My First Ever Underwater Video !

[TheBigPhillyFish]

Well I just threw some little video clips together. I just used the movie maker in windows xp, added some music and a few fancy things. All the video clips were from my DC 800, so they were not so great. But then again, it was the first time I had it in the water. So I have made some changes, and learned a little more about the camera. And I will be diving in 2 weeks again. So I can test out the changes, and do some more video.

I know its not all that great, but its a start. And I have never edited a video before, and the movie maker software is as basic as they come. So enjoy!



[vimeo]3316837[/vimeo]

 

[robint]

so have you decided not to buy the camcorder video rig?

You didn't ask, but I thought I would give you a couple of tips to making interesting videos...
1. get closer, especially when subjects are small
2. edit clips down to less than 15 seconds. Your viewer has a short attention span and watching more than that has to be very very special - like sharks mating or giving birth.
3. try to keep the camera/camcorder as steady as possible, and when panning do it sloooooww, otherwise you will make the viewer seasick
4. edit, edit, edit........ short and sweet is better than long and repetitive
5. watch other people's videos and try to pick up ideas and techniques. Several people here on SB have excellent videos posted on Vimeo and on other websites. I am always inspired by those guys to work harder and edit more.
6. buy a good editing program and learn all the functions, like color correction especially
7. tell a story - try to make your videos have a beginning, middle and ending

robin

 

[mobula]

A few additions to robin:

Use royalty-free music, use a wideangle and think about a red filter or lamps. Change your views. Beside vimeo you find underwater videos on www.marinevideu.eu.

 

[TheBigPhillyFish]

so have you decided not to buy the camcorder video rig?


robin

No Robin, I already had the DC 800. That is why I want the HD video rig. I had such a blast doing video. And I know the DC 800 has its limit. So I wanted to get myself a nice video set-up.

Just a little background on the video's. This was my first time taking video, so I know there is a lot of things I need to learn. Plus all these were taken shortly after my OW cert. So experience definately played a factor. But I am learning. And I as I said I know the DC 800 has limitations, especially in video mode.

And Thank You for the tips, I need them all.

 

[robint]

No Robin, I already had the DC 800. That is why I want the HD video rig. I had such a blast doing video. And I know the DC 800 has its limit. So I wanted to get myself a nice video set-up.

Just a little background on the video's. This was my first time taking video, so I know there is a lot of things I need to learn. Plus all these were taken shortly after my OW cert. So experience definately played a factor. But I am learning. And I as I said I know the DC 800 has limitations, especially in video mode.

And Thank You for the tips, I need them all.

you're welcome! I knew you already had the DC800 and figured since you are asking about the HD systems, you would like to start learning what most of us here chat about. There are lots of videos out there, some good, some horrible, and a few great ones. Just thought I would share with you what I have learned from the people who make the great ones. I have been asking questions, posting my video attempts, and taking notes for several years now. I suggest you do the same when you get your setup. I have improved dramatically over the years but I still have a long way to go. Now if I could just win lotto and buy that HD setup!

robin

 

[TheBigPhillyFish]

Now if I could just win lotto and buy that HD setup!

robin

So if you came into a few bucks from the lotto. What HD video set-up would you get? What is your dream set-up? What is your feasible set-up?

 

[robint]

So if you came into a few bucks from the lotto. What HD video set-up would you get? What is your dream set-up? What is your feasible set-up?

If I had the extra $$ I would go with the Sony SR12 or HC9 and Ikelite housing, or one of the new Sonys that just came out with the Ikelite housing (total cost $2000-2500). I have zero need for a pro system or even an electronic housing, I would rather spend the $$$ on dive trips with my spouse/buddy. I make videos for fun. There are waaaaay too many places I want to dive...... and I am a diver first, a videographer/photographer second.

robin