In this episode, we dive into our passion for budget video production, sharing our experiences with affordable cameras and lenses like the Panasonic GH5 and G85. We talk about how learning to master custom settings can really make budget equipment stand out, and we reflect on how the used gear market is always changing. We also get into why it’s important to understand lens and sensor compatibility, especially when you’re adapting older lenses. In the end, we encourage you to experiment with budget-friendly options and remind you that you don’t need to spend a fortune to make great content.

Appreciation for Budget Gear (00:00:00)

Speaker expresses gratitude for budget video gear and discusses YouTubers' influence on gear perceptions.

Starting Out with Budget Panasonic Cameras (00:01:22)

Describes early experiences using Panasonic G5 and G3 cameras, and the importance of manual lens control.

Custom Settings for Better Quality (00:02:39)

Explains how custom picture profiles and settings can make budget gear look professional.

Comparing Budget and Pro Cameras (00:04:00)

Shares a story comparing Panasonic G5 footage to Canon C100, emphasizing lens and sensor combinations.

Moving to Newer Budget Cameras (00:06:24)

Talks about upgrading to the G85 and G8, and the focus on in-camera custom settings and LUTs.

Thankfulness for Budget Gear and YouTubers (00:07:28)

Reflects on the value of budget gear and YouTubers like Nigel Barros who maximize older cameras.

Evolution of Camera Prices and Market (00:08:38)

Discusses the falling prices of cameras like the GH5 and G85, and the impact of new models.

GH5 Price Drops and Market Trends (00:11:07)

Explains how the release of newer models like the GX7 affected GH5 prices and market behavior.

Native vs. Adapted Lenses (00:13:25)

Introduces the topic of native mount versus adapted lenses, and mentions upcoming detailed podcast.

Hidden Gem Lenses and Adapting Trends (00:14:28)

Discusses "sleeper" lenses, the decline in adapting lenses, and the shift toward native mount lenses.

Lens Reviews and Still Photography Bias (00:17:00)

Critiques still photographers' emphasis on sharpness and contrast in lens reviews for adapted lenses.

Lens-Sensor Relationship and Sharpness (00:18:20)

Explores how sensor features like optical low pass filters affect lens sharpness and image quality.

Challenges with Sharp Lenses on Modern Sensors (00:20:44)

Describes issues with overly sharp lenses on sensors without low pass filters, and using diffusion filters.

Finding the Right Lens-Sensor Match (00:21:50)

Emphasizes the importance of matching lens sharpness to sensor characteristics for optimal results.

Example: Sigma 18-35mm on G7 (00:23:06)

Gives an example of a sharp lens working well with a sensor that has an optical low pass filter.

Valuable but Undervalued Lenses (00:24:14)

Highlights practical, affordable lenses that are overlooked due to negative reviews about sharpness.

Tamron 70-300mm: A Budget Gem (00:25:32)

Recommends the Tamron 70-300mm lens as a valuable, affordable telephoto option for Micro 4/3.

Film vs. Digital Experience with Lenses (00:26:48)

Shares past experiences with the same lens on film cameras and the variables affecting image quality.

Market Perception vs. Practical Value (00:29:06)

Discusses how market undervalues certain lenses that are actually very useful for video work.

Testing and Recommending Budget Lenses (00:31:22)

Mentions the process of testing and recommending budget lenses on the speaker's website.

Best Era for Budget Lenses (00:33:42)

Suggests the early autofocus era (late 80s to mid-90s) as the sweet spot for finding good budget lenses.

Closing Thoughts and Resources (00:34:56)

Wraps up with encouragement, mentions upcoming detailed podcast, and directs listeners to the website.

How I Adapt Old Lenses to Micro Four Thirds

I already talked about why I'm not investing in Canon EF glass any more, but a lot of people really like Canon FD lenses, and so I thought I would give them a try...but half of the ones I bought stink...and I actually mean that LITERALLY.

So, a Viltrox speed booster killed another one of my cameras (my Panasonic G85). Previously, I published a YouTube video about how the “Canon-mount” version (the EF-M2ii) killed my Panasonic GX85 and how I switched to using the all-manual, Nikon-mount version (the NF-43x) but the bad news is the “Nikon" version killed my G85 (scratched the sensor).

So, in this episode, we dive into our experiences with speed boosters for micro four-thirds cameras (and especially the ones with IBIS). We discuss the pros and cons of brands like Viltrox and Metabones, sharing personal anecdotes about how two of our cameras were damaged with these accessories. We highlight the importance of testing compatibility with different cameras and lenses, and the impact of stabilized sensors (pun intended, sort of). We talk about our goal to find affordable camera solutions to build a reliable two-camera setup for our work in video production and photography, emphasizing the need for accurate testing to avoid problems.

Introduction to Speed Boosters (00:00:00)

Discusses the speaker's experiences with speed boosters for micro four-thirds cameras.

Third Brand Introduction: Pixco (00:01:21)

Introduces Pixco as a lesser-known brand of focal reducers and their compatibility issues.

Testing Compatibility (00:02:28)

Highlights the importance of testing lens compatibility with adapters to avoid issues.

Focal Reducer Market Overview (00:03:32)

Discusses the price differences and recommendations for various focal reducers.

Camera Damage Anecdote (00:04:33)

Shares a personal story about damaging a camera while using a speed booster.

Issues with Electronic Controls (00:05:29)

Describes problems with the camera's shutter speed control after using certain adapters.

Nikon Mount Experience (00:06:39)

Relates the experience of using a Nikon mount speed booster and subsequent camera damage.

Sensor Movement Explanation (00:07:40)

Explains how stabilized sensors can lead to issues with focal reducers.

Metabones Compatibility Chart (00:08:48)

Discusses Metabones' approach to compatibility with different camera bodies.

Canon Mount Problems (00:09:58)

Details issues faced with a Canon mount speed booster and its impact on camera performance.

Glitches and Corrupt Files (00:12:13)

Describes file corruption and glitches experienced with the camera after using the speed booster.

Recommendation Changes (00:14:24)

Announces the withdrawal of recommendations for specific speed boosters due to reliability concerns.

Current Camera Status (00:15:37)

Updates on the speaker's current camera situation after recent damages.

Testing New Lenses (00:17:47)

Plans to test new lenses in light of current equipment limitations.

Budget Camera Strategy (00:19:05)

Discusses the strategy of maintaining a two-camera setup under a budget of $600 per camera.

Future Camera Aspirations (00:20:10)

Explores potential upgrades to newer camera models while keeping costs low.

In this episode, we dive into the importance of custom camera settings over LUTs in video production. We explain our approach of using lens sensor-specific settings to achieve top-notch image quality straight out of the camera, minimizing the need for extensive color grading. We clarify that our LUTs are for minor tweaks, not the primary tool for achieving a desired look. We also discuss the challenges of color grading, especially with 8-bit files, and the benefits of optimized settings for live streaming. Overall, the episode educates listeners on the value of tailored camera settings for high-quality video output.

Why My LUTs Don't Do Much (00:00:00)

The speaker explains the limited importance of LUTs compared to custom camera settings.

Lens Sensor Specific Settings (00:01:12)

Discussion on using lens sensor-specific settings for optimal image quality.

In-Camera Settings vs. Real-Time LUTs (00:02:37)

The advantages of in-camera settings over real-time LUTs are highlighted.

Custom Settings for Each Lens (00:03:52)

Emphasis on the need for tailored settings for each lens to achieve better results.

Testing Lenses and Settings (00:06:04)

The speaker shares experiences with specific lenses and their performance with default settings.

Minor Adjustments with LUTs (00:08:17)

LUTs are used for minor tweaks rather than significant changes to the image.

Color Grading Ease (00:09:38)

The speaker discusses how custom settings simplify the color grading process.

Noise Reduction and Sharpness (00:10:51)

Insights into the relationship between noise reduction and sharpness adjustments in-camera.

Addressing Common Misconceptions (00:13:01)

The speaker counters common advice against using in-camera noise reduction and sharpness.

Website as a Resource (00:14:49)

The speaker describes their website as a database for custom camera settings.

Importance of Custom Camera Settings (00:16:52)

The speaker emphasizes the significance of custom settings for achieving a realistic look.

Future Topics on Shooting Flat (00:17:54)

The speaker hints at a future episode discussing reasons for not shooting flat or in log.

Benefits of In-Camera Settings for Live Streaming (00:18:52)

In-camera settings are beneficial for live streaming, providing a realistic appearance.

In this podcast episode, we dive into the debate over messy versus clean workspaces and their impact on creativity and productivity, especially in filmmaking. We share our personal struggles with maintaining an organized space and introduce the "P.A.C." concept—Portable, Affordable, Common. This framework emphasizes the importance of having portable, budget-friendly gear that’s easy to organize and transport. We highlight the benefits of a portable setup, including easier transitions between studio and location shoots, and the role of in-body image stabilization in cameras. The episode underscores the balance between creativity and organization for enhanced productivity.

Introduction to Creative Mindset (00:00:00)

The speaker introduces the topic of workspace organization and its impact on creativity.

Messy vs. Clean Workspaces (00:01:06)

Discussion on the debate between messy and clean workspaces affecting productivity and creativity.

Personal Experience with Organization (00:02:16)

The speaker shares their struggle with maintaining an organized workspace and past attempts to improve.

Concept of P.A.C. (00:03:21)

Introduction of the acronym "P.A.C." (Portable, Affordable, Common) related to gear organization.

Benefits of Portability (00:04:43)

Exploration of how portability aids in location shoots and maintaining a clean studio space.

Efficiency of Packing Gear (00:05:47)

The importance of packing gear efficiently to minimize theft and maximize productivity.

Keeping the Studio Clean (00:10:10)

The speaker emphasizes the need for a clean workspace to enhance workflow and productivity.

Defining Portability (00:11:08)

Explanation of what constitutes portability in terms of gear and organization.

In-Body Image Stabilization (00:14:35)

Discussion on advancements in camera technology that reduce the need for bulky stabilization gear.

Comparing Sensor Sizes (00:16:01)

The speaker compares micro 4/3 sensors to full-frame sensors regarding portability and lens size.

Quality and Readiness Reset (00:20:27)

The importance of having quality gear that is easy to use and the concept of a "readiness reset" for organization.

Workspace Organization and Productivity (00:23:46)

Discussion on how workspace organization impacts productivity and creativity in filmmaking.

**Podcast Episode Summary: Low-Budget Filmmaking Tips**

In this episode, we dive into essential tips for low-budget filmmaking, emphasizing the importance of using at least two cameras. We explain how multiple cameras can capture various angles and shots, enhancing the storytelling process. We share personal experiences, like filming a sunset, to highlight the benefits of having additional cameras or a telephoto lens. We discuss different camera kits—minimal, basic, and advanced—and provide recommendations for lenses and setups. The episode is packed with practical advice for filmmakers looking to improve their craft without breaking the bank.

Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:00)

The speaker welcomes listeners and introduces the topic of low-budget filmmaking tips.

Importance of Multiple Cameras (00:00:17)

The speaker emphasizes the necessity of using at least two cameras for effective video production.

Camera Kit Levels Explained (00:01:17)

Discussion of three camera kit levels: minimal, basic, and advanced kits.

Shooting Experience at Sunset (00:02:35)

The speaker shares a personal experience shooting a sunset, highlighting the need for multiple lenses.

Wide and Tight Shots Concept (00:03:43)

Explanation of the basic two-camera method focusing on wide and tight shot compositions.

Telephoto Lens Benefits (00:04:51)

Discussion on the advantages of including a telephoto lens in the camera setup.

Telephoto Lens Recommendations (00:05:57)

The speaker explains various options for telephoto lenses and their practical uses.

Cost-Effective Vintage Lenses (00:07:57)

Introduction of affordable vintage lenses as a smart choice for budget filmmakers.

Setting Up Multiple Cameras (00:09:29)

Tips on configuring multiple cameras on a single cage for efficient shooting.

Third Camera Setup Options (00:13:05)

Exploration of options for adding a third camera, including using multiple tripods.

Pros and Cons of Different Methods (00:14:08)

Comparison of methods for camera setups, weighing the benefits of each approach.

Sony A7 Series Discussion (00:16:24)

The speaker discusses options for a third camera, considering the Sony A7 series.

Wide Angle vs. Telephoto Needs (00:20:18)

Explains the importance of wide-angle capabilities in full-frame cameras compared to micro 4/3.

Final Thoughts on Camera Setup (00:22:38)

The speaker wraps up with the versatility of using multiple cameras for various filming scenarios.

Filmmaking Techniques (00:25:05)

Discusses the importance of using multiple cameras for dynamic shots in filmmaking.

Authenticity in Storytelling (00:26:17)

Emphasizes the need for authentic shots over staged reshoots to capture real events.

Equipment and Resources (00:27:23)

Mentions future plans for sharing equipment lists and diagrams to aid filmmakers.

Synchronous Sound Concept (00:28:23)

Introduces the idea of capturing audio simultaneously with video for enhanced authenticity.

In this episode, we dive into the world of shift lenses and tilt-shift adapters for micro four-thirds (micro 4/3) cameras. We explain the concepts of shift and tilt in photography, emphasizing the benefits of shift adapters for architectural photography. We talk about how shift adapters can help maintain architectural realism by correcting perspective distortion. We also discuss the affordability of shift adapters for Micro Four Thirds, compared to buying full-frame tilt-shift lenses, and also our recommendation to buy a SHIFT-ONLY adapter when you're just starting.

As for specific recommendsattions, there aren't any shift (i.e. "perspective control") lenses available for Micro Four Thirds (at this time) but I've been using a shift ADAPTER (which means I can use almost any Nikon mount lens (including the Tokina 11-16 zoom lens) and I've been loving it! Here's a couple of options for either an affordable tilt/shift lens or a Micro Four Thirds adapter (affiliate links) TILT/SHIFT LENS (24mm) https://amzn.to/3n1lCgo TILT/SHIFT ADAPTER (Nikon) https://amzn.to/3tOtvcM

Here are the extracted timestamps and their corresponding titles:

Introduction to Shift Lenses (00:00:00)

Discussion on the lack of shift lenses for micro 4/3 cameras and the use of shift adapters.

Understanding Shift and Tilt (00:01:18)

Explanation of the difference between shift and tilt movements in photography.

How Shift Works (00:05:14)

Description of how shift adapters operate using lenses with larger image circles.

Challenges with Medium Format Lenses (00:06:49)

Discussion on the difficulties of finding suitable medium format wide-angle lenses.

Benefits of Shift Lenses (00:10:32)

Overview of the advantages of using shift lenses for architectural photography.

Personal Experience with Shift Adapter (00:12:52)

Speaker shares personal experiences using a shift adapter on a Panasonic G85 camera.

Limitations of Certain Camera Models (00:14:07)

Explanation of why certain camera models cannot use shift adapters effectively.

Perspective Control in Photography (00:16:31)

Introduction to perspective control and its significance in architectural photography.

Maintaining Architectural Realism (00:19:03)

Importance of shift lenses in preserving the realism of architectural shots.

Composing Shots with Shift Lenses (00:20:17)

Techniques for composing shots using a shift lens to avoid distortion.

Speeding Up Composition (00:22:58)

How using a shift adapter can streamline the process of composing shots.

Authenticity in Photography (00:25:23)

Discussion on the authentic feel achieved through the use of shift adapters in various shot types.

Tilt Shift Pricing Overview (00:26:40)

Discussion on the cost of tilt-shift lenses and adapters for micro 4/3 cameras.

Advice on Starting with Shift (00:27:57)

Recommendation to begin with a shift-only adapter for simplicity before progressing to tilt.

Historical Context of Tilt Shift (00:29:00)

Overview of the origins of tilt and shift techniques in large format photography.

Recommendations for Micro 4/3 Adapters (00:30:12)

Suggestions for purchasing shift adapters and where to find them.

YouTube Channel Content (00:31:20)

Information about upcoming videos on tilt and shift photography examples.

In this podcast episode, we explore the intricate relationship between camera lenses and sensors, focusing on dynamic range in photography and videography. Drawing from personal experiences with budget Panasonic (Micro Four Thirds) cameras, we highlight how different lenses and filters impact image quality. We emphasize the importance of managing light to match the sensor's capabilities. The episode also introduces our website, www.silverlightphotoco.com which has the custom camera settings we use (from every lens-sensor combination we've tested).

Here are the extracted timestamps and their corresponding titles from the podcast episode transcription segment:

Introduction to Lens Sensor Relationships (00:00:00)

Overview of the importance of matching lens capabilities to sensor dynamic range.

Dynamic Range Misconceptions (00:01:15)

Discussion on how too much light or contrast can overwhelm a sensor's capabilities.

Panasonic Camera Evolution (00:02:29)

Comparison of Panasonic G7 and G85, focusing on the removal of the anti-aliasing filter.

Personal Camera Upgrade Experience (00:03:30)

Speaker shares their journey from using the G5 to upgrading to the G85.

Lens Compatibility Insights (00:04:31)

Exploration of how different lenses perform on various Panasonic cameras.

Misleading Camera Settings (00:05:54)

Addressing incorrect assumptions about universal camera settings across different models.

Impact of Filters on Image Quality (00:07:12)

Importance of lens and filter combinations for achieving desired image results.

Personal Filtration Experience (00:08:51)

Narration of using filters to improve image quality on older Panasonic cameras.

Dynamic Range Challenges with Nikon (00:10:03)

Experiences with Nikon D780 and its limitations in handling dynamic range outdoors.

Innovative Solutions for Dynamic Range (00:12:12)

Desperate measures taken to optimize image quality using unconventional methods.

Vintage vs. New Lenses (00:14:35)

Discussion on preferences for vintage lenses due to their handling of contrast and sharpness.

Optimizing Light for Better Images (00:15:53)

Strategies for modifying light paths to match sensor capabilities for improved images.

Practical Considerations for Photographers (00:17:06)

Advice on capturing images with minimal post-processing for various shooting scenarios.

Photon Management Explained (00:18:11)

Introduction to the concept of managing light as a key aspect of photography.

Lens Characteristics and Sensor Compatibility (00:19:11)

Exploration of how lens design affects image quality and sensor interaction.

Vintage Lens Advantages (00:20:10)

Benefits of using vintage lenses for their unique characteristics and image quality.

Challenges with New Lens Technology (00:22:22)

Concerns about modern lens designs not matching sensor capabilities effectively.

Dynamic Range Management Techniques (00:23:23)

Tips for managing intense light conditions to optimize sensor performance.

Photon Management Analogy (00:24:46)

The speaker compares managing light to controlling traffic on a freeway to explain photon density.

Understanding Sensor Capabilities (00:25:35)

Discussion on how to manage light based on the camera sensor's capabilities through testing and experimentation.

Website Resource for Camera Settings (00:26:37)

The speaker shares a resource for finding recommended settings for various camera and lens combinations.

Custom Settings for Lenses (00:27:35)

Advice on utilizing custom settings in cameras for frequently used lenses to streamline photography.

Conclusion on Lens Settings (00:28:39)

Emphasis on the importance of knowing settings for each lens to achieve optimal image results.

In this podcast episode, we dive into the world of camera equipment, focusing on the Viltrox EF-M2 Mark II focal reducer for Canon EF mount. We share our personal experiences, highlighting concerns about this adapter's reliability, which we suspect may have caused issues with our Panasonic G85 camera. Despite its affordability, we warn about potential risks and compare it to the more reliable Nikon mount version. This episode serves as a cautionary tale, urging listeners to carefully consider their equipment choices to avoid damaging their gear.

Here are the extracted timestamps and topics from the podcast episode transcription segment:

Introduction and Equipment Review (00:00:00)

The speaker introduces the podcast and discusses reviewing the Viltrox EF-M2 Mark II focal reducer.

Concerns about the Viltrox Adapter (00:00:14)

The speaker shares suspicions that the Viltrox adapter may have damaged one of their cameras.

Comparison with Nikon Mount Version (00:01:14)

The speaker praises the Nikon mount version of the Viltrox adapter as a superior option for micro 4/3 systems.

Warnings about Adapter Compatibility (00:03:47)

The speaker warns about potential dangers of using the wrong adapter on specific cameras, particularly the meta bones.

Experiences with Canon Mount Adapter (00:05:04)

The speaker describes issues encountered while using the Canon mount Viltrox adapter with their Panasonic GH85 camera.

Technical Issues and Camera Glitches (00:06:26)

Details on glitches experienced, including screen flickering and freezing, while using the Viltrox adapter.

Potential Damage to Camera (00:08:30)

The speaker expresses concern that the Viltrox adapter may have permanently damaged their camera.

Budget Filmmaking Recommendations (00:11:02)

The speaker discusses the importance of budget-friendly filmmaking solutions and their preference for Nikon mount lenses.

Cost Comparison of Canon and Nikon Lenses (00:12:17)

The speaker compares prices of Canon and Nikon lenses, emphasizing the affordability of Nikon options.

Canon Lens Limitations (00:15:42)

The speaker discusses limitations and costs associated with Canon lenses, particularly for micro 4/3 systems.

Sports Photography and Lens Selection (00:16:52)

The speaker shares experiences and challenges in finding affordable lenses for sports photography.

Canon vs. Nikon for Filmmaking (00:20:00)

The speaker contrasts Canon and Nikon lenses in the context of filmmaking, favoring Nikon for budget considerations.

Final Recommendations on Lens Mounts (00:22:18)

The speaker concludes with strong recommendations for Nikon lenses, especially for budget-conscious filmmakers.

Cautionary Note on Viltrox Adapter (00:25:11)

The speaker reiterates the potential risks of using the Viltrox EF-M2 Mark II adapter with cameras.

Camera Search Options (00:28:05)

Discusses how to search for cameras on the Silverlightcom website.