First time user; not really satisfied yet

vincex86

New member
So I got my AG-AF101e a week ago and did some testing.
Viewing my test shots in a low light setting, I'm not really satisfied.

Theres still a lot of noise while I'm using an f1.8 50mm lens, iso 200,
iris wide open & shutterspeed at 1/25. Is there anything more I can do? I'm already using
the 'Clean' scene file from Abelcine (http://blog.abelcine.com/2011/04/06/af100-scene-files-created-by-abelcine/).

Also the colors in the blurry area's are pretty limited. You get the same
style rings when you set photoshop to websafe colors (ofcourse this is an exagerated comparison).

Is this abnormal or normal (and a reason to put up extra lights)?

I've uploaded a screenshot marking the problems, the zip also includes
the .mts straight from the camera: http://www.glasbak.tv/downloads/af101.zip

Kind regards & thanks in advance!
 
So, my first two questions regarding noise is 1) Have you tried black-balancing the camera yet, and 2) what are you viewing the video on? Computer monitor? HD TV?
 
additionally, it takes awhile to get the AF100 dialed in - to find settings you like, figure out it's strengths and weaknesses, and find where it excels. it took me awhile to get get used to it, but i have to admit, i love it now. I still prefer the image it produces vs my hacked gh2. using the two for different purposes has gotten me to a very comfortable place
 
That whole compression bit settles my nerves quite a bit ;)

The camera indeeds takes some time dialing in. I'm used to working with a JVC HM700, which was a lot easier to operate. Smaller 2/3 sensor and a very capable multipurpose zoomlens. The AG-AF100 gives a much better image, but it's a lot more work to get at it.

My main annoyance with the camera right now is the focusing. The focus assist on this camera is pretty much the worst I've worked with. The JVC has the same function but gives a much more detailed assist. With the AG-AF100 there still a lot of stuff in the shot that's marked red, but which is actually just a bit out of focus. I still love the way the 5DMKII focusses with the digital zoom in.
 
That whole compression bit settles my nerves quite a bit ;)

The camera indeeds takes some time dialing in. I'm used to working with a JVC HM700, which was a lot easier to operate. Smaller 2/3 sensor and a very capable multipurpose zoomlens. The AG-AF100 gives a much better image, but it's a lot more work to get at it.

My main annoyance with the camera right now is the focusing. The focus assist on this camera is pretty much the worst I've worked with. The JVC has the same function but gives a much more detailed assist. With the AG-AF100 there still a lot of stuff in the shot that's marked red, but which is actually just a bit out of focus. I still love the way the 5DMKII focusses with the digital zoom in.

The AF100 is a bit like dating a supermodel. It can be great and give you lovely images if you know how to use it, but if you disrupt it, it can transform into a complete nightmare.

As far as the focus assist, try opening up your lens, focus, and then step it down. It's an old photographers trick but it works well in getting tack sharp images. Again though, I don't typically rely on autofocus, would much rather dial it in myself. Not having any issues with autofocus on the 12-35 lens though...

Also, what kind lens are you using? I saw that you said you're using a 50mm, 1.8. Is that the only one?

Try a different lens out... if you like primes, try out the Nokton 0.95 25mm.
 
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My main annoyance with the camera right now is the focusing. The focus assist on this camera is pretty much the worst I've worked with. The JVC has the same function but gives a much more detailed assist. With the AG-AF100 there still a lot of stuff in the shot that's marked red, but which is actually just a bit out of focus.
Check your button settings, you must never ever ever use the red focus assist in combination with the EVF DTL, or you'll get exactly what you're talking about (too generous, showing stuff that's out of focus as "red"). You should only ever use the red OR the EVF DTL, but never the red AND the EVF DTL.

Try it without EVF DTL, especially in the viewfinder with the viewfinder set to B&W, and I think you'll like it much more.
 
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