Panasonic GH1 Codec??

rundavids

rundavids

Well-known member
Hi, I've been asking a lot of questions on this forum about the Panasonic GH1 and the Canon 7D and trying to choose between the two like many other people. I have to ask, is the codec on the GH1 really that bad?

I want to shoot a feature film and would like to have it shown onto a theater-sized screening and wondering how bad it really would be. I've seen some awesome clips Vimeo, but can't really go by it. For those who have this camera, could you give me some insight. Thank you.
 
Having shot with both, if you're talking strictly codec performance, I give the nod to Canon.

On the GH1, in 1080p, most of my footage looked very, very nice, but there were some shots with visible codec breakdown. In 720p, I've never lost a single shot from the GH1 due to the codec.

On the 7D, in both modes, I've never lost a shot due to any blocking or color breakdown from the codec.

Other people's mileage can (and will) vary.
 
"Is the GH1's codec really that bad?"

What a funny question!

No, the GH1's codec implementation, taken together with all it's many other features, is freaking awesome for less than $1,250 US including a sharp zoom lens, battery, AC adpter/charger, US warranty, etc., brand new in a sealed box, including free shipping!
http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=192602

If you're seriously considering spending only $1,250 US on your camera system to shoot your film, and really, really, really can't afford to spend any more, then the relative quality of the camera's codec is far, far the _least_ of your concerns. If this is truly your "must-own-not-rent" camera budget, then get a GH1, be happy, fire-up your word-processor and put 90% of your effort into a totally kick-*ss script _and_ good audio/sound/music.

Alternatively, give up on narrow DOF shots and stealth shooting and instead buy any decent entry-level prosumer camcorder and enjoy it's superior codec & audio capabilities.

Either way, you'll need a good script or $100M if you ever hope to get your film on lots of big screens.
 
I have the script and friends to play the roles. But I'm deciding on what to shoot in. I live in Las Vegas and it's very expensive to rent some equipment out here and hard to find places to rent.
 
Personaly I think the GH1 has a more filmic picture than either of the canons - buy one you won't regret it.
 
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