Out of these cameras, which will produce the best film like image?

[DavidG]

Hi guys,

im shooting a feature in May time, and im looking into what camera to use. Currently my options are the following.

Either, rent the:

Sony HDW 750P or
Sony HDW-F900R

Out of these two, which do you think will produce the best image, I am aiming for theatrical release quality but want to work with digital as I prefer the work flow.

If you could shine any light or info I would very much appreciate it.

Thank you.

[Mattykins]

F900R, no question at all.

Though spending that kinda money - I would look into the bigger brother of cinealta. The F23 will give you more dynamic range - and thus more latitude. The F23 is very close to the capabilities of film. If not mistaken the 23 puts down 12 stops of latitude while film puts out at 14.

[Noel Evans]

If you are going to shoot video, have you considered RED at all?

[DavidG]

I havnt really looked into Red that much, but from what Ive seen now it looks as if it would work out cheaper than the F900R. With better results to be honest.

[dadoboy]

I'm not sure what the rates are like where you are.
Here in LA the F23 rental rate is much higher than a F900R which are plentiful.
It's the top of the line Sony so it comes at a premium.
RED cameras are more expensive as a day rate - primarily because with a set of super speed primes which you would want, the rate goes up by 300-400/day.
If you're looking for bang for buck I would go with the 900R. It's tried and true, has an established post prod work flow, and the form factor versus the original F900 plus the inclusion of HD SDI makes for a winning low budget combo.
Lens choice is everything, I prefer the Fujinon Super Cine series - don't remember the specific model numbers off hand at 4am.

[Robert Ruffo]

Why would you EVER shoot fiction on a 2/3rds cam? S35 Red cams, with the new upgraded sensor give you as much or more latitude than an F23 or F900, have a much larger sensor, much higher resolution, and cost way less. You can use Canon lenses with a Birger mount, and really be flying.

The only good reason to use an F900 is that you can couple it with a good quality, reasonably priced powered zoom with a large range- great for docs and ENG, but not at relevant in a modern fiction feature.

Community is hot on an F900, and I'm not completely sure, but pretty sure that so is Modern Family. To me they just look like nice-ish HDTV, not at all like a feature, and certainly not "filmic".