Vortex Media DVD: Mastering the Sony PMW-EX3 Camcorder

  • Price: $69.95
  • GBP 44.22
  • B&H # VOEX3DVD
  • Mfr# EX3DVD

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Mastering the Sony PMW-EX3 Camcorder - In three hours, learn all you need to know about this Sony EX3 camcorder.

Using examples, and detailed explanations, before you know it, you'll be a working shooter with this incredible camera. And, by learning from this easy-to-understand DVD, you can save time and money by conquering it on your own. Whether you are an absolute beginner or a veteran pro, there is something on this DVD for everyone.

About the Author: Doug Jensen is the owner of Vortex Media, a cameraman, producer, director, editor, consultant and trainer with over 25 years of video production and post-production experience. Jensen combines his extensive production experience with his teaching skills to bring a wide-ranging, real-world perspective to his independent DVD workshops and live seminars.

As a member of Sony's Independent Certified Experts (I.C.E.) team he has taught high-definition XDCAM classes for Sony at NAB, Japan, Hollywood, New York, Boston, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh. In the summer of 2007 Sony hired him to shoot demo footage with a pre-production EX1 camcorder, and to operate the camera during field tests conducted by Discovery Communications.

In recent years he has directed, and co-produced several popular training DVDs including: "Mastering the Sony PMW-EX1", "HandsOnHDV: A Complete Guide to the Z1U and FX1," "A Guide to Shooting with the Sony XDCAM HD F350/F330 Camcorders," and "How to Setup, Light, & Shoot Great Looking Interviews." Jensen owns several cameras, including a Sony PMW-EX1, Sony PMW-EX3, Sony F350 XDCAM HD, Sony HVR-Z7U, Sony HVR-Z1U HDV camcorder, and an Ikegami HL59 Betacam. His credits and clients include: NBC News, ABC News, CBS News, Fox News, CNN, PBS, BBC, NHK, EBU, TNT, Discovery, ESPN, E!, A&E, HGTV, WGBH, Food Network, NASCAR Images, MLB Productions, Travel Channel, History Channel, Sundance Channel, and NBA Entertainment.

Will also play on 99% of all PAL DVD players

Chapters

Introduction
Overview of the EX3
Navigating the Menus
Choosing a Video Format
Controlling Exposure
Focusing Techniques
Audio Recording
Time-Code
Shot-Transitions
Assign Buttons
Slow Motion & Special FX
White Balance
Picture Profiles
Lens Options
Playback & Clip Operations
Clip Browser
Backups & Archiving
Clip Importing
Sony Vegas
FCP & XDCAM Transfer
Editing HD vs. SD
Subject Advanced Videography
Author Doug Jensen
Edition First
Hard/Soft Cover DVD-Video
Pages 3hrs
Dimensions DVD
Illustrations Yes
ISBN Number Not Applicable
Publisher Vortex Media
Date Published 2008

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
Vortex Media DVD: Mastering the Sony PMW-EX3 Camcorder
 
4.6

(based on 17 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (13)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (3)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (1)

94%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Informative (10)
  • Easy to follow (8)
  • Quality photos (6)
  • Well written (4)
  • Easy to understand (3)

Cons

    Best Uses

    • Educational (8)
    • Reference (4)
      • Reviewer Profile:
      • Casual reader (6), Everyday reader (3)
      • Was this a gift?:
      • No (3)

    Most Liked Positive Review

     

    Worth every penny!

    DO NOT THINK THIS IS JUST THE FIELD MANUAL ON VIDEO!IT IS SO MUCH MORE!I made a mistake. I bought the field manual thinking I'd save a buck and still get all the...Read complete review

    DO NOT THINK THIS IS JUST THE FIELD MANUAL ON VIDEO!IT IS SO MUCH MORE!I made a mistake. I bought the field manual thinking I'd save a buck and still get all the information I'd want or need to use my new PMW-EX3 to it's fullest potential. The Vortex Media field manual is very good, and handy when I want quick reference information about the camera since there is so much to know about the EX3.BUT! Several of my fellow freelancers, who also own an EX3 as one of their cameras, pushed me to open my wallet and get these disks. I'm not cheap but I don't like to spend money if I don't have to. Getting these disks was worth every cent! Doug Jensen takes you through the camera and clearly explains each and every function. While the manual gives you the technical "where is the button and what is it supposed to do" information. Doug Jensen shows you what it does and gives you reasons why or why not you might want to do something. He also shows you so many other things about the camera that are not in the manual!The best part for me is Doug Jensen does not say "my way or the highway" with his advice. He understands each of us has different reasons for how we want our video to look. He gives reasons why he prefers something but is quick to offer the viewer other options which might fit their needs.The main reason to get this set of DVD's, besides for the specific "what button does what and why" is to have Doug Jensen clearly explain work flow with the EX3. This is something that is NOT covered as well in the field manual. Yet, it is such an integral part of using this camera. Work flow is often overlooked in manuals and having these DVD's, with Doug Jensen holding your hand and taking you through the various workflow options is what sets this set of DVD's apart from the manual.There is so much to know and learn about the EX3 that you won't be able to absorb it all with a single viewing. When you need a refresher, it's easy to pop these disks in and quickly skip to the chapter with information you need and find out what you want to know.This is not produced by Sony or a Sony shill. Doug Jensen offers honest, experienced advice about the camera and once you understand all the EX3 can do, you'll understand why buying these disks was the best investment you could make after spending money on the camera itself!These disks are full of valuable information, which you will not get just reading the Sony instruction manual that comes with the PMW EX3 camera or the Vortex Media EX3 Field Manual.

    VS

    Most Liked Negative Review

     

    Not worth a pound

    I read the manual before buying this product waiting to find something not covered by the manual. i watched and watched waiting for a single information that its not in the manual with no success...Read complete review

    I read the manual before buying this product waiting to find something not covered by the manual. i watched and watched waiting for a single information that its not in the manual with no success. i never regret buying something as much as i regret paying that much for this product. be aware

    REVIEWS

    Reviewed by 17 customers

    Sort by

    Displaying reviews 1-17

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    5.0

    Great Tutorial

    By Ed L.

    from Honolulu, HI

    About Me Casual Reader

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Easy To Follow
    • Informative
    • Well Written

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • Educational
      • Entertainment
      • Staying Informed

      Comments about Vortex Media DVD: Mastering the Sony PMW-EX3 Camcorder:

      I think this is a great product for people who are new to professional cameras. The instructions and details help straighten out the learning curve a bit. Very helpful and insightful.

      Comment on this review

       
      5.0

      Worth every penny!

      By Chele John

      from Miami, Florida

      About Me Casual Reader

      Verified Reviewer

      Pros

      • Clear communication
      • Covers workflow as well
      • Easy To Follow
      • Informative
      • Quality Photos
      • Real world advice
      • Well Written

      Cons

        Best Uses

        • Educational
        • Fast clear information
        • Reference
        • Staying Informed

        Comments about Vortex Media DVD: Mastering the Sony PMW-EX3 Camcorder:

        DO NOT THINK THIS IS JUST THE FIELD MANUAL ON VIDEO!IT IS SO MUCH MORE!I made a mistake. I bought the field manual thinking I'd save a buck and still get all the information I'd want or need to use my new PMW-EX3 to it's fullest potential. The Vortex Media field manual is very good, and handy when I want quick reference information about the camera since there is so much to know about the EX3.BUT! Several of my fellow freelancers, who also own an EX3 as one of their cameras, pushed me to open my wallet and get these disks. I'm not cheap but I don't like to spend money if I don't have to. Getting these disks was worth every cent! Doug Jensen takes you through the camera and clearly explains each and every function. While the manual gives you the technical "where is the button and what is it supposed to do" information. Doug Jensen shows you what it does and gives you reasons why or why not you might want to do something. He also shows you so many other things about the camera that are not in the manual!The best part for me is Doug Jensen does not say "my way or the highway" with his advice. He understands each of us has different reasons for how we want our video to look. He gives reasons why he prefers something but is quick to offer the viewer other options which might fit their needs.The main reason to get this set of DVD's, besides for the specific "what button does what and why" is to have Doug Jensen clearly explain work flow with the EX3. This is something that is NOT covered as well in the field manual. Yet, it is such an integral part of using this camera. Work flow is often overlooked in manuals and having these DVD's, with Doug Jensen holding your hand and taking you through the various workflow options is what sets this set of DVD's apart from the manual.There is so much to know and learn about the EX3 that you won't be able to absorb it all with a single viewing. When you need a refresher, it's easy to pop these disks in and quickly skip to the chapter with information you need and find out what you want to know.This is not produced by Sony or a Sony shill. Doug Jensen offers honest, experienced advice about the camera and once you understand all the EX3 can do, you'll understand why buying these disks was the best investment you could make after spending money on the camera itself!These disks are full of valuable information, which you will not get just reading the Sony instruction manual that comes with the PMW EX3 camera or the Vortex Media EX3 Field Manual.

        Comment on this review

         
        5.0

        A fantastic video

        By Garhan

        from Vancouver, Canada

        About Me Video Journalist

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

          Cons

            Best Uses

              Comments about Vortex Media DVD: Mastering the Sony PMW-EX3 Camcorder:

              This is my second video by Doug Jensen/Vortex and I can't say enough about how thorough the cameras are covered. Vortex videos are a must for someone using a new camera, or even thinking about purchasing one. You will know what the camera can and cannot do and what will work best in your situation. The video's detail will assist both the novice and pro setting up their camera and going into their shoot confidently with new gear.

              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Comment on this review

               
              5.0

              Good,concise training

              By Terry

              from Boulder,CO

              About Me Business Owner

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Easy To Use
              • In-depth instructions
              • Well organized

              Cons

                Best Uses

                • Independent Films

                Comments about Vortex Media DVD: Mastering the Sony PMW-EX3 Camcorder:

                I am using this DVD to get an introduction to the PMW-EX3 before demoing it. The training will let me use the demo time to the best effect.

                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Comment on this review

                 
                5.0

                Excellant instruction.

                By Good Shepherd Ministries of WNY

                from Buffalo, NY

                About Me Business Owner, Professional Artist

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Easy To Use
                • Professional Quality

                Cons

                  Best Uses

                  • Complex Projects
                  • Home Movies
                  • Independent Films
                  • In The Studio

                  Comments about Vortex Media DVD: Mastering the Sony PMW-EX3 Camcorder:

                  Excellant series, learned so much more than the factory book. all useable information.

                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Comment on this review

                   
                  4.0

                  Really good DVD

                  By Monty

                  from Jamaica, NY

                  About Me Casual Reader

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Easy To Follow
                  • Informative

                  Cons

                    Best Uses

                    • Educational

                    Comments about Vortex Media DVD: Mastering the Sony PMW-EX3 Camcorder:

                    This DVD shows you what you can do with the Sony EX-3. Nice tips and tricks.

                    Comment on this review

                     
                    5.0

                    Excellent and clear

                    By camerawoman

                    from Costa Rica

                    About Me Everyday Reader

                    Verified Reviewer

                    Pros

                    • Easy To Follow
                    • Informative
                    • Quality Photos

                    Cons

                      Best Uses

                      • Educational
                      • Reference

                      Comments about Vortex Media DVD: Mastering the Sony PMW-EX3 Camcorder:

                      Before buying this video I thought "oh, it´s too expensive, I´ll just read the manual", but finally ended up buying it and I was very glad I did. It has a lot of handy tips NOT contained in the manual, and frankly, having someone talk to you while showing you in extreme close up all the parts and how everything works is much more entertaining than a mini size font boring manual. It´s there if you need more detail, but the video really gets you going fast with a lot more than the basics. Highly recommended.

                      Comment on this review

                       
                      5.0

                      Complete Review of the EX3

                      By Anonymous

                      from Eastern Washington State

                      About Me Everyday Reader

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                      • Easy To Follow
                      • Informative
                      • Quality Photos

                      Cons

                        Best Uses

                        • Educational

                        Comments about Vortex Media DVD: Mastering the Sony PMW-EX3 Camcorder:

                        This is the second Vortex video that I have purchased. Both are complete in their review of all the camera settings, buttons, knobs, etc. If you are new to complex camera's and don't want to hack your way through the 100 or so menu items then the Vortex video will give you an organized informative tour. At the end of the video you should have a starting point for all of your camera settings.

                        Comment on this review

                        (0 of 3 customers found this review helpful)

                         
                        1.0

                        Not worth a pound

                        By salah

                        from London

                        About Me Casual Reader

                        Pros

                          Cons

                          • No New Information

                          Best Uses

                            Comments about Vortex Media DVD: Mastering the Sony PMW-EX3 Camcorder:

                            I read the manual before buying this product waiting to find something not covered by the manual. i watched and watched waiting for a single information that its not in the manual with no success. i never regret buying something as much as i regret paying that much for this product. be aware

                            Comment on this review

                             
                            4.0

                            It is very good!!!

                            By Rick

                            from Las Vegas

                            Verified Buyer

                            Pros

                            • Deserves Multiple Readings
                            • Easy To Understand
                            • Informative
                            • Relevant

                            Cons

                              Best Uses

                                Comments about Vortex Media DVD: Mastering the Sony PMW-EX3 Camcorder:

                                I watched it once all the way through then I watched it with the camera in hand and it was great to stop and start. I will then watch it a third time out in the field.

                                Comment on this review

                                 
                                5.0

                                Better than a manual

                                By Dave

                                from Boston, MA

                                Verified Buyer

                                Pros

                                • Easy To Understand
                                • Informative
                                • Relevant

                                Cons

                                  Best Uses

                                    Comments about Vortex Media DVD: Mastering the Sony PMW-EX3 Camcorder:

                                    Gives you a very in depth view of the EX3. Lots of hands on training. Great examples of what the camera is capable of.

                                    Comment on this review

                                     
                                    5.0

                                    EX3 users, this is a MUST have!

                                    By Larry in L.A.

                                    from Los Angeles, CA

                                    Verified Reviewer

                                    Pros

                                    • Easy to understand
                                    • In depth instructionals
                                    • Professional advice

                                    Cons

                                      Best Uses

                                      • Experienced EX3 users
                                      • First time EX3 users
                                      • First time HD shooters

                                      Comments about Vortex Media DVD: Mastering the Sony PMW-EX3 Camcorder:

                                      I cannot say enough about this wonderful DVD set. Spend 3 hours with these, and you'll be an informed expert on the Sony EX3. Tells you all the stuff you want, and need to know about the camera, from a very unbiased professional shooter. Great tips, and watch the paint menus portion, for a great place to start with Pic Profiles. Those alone, are worth the price of this set!

                                      Comment on this review

                                       
                                      5.0

                                      Great Jump-start

                                      By Tim

                                      from Cleveland, OH

                                      Verified Buyer

                                      Pros

                                      • Good Value
                                      • High Quality

                                      Cons

                                        Best Uses

                                          Comments about Vortex Media DVD: Mastering the Sony PMW-EX3 Camcorder:

                                          I found this video guide to be a great jump-start for the PMW-EX3. Doug Jensen does a very nice job at succinctly explaining all of the functions of the EX3 - which is not insignificant. I have to say that this DVD guide saved me many hours of playing & experimenting. That's not to say I won't be spening loads of time playing and experimenting but it will be will additional knowledge. Great job, Doug!

                                          Comment on this review

                                          (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                                           
                                          5.0

                                          A 'must have' for the EX3 user

                                          By DR

                                          from Utah

                                          Verified Buyer

                                          Pros

                                          • Good Value

                                          Cons

                                            Best Uses

                                              Comments about Vortex Media DVD: Mastering the Sony PMW-EX3 Camcorder:

                                              Even if you are the type to pour over the manual, this is an essential tool for any EX3 owner. It covers much more detail than the manual in a easy to follow video tutorial. I learned many features and operational aspects that just were not covered clearly in the manual. Doug Jensen does an excellent job exploring the full potential of this incredible camera step by step. I keep this DVD with me on shoots for reference, it's that useful. (I don't take the manual, if that tells you anything)
                                              Well worth the investment, it will save you lots of time. Spend your time shooting, not flipping back and forth in a confusing manual.

                                              Comment on this review

                                               
                                              5.0

                                              I would buy this product again

                                              By Johnboy

                                              from Louisville, KY

                                              About Me Casual Reader

                                              Verified Buyer

                                              Pros

                                              • Easy To Follow
                                              • Informative
                                              • Quality Photos
                                              • Well Written

                                              Cons

                                                Best Uses

                                                • Educational
                                                • Reference

                                                Comments about Vortex Media DVD: Mastering the Sony PMW-EX3 Camcorder:

                                                Made learning the EX3 and its functions much easier.

                                                Comment on this review

                                                 
                                                5.0

                                                Excellent primer for EX-3

                                                By Doug

                                                from Salt Lake, UT

                                                About Me Casual Reader

                                                Verified Buyer

                                                Pros

                                                • Easy To Follow
                                                • Informative
                                                • Quality Photos
                                                • Well Written

                                                Cons

                                                  Best Uses

                                                  • Educational
                                                  • Reference

                                                  Comments about Vortex Media DVD: Mastering the Sony PMW-EX3 Camcorder:

                                                  Easy pace to follow along. Answered multiple questions without having to dig through the manual. After watching the program I felt comfortable with the camera.

                                                  Comment on this review

                                                  (0 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                                                   
                                                  4.0

                                                  essential training

                                                  By Rich the french Canadian

                                                  from Laurentides, QC, Canada

                                                  About Me Everyday Reader

                                                  Verified Buyer

                                                  Pros

                                                  • Easy To Follow
                                                  • Informative
                                                  • Quality Photos

                                                  Cons

                                                    Best Uses

                                                    • Educational

                                                    Comments about Vortex Media DVD: Mastering the Sony PMW-EX3 Camcorder:

                                                    The information are very usefull for begginer, the guy know is stuff. You can find all the information on the net for free but this DVD provide everything needed to use the camera even if you are a pro, no need to explain White balance or video transfert but this camera have so many option that even a pro could learn something from this DVD.

                                                    Comment on this review

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