Find out how to use the Shootsta Kit 2 in this series of videos.
What's inside the Shootsta Kit 2
The Shootsta Kit 2 contains everything you need to get started creating videos. Find out all the items inside and where they live below:
How to Set Up the Shootsta Kit 2
When it comes to video production, the setup process is just as crucial as the filming itself. The Shootsta Kit, designed to simplify professional-grade video productions, can be assembled in just a few straightforward steps. Here’s a breakdown of how to get your Shootsta Kit ready for action, ensuring everything from your tripod to the autocue is set perfectly.
1. Tripod setup
The foundation of a stable shot starts with a robust tripod setup. Begin by holding the tripod with the legs pointing upwards. Unlock all the latches, give the tripod a shake towards the floor to extend its legs fully, and then lock the latches back into place. Adjust the tripod head's tightness by sliding the wheel on the handle to ensure it moves smoothly.
2. Autocue attachment
If you're using an autocue, the next step involves mounting it onto the tripod. Open the latch at the back of the tripod head and place the autocue’s baseplate inside, securing it by closing the latch. Attach the autocue bracket by sliding the rails into the bottom and tightening the wing nuts to hold it in place. If an autocue is not required, simply attach the camera directly to the tripod by screwing the baseplate to the camera's bottom and mounting it onto the tripod.
3. Camera mounting
Secure the camera by aligning and screwing it into the autocue or directly onto the tripod if no autocue is used. Remember to remove the lens cap to prepare for shooting.
4. Audio setup
For clear audio, mount the audio receiver (labeled RX) onto the camera’s hot shoe and secure it by tightening the wheel. Connect the coiled wire from the receiver to the camera’s red audio jack. Power up the receiver and then set up the transmitter (labeled TX) by connecting the lav mic and turning it on. Check the battery levels on the receiver’s screen to ensure everything is charged.
5. Autocue configuration
Finally, set up the autocue by lifting its top, flipping up the plastic walls to support its structure, and covering the camera's lens with the autocue cover. Launch the autocue app on the provided iPad, load your script, and adjust the scroll speed to match your speaker’s pace. Slide the iPad back into the autocue, making sure to set the display to mirror mode for easy reading.
How to Set Audio
Audio quality can significantly impact the effectiveness of your video, which is why setting up your audio correctly is crucial. This article will guide you through the simple steps to ensure you capture the best audio using your Shootsta Kit.
1. Attaching the audio receiver
Begin by mounting the audio receiver (labeled RX) onto your camera. Slide it into the hot shoe on top of the camera and secure it by tightening the wheel. Connect the coiled wire to the red jack on the left side of your camera, ensuring it's fully plugged in. Power on the receiver by holding down the power button.
2. Mic'ing up your talent
Proper placement of the microphone is key to capturing clear audio. If your subject is wearing a t-shirt, attach the lav mic to the collar. For button-up shirts or jackets, place the mic between the first and second buttons. Ensure that nothing interferes with the mic, such as hair or jewelry. Hide the mic wire inside the subject’s clothing for a cleaner look and connect it to the audio transmitter.
3. Setting audio levels
Once both the receiver and transmitter are powered on, connect headphones to the green jack on your camera to monitor the audio. Have your talent speak a few lines to check the sound quality. To adjust the recording levels, navigate to the audio settings on your camera and adjust the volume to avoid peaking. Ideal audio levels are usually between fifty and seventy-five percent to prevent distortion.
How to Focus with the a7ii
Capturing sharp, well-focused video is crucial for high-quality production. This guide will take you through the essential steps to set up and maintain manual focus on your camera, ensuring that your subject remains crisp and clear throughout your shoot.
1. Switching to Manual Focus
First, identify the focus mode on your camera, which is indicated by an AFC (autofocus continuous) or an MF (manual focus) symbol on your display screen. Switch to manual focus by pressing the AF/MF button above the control wheel on the back of your camera. While autofocus is useful, it can sometimes be unreliable; manual focus gives you full control over your focus point, ensuring it doesn't shift unexpectedly during critical moments.
2. Focusing Your Subject
Once in manual focus mode, adjust the focus by turning the focus ring on your lens. Rotate it clockwise or counterclockwise until your subject is perfectly sharp on your camera's display. If precision is difficult, use the magnification feature: press the C3 button on your camera twice to zoom in on your subject, making it easier to see if they are truly in focus. Press C3 again to return to the normal view.
Extra Tips for Perfect Focus
If you find it challenging to determine sharpness, engage the peaking function on your camera. This tool highlights the edges of in-focus subjects with colored lines, providing a clear visual cue. Access this feature through your camera’s menu: select the cog icon, navigate to page two, and set the peaking level to low, medium, or high based on your preference.
How to Record and Review
Getting your video right involves not just shooting but also ensuring what you've captured is up to par. Today, we'll dive into the essentials of recording and reviewing your footage to guarantee you get the results you need.
Step One: Ready to Record
Before hitting the record button, ensure everything is set for a successful shoot:
- SD Card: Insert a formatted SD card into your camera. Double-check your available storage to avoid running out of space during crucial moments.
- Final Checks: Ensure your shot composition, audio settings, and focus are perfect. Have your talent do a final rehearsal to catch any last-minute adjustments.
Recording
With preparations complete, start recording by pressing the red button on your camera. This button also stops the recording, so once you're done, press it again to cease capturing footage.
Step Two: Reviewing Your Footage
After recording, it's crucial to review your footage to ensure quality and completeness:
- Import to iPad: Remove the SD card from the camera and insert it into an SD card reader connected to your iPad. You can also review footage on your computer or laptop.
- Check Quality: Open the Photos app, go to the import section, and view your clips. This step allows you to check focus, lighting, audio clarity, and overall composition.
- Upload: Once satisfied, upload the footage to the Shootsta Hub for editing or storage.
Reviewing your footage immediately after shooting helps catch any issues while still on location, giving you a chance to reshoot if necessary. This process ensures that you move forward with the best possible material for your project.
Getting to Know the Sony a7ii Camera
The Sony a7ii camera, a cornerstone of the Shootsta kit, stands out with its robust features tailored for professional video and photography. Let's dive into its functionalities and discover how to make the most of this fantastic equipment.
1. On and Off Switch & Shutter Button:
- Located at the top of the camera, the switch is intuitively designed for ease of use. Simply flick it to the right to power up.
- The shutter button, integrated into the switch, allows for focusing and capturing images with a simple press.
2. Custom Buttons and Mode Dial:
- C2 Button: Moves your autofocus square, simplifying the focus adjustment process.
- C1 Button: Serves as a spare, customizable for your frequent needs.
- Mode Dial: Easily switch between video and photo modes, adapting the camera for different shooting requirements.
3. Exposure Control:
- Adjust your shot's lighting by turning the exposure dial. Increase light by turning it counterclockwise and reduce it by turning clockwise.
Advanced Features
4. Hot Shoe:
- Attach audio receivers or other accessories on the hot shoe for enhanced audio capture and functionality.
5. Lens Mechanics:
- Zoom Control: Located at the back of the lens, adjust your framing from wide to tight shots.
- Focus Control: The front ring adjusts focus, critical for sharp imaging.
Navigating the Back Panel
6. Menu and Function Buttons:
- Access and alter camera settings through the menu button.
- The function button acts as a quick access point to essential settings.
7. Playback and Management:
- Review your footage with the playback button or manage files directly on the camera using the delete function.
Additional Insights
8. Audio and Video Management:
- Input ports on the side accommodate audio jacks and HDMI connections, allowing for external monitoring and efficient data transfer.
9. Recording and Storage:
- The record button, crucial for starting and stopping video capture, is ergonomically placed for quick access.
- SD card slot and battery compartment are strategically located for easy swaps during shoots.
This guide outlines the foundational aspects of the Sony a7ii camera, ensuring you can leverage its capabilities to produce professional-grade content. Whether you're filming a detailed tutorial or capturing dynamic event footage, understanding your camera's features is key to achieving outstanding results.
How to Charge Everything Inside the Shootsta Kit 2
Ensuring your equipment is fully charged and ready for action is crucial for any successful video shoot. Here's a detailed guide on how to charge each component of your video kit, ensuring you never face the dreaded dead battery scenario.
1. Charging the iPad:
- Locate the lightning cable and wall charger in the bottom left-hand side of your kit.
- Connect the lightning cable to your iPad and plug the other end into the wall charger or a USB port on a laptop.
2. Charging the Camera:
- You can charge the camera directly using the micro USB cable found above the iPad charger in your kit. Connect it to the camera's side port and plug the other end into a USB-powered device or use the adapter for wall charging.
- Alternatively, charge the camera battery separately using the battery charger provided in the kit. This method allows you to use the camera while another battery charges. Simply remove the battery from the camera, place it in the charger, and connect it to a power source.
3. Charging the LED Light Battery:
- The battery for the LED light is located inside the bracket in your kit. Use the provided charger to connect it to a power outlet.
4. Charging the Wireless Transmitter and Receiver:
- These devices use AA batteries. To replace them, press the button on the back, slide down the cover, and swap out the batteries. Always keep spare AA batteries on hand.
Best Practices and Safety Tips
- Charge After Use: Always recharge batteries after use to ensure they are ready for the next user.
- Check Before Shooting: Even if you've charged everything, verify the battery levels before starting your shoot to avoid surprises.
- Use Designated Chargers: Only use the provided adapters and chargers with the equipment they are meant for to avoid damage.
- Monitor Charger Heat: Unplug chargers once batteries are fully charged to prevent overheating.
- Handle With Care: Avoid forcing batteries into chargers or equipment slots to protect the connecting pins.