Feedback on Panasonic HVX200A

J

JPUSC

Active member
Hey all.

I'm about to purchase a Panasonic HVX200A, but have a few questions.

I've been using a Canon XL1-S for years but think it's time to upgrade to HD...but is there a big difference in the image look and quality besides the larger frame size? I had used a Canon XL H1 on a shoot once and it more or less resembled footage from my Canon XL1-S except the frame size was larger. Is the Panasonic any different? I am going for a cinematic look.

Also, I noticed a few terms on the forum such as "scene files" or "Barry Green Scene files" and gamma settings. Is this like an in-camera film look processor, like Magic Bullet? On a side note, I currently use the SD version of Magic Bullet. Since the Panasonic seems to have similar presets, would I still need Magic Bullet?

Finally, do most people use a 35mm adapter to obtain a cinematic look with this camera or can you accomplish the same without the adapter? I've been able to get such a look with my Canon using a shallow depth of field.

Thanks!
 
I think the best answers are yes. Upgrade, get an HVX, a M2 and some glass, its awsome.

The HVX is going to be better than the cannon, especially if you output to SD. HD is a given. You can always zoom in to get shallow depth of feild, but putting 35mm lenses on an adapter just gives it that thing (which can be explained many different ways).

Scence files are in camera settings that effect variables in your recorded image. Dosent really take the place of post software like magic bullet, although it technically could but would be hard to do consistantly shot to shot.

I have both the HVX 200a and the M2 and I can tell you there is a difference between my XH-A1 with M2 and the HVX and M2. The better being the latter. So definatly between the XL1 and the HVX.
 
Thanks a lot Jimmy!

Can you describe that certain look a 35mm lense on an adapter can give vs. to just shooting with a zoom in?
 
Get a Letus if you get a 35MM adapter, or a SGPro. I've heard of some pretty bad experiences with the M2, and the letus flips your image for you.
 
HVX200A =

DVCPro HD 100 codec (super in post and chroma key)
Intraframe compression (not GOP)
True 24 pA
Variable frame rate (Under and overcrank!)
Image control (Adjustable in subtle variations)
P2 work flow (!!!)
Support in almost any Edit and post software.


Enough for me... now!
 
Yes.. if you buy the Redrock flip thing. That adapter looses too much light though and is a pain to set-up. It may have been one of the first on the block, but it's not one of the best IMHO. That Letus looks to be the top Dawg now.
 
Also prepare to lose quite some light sensitivity with the HVX, and another stop with the 35mm adaptor...

That's the downside of 1/3" HD camcorders. They just need so much light...
 
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