Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder
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Recording media is not included, be prepared - always carry extra media.
The Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder is the first handheld professional camcorder model to record the extremely high-quality AVC-Intra 100 Mb/s (10-bit 4:2:2) codec. Featuring an integrated 22x zoom lens and a 2.2 Mp 1/3"-type 3MOS imager, the versatile HPX250 records not only AVC-Intra but also several flavors of DVCPRO (including DVCPRO HD) as well as DV. A variety of frame rates are possible in DVCPRO modes, for native slow- and fast-motion effects.
For video that will later endure heavy processing in the form of effects and other processes, the intra-frame compression options of the HPX250 are crucial. The AVC-Intra 100 codec is a perfect choice for any projects that involve tasks such as greenscreen shooting. The HPX250 could thrive as the second camcorder on an independent feature production, or as the go-to model for a freelance videographer who does a variety of jobs, from SD to HD – and with support for PAL/NTSC signal systems, it will cross oceans without missing a beat. Its compact size makes it hard to leave at home.
For rock-solid reliability, professional P2 cards (sold separately) provide more peace of mind than their SD brethren from the world of mass-market consumer electronics. With two slots, you can record either simultaneously (for creating an instant back-up) or sequentially, with hot-swap support.
- Panasonic Optical Technology
- The HPX250's high-performance 22x zoom lens was designed specifically for professional HD video production. Sharing the wide-angle capability found in the DVX and HVX series, the lens offers some additional telephoto capability for a 28-616mm (35mm equivalent) zoom range. The lens combines 18 elements in 12 groups and adds an ultra-high refractive (UHR) glass element, a low-dispersion element, and aspheric elements. Unique to Panasonic, Chromatic Aberration Compensation (CAC) technology minimizes color bleeding in the surrounding image and achieves rich expression by way of finely rendered nuances and excellent shading
- Manual Control Rings
- Three manual rings – mechanical (cam-driven) zoom, focus, and iris – allow you to operate as if you've got an interchangeable-lens camcorder, for fine, tactile control over the parameters of the captured image
- Optical Image Stabilization
- To compensate for any shaking of the operator's hand, the HPX250 features an optical image stabilizer (OIS)
- High-Sensitivity, Low-Noise 3MOS Image Sensor
- Thanks to Progressive Advanced Processing (PAP) technology, high sensitivity up to F10 (F11 in 50 Hz mode) is possible, for low-noise performance in dimly lit environments. The 1/3-type 2.2 Mp 3MOS sensor features the same Ultra Luminance Technology (ULT) that's incorporated in Panasonic's shoulder-mount P2 HD broadcast camcorders. This sensor maximizes the performance of the lens and the signal processing circuit in standard conditions
- Flash Band Compensation
- The CMOS sensor system uses a rolling shutter system that sequentially scans each line of pixels, thereby lowering power consumption vs. CCD cameras and enabling high-speed drive. But because the exposure timing differs for each line, when an external flash is used, it tends to produce images with a "divided" level of brightness from top to bottom. The HPX250 ameliorates this "flash-band effect": it detects by comparing frame pairs and compensates to adjust the level
- 20-Bit Digital Signal Processor
- The AG-HP250's high-performance 20-bit DSP handles rendering processes such as gamma and detail-enhancement functions with uncommon precision
- Dynamic Range Stretch (DRS)
- The DRS function automatically suppresses blocked shadows and blown highlights in scenes that involve wildly varying contrast levels (such as indoor vs. outdoor elements in the same frame). DRS estimates a gamma curve and knee slope to match the contrast of each pixel and applies them in real time, producing excellent gradation for each shade and minimizing blocked shadows and blown highlights
- Seven-Mode Gamma for Rich Gradation
- Drawing upon the technology of the high-end VariCam line, the HPX250 features gamma functions for seven shooting scenarios, including two cinema modes: HD NORM (for standard HD recording), LOW (flattens out a high-contrast scene); SD NORM (for standard SD recording); HIGH (softens contrast and expands the tone of dark parts, making an image brighter); B.PRESS (sharpens the contrast compared to LOW); CINE-LIKE D (prioritizes dynamic range); and CINE-LIKE V (prioritizes contrast)
- Other Camera Image Settings
- The camera's shutter speed is variable from 1/6 to 1/2000 second, plus there's a Synchro Scan function. As with gamma, matrix setting includes a Cine-Like mode. H & V detail levels are adjustable, as are detail coring and skin-tone detail. That's not all: chroma level, chroma phase, color temperature, and master pedestal are all adjustable as well. The camera offers four settings for knee point: Auto, Low, Mid, and High
- Focus Assist Function
- A convenient Focus Assist button expands the center of the LCD screen, allowing you to check for correct focus quickly & easily. A Focus Bar that indicates the focus level can be displayed on the LCD
- Scene File / User File
- The HPX250 features a dial for "Set Scene," which allows you to choose an appropriate matrix of settings instantaneously. You can modified the six preset files if you'd like, one set of which can be stored internally in the camcorder, and four more can be stored on an SD memory card
- Three-Position Gain Selector + Super Gain
- The three-position Gain Selector contains Low, Medium, and High settings. To each setting you can assign gain value of 0, +3, +6, +9, +12, +15, and +18 dB. Also, there are Super Gain settings of +24 and +30 dB
- Simplified Waveform & Vectorscope
- The AJ-HPX250 has waveform and vectorscope display functions for analyzing a captured video signal on the LCD
- Five User Buttons
- A total of five user buttons can be set to trigger any selection of 18 different camera functions
- Full-Pixel, Full-Sample AVC-Intra Recording (10-Bit, 4:2:2)
- The HPX250 is the first handheld camcorder to offer 10-bit AVC-Intra recording (at both 100 and 50 Mb/s). Based on highly advanced MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 compression, this codec employs intra-frame compression, which results high image quality – especially in the edit suite, where inter-frame codecs can start to break down. Both AVC-Intra 100 and 50 modes are offered – as is DVCPRO HD, for compatibility with that very popular format. For 1080i/p, AVC-Intra 100 uses full-pixel 1920 x 1080 frames, with 10-bit quantization (4:2:2). The very bit-efficient AVC-Intra 50 codec records 1440 x 1080 video at 10-bit, 4:2:0
- Native Recording & Pulldown Modes with PAL/NTSC Support
- For cinematic 24-frame-per-second projects, the HPX250 supports 1080p recording at 23.98 fps (29.97 fps is also possible). For PAL regions, the camcorder is capable of recording at 1080/25pN and 720/25pN. The camcorder also records natively (without pulldown) in 720p modes, which results in recording efficiency that allows you to record for 2 to 2.5 times the duration allowed by pulldown recording. In pulldown mode with the DVCPRO HD codec, the camera applies a 2:3 pulldown to 23.98p, and a 2:2 pulldown to 29.97p, to record 1080/59.94i or 720/59.94p and 1080/25p over 50i or 720/25p over 50p. With 2:3:3:2 advanced pulldown, the 23.98pA mode is supported, allowing editing on many NLE systems with little image degradation. The camcorder also features a 59.94/50 Hz selector for worldwide compatibility and SD image acquisition with either 480 or 576 lines and aspect ratio conversion (select Side Crop, Letter Box, or Squeeze). This is an internationally compatible camcorder that can fit seamlessly into almost any production workflow
- High-Quality 4-Channel Audio
- The AG-APX250 records high-quality 16-bit audio on all four channels. Freely select the audio source for each channel, choosing from built-in mic, external mic, and line in. Adjust the volume level for each channel
- Rock-Solid Recording with P2 Cards
- P2 cards are built tough for broadcast applications – this is not a consumer storage technology that migrated into the professional world. P2 offers 64 GB capacity and resists impact, vibration, and temperature changes. The recording format withstands repeated recording and initialization cycles for an extended product lifetime. The connector section of the card is designed for the type of blithe insertion and removal that is inevitable on a high-pressure production. For a solid-state recording format, P2 is downright venerable, with a proven track record in the worlds of movie production and broadcast
- Double-Slot P2 Card System
- Not only can you record continuously on two P2 cards, but you can also choose Card Select mod (which allows the recording slot to be switched in Standby mode) and Hot-Swap Recording, in which the card in the stand-by slot can be exchanged while the camcorder is recording to the other card
- MXF File-Based Recording
- File-based recording enables data transfers that are much faster than real time. Filed recorded to the HPX250's P2 cards have MXF wrappers, which are compatible with all major nonlinear editing systems. File-based recording to memory cards allows for high-speed starts, recording starts with no need for cueing, and protection against accidental data overwriting
- Variable Frame Rates, Even in 1080p
- Like the popular VariCam line of professional camcorders, the HPX250 features variable frame rate (VFR) "overcranked" and "undercranked" recording to at wide variety of frame rates (see Specifications for details). The result is cinematic slow-motion and quick-motion effects of the type used widely in TV commercials and cinematic productions
- Clip Thumbnail Display & Clip Editing
- Recorded clips are automatically allocated a thumbnail image and metadata. This lets you display a visual representation of the clip on the LCD, delete clips, and confirm or edit metadata (using the built-in Software Keyboard function). You can delete the last clip with a single touch, also with a single button press, and check the beginning and ending of the most recently recorded clip
- Shot Market & Text Memo
- Clips can be marked during or after recording. When mounted to a PC using the downloadable P2 Viewer Windows application, the user can view only marked clips if desires. Text memos can be posted to any scene of a clip (up to 100 in all) for a digital version of "sticky" notes
- One-Clip Rec Mode
- Record up to 99 cuts as a single file in One-Clip Rec mode. A text memo is automatically attached at each start-record point, making it easy to find desired cuts within the clip once you're in the edit suite working with a single, unified file
- Other Recording Modes
- Loop Rec repeatedly re-records a particular recurring time slot, always maintaining a recording of the most recent period. Pre-Rec continuously stores in standby mode up to 3 seconds of HD video (or 7 seconds of SD), and this pre-record cache is only recorded to the P2 card once you press Record. This helps you get the shot every time, even if you "miss" the crucial moment by a couple seconds. Interval Rec gives you automatic intermittent recording based on a set interval and recording time. One-Shot Rec captures a single frame – useful for animations. Time Stamp appends the date and time onto recorded images, which is a crucial feature for evidential images
- Multi-Camera Synchronization
- The AG-HPX250 features every capability you'd want for synchronizing more than one camera for multi-camera shoots: SMPTE time code generator/reader, time code input and output, and genlock input
- Video Outputs: SDI, HDMI & More
- SDI output in HD and SD allows camera-through output during HD/SD recording, or outputs high-quality 10-bit, 4:2:2 images for playback of AVC-Intra footage. As you'd expect, SDI output includes embedded audio and supports Record Stop/Start linked backup recording with a Panasonic recorder equipped with HD-SDI input. When outputting SD-SDI down-converted from an HD source, Aspect Ratio Conversion mode can also be selected. In addition, the HPX250 gives you HDMI output for live monitoring and for playback on compatible HDTV screens, as well as SD composite output that downconverts recorded HD files
- Other Interfaces
- Both "host" and "device" USB 2.0 connections are included on the HPX250, so you can offload data to a laptop or P2 deck or directly to and from a hard drive. On the LCD monitor, you can even view thumbnails of P2 files saved to the external hard drive. In addition, the FireWire (IEEE 1394) port enables you to input or output a DVCPRO (including DVCPRO HD) or DV stream. There's a camera remote input for controlling focus, iris, zoom, and REC stop/start, and two-channel XLR audio mic/line inputs supporting 48V phantom power
- Stylishly Designed for Mobility
- The compact, stylish HPX250 has a similar form factor to the popular HVX200, but the handle grip and LCD position are shifted forward to effect and overall better weight balance for the camcorder, improving the visibility of the screen and enabling you to shoot comfortably for longer periods of time. The HPX250 chassis is composed of die-cast magnesium alloy for rugged durability
- High-Resolution, High-Brightness Color Viewfinder & LCD
- The AG-HPX250's color electronic viewfinder uses a 0.45", 1,226,000-dot equivalent (852 x 480 x 3 [RGB]) LCoS (liquid crystal on silicon) display panel. It delivers bright, detailed, high-res images and a high response speed. The camcorder's 3.45" LCD monitor has is an approximately 921,000-dot (1920 x 480) high-resolution panel
- Low-Angle Shots
- On the upper part of the handle grip you'll find both the Rec Start/Stop button and a lens zoom speed control (three speed levels). This assures easy, comfortable shooting at low angles
- LCD Monitor Mirror Mode
- The LCD monitor's mirror mode is extremely convenient for shooting interviews
- Workflow Versatility
- The Panasonic P2 family includes many decks and mobile storage units, providing a wealth of options for offloading, field editing, and cutting back in the edit room. In addition, the file-based nature of the HPX250's acquisition enables recorded video to be integrated into IT-based infrastructure, for unlimited options for sharing and distributing P2 content
- White Balance Functions
- The camera features two values (A/B) for white balance memory and one preset value. There's also an ATW (auto tracing white balance) function
- Zebra
- Select any two zebra levels from 50% to 100% (in 1% steps)
- Y-GET Brightness Check
- The camera's Y-GET function measures the brightness at the screen center and displays precise numerical data
- Tally Lamps
- Tally lamps are provided on the front and rear of the HPX250
| Image Device |
3x 1/3-type progressive 2.2 Mp CMOS Prism color separation |
| Lens |
22x optical zoom 2x, 5x, 10x digital zoom 3.9-86mm (28-616mm 35mm equivalent) f/1.6-3.2 18 elements in 12 groups |
| Minimum Object Distance (M.O.D.) | Approx. 3.3' (1 m) |
| Filter Diameter | 72mm |
| Horizontal Resolution | Not specified by manufacturer |
| Sensitivity |
59.94 Hz mode (at 2000 lux, 3200K, 89.9% reflection): F7 (1080i59.94, P.A.P. Filter: TYPE2), F10 (1080i59.94, P.A.P. Filter: TYPE1) 50 Hz mode (at 2000 lux, 3200K, 89.9% reflection): F8 (1080i50, P.A.P. Filter: TYPE2), F11 (1080i50, P.A.P. Filter: TYPE1) |
| Minimum Illumination | 0.2 lux (f/1.6, gain +30 dB, shutter speed 1/30 second, P.A.P. Filter: TYPE1) |
| Vertical Smear | Not specified by manufacturer |
| Signal System | NTSC/PAL |
| Built-in Filters | ND filter: OFF, 1/4, 1/16, 1/64 |
| LCD Monitor | 3.45" (87.63mm) color LCD monitor with approx. 921K dots (16:9) |
| Viewfinder | 0.45" (11.43mm) color LCoS monitor with approx. 1226K dots (16:9) |
| Scan Matching | Not specified by manufacturer |
| Memory Card Slot | 2x P2 slots |
| Shutter Speed |
60i/60p mode: 1/60, 1/100, 1/120, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000 second 30p mode: 1/30, 1/60, 1/100, 1/120, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000 second 24p mode: 1/24, 1/60, 1/100, 1/120, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000 second 50i/50p mode: 1/50, 1/60, 1/100, 1/120, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000 second 25p mode: 1/25, 1/50, 1/60, 1/100, 1/120, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000 second |
| Slow Shutter |
60i/60p mode: 1/15, 1/30 second 30p mode: 1/7.5, 1/15 second 24p mode: 1/6, 1/12 second 50i/50p mode: 1/12.5, 1/25 second 25p mode: 1/6.25, 1/12.5 second |
| Synchro Scan Shutter |
60i/60p mode: 1/60.0 to 1/249.8 second 30p mode: 1/30.0 to 1/249.8 second 24p mode: 1/24.0 to 1/249.8 second 50i/50p mode: 1/50.0 to 1/250.0 second 25p mode: 1/25.0 to 1/250.0 second |
| Shutter Opening Angle | 3-359.5° in 0.5° increments |
| Frame Rates |
59.94 Hz mode: 1080p: 1/2/4/6/9/12/15/18/20/21/22/24/25/26/27/28/30 fps, 17 step 720p: 1/2/4/6/9/12/15/18/20/21/22/24/25/26/27/28/30/32/34/36/40/44/48/54/60 fps, 25 step 50 Hz mode: 1080p: 1/2/4/6/9/12/15/18/20/21/22/24/25 fps, 14 step 720p: 1/2/4/6/9/12/15/18/20/21/22/24/25/26/27/28/30/32/34/36/40/44/48/50 fps, 25 step |
| Gain Selection | 0/+3/+6/+9/+12/+15/+18/+24/+30 db (+24 db, +30 db: USER SW allocation only) |
| Recording Media | P2 card |
| Recording Formats | AVC-Intra 100, AVC-Intra 50, DVCPRO HD, DVCPRO50, DVCPRO, DV |
| Maximum Recording Time |
(With 1x 64 GB P2 card) AVC-Intra 100, DVCPRO HD: 64 minutes AVC-Intra 50, DVCPRO50: 128 minutes DVCPRO, DV: 256 minutes |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | Not specified by manufacturer |
| Video Signals | 1080/59.94i, 1080/29.97p, 1080/29.97pN, 1080/23.98p, 1080/23.98pA, 1080/23.98pN, 720/59.94p, 720/29.97p, 720/29.97pN, 720/23.98p, 720/23.98pN, 480/59.94i, 480/29.97p, 480/23.98p, 480/23.98pA, 1080/50i, 1080/25p, 1080/25pN, 720/50p, 720/25p, 720/25pN, 576/50i, 576/25p |
| Sampling Frequency |
AVC-Intra 100, DVCPRO HD: Y: 74.1758 MHz, Pb/Pr: 37.0879 MHz (59.94 Hz) Y: 74.2500 MHz, Pb/Pr: 37.1250 MHz (50 Hz) DVCPRO50: Y: 13.5 MHz, Pb/Pr: 6.75 MHz DVCPRO: Y: 13.5 MHz, Pb/Pr: 3.375 MHz |
| Quantization |
AVC-Intra 100, AVC-Intra 50: 10-bit DVCPRO HD, DVCPRO50, DVCPRO, DV: 8-bit |
| Video Compression |
AVC-Intra 100, AVC-Intra 50: MPEG-4 AVC / H.264 Intra profile DVCPRO HD: DV-based compression (SMPTE 370M) DVCPRO50, DVCPRO: DV-based compression (SMPTE 314M) DV: DV compression (IEC 61834-2) |
| Audio Signal |
AVC-Intra 100/50, DVCPRO HD, DVCPRO50: 48 kHz, 16-bit, 4-channel DVCPRO/DV: 48 kHz, 16-bit, 2/4-channel switchable |
| Speaker | 1x 20mm diameter |
| Video Outputs |
Composite: 1x pin jack, 1.0V [p-p], 75 ohm SDI: 1x BNC, 0.8V [p-p], 75 ohm, HD/SD switching via menu, 10-bit 4:2:2 throughout HDMI: 1x HDMI Type A |
| Audio I/O |
Input: 2x XLR 3-pin (input 1, input 2) Line/Mic/+48V switchable Line: 0 dBu Mic: -40 dBu / -50 dBu / -60 dBu switching via menu Built-in Mic In supports stereo microphones Output: 2x pin jack (channel 1 / channel 2), 316mV, 600 ohm output 1x 3.5mm diameter stereo mini jack for headphones |
| Other I/O Connections |
Genlock In: 1x BNC, 1.0V [p-p], 75 ohm Time Code In/Out: 1x BNC (In: 0.5V [p-p] to 8V [p-p], 10 k-ohm; Out: Low-impedance, 2.0±0.5V [p-p]) Camera Remote: 1x 2.5mm diameter super mini jack (zoom, shutter speed); 1x 3.5mm diameter mini jack (focus, iris) IEEE 1394: 1x 6-pin, digital input/output USB 2.0 (Device): 1x Type Mini B, 4-pin USB 2.0 USB 2.0 (Host): 1x Type A, 4-pin USB 2.0 |
| Power Requirements |
7.2V DC via battery 7.9V DC via AC adapter |
| Power Consumption | 15.0W with monitor in use |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to 40 °C (32 to 104 °F) |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 7 x 7.69 x 17.25" (180 x 195 x 438mm) |
| Weight | Approx. 5.5 lb (2.5 kg) excluding battery and accessories |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 19 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Professional quality (15)
- Easy to use (13)
- Lightweight (9)
- Compact (8)
- Zoom range/performance (8)
Cons
Best Uses
- Independent films (9)
- Complex projects (7)
- In the studio (7)
- HD shooting (4)
- Weddings (4)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Business owner (8), Professional artist (5), Pro videographer (5)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (19)
Reviewed by 19 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-19
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Corporate
- HD Shooting
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder:
I'm surprised overall at how much better the HPX250 works with lower lighting than previous models. The AVC-Intra recording is great to work with, although a bit pricey for the cards. But overall a great camera
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- In The Studio
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder:
I am a Video Manger for a large sports summer kamp. I just replaced an old beat up HMC150 with this camera. I do lots of fast paced shooting on the field and a good amount of green screen shooting as well. This camera's sharpness ( even with sharpness down all the way as I set it) blows the HMC150 out of the water. The high-end Professional codec of this camera, combined with the detail and color quality, truly make this camera the best deal at this price point ( and even cameras at higher price points).
One note I will make to people buying this for green screening. The image by default has a decent amount of fine noise when set at PAP 2 (I only really noticed this on my first green screen shoot, not in other footage I have shot). Switching the Camera to PAP 1 will make the camera more light sensitive and less noisy. For fast action and outdoor shooting, leave it at PAP 2.
I love the external controls and the feel of the camera in my hand.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- 422 10BIT
- Compact Design
- Easy To Use
- Highly Compatible
- Improves Performance
- Lightweight
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Anything
- Complex Projects
- In The Studio
- Stage Performances
- Weddings
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder:
This is what I have been waiting for great price, size and codec. This has it all, 4 audio channels, 4:2:2, Rock Solid P2 cards, SDI, HDMI, Awsome scene settings, full raster, full manual controls. You might hear people complain about the auto focus, if you turn the auto feature to off, and use the push to focus, it wont keep hunting, also there is allot of glass so keep that in mind as why it takes it a few to get focus. However I havent had any issues. You will love this camera!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Affordability
- Easy To Use
- Highly Compatible
- Improves Performance
- Lightweight
- Professional Quality
Cons
- Low Light Limitations
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Independent Films
- Interviews
- In The Studio
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder:
I work with a video production company that provides Western Washington with custom video services and the AG-HPX250 is a phenomenal camera for our business.
My company recently upgraded from the Panasonic AG-HVX200 to a brand new Panasonic AG-HPX250 and we are thoroughly excited about using the 250 in our upcoming productions.
We love being able to record in 10-bit , instead of 8-bit, for a sharper picture and better keying when we shoot on our CYC wall. Another green screen bonus feature in the 250 is the addition of a Wave Form Monitor built in to the camera's monitor which can be turned on and off with the push of one button. It's amazing, and it allows us to get the perfect key every time. The monitor on the AG-HPX250 is one of the sharpest I have ever seen on a camera, it truly is incredible.
Shooting to P2 card is the best way for us to record high-quality uncompressed footage. With the AG-HPX250 there is no tape mechanism to worry about breaking down in the future, making this camera a no-maintenance, worry free tool with years of use ahead. No tape mechanism in the camera also allows it to be lighter that the old 200 despite having a better lens with a much longer 22 to 1 zoom.
I cannot say that this camera has it all, but it does have everything I look for in a HD camera. The only fault that I have beef with so far would be that when the LCD monitor on the camera is closed there is no button to make it pop open, you just kind of have to paw at it until it pops open. So, keep that in mind if you have no thumbs.
To recap, this camera is quite impressive. Upgrading to the AG-HPX250 is a vast improvement for recording in various High Def formats. The weight of the camera is unexpectedly light, the lens is fast, responsive and powerful, and the extra features loaded into this camera and its super-sharp monitor made this purchase more than worth it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Hugo2440
Yeah it looks good!
(3 of 4 customers found this review helpful)
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Pros
- Highly Compatible
- Improves Performance
- Lightweight
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Independent Films
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder:
Very good low light performance. Light weigt. Well balanced. Overall great camcorder. Feels a little plasticy but the excellent performance more than compensates for that.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Easy To Use
- Highly Compatible
- Professional Quality
Cons
- ND switch hard to operate
- Power button hard to use
Best Uses
- Professional Productions
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder:
We use it for professional productions, broadcast, etc and our content is licensed globally. Great ergonomics, stunningly reliable, and great picture quality/codec.
Some of the switches NEED to be bigger as they are hard to operate even with medium sized fingers.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Design maturity utility
- Lightweight
- Professional Quality
Cons
- P2 cards too expensive
Best Uses
- ENG
- Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder:
This is a purpose build ENG camera, capable also for field production. Within constraints of the video model (as opposed to Red's raw model), this is as good as it gets for this purpose and within this price range.
I wish it had 2/3 sensors, though, even if that would mean the lens would not go so long.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Professional Quality
Cons
- Limited Compatibility
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Independent Films
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder:
This product is very useful for me, it is really good for low light.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
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Was this review helpful? Yes / No
- You may also flag this review
Pros
- Compact Design
- Easy To Use
- Highly Compatible
- Improves Performance
- Lightweight
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- ENG
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder:
I researched cameras in this size and price range for a long time before settling on this one. And I'm so glad I did! I needed a PROFESSIONAL camera for run-and-gun ENG work that would also look great for interviews. This is it. Sure, you can get prettier shallow DOF w/ other cameras, but if you're going to need something that can also do the run & gun, you need something like this. The 4:2:2 color space was another big selling point for me, as I shoot a lot of greenscreen.
I'm still learning a bit on this camera, but so far, my only tiny complaints are that I wish you could adjust the image stabilization sensitiviy (or pick from various settings) and that the thumb power switch at the grip is made for much shorter thumbs than mine. Overall - not much to compain about.
When looking for batteries for this camera, I highly recommend the Panasonic batts over the Pearstone knockoffs. The Pearstones last and charge just fine, but easily knock loose if you bump the battery, shutting your camera off. I've really only had this problem when going for low shots though. (battery issue, not camera)
When I registered this camera, I got a free guide book, which I HIGHLY recommend. I also copied over some scene files from the HPX300, which look fantastic on this camera!
Overall, I love this purchase.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Independent Films
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder:
It is really good for the wedding shooting.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
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Pros
- Easy To Use
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- In The Studio
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder:
The Panasonic HPX250 is a great camera. It has all the offering its big brother has sans removable lenses. I have no need for additional lenses as mainly this camera will be used for corporate messages and training videos. It has a great digital work flow with the P2 Cards and got a great rebate from Panasonic that sealed the deal. I have only used it on 3 shoots so far and the camera has performed very well. It is great having 3 steps in the ND filter - very helpful on sunny days!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Similar:
- Canon XH A1
Pros
- Compact Design
- Lightweight
- Professional Quality
Cons
- Challenging for hand held
Best Uses
- Broadcast
- Corporate video work
- Webcasting
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder:
Only had the camera for a week and have used it for one professional job, so I've got a lot to learn. The P2 card expense was my biggest objection to buying the HPX250, but when you compare the cost to some of the high speed CF cards for other cameras, P2 becomes negligable.
I love the wide variety of resolutions and frame rates. The manual focusing and manual iris work the way a video camera is supposed to, instead of the servo-components on some of the Canon video cameras in this price range. Everyone says they're "broadcast-quality," but with 4:2:2 processing and 10 bit video, this camera is acceptable for any national broadcaster. NBC just bought a hundred of them for the 2012 Summer Olympics.
I also have a Canon EOS5DM2, and found it very limiting for video work due to the lack of professional audio input and servo zoom. Although I love the picture and DOF in the HDSLR, you're constantly fighting with it to make up for the lack of "video-readiness."
B&H service is amazing. Purchased it Thursday afternoon at 4PM on the web and had it in my office on Friday. Used their "Bill me Later," which is really just a credit account with Paypal, but 6 months with no interest is a great way to pay the camera off.
Only negative comment: I wish there was some kind of affordable Shoulder Mount for easier hand-held use, but I'll get used to it for that. Most of my shooting is on sticks anyhow.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder:
I usually produce documentary, corporate and event videos. Mobile and high-end features will be nice. This camera perfectly fit my category.
In spite of the sensor size, the camera has 10-bit 422 recording and produces super video footage. Variable frame rates and HD-SDI are great features.
One setback is poor design for Power/mode interface.
For this price range and broadcast quality , you will be happy with this camera. 10-bit matters.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Lightweight
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Independent Films
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder:
I work as a professional videographer. I make docs, client videos and all sort of things. I needed a versatile and high quality camera to deliver project after project. This is it. I am very happy with what I have.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Improves Performance
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Independent Films
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder:
I researched cameras in this price range for quite a while as I wanted to work use my next camera for docs and various client projects. It is a breeze to use, shoots beautiful footage and lives up to its reputation as a versatile camera. I couldn't be happier.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact Design
- Lightweight
- Professional Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Complex Projects
- Independent Films
- In The Studio
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder:
I bought this camera for doc. events since it has mobile size and many high-end specifications, e.g. 10-bit 4:2:2,HD-SDI. Of course, the price is also a good reason for my purchase.
Owing to the expensive recording media for this camera, I also bought Atomos Ninja as main recording tool. The footage seems superb. 10-bit matters.
One setback, Power/Mode Switch - poor design.
Extra battery needed if you want to shoot over two-hour project.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Large for a hand-held
Best Uses
- Corporate work
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder:
I use the camera for ENG/EFP shoots, i.e. corporate videos, candids videos, green screen, segment packages etc.
Even though the size is slightly larger than most hand-held professional cameras it has features that far outweigh that point. Having a 4:2:2 10bit signal path with HD_SDI out and a 22X lens with arguably the best 1/3" chips ever made at 2.2 megapixel per, this camera is a dream come true. Not to mention I can shoot both 1080p or 720p both at 24 or 30 frames.
Even better, I can shoot silky smooth 60p at 720p for great slow-mo. And, this camera can easily be the main camera for a documentary or provide B-camera videography for many shoots that are also using an A-camera that costs 3-10 times more money.
Yes, it has an integrated (non-removable) lens. So what? It's a 35mm equilvalent of 28-616mm and it's ultra clean with little to no aberrations or astigmatisms. For the price versus useablility what did you expect otherwise. With all the niche cameras out there today, this camera gives you more bang for the buck than any other around $5000.00...give or take a few thousand, I might add.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder:
In spite of the huge push towards bigger sensors and HDSLR cameras it's refreshing to see Panasonic is still committed to creating a great video camera. This camera delivers on every level.
It's lightweight, a super wide angle lens that pushes into a 22X zoom, a chipset that performs incredibly well in low light not to mention the shooting options it gives you in terms of codecs and frame rates. All the way from mini DV to DVC Intra 100. WOW! I have been a big fan of P2 for some time in spite of the irrational price of their cards, it is a stable and reliable codec. Now that there is an affordable and uncompromising camera to deliver this codec has simply made my year! Full 4:2:2 color sampling, 10 bit, Intaframe 100 all for under $6000.00 is simply incredible! Although I do occasionally shoot on DSLR's, most of my real world work requires me being a one man show and needing a separate audio device to get good audio is simply not realistic for me. After all I make videos, not films. I highly recommend this camera for just about any application. The Cmos chip set does not "Jello" like the Sony cameras which is important when you shoot allot of sports action as I do.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HPX250 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder:
wedding,aniversary & jubileys professional films. This camera Panasonic HPX250 very fine & super low light situations record fine files. This camera super & free comment+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-19
Media
Required item: Recording media is not included. Be prepared-always carry extra media.
- Price: $399.00
Batteries & Power Adapters
Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.
- Price: $149.00
External Microphones
Focus your sound with a high-quality microphone. Audio quality can make or break your video.
- Price: $164.94
Bags & Cases
Carry, organize and protect your investment with quick access to your gear.
- Price: $190.09
Tripod & Stationary Supports
Stabilize the your footage and eliminate handheld fatigue with the support you need.
-
- Original: $149.95
- Save: $14.99
- Price: $134.96
What's in the Box
- AC Adapter
- Battery Charger
- AC Cord
- DC Cord
- 5400mAh Battery Pack
- Wireless Remote Controller with Battery
- Microphone Holder
- Eye Cup
- Shoulder Strap
- P2 Card Driver Installer CD-ROM
- 1 Year Limited Warranty (Extends to Up to 5 Years with Online Registration)
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