Lights, Camera, ACTION! – Must-Have Car Filming Kit
February 29, 2020
Back in the day, photographs were king when it came to capturing moments in time that we could fondly look back on. And to a degree, and thanks to the advent of the smartphone, that’s still the case. Everybody has a high quality camera in their pocket, so there is nothing to stop us catching those special moments. Or in our case, those gorgeous classic cars. But why stop there? It’s 2020 and this is the age of video. Anyone can become a part-time Spielberg with enough practice. And there is so much kit out there, getting professional results is a doddle.
We’re not saying you should set up a YouTube channel or anything, though of course there is nothing to stop you. What we’re saying is that there’s a misconception that video is for the masses to see. It’s not though. There is nothing wrong with capturing a car show, track day or other motoring event for your own memories. So, what are you waiting for? Get this kit bought, and be on your way to capturing the classic car world from your point of view.
1) GoPro Hero 7
If you want video quality up to 4K, great sound and an interface that a five year-old could use, you can’t get much better than a GoPro. We have one which we use on our channel, and the results truly are excellent. You can film in wide angle, you can film in time lapse, the sensor can deal with low light, and the camera is splash-proof should the weather turn. GoPro makes the best out there. Get one of these, and you’ll be in love with everything you film.
2) Action Camera Extendable Arm
Look, we resent the term ‘selfie stick’ because selfies are for teenagers. However, that doesn’t mean the arm is of no use to the budding videographer. Again, it’s something in our kit and it’s brilliant for getting the GoPro up high or down low. You’ll be able to get some great angles and really give your footage some flare. And, if you absolutely must, you can use it to take selfies.
If you’ve got yourself an action camera, the chances are you’re going to want to record some action. Going on a track day, for example? Want to get the best angles and as such, the most dynamic footage? You’ll need a decent mount then, which is exactly what you’re looking at here. This suction mount will stick to the car without damage while holding the camera firm, meaning you get the best shots possible.
Maybe you don’t want to buy a GoPro, and instead you’d prefer to use the camera on your phone, and why not? It’s more than capable. However, there is no escaping the fact the footage can be a bit shaky. What you need is this camera stabiliser, which will smooth out your footage and give you professional pans, flawless angle changes and crystal clear turns. Using motors and a gyroscope, it takes all the bumps and bangs out of your movement. Very professional.
Once you have all your clips collected, you’re going to want to edit them into something watchable. For that, you need some editing software, and there is none better than Adobe Premiere Pro, which has become the industry standard for video editing. And because it’s so popular, the internet is awash with tutorials and guides to help beginners understand how the software works and how to get the most of it. And the best bit is that it will cost you a mere £20 a month. For the same kit they use to edit movies. Bargain.
