Video Shooting Techniques - Camcorders vs. Digital Cameras

Which is the best camera for video? Camcorders or Mirrorless Cameras? In this video I make the argument for Camcorders, why I prefer them and how to blur backgrounds with a camcorder. The video is also full of useful video shooting tips and techniques that I've developed over the years as a professional photographer.
Camcorders used:
Sony FDR-AX700
Sony FDR-AX53
Sony PJ -790
Panasonic HC-X2000
Digital Cameras used:
Nikon Z6
GoPro Hero 9

[@ShleepShleep]

27 minutes of my life I can confidently say was worth it. Just wholesome and human.

[@DanChanPiano]

Thanks ShleepShleep! Glad you gave me the 27 minutes. Wholesome and human is a high compliment these days.

[@gallopngoose8753]

I don't always listen to Dan talk about cameras. But when I do, all of my neighbors hear him too...loud and proud and in Stereo. Well done sir.

[@DanChanPiano]

Why thank you Goose. I'll have to add some thumping hip-hop bass so we can really annoy your neighbors.

[@gallopngoose8753]

@@DanChanPiano that would be super good! ☺️

[@joel.llerena]

You have no idea how much I enjoyed your video. Such an inspiration for a young historian like me.

[@DanChanPiano]

Thanks Joel. Wherever they can be found, inspiration and motivation are always positive forces in one's growth. I hope I never tire of the desire to learn something new.

[@paulmatulavich7321]

OUTSTANDING pointers, tips, and advice. More useful information here than in a dozen other videos. Well done Sir.

[@DanChanPiano]

Thanks Paul! I was a bit concerned with the video's length being too long for viewers these days. Thanks for sticking with it.

[@andrekart]

Great advices. Thank you

[@snaht1]

Dan i have learned lot of skills and techniques from this video alone. thanks

[@DanChanPiano]

You're welcome and glad to have passed on something you found useful.

[@davefink2326]

Dan, thanks for this CliffNotes summary of your equipment and working hacks. No one’s better at squeezing pro quality video out of “consumer” gear, and showing us all how to do the same!

[@DanChanPiano]

You're welcome Dave and thanks for the compliment. The final product is what matters, not how it was arrived at. Consumer gear in the right hands can look great or not and pro equipment makes little difference in the hands of those lacking technique. When admiring beautiful artwork no one wonders what type of brush was used to paint it.

[@TDE-76]

I’ve run a videography business for the last 15 years and always learning. You are a master teacher. I loved this! Hope there’s more!

[@DanChanPiano]

Thanks much and I appreciate your nice comment. "Always learning" is something the world's smartest people live by. That's how they got there. Just when I think I know a lot about something, I'm humbled by the true scope of most any given subject, dwarfing my little speck of understanding. Always room for improvement.

[@locovidepro]

I've been a videographer for many years and still, I always love learning from other more experienced experts. Thank you so much for all this educational information. Especially those regarding interviews and storytelling tips.

[@jerry-skids]

This is one of the most refreshing video tutorials about camcorders and how to use them properly, that I've seen in a long time. Once again, I took my trusty Sony HDR PJ790V out of the closet and have the desire to video again. It just sort of takes the joy out of posting videos, when KZbin messes with the codecs and other settings to suit their policies, not to mention, if you use the wrong PC browser, your already posted videos make not look as you intended upon playback, like they did before you posted them. There is nothing wrong with the videos, it's everything else, it seems.

[@youngcoder7403]

Thank you for making this video. 2 minutes already impressed by your professionalism.

[@windsormaidenheadUK]

You are an exceptional Mass Communication and Film teacher, surpassing even the most prestigious film schools and universities. I have gained invaluable insights from you and am grateful for the effort you have invested in this project. I truly appreciate it and wish I could take further classes with you to advance my creative ambitions.

[@DanChanPiano]

Your kind words have made my day! I'm not sure if I quite measure up to your compliments but passing on information and inspiring others is really a form of immortality. Now it is their knowledge and If they continue to pass on, they and a part of you live on in perpetuity.

[@moretoliving2236]

Thank you for this video as well. I have spent many (8 ish) years filming with Canon 70D and when I switched to sony ax43 (couple of years ago)... and my mind was collectively blown. On my trip to Utah and Colorado in 2021 I used auto everything functions because I was juggling 360 cameras, gopros, drones, camcorders etc. I was mainly offroading so my philosophy on the matter was "don't mess with it". I am planning a 6 week trip to Utah in 2023 where I will be hiking so I will be optimizing what I carry and want to make my camcorder the primary (ish) camera to film with so any and all pointers in how to become better at it is a godsend. Thank you for sharing your years of wisdom.

[@DanChanPiano]

All the best in your travels. The bottom line is that no one is going to analyze what camera you used for a given shot and that it isn't as good as such and such. They'll only look and be impressed at the content. You needed a camera there to capture it and the video might not even exist if you had decided that camera X was too much to bring along.

[@1EagleDave]

I have a few things to say here 1 what a detailed video I personally loved your approach to the entirety of this video very well placed together. 2 I have taken away many idea about approaching folks in a different way nobody in video usually add this they just go and shoot shoot etc. thanks very much I will take alot with me on my next shoot weather it be photography/video 10+ video and thanks for sharing your years at it I want a small tripod like the one you have lol. everyone I happen to get only lasts a week lol maybe 2 so many are just junk years back I bought equipment called Really right stuff iam sure you know about these items I also have the manfrotto 400 for my panos and for the most part people are always asking what the heck! is that on your tripod so it starts an opening for me getting some video and at times they are even included in my videos. God Bless you and your awesome years of hands on materials. Dave👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@DanChanPiano]

Thanks Dave. Very thoughtful of you to comment on what you took away from the video. Your reply helps me to know there are people out there such as your self that appreciate what I'm trying to accomplish.

[@SaharTe]

this is amazing. did so much more than camera review. I could not stop watching. thank you

[@TheRocketeer]

This is an amazing photo / video tutorial! Thanks for putting so much time and effort for free into this. Now please excuse me while I watch it again.

[@DanChanPiano]

Thanks Chuck, I'm glad you liked it. I enjoyed watching some of the videos on your channel as well and can see that you put good effort into producing nice content on a subject that you love. It brought me back to the old days of building and launching Estes model rockets with my kids. Keep up the good work. I think our reasons for putting in the work are the same. To promote a hobby and share knowledge. I'm sure the model rocket community and those interested in getting into model rocketry are benefitting from it.

[@chekosfilm]

WOW. SUPER AND EXCELLENT VIDEO. THE INFORMATION WAS AMAZING.

[@DanChanPiano]

All Caps! You must have liked it a lot. Thanks for the compliments.

[@chekosfilm]

@@DanChanPiano SALUDOS DESDE MEXICO. GREETINGS FROM MEXICO

[@DanChanPiano]

Mis mejores deseos para ti y feliz Navidad.@@chekosfilm

[@chekosfilm]

@@DanChanPiano Thank you so much. I wish the best for you. I will see your videos.

[@TheHopelessGeek]

Very informative! The ending was hilarious 😂. Subscribed 👏🏼

[@hypnosiscenternyc]

I love your videos. I have a sony ax53. Best thing is, I live near farms. I can photograph the wildlife instantly that are several hundred feet away without lens changes or other expensive equipment. PLUS ... the video produced integrates effortlessly into final cut pro. Thanks !

[@DanChanPiano]

Thanks and you're welcome. It's great that you have animals readily available to photograph. Unless you're laying in wait for them, a camera that can be readied quickly makes all the difference in getting the shot or not, and that's what it's all about. Not missing the shot. Camcorders with a long zoom range like the AX53 are ideal for this.

[@NeulichimKanal]

I really like this video. In the mid 90ies I have been working as a professional videojournalist for 10 years, before I changed my job. That was almost 20 years ago. I worked with analog videocameras (MII and BetacamSP, later with Canon XL1). I guess I wasn´t the worst operator in our TV-team. In this video I see a lot of stuff I practiced myself. But I didn´t know the trick with the rubberband to get smoother cameramovements. Great advice, man! Your video makes me feel like buying a camera and get out of my home to record.

[@theuktoday4233]

I dug out my AX 53 a few days ago as its hardly ever been used so thanks for making this video its really useful and inspiring.

[@DanChanPiano]

Living in most people’s closets are forgotten treasures that need only be brought back into the light to be appreciated again.

[@jackiechan8840]

Excellent video. Deserves more views

[@MsLibr8r]

Thank you so much. I haven't the clue what brought me to your channel however, it was a necessary intervention. I have had my Sony VX100 for years, thinking after graduating, I'd start doing some freelance work. I thought Id be different and use a camcorder. That hasn't happened, and I graduated in 2019 at 54. I really want to utilize my skills, talent, and equipment. You've just brought me out of a pity party. Thank you for "paying it forward."

[@DanChanPiano]

You're very welcome. I'm happy to have had some motivational influence, and congratulations on graduating at middle age. A testament to your determination. Here's an analogy. My advice to people who tell me that they used to play a given musical instrument, but don't anymore is, "You still do, just get it out of the closet and sit it on the living room chair so that it stares at you every time you walk by. You'll eventually pick it up and noodle around with it and realize that you do remember a few things, which motivates you to pick it up again and again and before you know it, the excitement has returned. The same strategy can be applied to camera equipment or anything you've put down and want to regain. You need only to take the first step.

[@sebinthomasbabu]

This is one among the very few videos which made me inspired to shoot more !!

[@DanChanPiano]

Thank you! Yes, do shoot more. I enjoyed the natural and manmade beauty you've well captured in your videos.

[@sebinthomasbabu]

@KeevaCeltic Thank you and we wait for more similar videos from you..

[@paragontim]

Excellent insights and tips; I have a Canon XA60 paired with an Audio Technica BP 4025 microphone and want to start taking it off the tripod and become more mobile. Thanks for the inspiration!

[@gordon3988]

I was always wondering why wasn’t someone making these points? Well done! We have a few ‘cameras’ but the best video we have ever taken has been on a Sony Ax53. Have thought about adding a second one or perhaps the Ax700. Most of our video work is outdoors (often hiking) the zoom feature on the Ax53 is wonderful and we would like something with a similar feature. May have to consider the Panasonic.

[@DanChanPiano]

Thanks Gordon. This is what I've found. Unless the quality is terrible, your average viewer is focused on the content and not giving any thought whatsoever about cameras or the videographer's skill. When the cinematography is beautiful, again they're thinking "oh, what a beautiful place", not the artistry it took to portray that beautiful scenery. So the bottom line is do your best with whatever equipment you have while being as efficient and kind to yourself as possible. Above all don't miss the shot. The great footage will be a reward in itself.

[@IONHowTo]

Wow cool tricks! Thanks for making this video.

[@DanChanPiano]

Your videos share your knowledge and are intended to help people. We are alike in this way. Passing along information is a noble endeavor and for me, the satisfaction for my efforts comes from a simple thank you.

[@SteveHorne]

Really great video, not sure why it doesn’t have a million views! Just picked up an FDR-AX700.

[@DanChanPiano]

Thanks Steve. Enjoy the high quality images from the AX700.

[@kingvideo-]

You did a great job on this... I like your somewhat slow but exact speaking skills !! Very nice, I learned from this and also ordered me a Sony FDR-AX700 -- God Speed,,

[@DanChanPiano]

Thanks for the compliments! I think you'll like the quality of the AX700.

[@cristzgunslinger]

This is hidden gems, proud i got axp55 in my pocket for next adventure.

[@ventourisphotography5499]

Clear and precise! Thanks for sharing!

[@odarrien]

What a wonderful and informative video!

[@DanChanPiano]

Thanks for the nice comment.

[@ayidrenetwork8822]

Really good video Dan. Very well done in all departments.

[@DanChanPiano]

Thanks for the nice compliment Ayidre.

[@dvdaltizer]

holy crap that rubber band trick just changed my life! thanks!

[@DanChanPiano]

Glad to pass something useful on.

[@theritualist5175]

Great explainer video.

[@Readysetgo2]

Thanks!! Excellent info

[@felixvideoworkshop]

Wonderfull video, thanks for sharing your experience !

[@DanChanPiano]

You're welcome Felix. I'm glad you liked the video and maybe can benefit from it. Thumbs up on your train videos .

[@63rml]

Great video, it really got me thinking about shooting video with a camcorder. Mike

[@DanChanPiano]

Thanks Mike. Glad it got you thinking about camcorders.

[@mikebohan5413]

Rubberband pan! I forgot somebody showed me that trick years ago. Thanks!

[@travelrelax.balychevkirill]

Чудове відео та дуже корисне! Дякую Вам! Давно вже не відчував такого задоволення від перегляду контенту. Лайк та підписка на Ваш канал! Ще раз дякую Вам!

[@DanChanPiano]

I'm glad the video was of benefit and thanks for the compliments. Best wishes to you and the Ukraine.

[@travelrelax.balychevkirill]

@@DanChanPiano Thank you very much!

[@jamessween]

I'm on your side! I always complained why people would rather shoot pictures with a cell phone rather then a real camera. Answer is, it takes just as good as a picture as your real camera. And I would answer back, Ya but try making a 16x20 photo from a cell phone and see how it becomes all pixelated. Then try a full sensor camera, and check it to see how big you can blow it up to. I have to show them on a computer to proof my point. But getting back to camcorders you are 100 per cent right on your video, and more people need to listen to what we are trying to tell them. Great video, I just subscribed. We need to fight back to keep these camcorders alive. Amen? God Bless my friend!✝

[@DanChanPiano]

Yes James….Amen! Thanks. I hope my message has at least a little bit of impact. At least I won’t need to convince you. It would be singing to the choir.

[@sergeantcrow]

Excellent ! Thank you Dan.....

[@DanChanPiano]

You're very welcome.

[@jordanvalladares9448]

Great video!!! just bought an AX700!

[@DanChanPiano]

Appreciate it! The AX700 produces the sharpest images out of my camera collection and performs the best in low light.

[@WAHB50YY]

Very well structred and explained.

[@DanChanPiano]

Thanks for the nice compliment.

[@OutofTownwithRobinBell]

Thanks for the great advice 👍

[@DanChanPiano]

You're welcome. Glad to pass on knowledge and thanks for commenting.

[@gstree]

Having made films on 16 & 8mm since the early 60s I continued buying the newer movie making media up to date. I own all three of the camcorders in this video and would agree that the Sony AX53 is the go to one for use if traveling light. The stability is the best of all the camcorders that can be purchased without the use of an external gimbal, and although the manual controls are limited it is still possible to make a half decent video with a bit of forethought and in post. It is also cheaper and much lighter than the other two. Unfortunately the major manufacturers haven't updated any of their prosumer camcorders for years so I assume that this will be the end of them ?

[@ShamellAntone]

Great vid bro.. yu should make more...

[@MarkAdler-tk9pi]

Thank you for the key video making elements.

[@DanChanPiano]

You're welcome Mark.

[@e.gonnermann4646]

Great video! Very informative! Surprisingly I live in Randburg and I have been to Randsburg!

[@DanChanPiano]

Thanks for the vote of confidence. If you live in Randburg, South Africa, Randsburg is is very far from home.

[@Memory_Gatherers]

Really enjoyed this Dan, I like stills and really like video. I have an old Sony Hvr Z1E but being tape based and rather large its not great for taking along with you all the time. I have used the little dji pocket 2 for a couple of years and recently bought the Lumix GH6 as it concentrates mainly on video. We have dozens of camera clubs local but not any video camera clubs. Seem to be a rarity so content such as your own is great.

[@DanChanPiano]

Glad to have been of benefit. Stills are a moment in time but video really gives the viewer a fuller sense of the place or person. Video with commentary of local areas is helpful for those wanting to visit. Keep it up.

[@mcddetectrespect.7467]

Very informative, thank you so much.

[@massimovalentini1953]

Those who started making videos in the eighties and nineties are used to the video camera and reportage-type shots.

[@jettschenker]

I've got irrorless equipment but I'll never stop loving the camcorder.

[@francopapaluca8479]

You are my new creative master.❤

[@DanChanPiano]

As a kind master, I set you free to shoot great video.

[@francopapaluca8479]

@@DanChanPiano I will take advantage of your effective suggestions, among other things I own a Panasonic HC-X1500 video camera and I would like to learn how to use it best. Thanks again.

[@wedrivetheworld]

Thanks for this ive just bought the fdr ax700 it’s great to see what it can do really looking forward to seeing if I can replicate your stunning images i too really like the idea of a camcorder rather than a mirrorless dslr

[@DanChanPiano]

Thanks for the compliment. The AX700's a great camera. I just wish it could shoot 4K@60p so that I could pan a little faster with it. Other than that it's still one of my favorites.

[@flipwinks5387]

Great explaination, thank you!

[@DanChanPiano]

I appreciate that and you’re welcome. Your description on originality is right on the mark. “To thine own self be true”, Shakespeare.

[@TOYOHYPE]

just subbed. Thanks for sharing your wisdom! learned a lot

[@AlloffroadAu]

i purchased a Sony RNx80 and your tutorial but returned it after a week as I came across the Panasonic HC-x20 and I think it’s a better option for me. Would love to purchase one of your tutorials for it. Anything planed?

[@kaysee7219]

Great video!!!

[@Daragon525]

Thanks Dan!

[@paulmatulavich7321]

I am 68 and have been a camcorder guy since 1985. I have wanted to make the leap to 4k, and was thrilled when the Canon XF605 came out, but not convinced that the image quality is there. What are your thoughts, if any, on the xf605?

[@DanChanPiano]

All the Canon XF605 reviews are very positive and and they all seem to prefer it over it's bigger brother xf705 which records exclusively in the newer but more NLE problematic H265. Being a full fledged pro camera, 605 has it all and records both H264 and H265, but even the smaller 605 cannot be considered compact. I'd give Panasonic CX350 a look too. If I were in the market, I'd consider renting a 605 ($273) for a week and get some hands on. It's a big ticket item and you don't want buyer's remorse. I did that before buying my Panasonic X2000 ($147) and for me it was money well spent. You can even apply that to purchasing the rental if you want. I didn't because I wanted new. You could buy and then return but I find that a bit unethical if you're not seriously disappointed in the product. I know people do that all the time.

[@dct124]

Also I think the form factor will change to cinema camera bodies like the Alexa LF, and Red Komodo. I doubt camcorders will ever go away. I think broadcast news has good reason to keep them.

[@AWalkontheWildSideBlackpool]

Some useful info there my friend.

[@skiphupp6387]

Excellent

[@sailahussein3366]

DAN IS THE MAN!

[@DraaaSmithSr]

GREAT WORD +++

[@FlatWaterFilms]

Lugging around that FF (Canon R5) camera with a battery pack out doing adventure photography at 71 is not for the faint of heart. Where I go, you don't even want to carry an extra lens. I'm a hybrid shooter but those camcorders look real interesting. 🙂

[@DanChanPiano]

I'm with you there. The old adage goes, "a good craftsman never blames his tools". Cameras are tools and as long as a high level of technical image quality is obtained, whether or not it was shot with a cinema camera, a mirrorless or even a camcorder is irrelevant. The viewer doesn't care. The craftsman's story, their composition, their lighting and their cinematography are the art, not the tool used to capture it. Was Rembrandt ever criticized for using less expensive brushes? Could his art have improved had he used a Kolinsky Sable at $3500?

[@cinematicdlp]

Very interesting

[@skakdosmer]

I do own a few camcorders, but I rarely use them. Of course I've never invested in any half as fancy or expensive as yours. I now mostly use Canon APS-C DSLRs. What I like about them is that when they get outdated, you can buy a new one without breaking the bank and without the need to buy new glass. And a DSLR can take awesome video, but a camcorder is in my humble opinion no good for stills. The 30 minute limit is fine as I never record that long anyway.

[@DanChanPiano]

Camcorders for stills? I agree and can count the number of camcorder stills I've taken on one hand. I've been exploring the accelerating quality of the APS-C world lately and liking their smaller, lighter and less expensive attributes when compared to their full frame counterparts. And as you say, if you already have a great lens that you love, you need only attach it to the next generation body. At some point, I'll jump onboard and start building a system. Greetings to you in Denmark.

[@TheStarWarriorHorse]

I fully share your sentiment when it comes to camcorders. I have a DSLR camera, and while it is excellent for photography, it is FAR from being my preference for videography. Camcorders, with their swivel screens and smooth optical zoom features, suit the filming niche much better. Nowadays, my Millennial colleagues and Zoomers rely heavily on smartphones to record videos. To play devil’s advocate, phones are convenient. The overall price is affordable (since you don’t have to buy a second recording device), they are very portable, and many can record up to 4K resolution, but that’s where the advantages end. My phone can record higher resolution video and in more fps than my old Canon VIXIA HF R200, but up until recently, I still relied on the latter device. Why? Smoother zooms, white balance control, the swivel screen, the list goes on. Maybe it’s a generational thing or because I had my camcorder years before I got a smartphone, but I swear that camcorders rule when it comes to videography. I recently upgraded to a new and improved camcorder, and I’m glad I did it sooner rather than later. I fear that the camcorder will soon become a device only available to the professional videographer who has a few thousand dollars to spare. My generation (and the generation after) will soon lose the opportunity to film with a camcorder and appreciate it’s unique abilities. Also, thank you for sharing this video. Your tips were very informative, and I’ll be sure to keep them in mind during my next shoot. 👍🏼

[@ungavaproductions]

Congratulations to you Sir.....your presentation is one of the best I ever seen. Professional, serious, useful, it is a real pro-approach about video. I own, since about 3 months a Panasonic X1500 and I love it. So now I am using my DSLR'S mostly to take photos. I just subscribe to your chanel and I will go through all of your works and also follow you on your future excellent presentations. Thanks so much for sharing

[@DanChanPiano]

Merci Beaucoup for your generous accolades. Many hours of work went into this video and to be acknowledged for my efforts is rewarding and fulfilling. I enjoyed the nice work on your channel as well. I presume the Kavaadi video was shot with the new X1500. Very nice! I love to shoot ethnic events when they come close to home. It's tough, but If you can keep the local attendees, cars, buildings out of the shot, no one would be the wiser that you really hadn't travelled afar.

[@ungavaproductions]

@@DanChanPiano Thanks again for your appreciated comments. I agree with you about cars, buildings etc in my Kavaadi footage but this events was a mess....no rules, no control at all. No security except few from the Tamouls group. So it was very difficults to keep all these elements out of the frame. Also, I am a very beginner in video footage. I come from photography world. But with people like you, I should learn and get better. Thanks

[@pieman3141]

I've always liked camcorders over photo/video cameras, but the versatility of the latter means I can't ignore them.

[@DanChanPiano]

Hopefully they'll still make new ones in the future. The market will determine that.

[@ConceptAdventures]

Great to see someone else things like me re camcorders - however do you know of any gimbals that can be used on say a Sony NX80 for example

[@Clipscharly]

Hello Dan Chan, I have been watching your KZbin video - Video Shooting Techniques - Camcorders vs. Digital Cameras Have you also tested the Canon XA75 video camera, which I wanted to buy but am not sure yet.

[@63rml]

Hi Dan, I really like to review of the Sony FDR-AX700. I was looking at that camcorder and the Canon XA 50. Both are great machines, however, they look menu driven . I have been used to external switches ie: pro bodies , for photography. I remember that you wanted a small camcorder for hiking, but I am really interested in the Canon XF605, not just for the external controls but for the ability to shoot proxies. I would be interested in your opinion of full size pro camcorders. Thanks Mike Mike

[@DanChanPiano]

Thanks Mike. An AX700 strong point is its great hybrid auto focusing, highly adjustable to the type of subject being shot. As far as being menu driven, that's true to a point, for instance assigning a function to it's singe lens ring, but it does have 6 assignable tactile buttons and individual iris, gain and shutter speed buttons. The bottom line is that the smaller a camera is, the less real-estate it has for physical buttons. BTW AX700 can simultaneously shoot low res proxies at time of full res recording. The Canon XF 605 is something to drool over. Just about every feature that you would ever want and then some with many pro features above my pay grade. Like you, I can only look at the reviews and be impressed. Here's one without all the hype that you should watch. kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5ytdIyCg7GGhpo As far a pro full size cameras go this one is small and light, but still a whole lot of camera to carry around. I know I would love all the features, especially the eye and head tracking focus but the size would be a question for me. Before plunking down the $4600 I would rent one to avoid buyer's remorse. A weeks rental is even pretty steep at $273, but worth it to get some hands on and know for sure. I think the XF605 is and will be at the top of the list for a long time to come.

[@lucthebault1959]

Excellent!👍

[@DanChanPiano]

Thank You Luc.

[@teletertiumnondatur2287]

Grazie Dan per questi tuoi video straordinari. Sono colpito anche dalla colorazione. Hai qualche suggerimento da dare per la colorazione dei video e renderli belli come i tuoi? Grazie.

[@DanChanPiano]

Prego . Aggiungo solo un po 'di contrasto e un po' di saturazione. Sono contento che ti piacciano i colori perché non sono un esperto di color grading.

[@alex.alvatar]

Thanks. Great video

[@DanChanPiano]

I'm glad it was of some help.

[@alex.alvatar]

@@DanChanPiano Sure. I see you have a good experience.

[@dct124]

A projector, flat white background, and a mostly stationary subject is all you need for any type of Bokeh. That or use an LCD TV behind your subject. Last but not least, buy a blurred pattern backdrop. These methods are old, and sometimes forgotten. The newest way, which still cost a lot is to use Disney new method of a 180° LCD panel on a sound stage run by 3D ai generating software running on the newest Unreal engine with lighting effects. My suggestion for outdoors would be to find a large enough square frame, attach to a C stand, and have a blurred background pattern on one or both sides. Grab some small sand bags, and you have a small, on the go studio (just be mindful of wind).

[@dawidwsmole]

A really nice video!

[@DanChanPiano]

Dziękuję bardzo!

[@dawidwsmole]

:o

[@ChrisSollart]

Excellent video, Dan! I also own a Nikon Z7 and I just bought a Sony AX-700 (as per your recommendation). However, I'm having great difficulty getting the 2 to look exactly the same so that I can use both of them on an indoor shoot, and I can switch between the two and have the image look consistent. You seem to have achieved that! How do you do that? Thanks!

[@DanChanPiano]

Thank you Chris. I appreciate you thinking the looks of my cameras match, but I'm not so sure they do. My color grading skills are low and I usually just kick up the contrast and saturation a bit and call it good. I'm using Sony Vegas as as my NLE and it has an auto white balance tool where you can click on an element in the frame that's supposed to be white, such as a white collar on a shirt, and it will correct the clip. Or at least closer than it was. I think it's just a fact that Sony will look different from Nikon from Canon from Panasonic. Its just the way things are. I complement the videos on your channel and your experience. It shows, and you have a great eye. Good visual storytelling in your sequences.

[@mrbankole]

Thanks for this amazing resource, Dan! Looking forward to relying less on my mirrorless/cinema cameras and picking up a camcorder soon. I wanted to ask, what software and/or media management workflows do you use to organise your video archive that allows you efficiently find footage and like you said "drag and drop", when you need it?

[@DanChanPiano]

Thankfully my memory is still good with where and what I shoot, and I'll simply put it in a folder named for the location. Dates don't mean much to me. I'll cull any unusable clips and then use "Lossless Cut" to clean up all but the usable portions of the remaining clips to keep the folder's file size down. If that shoot had a lot of a certain type of footage, I'll copy those clips into another folder based on category. "Birds", for example.

[@angeloplayforone]

A drawback of Camcorders is the lowlight capabilities due to manufacturers still wanting to use smaller then 1-inch sensors. The problem lies there, Canon new consumer top line camcorder went back to smaller then 1-inch again.

[@DanChanPiano]

Here's a link to a video from a channel I respect. kzbin.info/www/bejne/p5app4uYd52Ug7c The subject of your comment is not addressed specifically but it gives good insight regarding the current state and possible future of camcorders.

[@pwolkowicki]

Do you get these vibrant colors straight from the camera? I have AX-33, which is pretty much the same as AX53, and colors seem to be faded.

[@movesanmateo4236]

Did not know that "bokeh" is Japanese for blur--the more you know! Thanks!

[@DanChanPiano]

You're welcome. If you're like me, anytime I learn a new tidbit I get a little dopamine lift of good feeling. Makes me want more.

[@BayAreaMusicLens]

Hi Dan, I have a Sony A7R2 camera and I have been using it to record track meets but I was looking at buying the A7S3 since it was supposed to be better for video. But after looking around and finding videos like yours I am wondering if I might find a camcorder to suit my goal. I love recording runners in action, that is really my only goal as to moving subjects. I am not a pro, I just do it because I love running myself and love to put up some running videos. Can you recommend some camcorders for me? I am willing to spend $500.00 to $5,000.00 but since I am not making money off off this I dont know if I should spend up to $5,000.00. I would like the camcorder to have good zoom as when runners are on the opposite side of the track they are pretty far way. I have looked on youtube but havent found people discussing types of camera for track running, but there are some for other sports. If you can point me in the right direction I would appreciate it. If my comment is not clear enough let me know.

[@BayAreaMusicLens]

I forgot to mention, I also record bands in low light clubs so that is why I ended up with A7R2, so it would be helpful if the camcorder was capable of low light recording but my A7 works fine so I might not use the camcorder in clubs, unless it is not to bulky as clubs and other patrons dont appreciate a larger camera.

[@DanChanPiano]

I think the camcorder criteria for your type of shooting in 4k would be 60fps (less fast moving camera or subject motion blur than 30 fps / 1"sensor (much better than smaller sensors for the bands in low light clubs but still can't compete with your full frame sensor) / at least 15x zoom. Have a look at Canon XF605 which pushes your $5k budget but has everything in an ENG camera you would want. If you shoot it in 1080p the lens zooms to 30x and 120fps slo-mo with audio for the track runners. Also look at Panasonic HC-X2 for quite a bit less money. You didn't mention size and weight requirements as these are bigger cameras, not huge or very heavy but I wouldn't necessarily hike with them. Larger camera advantages = more real estate for external buttons and controls and pro features without digging into the menu. There are other contenders for you to research, just keep in mind what I think is your criteria mentioned earlier. Stabilization is important if you intend to shoot handheld. Bottom line is you get what you pay for and I don't think the perfect camcorder in all respects will ever exist. APS cameras keep getting better and better, and are small with affordable lenses, but they're not the all in one advantage of the camcorder.

[@BayAreaMusicLens]

@@DanChanPiano I appreciate the quick reply. I guess I want to avoid bulky weighty cameras. but I mentioned a budget to 5k just in case their is a great camcorder for that price but I am not really wanting to spend 5K unless it is not bulky and not weighty but is just a must have for my use of running video.

[@DanChanPiano]

@@BayAreaMusicLens Yes, a full featured camcorder isn't of much use if you're reluctant to take it along because of its bulk. I mentioned APS cameras because I got a new lightweight Scorp Mini gimbal and I plan to invest in a lightweight APS system for dedicated use on the gimble. I'm not in a hurry though. I'll give it some time while I count my pennies and by then something even better will come out. Good luck with your plans.

[@BayAreaMusicLens]

@@DanChanPiano well at a track meet I will be walking around, from stands to infield and along fences, in your estimation is that unweildy for you? I guess I might re-assess that it would be cumbersome. I guess i can rent one that is heavier

[@wakkowarner8810]

What do you think of mirrorless video-only cameras like the bmpcc 4k?

[@DanChanPiano]

Pretty much out on my knowledge base and getting to the cinematic camera range so I won’t pretend to know much. I hear it’s wonderful but you’ll have to add many components to build it out . I did watch this video and if you haven’t seen it already I think it’s good information. kzbin.info/www/bejne/kJ-ZXpd-ja9_fc0

[@jameshchetwyndjr9739]

Seen many videos shot cx405. All very good looking. At $225 think will take plunge

[@DanChanPiano]

I bought one for my daughter-in-law as a reasonably priced gift. She loves it. Basic, but good. You can always upgrade later if you out grow it.

[@TheApp9]

Hahaha…. We are as filming fthers know what children always do and we are hating: they come so close to the lense, that they are not sharp anymore. I had a laugh at the video with your son, because mine made always the same. Interesting video. I am a Sony A7III guy but was outfilmed with my incredible 100-400mm from sony at a flight show in the alps by a guy using an A53, costs just the price of one accessory for my A7. My full frame sensor was even with the great AF not able to catch the fast and close moving jets and zooming is bulky and shaky with a photo camera while filming. He just zoomed smoothly while keeping focus (my camera has to adjust focus with zooming in or out). But the Bokeh can reached with an 1 inch sensor is still dissapointing. So being not able to be satisfied with one or the other i sold ma gear for thousands and just bought an iPhone 12. it made way better pictures and movies at the air show as my 5k camera and lense. A little bit of critique: i would leave the motorbike scene out of the intro. It makes the intro look not professional because the greenscreen is obvious.

[@DanChanPiano]

Danke! I've come to the conclusion that, unless the quality is terrible, the average viewer doesn't care a bit about what kind of equipment was used for the video. To them the content is all that matters. So please yourself with your choice of equipment and just get the shot. Danke for the motorbike critique. The intent was to show how I panned to get the shot being viewed and not to fake the scene with me in it. I originally did a picture in picture keeping the little rectangle frame around me and made my intention obvious, but decided to chromakey the background out. I can see how this might be interpreted as trying to fake an all in one shot. besten Wünsche.

[@TheApp9]

@@DanChanPiano Hey, thank you for answering and congratulations for your german! I really appreciate it. That makes sense, if you really did it, stay with it from my point of view. You are right, as film makers we watch in a different way. The audience only cares about the content. And for my second short movie channel, we use my friends A7sIII but like you said, after many years changing lenses, buying gear, i now made myself free and minimalistic and enjoy doing my private work with the phone. But i kept some lenses, because you never know, maybe i‘ll start again and i only got for my camera nearly the price i paid. And i kept the big fat Ronin gimbal, it looks sweet with my smartphone on it (isnt even a max version) and provides smooth footage. And who knows, maybe i will stick with a phone, try out a nice prices Sony A53 or get in a few years another full frame. Enjoy doing your hobby and youtube and stay safe.

[@DanChanPiano]

@@TheApp9 It pleases me that people in other countries are watching my videos and out of appreciation and respect. I try to recognize their language. I think with every hobby, people love the equipment just as much as the hobby itself.

[@Wonkabar007]

Very helpful video, I applaud your enthusiasm 👍 I have a Sony CX625 and a Nikon P1000, but the strange thing is when filming fast moving objects using 1080 50fps, the CX625 camcorder records nice smooth footage, but the P1000 footage has a lot of judder, how come when they both are filming at 50fps ?

[@DanChanPiano]

Thanks, I'm glad you liked the video. You would think that 50fps is 50fps regardless of the camera. The only thing I can think of as a possible cause is violation of the 180 degree rule. Are you aware of this rule? If not, it's the relationship between shutter speed and frame rate. You want shutter speed to be twice the frame rate. In your case of 50fps you want your shutter set to 1/100. This gives natural motion blur. Too high of a shutter speed results in a strobe like effect. "Saving Private Ryan" is known for purposely using the effect to get the flying mud and blood to freeze frame. You, being familiar with aviation, (good stuff by the way) may have also seen video of helicopter rotor blades looking strangely defined and almost stationary because of the effect. You might check your shutter speed on the P1000.

[@Wonkabar007]

@@DanChanPiano Thanks for the detailed information.

[@Crlarl]

@@DanChanPiano The 180° rule is about blocking a scene, not shutter angle. 180° shutter angle is a good all-round principle but should not be considered absolute. Also, shutter speed (or shutter angle) doesn't affect helicopter blades looking stationary or moving. It just affects how blurry the blades look. What really makes rotating objects look stationary, is when the frame rate is close to a multiple (1x, 2x, 3x, etc.) of the rotational frequency times the number of blades (or spokes, etc.).

[@jorgem50]

16:24...I replaced my slider with a gimbal and trust me it's much easier to pull off that shot

[@camerachris]

The bigger disparity comes from the size of the sensors, which is why the DSLR "revolution" took hold. With your own footage examples you can painfully see that they are shot on a camcorder. But like you said, if it's just for personal use, so be it. But if you are selling your stock footage people are expecting a deeper looking image. Even your focus pull on the beach is hardly noticeable, but if it were shot on a DSLR/Mirrorless you could make it as drastic as you wanted with little effort. Your overall footage, even that of you on camera making your points looks like it was shot on Hi-8 circa 1997. The comparison of handheld camcorders to SLR or Mirrorless cameras in 2022 is like comparing a Chevy Cobalt to a Corvette, they both essentially do the same thing but one is FAR superior in every way.

[@DanChanPiano]

Overall the points you make are valid. That's why I'm forming a plan to acquire APS-C equipment to transition from camcorders. The large sensors and fast interchangeable lens' in APS-C format approach near full frame sensor quality without the bulk and weight of full frame equipment. However your exaggerations are over the top. Hi-8 cannot be compared to the quality of the 4K camcorder images in this video. Here's the credibility issue with exaggeration. If something is 100 and you claim it to be 1000, everything said thereafter, even the absolute truth, is unbelievable and without merit.

[@camerachris]

@@DanChanPiano and what you call exaggeration I call perspective. I’ve been doing this probably as long as you have. I grew up shooting on film, then camcorders then went through the changes from SD to HD to 4K. And if you’re argument is just because it’s 4K the quality is better you’re missing a lot of perspective.

[@DanChanPiano]

@@camerachris Truce. Equipment can be debated to no end. In the end, it's the art that matters.

[@camerachris]

@@DanChanPiano Well, if you will allow me to impart some experience/knowledge. If you are going to put the cost into APS-C anyway, you may as well go full frame. The reasons are numerable but the main ones being the obvious sensor size, which TRULY makes a massive difference on the depth of your image. And not just depth of field but the overall depth perception of the image. And my second massive difference being the lenses. While you can find comparable versions of most, if not all, lenses in APS-C format even the build of the lenses are greater for full frame. Now, of course, with that comes a greater price tag as well, but you can typically find four zones of the grade of lenses. Consumer level, pro-sumer, pro, and cinema. And even within those zones you can see many variables in both quality and price tag. Anyway, my overall point, as I mentioned, is that if you're going to spend the money, go all in. Buy it nice or buy it twice, I always say. By the way, even though I say that I have four different 50mm and eight different 85mm lenses, amongst my allotment of various other length lenses. Either from buying for upgrades, new releases or just different aesthetics.

[@DanChanPiano]

@@camerachris I appreciate your advice.

[@jameshchetwyndjr9739]

Think Sony has stopped with cx-405. Now about $225. 60x zoom. Want 1080p 30fps so this is fine

[@jameshchetwyndjr9739]

Like what I see. Love camera with 4K but use 1080 as file size. Also love big battery. But can buy and carry extra

[@koba2802]

Thanks for this video. As I've gotten older, I've figured out that camcorders fit my workflow. I'm currently shooting on the Canon G60 and am looking for a second B camera. Is it easy to match the footage with different brands of camcorders? Or should I stick to the same brand?

[@DanChanPiano]

You're welcome. If I was doing a two camera shoot of the same subject under the same conditions and planed to edit back and forth between the two shots, I would use my two Sonys to better match the same look. However, my scenes usually jump from one subject, scene and time period to another and I don't think anyone notices the different looks between my DJI drone camera, GoPro, Sony or Panasonic. The pros of owning multiples of the same brand are interchangeability of batteries, filters and proprietary accessories such as the microphones that work off of my Sony's Multi-interface hot shoe. Because the Sonys shoot in 4K @30p only and I use the Panasonic in 4k@60P I'm also mixing frame rates in the time line which is not optimal. The NLE must either drop frames or add frames and that doesn't make for the smoothest video. I still do this anyway because I really like 60p for faster camera and subject movement. So, I personally am all over the place with different cameras and frame rates. We're talking non-interchangeable lens camcorders here to maintain this kind of policy. For interchangeable lens cameras, unless you're rich, of course you would want to stay with the same brand and lens system.

[@koba2802]

@@DanChanPiano Thanks for the reply. It's helpful since I haven't had experience mixing Sony footage with Canon footage, but I know there's a difference. My Panasonic camcorder looks very different from my Canon G60. So it looks like I'll stick with Canon, building around my G60. Looking forward to more videos about your experience with camcorders. 🤙

[@Flybrei]

👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@ChengduLittleA]

"Not responsible for lighting strikes. Video camera sold separately" 🤣

[@UnapologeticGeek]

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra PHONE has 1/1.3 inch sensor size and F/1.7 aperture which means it gathers oh about 10 times more light than your Panasonic Camcorder. Full-Size camcorders with 1" sensor may still have a place for news crews that need a run and gun solution built for speed and able to take abuse. Creative professionals have moved on to Full Frame Sensor interchangeable lens cameras and for a good reason.

[@cbcreation3569]

Thanks for encorage me. In 25

[@DanChanPiano]

ଧନ୍ୟବାଦ

[@sergeantcrow]

Imagine how good it is for an amateur on a tight budget to be able to own HVR Z1 (Decks not working...) and DTE Recorder where that only cost £150 inclusive Tax Shipping, and z1 bodies around £80 from eBay... One faulty z1 came with charger + 4 batteries.... I have 3 others working, minus decks, bodies now and another one stripped for parts...

[@DanChanPiano]

Where there's a will there's a way. Your will is strong.

[@KenFlanagan]

It’s hard to ignore that this video looks like it was made in 1982 and the delivery and presentation feels like it comes from 1952. This Uber cool dude is beyond beige and bland and it’s hard not to believe that this isn’t meant to be a satire. Unfortunately everything about the video makes me think that this is a genuine attempt to post a contemporary and relevant video to KZbin. Hard to believe that one of his kids might not have said to him to get with the programme before posting. What is bizarrely true however is that despite his unwaveringly polite and calm delivery the content that this video addresses is the elephant in the room that almost all mirrorless “creators” on KZbin ignore. The fact that this dude got up and made this video is in itself hard to understand but the fact that he did propels this into sheer genius. It’s hard to argue with anything thta is presented and the demeanour reminds us of a calmer gentler time before the self obsessed me generation invaded the online space. Maybe more aligned to a knitting channel than state of the art tech but this is a breath of time warped fresh air that is the definition of someone who is anything but self conscious or self promoting. Thank you.

[@DanChanPiano]

Thank you for watching the video and taking the time to write a review. It's truthfulness made me smile and upon reflection, I see my seriousness could be taken for cleverly disguised satire. But you got it right. It's not. But you know, a little self examination is always a good thing. I tried the " Wuz up KZbinrs?" approach and it was so utterly false and out of my character, I abandoned it immediately. One thing I've learned in life is to make yourself happy first, and despite your detractors, "To thine own self be true". Or to quote Popeye, "" I yam what I yam and that's all what I yam" .

[@KenFlanagan]

@@DanChanPiano thanks and don’t change a thing. That is what is so refreshing and honest and the content is absolutely spot on. You have your own style and being self aware means you can be yourself without being self conscious and that is priceless. Keep on keeping on. Thx