Cameras are only the first place you start to sink your money when you want to dip your toes in shooting video. It’s probably one of the harder and more expensive choices too. That is far from the end, however, as most new filmmakers will realize that there are tons of optional and not so optional accessories that you’ll want to create an ideal rig. Building out a perfect kit is also part of the appeal of some cameras.
A good example of this is the Blackmagic Pocket 6K Pro, which is a relatively compact and powerful cinema camera that comes into its own when you start adding some key accessories. It does mean there is a built-in cost on top of the initial purchase and if you want an idea of what that cost is you should check out this video by Goldwulf.
This particular example is targeting newcomers you need some essential pieces to get going and working properly for your average user. It also tries to keep costs down.
Big caveat! This config goes against Blackmagic’s recommendation and mounts a top handle to the top where the camera may not have the perfect support to handle the stress. Keep that in mind.
For this kit there are some key accessories:
- Lens
- Extra batteries and charger
- Memory cards and reader
- Mounting system (tripod)
- Audio
Lenses are quite easy to find thanks to the use of the Canon EF mount and Super 35mm sensor. The recommendation is the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art Lens. For the money, this combination of focal length and aperture is unbeatable. It’s relatively fast while still providing a very versatile range for people who might only be wanting to use a single lens.
Right now this will run about $700.
For power, the easiest solution is to go with a pair of Blackmagic NP-F series batteries. You can be guaranteed that these will work and they happen to have slightly larger capacities than average at 3500mAh. This means longer runtimes. Each one will cost $55. Buying two – for a total of three – will get you about three hours of shooting.
Pick up an affordable Neewer Dual Channel LCD Battery Charger. At $30 it’s a good deal.
Storage actually has tons of options. There’s the internal CFast 2.0 slot and UHS-II SD slot. The best bet is actually to use the USB external drive option. You’ll get more space for the money. If you do will want to use cards, the AngelBirds and ProGrades are great. They will just cost a lot more.
To keep costs down the Samsung T5 1TB SSD will run around $130. You will need a mounting system and SSD mount. SmallRig nails the budget options and for under $100 you can get a cold shoe top handle and SSD bracket.
You will need a good tripod. Spend the money upfront because it’ll last a good long while if you take care of it. You will get your money out of it. Invest in something that will hold a bare minimum of 8 lb and even more is obviously better. A middle ground pick is the Manfrotto 502AH Video Head with MT055XPRO3 Aluminum Tripod. It’ll run around $400 and has all the essentials.
Finally, for audio, you should pick up the Rode Wireless GO. It’s easy to use, small, wireless, and it’s good! It has a built-in mic for instant use, though it is recommended to grab a lav, like the Rode SmartLav+, for even cleaner recording.
Final price? Around $4,200 before taxes. That is a solid yet affordable kit that will get beginners most of what they need.
Any recommendations for next purchases after these items?
[source: Goldwulf]
Order Links:
- Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro (B&H, Amazon, Adorama)
- Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art Lens for Canon EF (B&H, Amazon, Adorama)
- Blackmagic Design NP-F570 3500mAh Battery Pack (B&H, Adorama)
- Neewer Dual-Channel LCD Battery Charger (Amazon)
- Samsung T5 1TB Portable SSD (B&H, Amazon, Adorama)
- SmallRig Cold Shoe Mount Top Handle (B&H, Adorama)
- SmallRig Samsung T5 SSD Mount v2 for BMPCC (B&H, Amazon)
- Manfrotto 502AH Video Head with MT055XPRO3 Aluminum Tripod (B&H, Amazon, Adorama)
- Rode Wireless GO (B&H, Amazon, Adorama)
- Rode SmartLav+ (B&H, Amazon, Adorama)
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate partner and participant in B&H and Adorama Affiliate programmes, we earn a small comission from each purchase made through the affiliate links listed above at no additional cost to you.
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