DV Cam Needed

[vermilion]

I'm looking for a DV cam that I can record good quality video in a low light setting, like a club. I'm not sure if a normal DV cam is what I need, but with a really bright light, or what. I'm kinda new at this so any input at all will be welcome.

[edDV]

Budget?

Otherwise Sony VX-2100 at consumer level
Sort of the standard for club recording. Handles low light and bright highlights (with luminance knee curve).

PS: If you also want to take a low Z XLR tap off the house mixer you will also need an interface box like the Beachtek.

http://www.beachtek.com/dxa2s.html
for VX2100 http://www.beachtek.com/dxa4.html



If you have control of the house mixer, you can get by with a couple of matching transformers like the Shure A95 (about $20 each + cables).
http://www.coutant.org/matching/5.html

[MJA]

you need to look into the proline .budget dv will not do the job . most of them sux in low light

http://www.camcorderinfo.com/d/Reviews&level_b=Pro%20Camcorder.htm

[vermilion]

PS: If you also want to take a low Z XLR tap off the house mixer you will also need an interface box like the Beachtek.

If you have control of the house mixer, you can get by with a couple of matching transformers like the Shure A95 (about $20 each + cables).

Take is easy man, I'm kinda noob, but I am more then willing to learn. What is a house mixer? And why would I need a interface box?

[edDV]

PS: If you also want to take a low Z XLR tap off the house mixer you will also need an interface box like the Beachtek.

If you have control of the house mixer, you can get by with a couple of matching transformers like the Shure A95 (about $20 each + cables).

Take is easy man, I'm kinda noob, but I am more then willing to learn. What is a house mixer? And why would I need a interface box?

To record the audio in high quality. Camcorder mic sucks by comparison.

House mixer is the audio board where all the performer mics are mixed to house loudspeakers. You want a feed that is flat (i.e. not the house speaker equalization*).

Typical club mixer Mackie 1604



* a more advanced trebble, bass

[edDV]

PS: Maybe you should better describe "club" and the types of shots you want. I'm assuming a typical performance from a stage that is separately lighted. A "rave" might need a different strategy

A "club" might be defined as a dark space where light is added for purpose or legal minimal requirement. None of this is good for video. Video specific lights are considered intrusive in such an environment.

[vermilion]

My total budget is $1000, could this be done with that budget? What I'm trying to do is, record a club event from a stage inside the club. I'm pretty much trying to record the crowd.

[edDV]

My total budget is $1000, could this be done with that budget? What I'm trying to do is, record a club event from a stage inside the club. I'm pretty much trying to record the crowd.

The crowd is in lowest light. Best way to spend $1000 for one event is to hire somebody with the $30,000up gear who already knows how to use it. You will need to direct them and listen to their recommendations.

A key issue will be use of camcorder lights. The house will need to agree.

Video usage waivers will need to be included in the ticket contract (lawyer fees required). Otherwise anyone captured in the video can sue you if you use it.

Most event videographers will avoid shooting "civilians" (those not under contract) out of fear of being sued.

The dancers you see on Austin City Limits? Yes they had implied consent in the contract when accepting the free tickets.

[vermilion]

$30,000up gear WOW. Now that you put it that way, it would probably be best if I got someone to come out a flim it for me. Thanks for all your input. You really have saved me a lot of time and money.

[edDV]

$30,000up gear WOW. Now that you put it that way, it would probably be best if I got someone to come out a flim it for me. Thanks for all your input. You really have saved me a lot of time and money.

Try to find someone experieced with low light event recording. Better if they have produced broadcast acceptable quality before. Most of the local vendors you find are doing weddings. These are typically staged events with more lighting control. If you operate their way with them in control, you will get good results.

If you are just showing up somewhere and expect good results you need experienced low light street savvy producers with good gear.

You will also need a savvy legal tech to obtain releases from anyone featured in your video. If it is a public event you may have more wiggle room. If a private event, anyone can sue you. Consult a lawyer. If the video team is good, they will be asking these questions and expect indemnification from you.