Thanks to several people for pointing out that I was totally wrong and the Sony XD Cam DOES have a built-in ND filter. I have absolutely no idea how I missed this over the course of two months, but I did. The switch can clearly be seen at 15:36 next to the battery on the back of the camera. The good news is that this makes the camcorder even better! As I said in the video, this isn't a review of this specific camcorder, but rather a look at modern camcorders in general. I wish I would've done a better job in being aware of the ND option, but I also don't want to get too bogged down in the specifics of any one camcorder model for this video.

@bobuk5722

Жыл бұрын

Hi Tom, well, most people would expect the ND selector to be just behind the lens controls. With motorised ND it can be placed anywhere and I guess Sony thought that at the back made it more visible. It's down to expectation, if things are not where expected they can easily get overlooked.

@fanjan7527

Жыл бұрын

Here is a old, FF camcorder that could be a fun experiment: Sony NEX-VG900

@WineWorldTV

Жыл бұрын

OK, I was pretty sure it did, but I thought I was mistaken.

@Raydamick

Жыл бұрын

You have missed something else aswel, this camera does have nightshot however it only works with all settings set to auto

@tor2919

Жыл бұрын

Like how could you possibly miss that switch? It’s a clearly labelled analog proper switch?

The camcorder form factor is the most versatile setup for many workflows. Especially multicam and live situations and sports. The integrated lense and XLR inputs make it very useful in those situations. And for b-roll it can be extremely useful. There is definitely a benefit to having everything integrated and running from a single battery. So much to like about it. It is definitely not “cool” - but who really cares about that.

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

I definitely think it might be time to reconsider what “cool” is because these things have so much to offer! Like you said, they make multicam situations a dream.

@FishersTigerBand-IN

Жыл бұрын

@@tombuck Agree completely. I have a Panasonic UX180 and DVX200 and when shooters use them they tend to really like them. The full integrated system solves so many problems. And the zoom length on them is insane.

@TomSidProductions

Жыл бұрын

Small sensors, better automated functions, everything is more in focus. It's just easier to use for most people.

@WarriorsPhoto

Жыл бұрын

I care about effective and that they are.

@generalgrafx

Жыл бұрын

For shooting sports I’d rather use a larger format camcorder. For most sports actions the zoom on smaller camcorders is too slow and the camera does not have enough mass for smooth pans and tilts.

Ive never understood the obsession with blurry backgrounds on youtube. I want to see all the cool posters and knivk knacks and shit in your room! It adds character and ambience to a youtubers usual recording space.

@LungsMcGee

3 ай бұрын

It's simple really. We all have our own preferences, and tend to avoid that which we don't care for. It's an element of being.

@fucknancygrace

2 ай бұрын

@@LungsMcGee Ehh, I think it's more nuanced than that.

@LungsMcGee

2 ай бұрын

@@fucknancygrace Nuanced has fuck all to do with it. Either you like it or you don't. Nuanced or not. Simples.

@hiteck007

2 ай бұрын

Exactly why I bought a decent camcorder, my second one in fact.

Dude... in 1985 I was a US Army Combat Photographer stationed in South Korea, documenting the Peace talks between SK and NK on the DMZ. Then I went into portrait work and from there, video..... which you here have brought back memories...

It’s funny to see this video. I live in Japan and the Japanese tend to use camcorders a lot, especially at school events. I questioned why they still are using them until I looked the specs and decided to order one. It’s been one of my best purchases.

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

I definitely miss seeing people using camcorders at events and in trips and stuff. Glad Japan is keeping it alive!

@coscorrodrift

Жыл бұрын

Interesting observation! Maybe i'm trippin balls but being half japanese i see maybe a cultural thing to it, Japanese culture seems more oriented to what this camcorder does best, capturing the environment without a lot of separation of the subject from the background, less of a "vloggy" style, and more general B-roll type shot. Not saying there are no Japanese vloggers or anything like that, more than the archetypes of "tourist that buys a videocamera to record his/her trip" / "ojiisan that buys a camera to film his grandkids doin stuff" / "hobbyist that wants to record their hobby" fit more to the camcorder type than the DSLR type.

@emilholmgrenmusic

Жыл бұрын

What model did you end up getting? I replaced a Sony FDR-AX33 with the Panasonic HC-VXF1 recently, but I might be trying out the Sony FDR-AX53 as well 🙈

@TokyoXtreme

Жыл бұрын

I’m still rocking my Sony DCR-TRV9, which uses mini-DV tapes. I have modern equipment as well, but the unit has a nice lens and is fantastic when paired with a Rode video mic. Wonderful ergonomics and a bit of a nostalgic vibe; you can even attach a PS2 and use the monitor for gaming.

@hatasmuveletinspiracio

Жыл бұрын

Camcorders don't overheat.

I’m really quite sad camcorders haven’t continued to evolve. I built my channel in the early years on a Sony camcorder and miss it dearly. The freedom and flexibility of insane zoom, crazy good stabilization, etc. The lack of shallow DOF and a few other issues, I ventured to a7s3. If Casey Neistat switched to a camcorder, I bet these companies would start developing them again.

@SVInLikeFlynn

Жыл бұрын

The majority and best of Neistat Brothers videos were shot on camcorders, it’s all about their amazing story telling!

@weeardguy

Жыл бұрын

Wow, darn, really, go look up camcorders then. They have evolved so much... there are even smaller-size camcorders that have interchangeable lenses (JVC LS-300 from my bare head). Though I'm not a fan of the MFT mount on the thing because lenses with quick motorzoom just don't exist (and motorzoom lenses in the MFT-world are already very rare) ánd you are still stuck with the lack of the allround-capabilities of fixed lenses on camcorders, it has a far bigger sensor than most lower grade camcorders. Canon leads the way for huge sensors on camcorders as far as I know. And for motion stabilisation: Sony has ABSOLUTELY understood how to do that. The PXW-Z70 (if I remember it right) my sister once had to try out, could produce extremely steady image, even so steady that when she showed me the footage, I thought she had used a steadicam-solution of some kind. Same goes for focus-peaking: if there's one manufacturer that knows how to provide CLEAR focus-peaking on an LCD-screen, it's Sony. Blackmagic does a good job as well, but the Sony is absolutely the best. Ever since I switched from a tube-viewfinder camera (yep, black and white only) on a broadcast camera (thus manual focus) to LCD-viewfinders and LCD-screens on the same kind of equipment, focus has never been so hard: JVC just does not understand how to provide clear focus peaking and I usually have to resort to using focus-assist (which creates coloured hues around the points in focus, but turns the total image to black and white) And mind you, those are 1/3 inch sensor cameras, where depth of field is less of a thing and being out of focus doesn't produce such horrible blur as it does on larger sensor camera's. Even though I usually have trouble finding focus, even when zoomed in at 18 times.

@justabreeze460

Жыл бұрын

@@weeardguy that’s a lot to read, so I won’t. But I feel people expect camcorders to be cheaper because the good ones are a bit pricy. You can get a very nice dslr or mirrorless camera for the same price, and they’re capable of doing more. Most people only want camcorders for the convenient zoom and everyday life.

@a.duncan4790

Жыл бұрын

I'm more sad that mirrorless haven't evolved to be more like a video camera! Instead of having to buy countless add-ons

@weeardguy

Жыл бұрын

@@justabreeze460 Well, I still don't agree on the fact that DSLR or mirrorless can do much more for the same price, because.... well, they just can't. They lack a substantial-capacity battery, which isn't weird, because it is pushed inside the camera, restricting the physical size of the battery, where these are always protruding somewhere on camcorders, usually enabling different capacity batteries for longer runtimes than the standard battery that usually comes with 'em. And than the lens: you just won't find the super-allrounders as on camcorders in photography-land ánd in photography-land they are hardly ever parfocal (ofcourse, there are lenses aimed at videography that are parfocal, but these are also substantially more expensive) The ergonomics, batterylife, lack of connections, lack of motorzoom are something I regularly see mentioned in a group of video-dudes as a problem amongst the people who don't dare to look at camcorders anymore: the first thing they nag about is battery-life, than they start nagging about ergonomics 'Darn... with the monitor on top of it this thing becomes a pain to hold after 5 to 10 minutes', than they want a top-handle because the camera doesn't have one (while every camcorder in the same price-range comes with one, period) and then they buy some professional mic, but hey, their photocamera only has a mini-jack input, which also does not support phantom-power (where every camcorder has XLR-inputs that do provide phantom power). Than the motorzoom and focus: rings and external motors are then bought to control these as powerzoom and such... you'll find all this already on the slightly bigger camcorders and especially motorzoom is a standard feature on every camcorder. For all this, they buy shitloads of accesoires to turn that photocamera-used-as-videocamera basically into a camcorder, spending thousands of dollars/euros extra on the thing than they would if they would just have bought a camcorder. And then I haven't even talked about the bigger models out there, that feature at least 1 D-tap connection on the batteryplate, for connection of accessories. Just a simple cable is enough to take care of that and if you're a bit handy, you just convert your battery-plate to 2 D-taps for hardly any money and you can power two accessories. Really. Camcorders have evolved and most of those in the price-range of the average DSLR/mirrorless camera-body provide you with the same options to buy S-Log V-log and whatnots-unlocks and give you in-depth gamma and knee-control, and all those other things you find on DSLR/mirrorless cameras. I will stick to camcorders, because photocameras just lack too much flexibility.

Tom, I used to repair camcorders in the 80's and 90's. You mentioned "parfocal" lenses on camcorders. There are actually 2 different meaning to that term. A traditional camcorder lens was parfocal in that the lens elements for focus and zoom were separate, so that when you moved the zoom lenses it stayed in focus. In the early 90's, a lot of manufacturers switched to a new system that used fewer and lighter lens elements so that the zoom lenses affected the focus, and had to move the focus lens during zoom to keep it in focus which was determined electronically on a predetermined curve. So technically, they no longer used parfocal lenses. They could only stay in focus due to being motor driven. If your lens has a focal distance scale on it, it's a traditional parfocal lens. If it's buried, and only motor driven, it's probably the later version.

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for this insight Mark! It's fascinating.

@KunnuKumar-be9ju

10 ай бұрын

@@tombuck hii sir. I have a question solve it. How did camera people write titles in films whn there was not or no computer in old times. How did people write titles whn computer was not invented for example. Abcdx studio presents. Ship in the river.::"" How will they write titles.

@kimberleemodel7182

8 ай бұрын

@@KunnuKumar-be9ju they would put a transparency with the title over a frame of the video, duplicate it, and then move to the next frame. That's why you can see the title vibrate a bit in like old westerns.

@kevinglennon2370

2 ай бұрын

Hey Mark! I am hoping that you or someone on this thread can help me? I have a massive box of very valuable family MiniDV tapes my sister has dropped on me to to transfer to digital media. No camera. I have looked at buying a MiniDV tape deck, however, they are very expensive! Is it possible to use a higher resolution camera 1080 (HD) MiniDV camera to transfer 480 dpi MiniDV tapes to my Mac? Would that work?

@markc2643

2 ай бұрын

@@kevinglennon2370If it is backwards compatible. I don't have experience with the later HD models, so not sure if they have that function.

I have a Sony camcorder very very similar to the one you show, and it DOES have infrared night vision and it has a built-in ND (3 levels), so I'd be very surprised to find that yours does not. The way I can ease in and out of zooms is much appreciated. It is also much easier to hold when shooting video than a stills camera.

@hawk3r244

5 күн бұрын

Hello Tanks you for précisions Which one do you have ? Thank you

I went through this a couple years ago trying to figure out why every KZreadr was recommending photography cameras. I had always used camcorders growing up. And I came to the same conclusion that you did; image quality is so much better at an affordable price point.

@mrwashur1991

Жыл бұрын

Yeah but they could just put it in the camcorder form factor. It’s why cinema cameras often follow the box form factor. I thinks it more to do with wanting the hybrid aspect of photos and video.

@jacopoabbruscato9271

Жыл бұрын

@@mrwashur1991 I just wish BlackMagic built a camera with the insides of the current 4k/6k but in a box form factor. It would be so much better for rigging and versatility.

@PWingert1966

Жыл бұрын

Evan a base Pro video camera like a Canon C100 is $CDN3100 and then a lens is another $CDN3100 add tax and you are in for about $CDN7000 to a get a pro level starter video setup with interchangeable lens's and that's with one lens! I can probably do a R6 and a lens for that and maybe get another lens if I can find a refurb.

@PostingCringeOnMain

Жыл бұрын

I think it's a price/performance situation. Video cameras in the 'semi pro' range, with an f2.8 lens, XLR audio inputs etc is still going to run you more than mid range dSLR/mirrorless and a rode shotgun mic mounted in the hotshoe and the stills camera/lens used market is pretty vibrant so you can get something used really cheaply, or, if your youtube career doesnt take off then you can resell the dslr/mirrorless and lens for more than you could a used video camera. That said - for established creators who have careers in video, I'm surprised more of them don't have camcorders, but I can see why they don't recommend them as a first camera to get started with.

@PWingert1966

Жыл бұрын

@@PostingCringeOnMain I'm thinking about a camcorder for casual street video and a few occasional KZread videos. It might be a better investment than mirrorless cameras and the associated lenses from Canon. Getting mirrorless here in Canada with an 85 less is between 5 and ten thousand $CDN and I think I can do a camcorder for far less than that. But I need better performance than my iPhone 13 Pro can give me.

Ever since DSLRs started recording videos, more focus was put on making them achieve the function of camcorders. First it was about achieving 30, 24, and 60 fps. Then they had to include autofocus on their lenses that worked with video modes and create new motors of smoother fluid autofocus control. They needed to add on additional ports for connecting to monitors, audio jacks, and power. They needed to start including image stabilization which worked actively in video mode. And later they had to add on different monitoring features like waveform monitors, RGB parades, and other interfaces. Also, they needed to add in video color profiles such as LOG and REC 709, REC 2020 for better color and contrast control. More lenes had to be created specifically designed to work with video features such as power zooming and quiet smooth aperture adjustments. The handle grip is still a rangefinder style handle rather than an underhand rest and ND filters are usually placed in front of most lenses. And now, after all these years the 2 types are very similar. Cameras have their advantage for having customizability of lenses, attachments, and hybrid capability of taking great photos as well. Their low light performance due to larger sensor sizes as well and shallower depth of field attracts more attention. And versatility can be achieved through purchasing of more versatile lenses for those specific situations. But probably the largest factor in my opinion that drives people towards these is the community of users and designers. There are more tutorials, recommendations, articles, and guides about using a camera (typically of these styles rather than a camcorder.) And when more new creators get their first camera, they pick the one that they feel they will get more support and recommendation from. However, camcorders (not cinema cameras) do still have their place still. They are a one size integrated solution. That's because of their unique body design. It's all about the body. Mirrorless cameras can outperform these camcorders now for picture quality, low light performance, and weight. But camcorders have everything built to work together with minimal need to setup or put a rig together. The microphone setup, handles, shoulder straps, XLR inputs, cooling functions, and power managements are designed to work seamlessly together for long recording sessions. Access to your controls is usually present with buttons located right on the camera for instant access and can be changed during recording. You can achieve a similar workflow with a camera, but you may need to buy all the necessary parts to make it work similarly as well as rig it all together. Though you still may be missing a few features like waveform monitors, ND filters, broadcast delivery functions, timecode generators, depending on the camera. When you buy a camcorder, you are buying a bundle of devices that work together for a well-rounded video focused system. Rather than a single piece. Cinema cameras are like mirrorless cameras, but more expensive and focused on customizable video capabilities. Camcorders are best for their simplicity and reliability for capturing videos. You have decent functionality for more use cases and some changes can still be made with easy integration. The form factor is also designed for long constant recordings, making quick changes while recording. Which means they are better built for continuous recoding while swapping batteries, media, microphones, preventing overheating, and on the fly changes (usually without digging deep into the menu settings. That's their biggest strength over mirrorless cameras. You may not have as much creative control, but for run and gun situations, where time and speed is crucial, they are a great tool to have, since the setup is kept to a minimal.

@adamkormendi5904

Жыл бұрын

There is one more advantage for the camcorder: its zoom range. With a mirrorless you simply cannot compete with the integrated 12-24x zoom.

@fletzyproductions1190

Жыл бұрын

Camcorders have had interchangeable lenses for a while now

@DRIVECLUBistimelessPS4

7 ай бұрын

you reckon a new boom for camcorders should come around ? we need them back with packed newest features .

Something else to mention: Batteries are much easier to change. The battery is mounted externally at the back whereas photo cameras will use a battery in the grip. This means that on camcorders, you can use larger batteries and swap them more easily. You also get the anti-rotation pin so the camcorder doesn't spin on a tripod.

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

You’re totally right, that’s a HUGE advantage!

@JohnnylMr

Жыл бұрын

Are you related to Dov?

I still use 2 camcorders to this day for my wedding capture. They are the last backup resort when filming ceremonies and entire reception events. They are absolute workhorses and have been extremely reliable when capturing moments in a wedding. They are placed high-up on very high light stands and act like "security cameras" in my opinion. I only cut to my camcorders when there are shaky shots/transition shots/failed shots from my A, B, or C cameras, but I at least know they are recording reliably every time. It gives me peace of mind that my camcorders are recording the wide angle of a space or venue and I make sure to hit record on those cameras first before I turn on my A, B, or C cameras. Thanks for the nostalgia on all those old school cameras. That is what I grew up on - VHS, Super 8mm, Mini-DV - and now I have the FX3 and FX30. I appreciate your vids and now I just subscribed!

@romans1227

Жыл бұрын

Do you run all cameras by yourself? I used to film weddings and other events. I guess I didn't have the passion or customer service for that.

@firstandlastproductionsllc

Жыл бұрын

@@romans1227 No, I shoot with a 2nd shooter.

I've been using the exact Sony camcorder for the last couple of months and it's been really nice to not have to worry about getting the perfect combination of mirrorless camera and lens, and having to mess around with accessories. Really surprised how much I like it

I remember my friends and I desperately wanting a GL2, it’s amazing how much video cameras have improved over time.

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

Oh definitely! I was lucky enough to find a nearly-new GL2 on eBay last year and it's so much fun. Still a really awesome camera, honestly.

@deekusucks

Жыл бұрын

Found myself an XM2 (the European market version) off eBay for around 200 bucks in pristine condition last year and it's a really fun camera to use for lo-fi stuff, especially with a fisheye lens. I'm not a huge fan of how the footage looks in bright natural light (like a sunny day with no clouds in sight), but if you toss a light panel on it and shoot something in the dark, the footage looks super cool. I've shot a few music videos like that and I'm super happy with how they've turned out. Great for that rough, gritty, underground feel.

@FreeAndRadical

7 ай бұрын

i remember when the vx1000 was the holy grail! I had the TRV-900 which was also absolutely amazing in a much smaller form factor

As a videojournalist for a newspaper I use the Sony XD Z-150 for video, it's an amazing piece of tool and I was shocked myself. 2x XLR outputs, 3 different ND filters and adjust for sound and manual settings on top of that. And that is just top of the iceberg. I would have to spend 2000 dollar to get the same on my A7III

@walkingmanvideo9455

6 ай бұрын

But your a7iii heats up, has limited record time and very prone to sensor dust spots which ruin and make footage look very un-professional.

@okmedialive

6 ай бұрын

@@walkingmanvideo9455 I have never had my Sony heat up, ever. I also run a Sony A5100 as a streaming camera, and it's been on for years. My A7III has never had any issues wether in cold or warm environments. Getting the dust on a sensor is a thing that happens to every camera if you decide to have it open in a dirty environment

Tom you've absolutely nailed it! I really like the new style, bringing your own personality even more into the video. From someone who shoots with a NX80, ZV-E10 and a DJI Mini Pro 3 editing all together it's good for people to understand the pros and cons of each and when each might have a role. Having the view from the side of the usual table makes it feel more like an educational chat with an old friend, and as always excellent b roll and demo shots. Love to see you're still exploring new styles, keeps it fresh!

Also- hope you're feeling better. And the vibe I got from this & recent videos is- side table for objective/ product in hand shots, main table for subjective & overview shots. LOVE the retro, EposVox-esque cut scenes!

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

Oooh, I like that! I did like how the "in-hand" product stuff looked on the side table with the wide lens.

Great stuff! I am a wedding videographer and I have a Canon XA50. While it mostly serves as a fourth angle camera, it still blows my mind how many people do not have this in their workflow. Incredibly clutch for ceremonies, as it will run & run. It stays in my camera bag after most ceremonies and doesn’t get much use in low light conditions but it’s an amazing camera for all of the features that come along with it. Again, great video, I enjoyed this very much! New sub!

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

I didn't even think of how helpful a camcorder would be for something like a wedding, especially as a 3rd or 4th angle like you said. Brilliant!

@moorememoriesvideo7070

Жыл бұрын

@@tombuck yes, it’s been great. On days with sun & clouds I can set to auto exposure and have that safe angle too!

@martinXY

Жыл бұрын

Set it wide, auto this, auto that, press record and you are set.

@chronocross85

Жыл бұрын

is the footage from it hard to color grade?

@moorememoriesvideo7070

Жыл бұрын

@@chronocross85 with my XA50, it puts out 8bit footage so it’s not great to grade. I like to shoot straight out of camera since that’s about as good as it’s going to get

The Sony z90v does have night shot, but you have to shoot in auto by flipping up the physical switch on the back. And also did you say that your z90v doesn’t have built-in ND’s? Because it definitely does, that is also another physical switch on the back.

@ezkymos

Жыл бұрын

I wanted to buy it but couldn't find it anywhere for 6 months. Big bruh against Sony.

@davidfrisken1617

Жыл бұрын

The channel owner seems very new to the whole video thing so give him some slack as a learner.

@carlitotheman

Жыл бұрын

crazy u here

@bjarkenielsen8515

Жыл бұрын

I corfirm the built-in ND-filters on this camcorder. The is a flip-up swithch in the back,- to the left that activates them.

I grew up using so many Video8, Hi8, Digital8, & Mini DV camcorders. My first dip into HD video was still on Mini DV tape, but with the HDV format! Had the Sony HC5 & HC9. Then finally started to get into flash based camcorders with the CX550V and then finally the Sony AX100 which I still use often along with my AX53!

@chrislauterbach8856

10 ай бұрын

I followed a similar path, except that I am still using my AX33. Like your 53 they both have that internal gimbal. It makes run and gun video so much steadier. No that there are more used AX700s available, that is where I am looking next.

Thanks for the video. I use a Canon XF400 for live TV connections and for situations with a lot of action, demonstrations, conflicts... Each camera has its specific use.

Hi Tom, the thing about camcorders at a base level is that they were designed for family use. So you go from Australia with the kids when they were little to Disneyland, Universal Studios, San Diago Zoo etc... you want the background in full focus, not blurred. Adjusting settings was secondary. So if you understand the design for purpose limitations and work within them then you should expect the results you get and be happy with that. I think camcorders no matter how sophisticated still maintain this premise. Having said that. Mirrorless cameras...wow. I guess I am saying use each to their best advantage that is fit for purpose and you can't go wrong. A thoroughly enjoyable vid, mate.

Hi Tom A few months back I sort of downsized and started doing stuff on my own. As I was scouring the net prior to ordering some stuff, I came across your channel, and some of your videos did help me immensely - thank you for doing this! As for camcorders, here’s another point of view: The biggest strength of the camcorder platform for us, has always been its ability to output a finished product at the end of recording, or even during; as you yourself said, this is what makes them ideal for live productions. What makes this possible is the audio inputs, isn’t it? We too used mirrorless and DSLRs for our productions, but after a while we got sick of the workflow and tried out camcorders, and we never went back! And here’s something else we noticed; every time the audio was sent via the Rodecaster (Version 01) there was a little lag which disappeared when the mics were directly connected or when mixing was done via an analogue mixer. It was not perceptible to the ‘uninitiated’ and wasn’t something that couldn’t be fixed in post with a few clicks. Your studio is well lit, (and, very pleasing to look at as well) and the environment seems to be well controlled. So, don’t you think a modern camcorder might cut down your production time at least by 10 -20%? Either way please keep on making these videos - and thanks again for producing useful content is a very palatable way - your stuff really cut through the clutter!

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

This is a great point! I think for me, especially when it comes to audio, the FX3 has been a total game changer (but that could be because it has the same audio inputs as a camcorder 😁).

@tor2919

Жыл бұрын

This. I use the FX3 privately but at work, which is ENG work, the Sony camcorder walks all over the FX3. Also worth mentioning is that the camcorder has connector for transmitting live via broadcast backpack to the studio. But practical professional features get very little airtime on KZread usually. Incredible focal length range with power zoom is huge too.

I sold my 5D Mkii in 2019, and spent most of 2020 using a Sony AX700 camcorder. I bought it because I was really interested in the single lens set up, and optimized video ergonomics. I was going through a minimalist phase back then lol. It was a really interesting time in my camera journey because I did a lot of experimentation. Somethings became more visibly apparent to me, like lens compression and the strengths of ND. Learned more about stuff I hadn't even known about or paid attention to like file compression, audio levels, picture profiles, log curves, and even image noise. I loved the wide range of focal lengths, the fast autofocus (because everything was pretty much in focus), unlimited record time, no overheating, long battery life, and the smooth zoom. I ended up selling it because it was too specific of a tool, and I thought something hybrid was more up my alley, so then came along Fujifilm, which is a whole other story. Suffice to say, the camcorder is a great tool to really learn about the various parts of making a video. It's the kind of experience that leans more on the extreme end of a spectrum, kind of like how full frame or medium format is on the opposite end. APS-C is what I learned on since my personal camera was that format, and I got used to seeing Micro Four Thirds because that's the era I was watching in. Those formats are somewhat similar to me, and the differences are like watching films shot with 16mm and 35mm stock, which I feel like film buffs might only be keen on perceiving since the differences are so niche. If I had the money now, I would definitely invest in a camcorder that started at 24mm, and ended anywhere between 300mm to 600mm (full frame equivalent). The Panasonic HC-X1000 series is one that I'm referring to at the moment. That range would be absolutely exciting for the natural history and outdoor adventure work I'm doing these days. There definitely still is a place for the professional use of camcorders--Brave Wilderness channel regularly shoots with Canon's XF camcorder series (the XF705 is the dream camcorder for me), and I've seen a lot of local sports productions that utilize multiple camcorder setups from both Sony and Panasonic. I loved this video. It's one I wish I saw during my research on what format to buy into a few years ago. I think I would have been more steadfast in my camcorder decision and bought the one I wanted today. I probably would have simply gotten a new lens for my Sony NEX-5 for everyday photographs. Thanks for the edutainment!

I used Camcorders all through college myself. I don't mind them, but I think it really is the lens interchangeability that does it these days for the mirrorless dominance. However that seems to be more because of the trendy lenses that youtubers recommend and such. I know for me I like to have a particular look and especially lately I have been expanding creatively into other lensing options, and I have a justified reason to get other lenses for the use of creative direction. If you didn't want that, or need that. I.E. you were going to buy a 24-105 or a 24-70 and roll with basically just that with one fast prime as well, I find it very hard to justify that setup when you are spending an extra couple thousand on those lens options (depending on your price point) for something you could get for far cheaper that would do nearly the same job.

20:53 This is one of the reasons that I was very interested for a time in the Panasonic Camcorder AG-DVX200 was that it had a 4/3rds sensor. I would have loved that they continued with this as an option.

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

I definitely hope companies keep their camcorder lines alive, even if they aren't updated as often.

I use an older Canon Camcorder for my Wide cam for wedding ceremonies. It's always been reliable and never failed me and will continue to use it in the future!

As an MMJ, I'm absolutely with you. Camcorders have their prime uses much like mirrorless cams do. I think people's abilities to create content has generated such a gray area, that you routinely have people like me who window shop online or find themselves with the budget to buy a new or used camera and suddenly become that meme of the sweaty guy trying to figure out which button to press.

@pyromaniack13

Жыл бұрын

MMJ?

@jordanbondurantRVA

Жыл бұрын

@@pyromaniack13 multimedia journalist

Great video topic. When I first started on KZread, I went down the same path as most people with a DSLR. After a while, though, I got tired of the recording issues, like time limit and overheating. Decided to sell all of my lenses and camera bodies for a Canon G60. It's been great as an indoor camera. Never have to worry about recording limits again. I miss the blurry background look, but it's a compromise I can live with. It also gives me the option to film my kids in the future. The ultimate dad camera for school events and sports. I also found that because they update camcorders less frequently, I don't feel tempted to buy new gear as much. So I'd say the camcorder was the best purchase I made for my channel in years. 🤙

@gereral1_jackofalltrades

Жыл бұрын

Picked a great camcorder. I still use Canon g30 camcorder 😂😂😂

@johnhpalmer6098

Жыл бұрын

Just seeing this video today and was going to mention the overheating factor, and at one time, the time limit, though I think that aspect has been licked so you don't have to deal with the time limit, used to though and that's an issue with my Nikon D90, bought in 2010. It had other issue, like a codec that is not widely supported and can't adjust focus etc. So never used the camera for video after the few tries to see how it worked. Too hamstrung to be useful in other words. Then in 2019, bought a Canon Vixia used at a pawn shop that dates to 2014 and it's wide screen, does 1080P/30 or 1080I/60 and while the low light performance is middling (noisy), it had many things that can be set to manual, so exposure and audio are 2 I keep in manual so the camera does not always hunt for exposure. The GoPro is equally as bad in low light, but is decent as long as it's near a bright light. The GoPro is more prone to overheating due to its small size, especially if in a hot environment with little airflow but it is my go to at this time. So in that situation, the Canon will trounce the GoPro every time due to the fact that it can dissipate the heat better than even Mirrorless/DSLR's can. That may be why Red and other cinema camera makers use the camcorder form factor over others, and that old film cameras had a similar type of form factor, although with film.

@RSWebery

Жыл бұрын

@@johnhpalmer6098 To be fair to the D90... it was the first DSLR ever to support video, period. And you can manually focus in video, if you didn't know. Flip the switch on the bottom left to "M" (and the one on your lens too, if it has one) and turn the manual focus ring. Now you can control focus!

@johnhpalmer6098

Жыл бұрын

@@RSWebery Had to look and it's what I thought, first off, I know the D90 was the first SLR to do video, but even there, it's crippled too much, for starters, you can focus, but must do so manually before you go to shoot in video mode due to the mirror being up. Later models got around that issue so focus has greatly improved, even can shoot video in auto if I recall and thus able to focus as needed while shooting. The format is proprietary, and tops out at 720, which to be fair, was likely the norm for many digital cameras doing HD at the time anyway. Also, it was limited to 5 minute intervals and tops out at 2G sized files. While Nikon could not say why, likely due to the issue of overheating. Again, this is still common with DSLR/mirrorless cameras as a whole.

Great video. I'd watch a tech round up of every camera category every once in a while. Or, for that matter, a tech check up of any variety. For example, lapel mics vs booms, lighting (LEDs, COB etc.).

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

I love this idea.

This video is giving me so much joy. I was the same as you, born in 86 and we have a very similar story when it comes to cameras and filming.

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

So glad to hear this! Happy you enjoyed it.

Awesome work Tom. Did think quite often about using a camcorder but stick to mirrorless. I just need the flexibility of lenses and for my kind of vids it’s just the way to go. Cheers from Germany and keep up the good work 😊

Nostalgia kicking in. Growing up in '80s I (apparently) always had our camcorder in my hands. I see these types of camcorders at the professional boxing events I cover. They stream to KZread & even some pay per view events. They're great for specific use cases!

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

They are super awesome! I used a lot of the Canon ones when I was a teacher, but never did anything expect events with them, so I didn't know how they performed for more KZread-style stuff.

What camara would you recomend for filming a podcast. I mean filming long periods of time in one shot! Amazing content!

One of my favourite features of my Panasonic HC-X1000 4K camcorder is the 20x zoom. You can press the buttons to zoom in/out electronically (looks really smooth), or by adjusting it manually on the lens (good for accuracy). You can even control it using a remote control - I bought one the other day so need to test that out!

Great video, super thorough and can see that a lot of work went into it! Thank you!

@tombuck

11 ай бұрын

Thanks you! It was really a lot of fun to make.

Loved this video! This seems like an obvious topic to cover but no one really does anymore. Interesting to see different parts of the market we don't normally pay attention to.

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Logan! I've definitely found that branching out into watching different niches of KZread shines a totally different light on things.

I use the Canon XF605 as a B-cam to our main Ursa Mini Pro and I'm absolutely sold on it - especially for run and gun shoots with minimal setup time. Colour matching can be tricky at first but I have Canon lenses on the Ursa as well and it's not too bad when you shoot both in film/log. The XF605 is a great example of a modern camcorder done well. It's got loads of goodies built in for network streaming as well that I've not even looked at yet!

@craigw.scribner6490

Жыл бұрын

I love my XF605--best camcorder I've ever used since I got my Sony CCD-V1 thirty five years ago!

This was a SUPER fun video darling! I can definitely see all the leveling up! It was really fun to watch!! 🤩👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

Level up all the things! 🥰

This is a great video! I feel like I've been wondering this for over a year without any motivation to do any research on my own lol I see them in the camera stores all of the time and figured they weren't as good because youtubers such as yourself, Lindgren, McKinnon, Haapoja, etc. have never talked about them. I appreciate you putting this together! Cheers 🍻

I love camcorders!! Currently I own Sony HDR PJ540 which has a projector built into it. I took it to Europe before COVID and got some great HD video footage and still shots. The best thing was that at night in hotel we watched everything on the wall. It’s an amazing traveling camcorder and after so many years still maintains its price.

@vighneswarangonesen

Жыл бұрын

Does your camcorder matches commercial quality, say, for a budget wedding? I am looking to buy a used HDR PJ675 and i cannot find any sources about this at all.

@Dr23rippa

Жыл бұрын

Good days when creativity was put into camcorders.

The decision making that led to the camcorder gives a broadcast camera vibe to it. Capture the subject in a intelligible fashion regardless of the situation. Reliability over more things to have to fiddle with, even if you have to sacrifice versatility with looks and whatnot. Functions like SDI out just add to that. I’d pick a mirrorless if I was exercising my creative juices, but I’d pick the camcorder if I had to document something instead.

That was a perfect video Tom, I do see people use it, have been wondering how those are, and now I understand the differences, thanks brother!

Thanks for making this video! I don't have the money to buy any camera right now, but you have also said some things that makes me more considerate of what type of camera setup I should go for when the time finally comes

First of all, hello from a fellow Buck! I shot loads of my videos on a camcorder. Until early 2020, my main camera was a Panasonic SD90 that I started using in 2012. And before that, made loads of my early work on miniDV, so the leap to SD cards and HD was huge. It still works and I still use it as one of my B-cameras, I still love it and haven't retired it. I wanted to upgrade it for many years, but there wasn't enough evolution in camcorders. When I did, it became a long hard search to find a mirrorless that fit my needs: I didn't want a mirrorless, I wanted a camcorder, but was forced really. And don't get me wrong, the leap was another huge one that made my videos look more cinematic and professional, but it isn't as convenient. You can't fit a mirrorless in a large pocket, and ergonomically, these cameras are designed for photography, not video, even ones more purportedly for the latter. The two big ones for me was no overheating and being able to record over 30 minutes, which up until recently were still hurdles on mirrorless. I got a Sony A6400 for a good price (I'd have been ideal for the ZV-E10, but it didn't exist then), but it is always something I treat very cautiously because of the cost. It isn't as convenient despite the improvements, and I'm kinda annoyed that innovation was at the expense of camcorders. But, yes, camcorders are extremely underrated. Imagine if there was one that had some the big things in mirrorless, like Sony's AF? What a beast it would be.

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

It seems like mirrorless cameras have really only caught up in terms of reliability in the past year or two, like you said. I LOVE the image quality, but it's tough to beat the ergonomics of the camcorder. The fact that this specific one is several years old and now seems to be at a cheaper price makes me thing that there might be an update coming? I would love to see it with Sony's current AF!

I have such a love for the camcorder form factor. I learned to make movies as a kid on vhs camcorders and learned to edit using two vhs tape decks. I loved moving to mini dv later. Once I moved in to a T3i, I loved the interchangeable lenses and digital workflow but missed how well my body worked with the camcorder form factor. Using the BMPCC6K now but the Ursa 12K form factor has me curious. Maybe the URSA 4.6/12K will give me that old school camcorder feel in a modern device with interchangeable lenses? Lens me give that some thought!

That was a lot of fun to watch (and it answered the question that I had always wondered myself about camcorders vs cameras). Interestingly enough I don't recall hearing any puns in this video so that makes it a different video then normal for me at least. Thanks for sharing!

8:42 what a noble retriever.

@tombuck

6 ай бұрын

The noblest. He has yet to retrieve any gold though.

What you did not mention is that some older camcorder utilized 3CCD sensors, which produced film like image. There is a reason why CCD sensors are still used in high end telescopes - they separate RGB colors better than CMOS sensors. Canon XH-A1 is one of such HDV camcorders, and despite it being an 8-bit 1080i image, it captures film like footage in-camera.

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

3CCD cameras are pretty amazing, and I do have a video about the Canon L1 that dives into it a bit more.

@mauritsvw

Жыл бұрын

Panasonic even had the 3CCDs in very affordable camcorders.

@weeardguy

Жыл бұрын

That's a bit of a confusing statement paired with mentioning 3CCD cameras ;) as the sensors themselves don't separate any colour at all in those machines, that's done by the prism between lens and sensors, that directs R, G and B to their respective sensors. As far as I know, it's also about how noise interacts with the image, which is harder to counteract with CMOS-sensors.

@weeardguy

Жыл бұрын

​@@mauritsvw Just like JVC ;) and probably many others. I still have one (GY-HM100), and it's now in pieces for repair (the ND-filter got electronically stuck in the on-position, with the switch not doing anything anymore) Possibly a bad ceramic cap and some bad solder connections paired with it are the cause. Now got the parts, but besides replacing the SMD 0603 size cap and 0402 size resistors I also have to open the optical block to remove dust that has gotten onto two lens-elements (with one dust-particle on an element part of the OIS-system, so you see a constantly moving piece of dust in your footage) The main reason I dislike CMOS-sensors so far is the fact that very little manufacturers went through the trouble of making the camera act like a global shutter-type like a CCD-camera would. If you're a lightning-enthusiast like me, CMOS-sensors are a bitch. It's the main reason I'm trying to repair the HM100 and also stick to my HM750, as it still has CCD's (well, and the fact I have two very nice lenses for the 750 and the 100 is such a nice, small camera, where the 'successor' (HM250) is just annoyingly bulky) ;) )

I'm not even much of a camera buff, I was just interested in the information. However, as someone with a lot of time spent watching product reviews/ gear talk videos for audio stuff, I must say I really appreciate your presentation style. Substantive information communicated clearly and concisely, with a good sprinkle of humor, with balanced comparisons that measure the utility of features with respect to use case rather than making judgements based solely on personal preference or circumstances. The amount of effort and thought you put into the quality of this video is apparent. Great work!

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

Thank you Cameron! It really means a lot to hear this. It can be tough to balance everything you mentioned in a single video, so I'm really happy to know that it came through this time!

I love camcorders. I use them for weddings. As a solo shooter, I need a camera that’s very versatile and allows me to get what I want without me having to think about the camera. I can just capture whatever I see with no sweat. Camcorders provide that.

Wow Tom! I took the plunge a few weeks ago and bought a Canon Vixia Series camcorder. My Canon C100 Mark ii is a great camera but I needed to get closer to this decade and I just couldn’t get happy with a new cinema series camera. Was it the right purchase, you might ask? For me, yes! While I might aspire to be a KZread master, the reality for me is a camcorder does a great job for my needs. I almost never work in low light and the blurry background is indeed wonderful, it is something I can live without. I have learned so much from your channel! Thank you for all that you are doing!

I think this is a very interesting topic. I've been an owner/operator of an FX6 for the past 2 years now and lots of what people love about the camcorder form factor is present, except for maybe the "affordability" aspect. It's undeniable that the FX6 (and I suppose Sony's older FS series as well) takes a lot of physical inspiration from camcorders and it's a joy to use in professional settings where efficiency is key!

They should bring infrared night shots to smartphones, this was amazing.

Great video Tom, was very hyped to watch it ever since seeing your Tweet on the topic !!

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

Thank you! I had so much fun working on this!

Thank you for sharing this! It help clear up a lot of the questions I had. I’ve been recently filming sports videography and having such a hard time with the focus when players are running across the field or court. When I interview the players during halftime or after, using my low light lenses, the quality is outstanding. Now I get it. I am honestly now debating on getting a camcorder for the sports shots though

I went with DSLR because I couldn’t get a camcorder with a wide enough field of view, and couldn’t get the depth of field that I wanted. But my first thought when starting to make videos on youtube again was to research camcorders. They just didn’t offer what I was looking for in that regard. Great video Tom!

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Mr. Bandrew! I think the small sensor means that the camcorder field of view just has to be narrower. I guess the benefit is that you could add on sweet fisheye lenses for 90's skate videos.

@weeardguy

Жыл бұрын

@@tombuck Most manufacturers offer, beside the fish-eye accessories, wide-angle screw/click on lenses for camcorders, to get a 0,75-0,9 times 'magnification' added to the existing lens, just to circumvent this. There are great differences though, some camcorders really do lack wide-angle (I consider 28 mm (35mm equiv) to be a minimum, but some even start at 30. I'm glad my wide-angle lens on my older camcorder (FHD max) gives me 25 mm.

Tom, when you compare to full-frame equivalent, you need to adjust the f-number as well. It's not equivalent to an f/2.8 lens on a full frame. This is a common misunderstanding, even amongst professionals when it comes to smaller sensor systems.

@zupalicious75

Жыл бұрын

I was thinking exactly the same! A common misunderstanding and a marketing trick in the industry to sell more cameras. So the crop factor should also be applied to the f-stop as well when doing the math. Good review though! 👍

Fantastic video Tom! I remember using that same camcorder for my very first video job. At the time I had a Canon 70D so although I wouldn’t choose it for what I do now, by comparison the camcorder looked pretty good back then. This was very entertaining and brought back good memories so thank you for sharing.

8:03 When I decided I wanted to shoot 4K @60fps, I wanted to get two cameras where it was pretty much ready to go. I got Panasonic HC-X1000 camcorders and still use them today because 1) the 20x zoom is really versatile. 2) the autofocus (it has manual too) is so reliable, even when zooming in or out. 3) It can record UHD @60fps or 4K cinema at @24fps. Perfect for smooth looking 4K on KZread. 4) It uses 1 or 2 SD cards (but for high bitrate you need good ones). 4) the battery is actually good and you can have it plugged in. Now if I was looking today I would consider mirrorless. The issue is the price of lenses and I would need really good video autofocus because as I'm filming myself, I don't have time to check constantly. I just find my camcorders so easy to work with for what I use them for, so unless mirrorless cameras get more affordable, I'll keep what I have for the time being.

I use my PXW-Z90V a lot. I also add a Nija V+ with SDI to get more out of it. It does have ND filters built in and Low Light along with IR night vision. It is my video workhorse. GoPros have a major place in tight situations and when I would rather not risk killing the Sony camcorder.

@StarkTVDeutschland

Жыл бұрын

I got it too and mine also has night vision and build in nd filters I really wonder why he claims it hasn't as the nd are pretty visible from the back side

@innomind

Жыл бұрын

You do know that the SDI output only outputs in HD - not in 4k? The only way to get 4k signal out of Z90 is through HDMI.

I just bought the Canon XF 605, it’s great. We use it for documentary stuff. The files are beautiful, and it’s easy to use, but has a lot of customization. In my opinion cams have been overlooked, they are great value and do broadcast like many DSLR’s can’t. Yes Tom got your release notification quick, I listened to you often and your “corney” word play!

@dashveenj

Жыл бұрын

She gameplay

@dashveenj

Жыл бұрын

Sect and

@dashveenj

Жыл бұрын

X

@dashveenj

Жыл бұрын

L

I filmed a concert and it was really nice to be able to zoom in tight on guitar players and vocals. I had a GoPro on the drums, the Canon equivalent of the camera you’re showing here, and a DSLR with an f2.8 lens on it for super shallow depth shots on a gimbal that I had roaming the stage. Along with another wide shot. It can be super handy in live events but I don’t personally own one because my DSLR shoots excellent video and it does pictures too.

I used to use camcorders in my high school AV class and I didn't realize how spoiled I was to have such a clean and simple setup for when I was still learning everything. Before I even knew what parfocal was I was using it to manual focus my talking head shots. Another interesting use case is how Rooster Teeth (rip) used them, they always spontaneously ran into content situations and many people were recording on their phones to capture the opportunity, but with many different phones all with different color sciences, resolutions, and framerates, the editing workflow was a nightmare. They ended up getting a bunch of camcorders and left them out in reachable places, so in situations where you want to capture something, but not planned to, there was a fleet of easy-to-use and versatile cameras to make things consistent. Would be a lot harder on an interchangeable photo focused system, and compared to phones, the 1 inch sensor is plenty.

Great video as always Tom. Camcorders definitely lost their ‘cool’ factor when DSLRs started to be able to shoot great quality ‘film-like’ video around the mid 2000's but as you say it’s the workflow that often counts when choosing your gear and when I set up my business several years ago I had to gear up for the low to medium budget solo shooter type jobs I knew I’d be doing along side the larger budget jobs (where you can still hire a crew of specialists with specialist gear) and as such I opted to get a camcorder (I now have two) because of the versatility and ease of use all in one package (great zoom range, XLR audio, ND filters etc). When I’m on those jobs where I’m a one man crew, producing, directing, shooting, lighting, recording audio etc, I need my gear to be as much of my assistant as it is my equipment and for run and gun fast paced shoots or live events you can’t really beat them. As you say there are two main drawbacks to camcorders - low light performance and lack of bokeh (which is somewhat achievable in the right situations) but for the sorts of projects I use my camcorders on these two issues aren’t really a problem, in fact the deep depth of field (and parfocal aspect) can be an advantage for live events like sports streaming, and to be honest I’ve found them to be surprisingly decent in low light situations like dimly lit halls etc - and if it’s pitch black I can also use the infrared mode. There are other 'drawbacks' or limitations with most camcorders of this price range, a big one being the limited recording options and codecs. Most of them can't shoot true slo-mo / fast frame rates (they're usually limited to 50 - 60p) and they also tend to limit you to 8 bit 4:2:0 but then you wouldn’t be using these types of cameras to shoot a cinematic project that requires extensive colour grading. The projects I typically use these cameras for don’t allow for extensive colour grading in the budget anyway so it’s good that the images they produce are designed to be used straight out of camera. Interestingly a few of my colleagues who initially scoffed at my choice to use camcorders have since bought their own to add to their cinema or mirrorless kits when they saw how much easier it was to use them in run and gun, low budget corporate jobs or live event situations. Ultimately no camera is the perfect choice for every situation but camcorders still have their place for certain budgets and workflows and I love using mine because they make the job so easy.

I’m loving this video! I was also born in the mid-80s and used camcorders like this for several years in the early 2000’s. Then I took a break from cinematography and when I recently jumped back in, it was shocking how much cameras had changed. EspecialIy the zoom capabilities. I love the new cams but feel like I’m learning all over again!

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

Me too! It's pretty interesting to kind of put all of those preconceived notions aside and really explore what they can do now.

We ran a mid-size streaming studio during COVID with three Sony AX700 (pratically pretty much the same as the Z90), plus a couple ZV-1 (similar sensor, also Sony) and working with them was a breeze! Insane battery-life, super flexible zoom range, good AF, LANC controllable, cheap (paid for themselves probably three to four times over after 2 years). I love these things! We started out with a couple of A7sIII and it always was a hassle. For my other work I recently sold my two A7sIII and got me two FX6 with Power Zooms and it is soooo good! Still have my A1 and A7IV for mirrorless stuff, but I'm firmly back in the camcorder race! Lov'em! And re-living my EX1 days a bit... :)

@no15minutecities

Жыл бұрын

ok

Finally got to watch this video. It was very interesting. Ya I am with you on the sensor size and quality, I go Full frame for sure. The quality was still surprising though. Great job as always!

Ah the good old days. How terrible they were! New camcorders are a hard sell for the majority - the good ones are too expensive, but limited (live events being the exception where they shine), and the cheap ones most would be better off using their phone. Great great video Tom - Nostalgia and info

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

I think you've hit the nail on the head as to where they fit currently. I still love them though!

@jomsies

Жыл бұрын

Live events are easy for mirrorless cams too. Those that have usb-c.

@PhatSimey

Жыл бұрын

Trouble is with people using phones, is 99% of the footage is recorded in stupid portrait mode- which I have an absolute hatred for!

@weeardguy

Жыл бұрын

@@jomsies Sorry, but mirrorless cameras still suck for batterylife: they are photocameras and not meant for ongoing live-events that can take hours. USB-C is also not a professional connection for such things: you'd want HD-SDI via BNC hooked to either a switcher controlled by someone, or sent by ether via a 4G-modem: many professional camcorders have a dedicated USB-output for such modems. If you want better quality (as the bandwidth is usually rather limited on those modems) you can either connect the HD-SDI to a dedicated videotransmitter you either carry on a backpack or - on bigger cameras - usually clicks on as a piggyback-solution on the V-mount batteryplate, which then accepts a V-mount battery on the back of the transmitter. For more 'steady' live events (a football match in a stadium that regularly televises) there usually is a special 'landline' (really high-end pro-stuff) from the directors' cabinet to the camera that takes care of everything: power, remote-control of every setting inside the camera and control on the lens, return videosignals and so on... Especially return-signals are a thing for mirrorless-cameras: they just can't do that. And then about controlling your camera from a tripod: most mirrorless cameras and DSLR's do not feature LANC-connections or similar to have at least one remote on your tripod pan-bar to conveniently control zoom or focus (you usually can't do both at the same time with LANC-remotes). Though I consider LANC-connections to be a non-professional connection (as the 2,5 mm jack is vulnerable and absolutely lacks all protectoin against accidental disconnection), it does give you remote-control over a few basic functions you absolutely want in live situations when on a tripod. The more professional camcorders have dedicated remote-connections so you can control both zoom and focus, while exposure (iris) is usually controlled by the person at the switching console. Even bigger camcorders get the remotes connected to the lens itself, enabling zoom at your right hand and focus on your left hand. The tripod than also needs two pan-bars. I haven't even talked about genlock and such... Good luck finding that on a mirrorless camera.

Amazing video as always Tom! I currently use a Sony - Handycam AX53 but I'm looking to buy a Sony a6400, Cam corders are fun and super easy to use but when I was using it for filming in public it felt just so unprofessional but, I felt like a little kid just running around with a camera which is why I could see why it isn't as popular. Shame because they're really good!

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

There’s definitely something special about being able to swap lenses on a camera with a decent-sized sensor 👍

@TechnoBabble

Жыл бұрын

I would recommend against the a6400 if you're specifically getting it for video. It has no IBIS, horrendous rolling shutter in 4k, and very poor quality 1080p.

@SorryDiego

Жыл бұрын

@@TechnoBabble then what would be a good picture and video camera?

@KDHildreth

Жыл бұрын

@@TechnoBabble The a6400 when used on a tripod is a great 4k video camera especially for interviews (also relatively inexpensive). it's not too bad on a gimbal but yeah the rolling shutter is not great when there is lots of motion. we quite often shoot 1080 50p on a gimbal for b-roll and add a bit of sharpness in post and it looks fine (make sure camera sharpness turned off ie -7 setting).

@SorryDiego

Жыл бұрын

@@KDHildreth how good are the pictures on it ?

As people move to mirrorless cameras, camcorders sales have dropped causing manufacturers to stop making them. Well, not completely, for some but, for those in the consumer market, a lot of units are no longer sold. When is got serious about doing YT, I bought a Panasonic HC-X1, it a great unit and I didn’t use half of the features during the time I had it but, the image quality was great, the zoom was awesome and I loved using the XLR connections on it. The downsides was the screen, I had to use an external monitor as the screen quality was bad. The IBIS could also use some work for hand holding., on a tripod, it’s great. I wanted the newly released, at the time, Panasonic X2000. It was similar to that SONY, with the XLR connectors, but smaller. Since they weren’t available, went with the XC-H1. There should be more camcorders options on the market but, I doubt that will happen. That SONY is several years old and as mentioned lacks internal ND. The XC-2000 is marketed as a professional camcorder and comes with built in ND. It was $2k when released, with a removable XLR handle. Don’t want the handle? Get the XC-1500 and you could buy the handle later. Down, side is that it had a small sensor, not the 1 inch like the HC-X1. I saw they upgraded the XC-X1 recently and the price also went up. I doubt you will find the XC-2000 for the $2k release price anymore. Unless more people buy them and post on YT, only those in the know will continue to use them.

I use a JVC GY-HC500 as my main A cam. I originally bought it for its live streaming capabilities but now it just lives on a tripod in my home studio. Photographers always think mirrorless but professional videographers know the value of a good professional camcorder.

Great job, Tom. Very interesting. I started with 8mm film. Later we had the digital tapes, memory cards and Sony Handycams. Now loving the A7Siii. Have a great day! PS. Yes, Sony really needs to work on their model numbers. I just bought the new Sony E10-78BEV&^%$# microphone.

Well, for now small sensor camcorders and smartphones are managing to achieve amazing results in improving digital noise in low light, they also achieve bokeh through AI. They're not a replacement for a full frame camera with a $1500 lens but they're increasingly better optimized with the vlogger in mind.

Love this. And yes, I have both as each have their uses. Great video man. :)

Oh I remember the big old shoulder rig VHS ones. Glad we have come a long way.

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

I used to think those were the COOLEST. You could record a video and then just put the tape straight into a VCR?! Magic.

@DieselD

Жыл бұрын

@@tombuck yeah they like magic as kids. My dad had one that use beta, and took it with us to Disney. It was like the size of a modern day IMAX camera, in my 3yo eyes anyway.

I can remember when Sony made a camcorder with interchangeable lenses that had a full frame sensor in it. More or less a DSLR in a Camcorder form factor. I remember being really excited about that since I loved my Sony Handycams and also wanted to get cinematic shots, but it must not have been very popular because I haven’t really heard much about it lately… 😂

Cool video. I constantly have arguments with my father who has a Sony AX700 compared against my mirrorless APS-C camera. Whilst the image quality on my camera is better, most of the time it is pretty marginal, and if we go out together he has taken his footage at a variety of focal lengths way before I have, as I have been swapping lenses off and on. He pretty much rolls his eyes at me and says that is a total faff! Actually not helped as one time I got dust on my sensor when I swapped lenses :D :D There is one camera I am considering which is the Sony RX100 VII. That has the same sensor as the camcorder, has a really good zoom range, and is ridicuously portable (small!).

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

I have the RX100 V, and it really is awesome! The newer ones are only better, but the first 50 or so videos on my channel were made mostly with the RX100.

Like you mentioned in your pinned comment, the discussion isn’t about a specific camcorder model, but it’s worth mentioning that the Canon XF400/405 and family of HD to 4K cameras still have that infrared night mode. Not useful for most pro video work, but it’s a nice feature for documentary video (professional or life-documenting).

@vlcthefish

Жыл бұрын

This Sony model also has night mode. He incorrectly stated that it didn't. One thing that Canon model has is 4k 60FPS which Sony can't do.

This was a great informative video! I’m on the A7SIII and not in the market for a camcorder, but it was a interesting watch! Btw, how did you get access to the zoo at night? 😅

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

Our local Zoo does Christmas lights at night during the month of December. It's super cool!

You can get almost the same Sony camcorder (lens, sensor, and basic functions) for about $2500 less... Just last night I was just looking into Sony's FDR-AX700. It has the same sensor and lens as the PXW-Z90 you're showing. There are three camcorders in that series with the same frame, lens, and sensor: FDR-AX700, HXR-NX80, and PXW-Z90V. I shoot a lot on a boat, and the internal stabilization is attractive for stabilization, which wasn't really discussed in this review and is a great feature of this camcorder series. All three of these cameras also have a fast T* 12x lens with insanely fast autofocusing too. There's a great comparison of this series which supplements Tom's review really well if you want to learn more about the nitty-gritty of this series: kzread.info/dash/bejne/e56uu8OMcsSqYbg.html I think I'll be getting one and shooting it instead of my A7RIV in certain situations...

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

That’s a great deal!

@arnoldsnodgrass2953

Жыл бұрын

That series of camcorders do not have internal gimbals. Only Sony’s top level consumer camcorders do (the AX43 and 53). The ones mentioned do have sensor stabilisation but it’s not a gimbal.

@Petkow66

Жыл бұрын

Combine Sony FDR-AX700 with DM Wraparound Bracket and you can add lots of accessories and build up very professional video rig.

@clearlystupider2443

Жыл бұрын

@@Petkow66 My camera just arrived. I love it and that bracket looks awesome. Thx

@Petkow66

Жыл бұрын

Replace lens hood with Tilta Mini or Mirage matte box. Smallrig and other brands offer top and side handles and other accessories.

I have 2 of those PXW model camcorders. Works like a charm for many needs. There is a built in ND Filter on the Z90 tho...

I remember DSLRs were recommended for film students over camcorders when they first started featuring HD video. Because the interchangeable lenses and rolling shutters of the CMOS made them look more like film.

Hi Tom. You have said relatively little about the audio options that come with that camcorder. Audio in/out is really important for docs and live events. The top handle would be a huge plus for a doc filmmaker.

I’ve been using video cameras for decades, S-VHS was my first video camera and then graduated up the ranks through Hi-8-mini DV and 1080p digital to 4K digital. For video the camcorder is the best option even for today. DSLR has many great features but a smooth zoom and optical image stabilization is way better on a video camera. I’m now using a Panasonic HXc2000 and it has built in ND filters, an LED light on the handle and xlr inputs and the lens on it is amazing 32x zoom optically. It’s really hard to beat.

I wanted swappable lenses and also chose not to go with an inspire drone, so a mirrorless ended up being the option I went with. I was lucky enough to work with a guy who had a whole S-Beta copy and editing station, so I missed out on a lot of your complaints.

Great job on the video Tom! Thanks for making it.

The right tool for the right job. I try to use camcorders for any job that requires reliability, zoom, consistent auto focus, audio etc. When doing anything other than talking head or fixed shots it is just so much easier and consistent to use a camcorder than a mirrorless plus rig/accessories that breaks easily and takes time to setup

I got my first camcorder recently and am absolutely loving it! It really is a perfect fit running my channel on my own.

1:15 honestly, I love the retro look, so I don’t think it’s trash but if you’re trying to recording a KZread studio and talking head, I understand but using cameras like that for music videos or stylus shots are honestly really great🎉🎉

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

It's a really fun thing to play with sometimes! But there's definitely a difference between choosing to use it and having it be your only option 😁 I know there's a huge renaissance of skate culture/videos and old camcorders have become super popular with high school kids for making skate videos. I think that's awesome.

I love using camcorders for my overhead cameras for the simple fact you can control everything with a remote. It’s really annoying to need to physically handle a camera that takes a long time to frame perfectly. Having the zoom on a remote is amazing, and Sony cam corsets never overheat. I’ve had my AX100 on for 3 years straight. The color science also pairs well with my ZV-1. I just wish there was a full frame version.

Very good and balanced presentation. The camcorder you used for demonstration (Sony pxw z90v), however, does have ND filters. The selector for 3 settings plus clear is in the back of the unit under the viewfinder. I have the very similar Sony FDR-AX700, which is the only camcorder I kept after retiring from over 20 years of professional videography - mostly event coverage. I also kept a Sony PZ f3.5 f3.5-6.3 18-200 ASP-C lens from an interchangeable-lens pro camcorder that I sold. That lens is completely underrated and under-discussed. It is very sharp, capable of nice bokeh in its telephoto ranges, and surprisingly light and compact for its extreme versatility. I now use the lens on a Sony a6600, but find operating the a6600 to be completely non-intuitive and difficult. I’d like to transition into more film-making in my retirement, with at least a little photography in the mix; but find the a6600 to be discouraging as a sidekick.I’m considering a Sony FX30 to take its place; but I’m put off by the lack of a viewfinder and, to a lesser extent, internal ND filters. The AX700 is a keeper in my vastly reduced arsenal.

This all just reminds me why I love my FS-5, it may be much more bulky than most alternatives but it does just do everything really well.

Great video. I still use Canon g30 camcorder. Reason is broadcast 23.97 and 29.98. produces clean HDMI, no time limit, fstop 2.8 thru entire focal length. Beautiful lens, Great preamps, low power, dual SD card slots, color broadcast patterns, ND filters . Touch screen focus, all manual functions. Processor same Canon c100 mkii. Made a video on smallrig rail system for it if anyone is interested. My next purchase will be Canon c100 mkii. I started with Canon t3i lol. Forgot to mention it has full cell phone control via WiFi and psf frames for atomos record. Can't find anyone selling these because this g30 is a gem.

My favourite camera for ergonomics is the C100 mkii. For a decent zoom range you can use it with the 18-135mm efs lens or (if you need more reach) the 50-250mm efs. You can then use primes or the Sigma 18-35mm for shallow depth of field and low light

@tombuck

Жыл бұрын

Definitely! I was able to use a C100 MKII at my old job and it was always a joy to work with. Especially for the price, if I was only working with 1080 footage, I'd still love to have one!

@vlcthefish

Жыл бұрын

@@tombuck You should update your post to add in you missed the fact that it also has a night shot mode

I love using a camcorder for my overhead product shots. The reason is because of the set-it-and-forget it nature of the camcorder. All settings can be done using the remote without touching it. If I had a mirrorless or DSLR up there, I would be fidgeting with it.

I still use camcorders & love them! I'm bummed that manufacturers stopped investing & updating them! I still have a Sony AX100 & Sony AX53. Both so fantastic!

I use to be a heavy camcorder guy back in the day. My last one was a Canon XL-1. Yeah, I'm old. However the compatibility and strong dual use of full frame camera just covers so much for me.

@tombuck

7 ай бұрын

The XL1 is such an incredible camera.

Great video, thanks. I use the Sony fdr AX53 consumer version for live events and corporate live streaming. They are super easy and reliable. And that's what I needed.

That's an interesting perspective. I have a Sony a 7 iii, and although I do record videos with it sometimes because it's easier to set up on a tripod and control remotely from my phone then trying to prop my phone up on a shelf, I always thought of that as a kind of secondary function. I actually need to work out how to manage things like focus tracking and so on, I usually just set it to a high f-stop and try to stay in the depth of field. I've noticed that when I go to concerts, a lot of the concert videographers are using the exact same camera, except on specialised mounts and so on.