When HDSLR Filmmaking started catching on with great cameras like the Canon 5D Mark II and the Canon 7D, word spread that it was going to completely redefine how movies are made. With sensors 4x the size of the RED One, these cameras are able to give an image with low light capabilities and shallow depth of field like no other.
The big downside for me, though, was that HDSLRs were only able to record 12 minutes of video continuously before it’d start to overheat. Not good for documentary filmmaking. There was also no XLR audio input. The single mini input jack meant that we’d have to purchase either a converter box or a portable field recorder to enable quality 2-channel audio recording.
That’s why when Panasonic announced their upcoming release of the AG-AF100, my heart skipped a beat. Finally, a good cross between a HDSLR and a professional video camera. Let’s take a look at the specs here:
- 4/3-inch image sensor
- Micro Four Thirds lens mount – lets you mount film camera and prime lenses
- High Definition Viewfinder (no need to buy an additional Z-finder!)
- Dual SD Card slots, so you can swap while recording
- Anti-aliasing filter to remove moire
- Uncompressed professional audio (2 XLR inputs!)
- Built-in ND Filters
- Full waveform monitor
- Color-peaking focus assist
- Auto-focus + Auto-iris if you use a lens that enables it
Love at first sight. Word has it that it’s slated for a year-end release and is going to retail for just under $5,000. Oh, Panasonic, you’ve done it again. Moving from the HVX-200 to the AG-AF100 should be a piece of cake! I’m so excited! Check out Barry Green’s detailed hands-on video introduction of it below.
[Youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZGtFZoSyhA&hd=1]
Shuling Yong 