@@iancraig Yes horror, but I survived, I was lucky that day, but I just bought a Sony CX405 on Amazon and think about making an unboxing video . Gotta find a way to use it as action cam and think about holding it in my mouth, hope the 405 fits. Did you ever use a camcorder as action cam ?
Yes, but it won't fit easily in my mouth. I prefer a little camcorder for vlogging to the GoPro actually, because you can see what you're doing on the bigger screen more easily and the camcorders have apertures that can change. The GoPro is fixed so you have to be faffing with ND filters if you want to fix the shutter speed correctly. With camcorders, the aperture corrects exposure for you; and on these, even at 1/50th second shutter
They do a great Job Andre. I love rhe speed that I can be running them, which makes them ideal for fast grab shots. I’ve used that so many times when something randomnly happens. These ones are fantastic starter cameras since they do so well in ‘auto’, plus room for development when you want to begin playing with settings, where they still hold on to exposure for you, while you adjust what you want. Great for kids learning aperture/shutter control.
I had an email from a watcher who told me he wouldn’t want to be seen outside with a camcorder. Looks like image is more important than the video .....
@@iancraig very true, not many people use camcorders now ,maybe they will make a comeback. Have several cams old and new, Still use my Panasonic hdc-sd900 that are now becoming rare to find nowadays, its a great cam that produces very clean balanced colours and better skin tones unlike the modern action cams like dji and gopro that always tend to be too sharp and unbalanced colours although still use them myself. All depends what your trying to achieve and personal preferences but i prefer to use a camcorder
I love the ease of use with camcorders. With my ax53, I’m literally shooting in seconds withgood expose and white balance. With my M50 or ZV1, I’m very concious of having to set them up. The GoPro is always stressful because it might crash, freeze, whatever! The DJI Pockets have tiny screens so I have to make sure they’re preset before I go out with my glasses on. The Action, I use mostly in auto with a little preset at home. But even the cx405 is off in seconds.
Thank you, Ian, for giving me a basic understanding of how to set up my cx405 . This is my first video camera and all of the other demonstrations I have viewed assume I already know how to operate the camera. Now I need to find one that explains how to playback the recording I made.
Hi Phil. Do you mean playback on the camera? On the screen there's a playback button. Bottom left. Use the scroll button to get down there and push it in. Then scroll to the date of the videos you see there and then the individual videos will pop up and you can see them on the camera.
I just bought my second hand cx240 TODAY, and I only want to try it outdoors asap jahaj also to record bts with the digital texture this camcorders have. So happy rn even in 2024
your video is so thorough and simple and direct i've looked at some of the other videos and confusing or they just don't give the right information you give the right information
I’m not certain. Something is switched on that stops it. Try changing resolution to 1080 not 4k if that is an option. I’m not at home so I can’t check my camcorders to see, but I’m sure that it’s one of the settings. It can be a few things …… check this ….. www.sony.co.uk/electronics/support/articles/00072736
And finally after doing a bunch of stuff I went back to the shooting mode and I noticed before if I set it on photos it stayed on photos and I could do both but now it seems like anytime I need to do a photo I have to go into the shooting mode and choose photos and then I can take the picture so I don't know what happened maybe my camcorder isn't working right@@iancraig
Thanks for this Ian. I have the cx405 camera and up until recently I was filming with the default settings. I followed your video and noticed that the quality was much clearer which I loved however when I went to the beach the camera made the blue skies look white whereas this didn’t happen when I was using the default settings. I really want to keep the quality from following your video but finding it difficult with this brightness issue. I have tried adjusting the exposure, etc but wished there was a way around this as sometimes I don’t have the time to adjust settings every time I’m out and about with friends. This issue only occurs when I’m outside, otherwise the quality is amazing indoors and I wish it could stay like this while outside so I don’t have to keep changing the settings if possible. Would really appreciate a video just about the cx405 and all the settings for it for a beginner like me. Thanks Ian
I’ll take a look. It sounds as though the dynamic range of the camera can’t capture both sky and scenery. Not so bright in UK. Can you under expose any more?
I will try. I currently live in the uk as well, Scotland, but the footage still turns out a bit hazy when I’m outside. It’s a shame because the quality is brilliant when I adjusted the settings as you did but only when I’m inside. I also tried changing the white balance but this didn’t work.
The only thing that I can think of that will change the exposure is the shutter. Generally, I have a manual shutter, but if that isn’t working on the beach, then set it to auto. Maybe your beaches look brighter than ours? You could set ev to -1. Other than that, all I can think of is that the contrast range between sky and land is too great. Since you have a cx405, you can’t fit a filter, but a polariser could help with the sky.
I will give these tips a try, much thanks Ian. I’m considering buying the Sony ax43 next year, do you think it would be better in dealing with this exposure/brightness issue in comparison to the cx405? I have been watching videos and the quality of the ax43 does look very good but I’m just not sure if it would be worth it since it is quite pricey for me. I would really appreciate your opinion.
I don’t know whether the exposure thing would be fix because I’m not exactly sure what is going on if I’m honest. I use the ax53 a lot and it’s excellent.
Hopefully, the settings will help. With cheap cameras like this though, remember that there will most likely be compromises with the lens. For a slightly sharper appearance, try adding just a touch more contrast and add a little sharpening in post if your software has it. Be careful with sharpening though because pictures might flicker with zooming or movement. Too much sharpening makes it worse.
Nice one Hugh. I really love the ease of use with camcorders. Plus of course, massive battery life and the ability to shoot for long stretches and that zoom. Next, you’ll be into tripods with the zoom!
I think it’s in the menu system. ‘Smile sensitivity’. I’m not sure if it can be fully turned off, but the sensitivity can be changed so it might be there. BTW, I’m a retired oboist. I see you’re a flautist!
Hi Ian, I learn a lot from your vids, thnx. But I have still 1 question : what is the best way to keep the focus while zooming in and out? Best Regards, Jerry. 👍😁
Hi Jerry. You might not like this but it is better to not zoom in and out while videoing. You could try closing the aperture down so at least it stays at as closed as it can be while it zooms in. I don’t even think manually focusing works at different focal lengths either.
They’re handy little cameras. The only thing that I would like is the ability to use 24, 30 and 60fps in UK. Here, they’re sold as 25 and 50fps cameras only. In USA they sell as 30 and 60. I managed to find a hack for my ax53 so I can use either, but there doesn’t seem to be one for the CX range.
@@iancraig I'm not a professional filmmaker: i want only open cam and record. I ride in moto and I use a gopro6 and another cheap action cam during the journey. I bought a DJI pocket (fantastic) just to complicate my photographic live II have a little problem: the old age is coming up and i don't see clearly the display of these three device and overall I don't want to be going crazy in the menu ;). Thank you again for your explanations
Greetings from Liverpool. I would like to say thank you. Your content is just the ticket for me, I have recently invested in my first Handycam from Sony. I'm going to use it yet as it is a gift for my birthday in November. I'm pleased to of found your channel. Best wishes, Lee. 😊
I was videoing a vlog up in Liverpool not so long ago Lee. The Cathedral, Albert Docks, and a Curiosity Museum, not to mention the Cavern. Lovely place.
Great video…makes everything easy to understand. If I have a CX440 and shooting mostly clouds and storm formations from an outdoor tripod, how would you do the settings? I have noticed sometimes the clouds get blown out so I did the one-touch white balance as you suggested. As for the rest, I have no clue.
Thank you Calabamian. The clouds are like to be blown out if you include land or trees in the shot. The reason being that the camera ‘sees’ a dark area and so boosts the exposure. There are two things you could try. A) lower the exposure compensation by a stop or so. Personally, if I wanted cloud detail, I would expose purely for the sky. B) a more technical way is to use a semi nd filter or what is called a graduated nd filter. Top half is nd, bottom half is clear. If there is no thread on the lens, then you could hold it in place which is also nice because you can adjust up and down for where you want the nd effect to start. This method gives correctly exposed land as well as sky! Basically, the clouds get blown out due to the dynamic range being too wide for the sensor.
Thank you Ian for this concise guide to all the important settings. I just bought a used CX405 and I was wondering if there is a way to see or set the effective ISO setting on this camera, or some kind of workaround I can do to trick the camera into using a lower ISO setting. It has settings for white balance, exposure, focus, iris, shutter but not ISO. I'm shooting how-to video. The camera is steady on a tripod, and I have several lights on the subject. The video is looking good, but I'd like to get as clean an image as possible. Thanks!
There is no ISO control on the CX camcorders. It’s not until you get to the ax series that there is a minimal control where you can limit the ‘gain’. I found this a nuisance as well because you have to set the lights as bright as you can in order to get a low ISO. Also set the shutter so it forces it down.
@@iancraig Thank you - the tip on setting the shutter to indirectly force down the ISO is what I was looking for. And I'll throw as much light as I can at the subject.
That’s what I use mine for. It’s hard to not get a reasonable picture with it in all honesty and if you want to in post, footage can be improved with some sharpening and tweaking. I often pick mine up on the way out and drop it in my pocket ready to use!
Hi nice review. I have de cx405. I want to record secuencial images for skateboarding but i dont know how to do it with the sony cx405 it supposed to have slow motion shots. Could you do a vido ezplaning how to do it or just leave a commemt ?
I love the ax series. I often use the ax53. I have a programme on my computer that switches it from PAL to NTSC and back again which is really useful too.
@@iancraig I have a Handycam too, HDR PJ590V (same as PJ580 or 600). Nowadays, so many people use Mirrorless or smartphone instead of Handycam. I was a little confused which one to buy, but I bought a Handycam. Now I search for tips, but they have 1000 tips for camera, action cam, etc. but no tip for Handycam until I see your video. Thank you very much (sorry about my bad English)
@@lehuunghia12cs60 The same kinds of things applies to handycam and other cameras really. Get the shutter down and play around with apertures for depth of field and before you know it, you start to get really nice looking videos. Just a little care. The funny thing with video is that over the years, I’ve kind of learned to try and keep the camera as steady as I can at all times. Move around when necessary, but other than that keep still. Just doing that improves viewer experience massively since the screen isn’t flicking around all over the place when they are watching. So many people with action cams throw them around all over the place thinking that they’re getting some kind of exciting footage……. But really, it’s not that exciting. No storyline. Nothing particular to focus on. Just a shaky, blurry mess of action! The more I see of incessant motorbike rides or cycle rides down a path, the wider I start to yawn in all honesty. Do they really watch videos of going down a path fast all the time? So never mind the camera. Get some really nice footage that gives information out or tells a story or even better … both. Much more entertaining and no one worries what camera or settings you used then!!
Hi, This is a great video. I just purchased a Sony FDR AX43 . What would be the recommended settings if I have to capture stars and milky way in full dark sky location.
Thank you Aravazhi. The AX43 is a nice camcorder, but capturing stars is an extreme low light situation. This means that camera will automatically go into a high iso setting, which isn’t ideal. Using just the camera, I would turn digital zoom off and use 4k. If you want a higher frame rate, the it has to be 1080p but that will half the light. It might be an idea to try a 360 degree shutter…. Set to 25fps and fix the shutter at 1/25th. Or even, try slower if the camera doesn’t move! It has to be on a tripod. I wouldn’t switch on the low light boost setting if the camera has one. That is just going to raise iso. If the image looks dark, I wouldn’t worry because the relative whiteness of the stars/planets will be a lot brighter, relatively speaking. I have a feeling that the camera will try to raise the black sky to grey, so you could try getting a white piece of paper, shine a light onto it and put it in picture, just into one corner. Move it further in and out and watch the screen. As you get more white showing, the screen will darken (which might well improve the picture quality) and in post, cut slightly into the picture to remove the white corner. If you video in 4k, you can then render into 1080p in order to make things a little better looking perhaps at the end. The biggest problem is that the camera will try to raise black to grey, or white down to grey. So having a black sky will mean that the camera will try to over expose. That’s where the white paper truck fools the camera to make the image darker. Another useful thing will be to turn the exposure compensation right down. This might lessen the ‘grey’ effect. I don’t know whether there is a telescope attachment available but that would help. If you have a telescope, try putting the lens up against the eyepiece …. In post, darken the image. Let the black sky drop into the pits and watch the stars. Get them to a good brightness if you can. Getting the black sky totally ‘blacked out’ will hide image noise. These camcorders aren’t designed for such extreme photography, but the things I mention might help. Cheers Ian
Thanks Ian, a very helpful video. I bought the CX405 a couple of years back for a trip to Cambodia (back when Australians were still allowed to travel). Ah the memories. Anyway I picked it up because the price was right and because it took the same battery as the little Sony compact I was taking. I was a bit doubtful about it since my last experience with a camcorder was a standard definition model (make and model forgotten) and frankly the video quality on that camera was so bad it put me off camcorders full stop. But using the little CX405 on my trip I found things had changed a lot and thought if this is what a reasonably recent base model camcorder could do I was interested again. It was brilliant. And I have to admit I am attracted to the idea of using kit that most people these days find unfashionable. I think I am safe in saying that. Anyway, thanks again for making these videos. I look forward to the future editions. Cheers.
Thanks John. I don’t care about fashion at all! If the camera does the job, then that’s great. I love the portability and lightness of this camera. Internal mics are OK and it has an insane zoom. So if you want to go out lightweight, this is very nice. I would love to get to Australia. So far away though. I think the people are less mistrusting than Brits and a little more warm hearted.
I’ve never used a phone to make a video, but I’ve heard (and seen) that the IPhone works well. I’m guessing it would be 30fps on a phone as opposed to 50 or 60 on the cx450. (Depending where you are … pal or ntsc. Perhaps IPhones also do 60fps? There might be more chance for bokeh on the cx450. (Although it’s not brilliant for bokeh) For exposure, again, I’m guessing that a phone adjusts shutter and not aperture. For sound, I think the cx450 might be easier. And stabilisation. Better zoom too. Because I’ve never used a phone, I don’t really know the answer to that. My own personal preference would be the ease of use on the cx450 but my guess is that a phone could easily match or bypass in picture quality with some limitations on bokeh, zoom and stabilisation.
Thank you. Unfortunately, Sony lock it to 50 or 60 hz, depending on which country you bought it in. Daft really. I have an AX53 and that was locked into 50 Hz but I managed to find a programme that allows me to switch it between 50 and 60. The PAL/NTSC is a relic now that should be left to history!
@@iancraig Thank you for you kind response! So buying a NTSC model would give me 24/60 instead of 25/50? If so, an adapter would be needed I guess for charging since the voltage is different. Would 50i give any problems later with programs since it is a outdated format?
Thanks Len. I had a battle with exactly how much to show. I’m wondering about breaking it down into segments and making a mini series on them since there does seem to be interest in camcorders.
@@iancraig Ian, thanks, a mini series would be great, i would watch for sure, and many folkes like me who are seriously looking into YT video production, with zero experience, with camcorders, and video editing, on a computer.....
Weird you can't plug a mic into the 405 because I can on my CX380 as long as I'm on battery power (because it uses the same port as the plug in power.)
The cx405 uses a usb connection vía a built in wire with a female plug. So unfortunately, no mic input. We can’t get the cx380 in the UK. I have no idea why!
Thank you so much for this! I love my Sony handycam but I’m really struggling with filming in low light such as candlelight indoors. Could you please make a video on how to adjust settings for that? Thanks so much!
Candlelight indoors for such a small sensor is asking a lot. You are bound to be in the realms of very high noise levels. I would suggest a 100 degree shutter so that the frame rate is the same as the shutter. That means if you are using 50fps then set the shutter to 1/50th. Alternative, fix the aperture as wide as it goes. I suspect both ways will work out the same. Try underexposing so that the details that you want to see are there but other stuff is just blacked out. Or use a small light to boost levels It really is asking a lot of a cheap camcorder with such a tiny sensor to work in low light. I'll take a look at mine.
Hi again. I had a go because it’s dark here now and lit a candle. I played around with settings, but unfortunately, I can’t see any way of working with just candlelight. The problem is that the camera has only auto ISO and can’t be fixed, so there is no way of avoiding noise. I tried setting the shutter even lower than the frame rate. Still very noisy. So the only way to do this is to use miniature lights on the subject and either put an orange type gel over the light or set the white balance to daylight and let the candle ‘colour’ the picture. If you want the candle to do this, then you need quite a low level light, just to try and lower the iso in the camera. Another way is to use a light that has special effects on it. I have a light that emulates candlelight and even flickers but unfortuately, I don’t think that the camcorders can work down there at such low levels of light. I think I would use an orange type of light just to make the scene ‘look’ candle lit. I can do it on my Canon camera, but that has an extremely fast lens that can work in low light, but not the Sony. I’m afraid that it needs lighting.
@@iancraig thanks so much for trying it out. I appreciate the effort. I suppose I’ll need to take a different approach to get a candlelit effect. Perhaps I can make adjustments in post.
Yes, post work would be needed. The camera will also try to overexpose in dark conditions, so believe it or not, you may have to take it down. In post, you could try darkening the shadows only to ‘hide’ noise. If your editing package does this, it would increase the contrast so light bits stay light, but dark grey bits are blacked out. I’ll see what I can find out, but really, the camera hasn’t got a fast enough lens or a sensor that’s big enough to do that.
I’ve found an answer, but not great for anywhere public! I used a very small light. (I used a Litra) Set it on its lowest setting and pointed it at the ceiling. While focused on the candle light and surrounding bits, I moved th light around until the Litra light and the candlelight balanced with each other. The camera lowered its ISO a bit (I think) but the picture was way more acceptable. So the answer is a very low level light.
I have a hdr-cx190 and I’m going to be using this camcorder to record a lecture I will be giving. I’m curious what microphone level do you recommend, and white noise setting, and the built in zoom mic setting. I will be about 20 feet from the camera. Also do you keep you low lux on or off? Thank you
If you can get away with it, keep the low lux off. You may have to put it on though. It’s a video amplifier so can introduce noise but without it, the picture may be too dark. For mic gain, speak in situ and set it so the the bars peak close to the top. If your camera is like mine, they have a limiter to stop them over modulating, so just get the bars waving around, close (ish) to the top. At 20 feet away, I would use a Lavalier ideally if the camera has an input. Either a wireless or an extension lead to the camera.
How can I lock Fader for the Sony CX550? I set it to white fader, but it will not lock it in. If I turn the camcorder off, then I have to reset the fader again. Thanks for the lessons.
I have a hdr-cx405 to film my daughters soccer matches. I film both night and day games. Can you suggest the best settings? I shoot numerous short clips every match zooming in and following action so lots of movement. I recently purchased a telegraphing pole for stability
I would use 50 or 60 fps on ‘auto’ because you’re probably moving the camera fast, and all over the place while tracking the ball. For night shooting with floods, you might need to change the white balance away from auto but if it stays consistent over the whole pitch, I’d leave it on auto. There’s not really that much you can alter on a cx405.
Thanks for clearing up the 'camcorder' terms that I am not used to! I'm using a Sony VG-20 as a small/budget cinema camera and am very happy with it so far. I traded in an Olympus OMD em-Mkii for (which I did really like!) and have not looked back. It has been a little bit of a struggle changing terms (Iris, etc.) and losing a little bit of control because of the auto settings. But, the fact that it runs for hours and can interchange lenses is awesome. The Sony18-200 does pretty much everything but I also hang it on the back of a Sony 200-600 lens for wildlife. That makes it extremely versatile. Augmented with a GoPro set on Linear for walk and talk, I've got everything I need. It would be great to have 120fps or more, but that can wait for now.
I like the Sony camcorders because they are so quick to set up. You just don't realise until you start using something else like the ZV1 or Canon M50. Where there are so many settings that can backfire on you. Not with camcorders. For instance, I went out with a Sony ZV1 and hadn't realised that I had accidentally shifted the ISO from auto to 6400, I think it was. The noise levels were awful. Reason being that auto is right next to the highest setting and I hadn't seen it on the small display! In that respect, camcorders just do the job well without all the fuss!
Thank you Trainman. Going through difficult time with my health at the moment, so taking it easy with videos at the moment. So you won’t get ‘bombed’ with notifications!!
Thank you Ian for this wonderful explanation. You really helped us a lot. I have FDR AX43. One of my concerns is that if I record on XAVC S HD, I could not send the files to my phone via wifi. How can I retrieve the files? Should I use an SD card reader instead?
I don’t usually use filters, but when I do, it’s normally a polariser for better colour saturation in sunny conditions or a variable ND filter to keep the shutter speed down
Hello! a question if possible, which of the Sony CX series cameras films better at night, in low light? I like the AX53 but it is a bit big for what I need..
In low light, I think they're all on a level with each other. Thing is that they do have tiny sensors so for good low light footage, something with a wide lens and larger sensor would be better. With the cx range, you'd be hard pushed to see any difference.
What do you think about the next level up, the FDR AX700? Looking to video music concerts, some indoor, some outdoor. Many times the stage is dark but the lights are bright. I'm open for ideas. :)
I’ve never tried the ax700 Gary. However, just looking at it, I think it would probably do a pretty good job. Although it goes to 4K, still no 50 or 60 fps which surprises me at that price level. I’m also not sure if it’s locked into PAL or NTCS, with no easy way to switch. I use the AX53 which is a UK version, locked into PAL but I am able to switch to NTSC via a software hack on my computer. I have a feeling that the ax700 might be the same.
That’s really nice to know Peter. I often think I’m talking to myself on UA-cam and use it more as an experiment for myself of some sort in readiness for more important videos that I make.
@@iancraig Replying to correct myself and add some clarifications! I bought a CX450 from Argos in April 2022 - they are still available (just) but stock levels are low and patchy. Argos seem to get a couple in here and there every few weeks, so it's worth keeping your eye open and be willing to travel. I use it for filming kids sports (cricket, hockey, netball) and it's great for that use. The stabilisation is very good even on high zoom. I've fitted a cheap neutral filter to the front to keep dust and rain away from the lens and the lens cover. The ability to keep shooting with the viewfinder door shut is very useful - it helps a lot with battery life. When filming cricket I set it up on a cheap tripod, close the door and come back 2.5hrs later and it's still filming. A longer run time battery is also available from Sony and from 3rd parties, but I haven't needed it yet.
Forgot to add: you can run the camera off a power bank (it doesn't charge the battery, but acts as a power input to the camera) which means that if you want to record a full day of cricket you are only limited by your memory card size.
Sabroooosooooo! Nice video, very useful. I own two CX240's that I use for streaming, both look great but your video help me improve the quality of the videos for editing. Thanks!
Editing can really take your mind off the video! Sometimes, I think I can analyse the video quality too much and it becomes an obsession when editing. So much that it can be very difficult to make colour/contrast decisions!!
With that white balance adjustment, do have to do that every time I'm in a different setting/shoot? Do I hold the white card within an inch of the lens or so?
I don’t do a white balance for every shot tbh. I might do one and stay with it until I see something drastically changes on the screen. If you keep taking white balances, you’d probably miss shots. Very often, when I’m outside, I just set the camera to ‘sunny’. If really variable, ‘auto’ does a pretty good job on Sonys. I then correct it in post if it looks ‘off’. By not using ‘auto’ and fixing white balance, it can stop the camera changing the white balance while you’re actually shooting! The white card just needs to cover the majority of the frame and make sure the light source is reflected from it.
Hello, sorry for my English, it is not my native language. I am really interested in the HDR-CX450 because of the possibility of the external microphone, however I am also interested in using the internal microphone mainly, but I saw a video where they said that the sound quality of the internal microphone was horrible. I have not been able to find another reference on the internet that evaluated the quality of the internal microphone of the HDR-CX450, but I did find that of the HDR-CX405. Do you consider that there are differences in audio quality between these two models with respect to the internal microphone?
Thanks for the knowledge ! i have cx405 camcorder. when i open the recorded video on my computer there is date & time stamp on recorded video. how to get rid of that stamps. kindly request ! cheers !
Thank you so much!! By any chance could you recommend particular settings for shooting a dance video indoors at night (with moderate/medium amount of lighting)? I've had terrible time of it trying to get the video to focus and produce an actual HD image, even on HD settings. I'll try turning the stabilization off and go back through your video and try to guess at how to adjust my settings, but I just wondered if you had any quick pointers to save me more agony? Been trying to get good footage for days and spent countless hours editing to try to compensate to no avail. It seems like the only HD focus is on my very still shots, but I need this camera primarily for filming dancing.
Hi. In moderate lighting, it should be ok for focusing. If you are hand holding, you’ll need stabilisation switched on. The only reason I can think of as to why it doesn’t focus well is that you may be zooming in too close perhaps? If you zoom right in, the aperture will close up a bit making the video become darker, so it will automatically raise the iso which can affect clarity if the iso is too high. For starters, set everything to auto and see what the camera gets. If you are getting a good image, then maybe set up a custom white balance and try not to zoom. Better on a tripod as well since your subject is moving about a lot.
Hi Craig Enjoyed you video. i have just one question how can i adjust my frame rate to 60 p,I have a sony fdr-ax53 and i tried everywhere to look how to chane tis frame rate .
It might be in the setup when you first turn the camera on after you bought it. You can’t just switch between them once it’s set up. So you could try a camera reset and set it for 60Hz rather than 50.
I use the highest settings all of the time, David. In the UK, 50FPS. It helps to get smoother movement which you will want in order to capture a fast moving ball. Many videographers use 30FPS in US or 25 in UK in order to get a ‘film’ look. It’s also a little easier on your computer for editing, but I actually don’t enjoy watching pans ‘judder’ and prefer a smoother look tbh. Sports are very often filmed at a high frame rate in order to get smoother movement.
Filming a show with a camcorder is quite an ask, depending on lighting. If the show is brightly lit, the camcorder will be fine, but in low light they might struggle. If you are using 50 or 60 frames per second, consider using a 360 degree shutter. That means, use the same shutter speed as the frames per second in order to get as much light in as possible. 360 shutter is what I use most of the time! So at 60 fps, use 1/60th shutter. At 30fps, use 1/30th. 30fps will let more light in. Don’t go any lower than the frames per second. I would suggest auto white balance, unless you can see something white that’s lit on stage. Then take a white balance from that object. Zoom into it and use custom white blalance. Try daylight as well. Fixed white balance is better than auto in case they use coloured gels. For sound, stereo would be nice. A stereo mic. If you aren’t filming the overture, then take a level from the band when they start up and go slightly lower in case of explosions. I did some outdoor shows in Florida on a Sony camcorder and they were brilliant. Lots of light means good picture. For serious stuff, I use a mirrorless camera with a lens that opens up to F1.4 so let’s a lot of light in. Camcorders won’t give you this.
Hi Ian, your videos have been great on deciding what camcorder to get so thank you! Ive decided to get the 405, but wanted to know is there a setting to shoot in 4:3? Or does it have to be done in post. I saw at 3:42 there is an image size option.
Hi. The image size is for photos only. For video you can only use 16 x 9. I think that people really need to know that this is a low-end camcorder and so won’t offer the kinds of things you might see on big cameras, etc. It’s made for 16 x 9 videos in HD only. The photo option is there but isn’t really one I use.
@@iancraig thanks for your quick reply, appreciate it. Do you have a recommendation for a budget camcorder suitable for shooting 4:3? Looking to get something but price is an issue
I don’t know of any camcorders that shoot 4:3. The only thing I can think of is to cut the edges in post. Projects would need to be set up in 4:3 when you import footage and cut the footage so that it fits!
@@iancraig sorry one last question: if I set the photo mode to 4:3, does it show the limits on the screen? Thinking of taking tape or pen and marking the limits, so can keep the subject in the frame when filming 16:9. Then editing down to 4:3 afterwards
What I do is turn the screen around and close it so that the screen faces outwards, not inwards. Then it works. If the screen faces inwards, the camera turns off.
Hi Ian I am considering the CX405 as part of broll in an outdoor theatrical events. Using two covering stage right and left. Actors will be moving toward and away from the camera. How does it do holding focus? Can you shut off the auto focus? Thanks. Andrew
There is a manual focus, but I would be careful using that if actors move around. Even though this is a cheap camera, it does quite well in lower lighting conditions (like a stage) but the aperture will open up giving a shallower depth of field. So manual focus might be dodgy. I have used it in concerts and shows, and the auto focus is actually pretty good. Also because it uses a small sensor, depth of field isn't as big an issue as it is with larger cameras. Funnily enough, bigger cameras have more to go wrong in a theatre environment than these cameras in auto! I've had some pretty good results. I have found setting exposure half a stop or do down stops the darker scenes being too grey looking and it helps to avoid blowouts on highlighted areas from spots. It's very easy to over expose theatre stuff due to often stark lighting effects.
Do any of these allow you to pause ⏸️ recording? I video my kids pitching and would rather pause between pitches and time outs as I do with a cell phone currently.
Hi Ian. Many thanks for your videos. We have a HDR-CX405, which up until now has been left fully auto for simple holiday vides. However........ next year we are on a cruise in November up to Tromso, hoping to see the Northern Lights. Will happily take a tripod for stability, but what, if anything, can we do with the setting on the Sony to try & record any Aurora sights?
That will be difficult to capture because it's very low lighting. Try with stars and moon first before going. I would try being off manual because auto exposure will try to over expose a black sky. Auto will always try to get a mid grey, but with auto you'll get a proper black by underexposing in comparison to auto.
@@iancraig Thanks Ian. Recognise that this is a very simple camera with regards to option, but you have given us some starting points for experimentation.
Thank you. It also uses auto white balance I think. The picture settings don’t seem to lock the colour balance which is a problem if there are coloured gels used on stage!
Low frame rate. 25fps. In post, give the video a slight brownish yellow cast and add film grain and even occasional scratches. There’s normally an effect in the editing programme.
Hi. That sounds like a faulty camera. If the grain is large enough to see on the screen, I think something is wrong. If it’s new, I think I’d try to get it changed.
@@iancraig not really large enough it’s just not as clear as most screens nowadays. could it be due to cx405 being an old model? thanks for replying by the way
Hi, great videos on the Sony camcorders. I’ve just bought a cx625 and need some type of adaptor to connect my rode mic to the top cold shoe. Any suggestions?.. thanks
I use this one, but check that the mic doesn’t fit diirectly. It’s a standard size coldshoe but difficult to manouvre the mic in there. If it is too difficult with your mic then .... www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00O1PZ9HE/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I have an AX53, but just bought a CX-405 for an extra viewing angle. I feel a little disappointed at the picture noise though, and wanted to ask if it's because it's a small cheap camera. I expected Full HD Sony camcorders to be top-notch in 2024, even the small ones. I admit the lens is a lot smaller than the AX53, so the extra noise from CX-405 is normal, is it? I couldn't afford to be greedy and get TWO AX53s!
The cx405 isn’t up to the standard of the ax53 and is just noisier I’m afraid. It’s cheap, so expecting a £200 camcorder to match one costing three times the price is a big ask. The only answer is pile in a load of light!
@@iancraig Thanks for that. I was shocked at how small and light it was, and also like the USB powering as it will be sitting on top of my computer - no need for another bulky AC mains transformer. Just seeing you hold the AX53 after the CX-405 really shows the size difference. The CX-405 is truly a pocket camera. Only had it one day, so hope to warm to it despite the picture noise. My camera before the AX53, was the XR500V, which again was a mid-range. The only other niggle I have is not being able to switch it off easily with the HDMI plugged in. The power-save 1 minute auto-off is also disabled when the HDMI is plugged in for some reason.
I would be interested to know what settings are recommended when filming rock bands? I’ve just bought the cx625, but previously when filming with a Canon SX60HS on auto, I had all sorts of focus / blur issues due to the light show - plus colour washouts for the brightest shots. Sounds like with the Sony I can pick auto aperture? Is this the best option?
You can either use aperture priority or shutter priority. If you use aperture, then the shutter adjusts and if you use shutter the aperture adjusts. Fix the white balance and don't use auto. Coloured lights will throw the white balance all over the place. Try setting exposure (if you can on the 625) half to one stop low, or if you have to, set everything except white balance to auto and under expose a little. Theatre shots are hard to deal with because you get sudden extremes and really, a fully manual camera would probably work better. However, I have managed some good theatre shots on yhe cx camcorders, but the quality really comes down to quality of lighting in the theatre in all honesty.
Ian, have you heard about or used any mini 3-axis gimbals that fit the Sony 405? I like the 405 because the stabilization is far more natural looking for vlogging - compared to the action cameras' digital stabilizing. However, it would be great to find a low-priced mini-gimbal to improve that stabilization and keep it consistent. I see great low-priced mini gimbals for go-pros, but the 405's shape won't fit on them. Meanwhile, regular camcorder gimbals are crazy expensive, and they're size is overkill for the Sony's featherweight 210 grams.
Hi Dave. I have only used one which I don’t think will fit to me honest. I just have a ton of lightweight tripods that I lug around. This is the one I have, but as you say, it works with DSLRs. ua-cam.com/video/8nDf9_g1cTQ/v-deo.html or a manual one …. ua-cam.com/video/AtZAQbeSqTI/v-deo.html
@@iancraig Ian thanks, I wish to use the Sony 405 just like you show in the linked DSLR video. ButI think the back of the camcorder will snag the gimbal.
Superb video, especially for somebody like myself who has only been filming with my Samsung Galaxy S7 phone. I have been thinking about getting a Sony HandyCam, but now I am definately gonna get one. Probably go for the CX 450. You have explained the features so well that I probably won't need the manual. It should really help with my amatuer channel. You get a like and I have sub'd you Ian. Great channel. 👍
Thank you. While they're not the ultimate in sharpness, they have a very healthy zoom. I often sharpen or actually, what is called ... Unsharpen mask'. Then the picture really crisps up. The option for audio input would be useful so you can capture ambience at the time in stereo. I'd suggest a stereo mic. Then you could add voiceover later. The Sony camcorders are great because of their simplicity tbh.
Hi Ian, you were kind enought to help me choose a camcorder and we did indeed do what you suggested and got a Sony FDR AX-53. We love it and the quality is fab. I seem to have mislaid the leads I got with the camera. They may turn up, but it leaves me with a question... When I want to download the videos onto my PC would I use the micro USB or Micro HDMI socket? I'm hoping it's the former, because finding a micro HDMI to USB is a nightmare, wheareas a micro USB to USB is a doddle. I tried this latter and could not get a picture on the PC screen, but maybe I have to donlaod some Sony software or use a certain setting? (I know I could also get a HDMI to USB converter but that seems a lot of messing with software etc and I'm not sure I need that). We are also considering a mic. I reckon the Rode VideoMicro looks about the best for us as we will not want a largeish mic to carry or to stick on the top of the camcorder. This seems to give agopod bang for buck and size. Thoughts?
Hi David. Well done ..... you bit the bullet and paid for the better camera. With regards to leads, it’s a micro usb to the computer usb. Personally, I take the card out and use a usb 3 card transfer plug. It’s a normal usb 3 plug with an inbuilt slot for the card. That’s a lot quicker and moving the card keeps the pins clean on the camera. (At least that’s what I tell myself.) I then delete the clips from the card in one go rather than re format on the camera. Again, it’s quicker. (Especially at 4k) As far as a mic goes, you might need a hot shoe extender to fit onto the camera first before attaching the mic. The extender just fits onto the Sony and lifts the mic for easy access. I use a Deity d4 mini which is better value (imo) on the Sony or the Sennheiser mke400 which is a much more expensive option. The D4 also has an input for a lavalier so you pick up people in front of you well, but also your own voice beautifully. For home videos where I’m not moving around, I use much posher mics with a recorder. Another nice mic is the Deity D3 and D3 pro. Works well with the Sony. I’d get the best mic you can because the soundtrack is there with the picture forever and bad pickup can ruin films.
@@iancraig We are using the mic now and it's great. If we were to get a lavalier, would you recommend the Deity V.Lav Pre-Polarized Lavalier Lapel Microphone? Although that seems to have a 5m lead. I'm not sure if there is a reasonably priced one (uner £100) that is remote and works together with the D4 mini. Many thanks for your thoughts so far and I have subscribed to the channel.
Thanks for subscribing Dave. I mostly deal with mics though. I only made the camcorder videos to answer people that know I use the Sony’s quite often! With regards to a lavalier, I use a Little Clippy which is an unusual one but very low noise and sounds great. It’s a bit larger than most lavaliers but that’s possibly where its excellent sound comes from. Noise levels are way down at -80dB which is excellent for a lav. On top of that, it’s cheap. If you are UK based, dead easy to get, but if you are USA then you would have to wait for it to artive from UK. They are sold and made by Micbooster.com Other than that, I use Rode lavs, but I have found noise levels significantly higher than my Little Clippy. The D4 mini is a bargain. The Little Clippy works well with it. In fact, I used that combo today for a mini vlog type thing with my wife, (on an Osmo Action) which I will probably be posting soon.
@@iancraig great thanks. I've had a look. Is it called "Little Clippy" as I could not find one called that? Is it a wired one? I don't mind one of those, but my wife says a wireless one would be better.
Thank you for making these videos! You give us a lot of useful info. I'm personally debating between getting a CX405 (just to get the job done) or shelling out more for an
Thanks Syn. Now I’m wondering what you’re thinking about shelling out on. You have to remember that the cx405 is a real budget option but you can get a good result from it. Many people think a camera will make good videos, but it’s not just that. It’s knowing how to get the best from them and forming a well shaped video. With the cx405, another thing that makes the video zing is a separate audio recorder to get good sound. It’s a good practise to get into actually for most video cameras. I have another cx video coming soon.
@@iancraig For some reason I lost half my comment haha. Thanks for such a detailed response despite that! UA-cam is acting really weird for me. I meant to say or I could buy an AX53, which has a much higher upfront cost but I can see myself using it for a longer time than I would the CX405.
Since you have experience with both, my main question is: if I shoot at 1080p on the CX405 and the AX53 at the exact same settings, is there a noticeable difference in the picture quality?
Thank you Syn. The AX53 is quite substantially better. It is a much bigger camera but the lens is sharper and there is quite a bit more control over exposure. I have 4 cx/ax cameras.... Cx405 for carting around in my pocket. Cx450 for carting around with a lavalier for better sound. Cx625 for portable stuff with shotgun mics Ax53 for best quality and still retaining some portability. Not to mention a Pocket, Pocket 2, Action, two GoPros and a Canon M50 with 4 lenses!
I kind of wish they would make retro style camcorders that look the old VHS video cameras, except without the tape. But comes with the manual zooms and focus rings on the lenses.
You do have a point, Mark. The manual zoom allows you to control the speed of it while filming and loses mechanical noise. You can do this on the ax53 I think. The ring on the front is assignable to different tasks. Including focusing. These are all really cheap cameras though.
Hi. Just to let you know that I just clicked on your Amazon link to check the price of the Manfrotto Tripod and it sent me to the US Amazon site. I tried another link and it did the same.
OK, thanks Barrie. Mine went to the UK link, but the model is different. Maybe mine has now been taken off the market. This is where mine went ... www.amazon.co.uk/Manfrotto-Lightweight-Element-Traveler-MKELES5BK-BH/dp/B01N079WTU/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=Manfrotto+tripod+lightweight&qid=1618951059&sr=8-3
I would say much the same as the others. I set shutter at 1/50th and let the aperture deal with brightness. Sometimes it pays to slightly underexpose to avoid burned out areas. When walking around, I move the shutter to 1/100th sec. 50fps. If there is little movement, don’t worry so much about shutter speed.
Sir, Can you explain why my streaming vidio quality is very poor when using Sony CX 405 camera. What will be the reasons... Connect to OBS via normal vidio capture..
Hello! You seem to be a very knowledgeable chap. I'm looking for a Sony handycam to improve my youtube video quality. Can you recommend one that isn't too expensive? It's basically to film small reasonably quick RC cars in sometimes low light conditions (woods). A slomo feature would be nice, as would a wide angle lens. Sorry If this seems like a tall order, but I have very little knowledge in this area (as you can probably tell 😂). Thank you in advance!
Up to the cx625, the differences in quality are quite small really. It’s more to do with features. The ax53 is excellent but not cheap. The problem with camcorders is the small sensor. They don’t do that well in low light. To be honest, I do wonder whether the Osmo Action 4 might be better for you. It has a wide angle lens and is better in low light due to its larger sensor. Much easier to carry around as well. It also has slow mo. Or do it yourself by using a high frame rate and slowing it down in your computer.
@@iancraig do you know what, I've just been looking at the dji action cameras. Was also looking at the gopro's as well, but they seem to have some issues with the newer stuff. I think you have solidified my next direction. 👍🙏
I get fantastic results from mine. If you look at my recent videos from Sandbanks (Just vlogs) they were all done on the Action. I was taking test footage down there for a shop video in different lighting conditions, so there are a lot of examples there. Sound is a lavalier directly into the camera.
Hey I've been trying to buy the Sony CX450 for a while now but everywhere I've looked its been out of stock. Do you know why? And is there anywhere I can buy a new Sony CX450? You convinced me to buy one aha. Thanks!
@@iancraig Yeah I live in the UK, I've tried everywhere. Amazon, Argos, Currys. The CX450 and all the other sony video cameras and video cameras made by other brands are all out of stock in those shops. I have no idea why. Argos won't deliver or allow me to collect the CX450 in my area for some reason. Not in stock in my local Argos and not available for delivery.
Oh yes .... you’re right. I had a look around. That’s a pity because the cx450 has an audio input and it’s not bad sounding with a lavalier. Looks like only the 240, 405 and 625 remain and only the 625 takes a mic in.
It looks like the 450 is no longer around. Great pity because it took sound. The only cheap way in is to use a 240 or 405 with a Zoom H1n or Tascam DR05 I guess. I often use a recorder but my software links the video and audio for me.
A very well explained course on Sony.I am very thankfull for your time and effort. Great words from an experienced guy. I always wanted to avoid chinese mobiles or things . After considering pocket i droped it because of no servicecenter in india. I am planning to do vlogging also. T was wondering why people are not using camcoders any way i have ordered one. Its great in stabilization and output quality. I even used nokia 4.2 to shoot vlogs. but some over sharp images and white balance etc problems are there with cam. I hope to do great with new once. Can you just recommend me a setup rings of correct size for the cx405 with a good pair of monopod . please include a small video on keeping it safe and cleaing the lens etc. I wish to use it atlest for 4 years or more with out any problems if everything goes well. I purchased it from indian Amazon. Thanks again .........
@@iancraig thanks for the replay can you tell me the size of the step up ring . there are a lot in the amazon. T think it will help to get a good result .thankyou.
Just measure across the front of the lens in millimetres. I use these for filters and as a lens hood by putting a load of step ups on .... www.amazon.co.uk/Concept-Stepping-Adapter-Step-Up-Step-Down/dp/B00JL4HGAI/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=37JN4IC7WKH2D&dchild=1&keywords=Step+up+rings&qid=1635158413&sprefix=step+up+rings+%2Caps%2C134&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUE5QlRRVzBPRkE3S1omZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTA4NTc2NzUyRTVDRVI5SDhNVFVQJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTA2NjU2NDgxOTRaQlRCQk5KWjMzJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==
What is bluer? I think you mean blur? Bokeh? This is not so easy with camcorders. Set the exposure to aperture priority and open the aperture as far as it will go. This will speed up the shutter speed so an nd filter is useful on the lens to make sure movement looks smooth. Or else, just use it on static or slow moving subjects.
The settings I showed aren’t really specific to any camera and are pretty generic. The Sony menu systems are also pretty similar throughout the range. Basically, 25 or 50fps. 50 if you are running around makes for a smoother video. In both cases, I use 1/50th second shutter. If I am running around a lot, with a lot of juddering, I raise the shutter to help stabilisation work, but actually, the stabilisation isn’t bad if you’re steady at 1/50th. You then get the same motion blur. I generally underexposed by 0.5 of a stop. In really bright weather, 1 stop. If you are in USA, the 1/30 or 1/60 with 1/60th shutter for motion blur. (Actually, I tend to use 1/50th at 30fps) The cx405 doesn’t have that much to adjust. It’s mostly designed for auto. White balance works the same way, and if I can, I set it myself as I showed on the video. Auto is ok though, but it dies veer towards blue sometimes I think so if I use auto, I take blue down a fraction. Try not to go mad zooming in and out! The zoom is massive and it can get very wearing to watch. I turn off digital zoom and only use optical.
@@iancraig thanks. I set my camera to xavc s hd, 1080p, 60p and shutter speed at 1/125. I set it to 125 because I read online that the shutter speed should be double the fps. what do you think of my settings?
I use 60fps at 1/60th shutter. Gives similar motion blur to slower frame rates but is smoother at 60fps. To be honest, shutter isn’t quite as noticeable at 60fps so it’s not that critical at 1/120th or 1/60th. When running around maybe a bit faster but for times when I’m holding the camera still, I go back to 1/60th. The 180 shutter rule is more critical for 24 and 25fps. Or if you are producing slow motion from 60fps where you want it to match with slow frame rates. Try 1/60th and video something moving in front of the camera. The slower shutter can give a fraction more motion blur which is a bit nicer. Some people are more aware of it than others. Gerald explains a lot here ua-cam.com/video/UPPSdCrqcFQ/v-deo.htmlsi=CQ-zJkrAlq7frVzE
I prefer the 450 because it has a mic input. Basically the same as the 405. At the price levels of these, I can’t think offhand how others compare. For better quality I use an ax53 but you pay a lot more for that. These cheap cams aren’t ‘brilliant’ but they do sharpen up nicely in post. I shot a 12 part music series for kids using 3 Sonys at the same time. (So colours matched) i managed it on the 405 (b roll) 450 for side shots and the ax53 for main shots. They all performed really well and actually made setting up (during covid at home) very fast. No fiddling around with settings. Set up lights and mics, and all cameras on auto! The series sold well to our customers and kept us going right through covid!!
It’ll work but it depends what you’re doing it for. I watch my footage on a 55 inch tv. For anything serious I use a Canon mirrorless camera with a decent lens. For films you really need a separate recorder because the sound on these probably won’t be good enough.
My biggest question is... Can I continue filming in the same time if the camera is loading the battery? The battery goes emty but i want continue filming, can I use a powerbank? Is that bossible with sony camcorders?
It is possible, but honestly, a few batteries in your pocket are all you need. Camcorders go on for much longer than a DSLR. I think 90 minutes each so three batteries would give 4.5 hours.
Hi! Thank you for the video and answering to comments. I have bought AX43 with almost the same specifications. I am planing to shoot football game in low light enviroment, stadium with not very good floodlights. If I choose to shoot from the middle of the pitch am I be able to get good video while zooming in the other side, or have to take position on the half where the action is (close to attacking goal)? And, is it better to shoot in 4K or in HD, can I make some slow motions (like a scorin goal) from the video with a some of the programs like HitFilm, or some other?
4k or HD is difficult to answer because you’re videoing football. HD gives you 60 or 50 fps whereas 4k has more pixels but just 30fps so not as smooth. For sport, you might be better with HD at 50 or 60fps.
Great info Ian. I could use some feedback. I tried to make a few adjustments on my Sony AX53 and could not reduce blown out whites very well. With most of the setting on auto, I first turned on Zebra, it showed me the blown out bits, I then played with the shutter speed and tried turning on AE shift, neither seemed to do much, I still had lots of zebra striping. The odd thing is, I was getting zebra stripes on Black, gray and white parts. I am shooting indoors with two LED COB type bulbs with a diffuser, in 4K,100mbps, 30fps. Any feedback would be appreciated. Thank you. I always shoot indoors and keep camera on tripod so my hands are free to review, pick and tinker on locks..
Hi Albert. Are you using a slow shutter speed? Or is everything set at auto? I’d suggest fully auto exposure first to look at the zebras. Off the top of my head, I think there may be two levels of zebra: one at 70% (to monitor skin tone) and another at 100%. I use 100. Then you see the truly blow out areas. At 70%, anything above that will show zebras. I’m not at home to check mine to see whether the ax53 allows you to set the level where zebras show. I might be confusing it with the ZV-1 though. If blacks are showing zebras, then it is really overexposed. Are you sure that the camera is on auto? I think it might be better for you to reset everything back to default and stay fully auto. If the picture is correct, then there is something wrong in one of the settings for sure. Just had a thought ..... check spot meter is off. If that has been set previously for a dark area, then everything else will be overexposed.
@@iancraig Thanks so much Ian, I will run through all this when I get home. And yes, the AX53 does have zebra 70 and 100. I was using 70 to test settings.
Ok, Albert. 70% is used for skin tone. It will make anything over 70% will go into zebra. But if blacks are showing zebras, something is definitely wrong. Over exposure could be caused by the spot meter. It’s difficult to over expose to be honest because the ax53 doesn’t have a fully manual mode. Quite a lot of my settings are shown on this video so take a look. Where I am showing the viewing screen.
That sounds about right, Albert. If the blown out bits are big or important, then use the AE shift. If not, leave it at that. The contrast range is a bit wide in spite of using a diffuser. I generally slightly underexpose. If I see a lot of zebras, I lower the exposure, but then it is also quite important to check how deep anything black is. You don’t want to lose detail at the other end. If you keep getting zebras with indoor lighting, it might need more diffusion or it’s a bit too bright.
A quick run through my camcorders and the 4 or so most important settings to get you up and running. Links in description.
Keep them coming my friend.
I love this stuff.
Keith
Bro, you dont have enough camcorders.
You need more camcorders.
I do. Great idea. I'll get more.
Man, that is pure horror film....
ua-cam.com/video/qfsdj5lk_5A/v-deo.html
@@iancraig Yes horror, but I survived, I was lucky that day, but I just bought a Sony CX405 on Amazon and think about making an unboxing video . Gotta find a way to use it as action cam and think about holding it in my mouth, hope the 405 fits.
Did you ever use a camcorder as action cam ?
Yes, but it won't fit easily in my mouth. I prefer a little camcorder for vlogging to the GoPro actually, because you can see what you're doing on the bigger screen more easily and the camcorders have apertures that can change. The GoPro is fixed so you have to be faffing with ND filters if you want to fix the shutter speed correctly. With camcorders, the aperture corrects exposure for you; and on these, even at 1/50th second shutter
It boggles my mind why so many people dislike Camcorders, I mean, they were made for video and go a great job at it.
They do a great Job Andre. I love rhe speed that I can be running them, which makes them ideal for fast grab shots. I’ve used that so many times when something randomnly happens. These ones are fantastic starter cameras since they do so well in ‘auto’, plus room for development when you want to begin playing with settings, where they still hold on to exposure for you, while you adjust what you want. Great for kids learning aperture/shutter control.
I had an email from a watcher who told me he wouldn’t want to be seen outside with a camcorder. Looks like image is more important than the video .....
Me too Tony. I’m 67.
@@iancraig very true, not many people use camcorders now ,maybe they will make a comeback. Have several cams old and new, Still use my Panasonic hdc-sd900 that are now becoming rare to find nowadays, its a great cam that produces very clean balanced colours and better skin tones unlike the modern action cams like dji and gopro that always tend to be too sharp and unbalanced colours although still use them myself. All depends what your trying to achieve and personal preferences but i prefer to use a camcorder
I love the ease of use with camcorders. With my ax53, I’m literally shooting in seconds withgood expose and white balance.
With my M50 or ZV1, I’m very concious of having to set them up.
The GoPro is always stressful because it might crash, freeze, whatever!
The DJI Pockets have tiny screens so I have to make sure they’re preset before I go out with my glasses on.
The Action, I use mostly in auto with a little preset at home.
But even the cx405 is off in seconds.
Thank you, Ian, for giving me a basic understanding of how to set up my cx405 . This is my first video camera and all of the other demonstrations I have viewed assume I already know how to operate the camera. Now I need to find one that explains how to playback the recording I made.
Hi Phil. Do you mean playback on the camera? On the screen there's a playback button. Bottom left. Use the scroll button to get down there and push it in. Then scroll to the date of the videos you see there and then the individual videos will pop up and you can see them on the camera.
CX 240: I just bought my first camcorder and am happy that you and a lot of other folks enjoy your Sonys. Thanks for the review.
Hey! 3 years later I know haha, I have a CX 240 and use it for plane spotting even years later and it still works great in 2024!
I just bought my second hand cx240 TODAY, and I only want to try it outdoors asap jahaj also to record bts with the digital texture this camcorders have. So happy rn even in 2024
your video is so thorough and simple and direct i've looked at some of the other videos and confusing or they just don't give the right information you give the right information
I’m glad that it’s still useful. It’s quite an old video now!
Ian
I'm getting this message when I press the photo button it says you cannot record a still image what do I do to correct that@@iancraig
I’m not certain. Something is switched on that stops it. Try changing resolution to 1080 not 4k if that is an option. I’m not at home so I can’t check my camcorders to see, but I’m sure that it’s one of the settings.
It can be a few things …… check this …..
www.sony.co.uk/electronics/support/articles/00072736
And finally after doing a bunch of stuff I went back to the shooting mode and I noticed before if I set it on photos it stayed on photos and I could do both but now it seems like anytime I need to do a photo I have to go into the shooting mode and choose photos and then I can take the picture so I don't know what happened maybe my camcorder isn't working right@@iancraig
I really don’t know! There has to be a setting that is interfering……
Thanks for this Ian.
I have the cx405 camera and up until recently I was filming with the default settings. I followed your video and noticed that the quality was much clearer which I loved however when I went to the beach the camera made the blue skies look white whereas this didn’t happen when I was using the default settings. I really want to keep the quality from following your video but finding it difficult with this brightness issue. I have tried adjusting the exposure, etc but wished there was a way around this as sometimes I don’t have the time to adjust settings every time I’m out and about with friends. This issue only occurs when I’m outside, otherwise the quality is amazing indoors and I wish it could stay like this while outside so I don’t have to keep changing the settings if possible.
Would really appreciate a video just about the cx405 and all the settings for it for a beginner like me. Thanks Ian
I’ll take a look. It sounds as though the dynamic range of the camera can’t capture both sky and scenery. Not so bright in UK. Can you under expose any more?
I will try. I currently live in the uk as well, Scotland, but the footage still turns out a bit hazy when I’m outside. It’s a shame because the quality is brilliant when I adjusted the settings as you did but only when I’m inside. I also tried changing the white balance but this didn’t work.
The only thing that I can think of that will change the exposure is the shutter. Generally, I have a manual shutter, but if that isn’t working on the beach, then set it to auto. Maybe your beaches look brighter than ours? You could set ev to -1. Other than that, all I can think of is that the contrast range between sky and land is too great. Since you have a cx405, you can’t fit a filter, but a polariser could help with the sky.
I will give these tips a try, much thanks Ian. I’m considering buying the Sony ax43 next year, do you think it would be better in dealing with this exposure/brightness issue in comparison to the cx405? I have been watching videos and the quality of the ax43 does look very good but I’m just not sure if it would be worth it since it is quite pricey for me. I would really appreciate your opinion.
I don’t know whether the exposure thing would be fix because I’m not exactly sure what is going on if I’m honest. I use the ax53 a lot and it’s excellent.
Thank you Sir, you explained things in a way us amateur folks can grasp and use. I enjoyed your presentation
Wondered, why my last videos were so bad in Quality, now with your help I set up my CX405 the correct way and can hope for better videos. Thank you!
Hopefully, the settings will help. With cheap cameras like this though, remember that there will most likely be compromises with the lens.
For a slightly sharper appearance, try adding just a touch more contrast and add a little sharpening in post if your software has it. Be careful with sharpening though because pictures might flicker with zooming or movement. Too much sharpening makes it worse.
A very clear and helpful guide - like having a friend in the room. Well done!
Thank you.
Thank you alot for this video! My first camcorder is Sony CX405 and you helped me figure it out! One more time Thank you.
It’s a nice little camcorder. I’m glad this helped although this video is quite old now!
Wonderful information!! I got my first camcorder today, a Sony CX405 and Im very excited to use it
Nice one Hugh. I really love the ease of use with camcorders. Plus of course, massive battery life and the ability to shoot for long stretches and that zoom. Next, you’ll be into tripods with the zoom!
Hi How do you turn off the smile sensitivity so it will stop taking auto steel shots? Thank you!
I think it’s in the menu system. ‘Smile sensitivity’. I’m not sure if it can be fully turned off, but the sensitivity can be changed so it might be there.
BTW, I’m a retired oboist. I see you’re a flautist!
@@iancraig Yes, that's great! I hope you still play. I bought these camera to video record our concerts. Thank you!
Hi Ian, I learn a lot from your vids, thnx. But I have still 1 question : what is the best way to keep the focus while zooming in and out? Best Regards, Jerry. 👍😁
Hi Jerry. You might not like this but it is better to not zoom in and out while videoing. You could try closing the aperture down so at least it stays at as closed as it can be while it zooms in. I don’t even think manually focusing works at different focal lengths either.
great stuff, your videos convinced me to buy a CX405. I cant wait to record my first.
I saw all your videos on sony cx405 and I decided to buy an used sony :) Thank You for you videos
They’re handy little cameras. The only thing that I would like is the ability to use 24, 30 and 60fps in UK. Here, they’re sold as 25 and 50fps cameras only. In USA they sell as 30 and 60. I managed to find a hack for my ax53 so I can use either, but there doesn’t seem to be one for the CX range.
@@iancraig I'm not a professional filmmaker: i want only open cam and record. I ride in moto and I use a gopro6 and another cheap action cam during the journey. I bought a DJI pocket (fantastic) just to complicate my photographic live
II have a little problem: the old age is coming up and i don't see clearly the display of these three device and overall I don't want to be going crazy in the menu ;). Thank you again for your explanations
At the ripe old age of nearly 70, I have the exact same problem!
Greetings from Liverpool. I would like to say thank you. Your content is just the ticket for me, I have recently invested in my first Handycam from Sony. I'm going to use it yet as it is a gift for my birthday in November. I'm pleased to of found your channel. Best wishes, Lee. 😊
I was videoing a vlog up in Liverpool not so long ago Lee. The Cathedral, Albert Docks, and a Curiosity Museum, not to mention the Cavern. Lovely place.
@iancraig Yes Ian, I watched it. It was very nice to have you visit our beautiful city.
This is great! Love the picture settings I had no clue, thank you!
Thank You is there a particular White/ gray standard to do the custom white balance?
There is. You can buy a white or grey card online to hold in front of the lens to get true white or grey from Amazon.
Very well explained, thank you, great video as always
Thank you.
I have using cx405...pl.goodw tips for good shooting
Great video…makes everything easy to understand. If I have a CX440 and shooting mostly clouds and storm formations from an outdoor tripod, how would you do the settings? I have noticed sometimes the clouds get blown out so I did the one-touch white balance as you suggested. As for the rest, I have no clue.
Thank you Calabamian. The clouds are like to be blown out if you include land or trees in the shot. The reason being that the camera ‘sees’ a dark area and so boosts the exposure. There are two things you could try.
A) lower the exposure compensation by a stop or so. Personally, if I wanted cloud detail, I would expose purely for the sky.
B) a more technical way is to use a semi nd filter or what is called a graduated nd filter. Top half is nd, bottom half is clear. If there is no thread on the lens, then you could hold it in place which is also nice because you can adjust up and down for where you want the nd effect to start. This method gives correctly exposed land as well as sky!
Basically, the clouds get blown out due to the dynamic range being too wide for the sensor.
Thank you Ian for this concise guide to all the important settings. I just bought a used CX405 and I was wondering if there is a way to see or set the effective ISO setting on this camera, or some kind of workaround I can do to trick the camera into using a lower ISO setting. It has settings for white balance, exposure, focus, iris, shutter but not ISO. I'm shooting how-to video. The camera is steady on a tripod, and I have several lights on the subject. The video is looking good, but I'd like to get as clean an image as possible. Thanks!
There is no ISO control on the CX camcorders. It’s not until you get to the ax series that there is a minimal control where you can limit the ‘gain’. I found this a nuisance as well because you have to set the lights as bright as you can in order to get a low ISO. Also set the shutter so it forces it down.
@@iancraig Thank you - the tip on setting the shutter to indirectly force down the ISO is what I was looking for. And I'll throw as much light as I can at the subject.
At 50fps, I use a 100 degree shutter…. 1/50th. On very slow movement, you can get away with 1/25th at 25fps.
I’m interested in getting a Sony cx405 for casual use,what do you think?
That’s what I use mine for. It’s hard to not get a reasonable picture with it in all honesty and if you want to in post, footage can be improved with some sharpening and tweaking. I often pick mine up on the way out and drop it in my pocket ready to use!
Hi nice review. I have de cx405. I want to record secuencial images for skateboarding but i dont know how to do it with the sony cx405 it supposed to have slow motion shots. Could you do a vido ezplaning how to do it or just leave a commemt ?
Cx405 doesn’t do slow motion. You can video at 60fps though and slow footage by 50% giving 30 fps.
@@iancraig Thanks.
Thanks man! JUST got my Sony FDRAX43... loving it! good tips!
I love the ax series. I often use the ax53. I have a programme on my computer that switches it from PAL to NTSC and back again which is really useful too.
Can you tell me which camcorder do you use to record this video?
@@lehuunghia12cs60 I think I used a Canon mirrorless camera. M6.
@@iancraig I have a Handycam too, HDR PJ590V (same as PJ580 or 600). Nowadays, so many people use Mirrorless or smartphone instead of Handycam. I was a little confused which one to buy, but I bought a Handycam. Now I search for tips, but they have 1000 tips for camera, action cam, etc. but no tip for Handycam until I see your video. Thank you very much (sorry about my bad English)
@@lehuunghia12cs60 The same kinds of things applies to handycam and other cameras really. Get the shutter down and play around with apertures for depth of field and before you know it, you start to get really nice looking videos. Just a little care.
The funny thing with video is that over the years, I’ve kind of learned to try and keep the camera as steady as I can at all times. Move around when necessary, but other than that keep still. Just doing that improves viewer experience massively since the screen isn’t flicking around all over the place when they are watching.
So many people with action cams throw them around all over the place thinking that they’re getting some kind of exciting footage……. But really, it’s not that exciting. No storyline. Nothing particular to focus on. Just a shaky, blurry mess of action! The more I see of incessant motorbike rides or cycle rides down a path, the wider I start to yawn in all honesty. Do they really watch videos of going down a path fast all the time?
So never mind the camera. Get some really nice footage that gives information out or tells a story or even better … both. Much more entertaining and no one worries what camera or settings you used then!!
Thank you sir for sharing, . I love my Sony cx 405 and using ot on my vlog, I will follow these tips on my camcorder to take good videos
Hi, This is a great video. I just purchased a Sony FDR AX43 . What would be the recommended settings if I have to capture stars and milky way in full dark sky location.
Thank you Aravazhi. The AX43 is a nice camcorder, but capturing stars is an extreme low light situation. This means that camera will automatically go into a high iso setting, which isn’t ideal.
Using just the camera, I would turn digital zoom off and use 4k. If you want a higher frame rate, the it has to be 1080p but that will half the light.
It might be an idea to try a 360 degree shutter…. Set to 25fps and fix the shutter at 1/25th. Or even, try slower if the camera doesn’t move!
It has to be on a tripod.
I wouldn’t switch on the low light boost setting if the camera has one. That is just going to raise iso. If the image looks dark, I wouldn’t worry because the relative whiteness of the stars/planets will be a lot brighter, relatively speaking.
I have a feeling that the camera will try to raise the black sky to grey, so you could try getting a white piece of paper, shine a light onto it and put it in picture, just into one corner. Move it further in and out and watch the screen. As you get more white showing, the screen will darken (which might well improve the picture quality) and in post, cut slightly into the picture to remove the white corner. If you video in 4k, you can then render into 1080p in order to make things a little better looking perhaps at the end.
The biggest problem is that the camera will try to raise black to grey, or white down to grey. So having a black sky will mean that the camera will try to over expose. That’s where the white paper truck fools the camera to make the image darker.
Another useful thing will be to turn the exposure compensation right down. This might lessen the ‘grey’ effect.
I don’t know whether there is a telescope attachment available but that would help. If you have a telescope, try putting the lens up against the eyepiece ….
In post, darken the image. Let the black sky drop into the pits and watch the stars. Get them to a good brightness if you can. Getting the black sky totally ‘blacked out’ will hide image noise.
These camcorders aren’t designed for such extreme photography, but the things I mention might help.
Cheers
Ian
@@iancraig Thanks Ian , Appreciate your detailed response
Thanks Ian, a very helpful video. I bought the CX405 a couple of years back for a trip to Cambodia (back when Australians were still allowed to travel). Ah the memories. Anyway I picked it up because the price was right and because it took the same battery as the little Sony compact I was taking. I was a bit doubtful about it since my last experience with a camcorder was a standard definition model (make and model forgotten) and frankly the video quality on that camera was so bad it put me off camcorders full stop. But using the little CX405 on my trip I found things had changed a lot and thought if this is what a reasonably recent base model camcorder could do I was interested again. It was brilliant. And I have to admit I am attracted to the idea of using kit that most people these days find unfashionable. I think I am safe in saying that.
Anyway, thanks again for making these videos. I look forward to the future editions. Cheers.
Thanks John. I don’t care about fashion at all! If the camera does the job, then that’s great. I love the portability and lightness of this camera. Internal mics are OK and it has an insane zoom. So if you want to go out lightweight, this is very nice.
I would love to get to Australia. So far away though. I think the people are less mistrusting than Brits and a little more warm hearted.
Great video! Tell me, If you need to make a vídeo for UA-cam, full HD (1.080p), what do you prefer, iphone 12 or a camcorder cx 450?
I’ve never used a phone to make a video, but I’ve heard (and seen) that the IPhone works well. I’m guessing it would be 30fps on a phone as opposed to 50 or 60 on the cx450. (Depending where you are … pal or ntsc. Perhaps IPhones also do 60fps?
There might be more chance for bokeh on the cx450. (Although it’s not brilliant for bokeh) For exposure, again, I’m guessing that a phone adjusts shutter and not aperture.
For sound, I think the cx450 might be easier. And stabilisation. Better zoom too.
Because I’ve never used a phone, I don’t really know the answer to that. My own personal preference would be the ease of use on the cx450 but my guess is that a phone could easily match or bypass in picture quality with some limitations on bokeh, zoom and stabilisation.
Great job, it was very helpful.
Thank you.
I can't seem to select 60i
Is this "Pal" thing still a thing?
Great video 👍🏻
Thank you. Unfortunately, Sony lock it to 50 or 60 hz, depending on which country you bought it in. Daft really. I have an AX53 and that was locked into 50 Hz but I managed to find a programme that allows me to switch it between 50 and 60. The PAL/NTSC is a relic now that should be left to history!
@@iancraig Thank you for you kind response! So buying a NTSC model would give me 24/60 instead of 25/50? If so, an adapter would be needed I guess for charging since the voltage is different.
Would 50i give any problems later with programs since it is a outdated format?
Charging is no problem on my ax53 in ntsc. You can only get a 24/60 camcorders from an ntsc country. I would use 50i. Switch it to 50P.
Thank you Ian Craig audio, video, reviews and tips, this is great love your instruction, added this to a playlist on my channel.
Thanks Len. I had a battle with exactly how much to show. I’m wondering about breaking it down into segments and making a mini series on them since there does seem to be interest in camcorders.
@@iancraig Ian, thanks, a mini series would be great, i would watch for sure, and many folkes like me who are seriously looking into YT video production, with zero experience, with camcorders, and video editing, on a computer.....
Weird you can't plug a mic into the 405 because I can on my CX380 as long as I'm on battery power (because it uses the same port as the plug in power.)
The cx405 uses a usb connection vía a built in wire with a female plug. So unfortunately, no mic input. We can’t get the cx380 in the UK. I have no idea why!
Thank you so much for this! I love my Sony handycam but I’m really struggling with filming in low light such as candlelight indoors. Could you please make a video on how to adjust settings for that? Thanks so much!
Candlelight indoors for such a small sensor is asking a lot. You are bound to be in the realms of very high noise levels.
I would suggest a 100 degree shutter so that the frame rate is the same as the shutter. That means if you are using 50fps then set the shutter to 1/50th. Alternative, fix the aperture as wide as it goes. I suspect both ways will work out the same. Try underexposing so that the details that you want to see are there but other stuff is just blacked out. Or use a small light to boost levels
It really is asking a lot of a cheap camcorder with such a tiny sensor to work in low light. I'll take a look at mine.
Hi again. I had a go because it’s dark here now and lit a candle. I played around with settings, but unfortunately, I can’t see any way of working with just candlelight.
The problem is that the camera has only auto ISO and can’t be fixed, so there is no way of avoiding noise. I tried setting the shutter even lower than the frame rate. Still very noisy.
So the only way to do this is to use miniature lights on the subject and either put an orange type gel over the light or set the white balance to daylight and let the candle ‘colour’ the picture. If you want the candle to do this, then you need quite a low level light, just to try and lower the iso in the camera.
Another way is to use a light that has special effects on it. I have a light that emulates candlelight and even flickers but unfortuately, I don’t think that the camcorders can work down there at such low levels of light.
I think I would use an orange type of light just to make the scene ‘look’ candle lit. I can do it on my Canon camera, but that has an extremely fast lens that can work in low light, but not the Sony.
I’m afraid that it needs lighting.
@@iancraig thanks so much for trying it out. I appreciate the effort. I suppose I’ll need to take a different approach to get a candlelit effect. Perhaps I can make adjustments in post.
Yes, post work would be needed. The camera will also try to overexpose in dark conditions, so believe it or not, you may have to take it down. In post, you could try darkening the shadows only to ‘hide’ noise. If your editing package does this, it would increase the contrast so light bits stay light, but dark grey bits are blacked out. I’ll see what I can find out, but really, the camera hasn’t got a fast enough lens or a sensor that’s big enough to do that.
I’ve found an answer, but not great for anywhere public! I used a very small light. (I used a Litra) Set it on its lowest setting and pointed it at the ceiling. While focused on the candle light and surrounding bits, I moved th light around until the Litra light and the candlelight balanced with each other.
The camera lowered its ISO a bit (I think) but the picture was way more acceptable. So the answer is a very low level light.
I have a hdr-cx190 and I’m going to be using this camcorder to record a lecture I will be giving. I’m curious what microphone level do you recommend, and white noise setting, and the built in zoom mic setting. I will be about 20 feet from the camera. Also do you keep you low lux on or off? Thank you
If you can get away with it, keep the low lux off. You may have to put it on though. It’s a video amplifier so can introduce noise but without it, the picture may be too dark.
For mic gain, speak in situ and set it so the the bars peak close to the top. If your camera is like mine, they have a limiter to stop them over modulating, so just get the bars waving around, close (ish) to the top.
At 20 feet away, I would use a Lavalier ideally if the camera has an input. Either a wireless or an extension lead to the camera.
My camcorder doesn’t have an external mic option.
How can I lock Fader for the Sony CX550? I set it to white fader, but it will not lock it in. If I turn the camcorder off, then I have to reset the fader again. Thanks for the lessons.
I don’t think you can Eddie. For some reason, Sony see it as a special effect.
@@iancraig I thought so as well. Thanks for the answer back. I still love the camera.
Thank you for the tips Ian! I just purchased the CX405 and will try these settings on my next video!
Glad it was useful. The CX405 can give great results and is really portable.
I have a hdr-cx405 to film my daughters soccer matches. I film both night and day games. Can you suggest the best settings? I shoot numerous short clips every match zooming in and following action so lots of movement. I recently purchased a telegraphing pole for stability
I would use 50 or 60 fps on ‘auto’ because you’re probably moving the camera fast, and all over the place while tracking the ball.
For night shooting with floods, you might need to change the white balance away from auto but if it stays consistent over the whole pitch, I’d leave it on auto.
There’s not really that much you can alter on a cx405.
@@iancraig Thanks. I appreciate your response and tips
Thanks for clearing up the 'camcorder' terms that I am not used to! I'm using a Sony VG-20 as a small/budget cinema camera and am very happy with it so far. I traded in an Olympus OMD em-Mkii for (which I did really like!) and have not looked back. It has been a little bit of a struggle changing terms (Iris, etc.) and losing a little bit of control because of the auto settings. But, the fact that it runs for hours and can interchange lenses is awesome. The Sony18-200 does pretty much everything but I also hang it on the back of a Sony 200-600 lens for wildlife. That makes it extremely versatile. Augmented with a GoPro set on Linear for walk and talk, I've got everything I need. It would be great to have 120fps or more, but that can wait for now.
I like the Sony camcorders because they are so quick to set up. You just don't realise until you start using something else like the ZV1 or Canon M50. Where there are so many settings that can backfire on you. Not with camcorders.
For instance, I went out with a Sony ZV1 and hadn't realised that I had accidentally shifted the ISO from auto to 6400, I think it was. The noise levels were awful. Reason being that auto is right next to the highest setting and I hadn't seen it on the small display!
In that respect, camcorders just do the job well without all the fuss!
Another beautiful and very useful video. Thank you for sharing and guiding. Your new subscriber
Thank you Trainman. Going through difficult time with my health at the moment, so taking it easy with videos at the moment. So you won’t get ‘bombed’ with notifications!!
@@iancraig Wishing you a speedy recovery
Great intro to the subject
Thanks for sharing :-)
Thank you Ian for this wonderful explanation. You really helped us a lot. I have FDR AX43. One of my concerns is that if I record on XAVC S HD, I could not send the files to my phone via wifi. How can I retrieve the files? Should I use an SD card reader instead?
I take the card out of the camera and there is a slot on my computer to read it. Otherwise a card reader. It’s faster than going out from camera.
Thank you for the help Ian. 🙏🏻
What's the filter setup you've got on the cx450, and why? Thanks.
I don’t usually use filters, but when I do, it’s normally a polariser for better colour saturation in sunny conditions or a variable ND filter to keep the shutter speed down
@@iancraig Thanks Ian
Hello! a question if possible, which of the Sony CX series cameras films better at night, in low light? I like the AX53 but it is a bit big for what I need..
In low light, I think they're all on a level with each other. Thing is that they do have tiny sensors so for good low light footage, something with a wide lens and larger sensor would be better. With the cx range, you'd be hard pushed to see any difference.
so the CX625 would shoot better in low light, having larger lenses, G sensor, compared to the CX450
I guess it would, but to be honest, I never particularly noticed. Probably just a slight difference. I avoid using camcorders in low light.
What do you think about the next level up, the FDR AX700? Looking to video music concerts, some indoor, some outdoor. Many times the stage is dark but the lights are bright. I'm open for ideas. :)
I’ve never tried the ax700 Gary. However, just looking at it, I think it would probably do a pretty good job. Although it goes to 4K, still no 50 or 60 fps which surprises me at that price level. I’m also not sure if it’s locked into PAL or NTCS, with no easy way to switch. I use the AX53 which is a UK version, locked into PAL but I am able to switch to NTSC via a software hack on my computer. I have a feeling that the ax700 might be the same.
Wow! What’s the attachment you have at the front of the CX-450?
They’re step up rings to act as a hood.
Great video. I picked up a CV450 from Argos and your tips are invaluable.
That’s really nice to know Peter. I often think I’m talking to myself on UA-cam and use it more as an experiment for myself of some sort in readiness for more important videos that I make.
@@iancraig Replying to correct myself and add some clarifications! I bought a CX450 from Argos in April 2022 - they are still available (just) but stock levels are low and patchy. Argos seem to get a couple in here and there every few weeks, so it's worth keeping your eye open and be willing to travel. I use it for filming kids sports (cricket, hockey, netball) and it's great for that use. The stabilisation is very good even on high zoom. I've fitted a cheap neutral filter to the front to keep dust and rain away from the lens and the lens cover. The ability to keep shooting with the viewfinder door shut is very useful - it helps a lot with battery life. When filming cricket I set it up on a cheap tripod, close the door and come back 2.5hrs later and it's still filming. A longer run time battery is also available from Sony and from 3rd parties, but I haven't needed it yet.
Forgot to add: you can run the camera off a power bank (it doesn't charge the battery, but acts as a power input to the camera) which means that if you want to record a full day of cricket you are only limited by your memory card size.
Hey great video. Can I attach an external microphone to Sony hdrcx-405 camera. I know it does not have a port.
There is no way to attach a mic unfortunately. The cheapest that does that in the range is the cx450.
Sabroooosooooo! Nice video, very useful. I own two CX240's that I use for streaming, both look great but your video help me improve the quality of the videos for editing. Thanks!
Editing can really take your mind off the video! Sometimes, I think I can analyse the video quality too much and it becomes an obsession when editing. So much that it can be very difficult to make colour/contrast decisions!!
With that white balance adjustment, do have to do that every time I'm in a different setting/shoot?
Do I hold the white card within an inch of the lens or so?
I don’t do a white balance for every shot tbh. I might do one and stay with it until I see something drastically changes on the screen. If you keep taking white balances, you’d probably miss shots. Very often, when I’m outside, I just set the camera to ‘sunny’.
If really variable, ‘auto’ does a pretty good job on Sonys. I then correct it in post if it looks ‘off’. By not using ‘auto’ and fixing white balance, it can stop the camera changing the white balance while you’re actually shooting!
The white card just needs to cover the majority of the frame and make sure the light source is reflected from it.
@@iancraig Thank you for the reply. Great help.
Hello, sorry for my English, it is not my native language.
I am really interested in the HDR-CX450 because of the possibility of the external microphone, however I am also interested in using the internal microphone mainly, but I saw a video where they said that the sound quality of the internal microphone was horrible. I have not been able to find another reference on the internet that evaluated the quality of the internal microphone of the HDR-CX450, but I did find that of the HDR-CX405.
Do you consider that there are differences in audio quality between these two models with respect to the internal microphone?
Hi Craig. How can I remove the menus from the screen to broadcast live or record? that is, so that the screen can be seen clean. I have a Sony cx405
I don’t live-stream, but normally the menu isn’t there when you are videoing. The shortcuts are though. I don’t think you can get rid of them.
Thanks for the knowledge !
i have cx405 camcorder.
when i open the recorded video on my computer there is date & time stamp on recorded video.
how to get rid of that stamps.
kindly request !
cheers !
Must be somewhere in the camera setup or video settings.
Nice presentation. Very useful. thanks.
Thank you so much!! By any chance could you recommend particular settings for shooting a dance video indoors at night (with moderate/medium amount of lighting)? I've had terrible time of it trying to get the video to focus and produce an actual HD image, even on HD settings. I'll try turning the stabilization off and go back through your video and try to guess at how to adjust my settings, but I just wondered if you had any quick pointers to save me more agony? Been trying to get good footage for days and spent countless hours editing to try to compensate to no avail. It seems like the only HD focus is on my very still shots, but I need this camera primarily for filming dancing.
Hi. In moderate lighting, it should be ok for focusing. If you are hand holding, you’ll need stabilisation switched on. The only reason I can think of as to why it doesn’t focus well is that you may be zooming in too close perhaps? If you zoom right in, the aperture will close up a bit making the video become darker, so it will automatically raise the iso which can affect clarity if the iso is too high. For starters, set everything to auto and see what the camera gets. If you are getting a good image, then maybe set up a custom white balance and try not to zoom. Better on a tripod as well since your subject is moving about a lot.
Hi Craig Enjoyed you video. i have just one question how can i adjust my frame rate to 60 p,I have a sony fdr-ax53 and i tried everywhere to look how to chane tis frame rate .
It might be in the setup when you first turn the camera on after you bought it. You can’t just switch between them once it’s set up. So you could try a camera reset and set it for 60Hz rather than 50.
@@iancraig ok thanks for that i will try it .thanks again
What's your recommendation card for better results? Then should everything be format first?
Just get a well known brand. Yes, format it. I format every time I start a new video. I use SanDisk ultra.
@@iancraig sundisk ultra?i use sundisk extreme but still get 50fps only..
Sorry Daniel, I just checked. I’m also using Sandisk Extreme. You don’t want to be using more than 50fps unless doing slow motion.
@@iancraig ok.thanks for the information.i'll try it..🙂😄
I am interested in using the hdr-cx405 for recording youth soccer. Is there any reason not to use the Highest and 60p settings? Thanks
I use the highest settings all of the time, David. In the UK, 50FPS. It helps to get smoother movement which you will want in order to capture a fast moving ball.
Many videographers use 30FPS in US or 25 in UK in order to get a ‘film’ look. It’s also a little easier on your computer for editing, but I actually don’t enjoy watching pans ‘judder’ and prefer a smoother look tbh.
Sports are very often filmed at a high frame rate in order to get smoother movement.
Will cx290 take a microphone on it trying to figure out how to get more sound
No. The 290 has no input listed for a mic.
@@iancraig ok thaw is wishful thinking a old camcorder had around for years now I will just have to make it work lol
The cheapest with mic input is the cx450 but not sure that it’s still around.
what would be best settings for filming a show ? like thatre or musical ? thx a lot !
Filming a show with a camcorder is quite an ask, depending on lighting. If the show is brightly lit, the camcorder will be fine, but in low light they might struggle. If you are using 50 or 60 frames per second, consider using a 360 degree shutter. That means, use the same shutter speed as the frames per second in order to get as much light in as possible. 360 shutter is what I use most of the time! So at 60 fps, use 1/60th shutter. At 30fps, use 1/30th. 30fps will let more light in. Don’t go any lower than the frames per second.
I would suggest auto white balance, unless you can see something white that’s lit on stage. Then take a white balance from that object. Zoom into it and use custom white blalance. Try daylight as well. Fixed white balance is better than auto in case they use coloured gels.
For sound, stereo would be nice. A stereo mic. If you aren’t filming the overture, then take a level from the band when they start up and go slightly lower in case of explosions.
I did some outdoor shows in Florida on a Sony camcorder and they were brilliant. Lots of light means good picture.
For serious stuff, I use a mirrorless camera with a lens that opens up to F1.4 so let’s a lot of light in. Camcorders won’t give you this.
Hi Ian, your videos have been great on deciding what camcorder to get so thank you!
Ive decided to get the 405, but wanted to know is there a setting to shoot in 4:3? Or does it have to be done in post. I saw at 3:42 there is an image size option.
Hi. The image size is for photos only. For video you can only use 16 x 9. I think that people really need to know that this is a low-end camcorder and so won’t offer the kinds of things you might see on big cameras, etc. It’s made for 16 x 9 videos in HD only. The photo option is there but isn’t really one I use.
@@iancraig thanks for your quick reply, appreciate it. Do you have a recommendation for a budget camcorder suitable for shooting 4:3? Looking to get something but price is an issue
I don’t know of any camcorders that shoot 4:3. The only thing I can think of is to cut the edges in post. Projects would need to be set up in 4:3 when you import footage and cut the footage so that it fits!
@@iancraig okay thank you!
@@iancraig sorry one last question: if I set the photo mode to 4:3, does it show the limits on the screen? Thinking of taking tape or pen and marking the limits, so can keep the subject in the frame when filming 16:9. Then editing down to 4:3 afterwards
Hey man, the 675 we are thinking of using for Vlogging. Whats the field of view like?
It’s just about useable. I have often done it.
Very helpful video. Thank you!
Can you record on the CX405 with the screen closed?
What I do is turn the screen around and close it so that the screen faces outwards, not inwards. Then it works. If the screen faces inwards, the camera turns off.
Hi Ian
I am considering the CX405 as part of broll in an outdoor theatrical events. Using two covering stage right and left.
Actors will be moving toward and away from the camera. How does it do holding focus? Can you shut off the auto focus?
Thanks. Andrew
There is a manual focus, but I would be careful using that if actors move around.
Even though this is a cheap camera, it does quite well in lower lighting conditions (like a stage) but the aperture will open up giving a shallower depth of field. So manual focus might be dodgy.
I have used it in concerts and shows, and the auto focus is actually pretty good. Also because it uses a small sensor, depth of field isn't as big an issue as it is with larger cameras.
Funnily enough, bigger cameras have more to go wrong in a theatre environment than these cameras in auto!
I've had some pretty good results. I have found setting exposure half a stop or do down stops the darker scenes being too grey looking and it helps to avoid blowouts on highlighted areas from spots.
It's very easy to over expose theatre stuff due to often stark lighting effects.
Thank you so much Mr. pro
Very well explained ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Don’t know about ‘pro’, but thank you Attou.
Do any of these allow you to pause ⏸️ recording? I video my kids pitching and would rather pause between pitches and time outs as I do with a cell phone currently.
You know, I’m not sure. You start and stop with a record button. I’ll have a look.
@@iancraig from what I can tell Samsung is the only manufacturer that had it on video cameras.
No, Sony’s don’t pause.
Hi Ian. Many thanks for your videos.
We have a HDR-CX405, which up until now has been left fully auto for simple holiday vides.
However........ next year we are on a cruise in November up to Tromso, hoping to see the Northern Lights.
Will happily take a tripod for stability, but what, if anything, can we do with the setting on the Sony to try & record any Aurora sights?
That will be difficult to capture because it's very low lighting. Try with stars and moon first before going.
I would try being off manual because auto exposure will try to over expose a black sky. Auto will always try to get a mid grey, but with auto you'll get a proper black by underexposing in comparison to auto.
@@iancraig Thanks Ian. Recognise that this is a very simple camera with regards to option, but you have given us some starting points for experimentation.
The cam has manual shutter speed & exposure settings
Thank you. It also uses auto white balance I think. The picture settings don’t seem to lock the colour balance which is a problem if there are coloured gels used on stage!
What settings should I use on the cx405 for a more vintage look
Low frame rate. 25fps. In post, give the video a slight brownish yellow cast and add film grain and even occasional scratches. There’s normally an effect in the editing programme.
hi ian, how can you get rid of the grain/noise on the screen of sony hdr cx405? it appears to be grainy even on menu
Hi. That sounds like a faulty camera. If the grain is large enough to see on the screen, I think something is wrong. If it’s new, I think I’d try to get it changed.
@@iancraig not really large enough it’s just not as clear as most screens nowadays. could it be due to cx405 being an old model? thanks for replying by the way
Hi, great videos on the Sony camcorders. I’ve just bought a cx625 and need some type of adaptor to connect my rode mic to the top cold shoe. Any suggestions?.. thanks
I use this one, but check that the mic doesn’t fit diirectly. It’s a standard size coldshoe but difficult to manouvre the mic in there. If it is too difficult with your mic then ....
www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00O1PZ9HE/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Please more video about Camcorders
Thanks you your for knowledge. This was very helpful.....
Glad it was useful to you.
I have an AX53, but just bought a CX-405 for an extra viewing angle. I feel a little disappointed at the picture noise though, and wanted to ask if it's because it's a small cheap camera. I expected Full HD Sony camcorders to be top-notch in 2024, even the small ones. I admit the lens is a lot smaller than the AX53, so the extra noise from CX-405 is normal, is it? I couldn't afford to be greedy and get TWO AX53s!
The cx405 isn’t up to the standard of the ax53 and is just noisier I’m afraid. It’s cheap, so expecting a £200 camcorder to match one costing three times the price is a big ask. The only answer is pile in a load of light!
@@iancraig Thanks for that. I was shocked at how small and light it was, and also like the USB powering as it will be sitting on top of my computer - no need for another bulky AC mains transformer. Just seeing you hold the AX53 after the CX-405 really shows the size difference. The CX-405 is truly a pocket camera. Only had it one day, so hope to warm to it despite the picture noise. My camera before the AX53, was the XR500V, which again was a mid-range. The only other niggle I have is not being able to switch it off easily with the HDMI plugged in. The power-save 1 minute auto-off is also disabled when the HDMI is plugged in for some reason.
I would be interested to know what settings are recommended when filming rock bands? I’ve just bought the cx625, but previously when filming with a Canon SX60HS on auto, I had all sorts of focus / blur issues due to the light show - plus colour washouts for the brightest shots. Sounds like with the Sony I can pick auto aperture? Is this the best option?
You can either use aperture priority or shutter priority. If you use aperture, then the shutter adjusts and if you use shutter the aperture adjusts.
Fix the white balance and don't use auto. Coloured lights will throw the white balance all over the place. Try setting exposure (if you can on the 625) half to one stop low, or if you have to, set everything except white balance to auto and under expose a little.
Theatre shots are hard to deal with because you get sudden extremes and really, a fully manual camera would probably work better.
However, I have managed some good theatre shots on yhe cx camcorders, but the quality really comes down to quality of lighting in the theatre in all honesty.
Outdoor sports video setting any help
Ian, have you heard about or used any mini 3-axis gimbals that fit the Sony 405?
I like the 405 because the stabilization is far more natural looking for vlogging - compared to the action cameras' digital stabilizing. However, it would be great to find a low-priced mini-gimbal to improve that stabilization and keep it consistent. I see great low-priced mini gimbals for go-pros, but the 405's shape won't fit on them. Meanwhile, regular camcorder gimbals are crazy expensive, and they're size is overkill for the Sony's featherweight 210 grams.
Hi Dave. I have only used one which I don’t think will fit to me honest. I just have a ton of lightweight tripods that I lug around.
This is the one I have, but as you say, it works with DSLRs. ua-cam.com/video/8nDf9_g1cTQ/v-deo.html or a manual one …. ua-cam.com/video/AtZAQbeSqTI/v-deo.html
@@iancraig Ian thanks, I wish to use the Sony 405 just like you show in the linked DSLR video. ButI think the back of the camcorder will snag the gimbal.
The manual one would fit but not as quick to set up.
Really Thank you. 😁
Ian
Thank you so very much for making this video😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😃😃😃😃😎😎😊😊🤷♂🤷♂
Superb video, especially for somebody like myself who has only been filming with my Samsung Galaxy S7 phone. I have been thinking about getting a Sony HandyCam, but now I am definately gonna get one. Probably go for the CX 450. You have explained the features so well that I probably won't need the manual. It should really help with my amatuer channel. You get a like and I have sub'd you Ian. Great channel. 👍
Thank you. While they're not the ultimate in sharpness, they have a very healthy zoom. I often sharpen or actually, what is called ... Unsharpen mask'. Then the picture really crisps up. The option for audio input would be useful so you can capture ambience at the time in stereo. I'd suggest a stereo mic. Then you could add voiceover later. The Sony camcorders are great because of their simplicity tbh.
Hi Ian, you were kind enought to help me choose a camcorder and we did indeed do what you suggested and got a Sony FDR AX-53. We love it and the quality is fab.
I seem to have mislaid the leads I got with the camera. They may turn up, but it leaves me with a question...
When I want to download the videos onto my PC would I use the micro USB or Micro HDMI socket? I'm hoping it's the former, because finding a micro HDMI to USB is a nightmare, wheareas a micro USB to USB is a doddle. I tried this latter and could not get a picture on the PC screen, but maybe I have to donlaod some Sony software or use a certain setting? (I know I could also get a HDMI to USB converter but that seems a lot of messing with software etc and I'm not sure I need that).
We are also considering a mic. I reckon the Rode VideoMicro looks about the best for us as we will not want a largeish mic to carry or to stick on the top of the camcorder. This seems to give agopod bang for buck and size. Thoughts?
Hi David. Well done ..... you bit the bullet and paid for the better camera.
With regards to leads, it’s a micro usb to the computer usb. Personally, I take the card out and use a usb 3 card transfer plug. It’s a normal usb 3 plug with an inbuilt slot for the card. That’s a lot quicker and moving the card keeps the pins clean on the camera. (At least that’s what I tell myself.) I then delete the clips from the card in one go rather than re format on the camera. Again, it’s quicker. (Especially at 4k)
As far as a mic goes, you might need a hot shoe extender to fit onto the camera first before attaching the mic. The extender just fits onto the Sony and lifts the mic for easy access.
I use a Deity d4 mini which is better value (imo) on the Sony or the Sennheiser mke400 which is a much more expensive option. The D4 also has an input for a lavalier so you pick up people in front of you well, but also your own voice beautifully.
For home videos where I’m not moving around, I use much posher mics with a recorder.
Another nice mic is the Deity D3 and D3 pro. Works well with the Sony.
I’d get the best mic you can because the soundtrack is there with the picture forever and bad pickup can ruin films.
@@iancraig That's really good advice. Sojme ideas for me to follow and look at there. Thanks, so much. :)
@@iancraig We are using the mic now and it's great. If we were to get a lavalier, would you recommend the Deity V.Lav Pre-Polarized Lavalier Lapel Microphone? Although that seems to have a 5m lead. I'm not sure if there is a reasonably priced one (uner £100) that is remote and works together with the D4 mini.
Many thanks for your thoughts so far and I have subscribed to the channel.
Thanks for subscribing Dave. I mostly deal with mics though. I only made the camcorder videos to answer people that know I use the Sony’s quite often!
With regards to a lavalier, I use a Little Clippy which is an unusual one but very low noise and sounds great. It’s a bit larger than most lavaliers but that’s possibly where its excellent sound comes from. Noise levels are way down at -80dB which is excellent for a lav. On top of that, it’s cheap.
If you are UK based, dead easy to get, but if you are USA then you would have to wait for it to artive from UK. They are sold and made by Micbooster.com
Other than that, I use Rode lavs, but I have found noise levels significantly higher than my Little Clippy.
The D4 mini is a bargain. The Little Clippy works well with it. In fact, I used that combo today for a mini vlog type thing with my wife, (on an Osmo Action) which I will probably be posting soon.
@@iancraig great thanks. I've had a look. Is it called "Little Clippy" as I could not find one called that? Is it a wired one? I don't mind one of those, but my wife says a wireless one would be better.
Thank you for making these videos! You give us a lot of useful info. I'm personally debating between getting a CX405 (just to get the job done) or shelling out more for an
Thanks Syn. Now I’m wondering what you’re thinking about shelling out on.
You have to remember that the cx405 is a real budget option but you can get a good result from it. Many people think a camera will make good videos, but it’s not just that. It’s knowing how to get the best from them and forming a well shaped video.
With the cx405, another thing that makes the video zing is a separate audio recorder to get good sound. It’s a good practise to get into actually for most video cameras.
I have another cx video coming soon.
@@iancraig For some reason I lost half my comment haha. Thanks for such a detailed response despite that! UA-cam is acting really weird for me. I meant to say or I could buy an AX53, which has a much higher upfront cost but I can see myself using it for a longer time than I would the CX405.
Since you have experience with both, my main question is: if I shoot at 1080p on the CX405 and the AX53 at the exact same settings, is there a noticeable difference in the picture quality?
And I've subscribed, looking forward to your future videos!
Thank you Syn.
The AX53 is quite substantially better. It is a much bigger camera but the lens is sharper and there is quite a bit more control over exposure.
I have 4 cx/ax cameras....
Cx405 for carting around in my pocket.
Cx450 for carting around with a lavalier for better sound.
Cx625 for portable stuff with shotgun mics
Ax53 for best quality and still retaining some portability.
Not to mention a Pocket, Pocket 2, Action, two GoPros and a Canon M50 with 4 lenses!
I kind of wish they would make retro style camcorders that look the old VHS video cameras, except without the tape. But comes with the manual zooms and focus rings on the lenses.
You do have a point, Mark. The manual zoom allows you to control the speed of it while filming and loses mechanical noise. You can do this on the ax53 I think. The ring on the front is assignable to different tasks. Including focusing.
These are all really cheap cameras though.
Hi. Just to let you know that I just clicked on your Amazon link to check the price of the Manfrotto Tripod and it sent me to the US Amazon site. I tried another link and it did the same.
OK, thanks Barrie. Mine went to the UK link, but the model is different. Maybe mine has now been taken off the market. This is where mine went ...
www.amazon.co.uk/Manfrotto-Lightweight-Element-Traveler-MKELES5BK-BH/dp/B01N079WTU/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=Manfrotto+tripod+lightweight&qid=1618951059&sr=8-3
Sir, I have CX 470. Can you suggest optimum settings for it? Regards
I would say much the same as the others. I set shutter at 1/50th and let the aperture deal with brightness. Sometimes it pays to slightly underexpose to avoid burned out areas. When walking around, I move the shutter to 1/100th sec. 50fps.
If there is little movement, don’t worry so much about shutter speed.
Sir, Can you explain why my streaming vidio quality is very poor when using Sony CX 405 camera. What will be the reasons... Connect to OBS via normal vidio capture..
I’m sorry, I have never streamed with it. Someone might come in and help though.
I just bought a cx405 and I want a lens hood for it. Does anyone know what kind of lens he has on it in the video?
The cx405 doesn’t have a thread to fit a filter onto. The lens is the standard lens it is sold with. It can’t be changed.
Hello! You seem to be a very knowledgeable chap. I'm looking for a Sony handycam to improve my youtube video quality. Can you recommend one that isn't too expensive? It's basically to film small reasonably quick RC cars in sometimes low light conditions (woods). A slomo feature would be nice, as would a wide angle lens. Sorry If this seems like a tall order, but I have very little knowledge in this area (as you can probably tell 😂). Thank you in advance!
Up to the cx625, the differences in quality are quite small really. It’s more to do with features. The ax53 is excellent but not cheap.
The problem with camcorders is the small sensor. They don’t do that well in low light. To be honest, I do wonder whether the Osmo Action 4 might be better for you. It has a wide angle lens and is better in low light due to its larger sensor. Much easier to carry around as well. It also has slow mo. Or do it yourself by using a high frame rate and slowing it down in your computer.
@@iancraig do you know what, I've just been looking at the dji action cameras. Was also looking at the gopro's as well, but they seem to have some issues with the newer stuff. I think you have solidified my next direction. 👍🙏
I get fantastic results from mine. If you look at my recent videos from Sandbanks (Just vlogs) they were all done on the Action. I was taking test footage down there for a shop video in different lighting conditions, so there are a lot of examples there. Sound is a lavalier directly into the camera.
@@iancraig I'm hearing good things about the action. I really appreciate your help. 👍
Hey I've been trying to buy the Sony CX450 for a while now but everywhere I've looked its been out of stock. Do you know why? And is there anywhere I can buy a new Sony CX450? You convinced me to buy one aha. Thanks!
Are you in the UK? Argos.
@@iancraig Yeah I live in the UK, I've tried everywhere. Amazon, Argos, Currys. The CX450 and all the other sony video cameras and video cameras made by other brands are all out of stock in those shops. I have no idea why. Argos won't deliver or allow me to collect the CX450 in my area for some reason. Not in stock in my local Argos and not available for delivery.
Oh yes .... you’re right. I had a look around. That’s a pity because the cx450 has an audio input and it’s not bad sounding with a lavalier.
Looks like only the 240, 405 and 625 remain and only the 625 takes a mic in.
@@iancraig I don't suppose you can get those Sony video Cameras anywhere can you? Have they taken the CX450 off the market or something?
It looks like the 450 is no longer around. Great pity because it took sound. The only cheap way in is to use a 240 or 405 with a Zoom H1n or Tascam DR05 I guess.
I often use a recorder but my software links the video and audio for me.
A very well explained course on Sony.I am very thankfull for your time and effort. Great words from an experienced guy. I always wanted to avoid chinese mobiles or things . After considering pocket i droped it because of no servicecenter in india. I am planning to do vlogging also.
T was wondering why people are not using camcoders any way i have ordered one. Its great in stabilization and output quality. I even used nokia 4.2 to shoot vlogs. but some over sharp images and white balance etc problems are there with cam. I hope to do great with new once. Can you just recommend me a setup rings of correct size for the cx405 with a good pair of monopod .
please include a small video on keeping it safe and cleaing the lens etc. I wish to use it atlest for 4 years or more with out any problems if everything goes well. I purchased it from indian Amazon. Thanks again .........
The cx405 has no filter thread. The cx450 does.
You can always stick a step up ring to the front though in order to attach filters.
@@iancraig thanks for the replay can you tell me the size of the step up ring . there are a lot in the amazon. T think it will help to get a good result .thankyou.
Just measure across the front of the lens in millimetres. I use these for filters and as a lens hood by putting a load of step ups on ....
www.amazon.co.uk/Concept-Stepping-Adapter-Step-Up-Step-Down/dp/B00JL4HGAI/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=37JN4IC7WKH2D&dchild=1&keywords=Step+up+rings&qid=1635158413&sprefix=step+up+rings+%2Caps%2C134&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUE5QlRRVzBPRkE3S1omZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTA4NTc2NzUyRTVDRVI5SDhNVFVQJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTA2NjU2NDgxOTRaQlRCQk5KWjMzJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==
@@iancraig thankyou for the info . Is it comes with a remote or is it aftermarket one .
No remote for it.
Please I want you to show me how to do correct bluer on soney HD handycam while using it to shoot your UA-cam videos
What is bluer? I think you mean blur? Bokeh? This is not so easy with camcorders. Set the exposure to aperture priority and open the aperture as far as it will go. This will speed up the shutter speed so an nd filter is useful on the lens to make sure movement looks smooth. Or else, just use it on static or slow moving subjects.
@@iancraig yes hero I mean blur sorry 😢 it was a mistake,I mean how to use soney hd handycam to blur your background while shooting your UA-cam video
@@iancraig I get you hero 🦸♂️ thanks 🙏 a lot, much love 💕
Ciao ho comprato una Sony cx 625 e mi trovo bene, che differenza c'è tra AVCHD e XAVC S HD? QUAL'è l'impostazione più alta?
Trovo AVCHD problematico con alcuni editor. Li rallenta, quindi uso sempre MP4. Le differenze di qualità sono minime.
@@iancraig ok grazie mille
can you make a video like this specifically sony hdr cx405
The settings I showed aren’t really specific to any camera and are pretty generic. The Sony menu systems are also pretty similar throughout the range.
Basically, 25 or 50fps. 50 if you are running around makes for a smoother video. In both cases, I use 1/50th second shutter. If I am running around a lot, with a lot of juddering, I raise the shutter to help stabilisation work, but actually, the stabilisation isn’t bad if you’re steady at 1/50th. You then get the same motion blur. I generally underexposed by 0.5 of a stop. In really bright weather, 1 stop.
If you are in USA, the 1/30 or 1/60 with 1/60th shutter for motion blur. (Actually, I tend to use 1/50th at 30fps)
The cx405 doesn’t have that much to adjust. It’s mostly designed for auto. White balance works the same way, and if I can, I set it myself as I showed on the video. Auto is ok though, but it dies veer towards blue sometimes I think so if I use auto, I take blue down a fraction.
Try not to go mad zooming in and out! The zoom is massive and it can get very wearing to watch. I turn off digital zoom and only use optical.
@@iancraig thanks. I set my camera to xavc s hd, 1080p, 60p and shutter speed at 1/125. I set it to 125 because I read online that the shutter speed should be double the fps. what do you think of my settings?
I use 60fps at 1/60th shutter. Gives similar motion blur to slower frame rates but is smoother at 60fps. To be honest, shutter isn’t quite as noticeable at 60fps so it’s not that critical at 1/120th or 1/60th. When running around maybe a bit faster but for times when I’m holding the camera still, I go back to 1/60th.
The 180 shutter rule is more critical for 24 and 25fps. Or if you are producing slow motion from 60fps where you want it to match with slow frame rates.
Try 1/60th and video something moving in front of the camera. The slower shutter can give a fraction more motion blur which is a bit nicer. Some people are more aware of it than others.
Gerald explains a lot here ua-cam.com/video/UPPSdCrqcFQ/v-deo.htmlsi=CQ-zJkrAlq7frVzE
Which is the better one, the 405 or the 450? Or are there better alternatives? Still worth buying in 2023?
I prefer the 450 because it has a mic input. Basically the same as the 405. At the price levels of these, I can’t think offhand how others compare. For better quality I use an ax53 but you pay a lot more for that.
These cheap cams aren’t ‘brilliant’ but they do sharpen up nicely in post. I shot a 12 part music series for kids using 3 Sonys at the same time. (So colours matched) i managed it on the 405 (b roll) 450 for side shots and the ax53 for main shots. They all performed really well and actually made setting up (during covid at home) very fast. No fiddling around with settings. Set up lights and mics, and all cameras on auto!
The series sold well to our customers and kept us going right through covid!!
I want to use a Sony camcorder for short films, will it work or is it not on that quality?
It’ll work but it depends what you’re doing it for. I watch my footage on a 55 inch tv. For anything serious I use a Canon mirrorless camera with a decent lens.
For films you really need a separate recorder because the sound on these probably won’t be good enough.
My biggest question is...
Can I continue filming in the same time if the camera is loading the battery?
The battery goes emty but i want continue filming, can I use a powerbank?
Is that bossible with sony camcorders?
It is possible, but honestly, a few batteries in your pocket are all you need. Camcorders go on for much longer than a DSLR. I think 90 minutes each so three batteries would give 4.5 hours.
thanks so much!
Hi! Thank you for the video and answering to comments. I have bought AX43 with almost the same specifications. I am planing to shoot football game in low light enviroment, stadium with not very good floodlights. If I choose to shoot from the middle of the pitch am I be able to get good video while zooming in the other side, or have to take position on the half where the action is (close to attacking goal)? And, is it better to shoot in 4K or in HD, can I make some slow motions (like a scorin goal) from the video with a some of the programs like HitFilm, or some other?
4k or HD is difficult to answer because you’re videoing football. HD gives you 60 or 50 fps whereas 4k has more pixels but just 30fps so not as smooth.
For sport, you might be better with HD at 50 or 60fps.
@@iancraig thank you for replaying and helping me.
Great info Ian. I could use some feedback. I tried to make a few adjustments on my Sony AX53 and could not reduce blown out whites very well. With most of the setting on auto, I first turned on Zebra, it showed me the blown out bits, I then played with the shutter speed and tried turning on AE shift, neither seemed to do much, I still had lots of zebra striping. The odd thing is, I was getting zebra stripes on Black, gray and white parts. I am shooting indoors with two LED COB type bulbs with a diffuser, in 4K,100mbps, 30fps. Any feedback would be appreciated. Thank you. I always shoot indoors and keep camera on tripod so my hands are free to review, pick and tinker on locks..
Hi Albert. Are you using a slow shutter speed? Or is everything set at auto?
I’d suggest fully auto exposure first to look at the zebras. Off the top of my head, I think there may be two levels of zebra: one at 70% (to monitor skin tone) and another at 100%. I use 100. Then you see the truly blow out areas. At 70%, anything above that will show zebras. I’m not at home to check mine to see whether the ax53 allows you to set the level where zebras show. I might be confusing it with the ZV-1 though.
If blacks are showing zebras, then it is really overexposed. Are you sure that the camera is on auto? I think it might be better for you to reset everything back to default and stay fully auto. If the picture is correct, then there is something wrong in one of the settings for sure.
Just had a thought ..... check spot meter is off. If that has been set previously for a dark area, then everything else will be overexposed.
@@iancraig Thanks so much Ian, I will run through all this when I get home. And yes, the AX53 does have zebra 70 and 100. I was using 70 to test settings.
Ok, Albert. 70% is used for skin tone. It will make anything over 70% will go into zebra.
But if blacks are showing zebras, something is definitely wrong. Over exposure could be caused by the spot meter. It’s difficult to over expose to be honest because the ax53 doesn’t have a fully manual mode.
Quite a lot of my settings are shown on this video so take a look. Where I am showing the viewing screen.
@@iancraig Thanks Ian. I put all settings on auto, selected 100 zebra and now there’s just a bit of stripes on white things in background.
That sounds about right, Albert. If the blown out bits are big or important, then use the AE shift. If not, leave it at that. The contrast range is a bit wide in spite of using a diffuser.
I generally slightly underexpose. If I see a lot of zebras, I lower the exposure, but then it is also quite important to check how deep anything black is. You don’t want to lose detail at the other end.
If you keep getting zebras with indoor lighting, it might need more diffusion or it’s a bit too bright.
It was useful thank you .... new sub
Thank you Maff