Video ???
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Since starting my photography journey just over 3 years ago I have been aware of the video dial and buttons on my various cameras, but ignored them. As a total beginner in "serious photography" it was enough to learn aperture, depth of field, white balance etc, without having to worry about video as well. However, after starting a 6 month study sabbatical focussed on digital imaging theory, I found enough time to try out the scary video functions.
At this stage in my journey I simply record video using the P (auto) mode on my OM1 Mk2, which automatically controls the aperture to provide optimal exposure. Although this can be adjusted using the exposure compensation function I have so far let the camera do the work.
Thinking that I was being clever in letting the camera do all the work, I was in for a nasty shock when it came to "developing" the video footage. After reviewing the options, including the open source openshot which I had used previously to play with go pro footage, I came across Davinci Resolve. Although proprietary software its free version is extremely powerful and can do everything that a potential Youtube wannabe could hope for 😊. Its downside, especially for someone with no video editing experience, is that there is a steep learning curve before grasping the underlying concepts on which the software is based. However the learning investment is well worth it given that the scope of the software appears limitless.
Although the vertical nature of meta "reels" and Youtube "shorts" is a real editing pain given that cameras tend to provide "horizontal" footage, their short time duration makes them a great practice ground for a budding editor.
The main problem that I have encountered in obtaining video footage of wildlife is that outside of a 12-40mm F2.8 kit lens I currently do not have a zoom lens in my bag. Prime lenses are fantastic for long range photography but less useful for videography when the subject walks towards you becoming too big for the frame. The solution is to "re-buy" an F2.8 40-150mm lens which are relatively cheap second hand thanks to introduction of the newer 50-100mm F2.8. Thanks to MPB I have just ordered one for less money than I sold my last one for.
The last time that I had the 40-150mm lens I did not have my 1.4 or 2.0 teleconverters so it will be interesting to see how effective they are on a zoom.
