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Multicam productions have become more popular than ever, thanks to the extremely low cost of camera gear and easy intergration into video editing apps. Even still, many producers attempting multicam for the first time aren't able to get it right.

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While the thought of setting up a multicam shoot can be daunting to producers/directors who have never done it before, knowing how to do it right has some massive benefits. Not only do multicam setups help keep time on-set to a minimum (and therefore also keep the budget down too), but they can also provide creative freedoms that aren't otherwise offered by single camera environments. For instance, if you are directing a comedy and want to allow your actors to improvise, a multicam setup would be ideal so that you can catch all of the spontaneity, while also having enough coverage to cut together the scene cohesively in post.

Whether you're interested in shooting multicam as a means to keep your budget down, to give you actors more freedom, or you simply have no other choice – this article will go over a few considerations for getting started with multicam shooting.

Camera Placement

The very first thing you need to address with your multicam set up is the placement of your cameras themselves. I have seen some huge mistakes made with regards to camera placement in low-budget multicam situations, and the end result always ends up looking sub par.

If you want to achieve professional level results with your shoot, you need to make sure that you are optimizing your coverage. In other words, if you are shooting a scene with two actors and you have 3 cameras on them – you probably want a close up on each actor, and then a wide/medium master shot. This may sound obvious, but you probably wouldn't believe some of the poorly executed camera placements that I've seen over the years. For instance, in a situation like the example above, I have seen setups where the director wanted all three cameras roaming (as opposed to locked off on each of the different actors) and ultimately it defeated the purpose of shooting with a 3 camera setup. As you might imagine, when it got time to edit the scene it was extremely difficult for the filmmakers to cut together all three angles as they often were too similar looking to intercut. This doesn't mean you can't get creative with your multicam setups, but rather that you make sure you are never doubling up on coverage, regardless of the creative choices that are made.

Lighting

The manner in which you and/or your DP approach your lighting setup also needs to change drastically from what you may be used to in single camera situations. When shooting with one camera, your setup naturally only matters for the particular angle and take that you are executing, and when you go in for coverage you can make small adjustments to your lights (such as walking in a key or fill) as needed. With multi-camera lighting though, everything changes.

The easiest way to get the look that you're after while maintaining visual consistency is by setting up your lights much in the same way that a stage play or a sitcom is set up. To clarify – I'm not suggesting that you make creative choices that will make your final product look like a play or sitcom, but rather that you make rigging and logistical choices in that same way. For example, lighting from above (by rigging lights to a ceiling or grid) would be hugely preferable over lighting using traditional stands. The reason of course being that when rigged to the ceiling, the lights are completely out of the way and you can shoot in nearly any direction that you want. Lighting your set this way will inevitably take more time up front – so be prepared for some extra time pre-lighting, but in the end it will completely balance out as you will save loads of time once you start rolling.

Matching The Cameras

Amongst the most common and problematic issue that arises on multicam setups (particularly on low budget indie films) are mismatched cameras. In many instances, small productions don't want to rent two or three identical cameras, so they mix and match various cameras that they have access to in order to supplement their multicamera setup. While this can be done and in some circumstances you can get away with it, I would highly advise against mixing cameras whenever possible. In an ideal world, you want every camera to be the exact make and model, or at the very least the same brand. For example a Canon 5D MK II and a Canon 7D will match a lot better than a 7D and a Lumix GH4 since Canon and Lumix use completely different firmware and color science.

Even if you are shooting on identical cameras, you still need to be extremely diligent when it comes to your settings (camera profiles, shutter angle, white balance, etc.) as any slight difference in your camera settings can cause some big headaches in post. And unless you are a professional colorist, or have it in your budget to hire one, you'll want to avoid making any mistakes in post that can cost you some serious time and money down the road.

Multicam in Popular Video Editing Apps

PremiumBeat friend Chris Fenwick goes over the basics of multicam in Final Cut Pro X in this video tutorial:

Infinite Skills provides a similar explanation for multicam in Adobe Premiere Pro:

Sony Vegas user? Michael Hurwicz demonstrates a multicam workflow for Sony Vegas over at Creative Cow:

Finally, our own Ashley Kennedy gives a 2 step tutorial on multicam in Avid Media Composer on the PremiumBeat blog: Part 1 and Part 2

Final Thoughts

Shooting multicam isn't right for every project, but when time is of the essence and budgets are low, it can be a fantastic way to save money and allow you to move quickly without sacrificing quality. In order to do it right, you need to place your cameras strategically, have a rock solid lighting setup, and make sure that you are using cameras that match as closely as possible. Also, be prepared to spend some extra time up front on rigging/pre-lighting days, and know that investing your time in prep will help you immensely once principal photography commences.

There are a great many ways to photograph and film your hunt; some people like a gun mounted camera, while others favor setting up a static camera near their blind or in their tree stand in order to record those thrilling moments leading up to a successful kill.

However you want to do it though, it is clear there are about thirty seven million different cameras on the market, and not all of them are suitable for filming hunts. Some just can't handle the weather, others just are pure junk. There is little time to fiddle with settings or adjust a camera in the middle of a hunt, so you need something you can set and forget.

We've found four, ranging from gun mounted to more traditional cameras. Take a look and see if you agree that these are the best hunting action cameras for you.

GoPro Plus Mount

No review of cameras for taking pictures while hunting is complete without the ever popular GoPro. These absurdly rugged and reliable cameras are designed to be used under extreme conditions and can even survive underwater use. While a bit blocky and not quite streamlined to match up with the traditional shape of many firearms accessories, when used with a special barrel mount, a GoPro is overall probably the best camera for filming hunts.

This particular GoPro has extremely high resolution filming capabilities, includes a remote control (ideal for turning your camera on or off if you are sitting in a blind and getting ready to setup a shot) and in general is a (all caps, if you'd notice) Really Nice Camera. Mount it on your rifle or shotgun, or just attach to your vest, and you can make your own live hunting video.

Sony Digital Camcorder

Tv Serial Shooting Cameras

Here is a fantastic bargain on a digital camcorder that is quite suitable for filming hunts. With a wide angle Ziess lens, image stabilization, 30x optical and 60x digital zoom and more, this camera shoots 9.2MP images, making it perfect for taking on your next hunt, or really for any camcorder use. This is about perfect for setting up near a tree stand or blind, or simply your favorite spot to hunker down waiting for game. This modestly priced camera comes as a complete ready to use kit with tripod, memory card and connecting cables, making it a turn key proposition.

Tactacam Camera

The Tactacam is a high-end sports camera that's designed to be as hard and as rugged as you are. It has a one-touch operation for simplicity of use and quick on/off capability. It features up to an 8X zoom, and this allows you to bring the hunt to you. The camera comes with image stabilization software that maintains a clean and concise image as the gun fires and recoils.

Tv Serial Shooting Camera Price

The Tactacam shoots in 4K and can connect directly to your phone, and you can even stream your hunts. The Tactacam 5.0 comes with an optional kit that makes it easy to mount the camera of your rifle, bow, or shotgun to record every deer, bird, and hog hunt you go on. Hands down, it's one of the best hunting action cameras for the money.

iON CamoCam

Tv Serial Shooting Camera Tripod

It clamps to your gun, it has Realtree camo, takes 14 megapixel still images, records for 2.5 hours, and is waterproof up to 10 meters. Which is why you should buying the iOn CamoCam for filming your next hunt. Reasonably priced, designed with hunters and outdoorsmen in mind. It's at home on plain guns as well as camouflaged turkey guns. This camera has basically everything you'd want on a gun camera and no price boosting frills and gimmicks you might not want.

The manner in which you and/or your DP approach your lighting setup also needs to change drastically from what you may be used to in single camera situations. When shooting with one camera, your setup naturally only matters for the particular angle and take that you are executing, and when you go in for coverage you can make small adjustments to your lights (such as walking in a key or fill) as needed. With multi-camera lighting though, everything changes.

The easiest way to get the look that you're after while maintaining visual consistency is by setting up your lights much in the same way that a stage play or a sitcom is set up. To clarify – I'm not suggesting that you make creative choices that will make your final product look like a play or sitcom, but rather that you make rigging and logistical choices in that same way. For example, lighting from above (by rigging lights to a ceiling or grid) would be hugely preferable over lighting using traditional stands. The reason of course being that when rigged to the ceiling, the lights are completely out of the way and you can shoot in nearly any direction that you want. Lighting your set this way will inevitably take more time up front – so be prepared for some extra time pre-lighting, but in the end it will completely balance out as you will save loads of time once you start rolling.

Matching The Cameras

Amongst the most common and problematic issue that arises on multicam setups (particularly on low budget indie films) are mismatched cameras. In many instances, small productions don't want to rent two or three identical cameras, so they mix and match various cameras that they have access to in order to supplement their multicamera setup. While this can be done and in some circumstances you can get away with it, I would highly advise against mixing cameras whenever possible. In an ideal world, you want every camera to be the exact make and model, or at the very least the same brand. For example a Canon 5D MK II and a Canon 7D will match a lot better than a 7D and a Lumix GH4 since Canon and Lumix use completely different firmware and color science.

Even if you are shooting on identical cameras, you still need to be extremely diligent when it comes to your settings (camera profiles, shutter angle, white balance, etc.) as any slight difference in your camera settings can cause some big headaches in post. And unless you are a professional colorist, or have it in your budget to hire one, you'll want to avoid making any mistakes in post that can cost you some serious time and money down the road.

Multicam in Popular Video Editing Apps

PremiumBeat friend Chris Fenwick goes over the basics of multicam in Final Cut Pro X in this video tutorial:

Infinite Skills provides a similar explanation for multicam in Adobe Premiere Pro:

Sony Vegas user? Michael Hurwicz demonstrates a multicam workflow for Sony Vegas over at Creative Cow:

Finally, our own Ashley Kennedy gives a 2 step tutorial on multicam in Avid Media Composer on the PremiumBeat blog: Part 1 and Part 2

Final Thoughts

Shooting multicam isn't right for every project, but when time is of the essence and budgets are low, it can be a fantastic way to save money and allow you to move quickly without sacrificing quality. In order to do it right, you need to place your cameras strategically, have a rock solid lighting setup, and make sure that you are using cameras that match as closely as possible. Also, be prepared to spend some extra time up front on rigging/pre-lighting days, and know that investing your time in prep will help you immensely once principal photography commences.

There are a great many ways to photograph and film your hunt; some people like a gun mounted camera, while others favor setting up a static camera near their blind or in their tree stand in order to record those thrilling moments leading up to a successful kill.

However you want to do it though, it is clear there are about thirty seven million different cameras on the market, and not all of them are suitable for filming hunts. Some just can't handle the weather, others just are pure junk. There is little time to fiddle with settings or adjust a camera in the middle of a hunt, so you need something you can set and forget.

We've found four, ranging from gun mounted to more traditional cameras. Take a look and see if you agree that these are the best hunting action cameras for you.

GoPro Plus Mount

No review of cameras for taking pictures while hunting is complete without the ever popular GoPro. These absurdly rugged and reliable cameras are designed to be used under extreme conditions and can even survive underwater use. While a bit blocky and not quite streamlined to match up with the traditional shape of many firearms accessories, when used with a special barrel mount, a GoPro is overall probably the best camera for filming hunts.

This particular GoPro has extremely high resolution filming capabilities, includes a remote control (ideal for turning your camera on or off if you are sitting in a blind and getting ready to setup a shot) and in general is a (all caps, if you'd notice) Really Nice Camera. Mount it on your rifle or shotgun, or just attach to your vest, and you can make your own live hunting video.

Sony Digital Camcorder

Tv Serial Shooting Cameras

Here is a fantastic bargain on a digital camcorder that is quite suitable for filming hunts. With a wide angle Ziess lens, image stabilization, 30x optical and 60x digital zoom and more, this camera shoots 9.2MP images, making it perfect for taking on your next hunt, or really for any camcorder use. This is about perfect for setting up near a tree stand or blind, or simply your favorite spot to hunker down waiting for game. This modestly priced camera comes as a complete ready to use kit with tripod, memory card and connecting cables, making it a turn key proposition.

Tactacam Camera

The Tactacam is a high-end sports camera that's designed to be as hard and as rugged as you are. It has a one-touch operation for simplicity of use and quick on/off capability. It features up to an 8X zoom, and this allows you to bring the hunt to you. The camera comes with image stabilization software that maintains a clean and concise image as the gun fires and recoils.

Tv Serial Shooting Camera Price

The Tactacam shoots in 4K and can connect directly to your phone, and you can even stream your hunts. The Tactacam 5.0 comes with an optional kit that makes it easy to mount the camera of your rifle, bow, or shotgun to record every deer, bird, and hog hunt you go on. Hands down, it's one of the best hunting action cameras for the money.

iON CamoCam

Tv Serial Shooting Camera Tripod

It clamps to your gun, it has Realtree camo, takes 14 megapixel still images, records for 2.5 hours, and is waterproof up to 10 meters. Which is why you should buying the iOn CamoCam for filming your next hunt. Reasonably priced, designed with hunters and outdoorsmen in mind. It's at home on plain guns as well as camouflaged turkey guns. This camera has basically everything you'd want on a gun camera and no price boosting frills and gimmicks you might not want.

Tv Serial Shooting Camera Megapixels

The Best Hunting Action Camera – Filming Hunts

Tv Serial Shooting Camera Wireless

There are a lot of great ways to film your hunt, including setting up large cameras on tripods or other mounts. Being able to view a hunt from a first person perspective not only makes it exciting for anyone else watching the footage, but it is a good way to study your own technique and to see what you might do better the next time. As an added bonus, in this litigious day and age, the same camera you use for hunting might be mounted on your self defense shotgun and be used to document a self defense action.

If you choose to go with a more traditional camera setup, you gain the advantage of giving viewers a third person view of the action, and can also provide additional footage to supplant a gun mounted camera, allowing for the chance to edit together a really compelling hunting video. On top of that, using a traditional camcorder allows for a partner to rapidly change angles or focus when things get interesting. What I like best about setting up a camcorder is that you get a far higher quality picture and sound quality than you will from any gun mounted camera, and will not ruin filming the actual killing of the game with recoil and muzzle blast, allowing a proper documentation of the hunt.

The main concern with hanging a camera off your gun (well maybe other than a GoPro that is built for hard duty) is ensuring that it lasts more than one or two trips. Recoil is a thing, after all, and it can take a harsh toll on a camera. Pick a camera that is marketed for use on a gun, that all but ensures the manufacturer is prepared to support that device in a hard use setting. Most cameras should ship with both Picatinny rail and barrel/magazine tube adapters that allow for mounting on almost any position desired on the gun.

Once you've chosen best hunting action camera you could afford, place it where you want it and that's pretty much it. There is little else to do, save to charge the battery and make sure it is turned on when you are out hunting. Picking the right camera for filming hunts is mostly a matter of budget and degree of hard use. Pick the one best suited to your needs and enjoy it! Good luck!

Owner of Reloaderaddict.com, Boyd Smith is a major handgun enthusiast, and although he owns Glocks, he prefers the revolving wheel type. His go-to guns are a Smith & Wesson 642 Performance Center for carry and a Ruger GP100 in the nightstand biometric safe (he has kids). He loads both revolvers with old-school 148-grain Federal Gold Medal .38 wadcutters. It's OK if you think he's a wimp. Email him.