@formaset Not if you know the exposure lock trick. A lot of people underestimate the capabilities of the Vixia's. Check my profile for an example. (MS Rumors)
@mark84j Actually, you know what? I bought a canon Vixia HX M400 this Xmas. I was BLOWN AWAY with how CLEAN this thing shoots. Even though is 1 chip the colors are outstanding and it RIVALS my Sony PMW EX-3 in low light. Wow, wow, WOW! But the Canon HV-20 SUCKS in low light BIG TIME as I own one to capture video and am selling on eBay as i have no need for tape anymore. The m-400 got discontinued unfortunately and i got a BARGAIN for that cam, brand new from B&H.
In my opinion rigging any of the HV or HF series like this these days is redundant (Yes, I know this video was posted nearly 3 years ago, but I know people still do this :P) You can achieve a much better film look with a bare HDSLR like the Canon T2i or the Lumix GH1 (Or the much more expensive 5DMKII and 1DMKIV), not to mention all the additional manual controls like shutter speed, aperture, ISO, and all the interchangeable lenses and the huge imaging sensor :)
I made the viewfinder. I consist of a mirror and the eyepiece is from a Panasonic camera about 14 years old, which I had. The eyepiece and magnifier. worked great.
The difference is that you can use photographic lenses which allows you to control your depth of field. The depth of field gives the video a film look by using selective focus instead of having everything in focus all the time. This is not for everyone, it's for those of us that use video like film. Look at some of the videos shot with my and other adeapters to see the difference.
The ground glass is 3 times the size of 35mm, therefore your camera is not forced to shoot a 1x1.5 area, and the lenses are not as expensive as you think. Do a search on the web for Mamiya 645 manual lenses and you'll see. The adapter also uses 35mm Nikon or Canon lenses if you wish. Look at the videos on youtube.
That is a myth. The DOF of a medium format is no different than 35mm. It is all in relation to the focal length of the lens in conjunction with the size of the negative. You have to watch what you read on the web, there is so much misinformation. Look at the videos shot with my setup and see for yourself.
The tripod is of an unknown origin. Came accross it a few years ago and liked it because is light and can hold about 15 lbs. I've been in the business for many years and still have no clue as to where it came from. No brand or labels anywhere.
NIce but wouldn't it be cheaper to buy a prosumer camcorder like a Canon XM2 or something? Or do you enjoy making all of the kit and accessories for it?
the xm2 (gl2 in U.S) is a crap cam compared to the hv or hfs canon hd series cams. I had the xl1 (basically same image quality as gl2 maybe better) and my hfs100 and hv30 blew it away.
The viewfider is based on a mirror reflecting the screen and therefore flipping the image, then I built a casing for the mirror and made it so it slides on to the screen. I also attached a magnifier from so I could view it at eye level, like a film camera. I have an easier method that I will post on youtube, easier to make.
wow great job its looks great could you tell me how to made or were you got ur view finder ime trying to put one on me jvc everio Hd i dont know how tho can u please help me!!!???
Yes, It's the HV20. It has black gaffer tape on the side, just so that it blends a bit better. The HV-30 is black so that takes care of that. So if it's not the HV-20 which one is it?
My HV30 is not pimped out and my video look's awesome. Even with a pimped out camcorder, you still have to go through all the changing of the Hue and saturation, Color balance, Curves adjustments, and sharpening of the video. Even the professionals go through all them stages with nonconsumer camcorders.
But ignorence is bliss you know. People cant help but to get stupified over things that "look" as brolic as your set up.
It's very simple.. It's only a tool. When people realize that the camera is only a tool no matter what it looks like.. A hammer is a hammer and nothing more. I don't need a fancy camera I do it to make my life easier, but it doesn't make any better videos, my many years behind the camera makes better videos.
Just to prove a point, use whatever you have and make it work for you. The camera is not going to make you any better, but at least make the camera more productive.
Well good luck with that, you're paying a lot more and getting a 35mm groundglass. My groundglass is 2 1/4 x 1 5/8 almost 3 times the size. Would love to hear your thoughts on the Letus when y0u get it.
Do you have a tutorial on how to make this? I'm thinking os possibly pimping out my camera. (I'm debating/comparing between the Sony HDR HC-1 and the Canon HV30 right now.)
No I do not have a tutorial on this. I simply started putting it together and changing things as I went along until I was happy with the outcome. Never even put anything on paper.
The image is corrected or flipped, but not horizontally. The viewfinder is with a mirror which reflects the screen image and then the eye piece allows you to view it like a standard viewfinder. works great!
Great work being able to have the knowledge a will to be able to put all of these components together I would love to see some footage , do you have any ?
that's pretty sad. first you won't shot anything second, by the time you WASTED time to build this and invest, you could rent RED camera and shoot your experiments on 4K.
Sorry for the delay in answering. The HV20 can use any DV tape preferrably Sony or Panasonic. You do not have to use HD tape to shoot in HD you can use high quality DV tape. I used Panasonic DVM63AMQ tape.
this is an outstanding set-up..wont lie about that. But, come to think of it, would it be just about the same (if not better) if the money spent on everything to baught on here, was used to buy a more prosumer camera?
The only prosumer thing about a camera is the cameraman. A camera is a camera. They all have their limitations, my $35,000 DVCpro50 camera sits in storage now. Everyone wants HIdef. I actually find it too sharp and unrealistic and so do many of the talking heads in front of the camera.
do you work at adorama? i remember seeing the adapter there. problem with the rig is youd never be able to shoot indoors without a really huge lighting package, right? i mean the HV20 with adapter is around iso 64 or slower probably and then to be stuck using f2.8 or slower lenses that's got to be frustrating.
Wrong. The fact that people claim that you need really fast lenses is wrong. F/2.8 has never been considered a slow lens. Youcan see the adapter at Adorama and I will be happy to show you under low light conditions. Look at the footage here on Youtube on my videos shot in Times Square at night with a 150mm F/4 lens.
i was just suggesting that it would be difficult to shoot interiors at <iso64. what do you estimate is the amount of light lost with an f2.8 lens? was the times square footage shot with the HV20 or another camera? the signs which are light sources are well exposed but the people are a bit under. f2.8-4 isnt slow for medium format but compared to 35mm primes. thanks for posting the videos. im glad this product is available but i probably wouldnt use it due to fuzzy bokeh and light loss.
There goes the famous Bokeh. I actually mentioned this word to a photographer with 40 years in the business and like myself he said what the hell is that? I have never in my 40 years in the business heard a photographer or Cinematographer ever said "I hate the Bokeh" The only lens that has a distinct out of focus look is the mirror lens. Everything else is pure nonsense. I've read a few decades of American Cinematographer and never saw the word. If you can find it please let me know.
vargas095, I want to buy a brevis35 adapter for my HV20 but I don't know which rail kit should I buy? (30cm, 45cm or 60cm) and also what Canon lens do you prefer? (Canon EF 50mm f1.4 or f1.8?). And also which is better, FD or EOS compatitible lense?
Sorry for my noob questions :D I'll be glad if you answer me. Thanks!!!
Well there wasn't a heck of a lot for material, just lots of planing and changing. The only thing that would cost a bit is the eyepiece which came out of a Panasonic full size camera. It was a lot of fun making it. I will post the latest addition which is a carrying handle on the top.
I built everything. The most expensive thing was the viewfinder eyepiece which came out of one of my large Panasonic cameras. I had an extra one. The next posting will be the additional modifications that have already been done. Stay tuned.
I highly recommend a film adapter, after you get the adapter there will be many accessories that you'll need. Without an adapter the only thing I can think of is a wide angle lens.
The only real expense is film adapter, which I also build. The viewfinder was homemade except for the actual eyepiece which came out of Panasonic camera viewfinder. The lens support is a modified Bogen piece, that cost about $65.00. I sell the film adapter for $850.00 with medium format and 35mm lens mounts.
still a 1 chip camera with high noise in low light. LMFAO!!
formaset 1 month ago
@formaset Not if you know the exposure lock trick. A lot of people underestimate the capabilities of the Vixia's. Check my profile for an example. (MS Rumors)
mark84j 1 month ago
@mark84j I'm a professional videographer and I push any camera to its limits.
formaset 1 month ago
@formaset Then you know that Vixias can be outstanding even in low light.
mark84j 1 month ago
@mark84j Actually, you know what? I bought a canon Vixia HX M400 this Xmas. I was BLOWN AWAY with how CLEAN this thing shoots. Even though is 1 chip the colors are outstanding and it RIVALS my Sony PMW EX-3 in low light. Wow, wow, WOW! But the Canon HV-20 SUCKS in low light BIG TIME as I own one to capture video and am selling on eBay as i have no need for tape anymore. The m-400 got discontinued unfortunately and i got a BARGAIN for that cam, brand new from B&H.
formaset 1 month ago
sooooooooooooooooooo beast dude lol
thegetoffme 9 months ago
only one?
jumblejimble 10 months ago
Very nice kit!
TheJosh2005 1 year ago
In my opinion rigging any of the HV or HF series like this these days is redundant (Yes, I know this video was posted nearly 3 years ago, but I know people still do this :P) You can achieve a much better film look with a bare HDSLR like the Canon T2i or the Lumix GH1 (Or the much more expensive 5DMKII and 1DMKIV), not to mention all the additional manual controls like shutter speed, aperture, ISO, and all the interchangeable lenses and the huge imaging sensor :)
digitalfxcube 1 year ago
af or mf ?
Kwintreepler 1 year ago
poor thing
stavit2 1 year ago
what the hell ::D HAHAHA
44147TV 1 year ago
Sorry!
vargas095 1 year ago
you crazy bastard! (meant that as a compliment)
baldheadkid 1 year ago
Very, veryyy nice
KevinIrwinFilms 1 year ago
interesting but you could have bought a better camcorder that has interchangeable lenses with all the cash it cost to build it up like this
itsumonihon 1 year ago
I made the viewfinder. I consist of a mirror and the eyepiece is from a Panasonic camera about 14 years old, which I had. The eyepiece and magnifier. worked great.
vargas095 1 year ago
if i asked you to make me a viewfinder like that how much would you charge?
stanlymanly2 1 year ago
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stanlymanly2 1 year ago
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stanlymanly2 1 year ago
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stanlymanly2 1 year ago
The difference is that you can use photographic lenses which allows you to control your depth of field. The depth of field gives the video a film look by using selective focus instead of having everything in focus all the time. This is not for everyone, it's for those of us that use video like film. Look at some of the videos shot with my and other adeapters to see the difference.
vargas095 1 year ago
i have a question if i may:
What exactly is the difference between normal and this one whit extra lenses and adapters?
thanx.
MrAllstarproductions 1 year ago
should have bought a HVX200 from the first place.
yumaokamoto 1 year ago
price?
magicpaddygib 1 year ago
I bet canon's 7D takes better video and has many more lens options
yoimjustlivin1 1 year ago
what is the armor or you just made it?
sonico73 2 years ago
oh my
GINGERKIDinc 2 years ago
what is that thing on your LCD?? lol
zoinkclothing 2 years ago
do you know the model/type of video camera you sourced the eyepiece from? Im looking to do a similar thing
bobyg26 2 years ago
Why not just buy a better camcorder.
JimiHenbricks 2 years ago
nice
OYEPRODUCTIONS07 2 years ago
The ground glass is 3 times the size of 35mm, therefore your camera is not forced to shoot a 1x1.5 area, and the lenses are not as expensive as you think. Do a search on the web for Mamiya 645 manual lenses and you'll see. The adapter also uses 35mm Nikon or Canon lenses if you wish. Look at the videos on youtube.
vargas095 2 years ago
i didn't know you could but a medium format adapter on an hv30 you must have unbelievable shallow dof lol.
provid1234 2 years ago
That is a myth. The DOF of a medium format is no different than 35mm. It is all in relation to the focal length of the lens in conjunction with the size of the negative. You have to watch what you read on the web, there is so much misinformation. Look at the videos shot with my setup and see for yourself.
vargas095 2 years ago
so whats the point of using medium format lenses on an hv30 vs 35mm then. medium format lenses are alot more expensive.
provid1234 2 years ago
lol too bad you don't have microphone =)
nice rig
bouchandre 2 years ago
I do have microphones. I use Sennheiser wireless mikes.
vargas095 2 years ago
holy crap how do you hold that thing?
CrypticArtist 2 years ago
what's your tripod?
AlainRatiarson 2 years ago
The tripod is of an unknown origin. Came accross it a few years ago and liked it because is light and can hold about 15 lbs. I've been in the business for many years and still have no clue as to where it came from. No brand or labels anywhere.
vargas095 2 years ago
I actually enjoy modifying thing to my liking and need. I have a few other cameras, JVC 110HD,Sony Z1, Panasonic DVCpro.
vargas095 2 years ago
NIce but wouldn't it be cheaper to buy a prosumer camcorder like a Canon XM2 or something? Or do you enjoy making all of the kit and accessories for it?
thefilmmakerpro 2 years ago
the xm2 (gl2 in U.S) is a crap cam compared to the hv or hfs canon hd series cams. I had the xl1 (basically same image quality as gl2 maybe better) and my hfs100 and hv30 blew it away.
provid1234 2 years ago
Nice rig man. What have you created using it?
tubeyou010180 2 years ago
your my hero man
imangelanjo 2 years ago
wooow. fucking frankencanon
file0save0studios 2 years ago
Berserk? how much did it cost u to modify your hv20?
schlumperga 2 years ago
u might as well get a prosumer cam lol. like a xha1 or something
hakerboi5994 2 years ago
That poor little HV20!
thejapanesechallenge 2 years ago 9
lol..looks like its getting gangbanged
manguap 2 years ago 10
why why why?
1ExTERMINATE1 2 years ago
What kind of Matte Box/Lens Hood are you using??? And what price is it
dcairbre 2 years ago
how did u build the casing for the mirror?
StrangeDeserts 2 years ago
I made the casing with fiber glass and resin.
vargas095 2 years ago
thats scary
StrangeDeserts 2 years ago
The viewfider is based on a mirror reflecting the screen and therefore flipping the image, then I built a casing for the mirror and made it so it slides on to the screen. I also attached a magnifier from so I could view it at eye level, like a film camera. I have an easier method that I will post on youtube, easier to make.
vargas095 3 years ago
wow great job its looks great could you tell me how to made or were you got ur view finder ime trying to put one on me jvc everio Hd i dont know how tho can u please help me!!!???
19931512 3 years ago
What size lens hood is that?
thetechwave 3 years ago
3 inch square filter holder by cavision in Canada.
vargas095 2 years ago
Yes, It's the HV20. It has black gaffer tape on the side, just so that it blends a bit better. The HV-30 is black so that takes care of that. So if it's not the HV-20 which one is it?
vargas095 3 years ago
this isn't the canon hv20
1bobo1 3 years ago
your 100% right.
My HV30 is not pimped out and my video look's awesome. Even with a pimped out camcorder, you still have to go through all the changing of the Hue and saturation, Color balance, Curves adjustments, and sharpening of the video. Even the professionals go through all them stages with nonconsumer camcorders.
But ignorence is bliss you know. People cant help but to get stupified over things that "look" as brolic as your set up.
leemoore 3 years ago
It's very simple.. It's only a tool. When people realize that the camera is only a tool no matter what it looks like.. A hammer is a hammer and nothing more. I don't need a fancy camera I do it to make my life easier, but it doesn't make any better videos, my many years behind the camera makes better videos.
vargas095 3 years ago
Look at the video with the adapter on the JVCGYHD110 and see if I need a XLH1. I don't think so.
vargas095 3 years ago
Did you do this because you couldn't get an XL-H1?
TVperson1 3 years ago
Just to prove a point, use whatever you have and make it work for you. The camera is not going to make you any better, but at least make the camera more productive.
vargas095 3 years ago
rockbottomtv
newwineglory 3 years ago
microphone?
SalazarKST 3 years ago
Wireless
vargas095 3 years ago
Well good luck with that, you're paying a lot more and getting a 35mm groundglass. My groundglass is 2 1/4 x 1 5/8 almost 3 times the size. Would love to hear your thoughts on the Letus when y0u get it.
vargas095 3 years ago
Do you have a tutorial on how to make this? I'm thinking os possibly pimping out my camera. (I'm debating/comparing between the Sony HDR HC-1 and the Canon HV30 right now.)
UAC220 3 years ago
No I do not have a tutorial on this. I simply started putting it together and changing things as I went along until I was happy with the outcome. Never even put anything on paper.
vargas095 3 years ago
Get the HV30! ; )
PingaloBill 3 years ago
I want that adapter... But I think Im going with the letus 35a... Have fun with your sweet rig!
justcauseproductions 3 years ago
how did you make the viewfinder?
is the image corrected?
itisantarctica 3 years ago
The image is corrected or flipped, but not horizontally. The viewfinder is with a mirror which reflects the screen image and then the eye piece allows you to view it like a standard viewfinder. works great!
vargas095 3 years ago
handy.
smanettonipuntonet 3 years ago
Great work being able to have the knowledge a will to be able to put all of these components together I would love to see some footage , do you have any ?
cebro648 3 years ago
holy....ass...
Fir3starter319 3 years ago
that's pretty sad. first you won't shot anything second, by the time you WASTED time to build this and invest, you could rent RED camera and shoot your experiments on 4K.
rottenman2010 3 years ago
can you actually connect it to bigger camera parts?
molkoisgod 3 years ago
The depth of field adapter works will all camcorders with a filter thread on the lens from 37 to 82mm.
vargas095 3 years ago
hi can you please let me know what tipe of tape you are sapose to use for the hv20
flyestone420 3 years ago
Sorry for the delay in answering. The HV20 can use any DV tape preferrably Sony or Panasonic. You do not have to use HD tape to shoot in HD you can use high quality DV tape. I used Panasonic DVM63AMQ tape.
vargas095 3 years ago
Can you explain what each adapter does?
lazarus0202 3 years ago
oh my fuck.
johnnyq1992 3 years ago 2
Se ve poca madre, habria que ver como registra el video.
djmelucho 3 years ago
this is an outstanding set-up..wont lie about that. But, come to think of it, would it be just about the same (if not better) if the money spent on everything to baught on here, was used to buy a more prosumer camera?
EZA757 3 years ago
The only prosumer thing about a camera is the cameraman. A camera is a camera. They all have their limitations, my $35,000 DVCpro50 camera sits in storage now. Everyone wants HIdef. I actually find it too sharp and unrealistic and so do many of the talking heads in front of the camera.
vargas095 3 years ago
this my good man is one helluva customised piece of kit!! GOOD WORK!!
tayloredimages 3 years ago
do you work at adorama? i remember seeing the adapter there. problem with the rig is youd never be able to shoot indoors without a really huge lighting package, right? i mean the HV20 with adapter is around iso 64 or slower probably and then to be stuck using f2.8 or slower lenses that's got to be frustrating.
noahyv 3 years ago
Wrong. The fact that people claim that you need really fast lenses is wrong. F/2.8 has never been considered a slow lens. Youcan see the adapter at Adorama and I will be happy to show you under low light conditions. Look at the footage here on Youtube on my videos shot in Times Square at night with a 150mm F/4 lens.
vargas095 3 years ago
i was just suggesting that it would be difficult to shoot interiors at <iso64. what do you estimate is the amount of light lost with an f2.8 lens? was the times square footage shot with the HV20 or another camera? the signs which are light sources are well exposed but the people are a bit under. f2.8-4 isnt slow for medium format but compared to 35mm primes. thanks for posting the videos. im glad this product is available but i probably wouldnt use it due to fuzzy bokeh and light loss.
noahyv 3 years ago
How much money in upgrades was this?!
LogansRunning 3 years ago
This is all from stuff around the house except for the rails and quick release mount, and my medium format depth of field adapter that I build.
vargas095 3 years ago
There goes the famous Bokeh. I actually mentioned this word to a photographer with 40 years in the business and like myself he said what the hell is that? I have never in my 40 years in the business heard a photographer or Cinematographer ever said "I hate the Bokeh" The only lens that has a distinct out of focus look is the mirror lens. Everything else is pure nonsense. I've read a few decades of American Cinematographer and never saw the word. If you can find it please let me know.
vargas095 3 years ago
Sick!!! I LOVE gear!!!! Strong work, homey!
K9CRE8IV 3 years ago
Nice!
amornix 3 years ago
Im impressed, it looks very professional, good job on that.
bigXblackXc0ck 3 years ago
where can i buy a lens hood for my WD-H43 WIDE-CONVERTER
chinelo1 3 years ago
Dang! Nice work! Get an JVC GY110 HD You'll have a blast with it. I love mine.
chaucer44 3 years ago
I have a JVC GY110 as well and it's a great under rated camcorder. Does a beautiful job.
vargas095 3 years ago
Wow, nice looking pro HV20 ;)
vargas095, I want to buy a brevis35 adapter for my HV20 but I don't know which rail kit should I buy? (30cm, 45cm or 60cm) and also what Canon lens do you prefer? (Canon EF 50mm f1.4 or f1.8?). And also which is better, FD or EOS compatitible lense?
Sorry for my noob questions :D I'll be glad if you answer me. Thanks!!!
kingofskateop 3 years ago
Great. Was is the price of medium format adapter?
gendouuuu 3 years ago
The adapter is priced at $749.95
vargas095 3 years ago
you seem on steroids! lol. jk. but why would you buy an adapter for $745? It's $105 away from the HV20!
HallowMoonProduction 3 years ago
I have other cameras, and the look of the video with the adapter just enhances the camera. The adapter can be used with most camcorders.
vargas095 3 years ago
sweet!!!
perroxido20 3 years ago
Post some footage
LuvhandleR 3 years ago
footage is posted right here on youtube.
vargas095 3 years ago
i must say that viewfinder is a work opf genius
jaimedelgado 3 years ago
There's nothing original about it.. it really comes from the still camera days.
vargas095 3 years ago
how much did ALL of that cost?
TisimeFilms 3 years ago
Well there wasn't a heck of a lot for material, just lots of planing and changing. The only thing that would cost a bit is the eyepiece which came out of a Panasonic full size camera. It was a lot of fun making it. I will post the latest addition which is a carrying handle on the top.
vargas095 3 years ago
FUCK thats soo cool you should post it on _hv20.com_
TeeSav 3 years ago
Thanks for the info. I did post the information on the HV20 site.
vargas095 3 years ago
hey man I have the hv30
and 2 35mm adaptors a static and rotationary
my next diy ,like you is the follow along focus system
are you gonna post how you will make this??
or do u suggest any good links
Cool camera -canon is so sweet!
dannysuru 4 years ago
Names and numbers re this rig.
Thanks,HV20.
DevesterOner 4 years ago
SICK
dannysuru 4 years ago
wow pretty cool how much did that whole setup cost you
WaveTelevision 4 years ago
I built everything. The most expensive thing was the viewfinder eyepiece which came out of one of my large Panasonic cameras. I had an extra one. The next posting will be the additional modifications that have already been done. Stay tuned.
vargas095 4 years ago
Incredible
SDMagicMan 4 years ago
The follow focus system is next, It'a a must have.
vargas095 4 years ago
lol, i have yet to get an adapter for my hv20...any recommendations as to what kind of additions go well with the hv20?
SDMagicMan 4 years ago
I highly recommend a film adapter, after you get the adapter there will be many accessories that you'll need. Without an adapter the only thing I can think of is a wide angle lens.
vargas095 4 years ago
motherfucker!!!!!!!!!!!! amazing..........
videocorroncho 4 years ago
crazy people, how much? =)
PROMIX 4 years ago
The only real expense is film adapter, which I also build. The viewfinder was homemade except for the actual eyepiece which came out of Panasonic camera viewfinder. The lens support is a modified Bogen piece, that cost about $65.00. I sell the film adapter for $850.00 with medium format and 35mm lens mounts.
vargas095 3 years ago