panasonic HMC 150
 

Hi,

I'm new to the forum. I just bought the Panasonic HMC150 and yesterday was putting it thru its paces. I noticed several things that I'd like to get advice on. At full wide angle I don't seem to be able to get sharp focus (shooting 1080/30p). Does this camera have a parfocal lens? When I zoom in and focus on an object, I lose focus as I zoom out to full wide. What's the best way to get sharpest focus at full wide angle? What settings do I need to use in FCP (7) when I begin the log and transfer of the files? Both under "Settings" and "Easy Set-up"? Thanks, JOHN

I haven't experienced the loss of focus when going wide -- if you focus at a large aperture, at full zoom, using all of the available focusing aids, your focus should remain solid as you zoom-out. If not, contact Panasonic.

The easiest codec to work with in FCS is Apple Pro Res 422 (not HQ). Note that you'll need LOTS of HD space; an external RAID is recommended. You should use a card reader to dump everything in the PRIVATE folders on the HD -- don't split-up any files. Then, do the Log & Transfer. The Preferences are under the little gear wheel in the upper right corner of the Log & Transfer window.

If you're not aware of it, there is a great forum for the these cameras at: DVXuser.com - The Filmmaking Community

HMC150 focus
 

Thanks, Vic. I am coming from a still background and believe I'm looking at HD video in the same critical way I look at my still digital images. I do, however, see quite a difference in sharpness (exact focus?) when zoomed in close as opposed to zoom out to full wide angle. Is the lens on this Panasonic somewhat less sharp than at other focal lengths?

I haven't noticed much change on my 150, John. What's your Iris set at when close-in? The lens is at its best between f/4 & f/9.6. As a result of diffraction, I've heard of a very slight drop-off outside of those figures, but only by a few percent. What are you observing on? A hi-res external monitor & a resolution chart is needed for accurate measurement -- the EVF & LCD are not adequate for checking fine detail.

I'm relatively new to the camera, as well, but it's much sharper than my old Canon XL-1 that I used for years.

Sorry I can't be of more help.