- Average user rating: 4.0 stars out of 8 reviews Back to product review
- My rating: 0 stars
Full user review
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8 out of 8 people found this review helpful
4.5 stars
"Great for event videography"
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.
