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Home: Video University Forums: Canon All Camcorders:
Hot Video Level....

wayne2580
New User

Sep 20, 2005, 8:38 PM

Post #1 of 4 (1002 views)
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Hot Video Level....	Can't Post

I am using the Canon XL1s with Sony Excellence tape...The tape is great, but I am noticing that the video level seems 'hot' or overmodulated. If the camera is in full automatic, the skin tones playback 'hot'. If I switch to total manual operation and adjust the exposure down a half stop according to the meter on the camera, the playback is fantastic.

If I adjust the AE in full auto mode down a half stop it seems to work.

Is this an issue of the tape being oversaturated??? and is the solution I am choosing for the full auto mode correct?? Any input or thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

I know Sony says that you get an extra 2db of headroom or S/N on this tape. That's why I am thinking some type of video level adjustment is necessary. I realize it's digital, but am I hitting a 'brick wall'??

Thanks
Wayne2580

RatVega
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Sep 22, 2005, 4:08 AM

Post #2 of 4 (961 views)
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Re: [wayne2580] Hot Video Level.... [In reply to]	Can't Post

More likely it's just the cam. And I doubt there's anything wrong with it...

We shoot GL2s and see similar problems from time to time - it's almost as if Canon is falling for the "bad press" all the PD-170 users put out about how Canons can't shoot low light. Auto mode isn't much of a friend in extreme light or dark.

Adjusting the AE down in auto is one solution, but I've gone to shooting pretty much all manual. I'm routinely in the lower quadrant of the viewfinder exposure meter and still get very nice results. Auto in a dim setting seems to instantly go to +18 db gain, which results in high grain.

Personally, I can't see how the tape could record anything the camera couldn't generate, and if it can generate a really hot signal that should really blow out a lesser tape. On the other hand, I've been wrong before...

Unless you have a lot of time with the XL1s and it only changed when you changed tape, I wouldn't be too worried - I'd just be getting a handle on how much "underexposure" it wanted. Experiment!

Good luck...

______________________________________________________________
Currently on a loaded 2.5GHz G5 dualie/5GB/1TB internal RAID/dual 19" monitors. Final Cut Studio, Adobe Suite, Boris RED. Shooting with Canon.

VU California Crew, Inland Empire Sub-Chapter (paragraph?)

wayne2580
New User

Sep 22, 2005, 9:08 PM

Post #3 of 4 (954 views)
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Re: [RatVega] Hot Video Level.... [In reply to]	Can't Post

Thanks for the info.... I am also shooting manual ....... and I'm keeping it in the lower quad of the meter... It's so sensitive with bright sunlight especially in FL.

Iv'e also had issues with the focus... Been reading some of the other forums and don't really know what to believe.... Had soft images for no apparent reason.... focus drifting....... Is it worth sending back to factory??? Do you know if the XL2 may have solved this issue.... By the way, when I do get a good footage.... it looks great!!! so we know the camera can do it!!! just wish it was consistent....

I checked with Canon yesterday and they are recommending full manual.... I agree.... but 'auto' would be nice for the fast paced action shots in tight places....

Wayne2580

RatVega
Enthusiast

Sep 22, 2005, 9:55 PM

Post #4 of 4 (951 views)
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Re: [wayne2580] Hot Video Level.... [In reply to]	Can't Post

Florida? Sheesh!... There's not much except harsh light down there, is there?

I think I know issues you mention on focus. In my experience, they're primarily associated with low light.

I doubt if sending the cam out will help much, but then I'm not an XL1s expert.

I have used the XL2 and think it's great, but I think it shares a lot of the focus system. Whatever the case, manual settings are the way to go whenever possible.

______________________________________________________________
Currently on a loaded 2.5GHz G5 dualie/5GB/1TB internal RAID/dual 19" monitors. Final Cut Studio, Adobe Suite, Boris RED. Shooting with Canon.

VU California Crew, Inland Empire Sub-Chapter (paragraph?)