What does a church need to get started?

I'm looking for information to share with several churches about how to get started with using media in worship.
Can anyone tell me if there is a "primer" out there that talks about how to choose the right projector; screen vs. walll; what's a lumen, etc.?
Many thanks for the assist!

Jeneane

[David Reddel]

Jeneane-

There are other sources out there, but a pre-order of Tim Eason's book "Media Ministry Made Easy" would be a great start. Look at the front page of the www.churchmedia.net page at the bottom is a short description about the book.

Tim, do I get extra points for that?

Blessings!

Well, there is a chapter on system design - basic and advanced. I don't think I actually answer the question "What is a lumen", but I do pose the question: "What is a grit?" for those who think on a deeper, philosophical post-modern level . I also say never to use a wall.

Hmmm....extra points for pushing my book....throw in an original graphic post to our gallery and you've got a deal .

Thank you ror the comments. It's a good start. And the comment about not using a wall is helpful. I assume the reason falls into the category If It's Worth Doing...

Hi, my name is Mark Allen and I attend Judson Baptist Church in Nashville, TN.

We are looking to develop a media ministry that includes video production, broadcast, and webcast.

Now, here's the problem. I have no idea how to even start thinking about such an undertaking! I know enough about media ministry to know that we need it in our church. Other than that, I'm clueless.

So, here are my questions:
1. What kind (type/models) of cameras do we need to get started doing some basic video production (documentaries, interviews, event recording, and basic broadcast recording)? How much do these cost and where should I purchase them?

2. Video Non-Linear Editing systems: What's the best? What's the worst? What's practical? Where can I find good prices on these things?

3. Video Switchers: What do I need to know about such things? What's the best? The worst? Prices?

4. What else do I need to have to do all of the things I have described above?

I'm sure that I need to know more information than any of you have time to give me, but if I could just get started, I know that my church would respond with open arms.

God bless anyone who dares to answer this e-mail.

Thanks,
Mark

[David Reddel]

Greetings Mark!

Just use the search function here on the subjects that Tone sets forth in the post above. It will be easier to answer your questions that way. Try that as well for switchers, NLE's, cameras, etc.

First off good to see another baptist church is getting into media ministry...

Welcome to the great world of media ministry. I base our multimedia ministry at FBCR off of fellowship church www.fellowshipchurch.com. we are also members of fellowship connection too. www.fellowshipconnection. They (imo) have one of the greatest multimedia ministries in the world so check them out.

We at FBCR are not as big fellowship by far (5th largest church in the world lol) so I have learned and I continue to learn how to do things on a budget... lol

I work with $5000 cameras not $150,000 lol

We get all of our equipment from Fowler Inc. out of oklahoma... Zane Hedger is my consultant - hes a great guy.

They built our system and we have been so happy with it. They know what churches need. They aren't just trying to sell you stuff...
www.fowlerinc.com


1. What kind (type/models) of cameras do we need to get started doing some basic video production (documentaries, interviews, event recording, and basic broadcast recording)? How much do these cost and where should I purchase them?

We use alot of panasonic stuff because it is affordable and good quality we are usuing
panasonic AG-DVX100A. If we were to go with HD we would go with sony though... but we are talking basic broadcast...


2. Video Editing

I use premeire... I hear final cut is a good alternative to avid...


3. Video Switchers:

We use a matrix because of having the choir monitors but for general screen and IMAG switching I have seen the AW-SW350
5-Input AC/DC Video Switcher suggested before...


4. What else do I need to have to do all of the things I have described above?
Fowler and Zane are great folks to help you through the process... they will hook you up with the stuff that you might not know you need... but you will.

[sempei13]

Originally Posted by Tim Eason

I also say never to use a wall.

I'd amend that to NEVER use any untreated (for video) surface. I've heard good things about Screen Goo (a sort of paint for turning surfaces into screens). I was at a church once that used a sheet. That's no good either (too many wrinkles). Most times a screen is your best choice.

There are formulas for how bright a projector you need and what size you need. Remember the formulas give you minimums, not maximums. We occasionally hear from people who say, "The formulas say I need an 8' x10' screen and a 3000 lumen projector. We've decided to get a 6'x4' and a 1000 lumen." It's much better to get a larger screen and brighter projector than a smaller dimmer one.

Rear projection is generally better than front, if you can do it. Windows are the enemy of projection (that's why they don't have them in movie theatres). If I were designing a room from a video perspective (only), I'd put the stage just above the floor, put in stadium seating and use cams up close for Imag (image magnification using cameras on screen). It might not be the best worship environment, but I am a video guy .

Paul

That would be perfect for a satelite venue... but it I don't see something like that to be a problem in main campus either so...

No advertising, please read the forum rules - PCH

[BalconyBoy]

Well, I do use a wall. Two actually since I use two projectors. A screen is not feasible in our sanctuary. I am using two 2,000 lumen's In Focus projectors & Easy Worship. The results are good.

Originally Posted by BalconyBoy

Well, I do use a wall. Two actually since I use two projectors. A screen is not feasible in our sanctuary.

I'm confused. You're projecting an image on a wall now.
So there is something happening on that wall. Why can't you
put a screen on the wall?



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