Sony NEX-VG10 Footage & Hands-On

[@NahM8]

Anyone else occasionally look up their dream pieces of tech back when you were a kid/teen? Interesting to see what caught on or became obsolete. Never thought smartphone camera tech could improve soooo much in a small form factor.

[@renguney]

same pal... same

[@danieldougan269]

Chris looks like such a baby here!

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@joestak The 16mm showed no vignetting when we used it. We did not have an opportunity to use any wider lenses, however, they will all be larger than the 16mm, so they should not give you any issues. Once we get a unit in stock, I'll try it with some wider lenses, and see if these will pose any problems. Unfortunately for cinematographers, large cinema lenses, like the Zeiss CP series, will be much too large to mount under the handle. -Jordan

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@SimplySmashingPro Absolutely! iMovie and Final Cut both support AVCHD files. I edited this video with Final Cut Pro. -Jordan @ The Camera Store

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@GanEdenAustralia You bet, the nice fuzzy windscreen we showed is included.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

They both use the same codec and compression, but they produce dramatically different looks. The AX2000 uses a smaller sensor for much larger depth of field and less noticeable focus pulls. However, the VG10 produces more cinematic footage due to its shallow depth of field. Also, if the same aperture lens is used, the VG10 is noticeably better in low light.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@kitches1991 The VG10 works great with Macs. iMovie and Final Cut both support the files. I edited this video with Final Cut. I'm a Mac junky, so if we look at a camera, it's guaranteed to be Mac compatible. Jordan @ The Camera Store

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@Totes1829 Absolutely. The automatic setting are very reliable, but if you want to go the extra mile, it gives you more creative control than any other camera in its price range.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@gmgbayreuth Due to the very short time we had to shoot the video, we used the factory defaults from the AX2000. I found colour quite good, if a little oversaturated. The VG10 was also used at factory colour settings.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@TheShootTruth10 The camera shoots a 30P signal, output as 60i. There is no 24P mode, unfortunately. Jordan @ The Camera Store

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@bmx21100 The Sony VCLECF1 is your best bet right now for a fisheye. You just mount it onto the 16mm lens, no adaptor required. It bayonet mounts and focuses very well.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@Obataladance The VG10 shoots to Sd cards. The most common type of card used is a 32GB card which will get you 3 hours of shooting time at the highest quality, certainly better than 10 minutes. No prosumer cameras in this class use a hard disc as the media is less reliable and a larger drain on battery life. The demands of post production on this camera are no greater than those of every camera in its class. I know, I edited this one. Jordan @ The Camera Store

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@Mrpinknblackballs No 24P support, unfortunately. The dead cat windscreen is included with the camera.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@Dorkmatix There is quite a bit of rolling shutter, as this camera uses the exact same sensor as the NEX still cameras. If you are looking for a camera that gives you all the advantages of DSLR video, but with less rolling shutter, check out my new favourite camcorder, the Panasonic AF100. Jordan @ The Camera Store

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@waranimater The PAL version of the camera captures footage at 25P and outputs it to a display as 50i. On your computer, the footage is exported as 25P. It confused us at first as well. Jordan @ The Camera Store

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@EscobarFilms Canon proved that 24P can be added to a camera via firmware, and Sony just did a huge update to its NEX-3 & 5 cameras today. It's certainly possible for 24P to be added in firmware down the road...

[@jfreedan]

I would like to point out that the manual for the Sony NEX-VG10 specifically states that you should NOT hold the camera by the viewfinder / mic. It is not designed to be a handle.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@driftingswiftly The continuous drive mode is fixed at 7FPS. Unfortunately, there is currently no reduced drive in continuous mode.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@AGC828 The Sony is actually the only interchangeable lens camcorder for under $5K. And the quality is excellent. I don't think you'll be disappointed. Tape based cameras are still compressed when they go into your computer, but the quality is excellent. However, now that I've been working with camcorders shooting to SD, I can't ever see myself going back to tape.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@Sugartalker Wide angle lenses will give you larger DOF than telephotos. The DOF on the 16mm lens is quite wide at most apertures.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@udontseethetruth The VG10 only outputs a 60i signal from 30P capture. If you are looking for a camera that supports overcranking, check out the Panasonic AF100, or the Canon DSLRs.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@robaloba1 The Sony EA1 adaptor is sold separately for $250 Canadian. So far no Sony camcorder pricing has been adjusted.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@dripmode Absolutely. It is preferable to have native 24P if that is the final framerate you want for your project. Some 24P converters work quite well, but the motion will never have that true 'film' look you can get with a native 24P imager. Hopefully, we'll see native 24P in the next version.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Depends on the lens you mount. All the Sony E mount lenses aside from the 16-50 have focus rings. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@skatingballa Zoom is controlled on the lens, not the camera body.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@journeytoamillion Canon currently does not have a large sensor camcorder, you would have to grab a video enabled DSLR to get similar results. Panasonic has the GH2 camera with similar capabilities, and the AG-AF100 camcorder as well. The Lumix GH2 is still camera styled camera, while the AF100 is more pro camcorder styled, but a lot more money. Jordan @ The Camera Store

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@jrperida The Sony adaptor only allows use of the Sony Alpha or Minolta AF lenses. However, Novoflex produce adaptors for Nikon, Pentax, Leica R&M, and Canon FD lenses. These will not have autofocus, but still work great. Jordan @ The Camera Store

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@sluggard01 You don't need the Sony software to edit the footage on a Mac, iMovie 09/11 or Final Cut will handle the files no problem. For iMovie, just open the software and pop the card in, it should recognize the files instantly. For Final Cut, use the 'Log and Transfer' window and the footage will be downloaded. This video was edited on Final Cut Pro. Using either program, quality will still be fantastic, and editing after the files are imported should be fast and smooth. -Jordan

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Just grab the NEX 16mm F2.8 and add the ECF-1 fisheye converter. Great optics, and then you'll have a nice corrected wide angle as well. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@FutureTVLAND Yes, After Effects supports the AVCHD codec.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@ktm016 The Z5U gets you better external controls for manual exposure, audio, and white balance. You also gain professional XLR inputs. However, the VG10 has a much larger sensor for better low light and depth of field control, interchangeable lenses and a more compact form factor. One is not necessarily better, they just serve different purposes.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@Aldehyde74 You can adjust ISO, Shutter Speed, and Gain when controlling exposure.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@kartug01 Unfortunately, there is some rolling-shutter. It's inherent to all large sensor CMOS based camcorders.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@Sugartalker With an equivalent lens the Sony is indeed better in low light. I think deciding between the two cameras comes down to the look you prefer. The VG10 gives you a very cinematic, shallow depth of field, while the Panasonic shoots a more conventional "video" look with everything generally in focus.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@SignalNeverFades I don't know about Windows, we edit on Macs, but I use a dual core 2.66 GHZ Macbook Pro with 4 GB of Ram and it was no problem. Files are transferred by USB or a card reader.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@evantise An APS sensor produces a look similar to 35mm film. The framerate is different from motion picture film but the look is very cinematic due to the sensor size. For under $2500, the VG10 is a very good option...

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@LTF85199 Like all CMOS sensors, the VG10 does suffer from some rolling shutter.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@NerfPet Unfortunately, no night vision on the VG10. put a bright prime on though and you can get a full colour picture in next to no light.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@87kroker Absolutely. It gives you a great cinematic look for music videos, and the stills are DSLR quality for your stop motion. Jordan @ The Camera Store

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@ryanyu59 The VG20 has better low light than the VG10 or 60D. It also adds manual audio control. It's a very nice upgrade, and we have a video on it. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@AGC828 Exactly. AVCHD has a maximum rate of 24 MBPS. I like working with the JVC pro cams (35 mbps) or Canon XF cameras (50 mbps).

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@keram1233 Unfortunately, AVCHD cannot stream into an external drive.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@metalheadproduction Yes, it has a standard 1/4" mount.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@mariuspurcaru It uses SD cards, or Sony MS Pro Duo cards.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@MrJfergs Currently the 16mm with Sony's fisheye adaptor is your best bet. I am sure we'll be seeing a native fisheye lens option soon.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@woznie835 Absolutely. Just make sure you either A) prefocus your shots or B) have the appropriate depth of field. This camera can give you a very different look from the endless fisheye shots with huge depth of field. Do something different and awesome! Jordan @ The Camera Store

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@RyanSomelofske I can't see a direct VG10 replacement happening in the next year, maybe 2012.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@RevelationsPro No, no 24P mode. We'll have to see what Sony has up its sleeve for NAB next month.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@absoluutrecords If it's primary use is video, the NEX-5 unfortunately doesn't support full manual control and a standard microphone input. The VG10 handles much better as a video camera with its top handle, and big beautiful viewfinder. The 18-200 is also a pretty excellent lens. I'd go VG10 if video is your primary use.

[@dripmode]

Please explain more about the Recording Rate on this consumer camcorder. I've been doing my research based on the Information of the Manufacturer and they have listed that the recording rates are 1920 x 1080/60i (24Mbps FX,17Mbps FH modes)1440 x 1080/60i (9 Mbps HQ mode). I'm sure with editing software like Premiere or Final Cut can down convert it to 24p but its a extra step that you shouldn't have to do. It would be better to select what frame rate before taking it to production.

[@raredreamfootage]

Back in 2011 when I was still a rookie, I learned three things from this video: "XLR", "Cold Shoe" and "Alpha Shoe"

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@moviesunrated Very similar, though the VG10 shoots at a higher data rate for better looking motion (24 mbps vs 17), and offers you full manual control to better dictate how the shot will look.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@AleksandrsLV From my experience the Canon's suffer from equivalent rolling shutter compared to the Sony cameras. The best I have found for Rolling Shutter control is Panasonic.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@hanjohnson1 It uses the same compression, so quality will be very similar. You can resolve sharper images with a good lens with the VG10 though.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@TMBofficialschannel I would say that the quality is higher than the D7000, as the VG10 has a higher data rate. The look of the footage is very similar though as both have an identical sized sensor.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@RyanSomelofske There has been a pro version announced, with no pricing, model number or release date. It will include variable framerates, larger LCD, and XLR inputs. It would also not surprise me if it recieved the A55's sensor. However, it will probably be quite a bit more expensive. I think the VG10 price will stay pretty steady, remember that it includes an $800 lens in the package. I may be wrong but if there were no price drops for Christmas, I can't see any on the way shortly after.

[@IMONEY08]

Would it be a waste of time buying this now? Do you think a new improved version of this camera will come out spring or summer?

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@mahamza86 Once the video is unwrapped in your editing software (we use Final Cut Pro) it is actually a 30P signal. We made the same mistake initially as well. -Jordan

[@lextube]

why do I see this camera shooting and getting the jello effect but never on something like a 550d or 7d?

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@bmxfur The Sony 18-200 has a standard thread for mounting adaptors, like a fisheye. However, for the price of an Opteka you could grab a Sony 16mm with a Sony VCL-ECF1 fisheye adaptor and get MUCH sharper images and faster focusing.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@Saminatorger You need to have the entire card's file structure in one folder, not just the MTS files. Try plugging the original card in and it should autodetect the files.

[@87kroker]

Would you recommend this camcorder as a jump start into the music video industry, and quite possibly shooting stills for stop motion animation?

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@bushkiller12 In terms of image quality, the VG10 compares very well with professional cameras. However, it does not have an XLR port for professional audio, a peaking or magnification function for checking focus, or zebra for checking exposure. The AVCHD codec is also not the preferred codec for editing and colour correction. However, the lens and sensor combination is very comparable to cameras costing many times the VG10s price. Jordan @ The Camera Store

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@34thncrenshaw We had professional lens catcher/thrower Jonathan Stankiewicz off camera to provide desperately needed support. Don't worry, lenses are tools, not heirlooms. Jordan @ The Camera Store

[@ultraret]

@Saminatorger you have to import it directly from the SD card, then select "import from camera" you cant copy to hard drive and then import

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@keram1233 The battery should last about 2 hours. An 8GB card will get you about 48 minutes of recording at the highest quality.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@jayskillsdrumbum Depends on the look you want. I love the shallow depth of field only a big sensor can give you, but the XA10 has better audio inputs and 24P. Jordan @ The Camera Store

[@Sugartalker]

@TheCameraStoreTV Thank you. I would like your opinion. I am planning on buying the Panasonic TM700 but this Sony is really making me think twice because I'm thinking that the low light quality is better on this Sony because of the large sensor. On the other hand, the TM700 has more manual features. What do you think??

[@oribali1]

WOW! This camera is GORGEOUS! I think I'm gonna buy it soon!

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@bmxfur It mounts onto the 24mm as-is. I just tested one yesterday, and its a great little lens! -Jordan @ The Camera Store

[@TaaronGorbahn]

Hurry up and get it in stock! I've ordered and am impatiently waiting for it to come in! :(

[@BardiPar]

@TheCameraStoreTV thanks dude... do you think in the future comes out? i mean the waterproof case..

[@rainlesure4690]

This is a guy from the future you were very wrong about that being the future

[@Totes1829]

would you recommend this to someone who is new to videography and is wanting to get a good starter camera?

[@gmgbayreuth]

Question: which colour setting have you used for the Sony AX2000? Have you done your own colour setting and if yes, can you please post the settings. thx

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@MsAveronica The Sony AX2000 and Sony VG10

[@ussprinceton2004]

would this camcorder take excellent HD video of sports, like basketball, baseball, football, etc. without the motion blur?

[@ninjashidan]

This is a great camera. It's a good competition for the SLR cameras.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@immitchbiatch Just grab the NEX 16mm F2.8 and add the ECF-1 fisheye converter. Great optics, and then you'll have a nice corrected wide angle as well. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@thejazzdogg]

A good review, but at 2:18 I can see some kind of software stabilisation has been applied... you can see rolling shutter artefacts. Seems a bit misleading to use post-production stabilisation when reviewing a camera, don't you think?

[@Sugartalker]

I'm new to lenses. My question is, is there a lens available that gives you the same flat DOF that a cheaper camcorder like the Panasonic TM700 does? Because I need that most of the time.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@stever199 Absolutely, it autofocuses with any Sony E mount lens.

[@rubenreyes89]

Would this be and idle camera for someone who's wanting to make simple short films? I'm barely starting to learn about film from the classes I'm taking and I plan on continuing my film studies. I don't know enough about film to get a more professional camera, but for now I wanna try to get my hands on a camera to get me started on making my first short film. Would this be a good camera or should I stick with a common camcorder until I get more knowledge about film?

[@meaphotographica]

@TheCameraStoreTV Thank you for your reply. I have trouble deciding between this camera and canon XA10. They both have a same price range. One has a bigger sensor and interchangeable lens and other has a dual slot etc. What do you recommend? I would like to hear your opinion.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@OssimJohn As fast as you can turn the zoom ring on the lens.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@thechris44 The 16mm is a great lens. It has a 2.8 aperture, which is quite bright.

[@jrperida]

With the Sony a NEX mount adapter, can you used different lenses from other brand such as nikon, canon & panasonic?

[@keram1233]

@TheCameraStoreTV Last question.Can you plug into the camera a portable hard drive?

[@JonathanEarley]

@charvelgtrs It is 30p video wrapped in a 1080i container file, so it isn't interlaced, if that's your main concern.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@GHETTOMAXBOY Not yet, though apparently Ikelite is working some thing...

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@journeytoamillion Unfortunately, neither are included.

[@hanjohnson1]

@TheCameraStoreTV Is video quality and sharpness on the nex-vg10 as good or better than the AX2000? super review!

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@popnationcrew Yes, it supports AF. Jordan @ The Camera Store

[@bigal303]

would this be a good camera for shooting action sports videos?

[@ccperk67]

@TheCameraStoreTV What about Panasonic's P2HD codec which I believe records in AVC Intra? For example with the HPX170, are you able to get up to 100 mbps?

[@Mitchfaberskateboarding]

hi im a skateboarder. and i will need a fisheye to do my filming. is this easy to find for this camera? or will i need converters that will take some of the scale down. cheers and very good video..thanks

[@bmxfur]

is this camera able to attach a fisheye lens to it particularly a opteka mk1 lens

[@Colariboo]

@TheCameraStoreTV At 2:18, we see a sequence shot with the NEX VG10... but it has this jello effect, is this always happening? Is is because of the stabilization?

[@GadgetVision]

i see the wobbly corners like it's stabilized with deshaker in virtualdub. am I right ?

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

@HenryBenedict1 Cinematic depth of field, and interchangeable lenses would be first on my mind. -Jordan @ The Camera Store