recommend camera

[1nfinite]

Hi, I just returned from a trip & think its time to move on from the go pro as doesnt do what I want from a video camera.

I have been looking at the Sony RX100 iii seems to be next step up the ladder.

Am wanting zoom & colour balance so thinking this will do the job or any better cameras out there I should be looking at instead? I dont mind spending more cash if its worth it.
Am not into photography just video.

Also I want to use with my archon 2600 lumen light.

Any opinons help thanks.

 

[Mike-G]

I have a JVC adixxion camera ... similar to the go pro. I have the same issues with it that you have with he gp and am also looking for a camcorder that I can build a housing for. I have a Sony PJ810 which has their balanced stability control. The lens actually floats inside the camera. I think it might be a bit fragile to bring on a dive boat and am looking for a <$400 camera I can use instead. I am finding that a lot in this range will not accept a wide angle lens and my previous camcorder / homemade housing used a wide angle lens and I got great results. That camera is an old tape camera and isn't HD ... hence my wanting to upgrade. I am at a loss for a new camera. Have you made a decision yet?

 

[1nfinite]

Hi Mike, no I havent been doing any diving to warrant the investment, but think would go with the Sony RX100 iii

But then I am not well knowledgeable tbh, hence why I started this thread without any replies

The Sony PJ810 sounds a great camera. I would go with that & maybe also build something to keep it secure on the boat?

Shame there isnt more discussion from more experienced camera peeps on here, just seems to be all about the action cameras.

Cheers,
C.

 

[snowdog61]

Try WetPixel - as they are a bit more focused on that subject

 

[diversteve]

^^ Video Gear and Technique

I'm also a traditional video camera shooter - currently an older HD Sony tape model but I've been looking at the AX100 as it shoots 4K. I'm only shooting for myself though. Not sure on housing yet either but possibly the Aditech Mangrove - I have an Amphibico EVO so prefer electronic controls - otherwise I'd buy the Gates. You have to buy the more expensive Mangrove to shoot 4K so the whole rig winds up being over $5K w/camera - not counting extra ports.

One that I'm not sure of is the BlackMagic cinecams - they sound good but footage I've seen all seemed a little "soft" but I haven't viewed anything recently. Nauticam or Ikelite house it. Blackmagic Design: Products At one time they made a splash in the video world but now seem to have been superceded by more recent models. Decent pricing on the base models and the Ikelite housing only runs about $900 since it fits their usual form factor.

I've seen some really good video shot with the RX100 III. The newer model is the RX100 M4 - I haven't seen any results yet although I'm sure they're out there. Also the Panasonic GH4.

I personally think it's the future of prosumer u/w video - not housed camcorders. L&M is basically out of that space, I've not been able to figure out what's going on with Amphibico since they were bought by Aquatica a few years back and Gates seems to be more focused on the pro market lately - although they still house some of the Sony consumer cams.

I think the reason there's a lack of response here is that the image quality of the Gopro's is so good that the convenience outweighs the obvious limitations - esp. for most people shooting for Youtube, their friends etc.

my 02, I'm not really current though although I do follow Wetpixel. And maintain this forum housing list although I'm woefully behind on that now also.

 

[mattia_v]

Not my site, but have a read:

Interceptor121 Underwater Photo & Video Blog

uses various RX100 models, does a lot of (mostly) video, and a number of MFT models.

 

[Trigger-F]

Nice video but the footage is not that steady. Is it because it has no image stabilization? I've been thinking about the same, i.e.go with an RX 100 IV for video, however, even the housing is small and underwater might still be a little hard to control, end up with jerky video(aka Gopro syndrom). Camcoders have image stabilization so may be better for video..

A GoPro mounted on a DSLR or large camera produces a more pleasing to the eye effect. Of course it's challenging to do any macro work with a gopro ..