upgrade from consumer video camera

[droliff]

Hi all,

I have just joined this community and am seeking some input.

I have been using a Sony DCR-TRV310 Hi8 consumer video camera (which I have owned for years) for various experimental projects. I would like to upgrade to a better camera and have always heard that the Canons are good.
Does anyone know anything about the Canon XL-2
What should I look for in a camera to upgrade to?

I have recently had the opportunity to do a few web video projects and would like to explore the possibilities of expanding what I offer to clients.
I am a beginning 'final cut express' user.

Any input will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

Dennis

 

[tinx]

budget

budget

first of all, what's your budget for a new camera?

 

[droliff]

camera budget

camera budget

first of all, what's your budget for a new camera?

Hi Tinx.

I am looking at the up to 2500.00 range. I'd like to have 16:9 native
and have an opportunity to obtain an XL-2 for this budget but have also heard great things about the DVX100B.... unfortunately this camera is 4:3 and has a 'squeeze mode'? which would distort the 4:3 to 16:9. If this is accurate info (I'm a newbie at this art form) I wouldn't consider it. To me that would be like creating a painting then squashing and distorting it into another shape.

Any thoughts?

Thanks.

Dennis

 

[tinx]

I'm not sure about the xl-2 but the dvx100b does "squeeze" the 4:3 frame into 16:9. But both of these cameras are Standard Definition cameras, which means if you're not "squeezing" the frame, then you are cropping it with black. So, regardless-- it's still going to be a 4:3 frame.

The XL-2 and the DVX are great cameras, but not many people are shooting SD anymore, and a lot of people are moving away from shooting onto tape.

I think if you have 2500 to spend, you should take a look at some of the new Digital SLRs that shoots in HD video-- you'll have your 16:9 framing, and you can use photo lenses which will add an extra dimension to your images.

It'll be way better than the video cameras you're looking at especially if you're shooting for the web...

Check out the CANON 7D (i think a pkg goes for 1800) or the Lumix GH-1 (lumix is actually panasonic).

 

[alexcraig]

I have the Canon XL2 and have been using it for about 2 years now. It is great for making standard definition videos! The only problem is that everyone is moving towards HD now. I am looking at selling my XL2 and getting the Canon 7D. You might want to look at that. The footage looks amazing. But the XL2 is great because it has built in XLR inputs, shoulder mount, interchangeable lenses, and much, much more.

 

[estandell]

Jejeje, What consicous cinematographer will like to shoot videos with a photographic camera? I think it will be something like chatting in MSN with an IBM typewriter, or using a microwave oven to brew coffee. I don't know but I think it doesn't fit.

 

[alexcraig]

It does seem weird to use a photograph camera to make videos, but what really counts is the video quality, and for the price, it can't be beat. The only footage I have seen that is better then the 7D is the RED, but it's about 15 times more expensive. You can go on Vimeo and watch some footage shot on the 7D. It's quite amazing. If it's about the appearance of the camera for you, you can buy rigs or make them yourself with shoulder mounts, mics etc...

 

[estandell]

Look, I know you have your point and I respect it, but each man made artifact has been invented with a purpose. Like the new cell-phones. Its' basic function is to be able to talk with someone distant. (Tele-Phone, then Cellular-Tele-Phone, then Cellular-Phone, then Cell-Phone), still it has camera, camcorder, music player, etc.

Sometimes we can use a device that has a basic function and a secondary one, but the basic function is for what it is really intended. It is like driving all the way from NY to California. It can be done, but if the budget allows and I can take a plane, I will. Get the point?

In this case, yes, the 7D can do the job, but you must have to ask yourself, am I taking more photos than videos? What quality of video do I intend to produce? You see?

In my case, I have 4 video cameras, all of them take photos but I use a digital camera for photography. Why? Because I will not get the best photo with a video camera. It is not its primary function.

In addition, if you want to produce a well recorded video, you must think in audio. You can install good quality external microphone in a professional video camera, but not in a professional photographic camera.

It is not weird, it is just that it is not intended for it.

I hope this help

 

[droliff]

good input

good input

Thanks for the input everyone. I may be going HD and stepping up the budget so any thoughts on Canon XH-A1s vs Panasonic HMC150 ?
Best,

Dennis

Dennis Roliff Photography