Which Video Camera is Best for You?
In the ever-changing, innovative world of video production, making a new camcorder-purchasing decision requires up-to-date knowledge of the latest features available, along with an understanding of tried-and-true technology. Even seasoned professionals will need to take some time to research the myriad choices offered, then carefully determine which camera fits their needs. The specific requirements of wedding videography add another dimension to the process.
Reliability, exceptional video in low-light conditions, and high optical zoom range are some of the more important features you should be looking for when selecting a video camera suitable for wedding coverage. In addition, consider media format, audio inputs and the size and “look” of the camera. A handheld camera might shoot HD video, but will you stand out as a "professional" videographer without a decent-sized camera on your shoulder, or a solid tripod?
As you look over the wide range of cameras, you will, no doubt, be taking your clientele into account. Will you be covering high-end weddings with multiple cameras, are you currently at the entry level or perhaps shooting your very first wedding for a family member? Do you want all the bells and whistles or are you a purist who prefers sticking to the basics and keeping life simple? Ultimately, your list of preferences is unique to your work style and ergonomic requirements. In order to assist you with your decision, we have reviewed a variety of models selected specifically for capturing a couple's wedding-day memories.
Advanced and Intermediate-Level Camcorders
The Sony PXW-X200 is the successor to a perennial favorite—the PMW-200. It records up to 1080p60 video using the efficient XAVC Intra and Long GOP codecs with 4:2:2 10-bit sampling. To fit into existing workflows, MPEG HD422, HD420, and DV recording options are available. Dual SxS memory card slots are provided, while simultaneous recording to two cards is possible for instant data redundancy and backup copies of your files. With 4 channels of high-quality, 48 kHz, 16-bit LPCM, you will have all the audio capabilities needed to cover every element of a wedding weekend. Shooting in low light is no problem with this camcorder. Three Full HD 1/2" Exmor CMOS sensors and a fast maximum aperture (f/1.9 on a Fujinon 17x optical zoom lens) will thrill you with the exceptional video you can capture under the chandeliers, in dimly lit reception halls. Weighing slightly more than five pounds, this camera is heavy enough for stability, yet won’t wear you out during hours of shooting. For a semi-shoulder mounted solution, the Sony PMW-300K1 is also worth considering.
Sony’s PXW-X180 Full HD XDCAM Camcorder features three 1/3" Exmor CMOS sensors. While it won’t reach the low-light capabilities of the larger 1/2" sensors of the PXW-X200, its 25x Sony G zoom lens offers more reach than the PXW-X200. It offers 10-bit 4:2:2 recording in a variety of codecs, with up to 1080p60 available in the XAVC Long GOP codec. Another useful feature is the camcorder’s Wi-Fi remote capability, when paired with the optional Wi-Fi adapter. This is invaluable for the “one-person band” shooting with two or more cameras, as it will let you monitor and control setting remotely using your smartphone or tablet.
JVC produces the GY-HM600 ProHD Camera, another worthy professional-class camera to consider. The HM600 can record up to 1080/59.41i HD video in MOV: H.264, MP4 and AVCHD. The Fujinon zoom lens features an impressive 23x optical zoom ratio. Standard sensitivity is rated for f/11 at 2000 lux for exceptional quality in low light. Two channels of 48 kHz 16-bit audio recording with 2 XLR inputs and a 3.5mm mini jack round out this advanced package.
The GY-HM650 ProHD Mobile News Camera offers the same features as the HM600, but with the addition of Wi-Fi connectivity and FTP server support. This compact camera allows you to record and automatically transmit footage to your home or office, a nifty feature if your editor is standing by for a “day of” presentation at the reception that evening. Like the HM600, the HM650 weighs 5.3 lb, giving you stability on the shoulder without being the heaviest camcorder in this roundup.
Sony’s HXR-NX5U is another solid performer. Its versatility in capturing different formats may fit nicely into your profile as well. Able to record 720/60p video in addition to 60i, 30p and 24p, this camera is versatile and easy to operate. The zoom range gets extremely high marks (20x G-Lens, optimized for advanced image processing) and you can choose to record on Memory Stick or SDHC cards.
If you are looking for a camera that supports both NTSC and PAL standards, Panasonic has built a camera for you to consider: AG-AC160A AVCCAM HD Handheld Camcorder. In today’s marketplace, worldwide compatibility might be an important enough factor to give this camera a closer look. Like many of the other cameras in this category, the AG-AC160A captures video at a variety of frame rates. This capacity allows you to create your own unique “look.” Shooting in 60p and playing back in 24p, for instance, gives you a very smooth slow-motion effect to incorporate into your final product.
If 1080p isn’t enough resolution for you and you’re ready to enter the world of 4K Ultra HD recording, then you may be interested in the Sony PXW-Z100. In today’s marketplace, the ability to record high-resolution images can do wonders for your business. It also makes for a good investment as the industry makes the transition to 4K. The PXW-Z100 utilizes Sony’s XVAC 4:2:2 10-bit intra frame recording format, which is the same found in their digital cinema PMW-F55 CineAlta camera. It can record true 4K (4096x2160) resolution video at up to 50 and 60fps – perfect for capturing those special moments. Of course, you can also record 1080p video if you’re workflow isn’t ready for 4K file sizes. Rounding out the camcorder is a G lens with 20x optical zoom and three control rings, dual XQD memory card slots, and 4K HDMI and 3G/HD-SDI interfaces.
Intermediate and Entry-Level Camcorders
There are a number of camcorders at the entry (and slightly above entry) level that will produce High Definition video and provide professional-quality audio as well.
Beginning with Panasonic’s well-balanced and impressive AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder, the variety of options in this class is surprisingly good. The AG-AC90 looks much like the cameras in the advanced category, yet weighs only 3.3 lb. Since it shoots HD 1080p /1080i and boasts two XLR inputs, this camera does provide you with excellent pictures and sound, especially in optimal conditions. It also features Five-Axis optical image stabilization, which makes for smoother handheld videos.
Innovation is the key word to use when describing Sony’s combination camcorder / projector: the 96GB HXR-NX30 Palm Size NXCAM HD Camcorder with Projector. In addition to the built-in projector, Balanced Optical SteadyShot is the standout feature here. This image-stabilization system isolates the entire optical block from the rest of the camera body for exception results. The built-in projector could be that special standout element you bring to the table. Projecting raw footage on a wall during the reception is just one of the many possibilities you might consider. The HXR-NX30 also has XLR inputs and a 10x optical, 17x extended Carl Zeiss Lens. It has a single 1/2” ExmorR CMOS sensor and an internal 96GB flash memory capacity.
If you are looking for an easy-to-use, entry-level camcorder with a professional look, Sony’s HXR-MC2500 Shoulder Mount AVCHD Camcorder is an excellent choice. It weighs a hefty 6.2 lb, sports a nifty flip-up LCD above the color viewfinder, and has an ergonomic handle with Record button and zoom control for those essential low-angle shots. It has a single 1/4" Exmor R CMOS sensor and is equipped with a built-in LED light to assist in lower-light situations. There is a 3.5mm mini-jack input and a built-in 2-channel stereo shotgun microphone.
The HDR-PJ810V High Definition Handycam Camcorder with Projector is also a versatile and handy little camera/projector. With full HD 1920 x 1080 60p recording capability and a built-in video light, the PJ810V would be an ideal second or third camera to have for covering a wedding, in part because it is so easy to use and complements your package with a very capable projector. It also takes 20 megapixel still pictures (32GB flash storage included). The HDR-PJ710V features a Sony G lens with 12x optical zoom and Balanced Optical SteadyShot image stabilization. Sony’s Tracking Focus function and Intelligent Auto give you the ability to multitask while the camera does the work. The Dolby Digital 5.1 Channel Surround Mic will surprise you with its clarity. In addition, there is a mic input for your wireless unit, and the accessory shoe will hold a small receiver.
As with the advanced and intermediate level options, Sony also offers a 4K consumer camcorder with their FDR-AX100. The 1" Emxor R CMOS sensor is large – approximately 8x larger than typical camcorders. This lets you get some cinematic shots with a pleasing shallow depth of field. What makes the camcorder truly versatile is its recording options, letting you capture 4K Ultra HD 3840x2160 video at 24 and 30 fps, as well as Full HD 1920x1080 video in XAVC S, AVCHD, or web-optimized MP4. Like the HDR-PJ810V, it also features a 12x optical zoom lens and Optical SteadyShot image stabilization. Built-in Wi-Fi with NFC support even lets you use your smartphone or tablet. If you don’t need 4K recording, then consider the nearly identical HDR-CX900 instead.
As you can see from this diverse sampling of excellent camcorders, the variety of file formats, lenses and audio packages can be quite a bit to digest. You will likely see one or two cameras that pique your interest and will serve your clients’ needs as well as your own. When you reach that point, come into our NYC SuperStore, visit us on the Internet for a live chat, or contact us by phone at 1-800-606-6969.
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252 Comments
Hi there, I am trying to find an entry/medium level video recorder to take out on wildlife photography trips especially for using with bears and whales. Will be shooting in low light sunrise and sunset times of the day, and want quality video that is portable and lightweight that can fit in along with my normal photography gear. Just trying to add some quality video to go along with my still photography. Any suggestions? I keep reading reviews and get more confused the more I read.
Hopefully for under $1000. Thanks!
Hello, I am interested in taking videos of nature and landscapes. Can you please suggest video camera that renders colors very well and has good auto focus. Ability to shoot timelapses and slow motion are bonus.
Hi Pooja -
The Sony FDR-AX53 - B&H # SOFDRAX53 (https://bhpho.to/2n7y2Uc) is a palm-sized Handycam camcorder that combines a Zeiss 20x optical zoom lens and a high-sensitivity image sensor to produce crisp and high-quality UHD 4K video. The Exmor R CMOS image sensor supports UHD 4K video capture at 24 or 30 fps using Sony's XAVC S codec and features pixels that are approximately 1.6x larger than the previous model for enhanced performance in all conditions, particularly low-light scenarios. The camcorder also features Sony's Balance Optical SteadyShot image stabilization technology to help produce smooth and stable footage throughout the zoom range. Further enhancements include improved autofocus speed and accuracy, a lower-noise built-in microphone, and a high-speed 1080p 120 fps recording mode to create high-resolution slow-motion content.
Capture 4K still images continuously over an extensive period of time at a selected constant interval from each shot to the next, edit the entire sequence of still images in post-production, and enjoy playback of that series of images as a time-lapse movie.
Hi there! I have a podcast channel on YouTube or much rather, am just starting out with one. I'm looking for a video camera that can do long recordings at a decent 1080p60fps or even 4k (Would be a bonus). I already have 2 Canon cameras for 2 different angles and I just need one more now and I want this new one now to be the main or front angle. Could you guys help point me in the right direction?
Hi Soban -
Record high-resolution 4K video with the compact, black Canon Vixia HF G50 4K Camcorder (B&H # CAHFG50 ). The G50 features a DIGIC DV 6 image processor, an 8-blade circular aperture, 5-axis image stabilization, a 20x optical zoom in 4K, and up to UHD 4K30 resolution.
Product Highlights:
I'm a nature photographer who is interested in doing some video work in the outdoors. (I'm often around rushing water.) Any recommendations for $350 or less?
Hi Karl -
he black JVC Everio GZ-R460BUS Quad Proof HD Camcorder with 40x Optical Zoom (B&H # JVGZR460BUS) records up to 1080p60 HD AVCHD video at bit rates up to 28 Mb/s to SDHC/SDXC media cards, and 1920 x 1080 at up to 24 Mb/s to 4GB of internal memory. Designed with JVC's rugged Quad Proof camera body, the Everio GZ-R460BUS is built to capture your adventures, no matter what the weather. This rugged camcorder is waterproof down to 16', shockproof from falls up to 5', dustproof, and freezeproof down to 14°F. The camera's back-illuminated 2.5MP CMOS sensor uses JVC's Falconbrid image processor to record 1920 x 1080 HD video to SD media cards, or to the 4GB of internal memory storage. Still photos can be captured at 10MP.
The Everio GZ-R460's Konica Minolta HD lens features a 40x optical zoom and 60x digital zoom. Advanced image stabilization (AIS) reduces camera shake when handholding the camera. View while recording and playing back footage on the 3" touchscreen LCD. Image capture features include time-lapse recording, face detection, and special effects like Grainy B&W, Food, and Baby modes. Additional camera features include a rechargeable internal battery lasting up to five hours, a built-in zoom microphone, and 37mm filter compatibility.
Features
I also need help - looking for a 4K (preferably 60FPS) camera that can be controlled via wired remote, and have an HDMI output while recording (any resolution output), preferably with selectable control output (i.e. ability to select "clean HDMI" out or view with camera status). External microphone option would also be really nice.
It seems all the prosumer Sony cameras (AX33, AX53, AX100 at least - not sure of AX700) cuts off all HDMI out while recording in 4K and most Panasonics do not support wired remotes - both options are critical requirements when the camera is mounted on a pole for sports videos. ANY suggestion how to find a video camera (preferably sub $1500) supporting a wired remote AND HDMI out while recording in 4K would be appreciated!
The options are you are looking for are going to be very hard to find in a Consumer Level Camcorder. For 4K60, Clean HDMI while recording 4K and a Wired Remote you will need to look at professional options that will cost a bit more. The Canon XF400 is a great place to start. It supports 4K60 and will output while recording internally. It also has a LANC connection for a wired remote.
Canon XF400 - https://bhpho.to/2F0np0Q
LANC Controller - https://bhpho.to/2imqQ6U
Thanks!
I need some help.....I am a piano teacher and would like to record a video of student piano lessons , showing the sheet music on the piano along with the students hands , simultaneously, having it clear enough to make a video on which you could see the sheet music and piano keys clearly....I have a "handicam" , which does record , but so far away you cannot read the sheet music.... I am making "piano lessons" to put on youtube.....what camera should I purchase??? thanks
Hi Jean -
The Canon VIXIA HF G21 Full HD Camcorder captures 1920 x 1080 Full HD video using a 1/2.84", 2.9MP HD CMOS Pro image sensor, and a 20x optical/400x digital zoom lens. The VIXIA HF G21's impressive low-light performance and wide dynamic range help to reproduce image gradations faithfully, open up shadowed areas, and minimize overblown highlighted areas. Pro-style features include a circular, eight-blade aperture for producing smooth, rounded highlights in out-of-focus areas (otherwise known as "bokeh"). This versatile camcorder records crisp, detailed images with Full HD 1080p60 recording in both MP4 and AVCHD file formats. Share your footage at maximum bit rates of 35 Mb/s in MP4, and 28 Mb/s in AVCHD. For you cinephiles out there, a native 24p mode provides a "film-like" capture rate. Create slow motion effects, or speed up your footage with the VIXIA HF G21's various frame rates including interval recording from 2x to 1200x normal speed.
Canon VIXIA HF G21 Full HD Camcorder B&H # CAHFG21
Add this wide-angle conversion lens:
The Canon WD-H58W Wide Converter Lens for Select Canon Cameras is optically matched to go with the XA10, XA11, XA15, XA20, XA25, XA30, XA35, XF100, XF105, XF200, XF205, HF-G10, G21, G20, and G40 HD camcorders. It can be attached to any lens with a 58mm filter thread. The WD-H58W brings a wider angle of view to your images, and either 0.7x or 0.8x magnification may be printed on the lens. The WD-H58W is a great investment if you're looking to pack more of your subject into the frame, such as when shooting groups of people, small rooms, or wide landscapes.
Canon WD-H58W Wide Converter Lens for Select Canon Cameras B&H # CAWDH58W
Hello,
I need a camcorder to record basketball practices and games in our high school gym. I want to mount one above each goal facing toward the other end of the court. It will be recording an area about 40 ft wide, about 60-70 ft away from a fixed height of about 16 ft. The quality just needs to be ok. Once focused it would just sit there and record as is when turned on. The real issue is that they are permanently fixed to that height so I need to be able to remotely operate them and then they need to download the video to a computer via wi-fi (maybe can get ethernet up to them) and ideally download in real time. Thanks in advance for any help.
It sounds like you need to look at PTZ cameras. These are cameras that can be installed and then controlled for Pan, Tilt and Zoom remotely. The SRG360 from Sony is a great choice and you can even get an IP signal from the video so you can bring it in to a computer.
Sony SRG-360 - https://bhpho.to/2ORzuXZ
Remote - https://bhpho.to/2ptuHmv
Thanks!
Hi,
I'm looking for a camcorder, easy to set-up in variable lighting environment. We will film circus rehearsing for a show creation.. But we may need to send some clips to potential clients! Then the quality must be ok!.. The camera operator is not a pro and then camera should be easy to operate.. We already use a Sony HDR-CX405 but image quality is not good enough for our needs.. Any ideas!?..
The Panasonic HC-V800 will be easy to use and it has a larger 1/2.5" Back-Illuminated MOS Sensor that will give you better results in low light and better picture quality overall. This is a great choice!
https://bhpho.to/2HPtO1G
Thanks!
Thank you!!
Hello,
I currently have a Canon HF20. It is now broke so I need to replace. I am looking for a similar camcorder that plays the videos back to back on the TV like a long movie. I do not want to have to edit to merge each video together. Before, I was just plugging the camcorder into the TV and deleting any scenes that i didn't like later by frame number. Otherwise, the playback was continuous from the SD card. i use the camcorder for family moments/vacations..
I have narrowed it down by the following: The price range is acceptable to me on all of these so that is not an issue. I believe these all have WIFi and some are waterproof. I just can't figure out how to weed them out based on what i am looking to do with the camera. I don't mind paying for bells and whistles as long as it does the main function of continuous video playback with no editing required. Optimal Video/picture Quality is also ideal to preserve the memories.
Thank you,
Confused One
Sony HDR Cx675
Sony HDR Cx455
Sony FDR x3000
Sony HDR AS 300
Sony HDR AS50
Canon HFr82
Canon HFR80
Go Pro Hero 7
Hi Val -
The Canon VIXIA HF G21 Full HD Camcorder B&H # CAHFG21 is the closest match to the Canon HF G20 that you have enjoyed. After that, the Sony HDR-CX675 Full HD Handycam Camcorder with 32GB Internal Memory B&H # SOHDRCX675 would be my best recommendation for you. If a waterproof camcorder is appealing, consider the Canon Vixia HF W11 Waterproof Camcorder B&H # CAHFW11.
Thank you. I also have SD cards that have the videos from the old canon. If I purchase the Panasonic HC-VX870K will I be able to playback my videos on the SD card thru the TV with the Canon SD cards. I wasn't sure since they both take SD cards if any SD card can be placed in the Panasonic fro playback from camcorder to TV?
Hi Val -
Chances are is that this will not work. You will need to offload the files from the memory cards shot on your Canon camera to the computer. To reuse these memory cards, insert them into your new camcorder and reformat or initialize . You can also offload the cars using a USB card reader.
Plug the ImageMate Pro USB 3.0 Reader from SanDisk (B&H # SAIPMCRW) in to your Windows or Mac computer's USB 3.0 port and transfer files to and from SD, microSD, and CompactFlash memory cards. The ImageMate also supports UHS-I, UHS-II, and non-UHS cards along with data transfer rates of up to 500 MB/s so you can exchange files between your computer and flash media card quickly and efficiently.
Hi, Can you please recommend a video camera for me. It is to record children undergoing therapy for clinical reasons. It will be shot in an office room with LED lighting. The sound needs to be decent so happy to get an external mic. 1080p or even 720P would be fine... video does not have to be great quality. It needs to be super easy to use by therapists who are not tech savvy so the method of transferring the files onto a server/file system need to be foolproof and as though your grandma could do it. The initial setup can be done by a tech guru but the ongoing transfer needs to be easy. a good wifi system would be great Looking at a low budget of $300-400 or thereabouts - but happy to pay more if there is a very good system for us. Thanks!!!
The Canon Vixia R82 is a great choice. It will be easy to use, but give you great results. It has WiFi and it is right in your price range.
https://bhpho.to/2GzO0Qs
Thanks!
Hello Please recommend me a good video camera for my church relay purpose. Which is ideal for relay from both HDMI or HD-SDI ???? please suggest me soon because we need to buy in a week or two.
The Canon XA15 has both an SDI and HDMI output, along with a 20x zoom lens. This is a great choice for churches.
https://bhpho.to/2NE15hS
Thanks!
Need recommendation for a good camera with awesome stabilization with a wider than 24mm eqv focal length. Mainly for quality family video. I don't want to use a gimbal.
I know you mentioned not wanting to use a gimbal, but the Osmo Pocket might be your best bet. It is very small, smaller than most camcorders including the built-in gimbal. The field of view of the lens is around the 24mm range you mentioned, great stabilization and awesome 4K quality.
https://bhpho.to/2RyG6vH
Thanks!
I have $500 to spend on a video camera for our high school. I am looking for something to record faculty meetings, theater and choir performances, events in our gymnasium, etc. Any suggestions? Thank so much for your help!
The Panasonic HC-V770K is a great choice in your budget range. It has a 1/2.3" Back-Illuminated Sensor and a 20x zoom. It will get you fantastic HD quality footage of any event shot at the High School.
https://bhpho.to/2kp88eQ
Thanks!
My primary video camera for documentaries is the Canon 5d Mark IV. I'd like to find a very compact solution for on-the-go video to complement this camera, one that is not imposing, and with good audio. Compact is important, and I want to use the footage in conjunction with video from Mark IV. I looked at the Canon Vixia HF R800 and the Rode VideoMicro Compact mic on a cold-shoe grip, until I realized that this camcorder will not support phantom power. I appreciate any advice, suggestions.
The Vixia R800 is going to be one of the most compact options from Canon. It seems like it is the perfect option in your case. Rather than look for a new camcorder, my suggestion is to look for a microphone which is battery powered. The Saramonic SR-M3 Mini Direction Condenser Microphone with Integrated Shockmount, B&H # SASRM3, and the Polsen VM-180M DSLR/Video Microphone, B&H # POVM180M, are both great alternatives.
https://bhpho.to/2KoFXIy
https://bhpho.to/2ou9Riy
Thanks!
Thank you!! This is helpful. Can you also point me to a gimbal that will work well with this setup? It would need to be able to hold the microphone and camera while being somewhat compact and easy to use.
Many thanks.
The Ikan DS2-A is a great choice for a gimbal to balance a small camcorder, B&H # IKDS2A .
https://bhpho.to/2zKxcDj
Thanks again!
Looking for a recommendation- In need of a camera to film live dance performances in theater setting. Will be a static shot, unmanned. Depending on venue, camera will at times need to be set up somewhat close to the stage, so will need something with a wide angle. Looking for videos to look as professional as possible with this "set it and forget it" set up. Thanks for any help!
Hi Anne:
The Canon XA11 Full HD Camcorder is a compact run-and-gun camera that is suitable for ENG, event coverage, and independent and documentary filmmaking. The camera features a 1/2.84", 1920 x 1080 CMOS sensor that captures video at various frame rates up to 59.94p, including a 24p mode for a more cinematic feel. The integrated Canon 20x HD optical zoom lens has a 35mm equivalent zoom range of 26.8 to 576mm, and features an 8-bladed iris to render highlights in a more natural manner.
The final piece in the image chain is Canon's Digic DV 4 image processor. This high-speed image-processing engine powers Canon's Dynamic IS (Image Stabilization) mode reducing image distortion over traditional up-down, left-right image stabilization by adding correction for camera roll in three axes. The power of the Digic DV 4 allows the camera to simultaneously encode your video to two different codecs and bit rates, allowing you to have web-ready versions of your master footage available as soon as you stop recording.
The Canon WD-H58W Wide Converter Lens for Select Canon Cameras is optically matched to go with the XA10, XA11, XA15, XA20, XA25, XA30, XA35, XF100, XF105, XF200, XF205, HF-G10, G21, G20, and G40 HD camcorders. It can be attached to any lens with a 58mm filter thread. The WD-H58W brings a wider angle of view to your images, and either 0.7x or 0.8x magnification may be printed on the lens. The WD-H58W is a great investment if you're looking to pack more of your subject into the frame, such as when shooting groups of people, small rooms, or wide landscapes.
I want to video our high school band on the football field, but I can't ever get the whole band on the screen. Is there a camcorder that will cover the length of a football field, so that I can video the formations that our band makes without cutting part of it off?
thanks!
Hi Kathy -
The Canon VIXIA HF G40 Full HD Camcorder records 1920 x 1080p Full HD video at 60 fps in MP4 format. The HF G40 is equipped with a Genuine Canon 20x HD Video Lens and a manual focus ring that can easily be set to control the zoom instead. The camera supports Wide DR gamma and Highlight Priority mode for improved image clarity. Assignable buttons and full manual control allows you to customize the shooting experience and take control of your image.
And this accessory lens:
The MW-4558 58mm HD 0.45x Wide Angle Conversion Lens from Helder provides 0.45x magnification to any 58mm lens, for wide-angle shooting. Whether you're shooting landscapes or working in tight spaces the MW-4558 opens up the scene and allows you to get more into your frame. Attach the conversion lens to the 58mm front thread on your lens and start shooting. You can even attach 82mm filters onto the front lens mount for added protection and image quality.
Hi!
I want a video camcorder/camera for wedding purposes. Is Sony PXW-X70 will suite my projects?
The PXW-X70 is a fantastic option to shoot weddings with. It is small and lightweight, but delivers an outstanding image. It also has a 1" sensor that will perform well in lower light.
https://bhpho.to/2bo8tuv
Thanks!
Hi, I was hoping for some advice if possible. I've been trying to film dance classes that take part in the dark, lit by disco lighting, where large groups of participants all have glow sticks in their hands. Lots of movement, flashing multi-coloured lights, in the dark. My iPhone X and a few paid apps do an OK job, but I need to increase the exposure and it's very grainy. If captured right, it would make for fantastic footage. Any recommendations for a more professional production? Thanks, Steven
The Sony NX80 is a really great choice to consider. It has a 1" Stacked Sensor for a solid low light performance, fast Phase-Detection Autofocus and it can record UHD 4K for fantastic quality. It is also small and compact, which comes in handy in tight places.
https://bhpho.to/2C6XmUU
Thanks!
Looking for a recommendation for camcorder to record motorsports in the night time with very fast movements. Needs to be simple to use but mostly able to keep a clear photo with zoom speed. Thank you!
The Canon XF400 is a great choice. It has a 1" sensor for a strong low light performance, 15x zoom and it used Canon's Dual Pixel CMOS Autofocus technology. It will capture fast moving motorsports very well.
https://bhpho.to/2F0np0Q
Thanks!
Looking for recommendations for a camera to set in the back of an auditorium to record choir concerts. Would be unmanned. House lights would be low with stage lights on. What do you think?
If you are looking for a professional camcorder that will give you XLR connections, that way you could potentially tap in to a feed fromt he sound board when recording choir concerts, the Canon XA11 is a great option to start off with. You mentioned keeping it wide, but if need be these also has a 20x zoom to get close to the action if needed.
https://bhpho.to/2lnK2B6
If having XLR inputs is not that important to you, you could look at consumer options instead. The Panasonic HC-V770K is a great choice that will give you great quality. It also has a 20x zoom if you ever needed to get in closer to the action.
https://bhpho.to/2kp88eQ
Thanks!
I currently have a Canon XH-A1 3CCD HDV Camcorder that I bought years ago.. I like the camera but want to find a way to A)trade in on a 4K camera or B) find a way to bypass the tape and get a digital output to lessen my production time. Help?
The Datavideo DN-60 allows you to capture HDV or DV footage directly to a Compact Flash Card with cameras that have a Firewire output like the XH-A1.
https://bhpho.to/2heCuMU
We also have a Used Department that accepts Trade-Ins. Here is a link to their page.
https://bhpho.to/2cWlv53
Thanks!
Hello, I am with a Junior A Sports team and am looking into upgrading our old Standard Definition Camcorder. The venue is a 3000 Seat multi-purpose venue I need a minimum of 30x Zoom and need 1080P 60fps MINIMUM and need the camera to not go above F5 At Max Zoom. Budget is $3000 CAD Anything lower of within $350 more than the budget is ok it also needs to be able to use a Varizoom Zoom rocker. Outputs and inputs needed are: XLR Audio Input , HDMI And SDI Output
Also needs to be good in low light and 25x zoom is also ok.
Hi Brayden -
The recommendation above is as close as I can offer near your stated budget range.
Hi Brayden -
The Canon XF405 Camcorder (https://bhpho.to/2Bf0mcR) is a compact, ergonomic camera featuring UHD 4K capture, a 1" CMOS sensor, and two XLR audio inputs. The XF405's optics include an integrated 15x HD optical zoom with up to 30x Advanced Zoom, a nine-bladed iris for more natural highlights, and five-axis optical image stabilization. Pro-style features include Dual-Pixel Autofocus (DPAF), and dual DIGIC DV 6 image processors with high sensitivity and low noise, supporting Wide DR Gamma.
The camera records Full HD 1080p and UHD 4K up to 60 fps—captured to dual SD card slots—and outputs via HDMI 2.0 and 3G-SDI ports. On the audio side, the XF405 features four channels of audio with manual/automatic recording levels, and two XLR inputs. Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to control the camera's functions via browser and transfer proxy files. Camera control is also available using the included WL-D89 remote. XF-AVC UHD 4K 60p Long GOP recording is scheduled to be available through a firmware update in 2018.