I was looking at the XF300 today and noticed that the zoom does not appear to be mechanical but run by some kind of a servo, the result being a lag, not a big one, but it seemed dramatically different from my Sony Z7 lens which seems much more precise. I like the camera, but that seemed kind of a deal breaker. Is this a setting issue, or is that the way the camera operates? Any one have experience with this?

Jack Hubbard

I think the "lag" is something you get used to - it isn't very big at all. There are two active zoom controls on the XF300 (well, thrree, but the lens ring and rocker can't be active at the same time). I have the rocker on the handgrip set for faster zooming and the one on top of the camera set for slower, more precise zooming. I think it's pretty cool - but I agree that fly-by-wire takes a bit of getting used to.

Larry

If you start the zoom neither fully in or out, there is no lag or take-up...

Have to say I haven't really noticed any lag on mine.

Thanks for the input, guys. Got the XF300. Amazing images. At 50 mbs, they are beautiful, but take up lots of video space. Trying the lower rates now. Any thoughts?

Jack,

I guess it depends on what you are shooting, but I would never even consider shooting at lower rates just to save a little storage space. Why buy a very nice camera and then hobble it? Memory cards and hard drives are amazingly cheap these days, so cost should not be a concern. My philosophy is simple: If it's worth shooting, it's worth shooting with the best possible settings your camera is capable of. I have never once come home from a shoot and regretted not shooting with the best settings. :-)
That's my thoughts.

Mastering the Canon XF305/300 Camcorders training DVD (http://www.vortexmedia.com/DVD_XF305.html)

Many thanks, Doug. I agree. Dealing with the larger files seems to provide the same challenge as you have with a 7D but the result will be well worth it.
Regards,

Jack