anyone used a canon EOS 5D Mark 2 with final cut pro

[Mark Raudonis]

[Anna Brownfield] “I have to teach some journalist how to shoot video on it, but I can’t seem to find anything about its video codec or how it works with FCP….can anyone help? “

Anna,

Using this camera as a “video camera” for a journalist is probably the WORST idea possible. Film makers are flocking to this camera for it’s incredible imagery… NOT it’s ease of operation. A journalist would be MUCH better off buying a small, consumer grade HD video camera like the Canon:

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/597440-REG/Canon_3569B001_VIXIA_HF_S100_Flash.html

Or Sony even makes a smaller pocket sized camera.

If you’d like examples of how someone has really embraced the 5D format go here:

https://blog.vincentlaforet.com/

However, know that it records to a non standard frame rate (30p), poor native audio connectivity,
and at best, a bulky form factor. This is NOT a journalist’s best friend. (Indie filmmaker, perhaps)

mark

[Zane Barker]

There have been several posts here on the cow about using footage shot on the 5D Mark 2 in FCP.

To sum it up, the format that that camera records on is not edit friendly, as it must be converted first.

Do a search of the forums for more info.

There are no “technical solutions” to your “artistic problems”.
Don’t let technology get in the way of your creativity!

[Russell Lasson]

I really think that AJA’s Ki Pro with a 5D is going to be a great match. That way, you don’t have to record to a non-edit friendly codec like H264. In addition, you can use the Ki Pro to record the audio.

It’s really a natural fit.

-Russ

Russell Lasson
Universal Post
Ridgeline Digital Cinema Mastering
Salt Lake City, UT

[Mark Raudonis]

Russell,

True, But I think the intent of the original Poster was, “Hey, a photojournalist is out there and now they can just carry one camera for BOTH stills and video.”. It is this notion that is I’m commenting on.

Mark

[Anna Brownfield]

That is it. The journalists already carry two cameras as it it, so the idea is that one of them will be a 5D mark 2, they are also talking about a Nikon one but I don’t know which one yet.

I have heard that the audio is a problem and they are talking about using external mics, but I’m thinking how the hell are they going to mount a shotgun mic on it!!! A lapel is easy, if doing an interview….

The frame rate is annoying, particularly as they are based in Australia, how strange that even the PAL version is at 30 fps!

Thanks for all your tips and advice. Its food for thought. I know one major newspaper here has started to use them in the field and like them so far, once they sorted out the audio and also the frame rate!!

[Mark Raudonis]

Anna,

I may have to retract my initial criticism. Check this out.

https://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/30/technology/personaltech/30pogue.html?_r=1

It’s a review by David Pogue (NYTimes tech guru) about a new Panasonic SLR. Sounds like
they’ve hit the sweet spot that you’re looking for.

I still stand by my “form factor” comments, but it looks like things are heading in the direction that you’re hoping for.

Mark

[Anna Brownfield]

Thanks for that. Certainly very interesting. I love the fact they use the AVCHD codec!

Sounds good. And thanks again for the tip!

[Paul Blinn]

Great article (about the Panasonic). I’ve been interested in the 5D Mark II. I’m discouraged by its main shortcomings: no control over FPS, no viewfinder in Live Mode, no autofocus in Live Mode, and no manual controls in Live Mode. However what’s not mentioned in the article is Canon’s astounding huge and noiseless (grainless) sensor with low light capability rivaling some $200,000 digital motion picture cameras.

In the Vincent LaForet demo:

https://www.usa.canon.com/dlc/controller?act=GetArticleAct&articleID=2326

its worth noting that the shallow depth of field is only achieved in very dark scenes–basically “tricking” the auto lens to shoot wide open. But check out the grain/noise . . . or lack of it. Amazing.

I understand (based on conversation with Gary Adcock a few months ago) that the 30 FPS issue will not be easily solved–based on thermodynamic issues. Way over my head–but he was able to explain it simple terms that I could understand.

Does anyone have any more info or news on firmware upgrades or ongoing development of the the Canon 5D Mark II ?

[Zane Barker]

[Paul Blin] “I’m discouraged by its main shortcomings: no control over FPS, no viewfinder in Live Mode, no autofocus in Live Mode, and no manual controls in Live Mode. “

Keep in mind it is a photo camera with video capabilities NOT a video camera.

There are no “technical solutions” to your “artistic problems”.
Don’t let technology get in the way of your creativity!

[Paul Blinn]

Maybe the particular creative endeavor requires a giant sensor, shallow depth of field, low light, high level optics ie Canon L-series lenses, and extreme portability. Try sneaking into a dark restaurant in Tokyo with a Red camera. The 5D is not going away–its a breakthrough.

The world is full of flat, grainy, user generated video images on You Tube. The 5D offers the opportunity to rise above the muck, and drudgery. Its a discussion about potential, not a technocratic limitation.

The camera may be acceptable for film work if the artist is willing to struggle a functionality other than what the camera was designed for. This can often be the formula for something exceptional, as opposed to more of the same old same old.