Doug Jensen’s Sony PXW-Z90, NX80, and AX700 Master Class - CHAPTER 1 FREE

vimeo.com/onde...
My 5-hour Sony PXW-Z90, NX80, and AX700 Master Class is available for on-demand streaming at Vimeo. You can watch the first chapter (30 minutes) for free here, and you can sign up for the other 22 chapters here: vimeo.com/onde...

[@jameshill8711]

I just purchased the Z90 for the fun of it. As an amateur, I'm really relieved to have found Doug's upload, I'd be lost without it. Many thank's.

[@GbolahanFaluade]

We just bought an FDR-AX700 and had searched everywhere for a video tutorial on it. I am 14 minutes into your video and on a scale of 1-10, its a 20!

[@dougjensen6639]

That is high praise, indeed! I'm glad your searching brought us together.

[@GbolahanFaluade]

I already bought the tutorial on vimeo. Real good and highly recommended for the $45:00 price.

[@duchhycreations2784]

Having just finished this course, I would highly recommend it. I am a novice and would have wasted my money on the AX 700 without this course. Doug explains the camera and video principles very clearly, using diagrams and examples to illustrate points. My questions were answered clearly and promptly. For the price of a mid-sized memory card I have learnt in a week what would have taken months learning by trial and error, reading through manuals, articles or how to videos on KZbin.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Thanks Duchhy! I appreciate the nice comments and recommendation for the master class. Much appreciated.

[@morrisenyeart9310]

This is without doubt the single best overview of the 3 camcorders I have seen on KZbin. Going to check on the Master Class.

[@stevehutchesson1321]

This set of tutorials are really excellent value when you compare the cost of the camera (in my case an AX700). Instead of spending months experimenting with settings, some time spent on these tutorials gets you up to speed fast so you actually know your way around the camera.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Thanks Steve!

[@tiffanyneedsahobby5632]

This is the most helpful video Ive been able to find on the Sony ax700. Thank you so much for making this!

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Thank you, Tiffany. I'm glad that you liked it.

[@CyberEditing]

Great to see a Masterclass on the PXW-Z90 only 2 weeks after I bought it !

[@TheMetalRoofingAcademy]

How do you like it so far? Primarily what type of videos do you shoot with it? Thanks!

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

@@TheMetalRoofingAcademy I love the Z90 and use it for run & gun shooting where I don't want to drag around a bigger and more cumbersome camera. The Z90 is proving to be a nice workhorse.

[@TheMetalRoofingAcademy]

I have been really liking it. I did run into an issue when filming a presentation. I had maybe an hour long clip or so shooting in 4K. I'm not sure if it was just too long of a clip with too much space for one clip but it made the card corrupted and I lost that hour of footage. Ever have this issue? The SD used was an Extreme Pro 95mb/s class 10 128gb card.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

@@TheMetalRoofingAcademy I think that card should be good enough for 4K so I can't say what may have happened in your situation. Personally I have had no problems at all shooting 4K.

[@TheMetalRoofingAcademy]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia thanks for the response. I'm not sure either. It may be a directory issue on the card itself?

[@HOUSDEN]

this is a great class that i paid for but i thought it was on youtube. It is on vimeo my big mistake. It was the best thing that i did after i bought my sony z90. thanks doug for helping me find my lost videos. this class rocks. thanks again doug for your help.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Hi Don, thanks for the further explanation. I'm glad you found the right video again at Vimeo.

[@rvertv]

Thank You Doug... I am ordering a Z90 this week and will sign up for your training...This is perfect..I am glad i waited to watch this chapter 1.

[@markyboy_productions]

Very thorough and clear video. Thank you for this!

[@biggusbestus551]

I have narrowed my camera search to these cameras. I am sure I need your class, and should pay you for this video. This is pretty much the best information on these cameras I have seen so far. I need a class for every electronic item I buy. I am seriously old and really do not have any three year old children to help me with my smart phone even … You just got a fan and subscriber. Thanks for presenting in terms easy to follow.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Your exactly the target audience I had in mind when I produced it. Thanks.

[@palootto4021]

Awesome presentation! I just bought the AX700 and will use your video as a learning source. Thank you for such a professional persentation.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Thank you. I'm glad the videos have been helpful.

[@CazaYPesca]

so if i set the camera to 120fps I can only record for 10 seconds ?

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

No, whatever gave you that idea? You can shoot at 120 fps until the card fills up! A great feature.

[@claytonmoore2091]

Your camera training is the best Ive ever seen. Clear and to the point. Every easy to follow and seems to be just what people need. Word to SONY, whatever firmware record settings are coming, they really need to include a UHD 60fps, even at 4:2:0. Im going to get a camcorder this year to compliment my DSLR Body style rig, but cant consider a model without that.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Clayton, thanks for the nice comments. Very much appreciated. I personally wounldn't be interested in 60 fps 4K even of the camera offered it, but from a marketing point of view, I think Sony should listen to your advice.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Well, the new Z190 and Z280 both offer 4K @ 60P.

[@claytonmoore2091]

Ah -- NEW stuff! I missed that! .....thanks Doug

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

And did I mention that on the Z280 that 4K @ 60 fps is XAVC-I 4:2:2 10-bit? Pretty impressive. Finally we have a small camera that has a codec that is worthy of S-LOG.

[@biggusbestus551]

These @@DougJensenVortexMediaare not the cameras in your video Z190 and Z280 correct? I think those are like over twice the money.

[@sherrybronson9176]

Doug - this was a great master class....I love the Sony PXW-Z90

[@eTechTV]

Great introductory video! I have several PXW-Z90's and am looking forward to learning this camera with the Masterclass video!

[@dean7275]

I love how detailed and simplifying you make your tutorials for someone like me that is a beginner. Can you do a video to explain what the different files and codecs mean ? Thanks man!

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Sure, I already made that video. It is chapter 5 of this video series: vimeo.com/ondemand/z90/

[@claytonmoore2091]

You were not kidding about the auto focus, I just watched a video by SONY on it, really impressive! Between SONY and its competition the next 24 months should be pretty interesting in this market. Things are moving VERY fast. I'd guess features aside, from an image point or view and the explosion of OTT over broadcast, were pretty close to it mattering very little what camera you buy.

[@scarborosasquatchstation1403]

Doug Jensen : Excellent video with its mini tutorial on the control switches , buttons and joystick functions in re-guards to using the Sony PXW-Z90 , NX80 , AX700 …..!!! Very good for beginners to learn about all the bells , and whistles that make these Sony camcorders an excellent multi -media choice for quality filming !!! Thanks S.S.S./*Tom

[@scarborosasquatchstation1403]

Doug Jensen : The only thing missing in this video was the info on the camcorder housings , like what material they may be constructed from , including if the weather is an issue with rain , snow , heat wave [sun] , dust and freezing temps ! Thanks ~ I subscribed to your channel today !

[@howardhdavidson]

The best review, master class,whatever you wish to call it on any type of camera/camcorder I’ve seen.This is how it should be done.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

High praise, indeed! Thanks for the feedback.

[@WideWorldofTrains]

I just got the FDR ax700 and the image stabilization is no where near as good as my fdr ax53, unless im doing something wrong?

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

I can't say if you are doing something wrong or not because I don't know what your settings are, but it would not surprise me if the AX53 had superior stabilization. I have never used a AX53, but excellent stabilization is the main thing it is known for.

[@WideWorldofTrains]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia I know next to nothing about these settings, I want to learn and thats how I found your video. I use these cameras to film moving trains.

[@WideWorldofTrains]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia Plus I see Sony did a stabilization firmware update to the ax700, I checked and my camera already has the updated version 1.01

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

​@@WideWorldofTrains I don't know how good the AX53's stabilization is, but if SteadyShot on the AX700 isn't good enough -- that is some pretty rough shooting you're doing. People never want to hear this, but my advice is to invest in a good tripod. There is absolutely no substitute for a good tripod.

[@WideWorldofTrains]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia The 700 is nowhere as good as the ax53, I shooting the exact same way with both in the same conditions. Im thinking about a gimbal but I have to zoom in and out while shooting. I need something mobile and a tripod will not work

[@larrysernyk6154]

Thanks Doug! Very helpful. Just bought an AX700.

[@stevehutchesson1321]

Hi Doug, some user feedback is always useful. Digested the rest of the tutes and solved the problem with poor 1080. 4k has always been good with the AX700 but the default 1080 was a bit too soft and fuzzy. Did the user profile and tweaked the detail, set it to hlg1 and its coming out very well, almost nothing to do in post. I try to get the best I can into the front of the camera before post as it seems to generate the best results. I could be tempted to get your Da Vinci Resolve tutes but I have yet to have a use for that style of post.

[@claytonmoore2091]

A Company I do work for purchased a Z90 so I got your training and its VERY GOOD!! Clear and exactly the information needed to get up and running. I have a GH5 personally which I really love. But I have used your recommended WYSIWYG picture profile for the 90 and with minor tweaks on the GH5 and in post I.... can edit the two together fine. Great job Doug!!! BTW I may get an NX80 for myself next year.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Clayton, thanks for the kind words! It's comments like yours that make it all worth it.

[@DavidFedele]

Hi Doug, thanks so much for this very informative video! I am a one-person, documentary film-maker. My first ever camcorder was the Sony HVR-A1E, which I absolutely love(d), but stopped using it as it uses mini DV tapes. I "upgraded" to a Canon XF100, but ..... there was one feature of this camera which made it "unusable" after working with the Sony HVR-A1E for so long ... which was the speed of the Zoom. Even at its fastest speed, it is way too slow for me ..... as I work in a "run and gun" style, and need things to happen quickly. I wonder if you can comment on the SPEED of the Zoom of these cameras, at their fastest speed? It may sound strange, but this is actually a potential deal-breaker for me! Many thanks

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Hi David, a full-range zoom will take 2 seconds with the speed set to "8" . . . and 23 seconds with "1".

[@nasserlukmani1012]

Incredible course. Thank you.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

You're welcome. I'm glad you liked it.

[@LiveMusicOntario]

In the series I see Doug mounting the camcorder on the tripod on a few occasions outdoors with some kind of click in base. I'm looking for something with a long base like the Manfrotto 201PL but that can click in like that, not have to be slid in from the back. Doesn't have to be Manfrotto, just suitable for these cameras and click in and out. I find the 201PL no fun to trust in the mount/dismount process, One handed operation would be preferred.

[@videoworks7731]

wonderful review thank you

[@AydinOdyakmaz]

Been soo many years since I bought your video last cameras was the XDAM EX and now I need to buy another camera so will of course buy your vortex video on the cameras mentioned. Thx for being honest I love the way you say it straight up ! Sending thx from Canada 🇨🇦

[@nature-agt3725]

Great video!Thanks for sharing!

[@DanScott1]

Hi Doug, can you help me? In my EFV (AX700 - just got it and will do your course) there are some, what I think, are pdaf border markings, that look like ‘parantheses’ in my monitor/EVF on either side. How can I turn them off, I don't know how thay appeared?

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Hi Dan, I can't picture what you are describing. "pdaf"? Parantheses? I don' t know what you mean.

[@DanScott1]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia The phase detection AF area. These two black lines run down inside either side of the EVF picture frame as if to suggest a guide frame for the area covered by the phaze detection area. That's how I describe it and it just showed up in the first few minutes of looking that new cam (had not been into the menus yet either).

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

@@DanScott1 I think you may be referring to the Phase Detect AF Area indicator. You can turn the display off at MENU > DISPLAY SET > PHASE DETECT AF AREA.

[@DanScott1]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia I was just looking at your master class today and saw this. I'll try this, thanks. Just asking: if this area indicator was on to begin with, on a new cam, it had to be set first, to on right? Just wondering if someone else had had a look at the cam first, a little odd as the language, region, time display.. the bit you set up first had not been done yet.. unless the factory reset does not reset the phaze detect AF area? It's a damaged box deal from Amazon, just the remote was missing. Thanks Doug.

[@tamaraslotkowski887]

I have owned the FDR-AX700 for about two years. The picture quality is really very good. One point about the camera bothers me a lot: The image stabilizer is really miserable compared to the AX53.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Hmm, I find the image stabilization works very well on my Z90.

[@cryptohunt2552]

I am considering buying a Sony FDR AX700. I am currently using a Sony PJ790-HDR which had 24.5 megapixels and a 17X zoom lense. Apart from 4K, what improvements or advantages can the AX700 give me for filmmaking?

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Sorry, I have never even heard of the PJ790 let alone know anything about it or how it would compare to other cameras. If you watch the video up above you can learn about the AX700 and then you should be able to answer those questions yourself.

[@cryptohunt2552]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia kzbin.info/www/bejne/fIfCl4Wkpspjmqc Give me your thoughts?

[@sandgroperwookiee65]

I can't afford any of these cameras, but it is nice to dream 🙂 Great video👍👍

[@JodyJSteeg]

Hi Doug great video! What camera are using to shoot this video? I scrolled comments but couldn't find if this was asked and answered somewhere.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Thank you for the compliment. This video was shot with my FS7 and a Sony prime lens.

[@Manuelrehse]

Wow so good! Thank you for making such a detailed and professionell video

[@dfrederick9132]

Hello Doug, Your breakdown of these 3 cameras is really helpful, however I am still having a hard time making a decision between the NX80 and the AX700. I make documentaries and usually work alone. How is the NX80 for run and gun or handling solo? I have seen mixed reviews on this and wonder what your take is. Another concern is audio, I have used a Beachtek XLR adapter with my wireless mic for a long time--several cameras ago. I assume I could use this on the AX700, but I am wondering if it would be better to get the NX80. Any thoughts on that would be appreciated. I am also wondering if you know if SONY plans to release a camcorder that is an improvement over these in the near future. Thanks again for providing clear details.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

If you already have XLR microphones there is no question you need to get the NX80. The difference in price is only 300 bucks, why are you even hesitating? All hte other benefits of the NX80 would be icing in the cake. Stop fooling around and just get the right camera. :-)

[@dfrederick9132]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia You make a great point, thanks for your speedy reply.

[@TwistedDice]

Really awesome video buddy

[@TwinkieTerror]

Not trying to be rude or bossy but trying to help you out, people don’t like being called buddy. I used to do it until I found out it makes the majority of people annoyed lol

[@TwistedDice]

@@TwinkieTerror 😂😂

[@hervefieujean6296]

Merci beaucoup pour cette présentation. Je vais investir dans la NX80.

[@charlespatrick8650]

I'm thinking about purchasing the NX80 as I continue on in my film study classes, I'm in basic digital film rn using school provided Canon XA10s, and continuing with intermediate digital film next Spring along with basic cinematography and non-linear video editing, I also want to use the camera to produce guitar and guitar equipment informational videos, along with instructional and review videos to post here on YT, just need a couple more GI Bill payments before I can save enough to purchase the NX80, I'll obviously need to buy the attached mic and a tripod too, along with a case and some basic lighting/shadow equipment

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Congratulations on upcoming camera purchase and I wish you well in your classes. Hopefully you are enjoying this new endeavor as much as I have enjoyed my career in TV/video production.

[@charlespatrick8650]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia thank you, Doug!

[@sekkha]

Hi Doug, Sony's specifications for audio record performance say the AX700 records in 16 bit/48kHz, not 24bit/48kHz as you report. For this reason I did not order the XLR-K2M attachment believing I would need to use a separate audio recorder to for the best results with xlr external microphones. Can you comment? (below is what I pulled from the Sony site) Dolby Digital 2ch Stereo, Dolby Digital Stereo Creator7, MPEG-4 AAC-LC 2ch8, MPEG-4 Linear PCM 2ch (48 kHz/16 bit)

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

You are correct that the AX700 records 16-bit/48kHz audio even though the Z90 and NX80 can both record 24-bit/48kHz. If I didn't make that clear or said the wrong thing in the video, I apologize for the error. More bits are always better than fewer bits, but in all honesty, if you can hear the difference between 24-bit and 16-bit you have better ears than me. If I was in your shoes, I wouldn't let it make any difference to how I used the camera. I believe that even CDs are only 16-bit.

[@sekkha]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia Thanks much for your reply. I ended up buying the AX700 with an Azden SMZ-30 mic. I haven't had time to play with it much yet but suspect this kit will work just fine for me. Thanks for you in-depth, excellent video.

[@nasserlukmani1012]

I guess Digital Extender option is grayed out when when the camera is in 4K.

[@didgeproject]

Hey Doug, Great info here. I've been considering buying a z90 for broadcasting live events to a blackmagic switcher. However, I have been told that when you record in 4k on this camera and output via sdi or hdmi, the lcd and viewfinder both shut off, as the camera thinks you are outputting to a monitor. Is this true? If so, is there a camera of this quality that can record 4k while simultaneously outputting 1080p vid sdi or hdmi without losing the onboard viewing options? Thank you!

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

It's true that the camera cannot output 4K while simultaneously sending video to the viewfinder/LCD monitor while recording to the SD cards. It's a little more complex than that, but that is the gist of it. You might want to take a look at the Z190 and Z280.

[@didgeproject]

Doug Jensen thanks for getting back to me. Again, I really appreciate all the content you’ve put out online. Is this a possible workaround for the z90: using a external monitor with a pass-through for the SDI or HDMI output,? This is for live streaming via a switcher, so I am just wondering if having a monitor in the middle of the output sending the switcher will cause latency issues.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

@@didgeproject Sure, there's many different ways to work around a problem like this, but the easiest way is simply not to use 4K. Why would you need 4K for a streaming event that will probably get dumbed down to 720P somewhere in the pipeline anyway?

[@didgeproject]

Doug Jensen i want to record live music on stages in 4k for later editing. Having 4k makes cropping in editing a possibility to make 1 camera look like multiple angles. I am currently an A7sii user and dealing with the same issue.

[@miguelmoreno6552]

Yo tengo la sony fdr ax700 y me arrepentí de comprarla porque tiene muy mal estabilizador. Utilizó más la anterior que compre la sony fdr ax53 porque con esta,se graba muy bien a mano

[@nasserlukmani1012]

Hello Doug. I used the NX80 in a reception hall that had avarage lighting. My 4K video came out a bit darker than I wanted. I used the directional lighting preset in Adobe Pro to adjust but am wondering if I would have done better shooting in 1080p. The NX80 was in full auto. Can you please give me advise on how you would shoot under these conditions? I was helping a friend and did not want to carry around external lights. Also, what is your preferred software/method to brighten up a clip without sacrificing sharpness? Thanks for any advise you can offer including NX80 settings you would have chosen.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Hi Nasser, Your questions are far too complex to explain in few sentences, so I'm going to have to refer you to my 5-hour master class for more information. vimeo.com/ondemand/z90 Shooting in Full Auto is the worst thing you can do and will doom your video to failure. If you had used manual control instead then there is a good chance that your video could have been properly exposed in the first place so no work in post would be necessary. As for what software to use for brightening dark clips, I don't really use any special software because I do whatever I need to do to make sure I get a good exposure at the time of shooting. But for rare times when that is impossible, then I would use DaVinci Resolve to process the footage.

[@nasserlukmani1012]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia I have already purchased this class and have gone through it. Do do another pass.

[@donovanw.2943]

Great info! Thank you, just signed up for the remaining classes :)

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Thank you for your support. I'm sure you will like it.

[@DavidFedele]

Such a great video Doug! I am tossing up which of these cameras to get ...... One huge priority for me is keeping the camera as small as possible, which pushes me in the direction of the AX700 over the Z90 or NX80, but I still need to capture best audio possible, without relying on the camera's built-in mic(s). The question that I really can't find any information about ANYWHERE is about using an "on camera microphone", which to connect to the MI shoe on top of the AX700. I wonder if you can comment on the audio quality difference between using a top-quality on-camera microphone connected to the MI shoe VS the XLR inputs with the Z90/NX80? And if there is an on-camera microphone that you may recommend, for best quality? Many thanks

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Hi David, sorry for the slow reply. Because I don't use/own any microphones that don't have XLR connectors, wanted to do a little research into the mics that can me mounted directly to the AX700's multi-interface shoe. I was suprised by how many options Sony manufactures, but if I was in your shoes, I think the one I'd be most intersted in trying is the ECM-B1M. I don't have any hands-on experience with it myself, but that's the one I'd look at if you didn't want an XLR compatible mic.

[@DavidFedele]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia - Great, thanks so much Doug. Keep up the brilliant work with these videos!

[@baldino.soccer]

It's time for a new camcorder and I think the AX700 is the way to go but need feedback please. I'm having a really tough time trying to figure out if any Sony model is worth the extra money versus the AX700. I don't need a handle and I don't need the SDI option. Everything seems to be built off the AX700 model whereas the grip setup of the HXR-NX80 doesn't seem to be worth the extra money, and I don't think the 5Ghz Wifi on the PXW-Z90 is worth the extra money (but as always I could be 100% wrong). I film live soccer games on a weekly basis, where the team then uses the film to breakdown and analyze the game. I typically set up the camcorder on a 10-20 foot tripod at center field. Image needs to be crisp, camcorder needs to adapt to cloudy and sunny days and night games under the lights, and on windy days the camera/tripod can shake a little regardless of the tripod being weighed or tethered down. Soccer can be quick paced at times and I need to be able to zoom when the ball/play is close to either end of the field. Any feedback/suggestions is greatly appreciated.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Hi John, I think you know the answer already -- the AX700 sounds like it would suit your needs just fine. My video (up above) explains the differences between the three models, and if you don't need the extra features of the NX80 or Z90 there is not much reason to spend the extra money. Electronically they are basically the same and will provide the exact same performance.

[@baldino.soccer]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia I placed an order for the AX700 (very excited). As I mentioned before, it'll be mounted on a 10-20 foot tripod. What's the best and easiest way to wirelessly/remotely view the live video feed if I'm out in the middle of nowhere? Not sure if I can use my cell phone as a hotspot and connect wirelessly to the camera via an app (for example)?

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

@@baldino.soccer Hi John, congratulations on the new camera. Unfortunately, I don't have an answer for that question. There are too many variables that need to be factored into a solution, plus I do not cover wireless connectivity in my master class because it doesn't wok very well and it is too complicated to setup.

[@baldino.soccer]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia Hey Doug, I just chatted with Sony and I kind of don't believe them about the following LOL. I bought the AX700 and I love it. But I do put it on a 20 foot tripod at times to record sporting events. I asked if there is a way to turn the camcorder on and off either remotely or through some kind of wired device, and they said No. I suggested the camcorder's remote, the Sony app (Imaging Edge), and asked for a wired option. I prefer not to drop the tripod during halftime for example just to shut off the camera, so hoping there is a logical option.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

As far as I know, the information you got from Sony is completely correct. The only way to power on/off the camera is by physically sliding the power switch --- or by killing/restoring power to the camera by pulling the battery or disconnecting the AC adapter, which is not something I would recommend doing. Why don't you just find a way to leave the camera powered up for the entire game, which would also ensure all your settings remain consistent.

[@LiveMusicOntario]

I just finished binge watching the full (subscribed at Vimeo) series over several days. There is way too much information in them to just watch once. They all have the same "tone" of presentation as this first chapter so if this appeals to you, you'll find the rest of them productive.

[@Randor10]

Great video Doug. This will be the third product I’ve purchased from Vortex.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Thank you Randy. I really appreciate your support.

[@tedpeters9845]

Hi, Doug: Bought your entire Master Class for my AX700. I think this is the best tutorial I have ever seen/read. I have been a photographer for 35 years, taught SLR/Mirrorless camera courses and sold those cameras for 15 years. Although have shot videos on my Sony mirror less, have now moved over to the video world with this purchase. The internal stabilizer on my camera works very well, would like to add a gimbal into the kit. Having some challenges in holding the camera steady. The gimbals I have been able to look at so far don't seem to have enough distance between the mounting bolt and the back of the gimbals. Do you have some suggestions? Thanks. Ted

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Hi Ted, thank you very much for the nice comments. It is great to get that kind of feedback and hear that my training has helped other people. Unfortunately I can't help you with you gimbal questions. I don't own a gimbal and have never shot with one. I'm sure they are useful products for other people but they do not fit my needs or shooting style. Good luck with your search.

[@normancalixte4199]

Thanks for sharing!

[@madihalukmani7182]

Hello Doug. Is the Digital Extender option not available on the NX80? Mine is grayed out. Thank you for your help.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Are you sure the camera is set for HD and not 4K?

[@stevestruthers6180]

I've had my eye on the NX80 for a while and don't know if I should buy it, or get a higher-end mirrorless camera and rig it up.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Well, those are two totally different kinds of cameras that are suited for different kinds of shooting. Kind of like not being able to decide between an SUV or a sports car -- it all depends on how/where you drive. Same thing with the camera. Once you figure out what/how you want to shoot, the decision should be simple. Good luck.

[@TBDmedia]

My biggest issue with this camera (I still love it) is I will record video outside checking to make sure I’m not washing out white through the view finder it looks fine then when I upload the quality is almost completely different. It’s so hard to tell when the final product will look like when the stuff on the view finder looks great but reflect nothing of what the actual file will look like. It’s very frustrating. Can anyone help?

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Well, It doesn't really matter what the video looks like in the viewfinder or flip-out LCD. The viewfinder and LCD are only supposed to be used for 1) Focusing 2) Composition and 3) Monitoring the camera's settings. You should never judge exposure, color, white balance, etc. just by how it looks in the viewfinder. The viewfinder was not designed for that purpose and your judgement of what looks good is too subject to the influence of the lighting and other environmental circumstances. As you have found, the viewfinder will almost always give you a false impression of what the video you are recording really looks like. But ironically, the video you are recording is ultimately all that matters. When you say "checking to make sure I’m not washing out white through the view finder" that is a red flag that tells me you are not setting the exposure properly because "not washing out white" is certainly not the main goal of exposure. And if you are not exposing correctly, then it makes me wonder what you are doing about white balance, picture profile settings, and the paint menus, which all affect the overall image quality. As you know, anyone can turn on a cell phone and shoot decent looking video, but a camera like the Z90 requires some skills and knowledge if you want to get great results. I highly recommend watching my Z90 master class and discover all that you've been missing about your camera. 🙂 vimeo.com/ondemand/z90

[@TBDmedia]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia thank you for responding Doug. I’m going to get the class on Vimeo because I really want to know how to use my camera better

[@rsharma3602]

Hi Doug very informative video about PXW-Z90. like it. Can you illustrate on SONY HDR-TD30V . Like how to pop-out from the screen and how to do manual focus. even play memory can write 3D BDMV. It burns 3D AVCHD that don't activate 3D mode in 3D TV. If I burn with Vegas pro 10 movies Brightness get lower in 3D Frame packing. Even in adv., they say 3D FULL HD 1080p but TV signal show 60i when played sony camera via 3D Tv. Kindly solve the issue.

[@nasserlukmani1012]

Hello Doug. High quality video indeed. I have used my AX53 for some years now and it has done an incredible job for my needs. After watching your videos however, i purchased the NX80 along with an ECM-VG1 shotgun mic. I am contemplating puchasing your course and would like to know; a. What percent of your course relates to NX80? b. Is the ECM-VG1 a good mic or would you recommend I buy the one you suggested? Thank you.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Hello Nasser. 99% of my master class applies to the NX80. There are only a few minor differences between the Z90 and the NX80, and I am careful to point them out when we get to them. The VG1 is just as good as the MS2 that I own, if you don't need stereo. The VG1 is basically the mono version of the MS2.

[@nasserlukmani1012]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia thank you. I purchased your course and looking forward to it. I think stereo is important and will get it replaced. Thank you.

[@VideoSpecialtiesLa]

Doug I have the NX80 and rented your class. Your instruction was great and well worth the cost. Even though I've had the camera nearly a year, I learned many new features and understand all functions much better. I highly recommend anyone with this camera renting your course. I have a theater type job coming up which will have some moving spotlighted performers mixed with stage wash evenly lit dancing segments. I have a newbie running the NX80 on Camera 3. I intend to put the camera in semi-auto mode for my less experienced operator. I am thinking of manually setting the white balance to match my other cameras and locking in the shutter manually. I will have the camera in auto iris and auto focus. I'm most worried about the spotlight overexposing with the auto iris. Do you think putting the AE Shift to -1, AGC Gain to 15db will keep the double spotlighted performers from over exposing? The camera operator won't know how to change anything on the camera. Any other suggestions are appreciated! By the way, I am recommending a friend with the FS5 take your course on that camera. Thanks!

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

I'm glad you liked the video. Thank you. To be honest, I don't have enough experience running the camera in the situation you describe to give you a definitive answer. My recommendation would be to go to a rehearsal or something ahead of time and experiment to find out what works best. I wouldn't use AGC, though or auto-shutter, though. I would try to find find some variation of auto-iris that gave me the best results. Spotlight and -1 EV are probably good ideas. And put speed down to -20 or something so changes are subtle. Good luck.

[@VideoSpecialtiesLa]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia Thanks for the quick reply and the advice.

[@userdjl]

Thinking about getting the AX700 and I don't know anything about this stuff. Something occurred to me - wouldn't it be advantageous to offer an optional monitor screen similar to the one on the camera? It could be a wired connection that plugs in to the body. Then when the camera is tripod mounted you would be able to make changes during recording without touching and jarring the camera - like changing the focus point or zooming. ...I just saw the part about the remote. I guess that would do most of what I was thinking.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Having an external monitor will not enable you to make any changes to the camera remotely. You will still need to touch the camera to make changes to focus, zoom, and other settings. If touching the camera while shooting causes unwanted movement then the solution is simply a better tripod. The importance of having a rock-solid tripod that prevents unwanted movement when the camera is touched, and yet still allows silky smooth pans and tilts, is one of the most underappreciated accessories by inexperienced video shooters.

[@userdjl]

Good point. When I referred to an optional monitor, I meant one similar to the one on the camera that would have the functionality to change focus, zoom, etc.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Well, the touch screen on the camera only allows you to change the focus point -- it has no function for zoom, panning, tilting, exposure adjustments, or any of the other functions that would require touching the camera. Obviously, you could connect a LANC remote control to help with zooming, but without the ability to also pan and tilt the camera to adjust for framing during the zoom it would be virtually worthless. A good tripod and some smooth shooting skills solves all. :-)

[@michaelmurphy654]

Doug, working my way thru the tutorial and after 20 years of Prosumer Camcorders, I believe i will get the most of the AX-700 than my 2 Sony , 5 Panasonic, and 1 Canon Camcorders from your tutorial. Is there any additional recommendations to the HLG/PP10 profiles.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Hi Michael, I'm glad you are finding the master class useful. No, I don't have an additional suggestions or profile recommendations for HLG, nor do I ever expect to. Three years after producing this video is still do not personally know a single person or company that uses an HLG workflow from the (any) camera all the way to delivery. Those people might be out there, but I don't know of anyone who uses HLG as it was intended. The reason is because HLG is not meant to be graded, so there's really no reason to use if if you won't be actually presenting your video to viewers that have HLG televisions or monitors. If you want the maximum dynamic range then shoot S-LOG instead of HLG.

[@kentphotographydavao5399]

Question what kind of camera you are using now to produce your video it was a nice & lens you use?

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

If I remember right, I shot myself for this video with my Sony F55 and a Sony 50mm cinema lens. But if I am not on-camera out in the woods, then all footage is from the Z90.

[@Bestone974]

Great presentation, Pls advice me best camera for wedding videography under 1500$, used or new one, plz reply.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Sorry, I prefer not to recommend specific cameras for other people because there are too many factors that need to be considered before making the best choice. Don't forget to look at used cameras too. Sometimes the best deal is a used camera. Good luck.

[@leichtfriedangi]

Thanks a lot! Do you recommend a spezific Picture Profile for the best look ? I have the AX700 to capture Theater & Concert Productions. When I review the footage in post - the footage is extremly grainy. As if I would have put the ISO super high... As we speake of ISO, is there a max.Level you suggest for the ISO? Thank you -. I hope you can help me here ;)

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Andrea, the answers to those questions are more much complicated than I can provide in a simply reply here on KZbin. If you really want to understand your camera and get the best performance from it then I will refer you to my 5-hour master class where cover all those topics and more. vimeo.com/ondemand/z90

[@dfrederick9132]

Hi Doug, I had the opportunity to rent a Sony z90, which I am glad to try before buying. I will be be recording a gallery installation in 4K at 24p and want to shoot some time lapse sequences. In watching your master class on time lapse, I am wondering if I can record time lapse in 30p and then switch my settings to record in 24p on the same SD card? It seems there would be a problem editing with 24p and 30p in one project. I do have 3 SD cards, but even if I record my time lapse on a different card, will I still be able to combine the 24p and 30p footage? By the way, I am finding your master class very helpful.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

I'm glad you to hear you like the master class. Thanks for the feedback. It is no problem to mix 24p and 30p on the same memory card. Also, it generally would not be a problem to mix a 30p time-lapse into a 24p production. But in the long run, it's probably just easier to record the time-lapses at 24p and keep the whole production the same.

[@588ta]

Hello Doug, Can this camera display Date and Time? I want to get into Video deposition work in my area Great Video.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Hi Timothy, no the Z90/NX80/AX700 do not have any way to overlay the date and/or time onto the video signal.

[@oordtfotografiefilm919]

Hi Doug, where can I find the Master Class? I have the NX80

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

You can find it here: vimeo.com/ondemand/z90 Thanks for asking.

[@asiannymphet2001]

Hi Doug, just finished watching your entire course on the AX700, thank you, I learned a lot! This is my first camcorder and I didn't understand most of the settings and I have no photography experience other than my phone. But I am still unclear on peaking. I am old with poor eyesight I so set my peak to medium and red. I am not clear on whether I am supposed to dial in the focus until I see the red outline around everything or until the red disappears. The reason I am confused is that when I focus on the corner of my couch, the entire back cushion is red, not just the edges. Thanks in advance

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Peaking will appear on the edges of whatever is in focus. So, in an ideal situation, you only want to see peaking on the part of the picture that you want to be in focus, such as the face of a person you are interviewing. One way we area able to make a 2D image look like a 3D image is through the selective use of depth of field. You want the important subject to be in focus and the rest of the picture to be as out of focus as you are able to make it. That is accomplished through your choice of aperture, focal length, and composition. In the case of your couch, if the entire back cushion shows peaking, then the entire back cushion is in focus. If that is not what you want, then you need to change something.

[@asiannymphet2001]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia Awesome, thank you for your reply!

[@tedpeters9845]

Good Morning, Doug. On a shoot two days ago, had the Moire effect show up on two people's tops. Any settings to avoid this on the Sony AX700. Have recommended your master class to some friends who also purchased the same camera. Thanks, Ted

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

HI Ted, I assume that you've already checked to make sure the moire was actually on the recorded video and not just in the viewfinder. If so, then you could try reducing the the detail settings a little to see if that would prevent it from happening again.

[@untrechtd]

Hi Doug. You may have already covered this but can the AX700 be upgraded later to an NX80 or Z90 by purchasing the appropriate options or do you need to decide up front?

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

You might be able to buy the top-handle as an accessory for the AX700 (I'm not sure) but you would not be able to upgrade other aspects of the camera that make it different from the other two. And even if you can buy the top-handle separately I'm sure it would be expensive. You would be much better off buying one of the other two cameras right from the start.

[@TheTruckerJohnShow]

Just finished your master class on the Z90.....now I fully understand the camcorder. Thanks Doug for such an easy to understand class, you are a great instructor. Do you have any plans for a master class on the Sony FX6? Thanks again.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Thanks for the feedback! I'm glad you found the video series helpful. Yes, I'm working on a 5-hour FX6 master class right now and it should be released in February. Thanks for asking.

[@bobhanuman65]

This is a fantastic course. I just purchased the camera and it really got me through all settings and operations and menus really quickly. The revised picture profile was an amazing help for me setting up the camera and getting great color. Thank you so much. Your course is precise and very well presented. I will take the log course for Resolve. Wish you could do an in depth Resolve training.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Thanks for the nice comments, Bob!

[@blaylock1978]

Hi Doug, I have bought a few of your master classes (This and the Stock Video one). They're awesome! I sold my first stock video clip... of cows! I have a quick question too. In one of your videos in this master class, you explain how Face Detection and Tracking work. But on my camera, it seems to only work in HD. I have it on Auto-Focus and Optical Zoom only (from my notes from your class). Do they not work on 4K? Thanks in advance.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Hi Stephen, I don't have by Z90 handy right now to check, and I but as far as I remember face detect works fine in 4K. It is probably due to some other setting you have chosen. Hopefully you have figured it out by now. And than you you for your support!

[@blaylock1978]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia Thanks for the reply. I had just tried a few more things and found it. It was proxies. For some reason, you can't have proxies recording whiling using Face Detection or Tracking. Weird. But that was it.

[@longspur6914]

Just wanted to say I have little to no experience with any type of camera or videography. I bought a Sony nX80 camera and your lesson videos and I can’t imagine any better tutorial. It was very easy to follow and the format was great. I would like to ask your opinion on a microphone choice. What microphone would you recommend to get the best audio for Outdoor environments? I want to use this camera to capture wildlife sounds but also do interviews. Thank you for your help.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Thank you for the compliments. You're going to need at least two different microphones. First, a shotgun microphone, such as Sony's ECM-MS2 to mount on the camera for wildlife and nature. And second a lavalier microphone, such as Sony's ECM-44, to use for interviews. Those are the TYPES of microphones you need and I can personally recommend those Sony models, but there are many other options available depending on your budget.

[@longspur6914]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia Thank you, I'm trying to capture very high-quality audio in my video's, it's almost more important than the video. I looked at the Sony ECM-MS2 and it looks nice, but you did mention other options depending on budget. What Shotgun mic would you recommend getting to achieve the absolute best audio that will attach to my camera? I don't mind spending a little more if I can get better audio. Do I need a mic with Stereo recording to capture nature audio? As far as a Lavalier, I have a Rode Go2 wireless Lavalier System (3.5 plug), can I use it at the same time with my XLR connected shotgun mic on my Sony nX80? Like I said I am a beginner so I'm sorry for all the questions. Thank you again

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

@@longspur6914 You should be able to use the 3.5mm audio input and the XLR at the same time, but I wouldn't recommend it. You should really make sure all your audio comes into the camera via XLR or the MI-SHOE. 3.5mm is consumer gear. The shotgun I use the most on all my cameras is the Sony ECM-680s Stereo Shotgun Microphone. It's bigger and heavier than the MS2, but if you want really good audio, that is the mic to use. You'll also want to put a Rycote Softie Wind-Screen (7" long, 0.7 to 0.8" diameter hole) on the 680s to help block wind. Be warned that no matter how good your mic is, getting clean audio in today's world is nearly impossible because of man made noise in the distance -- cars, planes, people talking, shutter snaps from nearby photograhers, lawn mowers, leaf blowers, etc. You really have to be far off the beaten track to get away from man mdade noise. At least 90% of the audio I record when I'm shooting wildlife and nature cannot be used for those reasons. Hopefully you have quieter places to shoot.

[@longspur6914]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia Thank you again for all your help. All of your lessons, suggestions, and advice have been invaluable to me.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

@@longspur6914 I'm glad I could help. Happy shooting!

[@djkikikeproducciones]

Que exelente tutorial aprendi bastante ya me decidi por mi camara proxima que me comprare saludos desde lima peru

[@bekacunha]

Hi Doug. I'm from Brazil and would like to buy your full Master Class on Vimeo. Can you tell me if your videos have subtitles in Portuguese?

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Hi Beka, unfortunately I cannot do translations for my videos. They are just barely worth my time to do in English. Thank you for asking.

[@fendertc90]

Great video! I have decided to purchase the Z90 for making work videos, but more importantly for recording snowboarding and dirt bike footage. I will be purchasing your classes as well. Quick question: Are there any bundles that you recommend? I am basically staring from scratch and don't know where to begin. Thanks!

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

I'm glad that you like the video and I'm sure you will love your new Z90. I'm not sure what you mean by "bundles"? If you are asking about a bundles for the camera and accessories I don't think you would need a bundle. The camera comes ready-to-use right out of the box so you just may want to buy an extra battery or two and start shooting!

[@2PlaysAway]

Does the NX80 have the same digital 192x zoom option like the AX700?

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Neither camera has a 192x zoom. And if it did, it'd look like crap and nobody would use it anyway.

[@Malecare]

What is the battery life? Can you plug into a wall socket for continuous external power?

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Battery life is variable depending how you are using the camera, but in general, you can expect to get about an hour of service from the standard battery that comes with the camera. Yes, you can plug the camera in and run it on AC.

[@scarborosasquatchstation1403]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia: Good info on Battery Life !!!

[@asiannymphet2001]

Also Doug, one more question, white balance temperature, I am shooting indoors with no other lighting than 3 point softbox lights. what temperature is ideal between 3200 and 5600?

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Who knows? All lights have different color temperature, plus there is ambient light to be taken into consideration as well. Whenever you are shooting under man-made lighting you should always white balance with a white card after the lighting is setup and you are almost ready to roll. I almost never vary from that rule.

[@asiannymphet2001]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia Awesome, thank you for your reply!

[@Sokol_]

Hello Doug. Great material. Thank you for this. Im interested in buying NX80. I have two questions that is very important for me. How big SD card can i put into this camera ? I want to make long shots ( 1-2 hour ) in 4K 30p. If one card is full second one kicks in automaticly?

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Yes, in most circumstances (not all) the camera will automatically switch to the other card when the first card is full. However, since it is possible to record with the camera's best 4K codec for 2.5 hours on a single 128GB SDHC/SDXC (U3) memory card, you shouldn't need anything bigger than that for long shots that go 1-2 hours.

[@Sokol_]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia Thank you so much! Best wishes!

[@lamkavangkhua1459]

Nx 70, X70, Nx 200 and Nx 80 which have best performance in low light... And which is best in video quality output...both Auto & in Manual Mode... What is better.in same price Canon, Panasonic?

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Sorry, I don't do camera comparisons or shopping guides.

[@lamkavangkhua1459]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia okay..thanks anyway

[@dinoatcharterdotnet]

how long can the sony Z90 record for? sadly the DSLR I have stops at about 30 minutes. and I was thinking of getting the Z90 for conference recording gigs

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

The Z90 can record forever. It has two card slots and when one card fills up the camera automatically switches to the other slot without missing a frame. And then you can hot-swap the first card and replace with a fresh card. Then the camera will switch to the new card in the first slot and just keep right on going when the 2nd card fills up. So in theory you could record forever without stopping.

[@clamaround]

Great work as usual, Doug!

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Thank you!

[@francisbvp]

Hi Doug brilliant tutorial on the NX80 that good ive rented it for a second time mainly because ive a crap memory One question after following your steps for triggering an external monitor does this work with the Atomos Ninja V As i cant seem to make it work Working in HD Usually filming in 1080 and 24p can you please assist Thanks

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

HI Francis, thank you for the nice comments and I'm glad you liked the video. Unfortunately I've never used any of the Atomos products and do not not know anything about their capabilities or how to set them up. Maybe you can find an Atomos forum someplace and see if someone can help you there. Good luck.

[@OldFliersGroup]

Bought the NX80 to replace my loved HDR-CC700VE. Learning how to transfer video OFF the camera (rather important Sony!). Going down the USB/Ethernet path. Is there a tutorial on this?

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Number one rule: Don't use the camera for transfer. You should take the memory card out of the camera and use a reader. You can buy a reader for $10. It will be faster, easier, and save wear and tear on the camera.

[@OldFliersGroup]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia Thanks Doug. All sorted now.

[@gldnpyramid6411]

Hi, I watched this video and the one that discusses the Nx100 and Z150. How do the Z90 and Z150 measure up in your opinion? Thank you

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

The Z150 and Z90 are basically the same camera internally -- but in different body styles. If you prefer a bigger camera with traditional lens controls and more external buttons, then the Z150 is the better choice. On the other hand, if someone wants a much smaller camera, then the Z90 is the right choice. The only feature worth mentioning that is different between them is auto-focus. The Z90 does have a superior Phase-Detect AF system. But other than that, the choice really comes down to what style of camera body suits your needs best.

[@gldnpyramid6411]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia That is very helpful information, thank you for your reply!

[@saewms2616]

Hi sir. Does your Master Class include test footage? I just received my NX80 and want to learn as much as possible.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Hello. I'm not sure what you mean by test footage? The master class includes a lot of example footage of different settings and shooting techniques, but I'm not sure what you mean by test footage.

[@saewms2616]

Doug Jensen Hi. Yes that’s exactly what I meant...example footage. Thanks so much for your prompt reply and sorry for the confusion.

[@bongbong6943]

How come there is no Black Balance adjustment in the NX80? is that only available in other model ?

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Good question. None of these cameras has a black balance menu because that function is done automatically by the camera.

[@alyanni]

Does anybody agree that an AX700 is the same set that NX80 except that has not XLRs Jacks included??

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

No, there are more differences than that. Did you watch the video or not?

[@kfraser6046]

Hey Doug - Thanks for the great review. If I understood you, these cameras share the same sensor. How well would the video from one of these cameras color match and otherwise with each other... say if the z90 was primary shot and ax700 was at a different angle? I'm considering a setup like that.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

As far as I know, the Z90 should look exactly like the AX700 when they are both using the same settings. Of course, the recording quality can be a little better with the Z90 due to the better recording formats (10-bit 4:2:2 and/or higher bit rates) available on that camera, but those difference would only visible if you heavily graded the cameras in post. If you don't stress the footage, they should look the same.

[@backcountrybrian3746]

Doug, Thanks for the Masters Class...great help! BTW, what battery charger do you recommend other than the pretty lame one Sony includes? Also, what have you found to be the best aftermarket batteries? Thanks!

[@dilipchauhan7994]

Great 👍class

[@8686joedog]

Would have definitely purchased had you included the streaming functions in your course. This is a big feature of the camera, bummer you left it out.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

No regrets about that decision! :-) It is a bummer Sony made that part of the camera so damn complicated it isn't worth my time to try to teach. Even Sony can't explain how to use it.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

BTW, in my Z750 book it takes five pages and 42 separate steps to enable live streaming. The Z90 would basically be the same. Too complicated.

[@8686joedog]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia lol, I hope not. I'll dive into it tonight. I'm hoping it's just - connect camera to phone's hotspot, enter rtmp stream and key and go! My pxw-x70 is ridiculously complicated, but hopefully rtmp made things easier by not needing an encoder.

[@user-pp4tv7hk7y]

totally solved my confusion, thank you so much

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

You're welcome.

[@DrHansBrewery]

Thanks Doug for an amazing course. So worth the money! I highly recommend it. Ive experienced som issues with the picture profile you recommend. I found the Colors way off and its the picture being noisy. I WB with a grey card and get a good exposure. Any recommendations or ideas?

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Hi, I'm glad you like the video and I don't have any complaints whatsoever about the colors or noise. The camera is great. I've got 19 Z90's I'm running on major television show right this very minute. If your camera doesn't look good, reset it and them make certain you are following ALL of the advice I provide regarding paint settings, gain, white balance, exposure, and so forth. If your camera doesn't look good with my settings and techniques it is either broken or you have done something differently from what I recommend. Why use a gray card for white? What do you mean by "good exposure"? How do you know it is good?

[@MaximusPanin]

Many thanks! If we compare the younger models (AX100, AX53) with AX700. Are they worth the attention ?

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

The AX700 is almost the same as a Z90 and NX80. I wouldn't touch the other two cameras that you mention.

[@MaximusPanin]

You are not quite right. I am not a journalist and I do not need as many functions as on older models. After the advent of AX700, prices of AX53 and AX100 fell and became more affordable. If you discard the functionality and pay attention to the picture quality, is it as high-quality as AX700 ?

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

@@MaximusPanin ​ How would I know? Send me one and I will test it against my Z90. I don't do buying guides. I teach people how to use their camera, and that is different than telling them what camera to buy. I stand by my earlier statement. I wouldn't touch the other two cameras, but you may have different considerations.

[@mikethorkildson556]

Hi Doug, and thanks for putting this out there. Curious, I am looking for a camera, and everything leads me to the Sony line, but I have concerns in regards to low light videos. I shoot concert videos at my local high school where the auditorium is completely dark, and the stage is really well lit. I assume the best camera for this would be the Z90, and do you cover this type of a topic in your masterclass? I am a newbie to this world (currently recording them on my iPhone 8+ in 4K, but have to do it from a distance and the quality is good, but not great. The Z90 appears to be the one, but would love your input also. Thanks!!!

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Hi Mike, it's impossible for me to recommend a specific camera for someone else because there are just too many variables to consider. But with that said, if the stage stage at the school is really well lit, as you say, then almost any camera should be able to do a good job. It does not matter if the rest of the auditorium is dark because you are shooting the stage and not the rest of the auditorium. In other words, the contrast between the stage and auditorium is a non-issue. Compared to your iPhone, yes the Z90 would provide a huge jump in performance and allow you to zoom much closer to the action on stage. No question about that. Don't forget that you will also need a video tripod.

[@mikethorkildson556]

@@DougJensenVortexMedia Thank you, I appreciate it!

[@sushantsirsclasses6206]

such a nice and nformative video. I have a question. Can nx80 be used while charging?

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

I'm pretty sure the camcorder must be turned off in order to charge the battery. It cannot power the camera and charge the battery simultaneously.

[@tedpeters9845]

Please send me the link to sign up for your master class. I have the FDRAX700. Great intro in Chapter one.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

Hi Ted, as noted above, here is the link. Thanks for asking. vimeo.com/ondemand/z90

[@paulallenMacca]

Thanks for sharing this video, which camcorder would be more useful to me as i mainly Film Common Buzzards in the Sky id really like a camcorder that locks really fast onto the focusing,would the picture quality in 4K be any better than on the Sony FDR-AX53.

[@DougJensenVortexMedia]

The Z90 and NX80 would look exactly the same as each other, and both of them are better than the AX53. However, if your primary goal is to shoot wildlife then I would suggest you get a Z190 instead. That will give you a far better camera plus a 25x lens instead of a 12x lens. Auto-focus won't be as good, but probably good enough for birds. You ought to be using manual focus for wildlife anyway.

[@stevehutchesson1321]

John, I own and still use a AX53 and it is a nice and easy to use 1080 camera, it will shoot 4k but its not in the same class as the later AX700 with the large sensor. The AX53 has far better stabilisation but the AX700 in 4k x 30 fps is visually better, it has a far better viewfinder, can be used full manual, built in ND filters and generally a more sophisticated device.