Take a look at the new training DVD from Vortex Media.

"Mastering the Sony PMW-EX1" (http://www.vortexmedia.com/EX1DVD/EX1DVD.html)

Looks very good!

Something for under the Christmas tree. ;-)

I wonder what the "settings and features to avoid" section might contain?

I wonder what the "settings and features to avoid" section might contain?

Order the DVD! ;-)

I did thanks for the heads up Ivan.

I purchased one of Vortex media's interview lighting DVD's and found it to be extremely useful. I was tempted to get this until I saw the price, are people really prepared to pay $125 for a DVD?

B&H has it for $109.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/529801-REG/Vortex_Media_EX1DVD_DVD_Mastering_the_Sony.html

I own their Z1U DVD which is really good.

I think I might purchase their lighting DVD too.

Nice!

I might just have to buy this. Of course it's not in stock at B&H yet...just like the EX1!!! :(

However, nice to know this is going to be available. The EX1 is a lot of camera to just try and figure out so this DVD should come in quite handy.

Thanks for posting this.

I purchased one of Vortex media's interview lighting DVD's and found it to be extremely useful. I was tempted to get this until I saw the price, are people really prepared to pay $125 for a DVD?

It's a double DVD with 3 hours of valuable content and tutorials. Anyone who can get a PMW-EX1, probably can get one of these. I also own "How to setup, light & shoot great looking interviews" and "Hands on XDCAM HD" and find those DVD's worth any cent. If you are going to take a course for a half day, it's going to cost you much more for only one time. This you can watch over and over again at your own tempo.

It's a double DVD with 3 hours of valuable content and tutorials. Anyone who can get a PMW-EX1, probably can get one of these. I also own "How to setup, light & shoot great looking interviews" and "Hands on XDCAM HD" and find those DVD's worth any cent. If you are going to take a course for a half day, it's going to cost you much more for only one time. This you can watch over and over again at your own tempo.

I agree Ivan. We purchased the Hands on DVD for XDCAM just before our F-330 arrived last year to get an under the hood look at the work flow and menu structure and it was well worth the price. It got us up and running right out of the box without digging into the manual and even offered some downloadable presets from their website to get started. The demo DVD training preview on the site shows some excellent footage shot with the EX-1 and a link to one of the chapters from it as well.

I received "Mastering the Sony PMW-EX1" today and have been through the first DVD and it is excellent. I highly recommend it to EX1 owners.

Paul,

Did you buy direct from Vortex, or from B&H? I have mine on order form B&H and have been waiting for a while.

Graeme I purchased direct from Vortex and was told I received one of the first 6 since I am only 15 miles away. So they are now going out the door.

I received "Mastering the Sony PMW-EX1" today and have been through the first DVD and it is excellent. I highly recommend it to EX1 owners.

I hope to pick one up at B&H tomorrow when my EX1 arrives. Book manuals are good references, but DVD instruction, especially when done well, is the best way to learn for me. If I can find this thread after watching it and playing with my EX1 ( can't wait), I'll post my feedback also.

My copy (shipped by Vortex to the UK) arrived yesterday.

As someone still waiting delivery of his PMW-EX1 and somewhat bored with reading and re-reading the manual (which has too many gaps or missing explanations for a novice like me) I was really impressed with this DVD set.

Good stuff!

Just got my copy delivered today.

Excellent production, very pleased.

(Now if only the kids would go to bed I could get control of my TV and watch it again!).

Cheers Vaughan

I've watched the DVDs last week end to end. There's some very interesting comments.

He mentions never using auto focus (like any pro would suggest) EXCEPT when following action. The shot shows people walking along a sidewalk with trees passing in front of them. The focus tracks the people walking and does not refocus on the trees as they pass behind. I think this is KEY to how focus works on the EX1 IMHO. What people call "slow" response of the auto focus is actually a GOOD thing for tracking action. It stays on the object being tracked and does not attempt to refocus on objects passing closer. I made a comment a while back when people where concerned about the slow response. More common among professionals is to manually focus on DIFFERENT objects but use auto focus to track. Of course one might like both options and it would be nice if there was a "focus response time" control in the camera.

He also mentions "push auto focus" works differently than other cameras and he doesn't like it. Most cameras stop focusing when the button is released. EX1 continues (probably like MF assist which he also doesn't like) and often makes a "bad" decision. Hence it'll hunt even in push auto.

I really really really wish someone would make a training video specific to Picture Profiles. I don't have infinite time to experiment . . . that's why I get training DVDs in the first place.

Yes - I noticed that too Craig - I was holding my breath thinking "It's going to focus on the trees soon ..." but it didn't. I guess if the pan had paused at that point it would have refocused, but it was impresive how it stayed on the walkers.

Next test session I shall try some similar shots and see how long it holds off from refocussing.

Any other interesting thing you didn't know and learned on the DVD ?
Is it really woth it when you have already used the EX1 for some time ?

Thanks.

A good question...
I'm thinking about ordering the dvds and also the dvd about lightning Interviews. But because I am from Germany, there will be a lot of shipping costs and taxes, too... very often I order (movie) dvds from the states and usually the shipping costs are like nothing to think about. But the only companies whicht I found for the Vortex dvds for international orders have shipping costs above almost 40,- Dollars ! For one dvd set !! Can anyone recommend a good (and cheaper) store or website for international orders of the Vortex stuff?

Craig great point with the auto focus. As for Picture Profile DVD that would be very helpful. I am spending way too much time on my settings with a big shoot coming up.

Did he also happen to mention the AF really only works well when shooting interlace footage? Of course, this has been true with many cameras.

A good question...
I'm thinking about ordering the dvds and also the dvd about lightning Interviews. But because I am from Germany, there will be a lot of shipping costs and taxes, too... very often I order (movie) dvds from the states and usually the shipping costs are like nothing to think about. But the only companies whicht I found for the Vortex dvds for international orders have shipping costs above almost 40,- Dollars ! For one dvd set !! Can anyone recommend a good (and cheaper) store or website for international orders of the Vortex stuff?

If the normal DVinfo vendors are out of stock , order direct from http://www.vortexmedia.com/ Shipping was only $15 for several items.
Seems like it does not matter if you order 1 item - or 10. Shipping was the same. < And they have other cool stuff on the site like warm cards and rain covers. > That Eazy Slate is on my wish list too!

They are expensive DVDs and the chances are you will only watch them once. So if anyone on here has now watched and finished with their copy, get some of your money back by PM me and I will buy it off you. Paypal.
Cheers
Steve

A good question...
I'm thinking about ordering the dvds and also the dvd about lightning Interviews. But because I am from Germany, there will be a lot of shipping costs and taxes, too... very often I order (movie) dvds from the states and usually the shipping costs are like nothing to think about. But the only companies whicht I found for the Vortex dvds for international orders have shipping costs above almost 40,- Dollars ! For one dvd set !! Can anyone recommend a good (and cheaper) store or website for international orders of the Vortex stuff?

Hello Rainer Mann,

I'm a from Belgium, and I also ordered already several DVD's directly from Vortex Media. The DVD's are certainly worth the price. After shooting video more then 20 years I still learned a lot from their DVD "How to setup, light & shoot great looking interviews". After watching that DVD I even purchased the same kit as mentioned in the video.

Sunday morning, after a short night I have been watching the DVD-set “Mastering the Sony PMW-EX1”, that I received a couple of days ago.

With the coffee can and some donuts next to me I watched the two DVD’s in one piece. Almost three full hours of valuable content for everyone who owns the new Sony PMW-EX1 XDCAM EX camera. This DVD must be in your toolkit, just like a tripod, if you are serious about shooting professional video.

Although it still is a standard definition NTSC DVD and I am in PAL land, the quality of the picture looked awesome on my new 40” Bravia TV from Sony. The DVD structure is very simple and straight to the point, which makes it very easy to navigate.

From the first chapter you feel right at home. The presentation is very well done. When someone is watching the DVD with the camera by her or his side, she or he gets enough time to make the settings that are explained. You are getting lots of tips that will help you master your camera even better after watching this DVD. Throughout the whole DVD-set I never got the impression it was sponsored by Sony. This DVD is completely independent.

The only thing that really scared me was an atrocious crocodile eating Barbie and Ken’s daughter! ;-) Just kidding! It’s a well done animation.

What I personally also liked very much is the explanation about how to archive those S&S cards. It’s a cheap and save method if you ask me.

In a couple of weeks I’m finally going to switch from Windows to a Macintosh computer. A new 8-core Mac Pro workstation with Final Cut Studio is on my list. So, the chapter about Final Cut Pro & XDCAM Transfer was very welcome to me.

For me personally, on a scale 10 it deserves a 10!

Very well done. I recommended it to everyone who already owns, or is going to buy a Sony PMW-EX1 camcorder. After watching this DVD, everyone with a little bit of talent can pick up an PMW-EX1 and start shooting gorgeous HD footage without even touching the manual supplied by Sony. Never expected less, because all the DVD’s and products I own from Vortex Media are great and well calculated products.

Doug Jensen did a presentation with Rule Broadcast on the EX-1, and his presentation helped to convince me to buy the EX. I ordered his DVD but haven't received it yet, but really 100 bucks or so of solid training is invaluable and for those of us buying the camera its really pennies.

Vortex cannot be selling oodles of these things and they have to make a living, so I just think its a shame to re-sell or duplicate hard work that they are putting out. We are all essentially in the same boat and nobody wants to have their work sold for less than its worth.

B

Unfortunately this conversation was has drifted off-topic, which resulted in a number of posts which hijacked an otherwise great discussion being withdrawn from public view. Just a reminder, please do not hijack threads. I'll re-open it soon.

Just got my copy of "Mastering the Sony PMW-EX1" and it's worth every penny

I'm picking up the camera the first week of feb

Brian

Just got my copy of "Mastering the Sony PMW-EX1" and it's worth every penny

Brian

Brian

Did you buy it from the US or have you found a UK source?

Cheers, Nick

Hi Nick
From Vortex Media USA
Brian

HI Brian! I am just up the road from you. Was in Poole last night. Will be using the EX1 to film Press and practice at Poole speedway 5th March.

Was going to buy the dvds but too expensive, even if they are good!

My own thoughts on the price of the DVDs. I've bought and watched the DVDs and found it quite informative and useful. With all my years of experience I probably could have learned everything I saw on the DVD . . . BUT TIME IS MONEY.

I learned in 3 hours what might have taken me a day or two or three. Given my hourly rate, I've saved hours of experimentation and discovery which means more time I can spend earning income.

It's not whether you can learn it all yourself, it's if you're a working professional can you learn it as fast otherwise.

I'll earn several times the cost of the DVD on the first half day shoot. I'd rather do that than tie myself up experimenting for a day without income.

HI Brian! I am just up the road from you. Was in Poole last night. Will be using the EX1 to film Press and practice at Poole speedway 5th March.

Was going to buy the dvds but too expensive, even if they are good!

Hi Steve will walk over and see you

Brian

Another vote saying it's worth the money. I watched this before I got my camera and I've been watching it, with judicious use of the Pause button, again now that my EX1 is delivered.

If Sony had sense they'd have commissioned this for the camera launch and placed it in every box even if it meant a slight mark-up in price.

My own thoughts on the price of the DVDs. I've bought and watched the DVDs and found it quite informative and useful. With all my years of experience I probably could have learned everything I saw on the DVD . . . BUT TIME IS MONEY.

I learned in 3 hours what might have taken me a day or two or three. Given my hourly rate, I've saved hours of experimentation and discovery which means more time I can spend earning income.

It's not whether you can learn it all yourself, it's if you're a working professional can you learn it as fast otherwise.

I'll earn several times the cost of the DVD on the first half day shoot. I'd rather do that than tie myself up experimenting for a day without income.

I ordered my copy because like Craig, it is not Can I Learn This Myself but rather will the DVDs help me learn it faster. As for the price, I compared that to hiring a trainer or trying to get into a class and it proves to be cost effective.

Also, now the video resides on my IPhone so I have a reference tool I can carry with me where ever I go.

David Schmerin
www.GotFootageHD.com

My EX1 samples can be downloaded from ftp://vegas:demo@download.gotfootage.com

I too have watched the DVD and it is Great! Made me wish I actually had the camera in front of me as well. I will be ordering in Feb.

Hi there folks.

I've just completed the sale of my Canon XL-2 and am gearing up for 2008. After a lot of consideration, I've decided to make the jump to HD with the EX. Here's what is in my shopping cart at BH. I'd like to get any feedback from EX users who could suggest anything that I'm missing. I'd hate to pick this up and realize that I'm one essential piece of gear. I'm trying to keep this under 10k, but if there's something big that I'm missing, please suggest. Thanks!


- Sony PMW-EX1 XDCAM EX
- Apple Final Cut Studio 2 Production Software Suite for Mac
- Kata CC-195 GDC DV Shoulder Case
- Vortex Media DVD: Mastering the Sony PMW-EX1
- Sony SBAC-US10 SxS Memory Card USB Reader/Writer

If you are planning to use only the battery supplied with the camera, it will not give you much (unless you are not planning to use DC) - so think of more batteries.

Also, unless you intend to download immediately to a laptop, you need more cards.

Relying only on the built in mic is not the most ideal scenario - but if you are under a tight budget then it has to do.

ditto to everything what Brian said plus I would buy another charger. You can't charge batteries and run off DC power at the same time. Also, if you want to charge 2 batteries overnight, you're going to be getting up in the middle of the night.

The USB card reader isn't a necessity since you can plug the camera right into the computer with supplied USB cable. Although you'll find that the USB connection is a real pain in the butt to get to on the camera. I think the card reader is overpriced, anyway. The only value you get out of it is not having to maneuver to the USB slot in the camera.

In short, more power, more cards. Remember that your FREE card is going to take up to 8 weeks.

You dont need another charger just to supply power to the cam if you have a card reader,you can power the cam with the card reader power lead.Both camera and card reader are 12volt inputs.

Paul, is the 12V out on the card reader's power supply providing the same current flow as the ex1's power adapter?

The ex1's PS outputs 12 V @ 2 Amps
The card reader appears to consume 3 Watts only - the camera is 12 Watts so i'm assuming there may be difference. Probably a lot less

Also not sure if the EX1 is regualted
I used to have a DSR300 and i put a 12 or 13 V power supply on it which was rated at 3 Amps and the camera would shut off. It needed about 4 Amps. On an older camera I had the circuit breaker on the camera went off because voltage was not good


Thanks
Paul

Also, now the video resides on my IPhone so I have a reference tool I can carry with me where ever I go.


What a brilliant idea!

Well I thought it expensive but purchased it online today for $99.95. May as well make sure I am completely up to speed. I have a wedding in less than a months time and need to be more than comfortable around the camera.

Just viewed my newly purchased DVD copy (from B&H) and am very pleased. 'Tis a useful reference tool. I too have additional copies on my iphone and Macbook Pro for field reference.

Great stuff!

great dvd... several great workflow tips - naming files etc... Great demos and test footage for timelapse and slow shutter. I'd give it a B+ , A- overall, I'd like to see and advance user DVD with lots of test footage of all the custom user settings. Overall some great tips and time saving work flows.

I have used the card readers power adapter for full days of shooting with no problems.

It is a much smaller package.

Good DVD... a couple of questions please....

1) how are you guys ripping the DVD's to your Iphone...
2) does anyone know what backpack they are using with the camera...

Does anyone know if there are any UK companies/people selling the vortex training dvd for the ex1 in the UK? i ask because i hope to purchase one within the next 7 days before i head out on an important shoot and if i order from the states it will take well over a week to arrive. If anyone knows of a company or even has a second hand copy for sale, please let me know. Thank you.

Not if you get it shipped Fedex Priority. I got mine within 3 days.

Just wondering if there was a typo on the dvd when Doug was explaining the combining of time lapse with ex slow shutter specifically the night scene whilst driving the vehicle through the streets the dvd shows time lapse of 1 frame/sec with SLS of 8. But i cant find 8 in the pull down menu in the camera only 16,32,& 64