We aim to explain all of our equipment and go over questions or concerns you may have when you pick up your equipment, however, we know there's a lot of information to cover and plenty of variables to consider.
That's why we made this playlist of tutorials on how to use some of our most popular equipment.
The BeachTek audio adapter is a two-channel, transformer balanced XLR adapter for today's small, compact camcorders. This adapter is designed to easily attach professional microphones and other audio gear to any camcorder that has a built-in microphone jack. This adapter gives you all the benefits of using balanced audio devices for noise-free operation as well as control over the signal levels to ensure the best possible sound recording. No power or batteries are required to operate the adapter.
A "Boom" style shotgun microphone is a long microphone that is designed to capture sound directly where it is pointing. These are generally used alongside video projects for audio. Boom microphones come with a boom pole so that someone can hold it out of the camera’s view.
The shure X2u is a plug and play adapter for XLR to USB. You can also use the adapter to adjust volume and gain. This pairs well with a microphone and XLR cord for quick and easy recordings on a computer.
This is perhaps the most important product introduction for musicians and the rest of the civilized world since the iPod and iPad. Now, thanks to the iRig Pre, you can hook your favorite microphone to your smartdevice device and join the mobile music revolution. iThe iRig Pre has a 48v Phantom Power feature that lets you use your favorite condenser microphone with your iOS device. But don't worry… the phantom doesn't eat your device battery, it takes a standard 9v
Use this to convert XLR microphone inputs to a digital output.
Common uses include XLR to audio recorder, or smartphone.
This mixer allows you to connect up to 2 XLR microphones and adjust their volumes for a recording on the computer of your choice. This mixer is great if you are recording multiple people with multiple microphones that need to be individually controlled.
This is a 2 piece Bluetooth microphone lapel microphone set up. You use one end as your microphone and the other plugs into your phone for simple and easy audio recording.
There are a great number of things you can do to improve the audio quality of your video productions, and using a good on-camera shotgun microphone is one of them.
More often than not, though, shotgun microphones prove to be one of the most effective on-camera tools for sound capture, which is due to their ability to reject sound to the sides and rear, and to prioritize the sound in front of the mic.It needs to be noted that shotguns aren't the best choice for every situation.
This is a shotgun microphone designed to connect directly to a camera or camcorder. You just plug it in and attach it and off you go!
1.8mm Shotgun Microphone
AAA Battery
Hot shoe mount adapter
This is a foot pedal that connects to a transcription software. This is essentialy a "Start/Stop button". This is a great option if you have a longer audio recording that you are listening to and need a way to start and stop the recording automatically. This pairs with software that auto installs when the unit is connected.
The Zoom H4n is the Student Multimedia Studio's most professional and versatile audio recording device. With a built in X/Y microphone at the top, the H4n is great for stereo recordings on the street, or in a studio.
At the bottom, the H4n boasts 2 XLR inputs that can record to independent channels - allowing for a more controlled and variable recording style.
The H4n also provides an onboard MS decoder so you can do MS ("Mid-Side") recording using external microphones. This is an incredible technique that allows you to adjust the width of the stereo image after it has been recorded, while maintaining perfect mono compatibility, making it especially useful for film, video and television projects.
The Zoom H1 'Handy Recorder' is SMS's recommended "On the Go" microphone for field recordings, podcasts, and quick recordings with structure and control.
The Zoom H2 is a simple audio recording device great for recording any type of media. It’s good for a single person or multiple as long as the recording device is in the middle of the group.
A boundary microphone is the ideal device for recording a small group of people, or to enhance your voice during a web-teleconference call.
Our boundary microphones have USB or 1.8mm inputs for a variety of different device choices.
Equipped with a USB output, the AT2020USB+ is designed for digitally capturing music or any acoustic audio source using your favorite recording software. The microphone offers studio-quality articulation and intelligibility perfect for singer/songwriters, podcasters, voice-over artists, field recorders, and home studio recorders.
This Wireless lavalier (Lapel or 'Lav') is a dependable camera-mount system that delivers uncompromising audio quality while still being easy to use and fast to set up with no menu diving. It is made with simplicity in mind for DIY cameramen, videographers, vloggers, and journalists working in the field without a crew. This unit has a HFR range of about 200yrds (line of sight)
This mixer allows you to connect up to 2 XLR microphones and adjust their volumes for a recording on the computer of your choice. This mixer is great if you are recording multiple people with multiple microphones that need to be individually controlled.
This PA (public address) system ideal for outdoor presentation, or indoor presentation for groups of more than 30 people. The 2-way speaker is powered by 75W of power to produce up to 110db of clear, intelligible sound. The rear panel features bass and treble tone controls, and a full complement of input and output connectors. These include a pair of XLR microphone inputs, both 1/4" and RCA lines in and out.
This item has an internal battery, which means that, on full charge, the unit should last for about 2 hours on battery power alone.
This unit weighs approximately 15lbs.
The Liberty Platinum Basic Package LBP-7500 from Anchor Audio is a powerful portable PA system that operates on an internal rechargeable battery, or on AC power. It features 2 built-in wireless microphone receivers, and 2 WH-6000 wireless handheld microphones. It also features multiple inputs for wired microphones, and a built-in MP3 player. A tripod speaker stand is included that raises the system up to ear level for optimal performance. It's an easy to transport PA system that sets up quickly.
The Liberty system was designed to be a great sounding PA system that anyone can use without training. Its internally rechargeable battery means that you can use the Liberty for several hours away from a power source.
This unit weighs approximately 40lbs.
The RescueMAN portable PA system is designed for first responders who need to amplify their voice during an emergency situation. With 100 dB of crystal clear sound, a siren alert button, and record & replay function, the RescueMAN is a must-have at an outdoor event where a presentor needs to grab attention without sacrificing mobility.
The RescueMAN can be worn around your waist or over your shoulder using the adjustable dual shoulder or belt strap.
The ultra-compact B205D packs 150 Watts of amazing Class-D sound into a speaker system so light. But don’t let the small size fool you – the B205D cranks out truckloads of high-quality sound; more than enough to serve as a PA system for your more intimate gigs and meetings.
This unit weighs approximately 5lbs.
This electric motor attaches to the base of your camera to get a smooth, controlled movement. While small, it is perfect to help you get that perfectly smooth panning movement shot for your projects. This unit is adjustable and can be set to 3 different speeds.
This item is restricted to students in the New Media Communications program.
This is a video camera accessory.
This stabilizer is a great tool for capturing smooth video while moving. This stabilizer uses a counterweight system to ensure your video is as smooth as possible.
The remote camera shutter is a complete lightweight remote control outfit that provides a way to trip your camera's shutter while avoiding any possible unwanted camera movement. The remote camera shutter works in either wired or wireless mode. This is ideal for photographing wildlife, and for macro and close-up photos or long exposures, where the slightest camera movement can ruin a picture.
With the dual function release, press halfway to focus, then press all the way to trigger the shutter. A four-second delay function makes it easy to produce self-portraits.
This document camera comes with two gooseneck appendiges. The primary arm is the camera, and the secondary is a support light. This camera has a USB connection, and is ideal for sharing physical media through digital means.
USB connecting cable
Remote control unit
The ID500 offers the equivalent of 300W of tungsten power at 5,600K in a slim 5.8 lb package. The big difference is that the ID500-v2 does away with old-school knobs in favor of an LCD touch screen with smooth dimming control from 0-100% in 100 steps.
The ID500-v2 has built-in barndoors, a convenient integrated handle and a multi-voltage power supply for world-wide use. This light is perfect for video and photography projects.
The Behringer Ultravoice XM1800S is a handheld cardioid dynamic microphone offering high-feedback immunity and voice-tailored sound for vocals, speech, and instruments in studios is a fantastic choice for your project needs. It offers clear, high quality audio and is ideal for home podcast studios or those familiar with XLR inputs.
This is the standard model for our photography tripods, as opposed to our larger style video tripods. This unit has a built in bubble level for removing any slant or angle to your photo. Additionally the mounting plate can be tilted 90 degrees for easier portrait style shooting. The center column is adjustable, and can be raised or lowered.
Minimum Height: 1.5ft
Maximum Height: 4ft (5ft with center column)
Not recommended for larger cameras
An on-camera flash, also known brand-wise as a “speedlight” or “speedlite,” is an indispensible accessory for many photographers; it provides additional light when conditions become too dark, allows you to achieve more balanced exposures in daylight, and can also be used to control or trigger other flash light sources. Additionally, a flash can be used as a highly effective creative tool to establish an aesthetic that elevates your imagery when lighting conditions are considered less than stellar.
This is the standard model for our video tripods, as opposed to our smaller style photography tripods or monopods. This unit has a built in bubble level for removing any slant or angle to your video. The center column is adjustable, and can be loosened or tightened to make leveling the tripod easier.
Minimum Height: 2ft
Maximum Height: 5ft
Quick release plate
Tripod
A medium wide lens that is excellent for capturing landscapes.
The 24 millimeter fixed (prime) lens is a staff favorite for wide angle, and macro photography alike. This lens has built-in Auto Focus.
This lens has an F-stop minimum of 2.8
24mm lens interchangeable with Canon DSLRs models T3, T2i, T5i, and T6
The 'Nifty-Fifty', 50 millimeter fixed (prime) lens is a SMS staff favorite; perfect for portraits and great in low light.
This lens has built-in Auto Focus.
This lens is ideal for art projects, and does take a bit of practice to get used to. This lens 'punches in' quite a bit more than our other lenses.
This lens has an F-stop minimum of 1.8, allowing for super shallow depth-of-field effect.
50mm lens interchangeable with Canon DSLRs models T3, T2i, T5i, and T6
The 70-300 millimeter telescope lens is a must have for subjects at a distance. Wether you are taking pictures of birds, landscapes, or styled portraits -- the 70-300 is a standard 'must have' for any photographer. SMS alwasys recommends using this lens with a tripod whenever possible.
This lens has built-in Auto Focus.
70-300 mm lens interchangeable with Canon DSLRs models T3, T2i, T5i, and T6
The Canon Rebel T3 is an excellent photography camera for new users, and those already familiar with the Canon interface. This is an easy to use camera with Automatic modes for new photographers.
The T3 has a 12.2MP CMOS (APS-C) sensor, providing you with high quality JPEG and RAW images.
The camera captures video at 1280 x 720p/30p/25p video. (editors note: If video is a priority for your project, we recommend the Canon T5i camera instead)
This camera can record RAW and/or JPEG images to a standard SD memory card.
This camera has an interchangeable lens system. Alternate lenses are available in our catalouge.
The Canon Rebel T6 is the next upgrade in technology and capability in the Canon Rebel series, surpassing the video capability of the Canon Rebel T3.
The Rebel T6 DSLR Camera is an APS-C format digital SLR camera with an 18 Megapixel sensor. Full HD 1080p at 30 fps and 24 fps is supported. For working in a variety of lighting conditions, the sensitivity range of ISO 100-6400 can be further expanded to ISO 12800 to benefit photographing in low-light situations.
This camera can record RAW and/or JPEG images to a standard SD memory card.
This camera has an interchangeable lens system. Alternate lenses are available in our catalouge.
Take superb shots on the go with the slender and stylish COOLPIX A300. It's small and light enough to slip in a pocket or bag, so you're always ready to shoot close-ups of friends and family with its 8x optical/16x Dynamic Fine Zoom. You'll take share-worthy high resolution photos that you can share with family and friends using Nikon SnapBridge. The 20.1 megepixel sensor CCD image sensor guarantees high-resolution images, while high-performance Vibration Reduction (VR) reduces camera shake, ensuring you only take sharp shots or smooth HD movies.
This camera shoots RAW / JPEG images and HD video and saves data to an SD memory card.
The Nikon D3100 is an excellent photography camera for new users, and those already familiar with the Nikon interface. The Nikon D3100 digital SLR features a high-resolution 14-megapixel CMOS DX sensor.
Capture beautiful pictures and amazing Full HD 1080p movies with sound and full-time autofocus. Easily capture the action other cameras miss with a fast start up time, split-second shutter release, 3 frames per second shooting and 11-point autofocus.
The Nikon D3100 is an excellent photography camera for new users, and those already familiar with the Nikon interface. The Nikon D80 digital SLR features a high-resolution 10.2 megapixel CMOS DX sensor.
Easily capture the action other cameras miss with a fast start up time, split-second shutter release, 3 frames per second shooting and 11-point autofocus.
This camera can record RAW and/or JPEG images to a standard SD memory card.
This camera does not support video recording.
The Canon Rebel T5i is the next upgrade in technology and capability in the Canon Rebel series, surpassing the video capabilities of the Canon Rebel T3.
The Rebel T5i DSLR Camera is an APS-C format digital SLR camera with an 18 Megapixel sensor. A 3.0" Vari-angle Touchscreen LCD screen is great for composing shots using its tilt and swivel capability. The touchscreen is also touch sensitive for menu navication and autofocus. Full HD 1080p at 30 fps and 24 fps is supported. 60 fps is possible when shooting at 720p HD. A built-in stereo microphone with manual audio level adjustment is provided for quality audio recording with your videos.
This camera can record RAW and/or JPEG images to a standard SD memory card.
This camera has an interchangeable lens system. Alternate lenses are available in our catalouge.
The 18-to-55 millimeter lens is a standard "Kit lens" and comes default with all DSLR cameras at SMS. This lens has built in Auto Focus and limited Image Stabilization.
This lens is great for a multitude of shots and angles, and is an easy 'on the go' option for travel, or landscape photography.
This lens has an F-stop range of 3.5 to 5.6
The Interlink Remote Presenter is a simple and ergonomic remote control for your presentation needs. Its polished metal style, raised-icon control keys activate Slide Forward, Slide Back and Slide Hide functions, as well as a laser pointer. Just plug in the 2.4 GHz USB receiver and go. The Navigator's 75' RF wireless range is sufficient for most presentation rooms so you can advance your slides regardless of where you stand or what direction you face.
This projector has a throw (ideal illumination distance) of 6 feet and is ideal for environments where the presenting subject does not want to stand in front of the projection.
Our portable, collapsible projector screens are reliable screens made from aluminum and steel which offers a wide stance for maximum stability.
The screen is height adjustable as is the high-low case mechanism. In addition, there is a fabric lock which holds the screen surface firmly inside the casing during transport. This prevents shifting of the screen which may cause premature wear and tear.
Total height: 57" x 55" Screen
Caution: This item is heavy and large, weighing in at approximately 30lbs
Upon pickup we recommend keeping transport nearby or bring a friend to help carry this equipment.
If you have old slides to show for your presentation, class, or walk down memory lane, we have you covered!
SMS also has digital scanners that can help convert your color slides into high quality digital files. Scanners are located in our open studio space and can be reserved ahead of time, or slides can be converted as a paid service by an SMS employee.
This Panasonic Projector is considered to be our 'medium' level model and is good for medium size classrooms, large groups, or environments with well controlled ambient lighting. The ideal illumination distance (throw) is approximately 20ft. Audio is possible through this device.
The Manfrotto PIXI is an ideal solution for photographers searching for a small, lightweight, portable, and easy-to-use support system. The push-button mechanism enables you to position and lock the ball head in one rapid, intuitive movement. Pushing the button releases the ball joint to move freely. When the button is released, the ball is locked automatically in the selected position.
With the PIXI, you’re provided with a secure base for any shooting situation while the rubber feet guarantee a stable and slip-free foundation on any surface. Thanks to the universal ¼” screw thread and excellent stability, you can use PIXI with a many different digital devices, weighing up to 1 kg.
The Pico Dolly Camera Table Dolly from Pico Dolly is a simple, affordable dolly for capturing dynamic shots with small camcorders and any other type of video-enabled camera, such as a DSLR, mirrorless, or point & shoot model. Perfect for table-top use or low-angle shots, the Pico Dolly adds that crucial element for making otherwise static shots compelling: smooth motion.
Capture stunning Time Lapse Videos with the push of a button! You never thought making Time Lapse Videos could be so easy.
Set it and forget it, the TLC200 PRO creates the video instantly, no post processing required. It's powered by 4 AA batteries, and captures files to SD memory cards up to 32GB in capacity.
The Canon Vixia HFM500 is the perfect choice when you need to record a presentation or class. This camera is beginner friendly too, and SMS is glad to help you with any questions you may have. This camcorder records in full HD, and it is the ideal choice for recordings longer than 20 minutes. This camera records all of your footage to an easy-to-access SD card.
This camera records video in AVCHD format, which is readable by most video editing programs.
The Canon HG10 is the perfect choice when you need to record a presentation or class. This camera is beginner friendly too, and SMS is glad to help you with any questions you may have. This camcorder records in full HD, and it is the ideal choice for recordings longer than 20 minutes. This camera records all of your footage to an easy-to-access SD card.
This is a hard drive camera and records video to an internal built-in hard drive. This camera records video in AVCHD format, which is readable by most video editing programs.
The Canon Vixia HF200 is the perfect choice when you need to record a presentation or class. This camera is beginner friendly too, and SMS is glad to help you with any questions you may have. This camcorder records in full HD, and it is the ideal choice for recordings longer than 20 minutes. This camera records all of your footage to an easy-to-access SD card.
This camera records video in AVCHD format, which is readable by most video editing programs.
The Canon Vixia HFM32 is the perfect choice when you need to record a presentation or class. This camera is beginner friendly too, and SMS is glad to help you with any questions you may have. This camcorder records in full HD, and it is the ideal choice for recordings longer than 20 minutes. This camera records all of your footage to an easy-to-access SD card.
This camera records video in AVCHD format, which is readable by most video editing programs.
The GoPro HERO3 camcorder captures professional-quality video up to 1080 pixels and 5MP photos at 3 frames per second. The GoPro Hero3 is an affordable action camera that boasts borderline professional video quality in a compact package. It can record in a wide range of video frame rates and resolutions that range from 720P at 120 FPS to 4K at 15 FPS. The time-lapse mode lets you capture a series of photos at 0.5 to 60-second intervals.This wearable, mountable camera is extremely versatile.
The Sony NX5 is the most professional option for video recording that SMS offers. The NX5 allows for direct manual control over every element of its video and audio recording options. Labelled as a "prosumer" camera, the NX5 is a step towards professional industry video cameras, while still being easy enough for casual filmmaking. With two SD slots available, recording times are no longer issue. The camera will automatically switch SD cards so you can keep recording uninterrupted.
Due to the complicated nature of this camera, SMS highly recommends a 30-minute introductory workshop (available upon request) before renting equipment for the first time.
Video tutorials for this camera can be found on our equipment tutorial playlist.
The video must be converted by a software editing program to be viewed and manipulated.
Packing professional performance into a compact, streamlined body, the black YI 4K Action Camera makes capturing all your adventures at resolutions up to UHD 4K fast, fun, and easy. An easy comparison to it's rival GoPro, the Yi Action camera boasts 4K video at 30 fps with a high bit rate of 60 Mb/s. Additionally, it supports 2.5K video at 30 fps, 1080p video up to 120 fps, and 12MP still photos in bursts up to 30 fps. A single control button and rear 2.19", 330 ppi LCD touchscreen gives the camera an intuitive, smartphone-like control interface. Set the camera in auto mode for grab-and-shoot simplicity, or manually adjust settings for more advanced control.
Fall, Winter, Spring Term Hours
Monday-Thursday 10am to 9pm
Friday 10am to 6pm
Sunday 3pm to 9pm
Break/Summer Hours
Monday-Friday 10am to 5:30pm
Find us in The Valley Library
On the main floor, by the elevators.
Room 2035