I just received the Sony RX100 in the mail. As far as compact pocketable cameras go, this is the one to get, especially with a sensor almost twice as large as it's competitors, and knowing it has full manual controls in video mode. Results on the web have already proved the camera's capabilities obtaining amazing quality in both still images and in video. While Amazon still has not received inventory, I just got notification that B&H should be shipping Sony RX100 orders today if you're interested in this amazing little camera. Check it out (click here).
I don't know how many of you have been following the Sony RX100. With a sensor that's practically twice the size of it's competitors, it appears to be an amazing camera with amazing reviews everywhere. Not surprising to many fans who were already amazed with the quality from the HX9V. Convinced, I had already sold off my smaller Sony HX20V point and shoot camera, waiting for the release of this RX100 but it has been consistently unavailable since it's announcement.
Sony shows they are serious about this market, and have added Manual Controls to video mode. Flattering many would compare the RX100 to larger interchangeable lens cameras (even better than some), but there's no denying this is probably the best pocketable Stills and Video camera available today. Normally on eBay you could find some shipping from overseas, but those have a different frame rate for video (50p instead of 60p). While they are still out of stock on Amazon, B&H, and other major retailers, the official Sony store on eBay has some in stock just today. Anyone else as excited? I'm glad I sold off all of my other little Sony cameras, and just purchased the R100 this very moment. As the only option for USA buyers, i'm guessing this could sell out fast (Click here for Sony RX100)
Sony DSC-RX100 20.2 MP Exmor CMOS Sensor Digital Camera
I was very impressed with Sony's HX9V and now I also own the HX20V. If you're not familiar with these little Sony cameras, they offer full 1080p @60fps, and the best image stabilization for a point and shoot. I guess I should have waited around, because this new RX100 looks to be the better camera. It shares some of the same features as the HX cameras, but now with a much larger sensor and an F/1.8 lens, the little point and shoot cam should perform quite well in low light situations.
I thought my new HX20V was already pretty good in dim lighting! It's still a few weeks out before the release date, and besides what you hear in the video review above, there's some additional specs at the product page via B&H (Click Here).
Each Sony NPF style camcorder battery runs at 7.4V. By running them in series, it works at 14.8V which is the minimum power required for the 600 and 900 LED light panels at full brightness. I took two basic Sony NPF battery chargers, gutted them, and then wired them in Series to provide 14.8V DC.
Remove two screws under the rear sticker and then pry apart case
To wire up the cases for Series, basically you take the Negative wire from one and the Positive wire from the other and connect them to the barrel plug. The other two wires (negative and positive) from each charger would be connected together.
Sorry for poor diagram
Next I added a bit of extended wire and used my Barrel Plug (shown here) to connect directly to the LED light. The Barrel Connector is super easy to work with (no soldering), and is clearly marked with + and - for positive / negative placement. It's a very simple and cheap DIY to provide portable power for these large LED panels. If you want use heavier batteries, just make the wiring longer and mount to your light stand.
[Disclaimer] Attempt this DIY at your own risk. Using your batteries in other ways than intended may cause premature failure of your batteries, or damage.
This camera was quite a buzz around NAB2012, but it comes in at a starting price of $7999. The camera they say is 4K capable, but won't get the feature unlocked until a firmware release later this year. For now it's outputting 1080, but throws in some built in ND Filters. Nice touch. This camera should appeal to those who were almost considering the C300 at double the price, but at least they have the hopes of 4K output. Any current FS100 shooters thinking about the upgrade or maybe replace your A cam? Available for PreOrder today via B&H (click here).
I'm officially lovin' the new Sony NEX-7 camera that just dropped in today. The quality, performance, and build is amazing. So far i've tried the Canon 28mm FD lens, Rokinon 35mm F/1.4, and Nikon 50mm F/1.8. Of course my favorite is the Nikon 50mm F/1.8 pancake because it keeps the camera pretty small (that's the whole point of using an NEX7). Sorry I have no samples yet as I haven't had anything interesting to shoot today.
The video quality is also quite amazing, but it's nearly impossible to shoot hand held with this tiny camera and these old manual lenses. The Nikon 50mm F/1.8 feels more like it's at 100mm (without image stabilization). My solution is to use the dual PNC Custom Pistol grips and friction arm configuration. Instead of using it 'fig rig' style, I turned the rear handle sideways and used it more like a gun stock placed against my chest. This made a world of difference and totally eliminated the micro vibrations and rolling shutter 'jello' effect. When it's time to pack things away, the whole setup breaks down to just two handles and a folding arm. The Custom PNC Pistol Grip Camera Handles are back in stock at PhotographyandCinema.com or via eBay for International buyers (below).
Is smaller really better? That seems to be the trend lately for many camera manufacturers like Sony and Panasonic. Recently Sony announced the NEX-C3, what they called the 'smallest interchangeable lens camera'. Before it was even availble, Panasonic didn't wait too long to steal that thunder. The new Panasonic GF3 (I just bought the GF2 - wth?) comes in just a tad smaller and takes away Sony's short lived title.
As for smaller Interchangeable Lens cameras go, my bet is the GF3 will be the better performer on the market with it's already huge following in the Micro Four Thirds world. There also seems to be more support and compatibility for adapting any type of lens. Right now, i'm having fun with the GF2, and it's been a blast using those inexpensive C-mount lenses. So if you're current DSLR is weighing you down on vacation, these are the new smaller models that are both available for Pre-order via Amazon.
Sony RX100 Digital Camera
