Sony HDR-SR1 tripod head

Mike Lane

Obviously I've got a reasonable tripod, but since I'm getting a replacement camcorder soon, I need to think about being able to use it on my tripod. Anyone know if camcorders use the same kind of mounts as cameras or am I going to need to get another tripod head all together?

Photog

You'd probably be happier with a fluid head.

I've been using a Bogen/Manfrotto 3130 micro fluid head for years for pro work and have been very happy with it. It's simple but gets the job done. I tend to avoid pans like the plague but it has handled situations where I've had to shoot wildlife quite smoothly.

Holler if you need actual pics other than catalog pics.

(zooms/pans with video opens up another thread on technique...)

Mike Lane

Actually, it's mostly going to be for static shots of the baby eating and the baby crawling and the baby ... well doing other baby things. Mostly when I have my hands full and can't hold the video camera too. So I mostly just need to keep the camera steady. If my current tripod head will work, I'm keen to use it. But if I can't, I'd like to know soon so I can get what I need quickly.

Photog

If you just need something to put the camera on and stay wide while you're in the shot (i.e., no need for fluid head to follow action by panning) then you'll be fine with what you've got for the time being. Just mount the tripod plate on your video camera like you would your still camera...flip the viewscreen over so it faces you and baby, keep the shot as wide as you can, roll tape, and have fun.

If you find the autofocus and iris/exposure are "hunting", go to manual mode on both.

You may be surprised at how long you can get by with a photo tripod. The trick is setting the shot, rolling tape, and stepping away from the sticks/camera so there's no shake.