multi-topic questions...

[slegare]

Hey all –

I've been perusing the forums for quite some time and I'm doing my best to learn as quickly as possible before two separate trips this spring.

I have looked at the travel threads, the software threads, etc, but I'm still (sadly) confused. All the questions seem to affect one another, so I'm not sure where I should have posted this - I sincerely apologise if this is not the appropriate area.

A riddle:

•I am on a budget

•I have a naked HV30 and FCE4 (so far)

•My first trip is to Costa Rica, where I'll be doing a lot of hiking, nature walks, etc (I've been warned of condensation already, but could use more tips).

•In my second trip, from Denver to Las Vegas, I want to play (and film) as many disc golf courses as possible (some action, but not a lot), and to get some nice footage of all the national parks (Zion, Grand Canyon, etc).

•I would like to have some versatility with the final output. Ultimately I want to make DVD’s to share with the people I’m going on the trips with, but I would love to be able to share random clips with them while the project is still en route (via vimeo).

•I like the idea of 24p but ultimately just want the best product given a budget.

So, what would be the best combination of shooting mode/NLE for my situation?

I've realized that FCE it doesn't support 24p. I could keep FCE4 and get CineSCENE (but which product?), but then I wonder if 24p is even the best option for my trips (for either?) Should I get a different NLE and shoot in 24p for one or both trips or is FCE good enough to learn the basics as long as I have Cinescene? How practical is cinescene as a product regardless? Would either 60i or 30p be more appropriate for my trips anyway?

[CycleWriter]

Since your post primarily involves software I have moved it to the Mac forum.

You're asking about two different things here. First is what software to use and second is what shooting modes to use. I'm on a PC, so I can't help you with software, but as far as shooting mode you need to consider what it is you want to achieve with your video.

Is the purpose of your filming to document your travels to show friends and family? Then you have no need for shooting in 24P. That mode is specific to wanting to achieve a certain look and doesn't really lend itself to impromptu filming like most people do when traveling. It also won't give you the kind of smooth video you'll enjoy watching once back at home. Then there is the extra effort required to process it properly. Since much of what you'll be shooting you'll have little to no control over, things could get pretty ugly in that mode. Fast moving vehicles, crowds of people, quick pans...these are all things not handled well in 24P if you aren't careful.

If you want the best video to document your travels I would acquaint myself with all the preset shooting modes available in Program mode. Know what they do and when they are applicable to a certain situation. And know how to use Av and Tv modes properly. Shoot in standard HDV so you get the best possible video. Travel video like this isn't as much about creating art as it is about documenting the trip.

[slegare]

Thanks for moving the thread to the appropriate spot and for the quick response.
I'm so new (and excited to get my feet wet) I guess I still consider it all art. I will plan on sticking to the preset shooting modes - can these all be integrated together seemlessly?

Would anyone with a mac not mind chiming in on the software side of things in the context of my situation?

Thanks CycleWriter, and thanks in advance to anyone else who helps.

[CycleWriter]

I will plan on sticking to the preset shooting modes - can these all be integrated together seemlessly?

So long as you use a mode or settings appropriate to the scene, you should have no problem. Make sure you understand how things like shutter speed and aperture affect your video. This is basic photography 101 and unless you have that minimum understanding you will probably be better off shooting in AUTO mode.

Thanks CycleWriter, and thanks in advance to anyone else who helps.

See, I'm not always a meanie.