Mike- Thanks for responding. As of now, the only location I have set is in Holopaw, about halfway between Kissimee and Palm Bay on 1-92. As for the rest, it will likely be in Palm Bay, Melbourne, and closer by. I don't have the time to go all over the state looking for locations.

If you are still interested, use the e-mail link below this post, and use PRODUCTION as the subject. I'll e-mail you the rest of the details.

Sorry Keith, but that is a bit away from me. I was hoping it was closer. I just got my driver's license and must really get oriented with highways, intersections, directions in general. lol.

I wish you much luck on your project! Keep us updated and post a clip or something when you finish!

That's ok Michael, I understand. I'll definately post a trailer when I get that far. Thanks :)

I live in San Diego..and I'm pretty new to filming in general and if anyone ever needs a 2nd camera I would be willing to film for free..the expierience is all I'm looking for. I use a Canon GL2.
bkatran@cox.net

Hello,

I am Pepi Singh Khara (producer/director) of "Far from India", feature film that has already had one test screening to 800 people with resounding success (www.frederickfilms.com). As per an audience survey, we are tweaking the film and need a shooter to film one of our lead actors who now lives in the UCLA area of Los Angeles. We'll pay $100 for a 1/3 day's work..... he/she will need to use his/her own Panasonic AG DVX 100 in 24P mode and record "clean" sound into camera (all in a controlled environment). We need this work done asap so please contact me at your earliest convenience.

Pepi Singh Khara
Ph: 301 831 4800
www.frederickfilms.com

I've never done a project requiring professional narration or on-screen talent. Could someone give me a rough idea of what kind of rates I should expect in the Chicago area (or any other large city). I've got a client waiting for an answer, and I admit I was caught off guard by their request (my clients normally use their own staff members for training videos).

THANKS!

Depends! Love those answers, huh?

My son has only worked one job that paid hourly, and I can't remember how much he got paid. His daily rate has never been less than $100. Of course, many others can command much more. Especially if they have to be AFTRA or SAG.

In the meantime, I'll call his agent and ask her.

Use your Yellow Pages, my friend. Call up likely agencies and present your project needs.

It depends upon the talent, the amount of recording, who *you* are with rates widely variable.

Call around and get quotes. My experience is there is no standard rate.

I hope this is the right place to post this...(Chris, let me know)

The Florida Talent Database (non-profit) has recently opened and has several male and female talent listings who are eager to work. Union and non-union talent available.

There is also a board for Audition notices (also free) where you can post your audition notices.

Follow this link: http://linkgen.net/class


Thanks.....

Still looking for someone, folks. Anyone live in the area?

Hey guys I'm shooting a music video here in miami. I'm curious if anyone has had any experience in shoooting with the Glidecam and is willing to help me with some shots. I can never get the damn thing balanced right.

Gerald,

Go to a photo/video store and pick up a two-axis bubble level and attach it with velcro to the slide. I put mine just in front of the monitor. I've seen some recommendations to put one on the top of the unit as well.

That'll help you get started. Then make sure you have about a 2-count drop to the vertical axis when you drop the sled from about a 45° angle. Finally, make the spring arm rest at horizontal or slightly below the horizontal axis.

The most helpful thing for me, though, is to use the bubble level when I'm tweaking the fore and aft adjustment bolts in the top plate.

John:

A bubble level in the side to side axis is a great idea, and standard practice to make sure that the horizon is level. For fore and aft, having the rig set perfectly level may be a hindrance. You can rough it in to eye at the beginning of the day, but ideally one trims it for a given shot to help maintain ideal headroom with a minimum of operator involvement. I would estimate that I trim fore and aft many dozens of times a day.

Thanks, Charles.

I'm glad you corrected me on that because I've been wondering how you'd handle fine-tuning after the first balance of the day...with a Glidecam, that is. Before I head out, I'll put it on the C-stand and do all the balancing...but then if, during the day, I change lenses or go from standard to low mode then back to standard...the balance is off again. So how would you recommend quickly getting back in balance?

I've been wondering about that because I can't imagine people lugging the C-stand out with them. And if I mark the balance point on the Quick Release and try to match it up in the field, it still needs some tweaking to get proper balance...but that's hard to do without the C-stand. I used the two-direction bubble level to help me guesstimate it better...but invariably it's off a bit. How would you recommend?

And when you say you trim fore and aft many dozens of times a day...do you mean compensating with the guiding hand, or actually setting the balance?

Hi,
I know this is sort of a rush, but ...
Am looking for a [equiped] light person during the period for a shoot of a making video for a new product, for a electronic maker. We will be shooting 24Pa on the DVX-100 and will be shooting interviews and meetings.
Please get back to me with which equipment you have and a estimate of the term as well.
Thanks in advance,
Takeshi Fukushima
Camera/Edit
Evolution Cafe

Hi John.

I'm not an expert on Glidecam, having only tried them on at tradeshows. I had to look at the website to understand what mechanism is specifically used for the adjustments to the camera stage. I'm honestly a bit shocked that it appears (correct me if I'm wrong) that you have to use an allen wrench in two places to adjust the fore-and-aft...? Oh boy. No wonder you're not adjusting the balance during the day!

OK, so as far as lugging a C-Stand around, obviously that's a pain; but we do always move the dock around with us, it's never more than a few feet away unless the shot is a 360 degree (and then you have someone take it away and bring it back after cut). I use an American brand Steadicam stand, it's like a heavy duty light stand with castors that make it easy to move around the set. Others use a Magliner cart with a baby spud welded to one end, which lets them move cases as well as the rig at the same time.

The rig should--should!--allow you to make tweaks in fore-and-aft and side-to-side while wearing it. If it is true that you have to loosen the two screws to adjust fore and aft, I would recommend replacing those with thumbscrew-equipped screws (or getting the plastic wing-nut style cap mounts that pressure fit into the hex head). You need to be able to reach over and adjust this easily, with the rig on or off the body. Perhaps this is one of the reasons that the Glidecams are that much less expensive than the Tiffen Steadicams--every Tiffen rig, down to the lowly JR, allows you to adjust the trim while flying, tool-free (this is not necessarily an endorsement for Tiffen).

Anyway, regardless of the rig, it is critical to be able to adjust the balance throughout the day as I indicated. It takes so little for a rig to be knocked out of fine balance, especially with a lightweight DV setup. You need to regularly consult your bubble for side-to-side to make sure that your horizons are consistent, and adjust as needed; and as I alluded to earlier, the fore-and-aft adjustment is actually based on the needs of the shot. If you are following a 6'2" person and you are 5'7", obviously you will need to maintain a certain amount of tilt to keep proper headroom. When you line up the shot with the appropriate distance to the subject, you trim the fore-and-aft so that the rig settles into a natural balance with that headroom. That way you don't have to exert any force to maintain the shot you want, which will result in a smoother move. A radical version of this would be if you had to maintain a 45% tilt down, say if you were following someone's feet. Adjusting the tilt so that it stays at 45% makes the shot a lot easier. Now, if that shot tilts back up to their face, then you need to pick which part of the shot lasts the longest and set the tilt for that part.

So, yes, I am adjusting fore-and-aft physically, many times a day. If you have the opportunity to watch a Steadicam operator on a feature set, you will see a little flurry of fingerwork every time the rig comes off the dock before a take, sometimes right up to the slate or beyond (I've made adjustments even as "action" is being called, knowing there is a dead second or two before the shot becomes good).

Of course, this is facilitated by rigs that are designed to allow this and cost accordingly (Tiffen's high end rig has a motorized stage so that you can actually trim DURING the shot via radio control buttons on the gimbal!). Nevertheless, the concept of trimming before each shot is still valid on any rig, you just have to allow time for it.

Hope this helps...

Hello to you ...Currently based on Nantucket Island MA.. Doing wedding videos...and Local TV.....Originally From England...
with experience of shooting most of London and its occupents
...Would love to get some experience in NY.....I own a XL1S..plus
have all the right sound equipment.......For more info you can mail me at alanjohnburney@hotmail.com.....Or checkout our site
Nantucketeventmedia.com....all the best

Thanks, Charles!

I was wondering about that. So, Steadicams are setup so that balance during the day is much easier. That figures.

With Glidecam, it is a pain to try to deal with the two allen bolts, and really the only way to do it easily and accurately is to take the unit off. Now that I know that it's common practice to lug the C-stand around, I'll have to start doing that. I need to buy a burro, I think. The Magliner cart sounds interesting. Right now, I don't even have a case. So I transport it by hand and backpack. No way can I manage a C-stand too unless I get more organized.

You've got a great idea though...<<thumbscrew-equipped screws (or getting the plastic wing-nut style cap mounts that pressure fit into the hex head)>>...I'll be looking into that. Glidecam...are you listening?

John,

With a light setup such as the V16 and an XL1, I think you would be OK with a mid-duty light stand that can easily be compacted and strapped to your backpack. I'm thinking of the Avenger AVG-A630B, which weighs 5 lbs and will support 20lbs.

I remember you were saying how beat up you were after your initial Lady X shoot--now I get it, you were literally wearing the rig all day!! Putting the thing down between takes is crucial, both mentally and physically. It becomes more obvious when you are flying 75 lbs, but it's deceptive with a light setup as well.

Yep...lugged it around all day without taking it off, except for one brief handheld shot. But I've since learned to at least disconnect the sled and set it on the ground when I can.

The Avenger AVG-A630B looks good...good price, too. Sold! Also, I'll look for the plastic wing-nuts you mentioned. The combination of those two things should make life quite a bit easier.

So when is your DVD coming out? I'm sure there's tons of tips like this you could pass on. Put my name on the order list. (any chance you can add a brief "Glidecam" section for things specific to those users?)

The DVD project is buried deep in my "must get to" pile. And I MUST get to it. I'm planning on keeping it non-rig specific though, which will aid in marketing it through many manufacturers rather than a few.

I should mention that I've not used that Avenger stand specifically, the one thing to be concerned about is the side torque from hanging the rig off the docking bracket, so I would recommend a trial before purchase to make sure the stand doesn't bend...although I used to use an aluminum Beefy Baby stand years ago, and it bent a bit but never broke.

Having a stand on wheels is the BEST, but this would be a start, right?

Hey, i'm wondering if anyone here is from my area (northeast ohio) and is a "professional" photographer, and would be willing to take some nice (kind of scary, but just generally good looking, but dark) photos of this local band, for the cover of their CD? They've had it recorded and done forever now, but they are lazy and the cover art is whats holding them back, and apparently they took some pictures of each other for the cover or something, but I imagine they are terrible since it's just them snapping shots of each other, probably with just ambient lighting or the flash or whatever, so they are probably bad and not suited.

If they let me do it, I plan on borrowing someones 35mm SLR and setuping up my 750w lowel tota light, and maybe some work lights, at some location (probably like a brick wall or something) and have them all pose and just take some shots, and photoshop them to look cool, airbrush them, and all that crap, and I was just wondering if anyone around here is more suited and would be willing to do it for cheap, or possible even free, i'm sure they would buy film and all that crap.

You should definitely try to do it yourself, Alex. Beg or borrow a good camera, or use a crappy one (especially if you are pretty decent in photoshop), because your name will appear on their liner notes forever for the cover art! Plus the experience would be real good. You can shoot it for deferred payment, meaning if they make money or make it big, then you get paid - handsomely!

Go for it. Don't less any opportunity pass you by!

What happened to this site? It's already dead.

I was just curious if anybody knows if it's easy to get a job in editing/videography/motion graphics in Taipei. My girlfriend might be teaching English over there and I wanted to know if i'll be able to find work. I only speak English, I'm not sure if that matters or not. Thanks in advance!

Corey

In Asian countries it's very difficult to much else other than teach English if you don't speak the language. You might try teaching English part-time while looking around for work and freelancing when you can.

Corey,
You can do a job search using the search engine on www.mandy.com

It's a film and tv directory website.

Hello, everyone

I'm getting ready to shoot a feature length comedy/horror film in Santa Rosa, California. I'll be using a GL2 to shoot it. I have my own funding and all the necessary props/locations, but need help in the casting and organizing departments. After that, it'd be someone to help direct or run the cameras. If you love "B" horror films and you're addicted to filmmaking, you'll love this project. Friends have told me it's an easy cult classic. Lots of fun. Anyone's welcome to get involved, but it's probably best if you live right here in Sonoma County, and preferably Santa Rosa. Drop me a message if you're interested.


Roger

Hi Y'all! ...Well thanks in LARGE part to DVInfo.net our business in going gang busters. FAT CAT MEDIA in Raleigh has taken off much faster than in of us were prepared for. So I need crew for several jobs coming up.

If you live in the Raleigh, NC area and have experience with the following areas of production PAAA ...LLEEEAASSE send me your resume! We will need some crew folks as early as mid September.

Please forward resumes to me on-line at:
fatcatmedia@yahoo.com
or
FAT CAT MEDIA
PO Box 845
Cary, NC 27512
(we are currently looking for office space)

Please check out our website so you have an idea of what we do. Please also check our equipment page so you can see what we use.

We will gladly hire you and your gear together as a package (preferred) since you know your gear better than anyone. Here is what we need...

CAMERA OPERATORS with camera packages (Please visit our "Gear" page for details)

VIDEO EDITORS (Mac preferred but PC's OK. We use "iMovie" and "Final Cut Express")

LIGHTING TECH'S preferred with your own package-will rent your gear

PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS: any kind of general production experience is great!

Keith , have you started any shooting yet? Just checking in on your project. Just looking for any news on your production.

Timothy- I'm sorry I haven't gotten back to you yet, but I'm still in that "Hurry up and wait" phase myself. I still have a long list that needs to be taken care of-

1) Legal type advice to keep me from being sued
2) Locations secured... I have one down, a few more left
3) Insurance and permits
4) Costumes
5) Props
6) Talent... I have one interested, 15 vacancies
7) Crew and equipment... Again, I have one interested, still need audio, lighting, etc. I have a GL1 and some wireless lavs, and a shotgun... I need more than that.

As you can see, I have a plate full of stuff to do, and only a little bit is finished... Aside from the rough draft. Still awaiting the thumbs up.

I hear ya! Lots of little details to deal with, nothing is simple. You have a glidecam and PDX 10 if you ask for it.

I will ;)

I'm in Texas. Anyone know of any good places where I can rent a Steadicam JR for a low daily fee? I'm looking at renting for 1-3 days. Thanks.

Trying to hook up with anyone in the Miami/Fort Lauderdale area that shoots with an XL1 or XL1s with XLR connections and tripod.

If interested, please contact me at:
jay[at]gooddogproductions[dot]com

Thanks!

Trying to hook up with anyone in the Miami/Fort Lauderdale area that shoots with an XL1 or XL1s with XLR connections and tripod.

If interested, please contact me at:
jay[at]gooddogproductions[dot]com

Thanks!

I'm sure you would rather a professional model for your project, but have you looked into building one of these "Poor Mans Steady-cams" out there?

I built this one ( at http://www.student.virginia.edu/~fms-uva/steadycam/ ) and am surprised how well it works every time I use it.

Simple, cheap ($10-$14) , easy to make (15 minutes), and very effective.

MS

My buddy and I have been doing Still photography and video in the martial arts industry for years and we want to expand our horizons. We are a small outfit but capable of full still photo output as well as end user DVD output on Video. We are not able to output to film. If there are any lower budget opportunities in the Atlanta area please email me, or high end productions that want some guys that are willing and ready to learn more. We are hard working professionals that have fallen in Love with this disease!
Regards,
Wade McGee
Owner
Wiscomb Design
www.wiscombdesign.com
Wade McGee Trading Company
www.wademcgeetradingcompany.com
Choi Kwang-Do Duluth
www.ckdduluth.com

All of the links above are businesses that we own and do all of the photograph work for as well as web development and Flash.

Mandy.com ROCKS!

With all the new faces showing up every day, I thought I would refresh this thread. I am still looking for assistance with this project. Anybody with lighting or audio (experience and or equipment), would be much appreciated. Looking at starting in the early spring- March or maybe sooner.

I think Adrian advice is good for you.
However, I already post your question in the Taiwan's pop dv website. You can check here: http://www.dvworld.com.tw/forum/dvforum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=22195.

Greetings,

Need an African-American video DP for sit-down, indoor interview in L.A. in late September. Pay based on experience, equipment can be provided.

Many thanks,
Kevin Triplett
http://www.abraxasproductions.com
http://www.mopacmedia.com

Greetings,

I am making a short independent film in the area shot in 24p DV with the Panasonic AG-DVX100.

The story is about a Japanese girl (could be other Asian if suitable cast can be found for parents) who is getting married to an American guy but the mother who is visiting from Japan is opposed to the wedding and tries to break it up by making it look like the boyfriend is having an affair. This attempt backfires and instead the father thinks the mother is having an affair. In the end the daughter rescues the mother in order to save the wedding and there's a happy ending.

I would like to start shooting as soon as possible, even tomorrow if a cast can be found. If you are an Asian M or F, 40-50s in the LA area who would be interested in working on this project please contact me to set up a meeting. Some fluency in Japanese or other Asian language is preferable but not required.

I will pay actors $50 and give a DV copy of the final film.

Richard Whitten
whittenr@yahoo.com
818-441-0370

Michael, I lost your email, could you email me asap?
thanks
I think you still have mine.

"1) Legal type advice to keep me from being sued"

protect your ASSets .
you might look at becoming a Limted Liabilty Company ( LLC)
about $125 in Florida. you can form a LLC with a sole individuaal or with group of persons.

http://www.nolopress.com/lawstore/products/product.cfm/objectID/15B382A6-2013-4BD0-B0B66C80743CD9D0/sampleChapter/1

"3) Insurance and permits"

don't know rates in Florida. In calif around $1500 for 1mil liability for under 60K dramatic project for year. it cost more if you only want it for 3 months. around 5K for full package ( liability, E&O , 3rd party , non owned vehicles, faulty tape/neg, main talent insured etc.)
also look into workmans comp. last time i bought around $700 for 2 months. no crew/actor was paid salary ( = low rate) . workmans comp pays medical expense for crew/actors if they get hurt on the job ( normally pays them % of salary but if you are paying them ZERO well 70% of zero is zero)....

try to establish a employer - employee relationship with crew/actors.

good FOOD/meals = a happy crew ...
so-so food/meals = not so happy crew ..
bad food = mystery !! what ? Producer/director disappear!!!

<<<-- Originally posted by Joe Carney : Michael, I lost your email, could you email me asap?
thanks
I think you still have mine. -->>>

Done.

Don- Thanks for those tips. I recieved one call back from an insurance company that had to go somewhere else to get me coverage... You know the type. I was told it would run about 4 grand for a year.

Now I've already heard that State Farm does a liability, for about $300 a year.

The LLC was something I had considered back when I started doing video. I have also heard that they create a new company for every film in Holywood for similar reasons. Good enough for me.

The other stuff is a given, isn't it?

Now... For some news! It seems this project has picked up a Production Coordinator! I don't think she knows what she's in for ;)

Hey John,

Did you ever shoot your Lady X thing? I happen to be in the DC area and my film group and I were entertaining the idea of making a Lady X episode. I was also courious if you were interested in doing other no budget short film work around NOVA/DC/MD.

Our group mostly makes HK style action shorts...if you are interested in that sorta thing.

Chris

Just to share the news about my progress-
I probably have someone to cover the audio, and still need to cover lighting, and a waterproof camera housing.

My new Production Coordinator will bring people to do hair and make up, and all those other things that she coordinates.

I have also been recieving a large number of replies for talent... from the most unlikely people- REAL ACTORS! I am totally amazed to get a headshot and resume from people who have actually been in movies and shows I have watched!

Even after being told up front there is no money, they reply. I tell them it's a really bad story and will probably end their career, and they still want in!

Who would believe it?

I'm in Clearwater and could possibly help out on a weekend or two. I just sent you an email.