Sony FDR AX1 4K video camera hands on review

[@7863348]

No doubt about it. One of if not the best reviews I've seen on KZbin. Thank you very much for this.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Paul Short Those are very kind words ... thank you.

[@andrestreaming]

Maarten, it's incredible how you're consistent and super professional on your reviews. You're a master! Thanks again!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I'm thankful for your very kind words, thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@aslaksockcraft]

The flickering you noticed is created by the lamps. The light flickers in a manner that the camera notices but not slow enough for yourself to notice. They say lamps are [X]hz, that basically means 30hz light you should capture at 30 fps. Thats why one should use film lamps or natural lighting.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Aslak SockCraft Thanks for adding this information.

[@lorenzbruckner189]

Thanks Maarten for your informative video! It must have been really futuristic back then, when not everyone had a 4K at home, but you made and uploaded it in 4K anyhow. I never guessed, that that would've been already possible in 2014...

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I appreciate the kind words. Although I was skeptical about 3D, I was a 4K supporter from the first time I saw it. For the last several years I have produced the videos for all cameras that support it in 4K.

[@trwogijam]

THANKS! This is a great piece of work. I've been struggling with some features of the AX1 and appreciate your effort here.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Natalia Laska I'm happy to hear you found it useful, thanks for the kind words.

[@architecturefilmfestivalro5098]

Very nIce review! I own a FDR-AX1. The one thing I am missing is the fact that limiting on the audio CANNOT be turned of, there is always compression/limiting. That is a bummer. If I would have known I would have bought a different camera. I had a hard time discussing this with Sony, it took a while until they admitted that it was in the design that it could not be turned off.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for your kind words, appreciated. If you keep the levels low, you can keep it from being overly obvious.

[@oceanofgrassfilm6623]

Any thoughts on image noise? I have this cam and have extensive video noise, esp in blue skies. Are there any settings to help reduce this? Adding Gain certainly makes this much worse.

[@ForViewingOnly]

11:53 Recording a mono source on two channels, one normal gain and the other low gain in case of big spikes of volume... Ingenious idea, thanks Maarten!!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

ForViewingOnly You're welcome - always happy to hear I've been able to provide some helpful guidance.

[@megamediker]

Great review, so much to learn from it, for somebody like me, who bearly starts filming and wants to achieve more than just handycam. So thank You Maarten great job!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+megamediker I appreciate the kind words, thanks for commenting.

[@bwest6275]

Excellent overview! If I may ask, is the manual focus ring mechanical with hard stops, or an electronic ring? Was wondering if a follow-focus would work on this camera.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Brian Westfield Thanks for the kind words, I always appreciate hearing from a fan. It's focus-by-wire (electronic). And it's speed driven, so completely inconsistent for follow focus use. Not that it can't be done, but ...

[@bwest6275]

+Maarten Heilbron thank you. Bummer, was hoping that beautiful ring would have a mech option. I guess FS5 it is for me. Really wanted to go with this camera :/

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Brian Westfield I'm not sure why so many video cameras don't have a focus ring with mechanical link and defined travel to enable rack focus. Or worse, have a single focus/zoom ring with a switch to select one or the other.

[@sarahclosson187]

Thanks for the helpful review! I've been on the hunt for a camera for a while now and this one has made the top of my list for sure. I'm going to think about it for a bit still of course - I am worried about the zoom and focus rings a bit but the other cool things about this camera might make up for them. The example footage was really helpful, and the review was very thorough! Thanks again! :D

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+PetticoatPig Thank you for the kind words, it's always reassuring when I hear that one of my videos has been useful.

[@AlainHubert]

HD on KZbin, be it 1080p or 4K is a real joke. Compressed beyond repair.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

AlainHubert It is clearly less than the original viewed on a 5K iMac.

[@MansellIreland]

Wonderful review. Thank you for explaining everything in great detail.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Mansell Ireland I'm so glad to hear you appreciate my work - thanks for the kind words.

[@ilichgonzalez2381]

Well I know this was 6 years ago and you’ve completely forgotten by now but I started at a new job recently and they have this camera and expect me to use it regularly only problem is everything I film comes out supper grainy even when my gain is at 0 db. But your footage and the Sony official test footage for the camera both look super crisp and don’t have much noise. Is there something that you can remember that you switched that made a big difference?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I can't think of anything - other than to ask about your lighting. Also, what is your shutter duration?

[@ilichgonzalez2381]

@@MaartenHeilbron I’m filming in a surgical room so it’s super bright. And my shutter is 1/48. I’m filming at 24fps, F3.6 and 3840x2160 100.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@ilichgonzalez2381 Unless you're producing for cinematic projection, you videos will look better at 30fps and 1/60 shutter.

[@farazahmedofficialuk]

excellant overview. just bought this camera and was looking to learn more about it. thanks you maarten

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+arisenn ray It's always nice to hear that my videos have found an appreciative audience. Thanks for commenting.

[@EssentialRC]

Thanks Marteen. Great info in this vid. Really enjoyed it. I film fast moving objects (large radio controlled jets and planes). Currently with a Panasonic HC-X900. Looking for an upgrade. Think this might be too big and complicated for my needs but thanks.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Essential RC Thanks for your kind comment, I appreciate that.

[@l.ellei.sorensen4121]

What filters would you order for this camera? This is a wonderful camera I have had in a case and will be using for my first documentary this month. I was intimidated by it but, must grab the bull by the horns. Please advise--I'm excited!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Awis I The only filter I would always want is ND, but in this case it's built in. For the remainder, it really depends on what you're shooting and the effect you're trying to create.

[@l.ellei.sorensen4121]

This is too cool. I bought one and need your help. I am a girl...woman and, I'm so excited about this camera. I am buying a DUZI to go with the rest of my gear. Thank you--I'll be asking more questions. I really dig this video. You're so calm, cool and educationally right.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Awis I Wow. I'm humbled by your praise. Ask away, always happy to help.

[@l.ellei.sorensen4121]

I'll be, knocking- Thank you!

[@parklexsouthafrica2002]

Any advice on how to improve the noisy footage when set on manual mode, especially in low light situations? I find even on 0db gain there is noise?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Which profile/gamma curve are you using, or have you tried? If your shutter speed is 1/60, try 1/30, I'm assuming your iris is already fully open. My guidance then would be to increase the amount of light in the scene. Alternately, turning up the gain slightly might help, so the dark areas are a little brighter.

[@LouisODwyer]

Excellent video, very helpful. As it happens, I just ordered one last week. The one complaint I see people making is that the camera is not so good in low light, but there you go, I've already bought it!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words. I had good success in relatively low light conditions - you see some samples in the video. When you're done, please post a link to your video in a comment here.

[@jeffpierce3300]

Maaeten, great video. Do you care to share your current camera setup? I can't seem to get the same quality images that you are getting.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Jeff Pierce Jeff: I had the camera on load to prepare the review, and I didn't keep a record of settings - except as you see them in the video. My approach is usually to use the highest quality recording setting, usually to expose and focus manually, and to keep the "effects" to a minimum. I hope this helps, if you have a specific question about a specific setting, feel free to DM.

[@chrisdeantonio1498]

Thanks for this review. I found it very helpful. I have this camera on it's way for a band performance on New Year's Eve. Can you recommend good settings for shooting a stage, similar to the one in your example footage?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Christopher DeAntonio I would recommend being in full manual - exposure, focus, white balance and audio. Shutter 1/30 or 1/60. F5.6 to F8. Set the gain using the 100% zebra, although you may find it useful to over-exposure any light fixtures in the shot, so let your eye guide as well. Use one-push to set white balance. Good luck - it takes some practice to get those kind of scenes right.

[@AlexTabachnyy]

Wow! Amazing review and one of the most detailed :-) Thank you very much, it was very helpful.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words - glad I was able to assist.

[@ΚώσταςΕφραιμίδης-φ2δ]

Thank Maarten for information. Hugs from Greece

[@MaartenHeilbron]

***** I appreciate the kind words. A little warmth from Greece is appreciated on these cold days in Canada.

[@ProjectPlay]

+Mansell Heilbron +reza karimi +PetticoatPig Do you think which is better for filming some unboxing videos and some field-trip videos? The FDR-AX1E, FDR-AX100E, or the VG900E? These three cameras cover a huge different price range, I don't know which to choose from. I already have a Canon 70D but I really enjoyed the stablization func. provided by Sony's cameras. I decided to trade the camera and upgrade to the Sony camcoorders. I'm a individual cameraman and I used to film some video (/movies) with my friends and post it on the KZbin Channel. Thanks for help.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+ProjectPlay First, my apologies, this just appeared in my comments approval list. All three are fine choices. If you need 4K, eliminate the VG900. If you need XLR inputs (although there are other ways to achieve this) eliminate the AX100. However, in most ways for hobbyist work, the AX1 is overkill (and a huge camera to lug around). Hope this helps.

[@ProjectPlay]

+Maarten Heilbron thanks for your advices. it really helps. thanks for your reply :) keep making high quality reviews. always support you!

[@TheJuddies]

Thanks for the detailed review and for being so helpful. I am hoping you might be able to shed some light on an issue I am facing? I have been using this camera for a few months now and filmed a number of weddings with it. I am struggling with low light shooting especially, (more than I thought I would), as well as trying to match colors with our second camera the Sony NEX VG30. I have come much closer to sorting out the color issue by adjusting the gamma and matrix settings but low light still causes issues. I film in HD mode as opposed to 4k. Even with the aperture at 1.6 on the FDR-AX1, I have found the NEX at 3.2 produces far better low light footage. I bump up the gain on the FDR to compensate but once I hit around 9db I find it the noise too much. We use camera mounted lights and try and keep it zoomed all the way out when possible. Just wondering if there's any suggestions or settings I'm missing that might help? Thank you in advance

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Logan Judd Thanks for your kind words. I returned the camera to Sony after the review, so I'm not really in a position to assist with your question. I can imagine that matching these two will be a challenge - the sensors and processors as well as their functions are quite different. There may be videographer sites where you can engage with others who are facing the same challenge. In addition to gamma and matrix, the white balance might help align the two for colour, but not certain what to suggest for low light grain. Good Luck.

[@TheJuddies]

No problems thank you for the response

[@paulolsen3564]

How does sensor size compare to full frame DSLR 4K cameras?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

paul olsen Sadly, it's small - an 18Mp 7.8mm (1/2.3) sensor. I wouldn't consider that as the only factor - but the AX100 (reviewed here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iXm2oZ9_Zd1prLc) has a large 1" sensor.

[@francescopiana9375]

Consider anyway that many full frame DSLR 4K cameras crop the sensor at 4k: canon 5d IV around 1,7 and 1d-x II around 1,35 in exemple.

[@chinprasith]

Could you tell me if I can shoot for HD resolution only in Sony AX1 4k?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Prasith Chin Not really understanding the question - the camera can shoot in both 4K and HD resolutions. In addition, when shooting in 4K, you can use your editing software to crop the image to HD size - let me know if that doesn't cover it.

[@francisdsouza5829]

Sir can we record Full HD video using SDXC cards in this cam ?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

You need XQD cards to record video.

[@NORFIE123456]

Hiya Maarten, Love this comprehensive video of yours!! The camera seems like an awesome one to upgrade to from a DSLR like im using at the moment. I noticed that you said the camera has 2 SDHC/XC card slots and im wondering if you managed to find out whether these were for SD recording or not? Either through firmware updates or otherwise. Im used to working on SD cards and dont really like the idea of buying new XQD cards just for this camera when i have so many SD cards knocking about. I presume that XQD cards fall in the SxS card family? Look forward to hearing from you soon! Thanks

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I'm sorry, I returned the camera after the review and have not seen any updates. Not sure if XQD and SxS cards are in the same family - but they are both Sony pro video products. Hope this helps.

[@danjetjunior]

Hi Martin, Great video and thanks for sharing! Quick question; when you say that it can be shot at 4K and edited in HD; it is able to be cropped in post; would this mean I would have to shoot the footage in 4K and convert it to HD? There would be no distortion of any kind? Also, would it be fair to say that 4K would be much better to film in low light settings? Cheers! Dan

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Cameraman Dan thanks for the kind words. You can convert by down-rezzing, or by cropping to HD resolution without loss of quality - it actually seems to me that the down-res footage is of better quality that shooting in HD, but not sure that's a realistic thought. I'm not sure that 4K is inherently better in low light, those are factors of the lens and sensor independent of resolution.

[@danjetjunior]

***** Thanks for your response! I will definitely look into it!

[@NetvoTV]

Do you think Sony still going to make comsumer camcorder since they don't announce anything in NAB? Will they make AX100 Mark 2?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It's very hard to tell - and Sony has become more secretive than Apple. It's worth mentioning that most of their older models are still perfectly valid. And NAB would never be the place to announce a consumer device.

[@NetvoTV]

Maarten Heilbron oh I see, thought NAB is all about filming so consumer camcorder will also announce there. AX100 is discontinued here in Malaysia, wish they will going to make a camcorder as many manual setting as it, buttons, ND Filter, + 1000 fps, guess that will release new camcorder when 4K 60p is available.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

NAB = National Association of Broadcasters - it's a trade show for TV networks, stations and the producers who create content for them. Always interesting to watch though, particularly as "consumer" equipment and software becomes close to pro power (like Premiere, Final Cut or Atomos).

[@NetvoTV]

Maarten Heilbron I see, thanks for the info!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

always my pleasure

[@LautaroLopezVara]

Great review! I have a question, does it have Interlazed modes for the frame rate? (example, 50i)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

That was a long time ago, but checking the manual, I see only progressive frame rates, not interlaced. Thanks for your kind words.

[@bolddiamond]

ABSOLUTELY EXCELLENT REVIEW! THANK YOU!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

thanks for the kind words - but your caps lock key seems to be stuck

[@weydsonbiblia8608]

Does this camera shoot with auto focus?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Yes. Or without.

[@gordeipetrik1109]

Hello! Can this camera record video directly to the hard disc? Best regards, Gordei

[@MaartenHeilbron]

This camera does not have a hard disc. It records to memory cards.

[@gordeipetrik1109]

Maarten Heilbron, Thanks!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

always my pleasure

[@ajayaroraa]

Hi please tell me which sensor is better 1" or 1/2.3. And please tell is FDR ax1's sensor is equivalent to dslr full frame cameras.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

All is explained here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l33PdoClaMmaq5o. Note that 1/2.3 is not mentioned. While reasonable for video (even 4K is only 8Mp), I would consider 1" to be the minimum for stills. The AX1's sensor is 1/2.3 and only a tiny fraction (28mm square compared to 860mm square) of the size of a full frame sensor. And note that full frame is the same in DSLR and mirrorless cameras.

[@ajayaroraa]

hi this link is not working kzbin.info/www/bejne/l33PdoClaMmaq5o.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I just checked, and it's working for me.

[@ajayaroraa]

thanks its working .

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Phew!

[@FairytaleVideobiz]

Well done tutorial nicest I have seen. Your video keeps moving at a good pace. Thanks. I have a question can you record in HD 1920x1080 to both cards at the same time? For a backup recording.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

FairytaleVideobiz That you for your very kind comment. And honestly, I don't know (I didn't have two cards, so I couldn't try it.) but I suspect that, unless the camera firmware has been updated since my review, it's "no". The menus had no way to select whether the camera did dual recording - or any other setting.

[@colehamilton5917]

I am an indie filmmaker preparing to go to the Middle-East to film a feature film shot in the style of a travel log. Would you recommend this camera for that?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

If you’ve looked at the specifications and they match your needs, it would be a reasonable choice. In 2022, there are better choices.

[@SkintSNIPER262]

How much 4k filming time do you think you can get with a 32GB XQD Card?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

***** According to the manual, you can record 25 minutes at 150Mbps, 35 at 100Mbps and 60 at 60Mbps data rates.

[@SkintSNIPER262]

***** Is the camera compatible with Phantom powered Shotgun Microphones?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

***** You'll find the answer at 11:00 in the video.

[@SkintSNIPER262]

Opps. I guess I missed that part. Haha.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

***** No worries, I hate to think I'd missed two questions - I should have mentioned the time/space for XQD cards.

[@francescopiana9375]

Good afternoon, how big would be a 4k 60p video file per minute? Which kind of memory cards are required? Thank you for the video.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It is my pleasure ... the answers are in the video. The AX1 uses XQD cards, the data rate is 150Mbits.

[@francescopiana9375]

Thank you, I have totally missed that point.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

No worries, I speak very quickly.

[@paulallenMacca]

Would i see a big difference in a 4K camcorder at 4096 X 2160 than 3840 x 2160

[@MaartenHeilbron]

No, there's a minor difference in aspect ratio - 4096 is the cinema (DCI) standard, which is officially 4K. The UHD 4K 3840 is a compromised TV standard. If you are producing for cinema projection, 4096 is preferred, otherwise, no difference.

[@paulallenMacca]

Maarten Heilbron thanks for the info

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Always my pleasure.

[@benquicks]

Is that camera sold at stores?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Ben Bournene You can buy it at better camera dealers in Toronto.

[@benquicks]

***** Sorry to see that i wonder if you know any camera online dealers in Toronto?

[@francisdsouza5829]

Is it available in India? Pls reply me Sir

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I am not in India, so have no idea, but thanks for asking.

[@kimi6659]

Nice video. But i have one question. I have the same camera but i can't get videos from camera to my phone because it's .CPI . If you know how to fix this please reply

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks. To get videos from your phone, first import them to your computer. Then use software to make them compatible (in size and format) with your phone and copy them to the phone.

[@heroproducciones4477]

Maarten thank you very much for your prompt response seguire com auditioning camera.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Romer Herrera It's my pleasure.

[@nightcrawlernightcrawler8612]

HI there is it better than NX5U?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Nightcrawler Nightcrawler I have no idea, I've never had the opportunity to shoot with the NX5U.

[@liamdern4827]

Excellent review< thank you.

[@M66productions]

how do I adjust the wide aperture on mine? I really want the blurred background look but cant find the setting to adjust this!!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

M66 Productions It's not exactly a setting. 1) Select a pretty background 2) Zoom in as far as you can 3) Move the subject close to the camera and far from the background and focus 4) Open the iris to its largest setting (the smallest F number possible) 5) If you have an ND filter, set the shutter in the range 1/60 to 1/120 (I assume you're shooting video - otherwise the shutter probably doesn't matter). 6) Use the ND filter to balance the exposure, using the zebra to set the (white) skin tones at 70%. I hope this helps, but you really need advice from Darius Khondji - the master who filmed "Magic in the Moonlight", with some of the most beautiful defocussed backgrounds (particularly for Emma Stone) I've ever seen.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

M66 Productions Thanks for the question: I made a video to illustrate the solution. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fJjTeZeDrdtlqMk

[@mReLuSiV3]

Excellent and very insightful review

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words.

[@sb4photos]

G'day. Was wondering. I have hired this camera to try "before I buy" and was wondering why when I set it to 4k the image on the camera LCD becomes cropped. And when set back to 1080 it's a wider viewing range ? Any thoughts?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I'm not sure, that didn't happen to me.

[@sb4photos]

output display must of been buggy.. worked ok

[@temurabdullaev7313]

Why is there - 12:26 - fractional frames and not integral 60 or 30? What does it do?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

We all assume that settings like 29.97 are understood by our viewers - but there is an explanation. There's more detail in this video - kzbin.info/www/bejne/sGLVlZ19gdKmmpo - but to summarize, the fractional settings reflect a compromise required by NTSC broadcast systems to accommodate colour broadcasts and somehow we have not been able to let it go. It's generally called drop-frame and is simply a different way of counting frames. There is no difference between 30 and 29.97.

[@anastasiosnyfadopoulos8781]

Hello, interesting and clear review. I do have one question if you had the time to answer it. I found this camera used for 1500 Euros. Do you think it would be a good purchase?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words. I honestly have no idea of what value this camera, at that price might have for you. This is a decision you will have to make.

[@anastasiosnyfadopoulos8781]

Thank you Maarten

[@MaartenHeilbron]

always happy to assist

[@garammashala5557]

Mr. Maarten please hlp me . i m from india. a former filmmaker ,can i make low budget feature film , plan on shooting all my footage in 4k mode whats the price range

[@MaartenHeilbron]

sujit rudra With apologies, I have no idea what it might cost to produce a low budget feature in India. I suppose it mostly depends on whether or not you have talented friends who will work for nothing or at low cost.

[@sultanalmozan]

What better FDR-AX1 Or nex-ea50

[@MaartenHeilbron]

***** I have not had the opportunity to try the NEX EA50, so can't say.

[@bogartsandoval]

Thanks great vid! How can you take off the STBY green letters on the recorded video?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words, appreciated. Are you recording on an external recorder? I can't think of how you'd get STBY in a video recording, so have no suggestions how to remove it.

[@AnsarSohbet]

Kann man an den camcorder sony FDR-AX1 eine Fernbedienung anschliessen? Wenn ja, wie nennt sich diese? Habe in Sony shop keine gefunden.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Der Camcorder FDR-AX1 wird mit einer Fernbedienung geliefert.

[@AnsarSohbet]

@@MaartenHeilbron Leider eben keine dabei und auch lässt sich für eine Bestellung nichts finden. Es gibt ein remonte anschluss, aber scheinbar keine Fernbedienung dazu.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

@@AnsarSohbet Es tut mir leid das zu hören. Wenn es nicht enthalten war, als es neu war, würde ich vorschlagen, dass Sie sich an Sony wenden und sie um Ersatz bitten.

[@michael86734]

do you live in toronto? I recognize the distillery and the skyline

[@MaartenHeilbron]

michael86734 I do indeed count myself lucky to be an inhabitant of the lovely city of Toronto.

[@erikkunz1988]

Very good review! It really helped me decide if I wanted to go for this camera or the cheaper version. I am going to be doing wildlife documentaries so I needed something with the right focal length, video quality and portability. Thank you!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Fujibayashi Always happy to help. Thanks for the kind words.

[@erikkunz1988]

Do you know if Sony Vegas (the free version) can handle 4k video? Or does it downsize it for the editing process.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Fujibayashi I have not tried this.

[@mariocarvalho7053]

Nice review! Excelent job!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Mario Carvalho Very kind of you to say, thanks for your comment.

[@nayanmipun6784]

jul 1, 2015, Dear Maarten, if Sony FDR AX1 is the 1 st consumer 4k camera then what about the Sony FDR-X1000V? Nayan Mipun,

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Nayan Mipun Dear Nayan: This video was produced in March, 2014. Sincerely, Maarten

[@nayanmipun6784]

jul 1, 2015,So, Is the 4 k in FDR-AX1E/B and FDR-X1000V exactly the same? Can I create the same movies from both the cameras? Nayan Mipun,

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Nayan Mipun The quality of the AX1 far exceeds that of the X1000 in nearly every aspect, judged by any standard these cameras are not the same.

[@TheImanis]

How easy it was to hand held the VC?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

It is lighter than most pro cameras, but about the same as most cameras in this price class. I'd recommend a shoulder mount - or some weight training.

[@TheImanis]

Too heavy for my use then...

[@jesselau9021]

good toturial....you can try the flying camera of DJI as well.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Jesse Lau I'll add that to the to-do list - I have been thinking about it - let's see if I can put it on the calendar next summer.

[@jesselau9021]

+Maarten Heilbron Yeah, great, we are looking for watch your professional tutorial of camera drones. Actually, we are working on the new DJI 4K sports-camera which is competitive with Gopro 4 on the market. And it perhaps will be publlish on the next spring. Our websit : www.dji.com

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Jesse Lau Thanks - I'll keep a watch out for it.

[@nayanmipun6784]

aug 22, 2015, What K is needed for displaying in cinema halls?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Nayan Mipun Depends on the size of the screen, the distance the audience is from the screen and the quality expectations. The larger and the closer, the better 4K will look. Remember that you need not only a 4K camera and 4K footage, but a 4K projector.

[@nayanmipun6784]

aug 24, 2015, As per you is the traditional film projections in movie halls are of which k? Of course they are not digital, but we can still compare it's resolution with whether it is 4 K, 2 K, or whatever,

[@nayanmipun6784]

aug 24, 2015, Looking at this interview vimeo.com/63752741 , some where in the middle, he says that he 1 st capture in 4 k (or 8k) then sized to 2 k for displaying in movie halls, seems that 2 k in enough for big screen movies,

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Nayan Mipun Traditional projection is analog, assigning a resolution to a 35mm frame is a subject for much discussion - try googling it.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Nayan Mipun He is working in a very different world of cameras the AX1. I've seen very good projections from HD (2K) recordings, but there are many factors to consider, as I pointed out previously. There's no simple one-answer solution to your question, nor is there any doubt that a 4K recording projected from a 4K projector will be better than 2K, even if upscaled and projected on the same projector.

[@rishimaniaulakh]

all I can say WoW about your review. Its so professional the way you speak I wana keep listing ur review :) Well Maarten I am planing to buy one Video Cam but I done really know which one to choose from Cuz other 1080p I can find under 1000 bucks But this one is around 2200 in Canada. Well I am planing to buy in Dec so any idea how much low the price can go ?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words, I appreciate your comments. I'm not sure what your needs are, and I haven't reviewed them, but I think you could consider either the Sony HDR -CX900 (the non-4K version of the FDR-AX100) with a 1" sensor; or the Canon HF G20. On the other hand, you can do some very good shooting with a still camera but will have to live with the limitations - likely dual recording for audio, 30 minute limit and a bunch of accessories.

[@davidegiandomenico1309]

hello this camera has the sdi output?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

it does not

[@kushanmadushanka7047]

Thanks a lot grate introducing

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate your kind words, thanks.

[@miezjaa]

What is the price????

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Lol TV The price is revealed at 1:37 in the video. Of course, that was the price in Toronto at the time of production. I don't know where you live, and what the price might be in your currency today. Try Google.

[@FlowerOfEU]

does it record dv-format ?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Nanosho .share It does not.

[@FlowerOfEU]

Thank you for the Help :) !

[@李忻-n5o]

FX1 or UX90，Which one is better?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I have not used the UX90, so can't assist.

[@AlinaLifestyleVlogs]

I called Sony, and spent 25 minutes with them, and they don't know either, if this camera records on SD Card. Because SD slot means this camera must have hidden option. Well here it is. Go to settings then System from Menu and change the codec that will auto change to slot "C" AVCHD. Hop that helps. But funny, I spend whole day talking to Sony stores and LIVE Rep and even Tech support and they don't know either. Soon I will be loading many video samples.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

***** Thank you for adding this information.

[@MrRobindhillon]

Sony Updated FDR-AX 1 & PXW Z-100 Firmware & U Record AVCHD Video On SD Cards

[@martinbishop9042]

is the lens parfocal?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Matt Black It is, the focus remains constant through the zoom range, and does not change as the focal length is changed.

[@FlyingEyes27]

***** Hello Sorry for my english. I´m from germany. Can you me say waht you think wich camera better is? The FDR-AX1 or the FDR-AX100? The price is matter. wich camera has the better quality and feathers? :)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

***** Danke für den Kommentar . Die Antwort hängt Ihre Bedürfnisse, was Sie gewohnt sind und was Ihre Erwartungen sind . Dies sind beides gute Kameras , wenn die Kosten ein Problem , kaufen die weniger kostspielige. (Thanks for the note. The answer depends on what your needs are, what you are used to and what your expectations are. They are both good cameras, if cost is an issue, buy the less expensive one.)

[@FlyingEyes27]

***** Sie sprechen gut deutsch :) Ich möchte den professionellen Umgang mit Kameras lernen und hab mir vorgenommen auf die AX1 zu sparen. :) (You speak good German. I will learn the professional handling with camera. And I wait till I have the money for the AX1) Gute Nacht Good night. :)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

***** Google Deutsch ist viel besser als meine. :-) Wenn sich Ihre Bedürfnisse oder Wünsche sind professionelle, dann die AX1 ist die bessere Wahl . Google's German is much better than mine. :-) If your needs or aspirations are professional, then the AX1 is the better choice.

[@FlyingEyes27]

***** hello again :) I have a new question. Have the camera a rind in front of the objective for UV filter or Polfilter? :) Hallo ich bin wieder zurück. :) Ich habe eine frage. Hat die Kamera einen Ring vor dem objektiv wo man einen polfilter oder UV Filter rauf schrauben kann? :)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

***** Yes, it has a 72mm filter ring.

[@yogeshraut2973]

Nice camcorder but i want to see display the date time while recording

[@MaartenHeilbron]

You'll have to look elsewhere for that feature.

[@walmartpimp2]

Would anyone recommend this over the Blackmagic?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

walmartpimp2 I don't know. Do other viewers have an opinion?

[@bluecomposite]

@walmartpimp2 No. AX1 footage looks so video-ish.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

By default, yes - but there are adjustments to soften the look and make it more cinematic.

[@bluecomposite]

'Limited' DR, highlight rolloff, deep DoF... Aloha.

[@redboatmedia1428]

Maarten, you rule.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Red Boat Media That's very kind, thank you.

[@sigmatic787]

***** Yes you make good you tube videos, keep up the good work!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

sigmatic787 Thank you!

[@rishimaniaulakh]

Maarten Can you review Sony SLT 65v DSLR camera ? plz Because I have one but don't really know how to use n sometime my iPhone takes pics better then camera,lol its true .

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the request - I already have projects that take me into September, but I will put that on my "let's consider these" list. My approach to learning a new camera is just to take one feature or setting at a time and play with it - understanding both how it works and when it would be best to use it. The best way to learn any camera is to play with it. The camera - whatever the form factor or model - is just a tool, in the end it's your eye and your vision that makes the picture. Not sure who said, "the best camera is the one you have with you".

[@ps3Tank11]

how long does the battery last ?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+ps3Tank11 in 4K with the LCD about 165 mins continuous, 75 typical according to Sony. Your mileage will vary.

[@heroproducciones4477]

good night a year ago I have this camera and I could not with grain produced me in dark places someone can help me with this camra settings so that I will not pass this? thanks

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+Romer Herrera There are two ways to address grain in dark places. The first is lighting, the second is to use the widest aperture and a slightly slower shutter (1/30). And accept that the shot may be just fine, even if there's nothing in the right third of the histogram - after all, it's a dark scene. Of course, you have the ND filter off.

[@mzwakhentombela6106]

very helpful info & I love it.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

I appreciate your kind words.

[@Ikraaminos]

I have the same camera, but I can not shoot on the SD memory card.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Ikraam Cali-kaar Correct, you cannot record video on the SD memory card.

[@AlinaLifestyleVlogs]

Ikraam Cali-kaar actually you can, I had same issue when I bought this camera. Funny, I called Sony, and spent 25 minutes with them, and they don't know either. Because SD slot means this camera must have hidden option. Well here it is. Go to settings then System from Menu and change the codec that will auto change to slot "C" AVCHD. Hop that helps. But funny, I spend whole day talking to Sony stores and LIVE Rep and even Tech support and they don't know either.

[@MrRobindhillon]

Ikraam Cali-kaar Sony Updated Firmware 4.00 & Camera Record On Sd Card

[@christophergarcia6912]

how do i get of noise in my video

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Typically by shooting at a lower ISO.

[@nepaliselomusic6536]

how maney price pls?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Please check with your dealer. Here's the link to B&H in New York: bhpho.to/2xakv6r

[@nwsrcphotog]

Great review! I currently have an HXR-NX3 and love it! it's a fantastic HD camera and it amazes me each time I use it.. .. I also picked up an FDR-AX100 as a B-cam for the NX3 in HD, and explore 4K.. and while the image is pleasing.. it does not have any manual controls or connections for audio (other than the mini-jack) The audio controls are buried in the menus like a DSLR.. it also does not have the ability to customize the picture profile, so you're pretty much stuck with the default factory settings.. I'm seriously considering selling my AX100, and getting the FDR-AX1 or PXW-Z100.. but to be honest.. The AX1 is more appealing to me.. Besides the lower price compared to the Z100.. the Z100 records XAVC at ultra high bit-rates and severely limits record times to the cards and would create storage issues.. You're videos are some of the better AX1 examples out on the web! I really appreciate your taking the time to inform us! Have you had the opportunity to compare the AX1 and Z100? does the XAVC of the Z100 look that much better than the XAVCs of the AX1?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks for the kind words and the detailed notes. I have not used the Z100 but you're certainly increasing my interest. Good luck with the decision - please let me know how it goes.

[@nwsrcphotog]

***** quick question.. I just purchased an AX1 and I'm getting ready to order a couple of Sony 64gb N XQD cards.. I just want to make sure the N series cards are good enough for 4K/60p? Not that I'll be shooting in that mode a lot.. but if I want to, I want to make sure the cards are capable to record that frame-rate. Thanks again for this great review!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Bill Rich They are, that's what was loaned to me with me the camera.

[@pumaabuahmed5928]

Thank you

[@MaartenHeilbron]

puma abu ahmed My pleasure, thanks for watching.

[@studionextpicnarayana2097]

Can shoot in slow motion

[@MaartenHeilbron]

nope

[@ztiling5646]

Thanks for that, i have one of that,

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Thanks, I appreciate the kind words.

[@ilia77-12]

thanks!!!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

My pleasure. Glad it met with your approval.

[@xmarksthefilms6161]

I Love It

[@MaartenHeilbron]

+FixerUpperVideo's That's nice to hear, thanks!

[@FatalBlow113]

9:33 *I think I'll pass on the STD's*

[@MaartenHeilbron]

BossBunny.Com Once bitten, twice shy?

[@alanhowitzer]

A permit camera!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Alan Fox It is sometimes starting to feel as if photography is an illegal act.

[@alanhowitzer]

***** Has it always been like this?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Alan Fox Well, no. Although it's always polite to ask before you take photos of an individual, these days taking a camera out in some public spaces, cellphones and selfies excepted, does not seem to be viewed with the same attitudes as it was 10 years ago.

[@EtherRajshahi]

তোমার এ ভিডিও টা আমার খুব ভালো লেগেছে (very Nice)

[@MaartenHeilbron]

আপনার সদয় কথার জন্য আপনাকে ধন্যবাদ, তারা প্রশংসা করা হয়।

[@TERRAMOUNT]

very nice!

[@nadirsknadir9278]

I love sony brand

[@MaartenHeilbron]

What's not to love? They are the masters of technology, I just wish they were a little more consumer friendly.

[@ilia77-12]

4K wow! +1

[@MaartenHeilbron]

hehe

[@williamburgoon1834]

i need a camera that doesn't cost thousands of dollars/

[@MaartenHeilbron]

William Burgoon Right on! Let me know what you find.

[@3anternet]

***** I want a camera to shoot high quality images and videos for holidays. Can you recommend for me a camera that can do both 4k video and high quality images.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

3anternet Have you looked at the Panasonic LX100? kzbin.info/www/bejne/lX3LpKWZbtR6a7c

[@timdawg747]

Wow, at 6:40 in the video he said "the camera lets you know when white skin is being over exposed".. Really!

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Context is everything. I was talking about the zebra feature and mentioned the setting generally accepted as appropriate for white skin tones. Other settings would be appropriate for other skin tones.

[@surajprajapatikamrol2557]

NYC 4K

[@eugene6784]

Maarten, I’m curious; do you know if when the lens hood on this camera is removed; will I still be able to attach, say Letus AnamorphX Adapter. I’ve included a link for viewing from their website. www.letus35.com/letus-anamorphx-adapter/ . I’m Interested in medium lens flares and the control of Bokeh through shallow and deep DOF. I must say this was very informative SIR.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Eugene Washington Sorry, I have neither the camera nor the adapter to test that. Maybe the manufacturer knows.

[@ASgfjyhgyi]

All Sony cameras do an overexposed footage. Why?

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Your assertion is incorrect. All Sony cameras do not overexpose. Inexperienced operators overexpose, regardless of which camera they may be using.

[@hcc3513]

Great Video. I think I will just stay with my cellphone camera. I just open the camera app and push the white record button and all the magic happens by itself without all the crazy control. You need a degree to use professional camera. I'll pass.

[@MaartenHeilbron]

Why did you feel the need to watch this video or post this comment?