Guy Cochran
May 21st, 2008, 01:19 PM
We tested the Sony Z7U in a workshop with students getting some hands-on experience. I'd have to say the camera worked surprisingly well. As others have mentioned, as long as you understand the camera and go totally manual you can get great results.
We shot both to tape and compact flash simultaneously. The files from the compact flash imported directly into FCP flawlessly using Sony's plug-in.
I'm diggin' not having to use a FireStore or expensive P2 /SxS cards. Sure I do like the Canon XH-A1's picture and controls better, but for cost and workflow, the Z7U is a worthy contender against both the A1 and HVX200.
Here is a link to the footage acquired with the Z7U during the workshop. At the end you'll notice some Reflecmedia chromakeyed shots. Looks pretty clean for HDV. http://vimeo.com/973295
We shot both to tape and compact flash simultaneously. The files from the compact flash imported directly into FCP flawlessly using Sony's plug-in.
I'm diggin' not having to use a FireStore or expensive P2 /SxS cards. Sure I do like the Canon XH-A1's picture and controls better, but for cost and workflow, the Z7U is a worthy contender against both the A1 and HVX200.
Here is a link to the footage acquired with the Z7U during the workshop. At the end you'll notice some Reflecmedia chromakeyed shots. Looks pretty clean for HDV. http://vimeo.com/973295