is it the end of HVX/DVXuser as we know it

[Christian m]

so... which is better? The HVX or DSLR cameras? Best image quality?

What's best is what's right for the specific job, no camera can be "best" in all types of shooting. A hvx200 will be a better workhorse for news, sports and what's maybe defined as more "tv" style of shooting. A Af100 will be better for productions where a more filmic DOF is preferred, and it will probably offer a bit sharper image than the pixel shifted hvx/hpx.

I do find it a bit interesting that Panasonic offer the AF100 with avchd recording on SD cards, and not in P2 with better codecs. Does this mean they might have something more high end in the making, a Avc-ultra camcorder to tackle Sony SRW9000 some time in the future?

 

[Nick Walters]

Been awhile since I posted, and I had to jump in for this...

Camera doesn't matter.

Stop fussing over cameras and buy LIGHTS.

Learn to use those lights.

Perfect how you use those lights.

Other then this I cocentrate on buying gear that will outlive even me, much less my camera....Steadicam, Audio, Tripod, Shoulder mount, good glass, jibs, dollies, stands, etc. etc. etc. etc.....

I still have my same original HVX-200 and I keep making better and better images with it every time I turn it on.

This said I am about to buy a GH-1, but I'm not stressing, over comparing, or generally freaking out about it...I just like the idea of it for some shoots....the right tool for the right job.

 

[Barry_Green]

Actually Barry I do have one question which you may be able to answer.....

Could I use the GH1 for close ups and the HVX for other shots where I may not need the DOF and cut the footage together without the audience noticing it was shot on two different cameras?

Depends on your skills in post. The GH1 isn't necessarily tuned for the same color response as the broadcast division... back when the broadcast division adapted the older SD100 consumer camera and turned it into the HSC1 (I think I have the numbers/names right?) they specifically tuned the color response to give it the same color as the broadcast cameras, so that they could be intercut better. That hasn't happened with the GH1, it's straight out of the consumer division.

With some effort in post though, you might be able to get them to match.

GH1 footage has a different texture, the HVX has a more gritty/organic texture and the GH1 has a smoother/cleaner texture, so you might have to "rough up" your closeups to get them to match.

Because if I could, the GH1 is a cheaper option then buying a 35mm adapter on say a HVX and you get the bonus of having a really nice DSLR still camera.

Yep, and it makes a pretty decent consumer/home video/vacation video camera too. The GH1 is great to have in the kit, especially if it's a GH13 with the tester13 modifications! And it'll be the ideal b-camera to an AF100.

 

[Barry_Green]

I do find it a bit interesting that Panasonic offer the AF100 with avchd recording on SD cards, and not in P2 with better codecs. Does this mean they might have something more high end in the making, a Avc-ultra camcorder to tackle Sony SRW9000 some time in the future?

I think many of us are hoping so!

 

[FREUDENBERG_FILMS]

so... which is better? The HVX or DSLR cameras? Best image quality? It just sucks that I bought the HVX200a for 6k & now the price is way lower... but i understand the value goes down on things but I guess I bought mine at the latest point possible before the price drop. *SMH*

Yeah I would not be happy if the price dropped after I bought my camera. But mine cost me $8k AUD (about $7k USD at the time)..... I bought a couple of years back but with these forums and the support I got.... As well as meeting Barry Green when he camera to Australia really sold me on the HVX202EN.

I am not going to get rid of the HVX but am looking into a DSLR to complement it now.

 

[FREUDENBERG_FILMS]

Thanks Barry

I need a nice still camera anyhow so I might look at the GH1 if not the Canon 7D.

Actually they had a really good write up in last months HDVideoPro magazine on the DSLR in movie making. You may still find in on the shelves if you don't have it already.

 

[seadogjp]

i love my hpx