Canon 5D for Video

This is the first of many attempts to shed light on the use of the Canon 5D MkII for video. While there is no denying that this camera creates extraordinary still files, at ISOs as high as 6400 (many say higher), we are trying to outfit the camera with a few light accessories that will make it usable for video.

There are a few companies making accessories for the 5D that make it look as bulky as a 35mm Panavision camera. Since we will be traveling in South America, often by bus, we are looking for a few things that will be effective. We have no intention of spending up to $2000 and ending up with something more bulky than an HD video camera.

We have purchased a Hoodman loupe ($79) that is supposed to help with focusing. It is supposed to be helpful for outdoor use, when bright light will make critical focus difficult. The loupe fits against the Live View screen.

After some field testing, we have decided that the loupe isn't very helpful. I think it is just as easy to use the Live View screen for focusing and composing.

We will also use a tripod when possible. We purchased a lightweight, simple Manfotto fluid head to go on our regular tripod (128 RC Micro Fluid Head $90). We have also purchased a small Manfrotto monopod (Manfrotto by Bogen Imaging MA790B Modo Mono 5-Section Monopod) $32. We will can mount a regular ball head on the monopod and place the monopod into a LowePro F&S belt which has loops to hold accessory bags that will contain sound equipment. We can then simulate a steady cam apparatus without the bulk and expense of one.

After receiving advice from Nathan at Havey Productions and from Dave Barry, we have decided to bypass recording audio with the 5D and will use our shotgun mic and wireless lavalier on an Olympus Digital Recorder. We'll sync the audio with the video in post.

More details next week. I'll look forward to answering any questions.

posted by Michael S. Lewis at 11:26 AM