really I'm still debating

[Debonaire]

Okay I want all my videos to look professional.

I'm still comfused on what camera I should get really.

Should i get the panasonic dvx 100a

of the canon xl1s.

why I'm kinda iffy about the canon xl1s is because it has no lcd screen and to me it seems like you want be able to film propely. if somebody can help me out I would appreciate it

And which on is better and why?

also which one is better the panasonic dvx100b or the canon xl2 and let me know why please.

[saturnin]

well this ia dvxforum after all

im' happy wtih dVX100a had it since it came out, finishing of my 2nd doc. Depends what u want it for, both are good cameras. Each has a diff look, best would be for you to go rent them both and do test footage and see what u llike better.

[Blaine]

There are so many things involved in making professional looking video...lighting, framing, sound, acting. It's a whole package. But the DVX100A or B is certainly a good first step. The thing to remember, though, is it isn't just the camera. What's behind and in front of the camera is much more important.

[LilGryphMaster]

I made a film on the XL-2, and I was pleased with it's performance. However, I prefer the DVX because the color and gamma lattitude looks much more lik film than the Canon. The Canon has good color, don't get me wrong, but it just screams video to me. Exspecially the 1s. Go for the DVX, it shoots in 24p and widescreen, and it's easiest to get to look like film than the canon, IMO.

[Debonaire]

okay the settle it then I'm going with the panasonic dvx100a if I can find it for under 1850, I guess I just save up and get the b.

[Jon Neely]

Or how about an HV20 with a brevis??? lol
that might be getting ahed of yourself.
Jon

[saturnin]

i will never shoot with HV20, i used it on a shoot once.. the lack of controls and the size did not work for me. Its a gimmic camera for family videos in my opinion.

[Barry_Green]

Working with the HV20 is like living in a camper or a studio apartment. You know, most everything you need is there (there's a sofa that folds out to a bed, there's a mini fridge that'll hold a gallon of milk, there's a shower that's also a toilet, etc) but actually living there for any length of time? Tedious. Annoying. The bed's mattress is about 2" thick and made mostly of springs, etc.

A camper or a studio apartment might make a great crash pad for a weekend, but living there year round would drive you mad. The HV20 does have most of the tools you need (zebras, focus assist, a mic input jack) but living with it year round? No thanks. Use it for what it is: a consumer handycam. Trying to do a professional shoot with one would be like trying to live in a studio apartment.

[Debonaire]

okay I'm getting the panasonic dvx100a I'm going to have to wait til feb so i can afford it hopefully I'll get a good deal by then. What do ya'll think.

[AlNerd]

good choice Debonaire. i have a dvx100b and the images are gorgeous. but dont forget to factor in other equipment as well, such a a good tripod, mic etc.. it all adds up. Also if you're new to DVX100 and general photography practice, i would recommend, though a little on the expensive side, Barry Greens DVX Book and DVD. The info in the Booklet is, IMO, invaluable in achieving the best out of the DVX. Another thing that attracted me was the movies that have been shot, best examples are November, Iraq in Fragment and Land of Plenty. As far as MiniDV SD goes, you cant buy a better camera. HD!! you have more choice.. good luck in what ever you choose...... peace

[timbook2]

correct choice ! useless to go HD and 16:9 unless you work for tv stations or other companies that require it.
learn how to make a good film with the dvx100 and then see where it brings you :-)

[Jon Neely]

My post was more humor than anything else guys, I love and cherish my DVX... but I still think the HV20 is worth a try...

Jon