What camera would be recommanded for sports?

[Bill Bruner]

Hi Christopher – if you want a large sensor, interchangeable lens camcorder with a power zoom for sports, I recommend the $3425 Sony NEX-EA50 instead of the $2698 VG30 – because of the EA50‘s shoulder mount, pro XLR audio inputs and better in-camera control of contrast and color.

Here is a soccer promo shot with the EA50: https://vimeo.com/63106150

That said, large sensor CMOS cameras are vulnerable to a phenomenon called “skew” or “rolling shutter” when panned quickly or when recording fast action (see example on the moving sawblade at 0:40 in this video). This will not be a problem for shooting football from the stands – but may be a challenge for extremely fast action in close-in sideline shots.

If you plan fast pans or closeups of fast-moving action, and don’t need the depth of field control provided by the large sensor of the NEX cameras, a small sensor CCD based camera, such as the $1995 JVC GY-HM150, may be a better camera for you. CCDs are not susceptible to rolling shutter.

Here is a slow motion rugby short shot with the HM150 (please watch at 1080p): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tn09w4cNIpU

Hope this is helpful,

Bill
Hybrid Camera Revolution

[Christopher Fodde]

Thanks for the comment, here is a football highlight tape I did for a player and all the on-field shots I used the Sony VG10. If you have any tips or more camera recommendations please let me know.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yc249aNTJ7M

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