I was curious if people would be willlig to share their video setup here.

The setup I usually use is to have the camera pointing at me. Although, sometimes I find the magic looks better if the camera is not pointing at me.

Whats your video setup like?

I have the camera pointing at me as well. Im not sure how ill set yp the lights though.

Hi Paul

A few things I think are equally important are lighting, focus, and composition.

I like to use natural lighting and don't use artificial lighting at all, and so stick to a few basic guidelines to get the best results.

1. Film between 10am and 2pm with natural light from outside on both sides, ideally not too close to avoid strong cast shadows but close enough to fill your performing space.
2. I use manual focus and am sure to focus the camera wherever the action is happening.
3. Make a good composition, arrange your elements, and test different ideas to get a nice shot.
4. If needed do a few adjustments in post, e.g. contrast.

In the next clip I have blocked light on the left (screen) side and allowed more light on the right to effectively add a rim light. The special blockers I use.... window blinds.
https://vimeo.com/126030634

Typically I use a tripod, but in this next clip I filmed a fair amount of handheld and even aimed some shots with the camera dangling around my neck (while executing a tabled faro).
https://vimeo.com/128104628

I like to play with lighting in different settings. In this clip I found a cool space with venetian blinds. Putting two and six together I figured that with the window open gently moving the blinds it would give a kind of flickering old film effect, and if I also went black and white....
https://vimeo.com/111080641

I hope something here helps.
Best,
Greg

Wow. What type of camera do you use and what frame rate do you shoot at? Those are some great videos and really cool illusions! Amazing stuff!

Greg (chappy),
Your camera work and your card work are both very inspiring. Thanks for sharing them. Your depth of field reminds me of Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee, when they show the coffee being made. Brilliant stuff!
Keith

Thank you both

Paul, I use a pretty old and basic Canon (550D) camera, nothing fancy, standard settings. It's main function is photographs but it also films video, so is a great way for me to examine card techniques and handlings up close.

Keith, glad you enjoyed the clips. I love that show. I took a look at your website. Great act!

Best,
Greg