratio_image=1{/gallery}This is my favorite, favorite, favorite piece of equipment for shooting video. Really. It is actually a Do It Yourself (DIY) project, but it has saved me a bunch of bucks over store bought items. With a little drilling, tap and die, a couple of bolts, and cheap feet, then I have a 2 foot unit that can either be used as a stand-alone unit, or attached to a tripod. On top of a tripod you can shoot any angle: inclined, or horizontal takes.

This is basically a mini-dolly, which allows for slow movement of the camera on a stable platform. Although I have never owned another unit, I find this one durable and portable. Those are two of my greatest requirements.

There are a few websites that show the same unit being outfitted with a motorized sled, which is helpful for time-lapse shots. That is outside my needs at present.

I have also put a Manfrotto fluid video head on top of the igus slider. That is bolted into place via a 3/8" course-threaded bolt - the standard of video heads.

Mikestand

A standard boom mikestand is used to attach the Zoom H4N and position near the talent when recording. That gives me a close audio signal and does not necessarily require a wired mike. The Zoom H4N has a 1/4" threaded screw hole for direct attachment to the mike stand.

Timer:

I recently picked up an ultra-cheap timer. Attached to the camera, I can schedule the series of shots I desire, thereby producing time lapse shots. I don't get to shoot many of those - the time required is generally not available to my schedule.


Part 1

Part 3