Keep Scrape Cameras Going For Late Season Success

November 30, 2021/0 Comments/in Box Blinds, Camera Arms, Trail Cameras /by John Fennell

By: Heath Wood

Don’t Touch That Camera

During October and November, many hunters use game cameras to monitor scrapes. The scrapes may be natural initially made from a nearby buck or a mock scrape. Either way, both make for great scouting tools when used in conjunction with a game camera.

The end of October is the period when scrapes began seeing increased activity from bucks and does. As November begins, so does the scrape activity until bucks begin desperately seeking does to breed. When bucks begin the seeking phase of the rut, it is as if the scrape activity gets turned off like that of a light switch. When scrape activity decreases, hunters often elect to take their cameras and move on to another area. However, if hunters leave cameras going on scrapes throughout the rut, bucks will return afterward, making a great scouting tool again for the late season.

Eight Bucks and One Kill

For the past two years, I have monitored scrapes with Muddy cellular cameras. I have recently been using the Muddy Manifest camera to know when and who is visiting scrapes. On October 20^th of 2021, I accidentally fell into the perfect game camera setup on a natural scrape. I had placed my Muddy Manifest on the edge of a CRP field, facing towards a barbed wire fence where deer often entered the field. On November 2^nd, 2021, I got a text on my phone saying I had a new photo available that had been taken on that camera setup. When I opened my command app to see what the picture would reveal, I was surprised to see a buck making a scrape; he was leaving his scent on the overhead licking branch in the left corner of the picture frame. That day, eight different bucks visited the same scrape, along with multiple does. The Manifest camera captured great photos for the next three days, showing bucks and does using the scrape. As predicted, a week or two later, the deer stopped using the scrape, and I began seeing more rut activity on other places of the farm.

One of the last pictures that I received from the Manifest camera was of a mature eight-pointer who was nose-down, trailing a doe in the photo. On November 18^th, 2021, I was in a Hawk Down & Out Blind when after encountering several different deer that morning, I caught the movement of a buck coming out of the timber at one hundred and eighty yards. After a glance through the binoculars, I knew this was potentially a shooter buck. I placed my 6.5 Creedmoor rifle into position, resting on the frame of the blind window. After finding the buck in my scope, I quickly made confirmation that the buck was the same buck that I had witnessed on camera a couple of weeks prior while chasing a doe. When the mature ten-pointer walked into a clear opening at one hundred and fifty yards, I grunted with my natural voice to get the buck to stop. I squeezed the trigger when the buck stopped, making a great shot on one of my targeted bucks.

The Second Rut

Although I was out of buck tags for my home state of Missouri, I left the Manifest camera in position over the same scrape from weeks prior. My curiosity wanted to see when deer would begin revisiting the scrape and if any other mature bucks would visit. Like clockwork, the day after Thanksgiving, does begin coming to the scrape, soon followed by two or three different bucks. I am anxious to see how long the scrape will be active during the second round of scrape usage.

Some may ask why does and bucks begin using the same scrapes for the second time. The first to the second week of December bucks and does go into what is referred to as the second rut. The second rut is when younger does who didn’t go into estrus during the November rut or does that didn’t get bred will come into heat. It is essential to note that the second rut that occurs later in the season is not as action-packed as the November rut. However, the second rut can be a great time to score on a mature buck if one still has an unfilled tag. When does do not get bred, they begin leaving their scent when they go into estrus again. At the same time, bucks often revisit scrapes to check in on those does who did not get bred. If one keeps their game cameras running in-between time, they will know the exact moment when the chase commences the second time. When scrape activity begins to spark interest again, it is vital to be in the stand hunting. Remember, only a few does did not get bred the first time. The action won’t last long, be in the stand and ready, and you could fill that buck tag before it expires for the year.

How to Kill a Late Season Last-Minute Buck

January 17, 2020/0 Comments/in Box Blinds, Camera Arms, Get Muddy, Trail Camera Accessories, Trail Cameras /by Muddy Outdoors

Harvest a Late Season Buck

Killing a late-season brute requires knowledge of deer behavior, knowing when to attack, and knowing when to pump the brakes

Depending on the strategies you employ and the locations you hunt, late-season hunting can be a hit or miss game. Hunting in December and January is all about striking when the time is right. Late season hunting is very similar to early season hunting in September or early October, where deer are primarily on a bed to feed pattern, and mostly in the afternoons. A stark difference from early season to late season is that deer are in survival mode come December and January. During the early season, deer are carefree, hitting green fields and enjoying the mild conditions while fattening up for autumn. Late season tends to be different. Bucks are worn down from the rut, possibly physically wounded, and desperately in need of high fat and carbohydrate foods to keep them going. Late season success will require knowledge of hunting pressure, food sources, weather patterns, and necessary gear to stay on stand during frigid conditions.

Hunting Pressure

Hunting pressure is seen as a dirty word, but without it, you wouldn’t be able to see deer. If you deer hunt, you pressure deer—end of story. When it comes to late season hunting, you should first evaluate the pressure your property has seen throughout the prior months. In high-pressure gun hunting states like Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania—it might be best to give your property a little break before jumping back in the tree expecting late season movement on open food sources. Of course, there are always exceptions, and maybe you have a very low-pressure property in one of those states. The key with hunting pressure is to understand how much you and surrounding landowners pressured the land you hunt, and evaluate your late season strategies from there. You cannot expect to see great late season movement if you bow hunt your property hard during the rut, then have family out and about rifle hunting with you during firearms season. Mature bucks will not likely leave your property if you still have food sources around, but they will move less often due to hunting pressure and the fact that they need to recover from the rut.

Know the hunting pressure you’ve applied to your land, and pump the breaks a little bit if need be. Patiently waiting for true late season bed to feed patterns to take place is a better strategy than guessing. Use your trail cameras during the period after rifle seasons as well, this will help you gauge deer movement.

Late Season Food Sources

If you have the food, you will have the deer—pretty simple. This is especially true in the late season as bucks are trying to gain back the weight they lost during the rut. Bucks will be in search of high carbohydrate and high fat food sources such as standing soybeans and corn. In the areas I hunt, corn is king during brutal winter temperatures. I find that deer crave soybeans and corn during cold temps, but corn usually wins out. Even the biggest bucks in your area may throw caution to the wayside during frigid temps and make an appearance on big crop fields.

The green food plot you saw so many mature deer on during September and October may be covered in snow during this time period. It also could be bare ground and you might be wondering why your clover, brassica, or winter wheat field isn’t seeing any deer. It all revolves around what deer need to survive. By mid-winter, green food sources usually aren’t supplying what deer need—unless it’s the only good food in the neighborhood. You may find deer hitting green food sources again when temperatures warm up, but don’t count on seeing many deer on your green plots if they aren’t tucked away next to areas of high cover, or a south-facing hill. In most cases, deer would prefer corn or soybeans to a green food plot during cold winter months. However, never say ‘always’ in deer hunting—find what works in your area and plan your late season hunting around it.

Weather Patterns

Weather patterns play a crucial role in late season hunting. Weather dictates deer movement during each phase of the season to some extent. Late season is unique in that cold and warm fronts can get the deer moving, but it all depends on the previous few days of weather. For example, if the temperature has been 40 for around three to four days straight, and then the bottom drops out and the next days high is going to be 17 degrees and clear, it will probably enhance deer movement and could get your target buck up and moving. The opposite is sometimes true during late season as well. If there have been multiple days, or even a week of extremely cold weather, warming temperatures sometimes bring good movement as well. During these warmer temps or ‘breaks’ from the freezing cold, deer take this as an opportunity to sort of ‘stretch out’ and move around, much like humans would during a break from the cold weather. Pay close attention to trail cameras this time of year to gain knowledge of weather fronts and how it affects deer movement in your area.

Late Season Hunting Gear

Late season hunters understand that clothing and gear are crucial to late season success. Although you probably aren’t logging more than 3-4 hours for each late season hunt, you still allow yourself to get cold unless you prepare. To bear the cold weather, preparing for a late season buck hunt might require you to set up a Muddy ground blind or box blind weeks in advance. Proper layering is key for being able to stay out in the elements for as long as possible. Be sure to pack a head cover, neck gaiter, and gloves—there is nothing worse than your extremities being exposed to wind and cold air. As temperatures dip below freezing, or even below zero, you will be glad you prepared and had the necessary gear to make it through your late season quests.

Final Thoughts

Late season is all about keeping tabs on the pulse of deer activity in your area. Understand the above factors and you will give yourself the best chance for success. Knowing when to strike, and when to sit back, is critical for dealing with highly pressured deer around their coveted food sources. Be adaptable and mobile to position yourself for your opportunity.

Holiday Gift Guide for Deer Hunters

December 6, 2019/0 Comments/in Box Blinds, Camera Arms, Climbing Systems, Get Muddy, Ground Blinds, Installation Tools, Muddy Tracks, Shooting Targets, Trail Camera Accessories, Trail Cameras, Treestand Accessories, Uncategorized /by Jeff Breeden

The Deer Hunting Holiday Gift Guide You Need

Each holiday season, people spend an awful lot of time pondering what to get for family members and friends. While it’s good to be thoughtful about gift ideas, the process will be a lot easier when shopping for deer hunters if you use this holiday gift guide. And if you’re a hunter, feel free to nonchalantly leave this Christmas list somewhere your loved ones will notice it. Whether you’re looking for some new items for deer camp or simply want to add some new hunting gear to your collection, there are some great ideas in this hunting gift guide.

1. Pole Saw

For those with land to manage and tree stands to move around, having the right tools makes a big difference. Whether you have a limb blocking a shot from your tree stand or you just need to clean up some trees while doing timber stand improvement projects, the Muddy pole saw is the perfect companion. Its dual-purpose design allows you to use the serrated blade for larger branches and the pruners to cut smaller ones.

2. Trail Camera

Is there such a thing as too many trail cameras? We don’t think so, which is why it deserves a spot on this holiday gift guide. The Pro-Cam 16 Bundle provides everything you need to quickly put it out yet this winter or save it for next spring. Either way, the 16 MP camera takes great pictures or videos and the invisible flash doesn’t spook deer. This is a great hunting gift idea.

3. Shooting Bench

Having a sturdy and well-made shooting bench is important for sighting new rifles in or just plinking practice. The Extreme Shooting Bench has a steel benchtop and comfortable, padded seat, and the seat and top can swivel independently or in tandem. The rubber molded gun rest will keep your firearm sturdy and keep you on point. The bench is equipped with some interchangeable accessories, such as a gear hook, gear basket, and cup holder.

4. Safety Harness

If you’re willing to consider items on a holiday gift guide, there’s a reasonable chance you love the person you’re shopping for. What better way to show that than get a new safety harness for them? The Ambush Safety Harness is weighted for 300 pounds and should be used every time a hunter leaves the ground. As you do your holiday shopping, keep their well-being in mind.

5. Camera Accessories

If the person you’re shopping for wants to start filming their hunts, consider getting them a critical self-filming accessory: a camera arm. The Basic Camera Arm is a great introductory option for people to start filming their hunts. It is fully adjustable and has a quick-release mount to make things easier in the tree stand. A camera arm is a great gift idea for hunters.

6. Shooting Rail

When you have to shoot a rifle from a tree stand, it helps to have a shooting rail to keep you steady and improve your accuracy. The Muddy Universal Shooting Rail attaches to any tree stand setup and adds a layer of stability to help in that critical moment. This makes it the perfect tree stand accessory.

7. Seat

If you prefer to hunt from blinds (whether on the ground or in a tower stand), it can keep you more comfortable in different weather conditions. But to stay comfortable all day, you need a good seat. The Swivel Ground Seat is reasonably packable at only 15 pounds, and swivels 360 degrees so you can make the shot when needed. Since most hunters tend to opt for a 5 gallon bucket, this is a sure hit on this holiday gift guide.

8. Hunting Blind

If a swivel seat will impress, imagine their surprise if you got a new hunting blind for them. The VS360 blind sets up quickly and can fit a couple people comfortably. It has large windows with shoot through mesh and includes brush strips so you can quickly brush it in and disappear. Including hunting blinds on your holiday gift guide will quickly make you #1 on their list.

9. Game Cart

Depending on where you hunt and how close you can approach your hunting location, having a good way to get the deer out of the woods is an important consideration. The Mule Game Cart allows you to haul a 300 pound deer easily and the rubber coated handles make it more comfortable and ergonomic.

10. Lift System

Once you get a deer, it’s nice to have an easy way to lift it up to allow for easier skinning and butchering. The Magnum Lift System has a weight reduction pulley system to lift up to 500 pounds easily and by yourself. It has an automatic self-locking system to stop once you get to the height you need the deer.

Guideline and Expert Tips for Filming Deer Hunts

September 7, 2016/0 Comments/in Camera Arms, Get Muddy /by Muddy Outdoors

Filming Deer Hunts | Guidelines and Expert Tips For Filming

As much as technology has greatly improved the way we send and receive information, it has also totally revolutionized the way we capture information as well. From taking screenshots and photographs to capturing video, technology has made it possible for the everyday person to scratch their creative itch when it comes to photography and videography, and the outdoor world is certainly no exception. It wasn’t long ago when filming your own deer hunt meant packing close to a hundred pounds of camera gear, and tapes into the woods. This gear was often so bulky and cumbersome that it was difficult to not only put in a tree but being able to move the camera fluidly to capture the right angle was often very challenging. Today, it has all changed! Camera equipment has become smaller, lighter and easier to use. Hard VHS tapes have given way to SIM Cards and digital video and videography equipment has become more diversified, with many products specifically made for the deer hunter in mind.

shop camera arms

Clearly, when it comes to filming your own hunts, especially when it comes to deer hunting there is a wide range of camera gear that has helped a lot of hunters fulfill their dream of filming their own hunt. Of all the gear and equipment that has helped make these dreams a reality, there is one critical piece of hardware that made all the difference…the camera arm. Though often underappreciated today’s camera arms have helped to bridge the gap when it comes to capturing that perfect shot and filming a deer hunt of a lifetime. This article will be your guideline for filming deer hunts, as well as suggest a few critical pieces that you will need.

Guideline To Filming Deer Hunts

If you are considering filming your own hunts this fall, or just simply wish to brush up on your skills then you have come to the right place. Regardless of what level you are at, amateur or professional, chances are it all started with watching a hunting show. Watching the success, and flawless camera work of other hunters on TV or on the web is most likely what inspired you to consider bringing camera equipment up in the tree. If you are inspired and drawn to start filming deer hunts then you need to start doing your research. Look into what camera to buy to film hunting, what camera arms to buy, what camera equipment you need, and what considerations you should take note of. That information will go a long way in helping you get started. Here are two blogs that could help you in that regard.

Which Camera to Buy for Filming Deer Hunts | How to Film Your Own Deer Hunt: Part 1

Camera Equipment to Buy | How To Film Your Own Deer Hunt Part 2

While it might seem like a no-brainer to go ahead and start buying gear and filming hunts, if you want great quality or “pro-staff”/ TV show quality then more research should be done. Of course, quality comes with experience so taking a few pointer from this guideline doesn’t hurt.

For this guideline, no one is better to take tips from than Bill Winke and the guys/hunters/cameramen at Midwest Whitetail. Over the years every pro staff member, cameraman, hunter, or even intern for that matter has managed to lay down some amazing footage. The hardest part is it is always consistently getting better with each year. Over the years they have managed to produce a couple of very informative videos on the subject that they have mastered. We have dug these videos up to aid anyone wishing to learn how to start filming deer hunts, or simply brush up on their filming skills. These videos include a step by step guideline for filming hunts, basic filming skills to master, and last but not least some creative filming techniques.

Step By Step Guideline For Filming Hunts

Filming A Proper Hunt

(Video) – A great camera operator can tell the story through their footage. This video covers the basics of filming an entire hunt. MIDWEST WHITETAIL VIDEO

Step 1: Getting Ready – The first step in filming a deer hunt is to film B-Roll (cutaway/filler video) of preparation and the begging of the hunt. This is the first step in the process of capturing every aspect of your hunt, to help completely tell the story.

Step 2: Opening Interview – Interview the hunter or yourself when self-filming a deer hunt. This can take place during or between the first step in getting ready. The opening interview does not have to take place in the tree stand or ground blind. This interview tells the basic situation and setup of the hunt.

Step 3: Walking In/Setup – This is often skipped in deer hunting footage as it can be a pain to get. This footage entails capturing the access method and route you take, climbing up in the tree, setting up your hunting equipment, etc.

Step 4: The 2^nd Interview from Stand – This is the more common interview, the hunter in the stand describing the setup, the hunt, which bucks they are going after, the wind, weather conditions, trail camera intel, etc.

Step 5: Cutaways From Stand – This step suggests another round of B-Roll footage to put perspective on hours passing by. These shots include creative shots of the landscape, pans, leaves, your hunting equipment, the hunter, etc.

Step 6: Filming Deer – After step 5 you can turn the camera off and rest for a bit. Step 6 when filming deer hunts is to film the hunt itself, this means filming deer as they come in and around the stand, the shot, and the deer potentially crashing.

Step 7: Film Reaction Interview – Directly after the shot ( do not turn the camera off) zoom out and film the hunter’s or your reaction. It is critical to capture the emotions of the hunter, good or bad depending on the shot made and the situation. Again directly after the shot, zoom out, refocus on the hunter and capture their post shot interview.

Step 8: Staged Cutaways After Shot – This step arrives directly after step 7, while the light and settings are exactly during the time the shot was made. This B-Roll footage includes calling the deer in, grabbing the bow or gun, hooking up your release, drawing the bow back, it is filler for the intense moments the deer works into shooting range.

Step 9: Climbing Down – Again another storytelling essential. This step includes packing up gear, climbing down, and starting the blood trail.

Step 10: Tracking Footage – Filming the track job is another critical point to connect the shot and the recovery. This also helps in the case of you not finding the deer, to tell the story of how the blood trailing went.

Step 11: Reaction To Finding Deer – Film the hunter’s or your reaction as the deer/buck is recovered. Usually, an emotion capturing critical point for the video.

Step 12: Interview With Deer – After recovery, stage an interview segment. This includes a scenic area close to where the deer was shot. This is an interview for the hunter to explain the hunt, the history with the deer, and other critical information before the video ends.

Step 13: Hero Shots And Extra Cuts – This includes footage of the deer, the antlers, the shot placement, the hunter looking at the antlers, friends or family looking at the deer, and other B-Roll footage to fill the post interview with and give the audience a better look at the harvest.

Creative Filming Techniques

(Video) – Being able to tell a story through footage is the ultimate goal of a camera man. In this video, we go through some of the more advanced ways to film a hunt.

It’s important to not remain to “scripted”. Staying to a basic format and the same shots over and over again could spell a disaster for your hunting footage and video. With as much footage as Midwest Whitetail lays down, it’s important that they “keep it fresh” with creative filming techniques. This is considered getting into the advanced stages of filming deer hunts, but important to keep in the back of your mind as you progress your own deer hunt filming skills.

The Base of Filming Deer Hunts: Camera Arms

Despite common misconceptions, there is more to a camera arm that meets the eye. The biggest mistake you can make is not going with the right “base of your hunt”. Today’s camera arms offer a wide range of features that can help the hunter or cameraman flow through the step by step guide above, as well as get creative with their filming.

Much like any product, a great place to begin your filming career is at the ground level, utilizing a Basic camera arm. A basic camera arm is just that, it’s basic, and will provide someone a solid foundation by which to mount a camera and film a hunt. While you certainly won’t be doing anything super fancy it will certainly get the job done. Muddy’s basic camera arm, for example, is a great option for the beginner who is headed out deer hunting, and would like to try their hand at filming their own hunt. Like most camera arms, it can attach directly to the tree and is perfect for self-filming situations. Weighing in at four pounds, it certainly will not add a lot of bulk to your pack which again makes it perfect for those solo-deer hunting missions. The head of this camera arm can swing 360 degrees, which is great for capturing an “in the stand” interview right after the shot. The arm itself will extend and swing 180 degrees which is perfect for those self-filming scenarios.

Which One Is For You?

When it comes to deer hunting, even the slightest movement can often be enough to blow a hunt. It is almost ridiculous just how easy it can be for a deer to bust a hunter in the tree stand with plenty of cover with just the slightest movement of a hand. When it comes to filming hunts, sometimes less can really be more. In addition, some hunters just don’t like to get too fancy. If you fall into this category then it might be worthwhile to simply invest in a camera holder rather than a camera arm. Muddy’s Micro-Lite camera holder is perfect for the hunter that doesn’t want to get busted while panning the camera. This camera holder can fit onto a wide range of products like the Muddy Multi-Hanger or Tree Step and can provide you a great vantage point to take some wide angle video. If you happen to be a self-filming coinsure with multiple cameras who is looking to capture multiple angles, this camera holder can also be a great addition to your arsenal and give you that perfect over the should vantage point.

When it comes to filming your own hunt, angles can be the biggest challenge you can face. Wild animals don’t know how to respond to a camera. They are unable to follow direction, and often go off script and unfortunately sometimes a poor camera angle can make the difference between pulling the trigger and not. Having a camera arm that not only gives the videographer the proper stability to take a great video but can also adjust as needed to make sure that they keep the target in the frame is very important. In order to check all these boxes, Muddy Outdoors developed the Hunter camera arm. This camera arm is designed for those hunters who have dedicated to the art of filming hunts. The Hunter camera arm offers extremely quiet joints & pivots with 47 inches of reach in over 180 degrees of swing. Most importantly, this camera arm has five points of adjustment which should allow you capture that Pop & Young regardless of where he goes. Most importantly, this camera arm will not weigh you down. Tipping the scales at seven pounds, the compact design can fit into most packs and can attach to the tree in seconds.

There are a lot of camera arm options out there, so it is always important to do your homework before you make your purchase. Doing the legwork ahead of time can really help you narrow down your search later.

Picking the Right Camera Arm

You have decided that you want to try your hand at filming your own hunt. You have done a little research and have brushed up on what types of camera arms are on the market today, and now it is time to decide which one to get. When it comes to spending your hard earned cash, especially when investing in outdoor hardware like a camera arm, it is always a good idea to spend some time thinking it through. We are all guilty of making an impulse buy every now and then but when you are talking about filming equipment, you can save yourself a lot of headaches by doing your homework and getting it right the first time. Here are a few things to consider before purchasing your camera arm.

The first thing that you need to identify is your filming style. Are planning to truly “self-film” DIY style or is there the potential of having someone film you? Your camera arm choice can go a couple of different ways depending on how you answer this question. If you are looking for just a simple, DIY self-film opportunity then a product like the Basic Camera Arm or the Micro-Lite might just be the ticket. If you and your hunting buddy are wanting to hang a couple Vantage Point’s and try your hand at some high production work then the Hunter camera arm or the Outfitter camera arm might be what you need.

Once you have identified your filming style, it is still always a smart idea to think about the terrain that you plan to film in. It goes without saying that if you are going to be utilizing a camera arm that it is likely you will either be filming in or next to a tree, however, it is really important to consider how difficult it might be to get camera equipment in and out of your hunting area. Although these camera arms are some of the most durable and lightest around, when it comes to traversing difficult terrain even your Magnum safety harness can start to feel heavy after a while. Whether or not you plan to leave your camera arm permanently attached to the tree for the season can sometimes help make up the difference for a long hike, however, if you are planning to run and gun this season you should certainly consider this factor before making your camera arm selection.

Setting Your Camera Arm

Anyone how has filmed a hunt, especially a DIY self-filmed hunt will tell you there is no such thing as the perfect set up. Trees are often uneven and leaning one way or another. Sometimes the best killing tree doesn’t make the best filming tree. Luckily, today’s camera arms come with several different features such as a sight level and ratchet strap fastening system that can help the hunter adjust on the fly and still come away with a solid video that they can be proud of.

When it comes to setting up your camera arm, regardless if you are being filmed or self-filming there are really two very basic rules that you need to always follow. Rule number one; always do your best to mount the camera in the same tree the stand you will be hunting from. While this may leave you thinking “well…duh”, you would be surprised at just how many hunters will try to secure the arm to a nearby tree, thinking that the angle may be a little better. While the camera may seem close at the time, when a deer is into bow range even the slightest movement can be critical. Having the camera either over your shoulder or right in front of you is hands down the best case scenario.

Rule number two, although the video is important, make sure the camera does not hinder you taking the shot. Today’s hunting camera arms have an excellent range of motion, which allows them to be very versatile in terms of where you place them in the tree. This versatility ensures that you have the highest probability of staying with an animal while it’s moving, and thereby ensuring that you have a better chance capturing the harvest on film. It is very important when setting your camera arm that you think through your angles and ensure that your camera is in the right place to capture an animal passing through your shooting lanes. Additionally, you want to make sure that the camera and camera are not in the way, making it difficult to make the shot. So, don’t just assume because you are strapped in the tree and the camera batteries are full that you are ready to go, take some time and work through your camera angels as it can save you a lot of heartaches later on.

Filming your own hunts is an excellent challenge to pursue this fall, and can be done by anyone. The quality, however, will greatly depend on upon your camera gear and the way you handle a camera. Of course, great camera handling comes with experience, reading up on this guideline for filming deer hunts certainly does not hurt. Taking the time to research tips and techniques, and what to invest in as far as the right equipment such as a camera arm, can really make the difference between an amateur video and a professional looking hunts. If you are looking to up the odds and try something new this fall then consider hitting the woods with a hunting camera arm and camera in tow. It can make for some amazing memories!

camera arms for filming hunts | Muddy Outdoors

Camera Arms | Which Camera Arm Is Right For You?

August 26, 2016/0 Comments/in Camera Arms, Get Muddy /by Muddy Outdoors

Which Muddy Camera Arm Is Right For You?

Every year more and more deer hunters are taking to the woods with cameras. Filming your deer hunt is now a common practice among hunters. With deer season just around the corner, and pre-season preparation coming to an end, one final thing on your to do list may be to prepare to film your own deer hunts. This would mean purchasing a camera, a camera arm, and getting prepared to start filming your hunts this year. In this case you are looking for camera arms and you need suggestions for this fall.

When it comes to camera arms buying the right one for the job is critical. Why? If you are just beginning to film hunts, or this will be the first year you try your hand at filming deer hunts you may wonder that, but experience will tell you that the entire production depends on the camera arm. It is the base of your hunt. Ensuring that you have a solid base and reliable camera arm, will ensure you actually enjoy filming your hunts. Take a look at Muddy’s camera arms to see which is right for you. Keep in mind, what camera you will be purchasing, who or what you are filming for, and how much “stuff” you want to take in the tree. If you need help deciding on those tips, check out the blog below.

Camera Gear You Need

Muddy Basic Camera Arm

(Video) – The Muddy Basic Camera Arm features a release mount and a lightweight design for transport. This camera arm also features a forearm and camera head swinging 360 degree. This basic camera arm provides a camera arm to get the job done with a price that is under the competition

PRODUCT FEATURES

Adjustable Camera Arm Features a Quick-Release Mount for Convenience!
Lightweight Design for Easy Transport

PRODUCT SPECS

FULLY ADJUSTABALE: Forearm & Camera Head Adjust a Full 360 Degrees + Extension Arm Swings 180 Degrees;
WEIGHT RATING: 4 Lbs.

Muddy Outfitter Camera Arm

(Video) – The Muddy Outfitter Camera Arm has extremely quiet joints and pivots and is easily pack-able. This camera arm sets up in seconds and has two different bolts for fluid heads. This hunting camera arm comes with a ratchet strap, bubble level, and quick release level adjustments. This camera arm weighs in at 4.5 lbs making it a perfect option for carrying into the stand during every hunt.

PRODUCT FEATURES

Extremely Quiet Joints & Pivots!
Easily Packable & Sets up in Seconds!
2 Different Camera Bolt Sizes
Included Bubble Level
Quick Release Lever Adjustments
Ratchet Strap

PRODUCT SPECS

SIZE: 4” Wide x 14” Tall x 40” Long (with full arm extension);
WEIGHT: 4.5 Lbs.;
WEIGHT RATING: 10 Lbs.;
USE: Easy Leveling + Quick Release Lever + 360 Degree Extendable Arm; Gives you the Perfect Camera Angle!

Muddy Hunter Camera Arm

(Video) – The Muddy Hunter Camera Arm measures in at 47 inches long with extremely quiet pivots and joints. This camera arm has five points of adjustment and is loaded with features that support effortless and flawless filming. This camera arm is easily pack-able and sets up in seconds. It has a weight rating of 15 lbs and comes in at 7 lbs.

PRODUCT FEATURES

Measures in at 4”W x 14”T x 47”
Extremely quiet joints & pivots.
Complete with easy grip tightening knob, bubble level, spring-loaded lever adjustment and silent ratchet straps.
Easily packable and sets up in seconds.
Weight rating of 15 Lbs
Weighs in at 7 Lbs.

PRODUCT SPECS

Size 4”W x 14”T x 47”L (with full extension arm)
Design 47” Reach with Over 5 Points of Adjustment
Use Extremely Quiet Joints & Pivots; Easily Packable & Sets up in Seconds!
Features Easy Grip Camera Tightening Knob, Bubble Level, Spring-Loaded Lever Adjustment & Silent Ratchet Straps
Weight 7 Lbs.
Weight Rating 15 Lbs.

Which Hunting Camera Arms Are Right For You?

Which of these camera arms are right for you? You may have a difficult time answering this question so here is what you should look for…

Setup: Camera arms should be easy to set up, 3 step process at most. This process should be hang the base, attach the arm, and level the head. If camera arms need any more steps than this, such as tightening down wing nuts or bolts, you will be wasting time in the tree, making noise, and have a better chance at dropping something from the tree.
Easy to carry: Once you gain experience filming with camera arms you will find out quickly that lightweight yet simple arms are easiest. The best way to carry it into the stand is simply have the entire unit, including the fluid head together, and simply attach it to your backpack. When you get up in the tree simply put the base on, and attach the arm.
Smooth: Camera arms must be smooth for fluid pans and flawless filming on the camera arm’s part. This means a sturdy base and hinges upon a camera arms ability to hold the weight of your camera, the fluid head, and the mic plus any other accessories on the camera.
Silent: Camera arms that are noisy, and not well thought out are not a good choice. Moving parts such as unconstructed bases, especially with bare metal exposed make for very loud camera arms. Muddy’s outfitter and hunter camera arms are 2 piece units that are coated to cut down on noise and any potential hiccups you might have.

If you are looking to start filming your own deer hunts this year you will need to start shopping for camera arms. Take these considerations into account, and remember your entire production and film starts with the base…a camera arm.

Muddy Outdoors Camera Arms for Filming Hunts

Which Camera to Buy for Filming Deer Hunts?

June 30, 2016/4 Comments/in Camera Arms, Get Muddy /by Muddy Outdoors

Which Camera to Buy for Filming Deer Hunts | How to Film Your Own Deer Hunt: Part 1

Filming whitetail hunts is becoming more popular each and every year. Whether it is dreaming to become a professional hunter, have a career in the outdoor industry, or just the want to record your own deer hunts for friends and family, buying film gear and hauling it up in the tree stand is a growing trend. While this industry plunges further into multimedia use, video use, and web/TV show content, not a whole lot of information is available on filming your own deer hunting. Fortunately there are some great articles, videos, resources and advice out there if you look for them hard enough. Luckily for you, you happened to stumble upon this series. Part 1 of this series on how to film your own deer hunt, will deal with the actual cameras themselves, and the most important question…”which camera to buy for filming deer hunts?”.

Shop Camera Arms

The topic of filming deer hunting is expansive and never ending, mostly because there are so many different levels of filming. From amateurs to ProStaff members, and TV show quality to creative agencies and videographers, certain advice does not pertain to all hunters taking a video camera to the woods. If you are looking up which camera to buy for filming deer hunts you most likely are just getting into filming, or trying to touch up on your gear and skills before going to the next step in your career. For that level of filming, we have compiled some helpful information.

Which Camera to Buy for Filming Deer Hunts?

By far the most important aspect of filming a whitetail hunt is the cameras and camera gear itself. It is the main tool for the job. While there are many parts, gears, and critical tools that go along with filming such as tripods, fluid heads, and hunting camera arms, the camera itself is what really matters first off.

How to Film Your Own Deer Hunts | Which Camera To Buy

(Video) Are you looking for a detailed video on how to film your own deer hunt? Here are the basics of filming deer hunts, including which camera to buy for filming whitetails.

Overall there are 3 cameras to potentially get or put in your hunting pack. The camcorder, the DSLR, and the action camera.

Camcorder

Camcorders really are the backbone of filming deer hunts. As far as entry level camera gear general advice tries to stick around the $600-$1,200 range. In this category and for the price most hunters shoot for the Canon Vixia HF G10, 20, 30, or G40.

Using a camcorder allows the hunter to dial there filming skills in early. Using a camcorder such as the G30 with a Varizoom remote allows a hunter to very easily self-film a hunt. This is especially true when a hunter is bow hunting and trying to self-film. The Cannon Vixia HF G series cameras will off you a very reliable and basic camera for filming whitetail hunts.

DSLR

The other aspect to filming hunts is housing them somewhere. Once you have successfully filmed a hunt you will most likely upload the hunt to YouTube, or on a web show/ outdoor brands website. Purchasing a DSLR will make this easier for you. This camera will not only supply you with a good overall camera to have around for hero shots, or for documenting memories with the family but can be used as a reliable camera for filming hunts. DSLRs, when used correctly can offer a hunter more options for dialing the camera in perfect for stunning time-lapses, B-roll footage, and very clear focused hunting footage.

When it comes to actually buying a DSLR, so many options are available. Cannon and Sony seem to be by far the leaders in this industry, both offering DSLRs from $600-$1,700 that will do a fine job of filming whitetail hunts.

Action Camera

Anyone that has ever watched hunting shows, or hunting videos, or has dipped their feet into actually filming a whitetail hunt knows an action camera is a critical camera to buy for filming deer hunts. The ease and simplicity of the action camera allows a hunter to capture every second and detail of the hunt. This footage, while it is not as professional as the DSLR or Camcorder footage, helps tell the story and fill in the missing footage of the bigger cameras. It also can get great angles and footage that are unique to your style of hunting or filming.

The GoPro is the obvious choice here but many other companies have made small action cameras cheap and available for hunters even on the lowest budget. The one warning we can give here is to not use an action camera to film your entire hunt. At most a viewer will only be able to see the outline of a deer, maybe your arrow or your gun firing, and the brown dot (deer) run off. An action camera should be used to film the second angle of the hunt, or some downright cool and creative b-roll shots!

Deer Minerals 101

This is a beginner’s introduction into which camera to buy for filming deer hunts. If you are looking for more detailed content on other gear to use when filming deer hunts, or specific information, advice and tips on filming, don’t worry it is on its way. Look out in the near future for more blogs and videos on our Get Muddy Blog. The next segments will cover camera gear considerations for purchase, including one of the most important pieces of film equipment pertaining to whitetails, the camera arm.