- Sony A7IV in video mode
- Video-quality SD card (V90)
- Video (fluid-head) tripod
- External on-camera shotgun microphone: improves quality of audio recorded with camera (replaces in-camera audio)
- Track E lavalier microphone (records separate audio track that you’ll sync later with video footage)
- Key light and/or flags, reflectors, etc.
- Neutral density (ND) filter for bright environments
- Slate (or you can clap)
To quickly view the settings enabled on the camera, press the Menu button on the back of the camera (top left). Then use the control wheel to select and view the Main > Main1 menu (see left). Click on a setting’s “tab” to view further options.
Currently selected (orange): This camera has PP8 (Picture Profile 8 – S-Log3) enabled, which is preferred for more advanced color-correction and color-grading workflows.
- 24p (frames per second) and 1/50 shutter for standard motion-blur.
- Aperture can vary – Low number for more light/blurry background; higher number for less light/deeper focus.
- Auto ISO
- Picture Profile 11 (S Cinetone) – unless you are planning to color grade your footage (see Advanced pane below).
- XAVC S 4K file format
- 100M 422 10bit (if available)
- Use touch-tracking to ensure your subject stays in focus.
- Audio Recording:
- Avoid using the camera’s built-in microphone.
- Ensure your external microphone is plugged in and turned on.
- Set audio recording levels in Recording menu.
- For dialogue, aim for -12 db.
- Monitor audio to ensure it’s working; record and play back.
- For best results, use the on-camera shotgun along with a lavalier microphone (see “Tentacle Mic Settings” tab above).
- Use Picture Profile 8 (S-Log 3) for maximum editing latitude. Requires a conversion in your video editing software.
- Download the Tentacle app on your smartphone.
- Ensure the microphone is set to 32-bit recording.
- Do a test recording and play it back for a quality check.
- Transfer recorded files from the microphone to a computer by using the included USB-C cable.
- Remember: these files will need to be synced to your video footage.
- For best results, use a slate (or clap!) after you start recording to help the software with the syncing process.
- Have you scouted your location?
- Have you gotten permission to use this location (if applicable)?
- Will you film outside or inside?
- If outside, what’s the weather forecast at the anticipated shoot time?
- Where will the sun be located (or move to) during your shoot time?
- Have you scheduled your interview(s) (if applicable)?
- Have you prepared your interview questions (if applicable)?
- Have you reserved your equipment?
- Have you tested your equipment and expected workflow?
- Will others assist you, or will you work alone?
- How much time will you need to set up and break down your equipment?
- Where will you store and back-up your files?
- Is your camera charged?
- Does it have a memory card with ample storage available?
- Is your on-camera microphone working?
- Check camera settings:
- Frame rate
- Shutter speed
- Picture profile
- Audio levels
- Do you have the lenses you will need?
- Will you need an ND filter?
- Will you need an external monitor?
- For long shoots: Do you have a backup camera, monitor, and/or MixPre battery? Charging cables for your devices?