Camera Purchase Suggestions

[harryk]

Sometime this year or next year I want to purchase a new camera for video. For the last six years I've been shooting with a Canon Vixia HG21 but lately I've been more and more displeased with it, particularly with the image quality and lack of controls. I want to get something that is more along the lines of a prosumer/professional camera, however my budget is only about $1000-$2000(max) for a complete setup. 

 

I'll accept any and all suggestions and advice. I'd prefer to purchase something new but am not afraid of refurbished or used as long as its coming from a reputable source. 

 

 

Things I'm looking for:

 

-Shooting Performance: I often film sports action, nature stuff, occasional indoor skits(often in low-light).

 

-Controls: Probably the most important thing I want are easy to use manual controls designed for video.

 

-Resolution: For the time being I intend to continue editing in 1080p so 4K is not necessary however it'd be a big plus to have for purposes of downsampling or cropping, or if I decide I want to start editing in 4K.

 

-Lens: Something to cover a fairly wide range of focal length. Though I do find myself often wishing for a wider view in a tight location more than increased zoom. 

 

-Mic: External mic input is a must, with stereo support.

 

-Battery Life: At least two hours, be that with a single battery or two.

 

-Size: Not too concerned with size/weight. I almost always use a tripod but don't want something too big or heavy since I often have to run to catch the action at live events.

 

[harryk]

what currency? 

The blackmagic pocket cinema is a good little camera it does 1080p 12bit raw/prores These cameras sell dirt cheap on ebay

And I think with the Blackmagic Micro Studio Camera 4K you could get 10bit prores/raw with a external recorder tho i dont know because the camera is not out yet 

 

the mic really depends on what you want to shoot because there are different types of mics

 

Currency is USD. 

 

I didn't realize the Blackmagic pocket camera could be had for so much below MSRP. How does it compare to more traditional pro camcorders though? Is it really dependent on preparation(i.e. studio setup) or does it perform well on the fly?

 

As for mic, I will probably get something like the Rode Stereo VideoMic for general purpose and if budget allows a directional shotgun for when needed. 

[Silvercall]

I have a BMPCC.  Be aware that you do need to color correct the files if you want to get the best out of the camera.  The files are flat otherwise. Do you have m43 lenses or will you be using an adaptor?  I use a metabones speed booster with my Nikon mount lenses.  The dynamic range is really nice (13 stops I think).  Are you going to go bare bones with just a pistol grip and mic, possible a viewfinder?  The lcd screen on the back is very hard to use in bright light, so I'd suggest using a viewfinder/shade...  There are several reviews online/youtube, which I would suggest watching before you decide on the BMPCC.  Its not for everyone but if you can overcome the quirks it can produce great files.

 

Maybe check out the GH4. 

[harryk]

Thanks for your thoughts everyone, I've got some good stuff to mull over. The Blackmagic Pocket Camera seems to be a very good looking option. Color grading is something I do have a little experience with in still photography but would like to learn more about. One concern I have is focusing. With fast unpredictable action how do you handle focusing, zoom, and panning simultaneously? I suppose this isn't necessarily pertinent to the Blackmagic, but to any manual camera.