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"Video Gift Guide 2007"
by Perry Lawrence
Here is my annual list of video gifts for friends, family, Uncle Joe or yourself (tax deductible?) Some of these are very affordable and some you may want to ask your friends to pool their gift resources. Whatever you get, and whoever you give it to, please enjoy the season.
First, you need good audio. For the easiest and most affordable in wired lavaliere mics, look no further than RadioShack and their $25 Electret Clip on Mic. This little gem makes a fantastic stocking stuffer. You ALWAYS need one of these in your kit just in case you left your main mic at home or your batteries go bad.
Every videographer needs a good wireless lavaliere in his production bag. The Sony WCS 999 is an acceptable entry level mic. It will do a great job at small distances and keep you "cord free" It can't compete with $400 systems but it is a good back up.
To give your videographer a BIG grin, get them the RØDE Video Mic. The shotgun wonder is a great mic for quick close up interviews in run-and-gun situations. They will love this! $149 at sweetwater.com
Next, you need some lights. Look no further than the fluorescent softbox three-light kit at AskMrVideo.com! Comes with everything you need for $375.99 (members pay only $359.99). I use these. Get them here.
Now what about a tripod - got to have a stabalizing system. I have fun with the Gorillapod by Joby.com Many uses and makes a great gift.
For more serious stability, take a look at the Libec TH-M20. A 2-stage tripod with fluid head on a ball mount for smooth movements and easy leveling. I used this when I went to China - Very light. On sale now for $179.95 at B&H.
Finally, you may need a new camera! I suggest checking out the Canon HV20 and the Sony HC7. These two cameras are below $1000 and shoot both MiniDV and HDV to tape.
I can't stop here... there are SO many cool tools out there you should check out. Here is what I have my eye on:
Zoom H2 is a portable field recorder for under $200. It records in stereo using built in mics or by pluging in your lav or wireless set. This resords directly to SD cards!
The new hotness - Pure Digital BLACK Flip. 'nough said!
HDTV on your laptop? $89.95? I kid you not. WinTV!
Green Screen Backdrop system from ImageWest. Only $189.
And for a complete studio in a box, the NewTek Tricaster. HD, Virtual sets, DVR, and more.
And, for the videographer who has everything, the Red One.
Now to email this to my wife and friends! You can too by clicking on the link below.
Emailing it to a friend is easy. Just click below!
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