Zacuto are bringing out a great EVF for all cameras that output HDMI so if you have a DSLR to a Sony F3 this is the number one viewfinder on the planet. Zacuto are renowned for their build quality so I have no doubt that this new EVF will find it’s way into a few AF101/F3 camera bags.

Focused on the expanding indie filmmaker market, Sony has announced the release of its new super 35mm digital production camera, the PMW-F3. Sony is calling their new PWM-F3 a camera for “professional shooters, resulting in high-performance digital capabilities at an ‘indie’ price.” Sounds perfect for Zacuto – and it is!

The Sony F3 has high sensitivity and shallow depth of field. It comes with a PL mount adaptor giving users more flexibility in lens selection. These qualities make the camera ideal for use in many digital production applications, ranging from feature film work to indie budget documentaries and corporate videos. Zacuto has the ideal professional accessories to outfit your new Sony F3. Our Universal Baseplate becomes the center of your kit which can be customized to fit any shooting style and need.

Zacuto’s First Look at the Sony PMW – F3 Camera. In this video, Kari Hess, from Abel Cine Tech Chicago, gives Steve Weiss and Jens Bogehegn a “First Look” at the Sony PMW F3. Check out this professional grade super 35MM camera with 1080 60p,4:2:2 or 4:4:4 possible, PL mount lens and more.

For more product information check out: http://www.zacuto.com/sony-f3
Cine Baseplate Kit http://store.zacuto.com/cine-baseplate-kit.html
Indie Baseplate Kit http://store.zacuto.com/indie-baseplate-kit.html
Z-Finder EVF http://www.zacuto.com/zfinderevf

I was so impressed with the video pictures coming out of the Sony HX5V that I decided to produce a Micro Review. Due to it’s very basic sound (2 holes on top of the camera) you will notice some wind noise.

If you are looking for a low cost way to add HD video for example : input from the general public talking about life experiences etc then look no further than the £300 Sony HX5V. Note. This does not produce good low light video footage.

Taking this camcorder out of it’s box gives you the impression of something special, a camcorder for a cameraman, I am so used to using and reviewing smaller camcorders that I have forgotten how the shoulder mount, traditional style camcorder feels. Balanced …yes that’s my first thought as it sits on my shoulder, walking into my bedroom I look in the mirror, that does look the business.

Back come all the early emotions I had as a thirty year old holding my first professional video camera, the pride, the feeling of empowerment…what could I achieve with a camcorder like this and how impressive would this look to the client. 

(Right : Ian an ex-cameraman stopped by to have a look)

There is no doubt full size camcorders have a ‘jenasaqua’ about them and the Panasonic HPX-301 is no exception. AVC Intra, DVC-PROHD, DVC-PRO50, DVC-PRO and DV every megabit rate from 100 to 3.6 you are literally stuck for choice but your client won’t be. Before I get carried away this camcorder has it’s inherent Achilles heal by having a 1/3 inch chip set. You can’t get away from it when you remind yourself that it’s big brothers and sisters all have 2/3 inch chip sets that’s not because they are older models it’s because broadcasters have set professional guidelines that camcorders must have a minimum of 2/3 inch chips and let’s not forget all the 2/3 inch lenses kicking about television stations.

So who is this P2 camcorder aimed at well frankly everyone from corporate to broadcast as long as you stick to the golden rule of filming at 0dB no one will be any the wiser and you will turn out superb pictures time after time. The Fujinon 17x lens has yet to be tested so I will give you my thoughts at a later stage. As from NAB 2009 if you purchase a 301 you will get a free 32Gig card (for a limited time) that gives you a great start as you only have to purchase one other card saving you about £400. 

I am trying to arrange to shadow a professional cameraman doing television work to give you a feel of how this camcorder performs in a real life situation. I don’t expect to get a video review out until next week but it will be worth waiting for.

Sony recently brought out the second generation “Z” camcorder and added a 20x wide angle zoom and an option to record to compact flash card. I have one of these camcorders for a couple of days plus some user testimonials. As usual I will compare this camera against the EX-3.