Video equipment can come in all shapes and sizes. It can also come in all variety of prices. The following is a short list of video cameras, audio equipment, lighting, and mobile recording devices.
Video Cameras
Three types of video recording devices that can be used on staff and that are affordable are the following:
1. Video Camcorders can record in full HD now and most have audio inputs. The majority of these camcorders record on SD cards, which makes it easy to upload footage to computers. Make sure the camera has a microphone input because on-board microphones will not record the audio quality you desire.
2. Professional Camcorders can record in full HD and offer more ability to zoom, and pan and tilt. These camcorders are larger in size and have a broader range of function in recording video. Audio inputs are usually formatted for XLR cables rather than your smaller stereo input. The audio recording ability has a larger functionality as well with controls generally on the camera to adjust levels. These cameras are also more expensive. The range in price is $1,400 to as much as $50,000.
3. DSLR Cameras can record in full HD and are being used more and more by video journalists. Traditionally used for still photography, filmmakers are turning more and more to the DSLR due to the quality of video, ability to change high quality lens, and their portability. These camera are very affordable compared to the professional camcorders. The price range goes from $500 to $5,000 generally. The cost goes up when you factor in the quality of the lens.
AUDIO
1. Lavalier Microphones that plug directly into stereo inputs are a must have for staffs. They help with the recording of voices in interviews. Lavalier microphones can be bought for about $20 -$200 and they require a small battery for power. Wireless lavaliers offer more flexibility with movement but cost almost twice as much due to the need for a receiver.
2. Handheld Microphones can be plugged directly into a stereo input on a camcorder or DSLR camera with an adapter. Most handheld microphones have an XLR output cable. See the link on handheld microphones in the audio section. These microphones often reduce the background noise and also come in wireless versions.
3. Shotgun Microphones can be attached to cameras and record sound in an area. Shotgun microphones are good for interviews on the fly and whenever you do not have the ability to get a microphone on your source. Shotgun microphones can cost $100 – $500.
Lighting
Studio lighting and remote lighting can differ in size and portability. Refer to the lighting section of this site for more information on 3 point lighting. If you are looking for some great lights for on location interviews consider LED kits with battery power. Also think about smaller on camera lights. These two types of lighting setups cost bewteen $100 and $1,000 depending on the brightness of the light.
Mobile Recording
Staffs are turning more and more to their handheld smartphones and tablets for recording video. In most cases all that is required is an adapter to hook these items up to a tri-pod. Also there are several adapters made for tablets to make microphones fit the headphones jack. Mobile recording is very effective for posting videos to the web and to producing longer stories as well.
Broadcast Staff Manual For The Scholastic Press 