HD or SD in terms of focus on the F350?
 

Hi, I have decided to buy an F350, and I have a demo unit to use while I wait for mine. I will be shooting hockey news, viz and clips, which will get fed in SD from the camera.

When shooting the practice visuals, it is necessary to follow focus as players move up and down the ice(more than a little callenging). From that point of view, is focus more critical when recording in HD than DVcam mode, or does it make any difference after downconverting?

From another discussion, I understand that the color quality of my feed material should be better if I shoot in HD.

Any thoughts on the best way to work are appreciated. Thanks

Well I'll answer my own question.

Just came back from the morning skate, I shot 1080i. Fed the footage to Toronto in 16/9 SD. They said the footage looked good. I came back home and took a look on my old Sony PVM8020 monitor, and the footage looked nice and sharp. No focus problems, I was shooting at f5.6 for the most part. Interviews looked fantastic, just used the preset 3200k and an Anton Baurer Ultra light.

BTW, I tried using my Dionic 90, and had no problems with the sungun. Someone had said earlier about Anton Baurer not recommending the Dionic 90 for this camera, but so far it looks to be just fine. However, I kind of like the steadiness and balance with my AB Hytron 140 a bit better.
I have to say that I am starting to really enjoy this camera. My reporter is pretty stoked about it too!

You might notice any focus problems if you view the footage on a HD monitor. Since you have more resolution that is when the focus issues become more apparent.

No doubt, but fortunately, this is sports news, and all they really care about is sound(clips). Definitly will have to get a HD monitor though!

No doubt, but fortunately, this is sports news, and all they really care about is sound(clips). Definitly will have to get a HD monitor though!

I'm liking the Fuji HSs18x5.5 quite a bit. Nice reach, and pretty crisp.

Stay around 5.6 as you did an you should be OK any more and it starts to get a little more difficult.