I'm having a hard time deciding between some cameras.
I started learning video on camcorders like the Canon GL2 and older Panasonic DV cameras. With the advent of DSLR I purchased a Canon Rebel T2i and worked with the 7D as well on a full length shoot, and 5D cameras for events. Now that I have a full time job in video production, I got reacquainted with camcorders or cameras with the functionality that camcorders have i.e. onboard buttons, proper xlr audio, zebras, waveforms etc. and I fell back in love. I use a C100 and Canon Vixia G30 at work and while I love those cameras, I want something for my freelance stuff on the side (sports, events, documentary, etc.) and something that is run and gun friendly. Right now I'm between these cameras:
Canon XA20 - I enjoy working with the G30 but I want one for my own and with the proper XLR inputs. Plus if I needed to, I could take it to work and match it with my other cameras. The small form factor is sort of attractive as well, but it may or may not be attractive with clients so I'm taking that into consideration.
JVC HM170UA - This one is sort of a mixed bag. I hear it feels cheap and the viewfinder isn't that great. Most of the footage that I have seen doesn't seem too steady and the specs don't indicate any special image stabilization, though I'm sure it is there. Again, a mixed bag...BUT 4K. And it has proper audio and they throw in the shotgun mic.
Panasonic AG AC30 - I dug the AG AC90 ok with the short time I spent with it but I could have put it through its paces more. This one supposedly has better lowlight capabilities and the short slow mo stuff I've seen looks decent for action sports. Plus I'm sure its a good documentary cam.
Anyway...these are my picks right now. If anyone has any suggestions let me know. Thanks!!!!
I started learning video on camcorders like the Canon GL2 and older Panasonic DV cameras. With the advent of DSLR I purchased a Canon Rebel T2i and worked with the 7D as well on a full length shoot, and 5D cameras for events. Now that I have a full time job in video production, I got reacquainted with camcorders or cameras with the functionality that camcorders have i.e. onboard buttons, proper xlr audio, zebras, waveforms etc. and I fell back in love. I use a C100 and Canon Vixia G30 at work and while I love those cameras, I want something for my freelance stuff on the side (sports, events, documentary, etc.) and something that is run and gun friendly. Right now I'm between these cameras:
Canon XA20 - I enjoy working with the G30 but I want one for my own and with the proper XLR inputs. Plus if I needed to, I could take it to work and match it with my other cameras. The small form factor is sort of attractive as well, but it may or may not be attractive with clients so I'm taking that into consideration.
JVC HM170UA - This one is sort of a mixed bag. I hear it feels cheap and the viewfinder isn't that great. Most of the footage that I have seen doesn't seem too steady and the specs don't indicate any special image stabilization, though I'm sure it is there. Again, a mixed bag...BUT 4K. And it has proper audio and they throw in the shotgun mic.
Panasonic AG AC30 - I dug the AG AC90 ok with the short time I spent with it but I could have put it through its paces more. This one supposedly has better lowlight capabilities and the short slow mo stuff I've seen looks decent for action sports. Plus I'm sure its a good documentary cam.
Anyway...these are my picks right now. If anyone has any suggestions let me know. Thanks!!!!
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