Panasonic Australia has released a truckload of new consumer camcorders, two of which have 4K video recording and 4K (8-megapixel) photo mode as well as High Dynamic Range movie functionality in Full HD; ‘a world first for Full HD consumer camcorders’.
The 4K-capable camcorders deliver four times the resolution of Full HD in a slim, compact body. HDR Movie Mode combines two images taken with different exposures to create crisper, clearer videos.
In all there are six camcorders in the 2015 range, with pricing from $1349 for the top-of-the-line XZ970 4K model through to $299 for the 38x V160
In addition, a ‘Wireless Twin Camera’ feature allows the user to shoot different angles, capturing two scenes simultaneously by using the camcorder screen and operating their Wi-Fi capable smartphone or tablet as a ‘sub-camera’.
‘Our new camcorders offer affordable 4K shooting, allowing families to capture their world in stunning cinematic quality. HDR recording ensures detail in both light and dark areas is preserved in high-contrast scenes, whether you are capturing blowing out the candles on the birthday cake or a beachside picnic,’ said Doug Campbell, senior product manager, Imaging, Panasonic Australia.
‘For greater creative freedom when capturing memorable moments, the “Twin Camera” lets the film maker put themselves in the scene, show crowd reactions, and capture both close-up and wide angle viewpoints.’
4K models: HC-WX970 and HC-VX870
Panasonic’s new 4K camcorders feature a Leica Dicomar lens, an 8.29-megapixel back-illuminated sensor and the Crystal Engine 4K processor, and 20x optical zoom.
Panasonic says that if 4K footage is exported to Full HD, ‘it will still have better definition and crisper detail than images originally shot in Full HD’. The 4K Photo mode allows single frames to be extracted from 4K video and printed up to A3 size.
As stated, there are six models in the range, each with its own combination of features. For more information, the full press release can be accessed here. (‘Enjoy’!)
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