The Best Camera for the Job

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DP StrangeLove

Well-known member
I am going to be going to Brazil this summer to produce a Feature Documentary and I have been trying to figure out and weigh my options on what would be the best camera to use.
I want to shoot in HD or HDV. I currently own the Panasonic HVX 200, but have ruled it out due to workflow issues, we don't want to have to bring down array's of hard drives and laptops to continually transfer the footage.
My main concern is portbality vs. image quality. I am currently debating between two cameras, the JVC HD100 or renting the Varicam. But I am open to other camera suggestions. I want the portability of a smaller camera, for quick interview set-ups, jib shots, steady-rig, but don't want to suffer any loss of image, (in other words having near-quality of the varicam)
Even though the JVC has 1/3" chip set compared to the 2/3" chipset of Varicam
can hold its own to the Varicam? I will be renting the wide-angle lens with the JVC, as I hear the stock lens is not up to par.
I will be doing a film-out and don't want the camera image quality to be an issue. How much better is the Varicam footage? What would be the best camera option overall? How much easier to set-up and run and gun is the JVC compared to the larger 2/3"inch cameras?
If budget allows for rental of a Varicaml, should that just be the best camera to go with.
Any advice, especially from experienced DPs would be of tremendous help!
 
Seems like the JVC HD100 would be the best and cheapest option since it sounds like you want something lighter than a Varicam. You do realize though that the HVX200 now has a firestore out which may make life easier.
 
Since you are even contemplating Varicam it seems there is some crew involved so maybe the workflow of HVX200 isn't so bad...? Had similar dilema on 2 previous projects 1. was a was moving hand-held feature where we went with Varicam another is a mocumnetary hwre we are going with HVX200. THe difference in image IS significant (not so when viewed on small screen, but so when seen so something bigger). I'm not sure how involved you usually are in the post because it's here where the real image quality (and quality of teh compressor) shines or shows its weaknesses.
 
Where will you go in Brazil. Do you need support from local companies, or are you bringing all the stuff from home?

Varicams are not as easy to find over here, and are expensive to rent. Besides many rental companies will have to send an engeneer along, who are usually pretty competent and knowledgeable people, but also one more on your crew (that you want to keep small).

I haven't heard of a single JVC HD100 around here. I'm not sure if people are using it, or renting it.

Anyway depending on the region you're going to, the support will vary.
 
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