I'm a fairly experienced stills photographer, but I'm very new to video. I just love the creative opportunities the 7D platform makes possible. I've now shot video with the 7D a few times, and it's clear to me that I need to add some equipment if I'm going to produce good work, or to take my skills to the next level. I'm going to leave audio accessories out of the mix for the time being (for basics, I have the Rode stereo videomic).

First and foremost, I need to be able to do critical focusing. So, at the top of the list is the Zacuto Z-finder (I've got one on order). I have a decent tripod, but need to add a video head. Beyond that, it seems there is a ton of equipment which could be purchased, but I'm wondering if there is a correct "order" of purchasing items for someone who is just learning the art? Here is my current (ordered) list:

1. Zacuto Z-Finder
2. Video Head (need recomendations)
3. , $$$
4. , $$$
5. , $$$ ...

Would love to see input on this "ordered list." Thanks in advance for any advice!

You can make a steadycam

jeremy_clay wrote:
You can make a steadycam

Is there a website/link which shows how?

Cinema5D is really the place for more informed help on video accessories...

One thing not to over look is editing software if you don't have any yet. Premiere Pro/Elements for PC (or Mac if you prefer, which I do) or Final Cut Pro/Express for Mac are the top choices.

Otherwise, you should be pretty good for a starting list. Got audio and tripod, two more important components.

Kevin Sherman wrote:
Cinema5D is really the place for more informed help on video accessories...

One thing not to over look is editing software if you don't have any yet. Premiere Pro/Elements for PC (or Mac if you prefer, which I do) or Final Cut Pro/Express for Mac are the top choices.

Otherwise, you should be pretty good for a starting list. Got audio and tripod, two more important components.

Thanks for the feedback. I have Premiere Pro for editing.

What about follow focus? Something like this:

http://shopping.netsuite.com/s.nl/c.472981/it.A/id.850/.f?sc=2&category=1789

Should that be added to the list early, or later?

well all that is adding another grand into the mix... I mean, it looks pretty sweet and is likely extremely useful. For me, something like that isn't justified yet. Plus, thats a handheld rig, right? For focusing, I think that Zacuto viewfinder will be a big help.

I'm going to be working was a graduate-program film student (my old boss) this weekend, DPing the project for him. I'm staying as simple as I can and then go from there... Just need a solid tripod, L glass and clean audio. Anything after that is gravy and I might move towards getting more equipment if I find out I'm good at this stuff!

EDIT: I just saw that the Z-Finder is nearly $400.. geez this video stuff is pricey. It never stops, eh?

Kevin Sherman wrote:
well all that is adding another grand into the mix... I mean, it looks pretty sweet and is likely extremely useful. For me, something like that isn't justified yet. Plus, thats a handheld rig, right? For focusing, I think that Zacuto viewfinder will be a big help.

I'm going to be working was a graduate-program film student (my old boss) this weekend, DPing the project for him. I'm staying as simple as I can and then go from there... Just need a solid tripod, L glass and clean audio. Anything after that is gravy and I might move towards getting more equipment if I find out I'm good at this stuff!

EDIT: I just saw that the Z-Finder is nearly $400.. geez this video stuff is pricey. It never stops, eh?

I think the Zacuto will provide the biggest short-term improvement. It's very pricey, but there is no real competition yet. Hopefully that will change, but the opportunity cost of misfocused shots is driving me nuts in the meantime.