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      How to use the Shootsta Kit (2023)

      Get started filming with Kit 4.0

      Welcome to this article on how to use Kit. Inside you will find everything you need to know about to set up and film great video content. Please note that everyone’s Kit might look slightly different so if you have any questions that are not answered here please reach out to us via Live Chat so we can make sure you have all the information you need.

       

       

      What’s inside Kit?

      Here is a list of everything included inside Kit:

      • Sony ZV-E1 with 24-105mm lens f/4

      • 2x spare camera batteries

      • Camera battery Charger

      • 128gb SDXC card

      • Camera mic windshield

      • SD card reader to USB-C

      • Peak Design tripod

      • Teleprompter

      • Teleprompter lens ring adaptors

      • Earbuds

      • Alcohol Wipes

      • Rode Wireless GO II/ Wireless PRO + 2 lavalier mics and accessories

      • Aputure LED Light with accessories

      • Light ball head

      • Camera strap

      • Wall charger + power bank

       

       

      How to set up Kit

       

       

      Step 1: Set up the Tripod and Camera

      • Open the latches of the tripod and adjust its height to your preference.

      • Ensure all legs are the same length, then lock the latches in place.

      • For extra height, unlock the centre column by pulling the knob forward and twisting it. Adjust to the desired height.

      • There are two rings on the tripod head: one adjusts the angle, and the other secures your camera. Simply twist to loosen the ring and twist in the opposite direction to tighten.

      • To mount your camera on the tripod, turn the top ring to unlock, push down the lever, place the baseplate on the tripod, and lock it in by releasing the lever.

      • Use the attached allen key to tighten the baseplate if needed.

       

      Step 2: Set up the Audio

      • Remove the cold shoe cover on your camera and take out the wireless audio gear from the Kit.

      • Attach the receiver to the camera's hot shoe by pinching the clip and sliding it in.

      • Plug the red cable from the audio pouch into the red jack on your camera and the side of the receiver.

      • For audio monitoring, plug headphones into the black jack after opening the bottom door.

         

      Step 3: Set up the Autocue

      • Place your lens on top of the teleprompter and screw gently till the teleprompter is attached.

      • With the autocue firmly attached, gently pull it open. This will reveal the screen where your script will appear, aiding you in delivering your lines flawlessly.

      • Depending on the angle of your camera and your setup, adjust the glass of the teleprompter to ensure clear visibility of the script.

      • If needed, you can remove the teleprompter and adaptor ring by pressing down on the two tabs below where the lens sits.

       

      Remember to pack the equipment properly, securing the phone mount inside the centre column, and return all tools to their place in the Kit.

       

       

       

      How to set up Kit with your mobile phone

       

       

      Step 1: set up the tripod

      • Similarly to the previous video, grab out your tripod and set it up.

      • Pull down on the finger holds and twist. Then place it on the tripod by pulling down the baseplate lock.

      • Pull the clip to your desired height and place your phone inside. Remember to put the place the phone mount back inside the tripod, pushing the hook back inside, twisting and locking in place.

       

      Step 2: Set up the Audio

      • To set up your audio on your phone start with taking out the receiver from its case. Instead of using the red auxiliary cable, take out either the USB C to Lightning or USB C to USB C cable, depending on your mobile device, and plug it into both the receiver and your phone.

      • Clip the receiver onto your phone.

      • Mic your talent up with your transmitter and lapel mic and you’re good to go.

       

      When recording audio on your phone, it is very important to listen back to ensure your audio sounds great since you don’t have headphones to monitor.

      If you find that the audio on your phone sounds very distorted, simply lower the gain on your receiver.

       

      This is done by pressing the DB button till you see the screen say -24 or -18db. This will lower the audio coming to your phone and remove distortion.

       

      If you’ve already recorded and only noticed later that your audio is distorted, never fear!

       

      There is a backup recording of your audio living inside your transmitter. Simply plug into your computer, download the Rode Central app, press the transmitter and export a copy of the audio file of your choice.

       

       

       

      Get to know the Sony ZV-E1 camera

       

       

      Turn the camera on

      To power up the Sony ZV-E1, locate the on/off switch on the top of the handle and flick it on. Now you're ready to start capturing!

       

      Navigating the touch screen

      The camera features a user-friendly touch screen that grants you easy access to various settings and menus. In the top-left corner, you'll find essential indicators like audio levels, autofocus, standby, and battery charge icon. At the bottom, you can explore settings for shutter speed, aperture, ISO, and white balance, which are all set to auto by default. In the top left-hand corner of the screen, you'll see a record button along with focus, zoom, and other fun settings.

       

      Exploring Ports and Doors

      On the left side of the camera, you'll discover three doors hiding the camera's ports. The top door reveals the audio jack and a USB C port for charging, while the one below contains the SD card slot where your footage will be stored.

       

      The bottom door houses your headphone jack and micro HDMI port for connecting monitors or accessories.

       

      For accessing the battery, find the battery door underneath the camera. Simply pull the latch down, press the blue tab, and the battery will slide out. Remember to insert the battery back the same way you found it, and lock the door in place.

       

      Mastering the Buttons

      The Sony ZV-E1 features several buttons that enhance your shooting experience.

       

      Just below the power button, you'll find the record button to start filming. You’ll also see the defocus button which lets you toggle between focused and blurry backgrounds. There is a zoom rocker that you can use to zoom in an extra 50%.

      To switch between photo, video, and slow-motion mode, use the toggle switch. For verifying focus, press the C2 button to magnify the screen for a better look. Additionally, you'll find menu, display, and playback buttons for further customization.

       

      Understanding Focus and Autofocus

      To select a subject to focus on and track, tap the screen where you want to focus. Press the middle button on the back of the camera to stop tracking.

       

      For the lens, you can enable stabilisation, leaving it on for smoother shots. Additionally, you can use the autofocus/manual focus switch if you prefer to manually focus -however, we recommend leaving it on AF for ease of use.

       

       

      How to record audio

       

       

      Setting Up Your Audio Equipment

      Before you start recording, it's crucial to properly set up your audio gear. Follow these steps to get started:

      • Begin by removing the cold shoe cover from your camera.

      • Take out the wireless audio gear from Kit, which includes two transmitters and a receiver.

      • Attach the receiver (the one with the screen) to your camera's hot shoe. Pinch the clip on the back and slide it securely into place.

      • Open the top door of your camera to access the audio input. Connect the red cable from the audio pouch into the red jack on your camera and plug the other end into the side of the receiver.

      • To monitor audio, open the bottom door and plug a pair of headphones into the black jack.

       

      Mic Setup for the Presenter

      Now it's time to mic up your presenter. You have two options for this:

      • Use the inbuilt mic on the transmitter by clipping it to their clothes.

      • For a more professional approach, opt for the lapel mic. Clip it onto their collar or jacket and discreetly run the wire underneath their clothing.

      • Connect the lapel mic's end into your transmitter.

       

      Turning Everything On

      Once your setup is complete, it's time to power on the equipment:

      • Hold down the "O" button on both your transmitter and receiver for a few seconds until they light up and power on.

      • If you need to record two people, grab the second transmitter and mic them up in the same way

       

      Monitoring Your Audio

      Monitoring your audio is essential to ensure the best results. You have two ways to do this:

      • Use headphones to listen to what's being recorded. The headphone jack is located behind the bottom door on the left side of your camera. We recommend bringing your own headphones when filming but in a pinch there are a pair of earbuds inside the Kit along with alcohol wipes to ensure they’re kept clean.

      • Pay attention to the audio metre in the top left-hand corner of your screen. To adjust the audio levels, press the "fn" button and tap the mic icon.

       

      Recording two People

      If you are looking to record two people, give each person one of the transmitters along with a lapel mic, repeating the steps above. Both presenters' audio will be mixed into a single audio track so set your audio levels.

       

      Back Up Audio

      Each of your transmitters record your audio separately - so if you ever need the audio track then to add to your project follow these steps:

      1. Download the Rode Central application to your computer. This can be downloaded here.[https://rode.com/en/software/rode-central]

      2. Plug your transmitter that your talent was connected to, into your computer.

      3. Open the Rode Central App and select you the transmitter

      4. You will see all the recordings listed. Your transmitter will record automatically when both the transmitter and receiver are switched on. You can see this in the little REC icon on the screen of your receiver. Your transmitter will be able to store 24 hours worth of recordings before it starts to write over previously recorded takes so be sure to back up any recordings you think you need.

      5. Once you’ve selected the recording, click export.

      6. Upload the audio file(s) into your Shootsta project

       

      Common reasons you might need this backup recording:

      1. Your audio levels are set too loud or too quiet.

      2. You have multiple presenters recorded who speak at different volumes.

      3. Combine multiple Rode Wireless GO II’s together to record multiple presenters.

       

       

       

      How to focus the camera

       

       

       

      Zoom In to Verify Focus

      While the camera's autofocus is fantastic for most scenarios, it's always a good idea to double-check your focus to be certain. To do this, follow these steps:

      • Press the c2 button on your camera.

      • Use the scroll wheel to move the orange box over your subject.

      • Press c2 again to magnify the image.

      • Examine the magnified image to ensure your subject is perfectly in focus.

      • Press c2 again to return to your normal view.

       

      Utilise Peaking for Precision

      Peaking is a handy feature that outlines objects in focus with coloured lines, providing a quick visual confirmation. To enable peaking, follow these steps:

      • Access the menu and scroll down to "Peaking Display" in the purple AF MF section.

      • Toggle the feature on.

      • Customise the colour and intensity of the peaking display to your preference.

      • The more coloured lines on an object, the sharper it is in focus.

       

      Quick Fixes for Focus Issues

      In case you notice any focus issues while recording, don't worry! Here are two methods to fix it swiftly:

      • Use Touch Focus: Simply touch the screen where you want the camera to focus, and it will track the subject.

      • Manual Focus: Toggle the switch on your lens from AF to MF, and manually adjust the focus using the focusing ring on your lens. While this method might require some practice, it provides precise control over focus.

       

       

       

      How to use the light

       

       

      Before we dive into the technical details, let's cover the basics. This light is not designed to be your main source of light but rather ideal for filling in shadows on your subject's face.

      To achieve the best results, position the light above your subject's eye line, avoiding direct eye contact with the light during recording.

       

      To turn on the light, hold the power button for a few seconds. You can use the red wheel to cycle through menu options and can be pressed to select one.

       

      Understanding the Menus

       

      The most important option is intensity or INT. Once selected, you can adjust the lights output. Pressing the button again and scrolling down to CCT will allow you to change the colour temperature from blue to orange. The goal is to match the colour of light on your subject. Most lights are between 4500-5600K so when in doubt leave it at that.

      Pressing Menu will take you to a number of options. CCT is what we just discussed and is what you need to have selected for most use-cases.

       

      The other menu options are for you to get more creative with different colours and effects.

      HSI and RGB both allow you to choose any custom colour each in a different way.

      Source allows you to choose what light source to mimic.

      FX allows you to choose from a range of different dynamic light sources such as lightning, club lights, candles, etc.

       

      Pressing the menu again will take you back to the start.

       

      Accessories

       

      The light and light stand are magnetic so can be mounted in a number of creative ways. Light Stands can be paired nicely with this light, allowing you to set it up wherever you need.

       

      There are 3 magnetic light modifiers available to you. The thin clear diffusion and larger rounded diffusion can be used separately or combined to soften your light and minimise harsh shadows on your subject. The black honeycomb grid helps focus your light in the event you don’t want light being more dispersed. A little more of a niche piece of gear but can be helpful in a pinch.

       

       

       

      How to capture time-lapse's and slow motion

       

       

      One of the great features of the camera in this Kit is the ability to capture time-lapses and slow motion.

      To capture either, flick the switch at the top of the camera to S&Q. You will come to a "Shoot Mode screen". The top option is to select Slow Motion and moving down selects timelapse.

       

      Selecting slow motion will allow you to record like normal except when you play it back it will be slowed down.

      For timelapse, set it up on the tripod and press record. It will automatically begin capturing and provide you with a timelapse video when you press stop.

       

      You can choose how slow you want your footage to be by changing the frame rate in the menu.

       

      Remember to change the camera from S&Q back to video mode so the next person using the camera doesn't accidentally film their entire video in slow motion.

       

       

       

       

      How to fly with Kit

       

       

       

      Before you get onboard your next flight, there are 3 things you need to know about when flying with the kit.

       

      Firstly, the Kit weighs approximately 12kg or 26lb meaning for most flights it’s best to check in your luggage rather than trying to take it aboard.

       

      Secondly, it’s always a good idea to lock your kit to keep it safe. To lock it safely, thread the lock through the metal eyelets and secure it. Remember the code to your lock before securing.

       

      Lastly, remember to take out spare batteries, Rode charging case and power bank before checking your luggage in. Best to leave them inside your bag that you take onboard with you.

       

       

       

      How to upload the footage from the camera to Shootsta

       

       

       

      1. Remove the SD Card

      Start by taking out the SD card from your camera. Locate the SD card slot behind the middle door on your camera. Gently pull the latch forward to open the door and then push the SD card in to pop it out.

       

      Alternatively you can plug the camera into your computer and use it like a USB device. Just remember to turn it on.

       

      2. Connect the SD Card Reader to Your Computer

      Grab the SD card reader from the Kit and plug it into your computer. Once connected, the device should be recognized, allowing you to access and view the footage you last captured.

       

      3. Create a New Project on Shootsta

      Next, navigate to Shootsta and create a new project. Give it a descriptive name, ensuring easy identification.

       

      4. Upload Your Footage and Brief

      In the newly created project, upload your footage from the SD card and any relevant brief or instructions to guide the editing process.

       

      5. Submit the Project for Editing

      With everything uploaded and ready, simply submit the project for editing. Now, our team can work their magic and turn your raw footage into a polished and professional video.

       

      6. Safely Store the SD Card

      Remember to insert the SD card back into your camera once the footage has been safely transferred. Keep in mind that it's best not to delete the footage from the SD card until you've either received the completed video from us or have backed it up somewhere else. Safety first!

       

      By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and secure process for uploading your footage and avoid any potential loss or mishaps. With your footage safely in the hands of our skilled editors, you can eagerly anticipate the final product and prepare to share your captivating video with the world.

       

       

       

      How to delete footage and format the SD card

       

       

       

      Formatting allows you to delete all the footage on the SD card so it is ready to be used to film more video.

       

      Access the Menu

      Begin by accessing the menu on your camera. Scroll either up or down until you reach "Number 2 Media" in the red section of the menu.

       

      Formatting the SD Card

      With "Number 2 Media" selected, proceed to format the SD card. Formatting will erase all data on the card and prepare it for future use.

       

      Exercise Caution

      Before you proceed with the format, it's crucial to exercise caution. Double-check that you have already backed up all the footage on the SD card to a secure location. Ensure that you have no further need for the data stored on the card, as formatting will erase it permanently.

       

       

       

       

      How to charge Kit

       

       

      There are a number of things inside your Kit that need to be charged. These include:

      • Rode Wireless GO II’s/ PRO and their charging case

      • Camera plus the spare battery

      • Power bank

      • Light

       

      Charging the power bank

       

      To charge the power bank, simply plug in the USB-C cable and connect it to power.

       

      Charging the Rode Wireless audio system

       

      The Rode Wireless audio system charges inside their case. Please note that they each have their own place with the receiver, marked RX going in the spot marked RX and the transmitters, marked TX, going in the remaining two. There is a USB C port in the back of the charging case to connect to power.

       

      Charging Your Camera

      The camera batteries can be charged either by plugging the camera into power via the USB C cable or by placing the batteries into the battery cradle

       

      To charge the batteries:

      • Pop open the top door on the left-hand side of your camera.

      • Plug the provided wall charger into the camera.

      • Let it charge until the battery is fully replenished.

       

      For added convenience, you have a spare battery and battery cradle at your disposal. This means you can swap out the depleted battery with a fully charged one and keep shooting without any interruptions.

       

      To be camera-ready for your next shooting session, make it a habit to charge your camera after every shoot. This not only ensures your equipment is always prepared but also helps the person using the camera after you to have a smooth recording experience.

       

       

       

      Pixel Remapping

      Pixel Remapping is a pop-up that will appear when you turn the camera on from time to time. If you see it, just follow the steps on screen and you'll be back to filming in no time!

       

      If you see this pop up don’t panic! Just follow the steps on screen. If you don’t have time to do it, don’t be concerned. Simply press cancel.

       

       

      Need help or have questions? Get in touch, we’d love to help.