Why is that most of the attention concerning HDV camcorders goes to Panasonic and Sony and not JVC?

Q. Eventhough this HDV camera has 1/3"ccds, has interchangeable lens and can record in 720p for less price?

A. Are you talking about the HD110/ HD200/ HD250? Well then, I totally agree with you. They are excellent cameras, and in my opinion, the best HDV cameras on the market. It's actually one of the only HDV cameras that offers a 24p mode as well (Z1U, XH-A1, G1, and XL-H1 don't)

Sony, Canon and Panasonic have always received more attention. period. Anything else is considered a bad camera, and even JVC has a reputation of not being the best company... in some cases that generalization is true, but in this case, it's a horribly wrong misconception. The JVC HD series cameras are excellent! In one review, the HD110U's picture clarity was compared directly to that of the XL-H1. the HD110U is also very popular on low bugdet films and documentaries, as well as various news stations.

On the flips side, there has always been the argument that the JVC HD series cameras can't do the higher res 1080i. That is, of course true, for that matter, what other HDV camera can do 720p? The thing with HDV cameras is that they cannot switch between recording modes like some solid state cameras can do (it can't be 1080i/720p switchable), but if I were to choose, I think I would go with 720p. Cuz as a filmmaker, 720p is much better for its aesthetics as Progressive rather than Interlaced, as well as for space reasons. It's a common misconception that 720p is not "real HD" or that it is "not enough". Well, quite a few indie films as well as documentaries are shot in 720p just fine...720p also saves you a ton of memory when it comes to editing....Actually, the HD series cameras CAN shoot 1080i with the additional purchase of a JVC Hard Drive recording unit.

Like you have said, its Interchangeable lens mount, and professional shoulder-mounted ergonomics give the JVC HD cameras an edge over the HDV competition... Solid State cameras (like Sony's XDCAM or Panasonics DVCPro line) still have the upper hand however.

So, um yeah... the JVC HD series totally powns! So don't anyone else tell you any different!

Original Question

Is there a digitial camera that shoots good movies as well?

Q. I'd like to get my wife a digital camera that she could shoot movies on as well. Not a replacement for our camcorder, but something that will shoot above average movies when we don't have camcorder with us, or it's just easier to bring around like at amusement parks or petting zoos.

A. Yes, there is. It's called the Canon TX1.

It's a 7mp camera that also shoots 720P high definition video. It als has image stabilization and a 10x zoom lens.

Here's a review of the camera here:
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/CanonTX1/

Essentially, you get high quality stills and better than average camcorder functions at 1280 x 720 resolution, 30 fps.

Original Question

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Anyone no of a great professional camcorder?

Q. I am starting video production and am wondering what equiptment is the best to buy, at an affordable price. I guess I am wanting a professional camcorder at a budgeter's price.

A. Great question. Here are my top picks for the best professional camcorder. I have taken price into consideration. If you want HD:

1) Red Scarlet (coming soon, 2009) $3,000
2) Sony PMW-EX1 $6,000
3) JVC GY-HD200U $5,500
4) Panasonic AG-HVX200 $5,000
5) Canon XH-A1 $3,300

RED SCARLET: Many are skeptical about the Red Scarlet as it is a relatively unknown brand, but I believe it is the best professional camcorder under $10,000. No contest. With a traditional camcorder, like that made by Sony, Canon, etc, you'll be lucky if you get one that records in true HD. That is, most camcorders do NOT record in true 1920 x 1080 resolution, apart from the Sony PWM-EX1, as listed above. The Red Scarlet however, records footage in 3K, that is about 150% of the resolution of 1920 x 1080 HD. All that for $3,000. I don't know how well the Scarlet will perform when it is released in 2009 as far as color reproduction, cinematic look, audio capabilities, and manual controls, but I do know that it gives you better resolution than any camera I know of under $20,000. Therefore, the Red Scarlet is definately worth looking into. 3K footage for under $3K is a total steal!
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SONY PMW-EX1: It is a relatively new camcorder that records to tapeless media the SxS cards. The EX1 has better resolution that its Canon, Panasonic and JVC competitors, as the XDCAM cards do NOT compress nearly as much as HDV. Another huge advantage is that it has 3 CMOS chips that are 1/2" each, as opposed to 1/3" or smaller chips found on every other camera under $10,000. The larger image sensor gives your picture a much narrower depth of field, which is great for budding filmmakers, wanting that look of celluloid film. The only setback is that the EX1's media format, the SxS XDCAM media cards only record about 25 minutes of high quality footage on the supplied card, and purchasing additional cards is very expensive.
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JVC HD200U
The HD200U is no Sony, Panasonic, or Canon, but it is an excellent camera nonetheless. Some pro reviews have said that the earlier model, the HD110U was the second best camera as far as picture quality in the prosumer level, next to the Canon XL-H1, which is $8,000. I really like the HD110 and HD200 as it is the only prosumer HD camera, apart from the XL-H1 with interchangeable lenses, rather than a built in lens. The only problem is that the HD200U does not record HD in 1080p or 1080i, but instead, it only has a lower-resolution 720p mode. To me, this isn't all that bad, as I prefer 720p at 60fps over 1080p at 30fps; it blurs much less, but you'll have to make the decision. Numerous independant films have been shot on the JVC HD110 and HD200, so its an excellent camera!

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Panasonic HVX200: The HVX200 is a great inexpensive choice for the indie filmmaker. It has excellent picture quality and an excellent 24p mode. Another huge upside is that it records to both HDV OR P2 cards, so its really convenient. However, it does not have quite as good picture quality as the Sony EX1, nor does it have interchangeable lenses like the JVC HD200. It's an excellent, well-rounded HD camera nonetheless. I found it works excellent with the Redrock M2 35mm adapters though.
____________
Canon XH-A1: The XH-A1 is rated as one of the best cameras out there for its combination of quality and value for your money. I agree. It's a nice, well rounded camera; relatively easy to use (compared to the others at least) and is packed with loads of features, making it an excellent value. My only problem is that it does not have a 720p mode. It also lacks a real 24p mode, and instead has what Canon calls a 24f mode. According to Canon, the 2 are identical, but I really don't know.

For standard definition, which is still a great option, as HD is still new and expensive:
1) Panasonic AG-DVX100B $2,500
2) Canon XL2 $3,000
3) Sony DSR-PD170 $2,500

I really can't decide whether I like the DVX100B or the XL2 better. I'm leaning towads the DVX100B as a better overall camera (and its very user friendly), but then again, the XL2 has interchangeable lenses. Both can record in 24p, which is a great option. The PD170 is a total low-light wonder, is easy to use, but does not have a 24p mode.

If this is still not what you had in mind for a budget, here are some decent consumer HD cameras:
1) Sony HDR-HC3 and HDR-HC9
2) Canon HV20 and HV30

both are HDV. I highly recommend it. I can't stand mini DVD or flash media. HDV is also considerably better than Hard Disk camera; they don't compress your footage quite as much.


Hope that helps, and I apologize if that's still not what you had in mind. Well good luck, and have fun!!!

Original Question

I'm looking for a cheap professional camcorder Any ideas?

Q. I'm lookin at getting the Sony Hdr-FX1.I've heard alot of good reviews about it.Does anyone have any other advice or any other suggestions.
Well I'm actually looking for something smaller more as of hand held. Like the Sony Hvr-fx1 or the canon xl2

A. I would second the answer about the JVC GYHD110..or Gy-HD111e that we have in Europe. Not only will you shoot good quailty HD but it also shoots some of the best SD DV I've ever seen. I have two of them here as well as Canon Xl1s and XL2. However, the bang for buck goes to JVC. There's a much longer learning curve to the JVC for the novice over the Canon but it's worth it. The JVC certainly is a better buy than the Sony and I tested both of them extensively before committing to the JVC. HD will always be a problem with low light on any HD cam. The thing about the JVC because it shoots in 720p 25 (EU) is that you'll need to use it like a film camera with your speed of pans etc. There's also the old question of cool too..which is not a consideration in my case. If you put the Sony and JVC on the street, people will be more likely to get out of your shot with the JVC as it's bigger and looks more professional. However if you're going in to film in anywhere that's sensitive to publicity with the JVC you're more likely to be asked for a press pass. Whereas with the Sony you could claim it's a hobby camera maybe. If you do learn to drive the JVC it will stand you in good stead if you end up in the higher end of broadcast cameras later.
I hope this helps
Best of luck

Original Question

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Anyone no of a great professional camcorder?

Q. I am starting video production and am wondering what equiptment is the best to buy, at an affordable price. I guess I am wanting a professional camcorder at a budgeter's price.

A. Great question. Here are my top picks for the best professional camcorder. I have taken price into consideration. If you want HD:

1) Red Scarlet (coming soon, 2009) $3,000
2) Sony PMW-EX1 $6,000
3) JVC GY-HD200U $5,500
4) Panasonic AG-HVX200 $5,000
5) Canon XH-A1 $3,300

RED SCARLET: Many are skeptical about the Red Scarlet as it is a relatively unknown brand, but I believe it is the best professional camcorder under $10,000. No contest. With a traditional camcorder, like that made by Sony, Canon, etc, you'll be lucky if you get one that records in true HD. That is, most camcorders do NOT record in true 1920 x 1080 resolution, apart from the Sony PWM-EX1, as listed above. The Red Scarlet however, records footage in 3K, that is about 150% of the resolution of 1920 x 1080 HD. All that for $3,000. I don't know how well the Scarlet will perform when it is released in 2009 as far as color reproduction, cinematic look, audio capabilities, and manual controls, but I do know that it gives you better resolution than any camera I know of under $20,000. Therefore, the Red Scarlet is definately worth looking into. 3K footage for under $3K is a total steal!
______________
SONY PMW-EX1: It is a relatively new camcorder that records to tapeless media the SxS cards. The EX1 has better resolution that its Canon, Panasonic and JVC competitors, as the XDCAM cards do NOT compress nearly as much as HDV. Another huge advantage is that it has 3 CMOS chips that are 1/2" each, as opposed to 1/3" or smaller chips found on every other camera under $10,000. The larger image sensor gives your picture a much narrower depth of field, which is great for budding filmmakers, wanting that look of celluloid film. The only setback is that the EX1's media format, the SxS XDCAM media cards only record about 25 minutes of high quality footage on the supplied card, and purchasing additional cards is very expensive.
_______________
JVC HD200U
The HD200U is no Sony, Panasonic, or Canon, but it is an excellent camera nonetheless. Some pro reviews have said that the earlier model, the HD110U was the second best camera as far as picture quality in the prosumer level, next to the Canon XL-H1, which is $8,000. I really like the HD110 and HD200 as it is the only prosumer HD camera, apart from the XL-H1 with interchangeable lenses, rather than a built in lens. The only problem is that the HD200U does not record HD in 1080p or 1080i, but instead, it only has a lower-resolution 720p mode. To me, this isn't all that bad, as I prefer 720p at 60fps over 1080p at 30fps; it blurs much less, but you'll have to make the decision. Numerous independant films have been shot on the JVC HD110 and HD200, so its an excellent camera!

_______________
Panasonic HVX200: The HVX200 is a great inexpensive choice for the indie filmmaker. It has excellent picture quality and an excellent 24p mode. Another huge upside is that it records to both HDV OR P2 cards, so its really convenient. However, it does not have quite as good picture quality as the Sony EX1, nor does it have interchangeable lenses like the JVC HD200. It's an excellent, well-rounded HD camera nonetheless. I found it works excellent with the Redrock M2 35mm adapters though.
____________
Canon XH-A1: The XH-A1 is rated as one of the best cameras out there for its combination of quality and value for your money. I agree. It's a nice, well rounded camera; relatively easy to use (compared to the others at least) and is packed with loads of features, making it an excellent value. My only problem is that it does not have a 720p mode. It also lacks a real 24p mode, and instead has what Canon calls a 24f mode. According to Canon, the 2 are identical, but I really don't know.

For standard definition, which is still a great option, as HD is still new and expensive:
1) Panasonic AG-DVX100B $2,500
2) Canon XL2 $3,000
3) Sony DSR-PD170 $2,500

I really can't decide whether I like the DVX100B or the XL2 better. I'm leaning towads the DVX100B as a better overall camera (and its very user friendly), but then again, the XL2 has interchangeable lenses. Both can record in 24p, which is a great option. The PD170 is a total low-light wonder, is easy to use, but does not have a 24p mode.

If this is still not what you had in mind for a budget, here are some decent consumer HD cameras:
1) Sony HDR-HC3 and HDR-HC9
2) Canon HV20 and HV30

both are HDV. I highly recommend it. I can't stand mini DVD or flash media. HDV is also considerably better than Hard Disk camera; they don't compress your footage quite as much.


Hope that helps, and I apologize if that's still not what you had in mind. Well good luck, and have fun!!!

Original Question

I'm looking for a cheap professional camcorder Any ideas?

Q. I'm lookin at getting the Sony Hdr-FX1.I've heard alot of good reviews about it.Does anyone have any other advice or any other suggestions.
Well I'm actually looking for something smaller more as of hand held. Like the Sony Hvr-fx1 or the canon xl2

A. I would second the answer about the JVC GYHD110..or Gy-HD111e that we have in Europe. Not only will you shoot good quailty HD but it also shoots some of the best SD DV I've ever seen. I have two of them here as well as Canon Xl1s and XL2. However, the bang for buck goes to JVC. There's a much longer learning curve to the JVC for the novice over the Canon but it's worth it. The JVC certainly is a better buy than the Sony and I tested both of them extensively before committing to the JVC. HD will always be a problem with low light on any HD cam. The thing about the JVC because it shoots in 720p 25 (EU) is that you'll need to use it like a film camera with your speed of pans etc. There's also the old question of cool too..which is not a consideration in my case. If you put the Sony and JVC on the street, people will be more likely to get out of your shot with the JVC as it's bigger and looks more professional. However if you're going in to film in anywhere that's sensitive to publicity with the JVC you're more likely to be asked for a press pass. Whereas with the Sony you could claim it's a hobby camera maybe. If you do learn to drive the JVC it will stand you in good stead if you end up in the higher end of broadcast cameras later.
I hope this helps
Best of luck

Original Question

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

I'm looking for a cheap professional camcorder Any ideas?

Q. I'm lookin at getting the Sony Hdr-FX1.I've heard alot of good reviews about it.Does anyone have any other advice or any other suggestions.
Well I'm actually looking for something smaller more as of hand held. Like the Sony Hvr-fx1 or the canon xl2

A. I would second the answer about the JVC GYHD110..or Gy-HD111e that we have in Europe. Not only will you shoot good quailty HD but it also shoots some of the best SD DV I've ever seen. I have two of them here as well as Canon Xl1s and XL2. However, the bang for buck goes to JVC. There's a much longer learning curve to the JVC for the novice over the Canon but it's worth it. The JVC certainly is a better buy than the Sony and I tested both of them extensively before committing to the JVC. HD will always be a problem with low light on any HD cam. The thing about the JVC because it shoots in 720p 25 (EU) is that you'll need to use it like a film camera with your speed of pans etc. There's also the old question of cool too..which is not a consideration in my case. If you put the Sony and JVC on the street, people will be more likely to get out of your shot with the JVC as it's bigger and looks more professional. However if you're going in to film in anywhere that's sensitive to publicity with the JVC you're more likely to be asked for a press pass. Whereas with the Sony you could claim it's a hobby camera maybe. If you do learn to drive the JVC it will stand you in good stead if you end up in the higher end of broadcast cameras later.
I hope this helps
Best of luck

Original Question

What is the best version of the flip camcorders?

Q. These things: http://www.theflip.com/en-us/, there are like 4 different versions.
I want a camera that can take still photos, and take videos that are at least 1 hr long.
I also want it to be good quality, and I don't want it to be any more than $150.
Which one of them would be best for me?

A. Skip the Slide, unless it's on sale for unbelievably cheaper than the other models. Unless you expect to be away from a computer for a very long time (to offload and make space,) or absolutely must review on a 3" screen instead of 2", the 2 hour capacity of the others are plenty.

The Ultra and Mino I assume shoot comparable video, so the main advantage of the Ultra is the replaceable battery and mechanical buttons if you plan to get the underwater housing. The Mino has touch buttons which can be a little difficult to use, (but the record button is a mechanical one,) and is very compact

Note however, because of a filesystem limitation in the Flips, you won't be able to record more than an hour at a stretch. So while 8GB Flips claim a 2 hour capacity, you can't shoot a single 2 hour long video. (At best, you can shoot two 1 hour videos, or a whole bunch of videos that adds up to 2 hours.)

None of the Flips shoot still photos, only 720p video. In theory you could take still frames from your video, but it will likely be blurry, and less than one megapixel in resolution. (2MP is the recommended minimum for printing 4x6 photos.) Look into the other pocket point-and-shoot cameras on the market if you want still photo capability. Though even then, some of those don't have optical zoom or flash units.

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