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Video Camera Information
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flag JSoule
Posted: May 8, 2009 at 17:22 Quote
Hello everyone. I have seen a large number of "What camera should I buy?" or "Tell me about this camera" threads lately. I have put this thread together as a a kind of guide to the popular cameras in the "extreme sports" world. It's not to say these are the only cameras out there, or the only cameras you should use, but the cameras in this list are common and popular for a reason. They perform the best, or work the best with the filming accessories out there i.e. fisheyes, steadycams, mics ect.


Glossary:

CCD- Charge-coupled device. The sensor chip used most commonly in video cameras. Cameras with one CCD use one sensor to measure all colors.

3CCD- Describes cameras that use three CCD sensors. Each CCD separately measures red, green, and blue light. Cameras with 3CCDs will be able to produce superior colors when compared to cameras that use only one CCD.

CMOS- Uses the CMOS (Complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor) semiconductor process. CMOS chips do not necessarily have an advantage over a CCD chip, but rather each produces footage with their own unique characteristics. This is a great article on about the differences in CCD and CMOS footage.

SD- Standard Definition

HD- High Definition.

HDV- High Definition Video. Uses MPEG 2 format to compress HD footage on to mini DV tapes.

4:3- The standard aspect ratio for older “square” TVs.

16:9- A wide screen aspect ratio, commonly found with new HDTV’s. 16:9 footage can be achieved with a 4:3 ratio through an anamorphic adaptor or letterboxing (cropping the top of the footage).

Lux: Unit of measurement for illumination. The lower the Lux rating, the better the camera can handle lowlight filming.

i- Interlaced. Footage that uses two horizontal fields scanned separately a 60th of a second apart to create an image. There are some problems created by interlaced footage, due to the separately scanned fields, slow motion footage and video stills can reveal “artifacts” that appear as rows of lines. These lines are the two separate interlaced fields.

p- Progressive. Footage that scanned progressively side-to-side top to bottom to create an image. Because progressive footage scans all the horizontal lines in an image at once, it does not suffer from the “artifact” problems that interlaced footage does.

24p- 24 frames progressive. Allows you to obtain more film like footage with video cameras. Has some motion blur, especially when filming in a lower shutter speed i.e. 1/48 shutter speed.

30p- 30 frames progressive. Similar to 24p in film like appearance but due to the higher number of frames per second, less motion blur occurs.

60i- 60 frames Interlaced. Standard frame rate for consumer cameras.

60p- 60 frames per second progressive. Fairly uncommon in consumer/prosumer cameras, 60p allows for smooth slow motion shots through overcranking.

Capture Cam- Capture Camera. A cheap camera used to capture and upload footage to your computer after filming. This puts less wear on the cameras heads.

This is a list of commonly used cameras. This is not a complete list of video cameras, however these cameras are popular for filming bike riding and skating for a reason.


Consumer cameras



Panasonic PV-GS series. Used and new: $300-$699.99


Unsecure image, only https images allowed: http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/JustenS/Cameras/gs500.jpg
Sample Footage:


PV-GS 500: Footage from Will Evans - https://www.vimeo.com/609022
PV-GS 320: https://www.vimeo.com/403958 , https://www.vimeo.com/315857


The GS series of video cameras are perfect for the beginner filmer. They don’t offer all the advanced manual controls of higher end cameras making them more affordable, yet still offering the color processing Capability of a 3CCD camera. Small and simple to use, they can still produce decent colors. One downside to this camera is that does not handle low light filming well. There are several cameras in GS series, here are three of them, the cheapest GS 150, the mid range GS 320, and the best model and the only GS not discontinued, the GS 500.

PV-GS 320

- Mini DV
- 1/6" 3CCD Sensor
- 2.7" LCD
- 12 Lux
- 37mm filter size

PV-GS 500

- Mini DV
- 1/4.7" 3CCD Sensor
- 2.7" LCD
- 5 Lux
- 43mm filter size



Sony DCR-TRV900 (Discontinued) Used: $400-$600

Unsecure image, only https images allowed: http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/JustenS/Cameras/TRV900.jpgSony TRV900

Fairly old now, it’s harder to find but can still hold its own against other newer 3CCD cameras. The camera is fairly large and has a huge 3.5” LCD screen. The TRV has decent manual controls, allowing you to have control over your footage. Due to the age of the camera, be cautious of buying one with a lot of wear in the heads.

- Mini DV
- 1/2” 3CCD Sensor
- 3.5” LCD
- 4 Lux
- 52mm filter size


Consumer Cameras HD:


Canon HF100 New: $500-600



Unsecure image, only https images allowed: http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/JustenS/Cameras/HF100.jpgCanon HF100

With the AVCHD format becoming more popular in consumer cameras, this is Canon’s answer. This camera is tapeless and records to a class 4 or 6 SDHC card, which can be found in almost any electronics store. It is capable of producing crisp footage and nice colors in well lit situations. However like many other small cameras with one smaller sensor it tends to be little light hungry. This means in darker, low light situations the cameras footage can get a little noisy and grainy. The low light handling aside, the HF100 is great for someone wanting a smaller camera that can produce a nice image, and also wants to be free of working with tape.

- AVCHD (Records to class 4 or 6 SDHC cards)
- 1/3.2” CMOS Sensor
- 2.7” LCD
- 6 Lux
- 37mm filter size



Canon HV20/30/40 New: $500-$1000

Unsecure image, only https images allowed: http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/JustenS/Cameras/custom_1231171179454_20090105_hiRes.jpgCanon HV40

HV20 Sample Footage: Footage from Will Evans - https://www.vimeo.com/617641
HV20 24p Sample Footage: https://www.vimeo.com/617545


The HV line of cameras are gaining more respect among the budget indie film maker group as a camera that used correctly, can produce an amazing image. There is HV30 footage that rivals cameras in the $3000-$5000 price range. Each camera in the line was replaced with a newer model offering more features. The HV10 can only film in the 60i frame rate, while the HV20 offered the option to film in 24p, as well as 60i in either 4:3 or 16:9 aspect ratios. The HV30 took the already solid HV20 and added the ability to film in 30p. The newest version, the HV40, adds the 24pA (advanced pulldown) frame rate to HV line. If you are looking into buying an HD camcorder but aren’t ready to spend $3000+ then definitely look into the HV cameras.


HV20/30/40

- HDV
- 1080i/60i, 24p (30p with HV30, 30p and 24pA with the HV40)
- 4:3 or 16:9
- 1/2.7” CMOS
- 2.7” wide screen LCD
- 3 Lux
- 43mm filter Size





JVC GZ-HD7 Everio 5 New: $999.99

Unsecure image, only https images allowed: http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/JustenS/Cameras/JVC.jpgJVC GZ-HD7

The only HDD camcorder in this list, the HD7 allows you to film both HD and SD footage at 1080i and 420i onto a 60 GB hard drive. The HD7 Also allows you to film in both 4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios. The HD7 records footage in a less compressed HDV format of 30 Mbps, resulting in higher image quality. However like many HD cameras, the HD7 is fairly light demanding, meaning it does not perform to well in low light situations.

- HDV 30 mbps mpeg 2 compression.
- 1/5” 3CCD
- 60 GB hard drive
- 2.8”
- 19 Lux
- 46mm filter Size





High End/Professional SD Cameras:





Sony DCR-VX1000. (Discontinued) Used $600-$1000


Unsecure image, only https images allowed: http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/JustenS/Cameras/vx1000.jpgSony DCR-VX1000

Almost an antique now, this camera can still produce amazing colors rivaling newer cameras on the market today. Due to the age of the camera, the VX1000 is very prone to breaking and malfunctions. This camera has no LCD screen so all filming must be done through the viewfinder. Considering the age of the camera it is still common amongst skateboarders and are not hard to find used. If you are filming with this camera, USE A CAPTURE CAM, do not wear the VX1000s heads down anymore then possible.

- Mini DV
- 1/ 3” 3CCD
- No LCD
- 4 Lux
- 52mm Filter size



Sony DCR-VX2000/2100 (Discontinued) Used: $1500-$2300

Unsecure image, only https images allowed: http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/JustenS/Cameras/DCR-VX2100_IM.jpgSony DCR-VX2100

Sample Footage DCR-VX2000 http://blip.tv/file/get/Yeahbmx-Vx2000Footy298.mov

Sample Footage DCR-VX2100 https://www.vimeo.com/616452

Footage by: Jesse Trnka



The VX2000/2100 is similar to the VX1000 but newer and improved. The VX2000/2100 are far more reliable then the older member of the VX family. The most noticeable improvement is the LCD screen the VX1000 lacks. Both cameras produce excellent colors and the on cam mic produces decent quality audio. The VX2100 produces some of the best footage in lowlight conditions when compared to other sub $10,000 cameras.

- Mini DV
- 1/ 3” 3CCD
- 2.5” LCD
- VX2000: 2 Lux/VX2100 1 Lux
- 58mm filter size





Sony DSR-PD 150/170 (DSR-PD 150 Discontinued) New: $2900.00

Unsecure image, only https images allowed: http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/JustenS/Cameras/1026190pd170p.jpgDSR-PD 170

The professional version of the VX2000/VX2100. VX2000=PD150, VX2100=pd170. The most apparent difference is the ability to use professional audio equipment with the 2 XLR ports. There are several other minor features such as the ability to check the amount of time on the cameras heads, which you can’t do on the VX2000/2100.




Canon GL2 New: $1899.99


Unsecure image, only https images allowed: http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/JustenS/Cameras/CanonGL2.jpgCanon GL2

Sample Footage: GL2 Sample Footage: https://vimeo.com/729321

Footage by: Craig Jewell



The GL2 is the professional 3CCD camera in canon’s prosumer SD line. The GL2 is a large improvement over the previous GL1. The GL2 has smaller CCD sonsors then most other cameras in this price range, but to make up for the CCD size the camera uses pixel shifting to increase resolution. The 1/4” CCD size also affects the GL2s ability to film in low light conditions, as smaller CCDs require more light to produce higher quality footage.

- Mini DV
- 1/4” 3CCD
- 2.5” LCD Monitor
- 6 Lux
- 58mm filter size




Panasonic AG-DVX 100 a/b New: $2600.00 Used: $1800-$2200.


Unsecure image, only https images allowed: http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/JustenS/Cameras/1517_0.jpgAG-DVX 100b

Sample Footage DVX 100b: https://vimeo.com/2549932

Footage by: Craig Jewell


The DVX, hands down the best sub $10,000 handheld 3CCD SD camera. Even with HD becoming more common and popular, people still choose to buy DVX’s. Amazing colors, great low light capability, and the ability to film in 24p, 24pA and 30p, as well as amazing creative controls. It’s the independent filmmakers dream. The DVX has two XLR ports allowing for professional audio equipment. If you’re going to buy a new SD 3CCD camera and you have the money, buy a DVX.

- Mini DV
- 1/3” 3CCD
- 24p, 30p, 60i
- 3.5” LCD
- 2 XLR Ports
- 3 Lux
- 72mm Filter size





High End/Professional HD:





Sony HDR-FX1 New: $3050.00


Unsecure image, only https images allowed: http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/JustenS/Cameras/TB991_screen1.jpgSony HDR-FX1

Sony’s first Professional HDV camera, it allows you to film 1080i footage in 16:9. With the FX1 you have the option to film in either HDV or SD mini DV. One downside to this camera is that it does not have the features that other HD cameras have in its price range. It does not have XLR ports, or the ability to film in variable frame rates. However to make up for the lack of 24p, the FX1 has Cineframe which mimics the appearance of 24p footage.

- HDV, Mini DV
- 1/3” 3CCD
- Native 16:9
- 3.5” 16:9 LCD
- 3 Lux
- 72mm filter size

HDR-FX1 Sample Footage: http://blip.tv/file/get/JSoule-example110.mov

Footage by: Justen Soule



Sony HDR-FX7 New: $2695.00


Unsecure image, only https images allowed: http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/JustenS/Cameras/sony-hdr-fx7.jpgSony HDR-FX7

Sony’s “prosumer” HDV camera. Unlike the FX1, the FX7 uses 3CMOS chips to analyse colors. The FX7 is also smaller and lighter then the FX1, yet still offers comparable features. The FX7 can film 16:9 footage in either HDV or SD mini DV. Because of the cameras prosumer status, it lacks XLR ports.

- HDV, Mini DV
- 1/4” 3CMOS
- Native 16:9
- 3.5” 16:9 LCD
- 4 Lux
- 62mm filter size



Canon XH A1 New: $3400.00


Unsecure image, only https images allowed: http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/JustenS/Cameras/xh5oblique.jpgCanon XH A1

Sample Footage

XH A1 Sample Footage: https://www.vimeo.com/2429804

Footage by: Justen Soule



The XH A1 has been described as having the most extensive custom preset options in any sub $10,000 camera. The XH A1 uses the proprietary DIGIC DV II image processor, which allows the ability to film footage in HDV 1080i 16:9, as well as 16:9 SD and 4:3 SD footage. The XH A1 has the option to film in 60i, 30f, and 24f (24f and 30f are essentially the same as 24p and 30p). The XH A1 has an excellent on camera mic, but also offers 2 XLR ports and a shotgun mic bracket. The XH A1 is a great option to film in HD if you want a large amount of creative control but don’t want to spend $5000+ on an HVX, HPX or EX1.

- HDV, Mini DV
- 1/3” 3CCD
- Native 16:9
- DIGIC DV II image processor
- 24f, 30f, 60i
- 2.8” 16:9 LCD
- 0.4 Lux
- 72mm filter size



AG-HMC 150 New: $3495.00


Unsecure image, only https images allowed: http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/JustenS/Cameras/HMC.jpgAG-HMC 150

One of the new cameras from Panasonic. This is said to be the HD brother of the DVX. Tapeless like the HVX and HPX, but uses AVCH to record onto the less expensive solid state format of SDHC cards. The colors this camera can produce rival it’s SD brother the DVX. The camera uses new CCD sensors that record in a slightly lower resolution, then pixel shift up. Because of this the cameras lowlight footage is crisp and clean without the usual grainy noise problems with a lot of HD cameras. One downside to this camera is that it has only one SDHC slot. This means that there is no hot-swappable option, so once the card is full, you must stop recording, and replace the card. This is not a huge issue though, as SDHC cards larger then 8 GB allow you to record for longer then you could to a mini DV tape with a regular camera. The cameras stock lens is wide, making it easier to film rolling lines and in compact spaces without the need for a wide-angle lens. This camera produces stunning footage that easily rivals any other camera in the sub $10,000 range.

- AVCHD
- SDHC class 4 and 6
- 1/3" 3CCD
- Native 16:9
- 24p, 30p, 60p, 60i
- 3.5" 16:9 LCD
- 3 Lux
- 72mm filter size

HMC150 Sample Footage: https://www.vimeo.com/4160641

HMC150 60p Slow motio: http://a24.video2.blip.tv/2600001152612/JSoule-60pConformedTo24pTest976.mov

Footage by: Justen Soule


Panasonic AG-HVX 200a/AG-HPX170 New: $5200.00-$6000


Unsecure image, only https images allowed: http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/JustenS/Cameras/hvx_200.jpgPanasonic AG-HVX 200a

The HVX and HPX are the handheld P2 cameras in Panasonic’s line. The HVX200a and HPX share the same CCD sensor block as the HMC-150, which again shares the same low light filming capability. The HVX and HPX can produce footage nothing short of astounding. They can film 1080i, 1080p, and 720p (as well as 480i with the HVX) at multiple frame rates. The cameras use PCMCIA format P2 cards, in the DVCproHD codec, which allows for a simple editing workflow. The HVX can also record to mini DV tapes in 480i for SD footage only. Like the DVX, the HVX and HPX produces amazing colors and allows great creative control over your footage. The biggest downside to the two cameras is the price. To buy the either camera you’re looking at $5400, then add another $600-$1000 for each P2 card.


- P2 cards, (mini DV on the HVX)
- 1/3” 3CCD
- Native 16:9 (4:3 in 480i SD With the HVX)
- Can record in 480i (SD only with the HVX), 720p, 1080i, and 1080p
- 24p, 24pA, 30p, 60i, 60p
- 3.5” 16:9 LCD
- 3 Lux
- 82mm filter size (HVX)/72mm filter size (HPX)


Sony PMW-EX1 New: $6100-$7200


Unsecure image, only https images allowed: http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p165/JustenS/Cameras/Sony_PMW-EX1_camcorder_lg-thumb.jpgSony PMW-EX1

Sony’s answer to the popularity of the P2 card cameras. The EX1 uses SXS cards and records in the XDCAM EX codec. The camera can produce an amazing image with vivid colors in both regular and low light conditions. The camera uses 3 1/ 2” CMOS Exmor sensors, which are larger then many other cameras in it’s class. Because of the size of the sensors, more light can be processed meaning even in low light the cameras images are almost noise free and colors are vivid. Because of the quality of the cameras image compared to size, it makes it perfect for run and gun filming situations, even for those that once used larger shoulder mounted ENG cameras. The downside to this camera would be the price. New it ranges from $6100- $7200 without the cost of the SXS cards which are in the $1000+ range per card. Regardless of the price, the image this camera can produce is outstanding.

- XDCAM EX
- 3 1/ 2” CMOS “Exmor” Sensor
- Native 16:9
- Can record in 720p, 1080i, and 1080p
- 24p, 30p, 60i, 60p
- 0.12 Lux
- 77mm filter size




Hopefully this information is helpful to those looking into a new video camera. Thanks again to Jesse Trnka, Craig Jewell, and Will Evans for their sample footage.

I have more sample footage that will go up in the next couple days.
flag adudeonabike
Posted: May 9, 2009 at 19:28 Quote
HELLA good post dude, hella.
flag niceguysfinishfast
Posted: May 14, 2009 at 12:48 Quote
This is really informative. I can't wait to see how the RED Scarlet compares to some of these when it comes out.
flag adudeonabike
Posted: May 15, 2009 at 13:45 Quote
Might want to add the Canon XL2 to the list... def not the best cam out there but still worth a look.
flag JSoule
Posted: May 15, 2009 at 13:53 Quote
I was thinking of adding a couple other cameras to the list, the XL2 and other XH series canon cameras should be in it.

And yes, I'm definitely waiting on Scarlet, if it's ever actually released.... Haha no, on paper it looks to be an amazing camera.
flag adudeonabike
Posted: May 19, 2009 at 13:07 Quote
yeah it looks hella good on paper. If it has as few rolling shutter problems as the RED ONE then I'm thinking I'll pick one up...
flag niceguysfinishfast
Posted: May 19, 2009 at 15:52 Quote
The irony is how pricey it will end up being. The body and one lens is $3000 so that means you need battery, viewfinder or screen, recording medium (hardrive or RED card)... it's not going to be cheap. I'm thinking like around $7-$8000 to have it operational. You never know though, hopefully I'm wrong.
flag JSoule
Posted: May 19, 2009 at 19:39 Quote
The nice thing is that relatively speaking, $7000-8000 is not that much when you think what the camera would be capable of. Considering it would easily beat ENG cameras in the $10,000-$20,000 range for both sensor size(color capability) and resolution. I mean 4K for less then $10,000? Right now you'd be looking at a setup in the $40,000 range to get something similar.

I would definitely switch out my HMC150 setup for a Scarlet setup if the camera ends up being released with the specs they have announced. Scarlet could potentially shake up the entire film industry.
flag AMBikerJJ8
Posted: May 27, 2009 at 20:04 Quote
You keep referring to the camera's "head". What is this?
flag JSoule
Posted: May 27, 2009 at 22:08 Quote
The cameras heads are what the camera uses to physically "read" the data on a mini DV tape. Over time, the cameras heads wear down and can get clogged with the lubricant used on mini DV tapes.
flag olly1oo6
O+
Posted: May 30, 2009 at 20:55 Quote
niceguysfinishfast wrote:
This is really informative. I can't wait to see how the RED Scarlet compares to some of these when it comes out.

It will absolutely obliterate them.
Almost all the cameras in the under 10k price range use 1/3 inch sensors, many have highly compressed codecs and most lack a useable amount of dynamic range. In other words, no matter what you buy or choose, you are still getting arse on a stick compared to what is just around the corner.
flag SpikeX
Posted: Jun 7, 2009 at 2:50 Quote
I really want to get a RED camera. As has been mentioned they blow everything else out of the water. You basically build the camera yourself with exactly what you want and based on your needs. And all the cameras and parts look beautifully made and very durable. I'm gonna seriously get a job somewhere and work to buy a Scarlet or a One. Why bother buying one of the "normal" cameras any more? Razz
flag collin7
Posted: Jun 24, 2009 at 13:35 Quote
thanks a lot for this post man! I think im gonna look into one of the canon HV's probably a 30. Appreciate it!
flag lukethorpe
Posted: Jul 21, 2009 at 15:59 Quote
Hey duude seems you know alot about cameras, damn good post, thank you! What do you think of the JVC GZ-MG645BEK, i don't want anything to flashy and expensive but decent enough for stuff on here and good quality. Thanks!
flag JSoule
Posted: Jul 21, 2009 at 21:20 Quote
lukethorpe wrote:
Hey duude seems you know alot about cameras, damn good post, thank you! What do you think of the JVC GZ-MG645BEK, i don't want anything to flashy and expensive but decent enough for stuff on here and good quality. Thanks!

I haven't personally used that camera, so I can't give an opinion of if from hands on experience, but it looks ok for a more simple camera.

The one problem you might run into is that because it's a HDD camera, you might have to transcode the footage from the camera's hard drive to convert it into something your editing software can work with. Which could bring up another problem. Depending on the software you're using to edit, the cameras footage may not be compatible.
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