Hello filmmaking.net! 🙂
I'm a young (high school age) aspiring filmmaker looking for a new camera.
For the past few years I've been using my Canon ZR80 for pretty much everything. Problem is that it's one of the models that apparently is affected by a manufacturing issue they had. So basically the optical sensor deteriorated or something along those lines. Canon will repair it, but I have been thinking now that I should also upgrade to a newer camera.
I am leaning to a HD camcorder, namely something in the JVC Everio series. (that GZ-HD7 is so cool haha) Problem is they are quite expensive for me (I'm not even quite old enough to get a job here). I would definitely be willing to save up and save up some more for one of these cameras (either the GZ-HD6 or the GZ-HD7), but obviously it would take a long time. So I just want to be certain a commitment like that would be worth it.
Basically my question is: are the HD camcorders really worth it? I can look at the LCD screen all I want at the store but that doesn't mean it will look great on the computer monitor/TV.
----------
http://vimeo.com/corax
The ones you are talking about are not really worth scrimping for, no. I'd suggest continuing to make films with the camera you have and then when you've saved up for pro-HD like HVX or EXcam, you'll be an experienced filmmaker.
So basically;
Right now avoid the temptation to gear-grab and instead put all my focus into getting more experience?
----------
http://vimeo.com/corax
Personally Ive had the advantage of having used HDV cameras, and whats more with a range of differnt HDV cameras of different standards. And personally I prefer to use HDV, not only is it the way forward for audience viewing pleasure, but for film productions alike hence it brings better colour to your audience, which all adds to the the audience's experience.
So I would recommened it, in which case you are working on a really tight budget then I would suggest that you get a cheap second hand HDV camera to gain your own experience with.
Greatest regards, Cleary.
www.myspace.com/b31_film_productions
www.youtube.com/yoursayvideos
If you are going to take the time to save up your money it is best to get a proper Pro camera.
I have a GZ-HD7 camera and it produces a real nice picture "But" it is a hard drive camera and is a pain in the ass with the MPEG-2 format.
I edit on both Adobe Premiere Pro and Avid Media Composer and I have to convert the format so the programs will except it.
The Everio cameras are nice but if you want to be a Pro Filmmaker do it right the first time.
I am currently using a Canon XL2 standard Def. camera to shoot all my footage and the Everio mainly stays in it's case.
I am looking at getting a high Def Pro camera and I am looking at a "Panasonic HVX 200P" or the "Sony Z1P" (we use the "Z1P" at filmschool and it's a nice camera)
I guess it comes down to,
"you only get what you pay for"
Well most of the time.
Hope this helps you.
Glen.
http://www.youtube.com/user/GAPfilmsanddocos
http://www.youtube.com/user/GAPfilmsanddocos
Thanks a lot for your responses! 🙂
I think my plan right now (which has been formulated based on your responses and just my own thinking) is to continue making movies with the gear I have now, but also start a camera fund as to upgrade later on to one of these "pro" cameras.
My family owns a Canon ZR500, which is basically a newer and better version of the ZR80. I don't really like the feel of it (it's a total. well, camcorder haha) but it works well enough. At the very least it has a mic input. I'll probably be using that one primarily.
Once again thank you for your responses, and I think I'll be hanging out here for awhile. 😀
----------
http://vimeo.com/corax
