A matte box is an essential tool professional filmmakers use to control the light that enters the camera lens. It is an accessory that attaches to the front of the lens and has a set of metal flags or “barn doors” that can be adjusted to block light from entering the lens. The matte box…
Category: Gear
NEEWER Plastic U Rig Smartphone Video Rig, Filmmaking Cage Review
As the video recording capabilities of smartphones continue to improve, more and more videographers and filmmakers are turning to their phones for recording footage. Now often used not only for B-Roll, but oftentimes as their main camera, the need to create a full rig around the phone is becoming a necessity for any on-the-go filmmaker….
The Secret to Steady Footage: The Gimbal
Shaky footage—it has a place. But like anything else in filmmaking, it’s something best to use with intent. Is this shot frantic? Perhaps you want it to feel more “organic.” Or maybe you’re shooting from a character’s point of view. But a lot of time, we want our shots to be smooth and steady. A…
Green Screen vs. Blue Screen: Which Should You Use for Chroma Keying?
Green screens and blue screens are commonly used in the film industry for chroma keying or compositing, which is the process of replacing a solid color background with another image or video footage. The main difference between green screens and blue screens is the color of the background they provide. Green screens are more commonly…
Review: 16″ Neewer Camera Slider with Carbon Fiber Dolly Rail
One of the first things you can do to improve the quality of your video is to add smooth motion to your shots. And one of the least-expensive, yet impactful ways to do so is with a camera slider. Smaller than a full-size dolly, a camera slider can get you the smooth pans you want…
The Best Video Tripod Under $100
Tripods are a tricky thing when it comes to investing in your camera setup. They’re not particularly “sexy” but they’re also something you’re probably going to use quite a bit. And what’s more, tripods, unlike cameras, are something you can use throughout your lifetime in cinematography or videography. But again, since they’re not “sexy” they…