Zooming into 360-Degree Video: A Funny Adventure with the Zoom H2n Recorder
Oh, Zoom H2n, my gleaming metallic companion. Some may remark, "What a sleek little gizmo," while others may wonder, "How many batteries does this thing need?" (FYI, it takes two AA batteries to run for 20 hours, less if you forget to turn it off at night; ask me how I know).
Today, I'll be sharing my exploits (and mishaps) using the Zoom H2n recorder while shooting 360 movies. Prepare to grumble, chuckle, and perhaps learn something along the way.
1: Unboxing and Reality Check
When I initially got the Zoom H2n, I imagined a scenario from a science fiction film: sleek metallic outlines, a smart digital display, and maybe a calming voice welcoming me, "Good evening, you talented 360-degree video creator." Instead, I was faced with what seems to be a cross between a misplaced remote control and a Walkman from the 1990s. But, hey, don't judge a microphone by its cover!
2: The Trial Run
The first step in every technical adventure is to put the gadget to the test. So, after spending hours poring at the instructions and eating an obscene number of chips (must fuel the brain, right? ), I decided to execute a test run.
I placed my 360 camera in the midst of my living room, amid potted plants, a perplexed cat, and a suspicious roommate. The Zoom H2n was put next to the camera, with its five built-in microphones configured to catch sound in all directions. I hit record and got into a heated argument with my roommate over whether pineapple goes on pizza (the answer is yes).
The end result? An fascinating 360 film with such good audio clarity that you could hear my dignity disintegrate when my roommate angrily disagreed with my pizza selection.
3: The Oops, I Left the Recorder On Mishap
Not to mention the "fun" aspect of any technology journey: determining battery life. I had the recorder out for a scheduled 360 video shoot and had left it on overnight, expecting it would survive. Oh, how foolish I was.
The next morning, my Zoom H2n was turned off, and the battery indicator flashed like a beacon of my folly. I discovered the hard way that keeping your recorder on all night is a great way to waste batteries. On the plus side, I now have a lifetime supply of AA batteries.
4: Outdoor Adventure
Next, I decided to go outside with my Zoom H2n and 360 camera. One little issue: the wind. Consider this: a beautiful 360-degree video of a park is marred by the sound of an angry, whistling goblin. That's how the wind sounded on the audio.
Fortunately, the answer was straightforward: a windshield. It's a useful item that goes over the microphones and gives your recorder the appearance of having a terrible hair day. But, well, it's functional. The goblin was expelled, and the audio was preserved.
The Final Decision
Even though I've made fun of the Zoom H2n, it's a terrific gadget for collecting audio for 360 films. Yes, it lacks the appearance of a modern device and a battery that can withstand inadvertent all-nighters, but the quality it offers to your films is outstanding. I've grown to like this odd little gizmo, goblin sounds and all.
So, whether you're an experienced cameraman or an audio newbie like me, give the Zoom H2n a go. It will take you on an incredible voyage full of fun, learning, and, most likely, a few too many batteries.
