Video & Camera Equipment

A Good First Semi Pro Camera ?? – Need Help?

Im currently at college (U.K) studying Film,Media,Photography and Drama and want to follow through to uni next year (A Film College Stateside) but want a Camera that will suitable for both in college and external projects!

i have a budget of around £1500 which is $2442.6 and would like a nice Semi Pro Camera that will last me years to come!

Im genuinely serious about the whole filmmaking stuff (Im pretty screwed in life if i don;t go that way now due to my subjects im taking), I have recently purchased a Macbook Pro and Final Cut Studio to go on it along with a Tripod, Monopod and a Cannon SLR so i can Location Spot etc.

Yeah, im really keen i know

So anyone know any good camera’s ?

Canon HV40. Consumer grade, but pro-grade miniDV tape, 24p/30p and 1080i video capture. Also the least expensive camcorder with a mic jack and manual audio control. The 1/8″ (3.5mm) stereo audio in jack can be augmented with a XLR adapter like those from juicedLink or BeachTeck in order to use mics using XLR connectors. Suggest either the DXA-6 or CX231 – they can provide phantom power.

Sony HVR-HD1000 is a shoulder mount DV/HDV camcorder. While it is in the Sony Pro line, the lens size, single imaging chip and 1/8″ (3.5mm) audio-in jack put it in the “prosumer” category – in my book. Add the XLR adapter here, too. Standard def DV or high def HDV recording capable.

Sony HVR-A1 is a handheld DV/HDV camcorder. While it is in the Sony Pro line, the lens size and single imaging chip put it in the “prosumer” category – in my book. It comes with XLR audio connections. Standard def DV or high def HDV recording capable.

Canon GL2 is a mid-sized camcorder. In the Canon Pro line, it has a good lens size and imaging chip system – 1/8″ (3.5mm) audio-in jack put it in the “prosumer” category – in my book. Add the XLR adapter here, too. It can do standard definition video only.

Sony HDR-FX7 has a good lens size and imaging chip system – 1/8″ (3.5mm) audio-in jack put it in the “prosumer” category – in my book. It’s pro sibling is the HVR-V1. Add the XLR adapter here, too. Standard def DV or high def HDV recording capable.

The the jump to the Sony HDR-FX1000… and offerings from Panasonic, JVC and Canon that are outside your budget.

Vanguard Alta Pro Series Tripods

SureFire G2X Pro Dual Output LED Flashlight, Maximum 200 Lumens – Black $66.50 The compact Surefire G2X Pro Dual-Output LED Flashlight uses a high-efficiency LED that is virtually immune to failure since it does not have a filament to burn out or break. The Nitrolon polymer body is sculpted for a smooth, comfortable and secure grip and is tough enough to resist scratches, abrasion and corrosion. U.S.A. Overall Length (in.): 5 1/4, Bulb Type: LED, Bulbs (qty.): 1, Light Outp…

Gerber 30-000419 Steady Tripod Multi-Tool $39.00 Steady Tool30-000419Built for the weekend adventurer the Gerber Steady bines the utility of a multi-tool and the functionality of a camera tripod. It es equipped with an adjustable cell phone and screw-in camera mount and two foldable legs that serve as a tripod. The rest of the tool is all Gerber ingenuity – a fine edge blade a serrated blade three screwdrivers a bottle opener pliers and wire cut…

Logan Pro-Framing F300-2 Pro Joiner $203.22 Much faster than the Studio Joiner, the Pro Joiner drives 2 nails at a time into hard or soft woods and is ideal for production joining of duplicate frames using the same moulding size. Extremely precise and versatile, yet compact and economical, while producing professional results. Heavy-duty professional style joiner for precise corner joints. Features include: Patented V-nail alignment pinsDri…

Falcon Disinfecting Phone Wipes, 50 ct. Tub (DDFT) $5.95 Falcon Dust-off Disinfecting Phone Wipes (50ct).Ideal for phones and all other office equipment including fax machines and keyboards. Helps promote a healthy workplace. Features a fresh lemon scent. Wipe Size (6″x6 3/8″)…

Falcon Exponent Dust-Off Screen Shammy MCSS $2.97 Falcon Dust-Off Screen Shammy MCSS Cleaning Kits…

Carson Handheld 3x Magnifier $2.99 The JS-40 Handheld Magnifier from Carson Optical is a 3″ diameter compact, easy to use 2.5x power Magnifier for home, school or office. Its crystal clear acrylic lens gives you a sharp distortion-free view. The Handheld Magnifier has a 6x power bifocal lens, which allows you to see even the finest details with ease. This Magnifier is a great low vision aid and assists in reading small print. At on…

Shoot Great Video with your Canon DSLR Camera (DVD) $29.99 REGION FREE DVD developed for new to intermediate photographers buying their first DSLR cameraIntended for the still photographer moving into video; learn skills and secrets to producing great videoCreates a solid understanding of the camera’s features and controls and helps to unleash its potentialSample subjects are: shutter priority aperture priority/depth of field focus alternatives metering a…

Lowepro Fastpack 350 Camera/Laptop Backpack Go all day with the lightweight, comfortable Fastpack 350 backpack. It protects your pro digital SLR and 17 widescreen notebook compactly while providing generous storage for other gear. Side-entry compartments let you quickly grab equipment and accessories, even while you’re on the move. Customize the easy-to-access main compartment with adjustable dividers. Capacity for 1 pro digital SLR with…

Lowepro Pro Runner x350 AW Rolling Camera Backpack The Pro Runner x350 and x450 AW DSLR rolling backpacks delivers a convertible, streamlined and urban-inspired solution for pro photographers and photojournalists who carry their gear through crowded airports and busy city streets. It’s purpose built for superior protection and maximum flexibility as photographers work and travel….

Vanguard SB-100 Stone Bag $11.69 Polyester…

Polaroid Pro Carbon Fiber 65 Tripod $139.99 Keep your camera steady while shooting with this Polaroid Pro Carbon Fiber PLTRIC tripod that features an adjustable height up to 65″ for optimal camera placement. Retractable spikes ensure stability with minimal scratching and scuffing of surfaces.

Polaroid Pro Carbon Fiber 75 Tripod $189.99 Steady your camera with this Polaroid Pro Carbon Fiber PLTRIC75 tripod that features an adjustable height up to 75″ for optimal camera placement and coated retractable spikes for enhanced stability with minimal scratching and scuffing of surfaces.

VIVITAR 49.9IN PRO TRIPOD $18.99 VIVITAR 49.9IN PRO TRIPOD

ALTA PRO 283CT Tripod $329 Alta Pro tripods have unmatched flexibility, stability and enabling more angle possibilities than ever before. Its innovative Multi-Angle Central Column (MACC) System allows users to move the central column from zero to 180-degree angles in variable vertical and horizontal positions making macro-photography and special wide-angle shots a breeze. The Instant Swivel Stop-n-Lock (ISSL) System securely repositions the central column in one simple movement, in just a few seconds, while maintaining the tripod’s stability. Other features include advanced camera vibration and shock control, legs that adjust to 25, 50 and 80-degree angles, quarter-twist leg locks, patented premium magnesium die-cast canopy and head, hexagon-shaped central column for extra stability, and non-slip, spiked rubber feet for changing terrains and a removable hook for hanging camera accessories. Alta Pro 283CT is carbon fiber and has quarter-twist leg locks.

Sunpak PRO 723BX 695 Tripod $304.99 Ensure your camera remains stable during important photo captures with this tripod that features a built-in bubble level for precise shooting. The 3-position adjustable leg angle allows customizable use.

Vivitar VIVVPT2650 49.9Series 1 Pro Tripod $34.62 49.2 Tripod. Collapses to 19.7 long for easy portability and storage. 3way pan head allows you to aim your attached camera any direction you choose once attached. Geared elevated center column adds further stability. Leg locks. Bubble level.

ALTA PRO 264 AT Full Size Tripod – No Head $159 Alta Pro tripods have unmatched flexibility, stability and enabling more angle possibilities than ever before. Its innovative Multi-Angle Central Column (MACC) System allows users to move the central column from zero to 180-degree angles in variable vertical and horizontal positions making macro-photography and special wide-angle shots a breeze. The Instant Swivel Stop-n-Lock (ISSL) System securely repositions the central column in one simple movement, in just a few seconds, while maintaining the tripod’s stability. Other features include advanced camera vibration and shock control, legs that adjust to 25, 50 and 80-degree angles, patented premium magnesium die-cast canopy and head, hexagon-shaped central column for extra stability, and non-slip, spiked rubber feet for changing terrains and a removable hook for hanging camera accessories. Alta Pro 264AT is aluminum alloy and has quick-flip leg locks.

ALTA PRO 284CT Carbon Fiber Tripod $369.95 The Alta Pro tripods from Vanguard have unmatched flexibility, stability and enabling more angle possibilities than ever before. Its innovative Multi-Angle Central Column (MACC) System allows users to move the central column from zero to 130-degree angles in variable vertical and horizontal positions making macro-photography and special wide-angle shots a breeze.The Instant Swivel Stop-n-Lock (ISSL) System securely repositions the central column in one simple movement, in just a few seconds, while maintaining the tripod’s stability. Other features include advanced camera vibration and shock control, legs that adjust to 25, 50 and 80-degree angles, quarter-twist leg locks, patented premium magnesium die-cast canopy and head, hexagon-shaped central column for extra stability and non-slip, spiked rubber feet for changing terrains and a removable hook for hanging camera accessories. Alta Pro 284CT is carbon fiber and has quarter-twist leg locks.

Vivitar VIVVPT9675 74.8Pro Tripod $56.56 Retracts To 29.3 Long Making It Simple For Travel Or Storage. 3Way Panning Head Has A Quick Release Feature That Allows User To Remove Your Camera Quickly. Direct The Lens In Whatever Direction You Choose With No Repositioning Needed. Geared And Raised Center Column Provides Further Stability. 3Channel Leg Locks. Accessory Hook

Vanguard Pro Bag 80 for Tripod PROBAG80 $36.36 Vanguard Pro Bag 80 for Tripod PROBAG80

Alta Pro 263AT 100 Tripod Legs with SBH-100 QR Ballhead $209 Alta Pro 263AT tripod and SBH 100 ball head are an impressive pair. Alta Pro tripods have unmatched stability and flexibility, enabling more angle possibilities than ever before. Its innovative Multi-Angle Central Column (MACC) System allows users to move the central column from zero to 180-degree angles in variable vertical and horizontal positions making macro-photography and special wide-angle shots a breeze.The Instant Swivel Stop-n-Lock (ISSL) System securely repositions the central column in one simple movement, in just a few seconds, while maintaining the tripod’s stability. Additional tripod features include advanced camera vibration and shock control, aluminum alloy legs that adjust to 25, 50 and 80-degree angles, quick-flip leg locks, patented premium magnesium die-cast canopy, hexagon-shaped central column for extra stability, and non-slip, spiked rubber feet for changing terrains and a removable hook for hanging camera accessories. Its SBH-100 fluid-like ball head rotates 360 degrees and has smooth locking knobs, an outstanding loading capacity and fine-tuning functions.

Alta Pro 253CB 50 Tripod Legs with SBH-50 QR Ballhead $349.99 Award-winning Alta Pro 253CT tripod + Best-selling SBH 50 ball head = A winning combination. Alta Pro tripods have unmatched stability and flexibility, enabling more angle possibilities than ever before. Its innovative Multi-Angle Central Column (MACC) System allows users to move the central column from zero to 180-degree angles in variable vertical and horizontal positions making macro-photography and special wide-angle shots a breeze. The Instant Swivel Stop-n-Lock (ISSL) System securely repositions the central column in one simple movement, in just a few seconds, while maintaining the tripod’s stability. Additional tripod features include advanced camera vibration and shock control, lightweight carbon fiber legs legs that adjust to 25, 50 and 80-degree angles, quarter-twist leg locks, patented premium magnesium die-cast canopy, hexagon-shaped central column for extra stability, and non-slip, spiked rubber feet for changing terrains and a removable hook for hanging camera accessories. Its SBH 50 fluid-like ball head rotates 360 degrees and has smooth locking knobs, an outstanding loading capacity and fine-tuning functions

Alta Pro 283CB 100 Tripod Legs with SBH-100 QR Ballhead $389 By popular demand, we merged our award-winning Alta Pro 283CT tripod with our popular SBH 100 ball head. Alta Pro tripods have unmatched stability and flexibility, enabling more angle possibilities than ever before. Its innovative Multi-Angle Central Column (MACC) System allows users to move the central column from zero to 180-degree angles in variable vertical and horizontal positions making macro-photography and special wide-angle shots a breeze.The Instant Swivel Stop-n-Lock (ISSL) System securely repositions the central column in one simple movement, in just a few seconds, while maintaining the tripod’s stability. Additional tripod features include advanced camera vibration and shock control, lightweight carbon fiber legs legs that adjust to 25, 50 and 80-degree angles, quarter-twist leg locks, patented premium magnesium die-cast canopy, hexagon-shaped central column for extra stability, and non-slip, spiked rubber feet for changing terrains and a removable hook for hanging camera accessories. Its SBH 100 fluid-like ball head rotates 360 degrees and has smooth locking knobs, an outstanding loading capacity and fine-tuning functions.

Sunpak Mini-PRO Plus/B – tripod $33.99 Sunpak Mini-PRO Plus/B – Tripod – floor-standing

PRO BAG 80 – carrying bag for tripod $31.99 Vanguard PRO BAG 80 – Carrying bag for tripod – black orange

Tracker 4 Full Size Pro Tripod $189.95 Tracker 4 was made to hold heavy gear with exceptional durability and stability. The legs can be individually adjusted to 3 different angles for use on uneven ground and low angle shooting. The leg locks are designed to hold heavy equipment. Other features include sturdy hexagon-shaped central column, secure quick-flip leg locks, 3/8” quick shoe for large format equipment, deluxe shoulder strap, foam grips, no-slip, rubber feet, a removable hook for hanging camera accessories and patented premium magnesium die-cast canopy.

Checkpoint 377 R4D2 Tripod Rotatry Base $261.28 The R4D2 is a larger version of the R2D2 which accommodates the 3D Series as well as the 880 Pro Series laser levels and also allows you extended use on any tripod mount (1/220 3/816 5/81 1) most versatile rotary base system fitting the 3D and Pro Series for surface use or tripod mounting. The bottom plate is threaded to accommodate any camera/video or survey tripod. This rotary base system has three adjustable legs and a bullseye vial system allow precision leveling and rotation from any given surface. A brake and tension system converts to micrometer type adjustment from the same thumbscrew. All components are precision machined from billet aluminum aircraft anodized and laser engraved.

TA-N100 Tripod Adapter $36.95 The TA-N100 Tripod Adapter is an attachment for use with the Nikon 1 J1 or V1 digital cameras when a larger lens is attached to the camera and a tripod is being used, so the lens does not come into contact with the tripod head.

5617 Ultra Pro 17 Camera Bag(BLACK) $169.95 The Ultra Pro 17 is ideal for the professional photographer carrying two DSLRs with lenses up to 9″ long attached, 3-4 additional lenses, flashes, accessories and a 15.4″ laptop. This briefcase-style bag holds camera gear in a vertical orientation for a slim profile. The Ultra Pro 17 holds two pro bodies with lenses attached, flashes, as well as the three most popular zoom lens sizes – a wide angle, a standard zoom, and a telephoto zoom (such as most 70-200mm f/2.8 zoom lenses). The foam-padded main compartment protects camera gear, while a rigid plastic platform in the bottom provides shock protection. A separate, completely foam-padded rear pocket with a plastic reinforced bottom protects up to a 15.4″ screen laptop. The Total Coverage Top combines the security of a zipper with the convenience of quick-release buckles and fast-access hook and loop closures. The top also features a Speed Pocket™ for fast access to accessories and personal items. Two ZipDrop™ front pockets feature Windowpane-Mesh™ and paraphernalia pockets to visibly organize accessories. The front pockets also feature Tamrac’s U.S. patented Memory & Battery Management System™ that uses red flags to identify available memory cards and batteries from ones that are used up. A smooth nylon pocket inside the top keeps other accessories secure. The Piggy-Back Pocket™ zips open to allow the bag to be slipped over the handle of rolling luggage. An EasyGrip™ carrying handle with a torsion bar stabilizer strut in the top helps distribute the weight of your equipment. The bag can also be carried with the heavily padded BioCurve™ shoulder strap that features attachment slots for our Strap Accessory System™ (S.A.S.™) products to customize this large pro bag to perfectly fit your needs. A removable M.A.S.™ Rain Cover is included to protect camera gear in extreme weather. When not needed, the Rain Cover can be removed and replaced with another M.A.S.™ accessory, like a water bottle or a lens case. Straps on the front of the bag allow a tripod to be attached and carried.

Full Size Tripod $29.95 4 piece 7-in-1″ kit maximizes use of your point and shoot camera or mini DV camcorder. Carry and Protect your tripod ,camera and accessories with one bag.The camera/tripod Bag can be switched to a camera bag by simply tucking tripod bag behind a Velcro flap. Lightweight aluminum tripod (3lb capacity) with a maximum shooting height of 53″ (when shooting with 3-way pan head), or 59″ when used with included SwitchGrip accessory

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