As I get more comfortable with my AF100 through everyday use, I have come to understand its benefits and downfalls. For the $4,500 price tag, I believe it to be a superb video camera. Most people will agree with me. However, it is not fairly compared to something like the F3 or such standards as ARRI or RED. And, it is hard to compare this video system to something like Canon 5D mark II. The quality of the 5D is superior due to the full-frame sensor, but the difficulty of using a HDSLR as a true video camera can turn off a typical video professional.
My overall take on the Panasonic AG-AF100 is that it is a great mid price point video camera. Give you a more shallow depth of field, allows the use of great lenses, and costs much less than the cameras it is compared to. If you are used to the 5D, this camera will probably fall short on quality of the image, but its ease of use will be a blessing. And, if you have the money to purchase a ARRI or RED … get that instead. But, for a new video production company owner, like myself, this is a great camera for online video production. This camera, with the Olympus f/2.0 lenses has allowed me to create a far superior product than my old Panasonic AG-HMC150. While I love this camera, and it works great for event videography and run and gun shooting, it does not give you any shallow depth of field or honest manual settings. Know your industry and what needs you have for your production and go from there.
My true passion in life is photography. While no one will ever surpasses Ansel Adams — photographic perfection — digital artists are starting to inspire me with their use of our new technology, exceptional photojournalism, and all without the use of exaggerated editing in post. In my most recent research for a new camera, I uncovered the new world of HDSLR video production. Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought about shooting professional videos with a DSLR camera. Hundreds and thousands of people are using their Canon 5D Mark II or Panasonic GH2 daily to produce gorgeous videos. Although, none better than Philip Bloom and Vincent Laforet.
Vincent Laforet is a remarkable director of photography and photojournalist — recognized by everyone from the Cannes Lions International Advertising Festival to the Pulitzer Prize. His blog — blog.vincentlaforet.com — is by far one of the best resources on the web for shooting and production tips. Whenever I have a professional question, I reference it first.
Philip Bloom is a visual genius creating perfect examples of artistic online videos without over-producing his work. He can make a small sample project with a new camera a true work of art. On top of this, like all good creatives, Philip continues to craftily explore new ways to use HDSLR videography to produce forward-thinking product. His blog — PhilipBloom.net — has become my visual inspiration.
My favorite video of his is entitled “A day at the races.” This is a video I can literally watch over and over again for inspiration in my work. It is beautiful.
My second favorite video, Philip’s mom preparing a meal for them in the kitchen — “Home Cooking.” Wonderfully shot, and so simple in execution.
Most recently he posted a video entitled “A Room With A View: A year of timelapses from hotel rooms!” Again, a simple collection of experimental footage, shot over the course of a year, made into a great online video.

2010 Vimeo Festival + Awards
I make it no secret that Vimeo.com is my favorite video sharing site on the web. I spend hours a day watching new videos, listening to music and learning new shooting techniques, all on one website. Unlike Youtube, a majority of these videos are professionally produced or shot by true video enthusiasts.
Last year, Vimeo hosted the first-ever 2010 Vimeo Festival + Awards in New York City. The award winners were recently posted on the site and I have enjoyed watching all those honored. Amazing work in some very cool categories. Below is the documentary that took home best overall video. It’s worth a coffee break.
Categories of Stuff
Archives



