Sony NEX VG30 Hands On Review
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 13 ก.ค. 2024
- Sony NEX VG30 Hands On Review. Includes video samples to illustrate features and functions. Includes feature request for the next version (VG40?) Scenes shot at the Re-enactment of the battle of Fort George, and of birds and squirrels at a bird feeder.
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Its earlier version of VG 20 is the main camera for me at present for my wedding video coverage even in 2021. This is a very good camera if we use good glass like 50mm and 85mm.
Agree, although I rarely use mine these days, mostly because it doesn't do 4K.
Its good to know :) I got VG 30 for free just wondering if is it worth using it as A cam for shooting some artsy documentries in 2023.
I wish most presentations could be done this way. Clear, calm, pedagogic and instructive bringing up main features.
Those are kind words indeed. I will admit that I'm going for quirky, not pedagogic.
I just got this camera. I think this will be amazing!!!! Thanks for such a nice review.
seatgurus That's very kind of you to say, thanks!
Wow! As another happy VG20 owner I can't believe I'm the first comment here. You've done an excellent job pinpointing pretty much all the pros & cons of the Sony VG line. I knew of the "lens creep" associated with the 18-200 silver lens going in but didn't realize just how annoying it would be doing macro/tripod shots of nature. It's not as one can lock the lens in any selection of focus. But more often, almost always, I use Canon FD lenses and Fotodiox adapters to avoid lens creep.
Excellent review, thank you!
+Amigo Kandu I appreciate your kind words, thanks for commenting.
Thanks for the upload! Great information :)
I appreciate the kind words.
Wonderful review. Thank you.
Excellent review thank you Sir!
Great review. Thanks!
+Diana Ionesco Thanks for your kind comment.
This is by far the best review about this camera I found. And there are a lot. Very professional and I appreciate the effort put into it. I am almost convinced to buy one, too. The biggest problem ist the choice of lenses. 18-200 kit is versatile but I would like a bit more wide angle. Maybe in that case 10-20 would be nice since everything else would overlap too much with the kit lens. Same problem in the tele area. Maybe Sigma 50-500 would be nice but 50-200 would be covered twice then. *sigh*
Godfrey: Thanks for your kind words. The kit lens is suitable for most projects, I prefer the smaller black LE version. Sony does have other e-series lenses with a larger iris for indoor word, but are a limited in versatility on other aspects. Of course, if you have some good glass (Leica M?) there are adapters available - on of the beauties of the NEX cameras.
Eirik: I've had no issues importing those files from the "private" folder directly into FCP 7 or X. It detects the video files and imports them. But to answer your question directly, the file format is the same as the VG10 and VG20. Check your workflow - you don't need to convert (are you using clip wrap?) first.
Hi Maarten. Really great video. You went into fine detail about the VG 30. I noticed you were shooting in Toronto. I live in Toronto as well. I also noticed you said you had the VG20 before you used the VG30. By any chance, are you thinking of selling the VG20? Just wondering... Thanks again for the good video.
Thank you for your great great review.it's like expensive training DVD.
Great review! Thanks for sharing the info with us! I'm looking for a new camera for weddings and such events. I currently have the Canon G30. Lately been comparing the 70D , the Panasonic GH4 and this model. The only issue with these cameras are : image stabilization and bad autofocus. Does the sony have image stabilization on the sensor, like the DSL-r cameras? And how about the autofocus when for example shooting a dance scene indoors? Is it where it's supposed to be?
Cristian Matei Thanks for the kind words. I don't have experience with all of those models, but I would encourage you to include the Sony A7-2 in your selection. On the VG30, stabilization is as good as I've seen on an APS-C camera (Sony small sensor video cameras are better). For autofocus, I do find that it's sometimes difficult to have it focus on what I want - so you have to understand its rules - it will always focus on the face that's closest to the camera, if it can find a face. I do try to use manual whenever possible.
Maarten, this is one of the best and most helpful reviews I've seen on youtube--or most anywhere else. I really like the pace--a very comprehensible, measured temp---all delivered in an unhurried, relaxing manner that puts the listener at ease. And, content rich.
I just ordered a VG30 and VG20 to replace two previous cams, NX70s--which have a lot of virtues, but at this point I need the interchangeable lens system more--and I tried and HATE shooting video with something made as a still camera--just too many limitations I know I'll never get used to.
I think these two cams will be idea--and I really like the AVCHD format.
But I digress.
I do have a suggestion in the form of a request: a review of e mount lenses, and the best non-e mount lenses that adapt well for the NEX system.
I have some Canon FD primes with E mount adapter--and I'm really looking forward to seeing the result. I really don't mind manual adjustments---and I agree, there's a certain positive aesthetic to making manual adjustments. It keeps my hear in the game.
So, I note no one has done a review of lenses in this way---even on a limited scale. F'rinstance, if you could have three lenses for the VG30--and only three--what would they be and why?
Now, in my view, that would be a very helpful review. ZY productions did a review on his choice for three best video lenses that was very helpful to me. I bought two of them, and they perform better than I can.
Anyway, terrific review, in both form and content--reminds me of the video whisperer's review of the Sony NX30 or his review of the EA50 UH---You both give the good stuff--and leave the rest out. Thanks for sharing and for the time it took to put this together.
Thank you so much for your kind and detailed comments. I like your request, and I'll add that to my to-do list. In the meantime, check out DXO reviews - for their excellent technical analysis, and wirecutter - who scour the web for recommendations. Wirecutter's e-series lens recommendations are an interesting read.
Currently I'm shooting (on my A6000 and VG20) using the 18-200 (excellent all-purpose video lens but heavy - virtually never use it for stills); the 16-70 (a near-perfect walkabout for stills); the 10-18, the 35mm1.8 prime and a 30mm macro (for those camera control closeups). Now thinking about full frame e-series lenses has given me headaches - I used the 55mm for the A7R review and really enjoyed it.
I have some nice Canon lenses, but haven't yet bought an adapter - I have the feeling it would be clunky and awkward. Let me think about how I might organize that kind of a video review.
Thanks for your response. If I might offer one suggestion regarding organization: limit the subject. I make that as a selfish albeit practical suggestion. (But that's the license I take on my birthday).
In short, target your audience. For instance, I really love shooting video--and have over 100 educational videos in my discipline on youtube. (Now, don't take offense at this--but)...I could care less about shooting stills or any DSLR concerns). I would let that be a second video to target NEX camera users.
What I'd like to see is a video on VG 20/30 lenses, with some examples of each. That strikes me as a lot of work in and of its self--and a worthy stand alone video.
In talking around (you may disagree with this) but the photography world and video world of camcorder shooters is pretty divided...at least among us amateurs. We may love one, but care little to nothing about the other--like my brother-in-law: avid photographer--never gives video a thought.
Just my opinion based upon very limited experience.
thanks for the quick reply, and thanks again for the great video--clear, practical and to the point!
William Ridenour That's good advice. And usefulness and usability for video is not the same as stills, so combining them might be to the detriment of both. So, Happy Birthday and please let me know the top five/six lenses that would be on your list for inclusion.
I really think the lenses would be your domaine. If I were doing the video and had the knowledge I'd limit it by categorizing essential function shooting with best lens (or two) for each category. Heck, it wouldn't even have to be best one, it could be best couple, say two selected, and one being "best value."
Another video on best adapters.
William Ridenour Very good, thanks!
The 18-200 is a nice lens (get the smaller LE version if you can). Also have a look at Sony's 10-18 SEL1018. I've only had the chance to look at it briefly, and it's impressive and matches the LE very nicely in look and operation with no overlap in focal length.
I've been using a Sony NEX-VG30 video camera on loan for the last month. Here are my thoughts ...
The VG30 was a review unit loaned by Sony. I'm continuing to use the VG20.
Maarten, an invigorating review indeed...replete with zest and color. From the look of it, you are a great digital cinematographer: an added edifying boost. Thank you. If you were to do so, which lenses would you identify to supplant the kit SELP-18-200 or are you satisfied with it for indoor and outdoor acquisitions? Thanks for the incisive review.
-Godfrey Silas
cinematographer
I got the vg10 and are editing in fcp on a mac but the mts format does that i need a converter which is somewhat annoying but does the vg30 have a more mac/fcp friendly format or is it still the same?
What camera do you think is overall better (nex-vg30) or (sony hxr-nx70) in-terms of low light, daylight, indoor shooting, and full manual control, thanks.
Murat: I'm not sure that the VG30 is any more grainy than any other camera under the same lighting condition. The issue is the 18-200 lens. Sony is now introducing better lenses with larger apertures for night shooting. Good luck.
nice review. Do you have a hissing sound when filming?
either I use an external mic or that one, there is a hissing when listening to the camera sound!
No hissing here. Can you post a sample? Do you hear it on headphones on the camera or on computer when editing?
It's all detailed in a blog post at my maartech dot com blog:
"I created a kit that allowed me to mount the camera on top of a monopod (Manfrotto 679B) with a monitor (Sony CLM-V55) and a wired remote control (RM-AV2) at the bottom for remote viewing of the scene and remote control of zoom as well as start/stop (see 5:05). I chose the wired remote as it has a clip to hold onto the monopod. It's also somewhat more reliable, as the remote IR sensor is actually on the front of the camera.
Great video. Do you recommend this camera for shooting a soccer game? Sports usually require a lot of zooming.
Thanks for your kind words. With the powered zoom 20-200 lens, this camera would be a good choice.
Great review and well produced video report Maarten. Just subscribed to your channel. I just ordered a VG30, it should arrive tomorrow. Been shooting video on small sensor cameras (1/3" chip broadcast) and want to switch to a more pleasing more cinematic look. I have been a big fan of the Fuji X-Series, and had lots of glass for them but just sold it all. When the new X-T1 Fuji came out just recently the video mode was abysmal and I was holding out for Fuji to improve video with this new model. I will say the still quality on the X-Pro1 was great I had. But I am moving to Sony as they seem more ahead of the curve with great video and still quality. Your video helped me in my research. Looking forward seeing more of your posts.
Thanks for your kind words. I think you've made a good choice. I didn't upgrade to the VG30 from VG20, but they're nearly identical. Over two years in, still very happy with my choice, and for the moment, nothing new on Sony's APS-C camcorder front.
First, and I apologize if it's not clear in the video - the room needs to be very quiet before you'd even hear it. Under normal circumstances, you would not hear it.
The sound comes from the motor on the new powered zoom lens, and it can't be turned off. You could, of course, decide not to use it and adjust the zoom setting manually by turning the barrel. On that lens, it still generates some noise, as you are pushing against the motor. If you need quiet, try the other/older 18-200 lenses.
If you're taking photos to post them online, I think the NEX5n (I own one) is a perfect camera.
Well done video. At this date, I am wondering of the VG30 has anything to offer, compared with using a Sony a6000 or newer for video and stills... maybe form factor is still a big plus.
Compared to the A6000, it has a lot to offer, particularly for video-centric use. In 2021 its real limitation is that it doesn't do 4K.
Can you put all of the equipment you had when filming the re-enactment in your description? In particular that big long stick you had the camera propped up on.
I don't know, there's probably a metabones adapter. Have you tried googling this question?
Nice camera
Is there a way to stop the noise like on the settings?
Hi!!! tell me please how to change recording format on this camcorder?
+Life In Hollywood Hello ... why do you want to change the format? AVCHD works perfectly, if you let it. Navigating down to the level of MTS files will cause you grief - import from the "Private" folder level.
Which editing software are you using? Ask Google "How to import AVCHD files into ... " for your software to find the instructions to let your software import the files without the hassle of dealing with MTS. Hope this helps, please follow up if you need.
***** Thank you so much for your time! It was really helpful)))
+Life In Hollywood Glad to hear you found the information you were looking for.
Good job
my pleasure ...
If you are shooting video, of you want it to look and sound professional and if you want to be able to do what you need to do with a minimum of fuss, buy a video camera. The VG30 (or VG20) is an excellent, semi-pro choice. I shoot my videos (the ones where I appear on camera on my channel) using the VG20.
Does the camera have a zoom noise?
Very very good review on the VG series 3rd Gen camera.
I have a JVC GZ HM400 and it still is running fine, I already know the quirks of it like the incapability of the Low light Sensitivity. The 400 only comes in at a 100 gain setting in video mode when it is dark. Well thats my bothy yet running camera.
I fell in love with the NEX VG series since it came out, and I have put buying one on my wishlist for ever. I have seen the reviews of the VG 10 , 20 Models and they seem to have their own quirks of their own. the 10 as a prototype the 20 as a 'Patch' Version. And finally the 30 with its own trademarks of its own quirks.
Overall Maarteen, Very good review with some considerations that the design team of the NEX VG line needs to look into.
I love that fact that you showed us the model of the camera with its optional lenses and other msc items. How it works in different environments. and so on.
One thing I do like is that the your voice is very neutral and soft in the ears (like pudding) for me to listen to.
Keep up the good work. ;)
PS: I know my comment may seem like a bot made it but, what can you do. :/
Not a bot ... thanks for the kind words.
***** When do you plan to take a look at the NEX-VG900?
OmniscientTelevision Probably not on my list. I'm planning to review the FDR-AX1 next. Although now that there are full frame e-series lenses, maybe I should reconsider.
Great video! Two questions. First, do the E series lenses need an adapter? 2nd, what adapters can I use and with what lenses? Thank you.
Thanks! Two answers. First, no - the e-series lenses are native to this camera (like the nex still cameras, now renamed A5000, a6000). There are as many adapters as lens mounts. Google can help - but metabones provides a large selection for popular lens mounts.
Awesome. Thanks!
Ive been using a vg10 for a few years and i want to upgrade to a new camera. my budget is low so the vg20 is a bit out of range. Would it be worth it to upgrade or should i get a dslr?
I felt the VG10 had some flaws that were remedied by the VG20/30. I would upgrade. As for choosing between the VG30 and a DSLR ... I'd need to know a lot more about you, your budget and what you are doing to make a recommendation. Good Shooting!
I have a quick question. I am a multimedia journalist and I am looking to purchase this VG30 on ebay. I obviously need a hand held microphone or lava mic. But the XLR-K1M microphone kit is very expensive. Is there another xlr adapter I can purchase for a cheaper price?
I would recommend the Beachtek adapter (if you must use XLR), or an RF mic kit (I use the Sennheiser ew series, available in both lavalier and hand-held configurations) which supports both mini and XLR output.
Hi, nice video! Is it possibile to use a Nikon ai-s lens with adaptor in this camera to make a video? Regards
Thanks, I appreciate the kind words. If you have an adapter that can mount the lens on the e-mount on this camera, then you can use it to make a video. You'll probably be using manual focus and exposure, but that's not an insurmountable obstacle.
I'm still really confused on what I have I'm not sure if this is a great camera to try to make cinematic music video's with color grading. also i still dont know what the AB means in the middle.. can somebody help me understand what I have a little bit better?? also I have a sony a6000 is that a better camera in any way?
I would suggest that lens selection, aperture setting, lighting, composition and set dressing will contribute far more to a cinematic look than camera settings. Using colour profiles to shoot and colour grading in post is not a magic solution to cinematic quality. If a camera can shoot video with manual exposure and focus settings and can record at 24frames, you have what you need. There are many, many cameras that can achieve the results you're looking for.
Maarten Heilbron First off thank you for the speedy reply right now I am using a E.50mm f1.8 lens and as for my settings I'm trying to use 1.8fs, 24fps, 1/50 shutter speed and 100 iso for outside I'm using this camera and a sony a6000 with these setting I feel like I can bring more of a cinematic look with the a6000 but I am still so unsure about the sony nex vg30 am I missing something? Or do I just not know how to film everything properly?
always my pleasure. I don't think you'll find much "cinematic" difference between the A6000 and the VG30. Lighting, composition and background set are key to improving your look.
It's 9 years later and I'm about to start shooting with this thing. 😅
While yes, I'd like 4k at 120fps, Full HD at 60 FPS will serve me almost as well. (And at less than a 1/5th of the price) 😃
At first I thought this effect at 1:50 was silly, I'm now thinking it would serve well as an intro, revealing the walker by increasing the Frame Rate. Hmm, 🤔
What a great use of the HDMI output & remote control here! 5:03
It's 9 years later and I'm about to start shooting with this thing. 😅
While yes, I'd like 4k at 120fps, Full HD at 60 FPS will serve me almost as well. (And at less than a 1/5th of the price)
🤓
Digital Zoom Deterioration?
Maybe not. I've seen/heard other reviews that claim there is no loss of detail while using the 2x digital zoom feature.
At 7:00 looking at the dark feathers detail, we seem to see more detail when zoomed in. (Look just below the Mallards? white band)
Not an affect that one would normally get with Digital zoom.
😎
Color Finesse
The fine color adjustment shown at 8:33 can be used to closely match other cameras in a multi-cam setup!
Wow! Collector's item! Thanks for the kind words, it sounds as if you're well on your way to creating some interesting content.
What's the difference between this and the vg900 besides full frame?
Soldier1287 I don't know, I haven't reviewed the VG900.
is recording in MTS but i need to record in MOV
you can easily convert the footage from mts to mov, guess you use a mac?
+Life In Hollywood (I originally wrote this reply 2 months ago, when the comment was posted - but it seems to have disappeared)
Recording in AVCHD, the files you will find if you dig down into the private folder on the card are labelled MTS. These are not the files you want.
Using your editing software (whether it's Windows or Mac, consumer or pro), import from the "Private" folder - you usually don't have to navigate any deeper. Different software has different ways to do this - check the help menu for "importing avchd" to find the details.
Converting MTS to MOV is possible, but always more complicated. The import process in video editing software will, for example, combine the two or more MTS files that were saved in a longer recording.
+A better world You can, but you don't want to. This will nearly always make the process more complicated. From within your video editing software, import from the "private" folder on the SD card. The software will know what to do, and you will never see MTS files.
Maarten helibron,
Is this still a comptitive and good camera to get, Other than the nore expensive 900 full frame version this seems tk have all the festures I am after, sure its only 1080P and in this age of 4K its seems a bit dated but Im not seening 4K as a standerd for at least another 5 years yet and dont think 1080P will be "Low Quality" for a good number of years yet ao think investing in 1080P is still a good path for the begginer.
My only hesitstion is are there better newer alternitives out there to this, considering this cameras is over 2 years old and likely due an iminent update?
How dose this compere to a DSLR of the same price?
Im looking at getting a real camera so I can get into videography and have zero intrest in photography.
Soam looking for recomendations in the £500-1500 price range.
All I know is I think interchangeable lens is a huge plus over a "Consumer" camcorder.
XLR is missing but from what i can see most pros use external audio capture anyway.
I think the form factor and control rings on a handycam format will be far preferabke over a DSLR package.
Really Im a bit of a noob and have no idea what to look for so you will to excuse my rambling post.
I aim to be shooting lots of fast action sports (Cycling,MMA )air shows, fighting/Sparing mostly run and gun style with some tripod work but will be for all kinds of use includeing macro but mainly its for makeing the first two and webshows (MMA/Konfu drama).
I can only aplogize for the long winded post and apricate any replys from anyone.
***** This is a good list of detailed questions. Let me see if I can help. First, I'm still shooting with the NEX VG20, which continues to perform beautifully, I haven't reviewed or seen anything to make me think I should upgrade. Given my choice between the VG20 and VG30, I'd likely pick the VG20 (I didn't care much for the motorized zoom).
I agree it maybe a little early for 4K, but if the right camera came along, I'd likely buy one. I'm not sure about an imminent upgrade - nothing on Sonyalpharumours seems to suggest that. As for full frame, that would be nice, so if a camcorder with the A7S sensor came along, that might be my choice - but unless you're shooting features, no-one will notice.
The A7S or A7M2 are excellent choices, with all the features I'd like to have (my review of the A7Ms is nearly done). If I was forced to buy something today, I might choose one of those - but they will exceed the budget and you'll need a bunch of accessories (like the $900 XLR adapter). Most DSLRs have the disadvantage (Panasonic is an exception) that recordings are limited to 30 minutes or less. No time limit on the VG30.
I agree with the interchangeable lens option - I don't change much (most of my shooting is with the 18-200, some with the 16-70) Although if you want a real soft background the 35F1.8 is excellent - see my recent interviews with the Sony Canada brand ambassadors.
Dual recording audio is always a better option, but for interviews and my own on-camera scenes I use a Sennheiser wireless kit with mini plug into the camera. And you can always add a beachtek adapter.
On a DSLR some of the settings (aperture, shutter, ISO/gain) are easier to adjust than on the VG30, but I don't change them while I'm shooting. Hope this helps.
*****
Thank you for your detailed reply, also sorry about the gramma and spelling errors above I had not noticed it was that bad.
I will certainly cheack out your reviwes when done, finally are you paying a lot just for the form factor here, I read this is really a Nex 6 in a new body?
How would something like a Alpha6000 / A7s compete with this?
I know battery life would be an issue.
I think I will keep an eye on the used market for a good VG2 for now as well as considering other options.
***** It really is a lot like a NEX6, but the form factor and UI are certainly made for video - in fact, it's a terrible still camera. The a600 doesn't (no audio in, but not an issue if you're doing dual system) the A7M2 and A7S are definite alternates - just will cost more to put the pieces into a rig for shooting video.
Thanks again for your reply its given me a lot to look into and think about thanks very much for your help.
Is the mic and viewfinder on top removable?
It is not.
I'm thinking buy this camera but ı think some expensive. and night shot very grain - noise. this camera in turkey 3000$ your think ı must cano600 d ? I'm changeable
I really wish Sony kept this line going. The current A7 series, while great for video, just misses this form factor.
Yes, and the lack of a 30 minute recording limit, and gain instead of ISO.
I'm on the 100 km diet for video production.
It can. I recently posted a video on my vimeo channel, also named maartech (vimeo dot com slash maartech) called "Embedded in Cabbagetown". It was recorded using the VG20 at 24fps using the cinematone setting. It's my understanding that this functionality is identical from the VG20 to VG30.
Maybe I am wrong but shouldn't it be possible to turn off automatic gain of the microphone and/or set it to lower sensitivity thus not even hearing the motor in quiet environments? Besides, it WAS clear in the video ;-)
ni review were those guys in war?
are you from toronto also?
Thanks for the kind word. (I assume "ni" is a kind word.) Yes, they were in a war. They lost this battle, but went on to win the war. The American invaders have returned to their side of the Niagara River. The Maartech studios are in Toronto.
good
+ธนบดี วังธนะรุ่งโรจน์ thanks
Yes repping toronto!
Does it have a clean HDMI Out?
It does.
I'm just curious why not many indie filmmakers have used these for either documentaries or feature films. As far as cameras under $4000, seems Mark ii or iii are still favored. Any thoughts on that?
That's a great question. Viewers, please add your thoughts.
In my view, peer acceptance, lens selection, accessories, familiarity and preference for certain codecs all play a role.
***** Thank you. That makes sense. I think people going along with the crowd has a lot to do with it.
Watch/listen at 6:33.
Slow motion is available in this cam sir
Do explain.
do you live in toronto?
I recognize the street car
+michael86734 You've spotted correctly. I am a resident of Toronto.
I've got a NEX VG30 and for the most part a nice camera. However, it creates a new file every 2Gb and when it starts a new file I lose 1 to 1.5 seconds of sound at the end of the ending file. I'm using a 32gb SanDisk Extreme Pro class 10 SDHCI card rated at 95Mb/sec. Have you or anyone else come across this problem? It is extremely annoying when filming lectures. It doesn't seem to matter whether I'm filming at 25 or 50 frames per second.
Bondidog Which editing software are you using? What is your workflow to import the clips? IN FCPX if you import directly from the camera's file structure the entire recording is imported without interruption, regardless of length.
***** Some of the lectures are up to 90 minutes so I get anything up to 8 or so 2Gb files using the Sony.
To transfer the files to the PC I take the card from the camera and use a multi card reader installed in my PC and copy/paste the files from the card to one (of the several) hard drives in the PC. I use Cyberlink Power Director 11 as the editing software. While not professional it does everything I want/need it to reasonably well.
I also have an older JVC video camera I use on holidays especially if walking a lot as it is much lighter than the Sony. It has a 32Gb HDD installed. While it is neither digital nor high def it does a pretty good job and is nice a light to use when you hand holding it when I don't have a tripod with me. When downloading the files from the JVC camera I connect via a USB cable and copy/paste to the PC hard drive. I do not lose any sound from that camera at all.
Bondidog You need all of the files in the Private folder - not just those that look like video files - and you need to import them as recordings, not files. Let's try this: First, use the same workflow for the VG30 that you use for the JVC - let PD11 import recordings directly from the camera/memory card without gaps. Or second, instead of copying the individual files from the VG30, copy the entire "Private" folder. Then let PD11 import the recordings from the folder. It's possible (I know, it's an issue with all AVCHD files) that the software won't recognize the recordings, or even identify the files. So ...
I'm pretty sure that Sony includes a free copy of Vegas video editing software with the VG30 - yes, it' s a learning curve, but it's not that dis-similar. It will recognize the recordings and import them without gaps.
Final option: dual system recording - use a Rode SmartLav pinned to your lapel (or go pro - hide it in your hair) and record it on your iPhone, match the audio to the video in your editing software. Not sure how you're recording your audio at the moment, but this could additionally provide a bump up in your audio quality.
Let me know how it goes.
***** Thank you, I'll give those suggestions a go. It might be a week or so before you hear back as it will be that long before the next filming. As far as audio goes, I'm pretty lucky as I plug into the back of the mixing desk in the auditorium so quality is about as good as it gets :-). Certainly no 'extra' sounds.
*****
Thanks to your suggestions. After last weekend's filming I connected the camera to the PC via USB cable rather than removing the card and placing it in a reader. When I did that I found that instead of having around 7 files each of a bit over 2Gb I had one file of abut 14.5Gb. I transferred that tot he PC, which took about an hour as it seems the USB connector in the camera may only be USB2.0. Because the file came down as one big file there were no breaks so no sound loss. To say I'm now a happy chappy would be an understatement.
I can live with the 1 hour down load given I get all the sound. And it makes no difference to PD11 whether it is one big file or several small ones.
Thank you for your time.
Hi Maarten,
Thanks for taking time creating this NEX VG30 review.
Especially for being very relax and clear on each features.
Can I please have your thoughts on this ... ?
I wanna shot videos to make a set of video lesson.
(I will stand in front of a whiteboard - indoor
and out door with blurry background)
However, I'm confused which video camera should I use.
I've searched the net and found 3 options :
* Canon 70D Camera
* Sony NEX VG30
* Sony NEX VG900
I need to be able to shoot with continuous focus,
that's why I thought Canon 70D would be great,
as I watched a lot of youtube review about this
and read this review article
www.tomsguide.com/us/canon-70d-dslr,review-2182.html
But DSLR camera like Canon 70D has time limitation which
can be tricky to be use on long hour shooting video.
However, if I go for the Sony NEX VG900,
which has full frame censor, the auto focus will not be activated
on the full frame mode unless I switch to the APS-C censor.
So what I need is a video camera with :
* Both continuous focus and manual focus
as sometime I shoot indoor and sometime outdoor,
and when shooting outdoor, I wanna blur the background.
* Manual control on iso, etc so it will look great on low light
* External mic input jack
* Ability to shoot long hour
* High quality result
what are you thoughts ?
So do you think Sony NEX VG30 can suit my need ?
Thank you
Jo
Jo Jo Thanks for the kind words. Not sure why continuous focus is a concern - it sounds like the distance between the presenter and the camera is fairly constant. If that's not the case, and manual focus (which I would prefer) isn't a solution) I would imagine that face detection (which is continuous) would be your best approach to maintain exposure and focus.
If you do want the background to be out of focus, you'll need to choose your lens, your location and set the distances carefully - it's not as easy to do as it seems (th-cam.com/video/FgpHdMxv2rg/w-d-xo.html). For outdoors you'll definitely want an ND filter.
I'd eliminate the VG900 fairly quickly on price alone - and the 70D on the length limitation (although you could overcome this by adding an Atomos recorder and still come out under the VG900).
So from the models you've suggested, the VG30 might be the best option, as it does include all of the features you list.
I haven't reviewed the PXW-X70, which rates a look, or the CX900 - similar to the AX100 (th-cam.com/video/SHSplI0x6vU/w-d-xo.html) but without 4K. For the money, that might be my best recommendation for your needs.
***** Hi Maarten, Thank you soooo much for taking time to reply my questions with detailed explanation and suggestions and the links to the other videos.
Do you think I don't need continuous focus when I move a lot while teaching in front of the whiteboard ?
last question, what lens do I need to shoot my self indoor (teaching in front of the whiteboard) ?
Thank you,
Jo
PS : I love your video review. Please make more video reviews :)
Jo Jo I really do appreciate your comments, thanks! You won't need continuous focus if you move back and forth, only if you move closer and farther from the camera - and (as long as you have reasonable lighting and a moderate F stop, you should be able to get some closer and farther latitude. Continuous auto focus will "breathe" - slip in and out of focus, where manual will not,which is why (whenever possible) I recommend it.
The lens you need depends on how much lighting there is (how wide an aperture you need) and how far away you are (how long a focal length you need). Then, of course, it should be compatible with the camera. I'm working on more reviews - but it does take time.
***** Thank you so much Maarten. you save me a lot of time & money. You're my hero :)
Jo Jo Always nice to hear that I've been able to assist someone else.
Do you think this will go down in price?
Would be about 100 thousand Hungarian Forint it, I think they will never sell for so much to ...
Maybe when a new model is introduced ...
***** But then I can't buy, becoue his status:
"Sold out" and never come back, I realy sad, becouse I have somany film idea, and I cant do without this camera..
is it FULL frame?
It is APS-C (00:07) sized. The NEX VG900 is full frame.
7분 줌
질문을 하시겠습니까?
No new is good new Nex-VG30 ...
Hung Bao I'm not sure what Sony's plan is for this line of cameras.
ok
ur shakiness drives me insane.
Maybe there's medication that could help?
called the stabilization button, lol
you might wanna try it... hahah
GarryReynolds1 Stabilization was on. With these larger sensors, it's not nearly as effective as on other camcorders.
focus non corresponding lens
Could you please provide a more detailed question/comment? I don't understand.
Is there a way to stop the noise on the settings?