Category: Making Videos

Focusing on all of my efforts around the art of making videos and social media. Camera, lens, and equipment reviews. I also share tutorials on anything I have learned over the years.

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Playing with old Canon Lenses

I found a two Canon FD lenses that I bought on ebay a while ago. I wondered if they would work with my Sony E-mount cameras, so I ordered an adapter ring and started playing around.

The lenses:

  • Canon FD 50MM 1.8
  • Canon FD 35MM 2.8

I took pictures indoors and out, and did some talking head video indoors.

My general conclusion is – while it is nice to play with old lenses, the new technology is far superior and makes life so much easier. You can not self-film/vlog with old manual lenses. I also really needed a ND filter outside.

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Genaray LED-6800 Light Review

I purchased the Genaray LED 6800 light via a B&H daily sale last week and wanted to do a review since there isn’t much information online about it.

It gets the job done, but there are some cheaper elements to the design and connection points that need additional consideration.

I also used this video as an opportunity to test out different shots within my house to film videos.

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Lens Review: Sony 18-105MM F4 Zoom

I recently purchased a used Sony 18-105MM F4 zoom lens for APS-C cameras on Ebay and decided to do a proper review.

I test both video and pictures as well as compared the performance to a 35MM F1.8.

It is a well-built lens and a decent performer, but it has some issues in the corners, it isn’t next level crispy, but what do you want for an 8-year-old zoom lens?

Bonus – Right Out of the Box Impressions:

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Camera Purchasing Advice

I made so many mistakes buying cameras and lenses that I thought I would make a video (hopefully) helping you avoid the same pitfalls.

In this video I discuss:

  • How to save $$$ on camera equipment
  • The first type of lens you should buy
  • Features that are important for someone starting out (not just fancy specs)
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Comica BoomX-D Wireless Mic Review

A B&H Holiday gift guide turned me on to Comica’s BoomX-D wireless mic set.

The BoomX-D comes with one receiver, two wireless mics, 2 lav mic attachments, two dead-cats for outdoor wind reduction, and all the cables you need.

Once I figured out the settings, the sound was pretty good… actually better than good. The wireless option also had great range and I was able to move away from the receiver (and go to a different floor) without losing a connection or audio quality.