Probe-Snorkel For DV Camera

Probe / Snorkel for a DV Camera...Is there such a thing for a DV camera? I’ve got a little project that requires close ups of small toys. Agency wants to shoot with an Xl1 or DVX-100. In the morning I’ll call around however, has anyone worked with such a device? What are my macro options for a 2/3” B4 mount video camera?

Thanks

Dave Winters

DP - L.A.

I’d imagine you could get the PL mount for the XL1 and mount any 35mm professional lens system you like.

Raoul Germain
DP
Los Angeles

Thank you Mr. Raul.

I priced out a Mini35 adaptor w Century snorkel package (XL1) or the Innovision Probe II (B4 mount). It is actually more cost effective to rent a 2/3” CCD camera and shoot with the Probe II. The Probe II appears to be the ideal package for the job.

Dave Winters
LA

The Probe II appears to be the ideal package for the job.

Dave,

Another alternative is the Revolution Snorkel lens. You can pan the lens during a move and the horizon will stay level. I used one on a B4 mount 2/3 chip camera and it looks great. We used a jib and dollied thru and around 1" high chess pieces. It comes with lots of lenses and angle set-ups. A very flexible piece of gear. CSC here in NYC has them.

AL Emer
Lighting Cameraman
Holmdel, NJ

You can also try high end minicams, connected straight onto the camera.

Very cost effective, they give you access to the most unusual locations.

Franz Pagot
Director of Photography/Underwater Cameraman

http://www.franzpagot.com

´¯`·.¸.·´¯`·...¸><(((º>

I've used every type of probe/periscope for years and had generally settle on the Revolution as the most versatile.

However, I'm currently shooting with the Optex Excellence system and I have to say that I've never seen image quality like it from a probe of any kind.

The rushes look amazing with the material we shot with Arri Macros being indistinguishable from the probe material and that really is a first!!

It also has a cool underwater housing.

Cheers

Geoff Boyle FBKS
Director of Photography
EU Based
www.cinematography.net

Yesterday went over to Innovision for a demo of the Probe II. Tomorrow I'll be shooting with the setup, I'll post the results this weekend. Thanks to everyone for the input.

Dave Winters
LA

Geoff Boyle writes
:
>The rushes look amazing with the material we shot with Arri Macros >being indistinguishable from the probe material and that really is a first!!

Only problem is every time we stick it under water we get flicker... needs an anti-caustic filter... then we'd have some footage we could use!

Nick Hoffman NYC DP

Hi,

I have used the EXCELLENCE on a commercial on the 12th November and I really liked it.

It's fast in aperture, easy and clean.

I have used Fraser, Innovision, Trex and the lot, but yours I have to say it's really good, if not the best.

I would not expect anything less from OPTEX.

Well done.

Franz Pagot
Director of Photography/Underwater Cameraman

Here is a quick follow-up to my original post. The spot was 2 kids playing with toys on a bedroom set. We shot last Friday on video (JVC D9 camera) with the Innovision Probe 2 (straight tube). Worked from a small jib with a regular fluid head, which gave me a minimum level lens height of about 20".

Next time I'll fight for a Weaver head and the periscope setup (Probe II+). Mark at Innovision gave a great one on one demo, leaving me totally confident.

Thanks again.

Dave Winters
L.A.