Solid Video Cameras: The Canon GL1, Canon GL2 and the Panasonic DVX100A
As technology keeps improving, it is hard to keep up with the latest gadget.
I’m sure you already know this, but for a filmmaker, it can be frustrating because if you want to buy a camera, you want to keep in mind that it has to produce a level of quality for you not only for now, but ideally for the next several years, so that you really get your money’s worth.
Unless you are shooting features, I would not go crazy with an expensive camera. Nothing over $10,000.
Don’t break a sweat though, I’m not even thinking in that ballpark in terms of price.
I’ve noticed over the years that the same cameras keep popping up. The DPs that I’ve worked with like them. They’re relatively simple but offer a lot of important features, and they are in a reasonable price range.
Here are my two favorites:
The Canon GL1, Canon GL2 and the Panasonic DVX100A.
Before I continue, I want to make clear that I come from an ACTING background, not a technical one. I am not a cinematographer but I’ve had to familiarize myself with the technology as a director.
I like these cameras because even though they are not HD, they will give you a nice picture and they allow you to manually adjust the shot.
**VERY IMPORTANT** They have external sound jacks, which means you can use a mic other than the one that is inside the camera.
This is key to making movies, even shorts, because poor sound quality is a sure give away to low production value. It’s the kind of thing that no one notices if it’s good, but everyone notices if it’s bad.
I’m not going to get into all the details, but these cameras also have a lot of accessory possibilities that will allow you to get more technical and professional with your shots as you grow into the camera.
They use Mini DV as storage which isn’t going to go anywhere any time soon.
Festivals accept films shot with these cameras. I’ve worked with feature film DP’s that like them.
And all of these cameras can be found on the Internet for under two grand, although the DVX100A might be challenging to find. You will probably come across the DVX100B which is in the $3K price range, but if you are going to pay that much, better to go with a lower end HD cam.
Canon GL1
