Re: How can I get some experience editing footage (and shooting if possible)?
 

Thanks all. Good info. I am torn to be honest..I need 4 of me to do all that I enjoy. I absolutely love my DSLR rig. I love being able to shoot video, try to frame the shot right. I am still learning with regards to lighting, the right ISO/speed/etc settings. It's so much fun to do. I also happen to love the audio side of things. I am drooling at the H6N and plan to get it when it comes out. I have one good (I say good, it was $220..thats a bit of a price for a mic to me) XLR boom, I use my Audio Technica XLR as a 2nd mic and use a third smaller/cheaper boom attach to my T2i input for a alignment track. So I love that part of it as well. And then there is editing.. which is also a lot of fun. I am still trying to figure out how to accurately match footage shot at different times of the day, thus different lighting, as well as grading for the final output, on top of learning how to cut and assemble video (and audio including sync).

Thus, my problem.. wanting to do it all. I've read that typically you try to stick to one thing and do it well. But as a hobbyist right now, I have a hard time with that. I know I have a lot more to learn in every area, but I want to learn every area. At least with regards to using the camera, audio and editing.

But ultimately I probably enjoy the editing part the most. If I had an opportunity to get paid to shoot video, manage audio, or edit, I'd want to edit.

Paul, thank you for the potential opportunity. I think what would probably benefit me the most is the offer to get some "test" footage from someone that knows how to edit/grade, see what I can do and give me constructive criticism. I often wonder how big budget films work out because the editor as far as I know is probably not on the set while recording is going on, so they may not see the same vision the director is going for. Do editors typically follow the script the direcotr (and whoever else) filmed by and do their best to understand the same vision as those that shot/directed it?

Thanks again all.

Filming one hour in Silver Spring, MD
 

Hello,

I have a friend who's a musician and I was going to film him on June 15th, in some Blues Festival in Silver Spring, Maryland. His performace will last less than an hour.
We had agree of 500 bucks, with editing, which shouldn't be tht complicated.
Now, I'm going to be traveling for family reasons and wont' be able to do it.
Is there anybody on this forum, local, who could do that for the same amount of money?
Thanks
Larry

Re: Filming one hour in Silver Spring, MD
 

You probably mean this festival:

Silver Spring Blues Festival at Downtown Silver Spring

What did you commit to camera wise? What kind of access will the shooter(s) have to the stage for miking?

Re: Filming one hour in Silver Spring, MD
 

I have a Canon XH A1 . I'm not sure what's the access though, never been there, but you're right, it's the festival you pointed out

Re: How can I get some experience editing footage (and shooting if possible)?
 

Kevin,

If you're confident in your abilities - and it sounds like you are - then do not be afraid to be pro-active and contact local businesses, bands or sporting clubs offering them a free video or two. Be upfront with them and say you're looking to get into the business and can offer them xyz for free. Set your terms though - for example, if you really want to work on your interview set-ups, tell them you'll only shoot a project that includes interviews - that way you are gaining something from it too.

Re: Filming one hour in Silver Spring, MD
 

If you search the festival name in YouTube, you'll get a good idea of what the set up would be.

Looks like outdoor festival in a mall, with bad acoustics and just people wandering in front of shot.

Probably a mission impossible it terms of customer satisfaction ? Also, the scheduling of time seems loose, with flyer indicating times subject to change.

Re: How can I get some experience editing footage (and shooting if possible)?
 

Kevin: Where in California ?

If you are interested in narrative film making, there are all kinds of organizations that feature people like you and I who make film for the love of it. Check internet for local film making groups. The local 48 Hour film festivals are a good way to get involved in depth real quick.


Biggest problem you will have is learning to say no. A lot of these groups have people with big ideas about shooting this or that, and they won't hesitate to take advantage of what you can provide them without charge In fact, with respect to most shooting in local independent productions, not much money gets paid out to crew. I have yet to see anyone but wedding shooters and commercial shooters making a living in the business. There are just so many people running around with gear these days that are willing to shoot a day or two on a project just for the experience that budgets for productions don't give much to camera pointers. You just got to love it.

On the other hand, if you are not trying to make it a paying career, you have the freedom to do what you want. Its certainly much easier to fund your camera and gear "habit" from a better paying career, and then shoot things you want to shoot with like minded people.

Re: Filming one hour in Silver Spring, MD
 

There are at least two venues, but absent permission to set up on stage, capturing decent audio is problematic. I know the "stealth" tapers do it but that could mean a two-man crew.

Wondering what sort of editing is expected on a single-camera shoot. Also would need the delivery format and turn-around time.

Sorry to keep asking questions but it could be a huge waste of time otherwise. For instance, is the festival "harsh" with videographers not on their crew?

Re: Filming one hour in Silver Spring, MD
 

The guy doesn't expect professional services for 500 bucks. he knows what can be expected for that amount of money. Initially that was a favor I was going to do him and I wish I could but I'm not available anymore.
If somebody is interested I can have you talk to him and ask him anything you need to know
Larry

Re: Orange County - Event Wedding Cinematographer videographer
 

Hey greg, I'm in Maryland for a shoot right now, when I get back on monday i'll be sending you an email. I looked through your profile and was able to find your info.
-chris

Re: How can I get some experience editing footage (and shooting if possible)?
 

I live in the Sacramento area. I'd love to make a career of this, but not sure what sort of pay editors and/or camera operators can make. As a software engineer (who is presently out of work), I am curious if I'll make (or can make) close to what I do (did) as a software engineer. Given that I have a family, mortgage, etc, I am unfortunately not able to just do free or low paid jobs for the next many months. I guess I'd prefer editing over on location camera shooting because I have a decent setup at home, and it wouldn't involve much if any travel to do it.

I am confident in that I can learn what I may not know now, which is probably a lot. I of course can't charge much if anything initially until I have something to demo with and show what I can do. That's where I'd like to get started if possible.

Thanks.

Re: Filming one hour in Silver Spring, MD
 

I would guess that a video plus a 2nd person to get in close with a H4N and a couple mics might provide a decent setup in something like this? Is there a tap from the mixer that can be used for the audio?

Re: How can I get some experience editing footage (and shooting if possible)?
 

In that case I'd look for a steady income as a software engineer and basically, not waste time following your video editing dream.
Wait till your circumstances improve.

Cheers.

Re: How can I get some experience editing footage (and shooting if possible)?
 

Kevin,

Allow me to chime in as someone who went through the exact same dilemma a couple of years ago. I got laid off from a decent electronics technician job in the middle of 2010. Family, small kids, mortgage, car payment, you name it... living the American "dream". Turned into a nightmare in a heartbeat. I was fortunate enough to receive unemployment insurance for the maximum time allowed by the law, and build up slowly my videography business at the same time. In case you wonder, this is not only lawful, but encouraged by the DOL.

BUT! Again, I was fortunate enough that my wife was able to put in additional hours at her job as an RN and made up for the difference (financially). If you don't have this option, I would advise you against going the video route. It is a very, very slow-start business, very frustrating, with tons of promises and few deliveries. Do not, and I will emphasize DO NOT go the Craigslist way where you offer your services for free in hopes of paid work later - there is no such thing! Just sharks trying to take advantage of you, and get work done for free.

I know this is not what you want to hear, but it's an honest, disinterested advice from someone who walked this walk. Today I make a decent living doing mostly legal work, but also corporate and some event (no weddings) - but it took me three years to get here.

Whatever you decide, I wish you all the best.

Re: How can I get some experience editing footage (and shooting if possible)?
 

Ervin,

Thank you for the honest reply. Pretty much what you said is what I figured would happen. However, how did you get paying business with nothing to show of your work when you didn't have anything to show initially? I would think doing a few free gigs gets you in the door to learn some things, build up a reel, and if you error, it's free, so no hard feelings hopefully.

I tell you, the video business for things like weddings seems like a bad choice.. photographers make more and do less, if you factor in the editing time after shooting video all day. The other problem is, there is just way too much competition around. With so many options, word of mouth seems to be the best bet in this business for most things.

My dream of course is to make music videos and commercials. That said, I know it's cut throat and the chances are slim without some sort of "in" or, as you did in your case, years of build up.

My wife is a nurse too, but unfortunately is also out on disability, and thanks to working a contract gig last year, I get no unemployment. I do have most of the gear now, although my camera is crap, I am looking to replace it with the BM Pocket Cinema Camera in August. I have a full rig, audio recorder with a couple boom mics (do need some lavs), slider, (no jib, not sure I want to spend money on that unless I get paid making a music video and have use for it). I plan on buying a couple Rokinon cine lens, maybe the SLR one as well for wide angles, but otherwise, I think I am "ok" on gear for now. I do plan to upgrade to the H6N when it comes out as well. I'd love the 4K cinema camera, but that is a bit out of reach anytime soon.

I'd love to shoot a movie, but I can't even fathom how to do that. The tech side, sure.. doubt I am near as good as many on this forum, but I can set up the camera, some lighting (still learning), sound, etc and shoot the film. It's the actual script that I can't come up with. Not even sure how you connect with people with scripts either. It would be fun. I think when time allows and money is coming in again, I'd like to try some of the 48 hour film shoots and community film projects if I can get in with some.

Doco and former TV news videojournalist looking for interesting opportunities abroad
 

I'm at an interesting crossroads in my life - I live in Hollywood North right now (Vancouver, BC Canada) and a great deal of the work I have traditionally made a living doing is now being undercut by recent grads of film schools, regardless of ability.

I'm tired of playing Don Quixote and "tilting at windmills" trying to change and/or inform the masses and I am essentially looking at getting out of the video production game for good...

BUT!

I just had an exceptionally good chat with a friend of mine who knows me and my passions and she suggested that what has always made me HAPPIEST (with some flexibility around that definition...) is my social justice storytelling and sharing important stories with people most at risk who frankly despite the "democratization of video" still don't have voices that are being heard.

So I put it out there to you folks:

I am looking for international opportunities preferable off the Americas that pay enough to have some cash left at the end of a pay period where I would be doing great work, preferably with a REAL news bent (I don't want to do PR work for international conglomerates) aligned with my beliefs in accountability in news acquisition and balanced and fair representation of parties involved.

I'd consider NGO opportunities ONLY if the transparency was high enough in my opinion.

My gold standard for something like this might resemble working with Al-Jazeera in Eurasia as a video journalist.

Downside: I'm an Anglophone. I'm comfortable working in other languages, as evidenced by docs I've shot and edited where primary language was not English (Brazilian Portuguese, German, Tamil) and have worked in the newsroom of the Canadian Public Broadcaster in French but my mastery of other language is virtually non-existent.

I've worked in Brazil and Jamaica on a street kids documentary, in Germany on an economic refugee story and Tamil Nadu, India on a one-year-after-tsunami rebuilding story as well as a lot of social justice and labour stories domestically.

I come from a broadcast background, not a film background.

If anyone has any ideas/leads, PLEASE do not hesitate to contact me via this forum or via email at : roaddogmedia (at) gmail (dot) com

Again, looking for PAID opportunities but don't need to get rich. Enough money to live plus take an annual vacation abroad to "get away from the stress" would be adequate. More is obviously better.

Thanks for reading!

Re: Doco and former TV news videojournalist looking for interesting opportunities abr
 

Of course, I recognize that MY definition of "fair and balanced" may differ from yours.

Please don't allow this to turn into a mud-slinging contest/political soapbox.

I think it is quite apparent what sort of opportunity I'm seeking, based on my core values. I respect differences of opinion - please extend the same courtesy to me.

Thanks in advance.

Re: Camera Jib Operator Wanted ..::PAID::..
 

Im Still looking for please replay

Re: How can I get some experience editing footage (and shooting if possible)?
 

Just to clarify my earlier comment on doing free work - I agree with Ervin that Craigslist ads are a waste of time. If, however, you want to do some work for free to get experience, choose the businesses you want to work with and contact them directly to make an offer. That way you can bring ideas to them and work on what you want to work on - so you are getting something out of it too.

Of course, you don't want to be doing free work for long, but you do need to have something to show people when you're just starting out.

Re: Doco and former TV news videojournalist looking for interesting opportunities abr
 

Wow, Shaun, what you're doing is totally awesome! What you are trying to accomplish is the true meaning of life...to get out there and experience people and cultures, in their environment. That is how to learn and live!

In a situation like this, I think having a facebook account really helps if you don't already have one. Post your situation and desire there, and I'm sure your friends could hook you up with potential possibilities.

My hat goes off to you. With your attitude, I'm sure you won't have to search too hard, the work will come to you! Good luck and keep us posted with your experiences!

Re: Filming one hour in Silver Spring, MD
 

I'm in the area, and I specialize in concert recordings. You can see a recent video from the University of Maryland here:

Re: Doco and former TV news videojournalist looking for interesting opportunities abr
 

Thanks Warren. I've got a similar "plea" on both my personal and business Facebook pages, information around what I'm looking for on my LinkedIn account as well as in the hands of a couple of very well connected social media friends of mine.

In addition, I have filled out an application at Aljazeera's web site.

I've never been one to put all my eggs in one basket so I have spread the proverbial net far and wide.

I grew up poor - the only way I can make a difference in this world is by leaving a LIVING legacy. I'll never be rich but I've earned a fair and decent living doing video for 15 years. Now as the market is softening, I'm trying to get back to why I started all this in the first place.

When I do shed this mortal coil, I hope my eulogy sounds something like "he may have never been rich, but he led a life rich in experiences and made a difference".

Or perhaps "he may have BEEN rich but..." <sly grin>

Looking to get more experience.
 

Hey there,

My name is Sachi Bahra, I'm 19 years old and am an aspiring cinematographer studying at the School of Visual Arts. I have worked on a few short films and would like to work on more sets in the camera department throughout the summer. I am currently in Manhattan, contact me via email at sbahra8@gmail.com if any of you are in the area!

Looking to get more experience.
 

Hey there,

My name is Sachi Bahra, I'm 19 years old and am an aspiring cinematographer studying at the School of Visual Arts. I have worked on a few short films and would like to work on more sets in the camera department throughout the summer. I am currently in Manhattan, contact me via email at sbahra8@gmail.com if any of you are in the area!

EX3 for 3Hr Shoot in Philly 05/23/13
 

I was just asked tonight if I would be available to do a shoot in Philly on Thursday and I will need a second operator with camera (EX3 only) and sticks - easy indoor shoot beginning around 9:30am. You will need enough cards/battery to record straight through for 3 hours, will download material to my laptop. Pay in cash at end of job.

I will find out tomorrow if this is a go but will need to give them a price at that point.

contact me with your price if available asap at:
kevin.spahr at spahrproductions dot com

Thanks!

Job Filled
 

I found someone for this job!

2nd shooter in Boston for 2hr conference shoot on 6/5/13
 

Hi,

I need 2nd shooter in Boston on 6/5 for 2hrs 3 camera conference shoot.
I will be shooting with my two GH2's and it will be great if you'll have either your own GH2, GH3 or AF100
You should be able to accomplish medium close-ups and wide follow shots on single speaker.
Should be easy 2 hr work, no transfer required. No sound setup needed from you. Just camera and tripod. Can pay 175 + 25 for transportation/parking.
Shoot me an email if interested alex@treeam.com

Thank you!

Anyone in Chicago for small corporate gig?
 

Putting together a proposal for a corp gig that may include 1 or 2 quick shoots in Chicago (trying to figure out if it's better for me to travel or just subcontract someone in Chicago. Probably will take place in June or July....but since this is the corp world, that is always subject to change.

Will just be 1 or 2 different people talking to camera. Nothing crazy, just 1 camera & basic audio/lighting package needed. No teleprompter. Footage will have to be sent to me to edit.

Please let me know your level of corporate experience, equipment and rates.Feel free to email links to your work.

thanks.

Re: Anyone in Chicago for small corporate gig?
 

Mike,
I should be available. Hit me with a PM and I'll be happy to give you details of my gear and you can ask me what you need to know.

Atlanta Friday May 24 2PM
 

I need a camcorder shooter for a short gig in Smyrna.

One camera (HD or pro SD - final product is DVD) on tripod, one wireless mic. 60 minutes max, setup time (30 minutes) at 1.30PM.

No DSLRs please.

PM here or text 770-355-5379.

Thanks,

Re: Anyone in Chicago for small corporate gig?
 

Thanks Don, email sent.

Isle of Man: June 6, 7
 

I'll be visiting the Isle of man the first week of June and will be filming my travels for a small TV show I produce (doing most of my own filming along the way). I would like a camera operator available for part of the day on June 6 for some closed-course driving I'll be doing, and then (possibly) on June 7th as well to shoot me driving the TT course (car, not bike.) I will provide a Sony FS100, so no camera is necessary. (though, if you have your own, we can discuss.) Pay DOE. If interested you can email me at rdouthit - at - gmail.com

Here's a sample of what I do (from my last UK trip.)


Cheers,

Ryan

Re: 2nd shooter in Boston for 2hr conference shoot on 6/5/13
 

All set. Thank you!

DOP, Gaffer, Camera Operator - AVAILABLE (Ontario)
 

My name is Michael Frymus and I am seeking job opportunities working freelance or within a company as a Director of Photography, Gaffer, or Camera Operator.

Although I am not considered a professional DOP, Camera Operator or a Gaffer with over 15 years experience, I am very knowledgeable in the field. I am willing to work as the key position or an assistant in either department.

I have over four (4) years experience working as a Director of Photography, Gaffer, and Camera Operator on a wide variety of film productions ranging from Music Videos, Commercials, Short Films, Feature Films, Documentaries, and TV Shows on low budgeted productions. I would like to pursue working in one of these departments to further expand my knowledge by working on other productions whether it may be a key position or an assistant.

I recently joined and work part of IATSE local 873 as an Electric Permittee obtaining industry professional experience on set. This helps me learn more about lighting and camera, which will be a great asset for your production(s).

I am located in Southern Ontario (Close to Toronto, Ont), but I am available for hire worldwide.

Contact:
Further information can be seen on my website listed below along with my Demo Reel. I can be reached anytime on my cell phone or through my email address (Both listed below). I have also enclosed my resume and I look forward to hearing from you and working on your production(s), Thank you.

WEBSITE:
MICHAEL FRYMUS

EMAIL:
dop-michaelfrymus@live.com

CV RESUME:

Long Island NY - Self Producer Needed (FCPX)
 

We run a production company in CT and have a Luxury-type client in LI. We produce 90 second "business cards" for them. The shoot is an interview(s) and b-roll at one location in approximately two hours ($300). Each additional location is ala carte ($50).

We need a self-producer to shoot and edit these pieces, you need to have your own gear and be cutting in FCPX. Obviously, high-quality picture and sound are crucial. Additionally, the shooter needs to look and act the part of the professional. The workflow, L3's and bumpers are templatized in FCPX.

We need experienced problem solvers. The location might be tight, it may need lighting...the interviewee may need some scripting/dialog guidance. In other words someone that has been producing for awhile.

Re: Long Island NY - Self Producer Needed (FCPX)
 

Alternatively...someone that just does the shoot would get $200 + $25 for each additional location.

San Bernardino/Redlands area Need shooter end of June, early July
 

Need shooter with camera/lighting/audio for product training video. XF300/EX1 or better camera preferred. DSLR can be used for b-roll but not main video.
Please contact me as soon as possible with rates and demo reel. rob@yipdogstudios.com

LOCATION - Oklahoma City. Interview Shoot.
 

Anybody here in the Oklahoma City area? May need an interview shot the last week of July. Please respond with contact info and link to samples if possible. Please let me know what gear you would shoot and record audio with. I'll contact you off-line to talk about prices, but we are looking for a one-person "crew" and half-day rates are always appreciated.

THANKS!

Rob Neidig
Manager, Digital Imaging
Health & Safety Institute
rneidig@hsi.com

Re: San Bernardino/Redlands area Need shooter end of June, early July
 

Anyone?? This is a paid gig!!

Re: San Bernardino/Redlands area Need shooter end of June, early July
 

Hi Robert,
I just may be able to help out.
I am in Orange County, San Juan Capistrano. I will send you e mail message.