ASK & DISCUSS INDEX

8 years, 9 months ago - Dan Selakovich

These measurements are in U.S.: build a frame for your mirror out of 2" x 2" pine. On 2 sides of the mirror frame, attach a Matthews baby swivel, or something similar. Set a C-stand up on each side of the table, then attach the mirror via the baby swivel on the mirror frame to the C-stands. Make sure you rent some sandbags and C-stand arms that are long enough, too! Don't use a super cheap mirror. It will distort your image. In the end, it would be much easier to use a jib if you're renting one anyway. Does that help?

8 years, 9 months ago - David Lane

Hey Dan! Ah the baby swivel, I would never have worked out what that was called! That looks to be what the chap uses in the Lynda vid (so thanks). Can I ask why a jib would be easier?

8 years, 9 months ago - Dan Selakovich

A jib would be easier because you don't have to build anything, buy a proper mirror, or risk it falling on the talent. You'd also have to make sure that you're getting a mirror that's big enough for the shot you're planning. With a jib, that's not necessary.

As for the baby swivel, there are also clamps for C-stands, but be sure they open wide enough for the 2" by 2" you're using for the frame.

8 years, 9 months ago - Dan Selakovich

David, when I answered before, I was making assumptions about your shoot. Let me clear up some things. A jib is good if your ceiling is high enough. I picture you shooting this on a stage, but realized, you may not be. Second, I assumed a one camera shoot. If you have multiple cameras, a jib might get in the shot of the other cameras, so a mirror would be better in this case. 3rd, I'm assuming you're not shooting in a TV studio where there would be pedestal cameras. If you are shooting in a proper TV studio, a mirror might be better here as well.

8 years, 9 months ago - Philip Carr

You could put a go pro on a boom and view it remotely on a phone or iPad. Much safer than mounting equipment over the talent.

8 years, 8 months ago - Matt

I've actually set a tripod on a table and used the swivel at the top to point it straight down. (Made sure that i used the strap of my dslr to wrap around the tripod) Did a test of this for fun for my sister in laws business here... No production value just testing out the idea. https://youtu.be/f3EnO6EsC-E

8 years, 8 months ago - Matt

Following on from what you said, this will only work with very high ceilings and the right kind of lenses, nice and wide.

8 years, 8 months ago - David Lane

Hey all, can I just say a big thank you. Due to the ceiling not being high enough we are opting for a safer gopro option. The property is an old country home so unfortunately a mirror has not passed a risk assessment!

Maybe another time.... when I don't have a heated debate going on underneath the mirror.

Cheers all!

8 years, 7 months ago - alexander forsey

Agreed. Jib is the best way forward.

8 years, 7 months ago - Sam Seal

A go-pro, a cup-hook and some blu-tack.