DV Info Net

DV Info Net (https://www.dvinfo.net/forum/)
-   Special Mounts and Applications (https://www.dvinfo.net/forum/special-mounts-applications/)
-   -   videography on boats (https://www.dvinfo.net/forum/special-mounts-applications/38623-videography-boats.html)

Tim Borek January 31st, 2005 10:13 AM

videography on boats
 
How do you get stable shots from a moving boat? I am planning a vacation that will include some powerboating and watersports. I have camera protection covered, but I've never been disappointed with the bouncy footage shot handheld from a moving boat.

Any suggestions? I'll probably bring my little Panasonic GS120. It's small size make it an easy traveler.

I have an invention in mind. I think this is a good accessory market to tap into, given the growing popularity of extreme watersports and lower-priced DV camcorders. I just want to make sure my idea is unique and ensure I'm not stepping on any toes.

Thanks,

T.J.

Terry Thompson February 1st, 2005 12:45 AM

Tim,

I have used my indicam stabilization system on power boats and found it covers the bumps very nicely however it's hard to get close ups of skiers etc. as a floating camera doesn't like telephoto shots too well. It does great on wide to medium shots though!

Probably the best way to get good close up shots is to brace yourself against something stabile and take the bumps with your legs. Make sure you have someone who can hold on to you so you won't fall overboard.

Another tip is to shoot from the back of the boat where the bumpiness is at it's least.

Terry

James Emory February 1st, 2005 01:30 AM

Marine Stabilizer
 
Just get yourself one of these.

www.makohead.com

Dan Selakovich February 1st, 2005 09:43 AM

"Makohead"... oh my god.

Tim, you might try doing a search on the patent office web site to see if your design has already been tried. Otherwise, go for it! I get asked all the time about a rig for boats. I've been working on a boat rig for Volume 2 of "Killer Camera Rigs", but it doesn't come close to the Makohead! Of course, my do it yourself rig wil be much less expensive if I can get all of the kinks worked out!
Dan
www.DVcamerarigs.com

Arthur Babcock February 1st, 2005 11:04 AM

Tim,

I did quite a bit of this last September for a family film.

I don't have any stabilizer devices and so can't comment on them.

My advice is 1) tape early in the morning or whenever the water is calmest; 2) shoot a lot, and be prepared to use only 5%; 3) for water skiing or wakeboarding, shooting from a camera boat instead of the tow boat does a lot to dispel that "home movie" feel.

Have fun,
Arthur


All times are GMT -6. The time now is 05:33 AM.

DV Info Net -- Real Names, Real People, Real Info!
1998-2024 The Digital Video Information Network