Good camera for Keying

[dbakerstl]

We are needing to replace our current camera because the s-video port broke (cost to repair just didnt seem worth it for a 6+ year old camera...), it was an older 3ccd sony camera, and video quality was good, but was wondering if we would get a better key with component...

But I was shocked to find like NO cameras that are reasonably affordable have component out, only svideo and composite.

We are a highschool, and do not have much to spend mid-year on a camera, but would like to put our TC back to work :)

Any suggestions?

Can you get cameras without a dv deck for cheaper? Or are we just SOL and having to spend 2500$ for a camera?

We have been looking at the canon gl2, but it only have svideo out...

What do you think?

-Dan

[ted]

The key to helping you, or anyone, is to know your price range.
If $2,500 is too much, your options are greatly reduced if you need component out.
And YES, component helps considerably when doing Chroma Key.
Yes, there are several cameras now without "decks" included. Panasonic has weveral now that might fall into your price range.
I can't keep up with all the new model numbers now days since manufacturers put several new models per year now days.
Best of luck.

[dbakerstl]

I am just not sure why more cameras do not have component out... it seems like it would be a CHEAP part to add to a camera that already has svideo etc...

If a camera has HDMI out could you do HDMI to Component, or would you loose what your are trying to gain with the converstion?

[bob anderson]

I've used the Canon VIXIA HF11 and it's biger brother the S100 for keying, and it does a great job. The HF11 is around $600, and the S100 is $900. Both have component out.

Bob Anderson

[dbakerstl]

the question is I guess what will give me better results?

We currently have a Sony 3ccd (1/4.7in ccds) using svideo...old camera.... and now its broken :)

Or a single CMOS Canon like the one you mentioned...

I am also looking at some used: Panasonic AG-DVX100B

3ccd (1/3in) but no component, only svideo...

The Canon is cheaper than the Panasonic (new canon 900-1000, used panasonic $1600) I am just not keen enough on the video stuff to know what will get me the best results on the key.

[dbakerstl]

I've used the Canon VIXIA HF11 and it's biger brother the S100 for keying, and it does a great job. The HF11 is around $600, and the S100 is $900. Both have component out.

Bob Anderson

Thanks!!!!

Just got the HFS100 in today and hooked it up. That camera keys just as good as the $2500 3ccd panasonic we demoed... So no problems there :) Overall a great camera, and has color profile for tungston lamps, and allows override of the auto gain, along with turning off stable shot etc... Thanks for your help :)

-Dan