Canon XH-A1

[kwshaw1]

This is one of the main competitors to Sony HDV cameras for modern event videography. Advantages include an impressive 20X zoom range, built-in XLR plugs with good audio control options, extensive image quality controls, and a competitive price between the Sony FX1 and Z1U. Disadvantages are significant image noise in low light if you're not careful with the camera settings, a front-heavy lens, and possibly less accurate autofocus than the Sonys. All things considered this is a big step up from the Canon GL1/GL2 series cameras, which had smaller sensors and lacked professional features like XLR inputs.   

[kwshaw1]

So Hank, what do you think of your Canon cameras?

[HankCastello]

While I'm not yet ready to do a full-blown "review" on these cameras (we just got the A1 today), I can say that "step up" from GL2 does not do them justice.

The H1A is very impressive.  In features, options and performance, it just plain blows the Sony FX1 away.  I could see that in the first hour I played with it.

However, it is very front heavy, as you said.  In fact, it is just plain heavy, period.  Not bad on the shoulder with left hand supporting the lens, but trying to do any handheld moves is going to be rough.  A minute will just about do me in - and I work out a little.

The A1 has controls nicely placed and is much lighter. A bit lighter than the FX1, I think.  Low light performance seems good enough for nearly any ceremony (something I couldn't say for the FX1) and, as you noted elsewhere, lights should be used when conditions get dim at receptions, etc.

I am happy with my choice and we will likely be shopping for a second A1, so we have three matching cameras.  I bought a consumer Canon hi-def cam to use as "honeymoon camera" loaner and for an extra camera for wedding shoots.  We'll probably keep the FX1 as an extra camera also, unless we get a good offer for it.

[HankCastello]

Side-note on the Canon H1A - it is making a BIG impression on clients!  We just did a corporate shoot in Dallas this week and their regular guy who shoots with a GL-2, will not likely be invited back.  I'm sure it was our experience and professionalism that really did it, but it was that big camera that made the first impression and opened their minds to the possibility that THIS shoot might be more professional than the previous ones.

Two other clients we saw this week - the first thing out of their mouths was comments on the H1A shoulder-mount Canon.

[kwshaw1]

Sounds like you're referring to the XL-H1, rather than the XH-A1. A big camera can apparently make a good impression, but as you say your professionalism was no doubt a part of that.