Panasonic AJ-PX270 Video Review: Better than a DSLR?

Panasonic AJ-PX270 Video Review

Here's another take on the Panasonic AJ-PX270, a camera that Redshark News contributor Barry Braverman called "a broadcast camera in the palm of your hand." In this video review, Matthew Abourezk explores whether this camera could replace your DSLR for video.

We reviewed the Panasonic AJ-PX270 last year. Veteran Hollywood cinematographer Barry Braverman was impressed with the lightweight, yet feature-filled, fixed lens camcorder. A few concerns aside, the verdict was that the AJ-PX27, with its ability to record up to 200Mbps 10-bit 4:2:2 HD, 22x optical zoom, pro-friendly layout of buttons / ports, and multiple options for recording media, delivers a Boradcast ENG featureset in a compact form and at a relatively low price (currently $5750.00 at B&H).

Many of you may have your hearts set on making your next camera purchase a 4K shooter. While it generally makes sense to future proof, for freelance shooters and smaller houses, greater considerations may be whether clients are asking for 4K yet and if your turnaround times preclude you from capturing at 4K and downscaling for HD delivery. If you foresee that it may be another year or so before shooting 4K becomes a necessity for you or your company, you should consider getting the best HD camera that you can get for the money and getting as much use out of it as you can.

Below, Matthew Abourezk gives us his testimony on the Panasonic AJ-PX270, but tackles the issue from a different angle. In the video, Abrourezk describes why he switched from exclusively shooting HDSLR video to regarding the AJ-PX270 as his go-to camera. I'm sure other shooters who started out in DSLR video are in the same boat. Even if you're dead-set on making your next purchase a 4K camera, it's still worth exploring more video-oriented form factors for your next purchase.

For more videos by Matthew Abrourezk, including a HDSLR rigging tutorial, check out his YouTube channel.