http://www.hv20.com/blog.php?b=86

I have an HV20 myself, and just received a 7518 tripod from B&H.

Seems really smooth, but I can’t get the tripod to keep from tipping over when I pan or tilt… are there any tricks to this that I’m just not getting? Is there any way to lessen the resistance? The large lever on the head only seems to lock it into place…

The Bescor Flash Bracket is on the opposite site of the camera from the LCD, so there is no problem with it at all. No blockage.

-Mat N

Well I guess we’ll have to agree to disagree on lenses on lenses ; )

Anyways, did you have a chance to read Dan Brockett’s fine article on microphones? I’m thinking about getting the Audio Technica AT875R, check out the samples… what do you think? BTW, what are you monitoring with? I use the Sennheiser HD280 Pros.

On post, I cut with FinalCut Pro and use Peak and Audacity for audio fixes… and you sir?

Looking forward to seeing those clips you’ll be putting up by the end of the week!

Cheers,
-Shaun

I’m not sure I completely agree with your “lenses on lenses is just plain wrong” thought. It’s all about being able to get the effects you want or need on screen. Being able to control a viewer’s eye with the use of focus is very important and a 35mm adapter allows a filmmaker to have that control. Should you use one for every shot? Definitely not.

It is no different than making use of a wide angle adapter, filters or any other trick or tool out there.

In regards to upgrading my sound: I’m actually very happy with the Azden SGM-1x mic. I’ve used it on a number of shoots and seen it used on tons of indie films. It’s very reliable and does a great job. That being said, as with any other piece of equipment I’ve got, I’d love to upgrade to a high end $1000+ pro mic — just like I’d love to upgrade to a $150,000 35mm camera with a set of Zeiss prime lenses.

Thanks again for commenting. It’s great to have another filmmaker checking out the website!! Post any time!

Mat N

I wish you the best of luck with the feature and look forward to checking it out here.

Are you sure about using 35mm adaptors? Just my ten cents, but I’d be inclined to spend the money on upgrading your audio set up. That Azden is a reasonable mic but it hardly matches the quality of your HV20. Sticking lenses onto lenses is just plain wrong, it causes vignetting, chromatic aberrations and focusing complications. Have some faith in the HV20′s lens, it’s a fantastic piece of glass.

Check this out http://www.kenstone.net/fcp_homepage/right_mic_brockett.html
Here your money would be better spent.

Anyways, best of luck.
-Shaun

Thanks for the kind words. I’ve had a lot of fun putting the HV20 rig together and can’t wait for my 35mm adapter to come in (I’ve ordered 2 – a Brevis and a TwoNeil static adapter).

I’m working on putting together some footage now and should have it up later this week. I’m also planning to use the Canon HV20 as one of the main cameras on a low budget feature I’ll be shooting in the late summer/early fall.

M

That’s a nice looking rig!
I’m putting together an HV20 rig myself so it’s interesting to see what others are doing.
I’d love to see what you’ve shot, any chance of posting a few clips?

Cheers,
-Shaun