I first came across the Veo cam system when looking for an easy to use camera set up to record training sessions and matches.
Everything on the Veo website looked easy to use and perfect for an oldie like me.
The initial costs seemed reasonable considering other options on the market but Veo gives you so much more. From their website, the action footage looked clear and HD quality but I was intrigued to see how this unit could produce such great images. I was really excited to get my hands on the camera and tripod set up so could and see the first batch of footage once it arrived.
The camera comes in its own bespoke toughened case which is seriously good quality, the camera is well protected in transit and in all weathers.
Once I had the unit at home the set up could not have been easier. A simple, easy to follow guide-book and a bit of common sense meant I was up and running in minutes. I used an iPhone to set up the camera and connect to its own WIFI network, really simple to do.
Once the camera was charged, it was ready to go.
The high-quality tripod from Manfrotto is big but super sturdy and easy to use, the camera clicks into its own bracket on top and is secured in seconds. This system is a perfect one-person operation, I can carry the tripod and case together to the side of the pitch and set up in minutes.
Once the camera is up at full 3.6m and stood at the centre line, facing the pitch you are good to go. The camera connects to your phone and from there you just check the two images are catching both halves of the pitch and press start.
The two lenses that cover 180 degrees of pitch are a game-changer, no need to stand by the camera and pivot the lens to follow the action, no missing a goal because you were distracted…
Veo robots do it all for you.
So even though I had set up the camera I was then free to coach a session, run the line or chat with the other parents.
Once the game or session is over, the camera can be stopped by using your phone and you give the footage a name for easy reference. Packing away is simple and quick, everything back in the car in minutes.
As soon as I get home, it’s a simple case of connecting the camera to the internet using an Ethernet cable, connecting power lead and letting it upload automatically.
Due to the file size this can take a while but once you get used to the time frame you can just let it get on with it in the background.
Then comes the exciting wait for an email from Veo saying your footage is ready! Despite them advising this could take 24hrs, I have only had to wait for about 6-8hrs for a fully processed and edited video to be ready to view. Which normally means coaches and players can have video links in their inboxes on Sunday night or first thing Monday morning.
The editing is a wonder to behold, the footage looks so professional and has blown everybody away. Opposition coaches who I send the videos to have been super impressed, and more than a bit jealous of our set up, I have no doubt these cameras will be everywhere soon.
Parents and grandparents also love to see their children in action and this was an aspect of the system I hadn’t thought about, but what a great way for distant relatives to watch their kids playing and get involved.
The players get sent links to the videos to review before their next session or game, this massively helps with their development, visually learning really works. They love to see themselves and also take great interest in their individual and team performance. Coaches love the ability to highlight good areas and the opportunity to go over some areas that might need more work or focus.
The videos also allow coaches and players to watch the action away for the heat of competition and have a less ‘emotional’ reaction to performances.
It’s amazing how differently you view a game 24hrs after the final whistle.
It also gives any team or club the ability to record and document all their games & session, building a brilliant archive library for years to come.
All in all, this system is a total winner and I could not recommend it highly enough, of course, there are a few elements that can be improved but I have been really impressed by Veo’s support teams and willingness to listen to suggestions and feedback.
I fully expect the system will continue to improve and develop as the Veo team seem to love their work and strive to improve this groundbreaking product.
There are many great editing features that I have not yet even explored but I’m taking time to work on this now that sadly football is on hold.
Really looking forward to getting it back out and continuing to make Veo a vital part of every session and every game.
