Video Production Tips
Gear tests, workflow breakdowns, and production notes from CinemaViva’s active productions in San Diego. No sponsored content — just what we use and what actually works.
Live Streaming
Connectivity testing, hardware comparisons, and field-proven setups for professional live event production.
- Connectivity
Starlink for Live Streaming
First field test and findings from our early Starlink deployments for professional live event use.
- Connectivity
Starlink Mini vs. Starlink V2
Side-by-side comparison for portable live streaming: size, weight, and real-world throughput.
- Bonding
Can LiveU Solo Stabilize Starlink?
Testing whether LiveU Solo bonding can compensate for Starlink’s intermittent drops during a 1080p stream.
- Field Test
Starlink Live Streaming: What Actually Works
Our most comprehensive reliability assessment including dual-WAN bonding with Peplink.
- Production Guide
How to Live Stream a Conference in San Diego
Full production guide: gear list, camera positions, switching workflow, audio routing, and connectivity setup.
- Minimal Rig
Live Streaming with Minimal Gear
How to maintain broadcast-quality output with a stripped-down setup when budget or logistics are tight.
Switchers, Encoders & Bonding Devices
The hardware layer between cameras and stream destination — what we’ve built and tested in the field.
- Field Test
YoloBox Pro: Real-World Production Test
Using the YoloBox Pro as the primary switcher on a podcast pilot shoot — tested under working conditions.
- Bonding
YoloBox Pro Bonding Test
Testing the built-in cellular bonding feature — when it’s reliable and when external bonding hardware wins.
- Build
ATEM Rackmount Case Build
Full walkthrough of building a production-grade ATEM Mini rack case — components, cable routing, and power management.
- Unboxing
YoloBox Pro Unboxing & First Impressions
Initial review and setup notes from our first YoloBox Pro unit.
Camera Gear & Autofocus
What we’ve found in practice for interview work and live event camera coverage.
- Camera Tech
DJI Focus Pro with Blackmagic Pyxis 6K
Testing the DJI Focus Pro motor system on the Pyxis 6K for corporate interview work — speed, accuracy, integration.
- PTZ
Our Multi-Camera PTZ Setup
How we configured a PTZ array for conference coverage — camera selection, control system, practical differences vs. manned cameras.
Audio Equipment
The most underestimated variable in video production — what we use to capture clean dialogue.
- Wireless Video
Hollyland Cosmo vs. Accsoon 2S Pro
Comparing two wireless video transmission systems for interview and multi-camera event production.
Teleprompter & Presenter Rigs
Setups that reduce takes and improve on-camera confidence — built for solo and assisted operation.
- Build Guide
Rolling Teleprompter Rig You Can Control Solo
Parts list and setup guide for a mobile teleprompter rig one person can operate and reposition between setups.
- Build Guide
Web Presenter Rolling Rig for Live Streaming
A more robust presenter rig optimized for live streaming with stable positioning and clean sightlines.
- Creative Use
Blackmagic HyperDeck Shuttle as a Teleprompter
An unconventional but cost-effective teleprompter solution using the HyperDeck Shuttle HD for studio interviews.
- Overview
Rolling Teleprompter Rig: Production Benefits
Why a rolling teleprompter rig is one of the highest-value gear additions for solo creators and corporate shoots.
Production Workflows
Practical guides for preparing shoots, understanding the process, and making production decisions.
- Client Guide
How to Prepare for a Corporate Video Shoot
A step-by-step guide for first-time subjects — what to wear, talking points, and what to expect on set.
- Case Study
Filming a Luthier Documentary
A production breakdown of a short documentary shot in our San Diego studio — camera approach, lighting, and workflow.
- Pricing Guide
How Much Does Corporate Video Cost in San Diego?
A real breakdown of production costs — what drives pricing and what to budget for in San Diego.