pana af-100 vs. sony-f3

[Kenny_G]

What is the use to compare the F3 with the AF100. We all know now that the F3 performs better than the AF100 in the area of DoF, 10 bit output SDI, better low-light handling and better menu structure. On the other hand it is 3 times the price of the AF100 and the "better differences" are not that big. The F3 is IMO perhaps overall 10% better than the AF100. Imagine buying three AF100s for the prize of one F3.

 

[maxusa]

The F3 is IMO perhaps overall 10% better than the AF100.

The Great Camera Shootout 2011 just released Episode One, where the F3 showed visibly greater performance in dynamic range, under-, and over-exposure relative to the AF100. These are extremes in mostly unrealistic conditions designed to push equipment to their limits. So the F3 is +1 stop (11.2 vs. 10.2) better in latitude, -1.1 stop in under-exposed end (-7~+4.3 vs. -5.9~4.3) better latitude. There are more tests to come in July and August, but the trend would probably remain that the F3 is better in low-light and slightly in resolution under extreme conditions. To overlay reality, consider variables such as camera skill, lighting, glass, encoding/bitrate, sound, post, cast, script, and direction. The big picture. So a particular camcorder/sensor superiority ends up contributing marginally, perhaps, a fraction of a percent towards a great or lousy production.

Then there are perspectives driven by roles. To me as a Cameraman, things like ergonomics, handling, runtime, reliability, versatility, features might be more important. Is it a one-person crew or a team? ENG, documentary, corporate, studio, on location, feature? As a DP, I probably want to better understand equipment character to develop the best approach for unleashing its full potential (avoid low performance conditions and promote advantages). As a Producer, I want to maximize the chances of success and control costs. As a typical Customer, I cannot care less about the sensor as long as the final result looks and feels quality.

In the end, the best sensor choice really depends on many factors and may have different meaning to different people. Go with the unit that makes more sense in your situation.

 

[D10S]

What is the use to compare the F3 with the AF100. We all know now that the F3 performs better than the AF100 in the area of DoF, 10 bit output SDI, better low-light handling and better menu structure. On the other hand it is 3 times the price of the AF100 and the "better differences" are not that big. The F3 is IMO perhaps overall 10% better than the AF100. Imagine buying three AF100s for the prize of one F3.

But having THREE AF100's won't get you a better picture. I own BOTH camera's. And I LOVE both. The AF100 is easier to hand hold, gives me a great picture, and is great for my lower end productions. The F3 I use for my high end stuff. I can't wait to get the PIX 240 to record at 4:2:2. Side by side both camera's have a great image, but I give the nod to the F3 as the better in both low light and high light conditions. I'd recommend either depending on your budget.

 

[TimTheFoolMan]

The Great Camera Shootout 2011 just released Episode One, where the F3 showed visibly greater performance in dynamic range, under-, and over-exposure relative to the AF100. These are extremes in mostly unrealistic conditions designed to push equipment to their limits. So the F3 is +1 stop (11.2 vs. 10.2) better in latitude, -1.1 stop in under-exposed end (-7~+4.3 vs. -5.9~4.3) better latitude. There are more tests to come in July and August, but the trend would probably remain that the F3 is better in low-light and slightly in resolution under extreme conditions. To overlay reality, consider variables such as camera skill, lighting, glass, encoding/bitrate, sound, post, cast, script, and direction. The big picture. So a particular camcorder/sensor superiority ends up contributing marginally, perhaps, a fraction of a percent towards a great or lousy production.

Then there are perspectives driven by roles. To me as a Cameraman, things like ergonomics, handling, runtime, reliability, versatility, features might be more important. Is it a one-person crew or a team? ENG, documentary, corporate, studio, on location, feature? As a DP, I probably want to better understand equipment character to develop the best approach for unleashing its full potential (avoid low performance conditions and promote advantages). As a Producer, I want to maximize the chances of success and control costs. As a typical Customer, I cannot care less about the sensor as long as the final result looks and feels quality.

In the end, the best sensor choice really depends on many factors and may have different meaning to different people. Go with the unit that makes more sense in your situation.

+ 1,000