Low profile cams, any good quality ones out there?

shogo wrote on 6/5/2004, 11:58 PM

I just shot a wedding at an Episcopal church and I could not get a cam that would show the groom or brides face because of the preachers rules. I ended up getting the back shot and a direct side view and was unable to get any of there faces during the wedding. The reason the preacher wouldn't allow a camera sitting behind him even unmanned was beyond me but anyways.

I would like a small camera that I could wall mount or sit atop of something that would not be noticeable at all. I know they have those little spy cams and stuff but I need a good camera that can approach a 3CCD level type cam to cut between my XL1s and GL2, I know it won't be that quality but something that wouldn't look like a surveillance cam either.

That way when I get another situation like that I can still get the shot.

Comments

RalphM wrote on 6/6/2004, 3:43 PM

I think trying to sneak in a camcorder is probably not the best approach. You could end up banned form the entire ceremony.

You are likely suffering the results of some previous videographer being a big distraction in the chancel area, maybe showing up with a large shoulder mounted pro camera.

Since either the bride's or groom's family are almost always members of the church, enlisting their help would be a better approach. Even if they are not successful, at least they will understand the limitations under wich you are working.

NaperRick wrote on 6/6/2004, 3:48 PM

How smalll does it need to be - How about a Pansonic GS-70 (or GS 200) pretty small and 3CCD

Rick

farss wrote on 6/6/2004, 4:09 PM

For really small and good quality look at PC110, we've had a PC100 do many hours of service on the dashboard of a fighter-bomber. Only single CCD but the images are brilliant, probably better than any of these bottom end 3 CCD cameras, might have something to do with the quality of the lens me thinks.

wcoxe1 wrote on 6/6/2004, 7:51 PM

The PC-100, 110, 120, will probably work better than most small 3-chip camcorders in very low light. Consider that, and the profile of the unit will allow it to be strapped flat against a door frame or a table or what-ever where it will be nearly impossible to see. Show it to the family, then go with them to the minister and show it to him. Works ALMOST every time.