It's about that time to buy my gear for the video. I wanted to run it by your guys before I do and I hope you can convince me not to buy a few things to save money at this point.
It's important restate my goals:
I want to initially provide video services for family events from birthdays to low budget weddings.
I'm getting the Canon XH-A1. Why HD? I want to the HD for personal projects. I don't intend to offer HD output to clients until I know the business and HD becomes more common. I don't have the computer to edit HD anyway. I've read the Canon XH-A1 give you more bang for the buck over the Sony FX1 or FX7.
I'm getting the Bescor 50WATT on camera light with dimmer and battery pack. The price is right and I couldn't find a 100WATT light with dimmer at a price I can afford.
Mic selection is the Rode NTG-2 shotgun. I've read good things about it. Should I buy a mic that it less expensive? Should I buy one at all?
Extra 7 hour battery by Canon.
Above is what I'm about to dive in to getting. Tell me if you think I should get a different combination of accessories. For example, should I get a better light kit and use the on camera mic for now? Should I buy a third party battery to save a few dollars? Should I be buying a wirelss mic setup before getting the shotgun mic?
I know there are more things to consider.
Tripod, I'll be using my heavy duty Promaster tripod but will look for a better head.
Bag, I would rather get a no name bag and pad it myself to save money. It's also safer to to walk around with a bag that doesn't yell out brand names in my opinion.
External lights, I'm still doing reseach but I have a SV kit good for interviews but not to flood a reception's main table or dance floor. The video guy at the last event I shot didn't even have any external lighting. I'll look to rent if the time comes and I don't have it available.
Tapes.....I'll get good stuff. I read the it makes a difference and helps prolong the life of a camera.
Based on my initial goals, am I missing anything?
Thanks in advance.