Mixing it up with Pitbull
Watch the HD video here: Chivas 12 Hours feat. Pitbull
I Know You Want Me... Pitbull gyrates to screaming fans
The party was Chivas 12 Hours. An eagerly anticipated event where 6 internationally acclaimed DJs performed for 12 hours to a crowd of more than 6,000 party goers. Guest entries were USD 59 and VIP entries were USD 82. Not only were the DJs of international stock, the crowd was a rich mixture of nationalities.
This night was significant to us because we shot it with two cameras: Canon EOS 7D and Sony EX3. This is a HD production with a dedicated video camera and a DSLR. This is an HD event video all the way!
The Cinematography team- Sai Bee with EX3, Baron with EOS 7D and Eddy our assistant
Our cinematographer Sai Bee shot with the Sony EX3 while Baron had his EOS 7D on the microShoulderMount. Both cameras were equipped with mobile video LED lights. This is a collaboration between two of the industry's most revered cameras. We were all eager to see how it turned out when the footage held up during film editing.
The neat thing about the EX3 was its compatibility with the Mac. The EX3 uses the Express 34 memory card as its recording media and our 17" MacBook Pro comes with the Express 34 built in. Perfect match.
Ravi, our apprentice from Saito College goes on stage with DJ Roger Shah
It was a sensational night. We were entertained by DJ Blink and Xu, DJ Roger Shah, Grammy Award Winning Italian DJ Benny Benassi, Hard Dance Queen DJ Lisa Lashes and Mr. MIAMI himself, Pitbull.
Audio Acquisition
The Automatic Gain Control (AGC) of the EOS 7D made it impossible to capture consistent quality audio. Being in auto mode meant the camera would reduce audio peaking after it happens. We were filming almost always in close proximity to outdoor-sized audio speakers and the 7D couldn't stop the audio from breaking. Without an external audio recorder like the Zoom H4N, the 7D won't be doing a good job at large events like this.
The EX3 on the other hand, fared much better. It has an integrated mic with manual audio controls. As long as the cinematographer checks his audio levels and sets them accordingly, audio recording will be good.
Oye! Pitbull does another one of his numbers
Light Sensitivity
The 7D triumphs here.
Both cameras were deployed with a mobile LED video light attached to their hotshoe. The US made LitePanels worked as advertised, this is not our first shoot with them. Both cameras went out to capture footage of crowd dancing, drinking and having a good time.
Baron films a 'flaring' demonstration by the Chivas bartenders
Setting the Gain to 12db makes the noise really stand out so the EX3 filmed at 6db Gain, with LitePanels' dimmer set to maximum brightness. Footage was good although a touch grainy.
The highest ISO we set on the 7D was 1,000. Grain was hardly noticeable. LitePanels was rarely used if at all. The cinematographer simply positioned himself, pressed record and waited for the house lights to blink and pulsate to the DJ's song. The brilliant lighting display complemented the equally excellent audio performance by the artistes.
Sai Bee grabs some close-ups of a DJ working on his turntable
Footage quality
Again, praises go to the 7D. It's shallow depth of field made subjects stand out from the background, something the EX3 simply couldn't match. Even with its 1/3" sensor, the EX3 isn't able to throw backgrounds out of focus as beautifully as the 7D can. The 7D also made images and colours look richer and more 'solid' compared to the EX3.
Overheat. The annoyng big red thermometer icon. Time for a break!
Power Zoom. Film Directors and Cinematographers will be happy to note that the two cameras bear inherently unique features. The EX3 has lets the user do power zooms. It's zoom ring revolves with a smooth turn, allowing the user to change focal length (zoom) at the twist of the wrist. DSLRs are severely setback here. The lens gear isn't smooth to pull off a clean power zoom.
The EX3 also has an aperture ring which makes exposure control very convenient- the ring is located less than an inch away from the zoom ring. One doesn't have to press buttons and twist dials to get the proper iris setting- the hand that does the focusing also controls zooming and iris settings. On the 7D, the user rotates a dial located near his right thumb, convenient but I prefer the ergonomics of the EX3.
Where The Wild Things Are- Watching the crowd go wild, cheering their DJ
Rim Lighting. The clever positioning of backlight outlines the subject against a darker, contrasted background. Considered an advanced form of creative expression, Rim Lighting is the mark of a professional cinematographer.
Successful rim lighting doesn't depend solely on lighting. It depends also on the videography equipment. Here, the 7D performs exceptionally. Its sensor is large enough to capture the nuances of that thin light that outlines a subject. The EX3 needs more setup time from the cinematographer, something that isn't readily available during an event shoot.
Why we do what we do... DJ Benny Benazzi's entourage take a fancy to us 
Overheating. Unique only to HD DSLRs when filming in HD, overheating is an annoyance that plague DSLR cinematographers worldwide. I will write a separate entry about this. To overcome this, brief periods of rest (for the camera, not the user!) is recommended. When the overheat icon shows itself, let the camera rest for about 60 seconds. There's no such issue with video cameras, they can go on shooting till the cows come home.
The EX3 HD video camera- ergonomic, well designed and packed with features
The EX3 connects to the Mac via the Express34 card slot. The Sony Clip Browser transfers footage to the hard disk. The 7D hooks up via the provided USB cable (Mini-A). Footage is downloaded through Canon's EOS Utility. I'm very happy that EX3 footage plays back smoothly on the 17" MacBook Pro in Grass Valley's Edius 5.1 BUT the H.264 from the 7D conversion to CanopusHQ. The solution is to use ProCoder.
Sensational. The Chivas 12 Hours party- world class DJs performed all night
The 7D has some drawbacks, particularly in the overheating, audio and power zoom department but solutions exist to counter that. After tonight's experience, will we use the EOS 7D to cover events? Most Def! DSLRs, when properly accessorised become a cinematographer's dream, capturing film quality images even under light-challenged areas.
All's well that ends well. The party was great- the light show on stage was superb, fused with flame bursts and smoke effects. Pitbull's charismatic and energetic performance had the crowd gasping for more. It was non-stop dance music dance music accentuated by R&B, House, Trance and Electro. By the time we were done, it was 3am Sunday and we were almost stone deaf. It was worth it, thank you Chivas!
Photos are courtesy of Ravivarman Vicraman
High Definition Film Making arrives in WolFang Digital
.jpg "Outstanding film making team: Canon EOS 7D + RedrockMicro Cinema kit")
Outstanding film making team: Canon EOS 7D + Redrock Micro Cinema kit. Photo courtesy: Samuel Tan, The Digital Shoebox
It's finally here, High Definition film making is now available in WolFang Digital.
We've been holding out for a long time, waiting for technology to become more advanced. We've also been waiting for just the right combination of equipment to make it to the shelves. We know now is the time to offer HD film making to you, because of the advent of the new DSLR cameras.
Today, we have in our hands the same equipment Lucasfilm and Robert Rodriquez are using for film making. The same kind of equipment used to make Hollywood blockbusters is now available to you: for your corporate films, documentaries, event videos and training videos. Just pause a while to digest all that.
We weren't content with just purchasing a video camera offering straightforward HD. We wanted to give you more. We wanted to give you the coveted 'film look'. The form of creative expression only available to the most advanced and costly equipment. Today, the terms 'cinematic' and the 'film look' is relevant to you because the new range of DSLRs have nailed that technique down.
All set to take on HD video production. Film making courses coming soon!
Today, we have in our hands the same equipment Lucasfilm and Robert Rodriquez are using for film making. The same kind of equipment used to make Hollywood blockbusters is now available to you: for your corporate films, documentaries, event videos and training videos. Just pause a while to digest all that.
We believe we are one of the first, if not the only, video production studio in the country to have acquired this state-of-the-art equipment in such a complete form.
Now, we present to you the newest addition to WolFang Digital's film making repertoire, the very latest HD DSLR from Canon, the EOS 7D. Do a search on the internet and you'll soon discover the glowing reputation of the EOS 7D. The EOS 7D is the heart of our HD film making setup.
.jpg "At the heart of our HD DSLR setup: the Canon EOS 7D")
At the heart of our HD DSLR setup: the Canon EOS 7D. Photo courtesy: Samuel Tan, The Digital Shoebox
The EOS 7D alone isn't enough to produce great looking images. It needs solid support both ergonomically and technically. They came from Texas, USA. We've purchased RedRock Micro's premium offering, the DSLR Cinema Bundle and DSLR Field Kit. This range of DLSR support accessories turns the EOS 7D into a film making marvel with all the trappings. This modular assembly lets us convert our EOS 7D from a tripod-bound camera into a shoulder-mounted beauty in minutes!
We believe we are one of the first, if not the only, video production studio in the country to have acquired this state-of-the-art equipment in such a complete form.
Today onwards marks the start of a new journey for WolFang Digital as we work with you to produce stunning, high quality images for your corporate videos, product videos, event videos and training videos. In the following months, we will also upgrade our training course and commence our HD DLSR film making course for enthusiasts, students, hobbyist and even profesionals. Indeed, exciting times ahead for us and our clients 
DSLR videography: I prefer a Video Camera anyday
It's all the rage nowadays, DSLRs have become known as 'combocams'. The ability to shoot both pictures and videos has blurred the lines between photography and videography.
The DSLR attempts to become a video camera
...these DSLRs still can’t replace proper video cameras. They are great tools to have, great for certain situations, but the ergonomics, the audio recording, the very poor sensor wobble, the lack of basic video camera things like headphone jack, ND filters, XLR inputs all make these hybrid cameras additions, rather than replacements for proper video cameras.
Philip Bloom
D.P, Director, Filmmaker
Photographers are now considering becoming videographers and vise versa. Trainees and students are asking if DSLRs are any good at shooting good videos. One trainee even asked if he should get a DSLR to start his career as a videographer, since DSLRs are cheaper.
The excellent Sony EX3 XDCAM HD video camera in all its glory
So, are DSLRs any good at shooting good quality videos? My answer is, YES, as so many examples on the internet have shown, today's DSLRs shoot very good videos. But does it mean a DSLR can handle today's videography challenges? Unless you're willing to spend more money on upgrades and accessories for your DSLR so that it works like a video camera, my answer is... NO
Here's looking at you, babe! Canon's XLH1
This post is about my personal opinon but find out what famous film maker Philip Bloom has to say here: Video DSLRs, the death of 35mm Adaptors?
I don't want to take sides in this matter but I feel I should voice my personal opinion. Photography and Videography are two very different art forms although they share some fundamental principles. Photography and Videography are two very different art forms although they share some fundamental principles. The way a videographer stands, the way he holds his equipment, how he exposes his subjects are quite different from how a photographer would handle the same challenges. Therefore the videographer's equipment is distinctly different from the photographer's.
A shotgun microphone, an essential accessory in video production
By being a good photographer, it does not necessarily mean one is automatically a good videographer just because his equipment shoots videos as well. Just ponder on this: Photographers need just that 1 crucial frame while videographers need at least 5 seconds of a scene to make his footage usable. That 5 seconds is already 125 frames (PAL frame rate is 25 frames per second). Then what about sound? The videographer has to manage audio recording as well.
Photography and Videography are two very different art forms although they share some fundamental principles. The way a videographer stands, the way he holds his equipment, how he exposes his subjects are quite different from how a photographer would handle the same challenges. Therefore the videographer's equipment is distinctly different from the photographer's.
An accessory for the DSLR- so your DSLR feels like a video camera
It's all fine when you use a DSLR to shoot sceneries and even short films but when it comes to go time, I doubt a DSLR can handle the rigours of Event Videography and even Corporate Documentaries: when recording good quality audio, when smooth focus pulls matters, as do changing shutter, aperture, Gain and Audio Levels on the fly...
The Azden FMX-32250 sound mixer- another accessory for the DSLR
Before unpacking that DSLR to shoot videos, consider why a video camera is more suitable for... well, shooting videos:
1) Sound Recording Quality is better
Video Cameras come with a built-in shotgun microphone but videographers have the option of easily attaching another specialised microphone which connects to the video camera through XLR inputs (Balanced Audio). Shooting interviews is a breeze- by attaching a wireless mic onto the subject and a wireless receiver onto the video camera. Sound levels are maintained on the video camera through the VU Level dials.
As opposed with using the DSLR, you have to purchase a Field Mixer just to record good quality audio. You need an assistant to operate the Field Mixer. Even the 5D Mk II has very poor audio features.
2) Ability to Swivel Viewfinder/LCD
All video cameras allow you to pivot your viewfinder or LCD so if you're shooting at low angles or if you suspend your video camera overhead, you can still see what you're shooting. You simply swivel your viewfinder towards your eyes.
At this moment, only the Lumix GH1 has a LCD display that can pivot.
3) Power Zoom is easier
Video camera lenses are made for Power Zooms. The ability to zoom in/out at high speed and doing it smoothly is a feat meant for video cameras.
DSLR lenses are too stiff for this move.
4) Shift Focus is smoother
This expressive and creative technique involves rotating the focus ring so that it shifts focus distance from 1 subject in the foreground to another in the background is best down with a video camera because a video camera's lenses are made for this. The rubberised grip has very little friction allowing for a smooth shift focus maneuver.
DSLR focus rings are stiff making this move difficult to achieve without locking the DSLR onto a tripod.
5) Ergonomics
Video camera bodies are made in a way that lets the videographer shoot stable hand-held videos. The semi-shoulder and shoulder mount video cameras like the Sony EX3 provide a comfortable body for videographers to cradle. DSLRs are made to snap that 1 crucial frame and are therefore not meant for hand-held video recording. The technology has prepared it for videos but the DSLR body remains the same.
Now consider why a DSLR is unsuitable for video projects:
6) Unable to record long format video
Recording a speech or a performance means shooting for long periods of time. Even the great 5D MkII shoots in 12 minute segments, making prolonged video recording impossible.
7) No headphone jack for Audio Monitoring
Can't hear what you're recording is always a a bad thing. Since you can't attach a headphone to the DSLR, you won't know the clarity of your recording until after you've done the interview. Not good.
8 ) Inability to control Shutter Speed
While The 5D Mk II lets you control your aperture with the right lenses, it does not allow seperate control of Shutter Speed. This severely hampers creative expression.
9) Rolling Shutter
Ah yes, the infamous rolling shutter effect. Unfortunately, this is an effect we don't want... ever! CMOS chips don't take rapid motion very well. Your videos will have a 'wobbly' look when doing pans and tilts or if the subjects move acorss your lens.
10) No Autofocus during record
While this is not a big deal to us videographers, it also highlights an issue with DSLRs trying to become video cameras. At this moment, DSLRs cannot autofocus when recording.
A word of advice to those who want to start their career as videographers: get a video camera, practice on a video camera and love your video camera
The DSLR is still great for the hobbyist or amateur or even the vacationer who wants a device to capture both high quality images as well as HD video. But for me, as a professional videographer and editor, I insist on a video camera for video projects.
More on DSLR vs Video Camera here:
DSLR Video: Is this the end of the camcorder as we know it?
Unable to record long format video
No headphone jack for
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