Equipment Guide

The 12-60mm kit lens is the everyday workhorse for the G97. It covers a wide 24mm equivalent all the way to 120mm, making it ideal for interviews, general field coverage, and indoor shooting. Features built-in POWER O.I.S. stabilization and a fast, quiet autofocus motor.

1. Align the red dot on the lens with the red dot on the G97 or BMPCC 4K body and twist clockwise until it clicks firmly into place.
2. Remove the front and rear lens caps and store them in the Ruggard bag.
3. Set the focus mode switch on the lens to AFS (Auto Focus Single) for standard shooting, or MF (Manual Focus) for precise control.
4. Enable POWER O.I.S. via the camera's stabilization menu — Dual I.S. 2 is available when this lens is attached.
5. At 12mm you get a wide environmental shot; at 60mm you get a flattering portrait compression. For interviews, zoom to 35-60mm range.
6. This lens performs well in low light — keep ISO at 800-3200 indoors for clean footage.

A versatile telephoto zoom giving 90-300mm equivalent reach on Micro Four Thirds. Perfect for capturing speakers at a distance, covering events from the back of a room, or compressing backgrounds in interview setups. Compact and lightweight with built-in MEGA O.I.S. stabilization.

1. Align the red dot on the lens with the red dot on the G97 or BMPCC 4K body and twist clockwise until it clicks firmly.
2. Remove both lens caps. The front cap is 58mm — keep it in the Ruggard bag when not in use.
3. Set the focus mode switch on the lens to AFS for interviews, or AFC for tracking moving subjects.
4. Enable O.I.S. on the lens barrel — slide to ON.
5. Zoom to 45mm for wider shots, 150mm for tight coverage. At 150mm, use the Manfrotto tripod for stability.
6. At f/4-5.6 this lens works best in well-lit conditions. Indoors, bump ISO to 1600-3200 if needed.

The LARK MAX Duo is a compact 2-person wireless mic system with two transmitters and one receiver. Both transmitters include built-in noise cancellation. Range up to 820 ft. Connects to camera via 3.5mm TRS.

1. Remove both transmitters and receiver from the charging case. Confirm all are charged (LED solid white = full).
2. Power on the receiver first — it will auto-pair with the transmitters.
3. Clip one transmitter to each speaker's lapel, 6–8 inches below the chin, mic capsule facing upward.
4. Power on each transmitter by pressing and holding its button — LED goes solid when connected.
5. Plug the receiver into the camera's 3.5mm input. Set camera audio input to "External Mic."
6. Enable noise cancellation: double-press the transmitter button — LED turns blue. Best for outdoor or noisy environments.
7. Monitor levels in-camera — aim for peaks around -12 dB. Adjust gain on the camera side only.
8. After the shoot, return all units to the charging case and confirm charging LEDs are on before storing.

A professional UHF wireless lavalier system with ME 2-II omnidirectional clip-on mic. The receiver mounts directly to the camera cold shoe. Range up to 300 ft. Battery-powered (AA batteries in both transmitter and receiver).

1. Insert fresh AA batteries into both the bodypack transmitter and the camera-mount receiver.
2. Mount the receiver on the camera's cold shoe. Plug its output into the camera's 3.5mm mic input.
3. Turn on the receiver first, then the transmitter. They will auto-sync if on the same frequency.
4. To set frequency: press SET on receiver, use SCAN to find a clear channel. Hold transmitter close and press SYNC to transfer frequency.
5. Clip the ME 2-II lavalier to speaker's lapel 6-8 inches below chin. Route cable under clothing to bodypack on waistband.
6. Set RF output on transmitter to 30 mW indoors, 50 mW outdoors or long-range.
7. Set audio level on transmitter so meter on receiver shows peaks at -18 to -12 dB.
8. At shoot end, power off transmitter first, then receiver. Store batteries separately to prevent drain.

A lightweight, bus-powered directional shotgun mic that mounts on any hot or cold shoe. No batteries required — draws power from the camera. Great for run-and-gun and events where wireless isn't practical.

1. Slide the VideoMic GO II onto the camera's hot shoe and tighten the thumbscrew until snug.
2. Connect the included 3.5mm TRS cable from the mic output to the camera's mic input jack.
3. The mic is bus-powered — no switches needed. It activates when the cable is connected and camera is on.
4. In camera audio settings, set Input to "External Mic" and confirm signal on the meter.
5. The mic has a natural high-frequency boost — no additional EQ needed for voices.
6. Point the camera toward your subject. The mic rejects sound from the sides and rear.
7. In noisy environments, use the Sennheiser or Lark MAX wireless lav instead of relying on this mic alone.

A broadcast-quality super-cardioid shotgun microphone with built-in rechargeable lithium battery (charges via USB). Designed for boom-pole or boom-stand use. Includes switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter, -10 dB pad, and high-frequency boost.

1. Charge the NTG4+ via micro-USB until the LED turns off (approx. 2 hours).
2. Mount the mic in a shockmount or boom stand adapter to isolate handling noise.
3. Attach the RODE WS6 Deluxe windshield by sliding it over the mic capsule.
4. Connect a Kopul XLR cable from the mic to the Zoom H6essential or camera XLR input.
5. Position the boom so the mic is 6-12 inches above the subject's head, angled at 45°, just out of frame.
6. Enable phantom power (+48V) if running on phantom rather than internal battery.
7. Switch the high-pass filter ON (80 Hz) to remove rumble from AC units or traffic.
8. Set gain so speech peaks at -12 to -6 dB on your recorder's meter. Always monitor with headphones.

The H6essential records 6 tracks simultaneously in 32-bit float — you essentially can't clip the audio no matter the input level. Ideal as a dedicated audio recorder for multi-mic setups paired with the NTG4+ and Sennheiser wireless receiver.

1. Insert AA batteries or power via USB-C. Insert a microSD card into the left side slot.
2. Power on with the switch on the left side.
3. Connect the NTG4+ to XLR Input 1 and the Sennheiser wireless receiver output to XLR Input 2 using Kopul XLR cables.
4. Enable phantom power on Input 1 (+48V): Input 1 → Phantom → ON if running on phantom.
5. Set record format: Menu → Record → Format → WAV 32-bit Float, 48kHz.
6. In 32-bit float mode, you do not need to set gain — the recorder captures everything safely.
7. Press the large red REC button to begin recording. A red border appears around the screen.
8. After recording, connect via USB-C to your editing computer or remove the microSD card to transfer files.

The Electro-Voice RE-50 B is a rugged omnidirectional dynamic handheld microphone — a broadcast industry standard for interviews and field reporting. No phantom power required. Comes with a carrying case, foam windscreen, mic clip, and thread adaptor.

1. Attach the foam windscreen to the top of the mic capsule to reduce wind and breath noise.
2. Connect an XLR cable to the bottom of the RE-50 B and run to the camera's XLR input or the Zoom H6essential.
3. No phantom power needed — this is a dynamic mic and works with any XLR input.
4. Hold the mic 6-8 inches from the subject's mouth for interviews, slightly below chin level pointing upward.
5. Being omnidirectional, the RE-50 B picks up sound from all directions — ideal for noisy environments or two-person interviews where you pass the mic.
6. Set gain on the recorder or camera so peaks hit around -12 dB during normal speech.
7. After use, remove the windscreen, coil the cable, and store in the included case.

A legacy wireless microphone system including a bodypack transmitter, camera-mount or rack receiver, lavalier microphone, mic clip, and antenna(s). Used with the AG-HMC150P for untethered interviews and event coverage.

1. Insert fresh batteries into both the transmitter and receiver.
2. Power on the receiver first, then the transmitter. Confirm they are on the same frequency channel.
3. Attach the antenna(s) to the receiver and position them upright for best signal.
4. Clip the lavalier mic to the speaker's lapel, 6-8 inches below the chin, mic capsule facing up.
5. Route the mic cable under clothing and connect to the bodypack transmitter clipped to the waistband.
6. Connect the receiver output to the camera's XLR or 3.5mm input and set audio levels in-camera.
7. Do a range test before the event — walk to the farthest point of your shooting area and confirm signal is clean.

The Sony ECM-77B is a professional omni-directional electret condenser lavalier microphone — a broadcast standard known for its natural, clear sound. Requires plug-in power or phantom power. Comes with a foam windscreen, mic clip, and carrying case.

1. Attach the foam windscreen to the mic capsule to reduce breath and handling noise.
2. Clip the mic to the speaker's lapel 6-8 inches below chin, capsule facing upward.
3. Route the cable under clothing to keep it hidden. Avoid tight bends near the connector.
4. Connect the XLR end to the camera's XLR input or the Zoom H6essential. Enable plug-in power or phantom power on the input — the ECM-77B requires it.
5. Set gain so speech peaks at -12 dB on the meter.
6. After use, coil the cable loosely and store in the carrying case — never wrap the cable tightly around the mic.

Two 25-foot XLR cables for running audio from microphones to cameras or mixers over longer distances. Useful for fixed-position event recording where the camera is set back from the subject.

1. Connect the male XLR end to the microphone output and the female end to the camera or recorder XLR input.
2. Run the cable along walls or taped to the floor to avoid trip hazards. Never run cables across walkways without securing them with gaffer tape.
3. Always coil in an over-under pattern when storing to prevent internal wire damage and kinking.
4. Check for hum or signal loss before the event by wiggling both connectors while monitoring audio.

Closed-back Sony headphones for monitoring audio while recording. Always use headphones on any shoot to catch issues like mic dropouts, wind noise, hum, or distortion before they ruin a recording.

1. Plug the headphone connector into the headphone output (3.5mm or 1/4" jack) on the camera or Zoom H6essential.
2. Set the headphone volume to a comfortable level — loud enough to hear clearly but not so loud it causes fatigue.
3. Monitor throughout the entire recording — not just at the start. Wireless mic batteries can die mid-shoot.
4. Listen for hum (ground loop or interference), distortion (levels too hot), or silence (cable or battery failure) and address immediately.
5. After use, coil the cable loosely and store the headphones in a bag or case to protect the ear cups.

The RS 3 Mini is a 3-axis motorized gimbal for lightweight mirrorless cameras up to 2 kg. Perfect for smooth tracking shots, walking interviews, and dynamic coverage. Works with the G97 and small zoom lenses.

1. Charge the gimbal via USB-C until full (LED indicators all solid, approx. 2 hours).
2. Mount your camera to the quick-release plate. Tighten the thumbscrew firmly — no wobble.
3. Attach the plate to the gimbal's mounting base and lock with the release lever.
4. Balance the camera: loosen each axis lock one at a time and slide until the camera stays in position without motor power. Start tilt, then roll, then pan.
5. Power on by pressing and holding the power button until the motors engage and auto-stabilize.
6. Use the joystick to control pan/tilt. Short-press the mode button to switch between Follow, Lock, and FPV modes.
7. For smooth walking shots: hold at waist height with a bent elbow, walk heel-to-toe to minimize bounce.
8. After use, power off and loosen all axis locks before storing — this extends motor life.

A modular 15mm rail-based shoulder rig that distributes the camera's weight across your shoulder for fatigue-free, stable handheld shooting. The cold shoe top handle allows mounting a microphone while carrying the rig. Designed to work with the BMPCC 4K.

1. Assemble the baseplate: slide the 15mm rails in and lock with thumbscrews. Adjust rail length for your arm reach.
2. Mount the BMPCC 4K to the baseplate via the 1/4-20 thread screw. Tighten firmly.
3. Attach the top handle to the NATO rail on top of the rig and slide to a comfortable grip position.
4. Mount your microphone to the cold shoe on the top handle.
5. Route cables tidily along the rails using Velcro cable ties. Keep cables clear of the record button.
6. Rest the rear of the rig on your shoulder. Adjust the pad so front and rear weight feel roughly equal.
7. Use both hands: one on the top handle for steering, one on the left side handle for secondary support.

IP67-rated waterproof, dustproof, and crushproof case with custom-fit foam interior for the BMPCC 4K body and accessories. Always transport the BMPCC 4K in this case.

A padded shoulder bag with adjustable dividers for the G97 with attached lens, spare battery, Hollyland Lark MAX, VideoMic GO II, and cables. Ideal for field shoots and events.

A variable neutral density filter for the BMPCC 4K lens. Rotate the outer ring to dial in 1–9 stops of light reduction. Essential for shooting outdoors while maintaining the 180° shutter rule.

1. Use outdoors in bright sunlight to maintain wide aperture or correct shutter speed for cinematic motion blur.
2. Thread slowly onto the front of the lens — 82mm filters can be stiff. Don't force it.
3. Start at minimum ND, expose correctly, then increase density until properly exposed. Stay within 1–7 stops to avoid an "X" cross pattern in the image.

The DMW-BLC12 is compatible with both the BMPCC 4K and the G97. Always charge all spare batteries the night before a shoot. The Watson compact charger also works in-car via DC adapter.

1. Insert battery into the charger with contacts aligned to the pins. Light turns orange while charging, green when complete.
2. Always bring at least one fully charged spare on any shoot — the BMPCC 4K is especially power-hungry.
3. After a shoot, recharge all depleted batteries immediately so they're ready for next time.
4. Store batteries at room temperature — never leave in a hot car.

The Kopul 50ft XLR runs the NTG4+ or Sennheiser receiver to the Zoom H6essential over distance. The Kondor Blue cable adapts XLR to 3.5mm TRS for connecting the Zoom output to camera audio input for hybrid recording setups.

1. Always coil cables in an over-under pattern to prevent kinking and internal wire damage.
2. Label both ends with tape on long cable runs so you know which end is which.
3. Check for hum on any XLR cable before an event — wiggle both ends while monitoring audio.
4. Store cables in a separate pouch — never wrap them around equipment.

A "dead cat" furry windshield for the NTG4+. The fur disperses wind turbulence to prevent the low-frequency roar that outdoor shooting creates. Always attach this when shooting outdoors.

1. Slide the WS6 over the NTG4+ mic body. The elastic band secures it without any clips.
2. Ensure the fur is not covering the mic's built-in switches — verify settings before attaching.
3. After outdoor use, shake out any moisture before storing. Allow to fully dry before packing.

High-capacity lithium-ion batteries for the Panasonic AG-HMC150P camcorder. Two batteries are available — always charge both before a shoot and bring the AC adaptor as backup.

1. Attach the battery to the AG-HMC150P by sliding it into the rear battery compartment until it clicks.
2. To charge, use the Panasonic AC adaptor — connect to the DC IN port on the camera with the battery attached.
3. Charge indicator light will turn off when fully charged. Always charge the night before a shoot.
4. Two batteries are available — rotate usage so both stay conditioned.

Two 32GB SDHC cards with cases for use in the AG-HMC150P. The SanDisk card reader with stand and cable allows footage transfer to a computer without removing the camera from your setup.

1. Always format SD cards in-camera before recording: MENU → FORMAT CARD → YES.
2. Insert card into Slot 1 on the AG-HMC150P for primary recording. Use Slot 2 as simultaneous backup if available.
3. After recording, use the SanDisk card reader — plug into a computer via USB, insert the SD card, and drag footage to your editing drive.
4. Store cards in their cases when not in use to prevent damage to the contacts.

A component video breakout cable for connecting the AG-HMC150P to a monitor or broadcast system. BNC and RCA adaptors allow compatibility with a range of display and recording equipment.

1. Connect the multi-pin end of the breakout cable to the COMPONENT OUT port on the AG-HMC150P.
2. Connect the three component leads (Y, Pb, Pr) to the corresponding inputs on your monitor or switcher.
3. Use BNC adaptors for professional broadcast monitors, or RCA adaptors for consumer displays.
4. Switch the camera output to Component in the VIDEO OUT menu settings.

A shade hood that attaches to the AG-HMC150P's flip-out LCD monitor to block ambient light for better visibility when shooting outdoors or in bright environments.

1. Flip out the LCD monitor on the AG-HMC150P fully.
2. Attach the monitor hood by sliding it over the LCD panel — it clips or velcros into place depending on the model.
3. Use whenever shooting outdoors or in brightly lit environments where the screen is hard to see.
4. Remove and store carefully after use — the hood can crack if bent or stored under pressure.

A compact travel video tripod with a fluid video head for smooth pan and tilt. Lever-lock legs deploy quickly. Supports up to 8.8 lbs. Works with both cameras.

1. Open the leg levers and extend each leg to the desired height. Lock each lever firmly — give a tug to confirm.
2. Spread legs to a stable angle. Use the bubble level on the head to confirm the platform is level.
3. Thread the quick-release plate onto your camera's 1/4-20 tripod socket. Tighten the coin-slot screw firmly.
4. Slide the quick-release plate into the head's receiver and lock until you hear/feel a click.
5. Adjust fluid head tension: more tension for smooth controlled pans, less for fast reactive movements.
6. For static interview shots: lock both pan and tilt locks completely. Unlock only to adjust framing.
7. After use, collapse legs and store in the included carrying case. Do not store with legs extended.

A sturdy euro-style boom stand (round base) that positions the NTG4+ as a floor-standing boom mic for interview and studio setups. Extends from 36" to 63" with a 31.5" boom arm.

1. Open the round base — spread the tripod feet evenly to form a stable triangle.
2. Extend the vertical pole to the desired height and tighten the collar lock.
3. Extend the boom arm and position it over the subject's head. Ensure balance — use counterweight if available.
4. Attach the NTG4+ (in its shockmount) to the 5/8" threaded end of the boom arm.
5. Route the XLR cable down the boom arm and vertical pole, securing loosely with a cable tie at each clamp.
6. Position the mic just above and in front of the subject's mouth, angled down at ~45°, kept out of frame.

A video tripod with fluid head and pan handle, designed for smooth camera operation with the AG-HMC150P. The fluid head allows controlled panning and tilting during recording.

1. Extend the tripod legs to the desired height and lock each leg collar firmly.
2. Spread the legs to a stable triangle. Use the built-in bubble level to confirm the head is level.
3. Attach the AG-HMC150P to the head via the tripod base plate on the bottom of the camera.
4. Attach the pan handle to the fluid head — thread clockwise until snug.
5. Adjust fluid head tension using the pan and tilt drag knobs to suit your movement speed.
6. Lock the tilt and pan when not actively moving the camera to prevent drift.
7. After use, collapse the legs and store with the pan handle detached to save space.

The Varizoom is a remote zoom and focus controller that attaches to the tripod pan handle and connects to the AG-HMC150P via the camera's ZOOM connector. It allows smooth, precise zoom control without touching the camera body — essential for stable tripod shots.

1. Mount the Varizoom controller onto the tripod pan handle using the clamp — tighten the thumbscrew until secure.
2. Connect the Varizoom cable to the ZOOM port on the AG-HMC150P (small multi-pin connector on the body).
3. Power on the camera — the Varizoom draws power through the camera connection, no separate battery needed.
4. Use the rocker switch on the Varizoom to zoom in (T) and out (W). Press gently for slow zooms, press harder for faster zooms.
5. Practice smooth, gradual zooms — avoid snapping the rocker to full speed as this creates jarring footage.
6. Refer to the included instructions for model-specific wiring or focus control features.

A folding handcart for transporting heavy equipment such as camera cases, tripods, and gear bags to and from locations. Essential for multi-camera event setups.

1. Unfold the handcart and lock the frame open before loading any equipment.
2. Stack heavier items (cases, tripod bags) on the base platform first, lighter items on top.
3. Use bungee cords or straps to secure gear to the cart before moving — never leave equipment unsecured on a ramp or slope.
4. After use, remove all equipment, fold the cart flat, and store in the equipment room.