The most "filmlike" equipment package

proximity

proximity

Well-known member
Hey guys,
I would like to discuss what solution which gives the most "filmlike" content.


True 24p, or convert to "true" 24p
What camera is more versitile, Example: The JVC HD100 shoots true 24p progressive, both PAL and NTSC. HVX-200 only does this in the NTSC model, what about PAL users? (To me, this as a PAL user, it seemes like a way smarter move to but the HD100 insted of the HVX-200. - Cant really say that Panasonic made this a indie filmcamera for the European marked)

-- When shooting with the PAL HVX-200, or any Sony camera, a conversion is needed (25p to 24p). Are there easy algorytms to prosess this in a competitive quality?

-- I would guess that the HVX-200 is a more versatile camera because of it's framerates. - But most of us don't really need all of them. Which are essential?


Depth of feild and objectives
Obejctives is a big deal. Canon and JVC has swapable lenses. Is this a true advandtage when the price is so high. Or are we all saving up for M2, G35 and Letus 35mm adapters? Are any of these cameras any better with the 35 mm adapter solutions?


Filters / matteboxes
Is filters really nessecary? Most of this is easily done in post. Matteboxes just look cool :) How much would you pay to impress the actors, making them want to perform better?


Lighting
Does it matter if I buy lights from DVgear or from home depot?


Practical uses
HDV droppouts, colorspace,


I would REALLY like to hear your thoughts, on how to get a proffesional looking content with less money. - Proximity
 
I've had the HVX for almost 2 weeks now. Here's my .02.

This camera does true 24p and I think looks a hell of a lot better than the JVC, IMO.

Why is 24p over 25p such a big deal? Aren't european films projected at 25fps? and a corresponding 50 fields for TV? I also know that a lot of American digital projects have been done on PAL cameras for the increased resolution.. and I've edited some PAL and NTSC footage on the same timeline. Takes a bit of work, but it's possible.

All of the variable frame rates are essential! I almost wish that there were a few more. I'd like to see 6fps and something in between the 36-48 and the 48-60 range.
If you are used to shooting film.. this is such an amazing asset. It's an incredible option for action sports and narrative films. This is also closer in functionality to film cameras...while still allowing for a videocam operation... I also simply love the timelapse option.

Lenses are so expensive and I doubt if most people will even take advantage of that option for either of the Canon or JVC cameras. I know that with my XL1 I never used another lense... Cost is something to really consider and I do think that adapters and the 35mm adapters are incredible for really narrow DOF. I saw the mini 35 on the HVX and it was simply amazing.

Matteboxes off a lot of light control options and will deliver a more desirable look for bright exteriors and for more filmlike image quality.


Don't spend all this money and then get lights from Home Depot. That sends the wrong message to clients. For your own stuff and speciality stuff they are great. Good to light up a wide area.. but they get very hot, and light control is much more difficult. You can get a small portable light kit for not too much case. Lugging around those work lights is a nightmare...

I never want to shoot tape again... I've been so impressed with everything with this camera. There's a buzz about it. I'm getting work from people who want to check it out before buying.. and from people who would normally consider using a varicam.

Go all the way and get something revolutionary. The other cams seem to do it halfway and aren't nearly as flexible.... Also when people talk about run times.. I'd like to see someone shoot for 5 or 10 or 20 hours straight as is possible with this camera. Sure it requires some swapping or firewire streaming but it's possible. Ntohign worse than switching tapes and missing the action...


Ya also don't want to be on the outside of the revolution.
 
Proxi... thanks for the appreciation. Hope it helps. I'm gonna drink a few pints of Guiness tonight.


For the most filmlike camera... this is the one. Now, if you were shooting tons and tons and tons and tons of video then maybe something else would be a good choice until either the firestore or the P2cards get larger and cheaper....

Like I have a shoot in June that I'll be shooting DV with the camera because It's a 5 day conference where I shoot about 6-8 tapes a day.. and it gets compressed for CD and the web. HD just isn't needed and or/called for by the client.

Other than that it's hdbaby all the way.
 
Ash says:
Click to expand...

This is probably not the place to get the most objective view but in truth, these cameras are all so close you really need to choose the one that is best suited to your preference, needs and budget. Also, 24P versus 25P just doesnt matter, if you ever get lucky enough to get a film out, 25P is an EASY transfer.

I messed with a JVC when it first came out and was not impressed but the newest firmware revisions (done for FREE, are you listening Panasonic?) address pretty much every issue and the footage looks fabulous.

Tapeless P2 workflow is great for some, a nightmare for others. There are some affordable work arounds but in general it is expensive and archiving is still an issue for those who need it.

Interchangeable lenses are fabulous, that being said, I venture to guess that 75%+ of Canon XL series owners have never had anything but stock glass on the body. Depth of field will be similar on all 1/3" CCD cameras with the XLH having the most shallow due only to the 20X lense, at equal lengths, the DOF will be equal in most cases.

As to your bigger question, what gives the most film-like look, the answer is none of the above. That depends on framing, camera moves, lighting, etc. the camera once you get to this level is the last piece of the puzzle.


ash =o)
 
Let me clarify... if you want a more objective view of different cameras, poke your head around in the other forums on this site. You just asked Ford/Chevy in the Chevy forum =o)



ash =o)
 
That's true... the camera here is more similar to a mercedes.. so check out the fords and Chevy's on other sites!
 
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