Jason Cypret Videography

Behind The Scenes – What I Use

So I get asked from time to time by very knowledgeable clients, "what are you using for production"? While I would love to add the systems, programs, and equipment I use, to our FAQ’s page it really wouldn’t work because I find I am constantly upgrading my equipment. I will however give you a quick list of what I am using right at the moment. I’m sure this list will be outdated in a month (Christmas is almost here).

If you have read any of my other blogs you realize that I am a proclaimed Apple fan-boy. I am actually writing this post from my iPhone . So of course our studio is a 100% Mac production house. I have a Mac Pro, a Power Mac G4 (fully upgraded, it still runs good), and a Mac Book. I have dual screen setups on both towers. I use Xgrid to help with rendering projects quickly. At the heart of it all is Final Cut Studio 2. The programs I mainly stick to are Final Cut Pro, DVD Studio Pro, Motion, Soundtrack Pro. I haven’t really used Color that much as I love Magic Bullet Colorista, and Magic Bullet Look Suite. I love it.

The cameras I use are two Canon GL2, and one Sony (who’s model number escapes me). These cameras have been perfect for me as they are identical to the XL 1S but without the option to change lenses, and the GL2 has a LCD screen. I have shot lots of weddings and have never really found an instance where I needed a longer local length. Other people’s experiences may vary. Of course we have a Canon light w/ a diffuser, Canon WD-58H wide-angle adapter with hood, an extreme fisheye lens, and remote controllers. I love Canon products like I love Apple products, so I am planning to upgrade my cameras soon to either the Canon XH G1, or the XH A1. Once this whole format war is figured out. However I am in the Blu-Ray camp right now. I use Sennheiser Wireless mics. I have 2 fluid head tripods. Lastly I also bring along My Canon 400D Digital Camera. We take great DVD cover shots that we include all stills in any package. If I start going into my digital camera equipment we will be here all day. I’m probably missing a gadget or two but this is a good rough estimate.

If you are looking to get into videography I suggest getting a decent 3CCD camera, a tripod, and a wireless mic to start out. Do your editing in iMovie or Final Cut Express. With a eye for detail and great shots you can get your start. Then start to upgrade everything.