HC7, What was wrong?

[DaFireMedic]

Hi,
I think the CMOS sensor of the HC3 has very poor low light performances...
I probably jumped to quickly to HDV, but HC7, even with its 2lux sensi. seems to show the same poor perf.
I think we need a 3 CMOS or 3 CCD small HD cam, that doesn't exist yet on Sony catalog...

PhD

According to Camcorderinfo.com, the HC-3 had significantly better low light sensitivity than the HC-7, if Camcorderinfo.com's tests are reliable, and I have found them to be. The HC-3 was rated among the better performers in low light among consumer camcorders. Because of this, it may be a better underwater camcorder than the HC-7, although I would take the HC-7 for topside stuff because of the increased compatibility with necessary accessories.

To get the small size and relatively low cost of consumer camcorders, we trade off some video performance and controls from the pro level camcorders, especially in low light. 3 CCD's in and of itself won't cure the low light problem. My HV20 (single CMOS) kills my Panasonic PV-GS300 (with 3 CCD's) in low light, although 3 CCD's may deal with some of the color problems at the heart of this thread.

 

[drbill]

That is interesting. It seems that you tend to shoot at deeper depths than I do, I wonder if that is causing the difference? What's the latest on your L&M housing deal?

Actually I've been shooting shallow (generally above 60-70 ft) since my last video light failed. I am finding that certain subjects like giant sea bass can be overexposed under certain conditions (but the same bass if it moves may become properly exposed... haven't correlated the difference in conditions yet).

The L&M deal is still in the works although they are taking a lot of time to evaluate the footage and finalize the goals. I'm supposed to know well before DEMA.