AC90: using AC90 on a high profile paid gig - the result

[vorrik]

Just wanted to make a quick post for those on the fence about purchasing the AC90 because you aren't sure if the camera is capable of producing "pro" quality audio/video. Sure, looking at sample video online of someone screwing around and testing is one thing - using the camera on a high profile paid gig is another.

While I cant show you the video or still frames per my contract, I used an AC90 this morning to film a well known celebrity sports figure during an interview. I am under contract to film this person weekly during the sports season (this is my 3rd season). I have been using a GH3 all year this year and used a GH2 last year for the job. For several reasons, I am moving away from DSLRs and back into 3 chip camcorders. I don't care about shallow DoF anymore, i just want clean audio and video to give to my clients. Decided to give the AC90 a shot before moving up to a more expensive model.

The result: The shoot went great. The image quality (color, focus, exposure) and ease of operation (the ability to change/adjust nearly all parameters while filming) outperformed my GH3. The audio, a Sennheiser G3 wireless receiver run straight into the camera, sounded punchy and clean. Both audio and video were perfect when viewed on my editing machine afterward.

Any doubts I had of using this camera on serious shoots in the future melted away. Sure, like any camera, it has its minor quirks or annoyances. But the thing I care about more than anything else from a camera is getting high quality video and audio - this camera delivers. Having a light weight, compact pro capable camcorder is great - Ill be purchasing another AC90 in a couple weeks.

 

[Michael Carter]

For one-man gigs, it's hard to beat a 'real' video camera vs. a DSLR. For me, it's primarily about good audio - XLRs ins, 2 channels for level safety, decent converters, footage all synched up for editing.

The AC series delivers a really nice image and between the image controls and operator skills with lighting and modifiers, you can get shots we would have killed for a few years back.

I'd consider a 130 or 160 when you buy another cam, but of course the added features may be unnecessary for your work. (I have the 130 and in hindsight wish I'd gotten the 160 for 60 fps 1080p - I have nothing that will do slowmo at 1080, and even the BMCs don't go there).

But hey, keep a GH setup. VERY cool to be able to do 2 cameras for dialogue edits. I'll use 2 tripods, use the manfrotto remote on the AC130 with an HDMI monitor, and do tighter closeup, hand gestures, etc. with the DSLR. gotta chop out an "umm" or a stutter? Gives you a nice cutaway.