Ned Miller, Chicago-based videographer
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Ned Miller, Chicago based videographer

When comparing me to a competitor it is imperative to compare "apples to apples, oranges to oranges." I own the finest equipment and urge you to compare me to others. There are many cheap cameras out there. By choosing me you will get a superior look.

Don't be fooled by buzz words on the sites of Cameramen. High Definition, Digital, etc. If they don't know how to use the equipment like a seasoned musician knows his or her instrument then all is lost.

 

So for those of you who are technically-oriented, here's what you'll get for your money:

CAMERAS: Chicago High Definition cameras: I have special pricing arrangements for various models. The technology is changing so fast it makes no sense to buy one presently. I'd rather work with the latest models that are best for that particular project, and am very experienced with the Sony F900, Panasonic HDX 900, Varicam and HPX 2000, Sony EX1 and Z1U.


I own the SONY BVW-D600 "TOP OF THE LINE" BROADCAST BETACAM CAMERA.

Incorporates full digital signal processing for the camera circuitry, allowing us to manipulate the look to a much greater degree than by filters and lighting alone. Superb low light level performance. Set Up Cards allow us to store pre-set "looks." This is the "Porsche" of cameras.

betacam
  • Features Clear Scan and Extended Clear Scan which eliminates roll and flicker on 90% of computer screens.
  • Fujinon 14X9 with 2X extender and Canon 8X6 WIDE-ANGLE zoom lens (not an adapter!), plus Chrosziel matte box with filters.
  • Digital Anton Bauer Trim Pak batteries with fuel gauge.
  • Sachtler Video 20 tripod, regular and baby legs, hi-hat, wheeled spreader.
  • Sony Betacam playback deck for confidence checks and continuity.
Also own THE PANASONIC DVX-100A+ Lots of accessories.

Due to the many requests for high quality DV (Digital Video) for DVDs, CD-ROMs, the internet and budget challenged projects I have added the best lightweight DV camera.  It also shoots in 24P mode for a more filmic look.

 

      My 8' DV jib sets up in 10 minutes and really dresses up the shot.

It isn't easy holding a small DV camera steady because it is so lightweight. Note the customized rig I developed to ensure a steady, professional look. It keeps my hands free so I can move between focus, exposure and zoom controls without having to fight keeping the camera steady with one or both hands. This makes a BIG difference. There's no reason shooting DV has to look amatuer, as most of it does, if you know what you're doing.

 

My gyroscopic Glidecam 2000 Pro for super smooth     Steadicam looking footage.

Lighting

I own a very large lighting package that will handle 90% of all situations we may run into. These lights are included in my package price, which saves on renting a grip truck! I package each shoot depending on speed, look and size of crew. Mole Richardson, Lowel and Arri lights are on a custom cart that rolls off ready for action!

Dolly

A highly portable, very smooth dolly, the "Sawed Board" from Australia. Rides on PVC pipe, sets up in 15 seconds, really dresses up shots.

Monitors

New! High Definition portable 8" Panasonic BT-LH900 field monitor (this is twice the resolution of the BT-LH80 which most of my competitors own). Also a battery operated Sony portable high resolution PVM 8044 monitor with Hoodman™ for glare-free outdoor viewing, a 7" LCD, and a Sony 19" . For fast moving documentary style shooting I have wireless video monitoring to a handheld Casio TV monitor so you can see exactly what you're getting. Also, a Director's Viewfinder to help the client and director line up shots.

Audio

4 Tram Lavaliers, Sennheiser MKH60 shotgun mic with Rycote wind cover, new Sound Devices 302 stereo mixer, new Shure FP33 stereo mixer, 2 Lectrosonics UHF wireless diversity microphones that have 256 selectable frequencies, Shure SM81 handheld mic, Van deBergh graphite boom pole, Umbilical audio cable with quick release, Yamaha playback speaker, Sony DV48 headsets, cassette recorder for simultaneous transcription purposes.

My Special Shoes

If I know ahead of time that the shoot day will be all hand held I will wear my special shoes! Check these out. Big springs for heels make the hand held walking shots really smooth, especially back pedaling. I get a lot of stares but the footage looks great! I can assure you I am the only shooter who owns a pair.

Sticky Pod Mounts

Very adaptable mounts for DV cameras for cars, boats, etc.

Script Boy™

Wireless time code reader in the shape of a clipboard. Saves incredible time in post production. Know where your good takes are!

Sun Path Software™

This program graphs exactly where the sun will be at a given time of day so we know when, and when not to shoot a scene. Invaluable for location scouting.

Large SUV

Chevy Suburban, with GPS, XM Radio & Ned's iPOD, very comfortable to work out of and travel in. Also a 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee for smaller shoots.

Press Credentials

press credentials I have a coveted Chicago Press Pass allowing me to get beyond the police barricades to help you get optimal angles and footage. Where the cops have decided it is too dangerous for the public to go I can get there with the camera.

© 2005 Ned Miller