Video camera, light combo?

jtompilot

jtompilot

AzB Silver Member
Silver Member
I’ve got a 9’ Peter Vitale, Lord Nelson table coming and wondering what to do about a light and camera installation. My idea is to build a light using three 2x2 led lights from HD and building light cabinet to kinda match the table. What kind camera should I get and is it better to mount it in the center or end of the table? Might want two cameras so I can see what I’m doing wrong🤣 I could also use someone’s plans to help me with the light fixture.
 
Perimeter Billiard Lights. The light is awesome. Easy to assemble and install. It comes with a remote and is dimmable so you can adjust to your own comfort level. The owner is very easy to work with too. Highly recommend.

For the camera, I like the Canon Vixia HF G20 camera and have a couple. I was already using them for business stuff and they work really well for the table. They don't make them anymore but you can get them used on ebay. I use those for side or end mount, or if you want to use on a tripod to record your stance or stroke.

If you mount in the center you need to make sure you have enough ceiling height that you don't get fisheye. That will be a key factor in your camera choice. I had that problem because my basement is finished and doesn't have a high ceiling. I tried a bunch of cameras and lenses and found the Sony FDR-X3000 did the best job on that without getting into a more expensive setup. At my ceiling height it has slight fisheye but is very acceptable. I tried several cameras with wide angle lenses but the Sony worked better. I got those several years ago so there may be a better option now. Your mileage may vary.
 
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I've got the perfect camera for you. It plugs into your computer with a USB cable, and you record to your computer using free OBS software (or stream if you want to). I tested about 20 cameras in my other thread. I didn't follow up with this one yet in that thread, as I had too much going on to make a review, but it's the best one. This one is for the typical end rail position, not the direct overhead position. (I have one for that too).

It's all manual control, which is better for pool. There is no hunting of the autofocus and auto white balance that most cameras today have, which causes the picture to change when someone walks in front of the camera. I'm sure you've seen this effect on many streams.

This one. Make sure to get the 6-12mm version. If you have about 12" of backstroke room to your wall on a 9' table, this will work great. There is no sound, you will need a separate microphone, which can also plug into your computer with USB and is controlled by the OBS software.
Link:

Screenshot:
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Stay away from perimeter lights, especially the Predator Arena. They are blinding. Worst light ever made for pool, IMO. If you make your own like you are suggesting, you can buy the egg-shell grates from home depot for commodity pricing.

If you want an overhead camera, use qty 2 2x4 lights, and leave 6" or so between them for the camera.
 
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