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"Great for event videography" on by KVBPRO
Pros: Amazing picture quality; onboard XLR connectors, 3-CCD; "heavy" feeling body
Cons: lack of ND filter switch
Summary: I am an event videographer, and I purchased an AG-DVC60 in September to replace my ailing camcorder. I was contemplating between the AG-DVC60 and a few other, less-costly cameras. But after doing lots of research, I purchased the AG-DVC60 and I am thoroughly impressed with it! Anyone looking to purchase a shoulder-mount 3-chip camera should SERIOUSLY consider the AG-DVC60.
First the images are simply amazing. Granted, it's a 3-CCD camera, but I've seen footage from more expensive 3-chip cameras, and they don't look as good. Second, the built-in XLR connectors are extremely useful when on-location. I don't have to worry about carrying a separate direct-inject box or some kind of line-level converter, as the XLR source plugs directly into the camera. Third, the "feel and look" of the camera conveys professionalism. When I first started out, I used Digital-8 camcorders (the handheld kind) and while the images were acceptable, I felt very awkward shooting events with a small, handheld camera (especially when guests would stand right next to me and shoot video with their own handheld camcorders). Having the larger, shoulder-mount size separates me from the consumer-grade cameras, and shows that I am serious about my work.
I wish the camera had a built-in ND filter switch, but I'm not going to lose sleep over that. My primary concern is to capture good, clean audio and video, and this camera allows for that. I purchased a Lowepro Commercial AW DV bag for this camera, and I can easily tote around the camera, a camera light, wireless/handheld mics in one bag.
I especially like the "flexibility" of the lens ring. I can program the ring to be used for focusing OR aperture. On my older cameras, I had to change exposure by using small slider bars or wheels, and that can be tough when trying to support a camera, focus on talent, and keep steady. But now, I can simply program the ring to do whichever function I want.
In addition, the variable zoom is great for super-slow/fast zooms. I used the slowest setting just recently when shooting a musical production, and the slow creep of the zoom made for a nice dramatic build to the scene.
I am impressed with Panasonic's service, as I had questions about the camera, and a very nice rep forwarded me literature about using the camera more productively. Needless to say, when I decided to upgrade my secondary camera a few weeks ago, I purchased ANOTHER AG-DVC60. It's quite an investment, but so far, I am quite happy with these two purchases. -
"This is a great camera it looks pro, shoots pro, and the end product is amazing for the price." on by Douglas Houdeshell
Pros: Shoulder-mount design for under $4k, XLR inputs, optical image stablilzation, color view finder, super long battery, and manual focus.
Cons: Nothing is ever perfect, the on board mic is a bit noisy but a windscreen helps a lot and costs like $2, would like to have had time lapse recording feature.
Summary: Overall this is a spectacular piece of equipment. I shoot weddings professionaly and this camera is head and shoulders above my previous one. Even with the gain cranked up there is still very little noise. The shoulder mount design is perfect for weddings, allowing you to move about and get very steady unobtrosive shots. The user presets are convienently located and easy to adjust. And the best part is the quality of the imaged captured, it is amazing. I would recomend this camara for anyone looking for an affordable professional camera.
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"Most bang for the buck!" on by bonnette
Pros: Pro feel and usage plus light weight, great features
Cons: zoom speed control could be better, VCR/Cam controls too close to REC button
Summary: Having been a professional videographer for 10+ years, using Broadcast Beta cameras, it is a pleasure to use a DV cam that is shoulder mounted, but weighs only 6 lb.
The broadcast quality bright viewfinder (that can be changed between color and B&W) is all you need. The LCD is only needed for viewing your shots from the side at a weird angle.
Naturally, the XLR IN's are fantastic to have and, lo and behold, they're mounted in the back where they belong, unlike models from Sony & JVC where the XLR is annoyingly side mounted (which may be fine for studio work but are a real pain for ENG).
I recently filmed a concert - as on stage camera - and, because of the camera being only 6 lb., was able to not only get different angles, but hold all angles longer without tiring. Tight close ups on (Bluesman) Taj Mahal flowing along the neck of his guitar and up to his face were smooth and steady, and nothing was missed from fatigue.
Also, the ability to change exposure seems amateurish (fly wheel) but, I found that I could smoothly make adjustments that would be un-noticable to the common eye, while filming the concert (as the stage lighting changed). The smooth operation of the wheel combined with the light weight of the camera made that possible!
As much as we hate to admit it, there are times when the professional "look" helps, when dealing with less-than-saavy clients and, especially, any time shooting in and aorund the general public. I had a much easier time getting people to move out of my way than my colleague with the hand held DV cameras (eg: Sony PD-170). It sounds laughable, but there ARE situations where that can help.
Having the USER buttons (which allow you to program some quick, one-button features, like the default of depressing USER 3 to get NTSC bars, then depress again to go back to CAMERA) is a great tool; it seems like a toy, but its really a tool!
Overall, I've been putting it through the paces since Feb. Low light, changing conditions, INT and EXT, Manual and Auto features and slow zooms (90 second steady full zoom, which was very impressive), and in all capacities the DVC-60 has performed marvelously.
The only draw back I have experienced is the close proximity of the VCR/CAM selection button to the RECORD and POWER buttons. Maybe its my sausage fingers, but there have been a couple of times when I have accidentally hit the VCR switch, when I did not mean to. -
"Great Camera for Event Videography" on by Destined2Lead
Pros: Sturdy, Good "feel" for longer shoots when you may want to go shoulder mounted, light enough for creative/cinematic style shooting, Great Battery Life (with Extended Battery)
Cons: No ND switch
Summary: I've owned this camera for 4 1/2 years and it has been a workhorse for my event videography business. Honestly, the only reason I have to upgrade is for shooting HD.
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"Güzel Sözler ve Msn Nickleri" on by diskjokey85
Pros: Güzel Sözler
Cons: Güzel Sözler
Summary: Thanks...
http://www.enguzelsozler.us
Panasonic AG-DVC60 user reviews
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