Preparing for camera - gear, technique, etc

[RandomLemming 0]

Hi all,

I plan to spend the next 55 jumps preparing to jump with a camera. For the first 50-100 camera jumps, I'll just be jumping with a Sony DCR-HC20 video camera and later I may add a still camera to the setup.

I will obviously be approaching my rigger and some instructors, but I wanted to make a start on gathering information here.

Firstly, I currently jump a Pilot 188 main. Is the standard opening shock of this canopy a problem for camera work with the extra weight on your head?

If this is a suitable canopy, what if any mods should I consider to make it more so ? I'm thinking about things like different lines, changes to slider and pilot chute. If not suitable, how far do I have to downsize before I can safely fly with a camera?

Secondly, I plan to get a camera suit. Is it permissible to use this in the UK under the BPA before I have my C licence? I was hoping to make the last 10 - 15 jumps before my C licence with this suit for practice.

Finally, what should I be working on with regards to technique from now? I'm specifically interested in changes that I will need to make to my deployment process / position.

Thanks in advance

[dragon2 2]

1) there's a whole camera forum on here, did you see? Also don't forget to read the FAQ there.

2) preparing for cameraflying means you make sure you're very good at the discipline you're wanting to film. Sounds like it is FS, so go out and do FS jumps, make sure you can put your body where you want it, when you want it, without thinking about it and while being very safe doing it.

3) a pilot is fine. Size doesn't matter, aside from the fact that smaller canopies take more skill to open on heading and problem-free. So a pilot 188 is fine.

4) no clue, I'm not a UK skydiver, but I'd not go out with a camera suit just yet, unless you had a whole lot of tunnel coaching you can use the FS practice much more right now.

5) go talk with your instructors about all this, and especially go find a good cameraflyer or 2at your DZ to take you under his/her wing, much better than asking around on an internet forum!

ciel bleu,
Saskia

[Tuna-Salad 0]

Read the sticky in the camera flyer section.

If you wanna fly with wings.. do it first.. don't try to fly a camera and wings on the first jump.. This shit is already dangerous.. minimise the risk. Just my unqualified 2 cents..

Millions of my potential children died on your daughters' face last night.

[RandomLemming 0]

Thanks - I'm reading the sticky now :)