Simple question re: F Stop on camera and Lens

[Brian Broz]

Hi,
Sorry for asking such a simple question (I checked the FAQ) but I'm still a bit confused.
I am planning on renting a Mini-35 soon mated to either an HVX200 or XLH1. I am obviously concerned about seeing the grain on the GG...probably more of a concern in HD than standard def.
Am I correct in that the ideal setting is shoot with the 35mm lens wide open, and the cameras iris at F4 or F5.6 (Not wide open on the cameras iris)?
You'd be amazed how much mis-information is out there (asking a few local camera assistants/operators).
Hence why I'm here. Thanks for any quick tips/suggestions.
Regards,

Brian Broz

[John Colette]

Brian - I have found that the Mini35 soaks up so much light, that to need to often have the camera at 2.6 - 2.8 and the mini 35 at about the same. It shifts a little in direct sun, but it's like a 2.5 stop ND on the image.

The ground glass issue also make the mini 35 work better under 5.6 - that's for sure, however I know a lot of Directors who get their DOP to ND the camera to get the lowest possible DOF - personally I love that look for some types of project.

I find that my rig, with the Z1P likes +6DB of gain to compensate for the loss of light i many instances.

Hope that's helpful [?]

-j

[Eric MacIver]

Generally I've found about 2 stops of light loss with the adapter (less with some cameras), and I always suggest leaving your CAMERA iris wide open (which is 2.8 on the HVX I believe, and n/a on the H1).

Then, if you use T1.3 lenses, I'd suggest going with a setting on the lens of 2.0 - 4.0 for most shots.

If you have any questions, give us a call, especially if you rent from us ;) You're welcome to come in for a camera test if we have the equipment available.