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E-M1 for kids' dance recital video?

Started May 13, 2015 | Questions thread
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Barry Stewart
Barry Stewart Veteran Member • Posts: 9,147
E-M1 for kids' dance recital video?

I have been asked if I'm interested in doing a video of a local dance group. I used to do lots of digital video in the early 2000s — but my dedicated gear is out of date.

I DO have my E-M1, though. I'm happy to use it for short clips… but am hesitant to say YES to this project, as I haven't tried it in that kind of situation.

Does anyone here have experience that they can share?

Lighting would be indoor on a dedicated semi-pro performance stage… so better than a school stage — but nowhere near "outdoor." ISO 1600?

My main concern is focus. I'd like to rely on continuous AF… but I don't want it wandering off on its own, as I fear it would.
Zoom: I know zooming while taping is generally frowned upon — but with a one-camera shoot during a live performance, you don't have many options. I prefer the smoothness and feathering control of power-zoom, but only have manual-zoom lenses. If I live-zoom, will the E-M1's focus be able to keep up?

Audio: I'd back it up with a separate audio recorder and use a wired off-camera mic into the camera.

Tripod: yes.

I COULD go out and buy a GH4… though this job would only pay a few $100. It's more of a volunteer-plus-a-stipend assignment. If I can do a creditable job with my current gear, I'd like to avoid the GAS for now.

Thanks!

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Barry

 Barry Stewart's gear list:Barry Stewart's gear list
Olympus E-1 Olympus E-M1 Olympus E-M5 II Olympus Zuiko Digital ED 50mm 1:2.0 Macro Olympus Zuiko Digital ED 50-200mm 1:2.8-3.5 SWD +6 more
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Olympus E-M1 Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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