I have been spending some time experimenting with POV cameras as part of my documentary filmmaking equipment. These small cameras are limited in functionality and capabilities, and are generally marketed to consumers with passions for extreme sports. However, the wide angle lenses, HD quality video capture, small size, and relative obscurity make these cameras an interesting consideration for multi-cam or b-roll applications.
I am currently working with GoPro on a sponsorship deal for the One Life Project which should allow me to get my hands on two of the Hero POV cameras that GoPro is well-known for. In the meantime, I have been using a Contour ROAM camera which is somewhat more sleek and elegant than the GoPro. The Contour ROAM comes with a tripod mounting hole (standard 1/4″), a micro SD card slot (amazing that you can get 32Gb on one of these tiny cards) and 170 degree wide angle lens. The 32Gb card will allow up to 8 hours of 1080p HD video recording.
The Contour ROAM is easily switched on and off by sliding the broad switch on the top of the unit. The large switch allows for easy activation even with cold, numb hands, or when wearing gloves. The lens can be rotated allowing you to capture video at the angle you prefer, or to simply keep horizons level. One drawback is that, with the Contour ROAM, you cannot see what you are shooting. The wide angle is very forgiving in this way, but I am considering the purchase of the GPS-enabled Contour which includes a Bluetooth function that connects to Bluetooth-enabled iPad and iPhone apps. A convenient, Contour-supplied app then allows you to see what your camera is viewing on your iPad or iPhone – pretty cool.
As well as holding the Contour by hand, it comes with a variety of mounts for attaching to helmets or other hard, clean surfaces. The mount slides conveniently in to the grooves seen on the base of the Contour in the picture above. I have also tried attaching the Contour to a long pole, such as those available from Home Depot that are light and extend to 18 feet. These are great for getting interesting, wide-angle overhead shots, or for extending the camera in to or over areas that are otherwise hard to reach. The sound pick-up from the on-board microphone is poor although a recent firmware upgrade, meant to help with the audio quality, is yet to be tested.
Recorded files are saved in .mov format for immediate access via QuickTime, and easy importing in to most NLE systems.
At $199 for the Contour ROAM, it is a worthwhile addition to any camera kit that offers a new way of looking at common subjects.
Nice to see a review of POV cameras from a film makers persepective, there are so many sports blogs but they often don’t look at production quality and use for making film. I’m using a Drift HD170 Stealth at the moment (www.driftinnovation.com) and have been really impressed with the HD quality, plus I like the fact this one has a built in LCD screen and a remote; handy for positioning in awkward places!
Pingback: POV Cameras for Documentary Filmmaking « New Channel Media | Film Futures | Scoop.it