Hi there, I'm new here and I had a few questions about film gear. The reason I'm asking is because I've gotten so many different answers from friends on what sort of equipment I should get and it can get really confusing. I'm sort of a newbie at filmmaking and have invested in some equipment, but I'm not sure it's exactly what I need. I mostly film interviews and other documentary type work and have even traveled to Haiti and Uganda to help with a film crew on a documentary short. I currently have a Canon 7D, Rode NTG2, Zoom H4N, a cheap lavalier mic (definitely want to invest in something better), and that's about it. I'm looking for suggestions on what sort of gear I should purchase next for filming interviews and documentaries. I have a limited budget but I'm realistic and understand that some equipment is very expensive and, if it's something I really need, I'd be ok with spending more. What is the best equipment to travel with? I don't want to get anything too big to take on a plane. What are the best lav mics for interviews? Is a Canon 7D the best camera to use for documentary work? One friend suggested I get something like a Sony EX3 instead. What sort of lighting is both portable and practical for this purpose? Just looking to here some opinions from people who know much more than I do. Thanks!
Documentary film equipment?
- Thread starter jfox2410
- Start date
Hello new dude 
Are you going to be running around? How much time do you have to set up? Conditions?
DSLRs take more time to use and set-up. But if handled well, they can look amazing. DSLRs have superior image quality than cameras like the EX3. If you have time to set-up, and get everything ready, a DSLR will suit you fine. But if you are doing fast, run and gun shooting, a camera like the EX3 is probably a better pick.
By the way, you could save some money getting the XL-H1 instead of getting the EX3.
Are you going to be running around? How much time do you have to set up? Conditions?
DSLRs take more time to use and set-up. But if handled well, they can look amazing. DSLRs have superior image quality than cameras like the EX3. If you have time to set-up, and get everything ready, a DSLR will suit you fine. But if you are doing fast, run and gun shooting, a camera like the EX3 is probably a better pick.
By the way, you could save some money getting the XL-H1 instead of getting the EX3.
Put LOTS of effort into capturing solid sound out in the field; unlike narrative work you don't get a second chance to get it right.
Is the lav going to be hard-wired or wireless; this makes a big difference.
Is the lav going to be hard-wired or wireless; this makes a big difference.