Leaderboard

There's a concept that no-one talks about, and that I think is one of the most important things that exists with equipment, which is how using it makes you feel. We all know the trope about content being more important than image quality, but no-one here talks about the factors that make the content good, and I think that a key factor in that is how we feel while we are filming. If we are fighting with the tech then we will be frustrated, less efficient, and generally in a bad mood. Like when anyone is in a bad mood, this will radiate out to the people you are working with, the people who are around you, and perhaps the people in the frame. The opposite picture is also true. If we are using equipment we love, then we will be upbeat, calm, and will have a positive impact on those around us. Film-making is art, and art is about creative expression, which comes from a place of emotion. Obviously, if a camera is fiddly to use and the ergonomics are crap then that's a challenge, but I find that the biggest barrier to feeling good while filming, at least for me, is knowing what kind of images I am creating, and this is all about colour for me, and it sounds like it might be the same for you as well. Going back to Sony vs Canon, considering that you're using FCP and don't want to learn colour grading, I'd suggest going with the camera with the best colour science that you can justify (ie, it has to work practically with those "other factors" you mentioned). Definitely wait for the A74, as Sony colour science is getting significantly better with each generation, but make sure you're looking at footage that is SOOC rather than had a colourist put lots of work into it. Best of luck, and don't forget that the equipment are just tools to get the outcome you want, and a great experience captured with a lower quality camera will make a much nicer video than a lacklustre experience taken with the best camera in the world, and while filming you're influencing the situation.

I've included a poll. I am looking to get better video/photos SOOC. I'm a full-time teacher and don't have the time/space to learn colorgrading or even colorgrade much more than basic adjustments. I've enjoyed my a7III over my previous XT4. That said the skin tones and color just don't cut it for me. Looking for Advice. Canon vs. Sony only ... Panasonic/Fuji autofocus takes them out of the running. Thoughts?

This is asking for some love for everyone who loves pictures:

100% It's a patient and logical idea - thanks! Yea - i'll see how the color space looks on the a7IV when videos come out in the next few weeks. The comment on the R5 makes me hopeful. I really, also, like the idea of being able to use cheaper EF mount lenses with no degradation in quality of image or autofocus. Funny you say that! I don't us a PP and learned that from Kraig Adams and his videos on YouTube (epic travel/hiking videos - 100% must watch!). But when I look at a video from Canon there is just a magical quality that draws me in and those I watch with. I really want to have that on Sony due to the other factors that make Sony excellent. NLE - FCP That's probably true and makes sense, but as I noted - I'm a full-time educator and due this for hobby/work stuff and don't have the time to put a lot of effort - so SOOC is most likely what i'll be able to do with light curve adjustments and then process/edit move-on.