TZ1 Videos

[Setter Dog]

Hi Folks,....first let me say that I sometimes get engaged in analysis paralysis before buying something. Often that leads to fretting over something that really isn't important. Once I buy the product, I seem to be very forgiving and can seldom find fault with anything.

I was just about to go for the Canon S3 due to the good write ups on the video mode, even though I didn't like the size of the unit. I am replacing a Sanyo C5 and will use the new unit in the field during my quail hunts and hikes. The Sanyo fits in a shirt pocket.

I stumbled across Jeff's review of the Panasonic TZ1 and it seems to be exactly what I need, will probably fit in my shirt pocket. I didn't like the non viewfinder aspect of this camera until I remembered that my C5 doesn't have one either and has never been a limitation. Since videos are very important to me, I really like what I read about the TZ1. I can get along fine with several 2GB cards. Then I read that, although the zoom can be used during video use, the focus does not change while taking video, but merely locks in to the focus when you begin filming. I assume this is true but I wonder if it really matters.

I'd appreciate any input. Thanks very much!

[JMBZ71]

Then I read that, although the zoom can be used during video use, the focus does not change while taking video, but merely locks in to the focus when you begin filming. I assume this is true but I wonder if it really matters.

I'd appreciate any input. Thanks very much!

Not true. Just make sure CONT.AF is on and you can use the zoom at will in video mode on the TZ1. The zoom will be slower but you should have no AF issues in video mode.

The primary reason I bought a TZ1 is because I'm an avid Pheasant hunter and wanted an ultra-zoom I could carry with me while hunting. For easy access, I keep the TZ1 in a Lowepro Rezo 50 camera pouch attached to my shell belt.

Hope that helps you make a decision.

JMB :)

[maccrazy]

I'd say the TZ1 probably has the best video quality I have seen on a digital camera. It's not perfect, but it is very good (probably similar to a lower end video camera). If they could reduce the noise a little bit in photos and add H.264 compression for videos in the TZ2, I think it would probably be the perfect camera. :)

[JPW2020]

I dont agree.I have both a TZ1 and an S2 which essentially the same movie quality as the S3.The TZ1 is a great little camera but its video quality does not compare to that of the S2 both picture and sound.

It has an O.K. movie mode but tends to be slightly "blockier" and the sound is poor.The video from the S2 is far superior.If you intend to edit your movies you will particularly notice the difference when you save the finished product.

Canon do offer smaller models with the same video quality but different features,not superzooms.Your decision depends on your priorities ,camera size or video quality.

[JMBZ71]

JPW... I think you made some valid points. I've only taken a few short video clips with the TZ1 and have to admit, I haven't been real impressed with the video quality either.

Setter Dog mentioned that he's a quail hunter and I do think the TZ1 fits the hunter's niche well because of it's size and optical zoom. I think most hunters, myself included, would favor those features over video quality.

JMB :)

[JPW2020]

JPW... I think you made some valid points. I've only taken a few short video clips with the TZ1 and have to admit, I haven't been real impressed with the video quality either.

Setter Dog mentioned that he's a quail hunter and I do think the TZ1 fits the hunter's niche well because of it's size and optical zoom. I think most hunters, myself included, would favor those features over video quality.

JMB :)

That makes sense.The movie mode isn't dreadful it just doesn't compare to the S2.I bought my TZ1 as a pocketable backup camera when the S2 is too big and yet there is an awful lot about it that I prefer to the S2 including build,ease of use and image quality in good light situations.

If setter dog chooses the TZ1 I dont think he will regret it unless movie mode quality is of critical importance.

[Setter Dog]

Thanks folks,....it's great to have input from actual users. I was out Wednesday and Thursday and took a lot of videos with the little Sanyo. Watching them today, I realized that the videos are more important than stills to me,...mainly because the talking I do on the video is like keeping a diary. I really enjoy these videos in the off season.

JMB, thanks for clearing up the focus thing on the TZ1. As for video quality, it seems everyone rates the Canon product higher than Pany. Canon also has some models with viewfinders, a feature I like. Unfortunately, only the Pany TZ1 has 10x zoom. Bottom line for me is probably going to be size. Quality of videos or stills is not important if you don't have the camera with you.

If anyone has any more input, I'd be grateful.

Thanks,...Jack (aka Setter Dog)