Panasonic AG-AF101 Full HD solid state AVCHD camcorder with micro four thirds CMOS sensor

If you’re a fan of the AG-HMC151 or the AG-HPX171 you’ll be right at home with this camera – it has the ergonomics and build quality of the HPX171 with the operational simplicity of the HMC151 menu structure.

Where does the camera sit in the market?  Is it a DSLR killer or is it a 35mm film motion picture camera replacement?  Well it’s neither!  Panasonic have very cleverly identified a market for a professional hybrid DSLR Video camcorder – essentially it’s the best of both worlds without breaking the bank!  Will it be used for broadcast production?  Absolutely – but it will need to fall in line with the codec bit-rate authorities through external recording devices!

Let’s start with the front of the camera – here we find a Micro-Four Thirds lens mount and single image sensor crammed full with 12.4 million pixels plus the all important optical low-pass filters to reduce the affects of aliasing and moire patterning.  If you’ve used a DSLR to shoot video you’ll know all about these side-e ffects when it comes to filming railings, roof tiles and fine-pin stripe shirts.  Another tick in the box against the DSLR offerings is the inclusion of optical ND filtering for filming in high-light environments.  Lens options from product launch are extensive – whether you opt for the more cost-effective Panasonic Lumix zoom or Olympus Zuiko lenses – or stretch that little bit further for a set of Zeiss Compact Primes CP.2 lenses.  Don’t be put off if you already own Arri PL, Nikon G or Canon EF lenses – third party adapters from MTF and Birger Engineering provide functional solutions.  One important note to remember is that the crop magnification factor for a full-frame 35mm designed lens is 2x on the camera– therefore a 35mm lens is 70mm!

What about the internal processing and connectivity?  Taken directly from their flag-ship broadcast products in order to help aid the reduction of rolling shutter is a high performance 18-Bit DSP for image processing.  When you add in to the mix the DRS (Dynamic Range Stretch) and 7 modes of Gamma you have a wealth of control over your images.   Professional connectivity such as HD-SDI and XLRs are provided to allow for “broadcast friendly” external recorders to be added to the AF101 or simply to accommodate wireless and boom microphones during audio recording with manual level control.  Please note there’s no downscaling of the video output during recording – that’s another tick!  If you decide to embrace this camera for broadcast applications then an external recorder is a must – any of the following solutions can be attached by the HDMI or HD-SDI interfaces – Atomos Ninja (ProRes), Convergent Design Nanoflash (MPEG-2 HD), Panasonic AG-HPG20 (DVCProHD/AVC-Intra) or the Cinedeck Extreme (CineForm/DNxHD).  One of the very few disappointing features of the AF101 is that the HD-SDI output is only 8-Bit 4:2:2 – in addition there is no in-camera control of external devices to ensure the recording is actual happening.

But, don’t dismiss the in-camera codec – utilising the latest MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 compression toolset (branded as AVCCAM by Panasonic) – in PH mode at 24Mbps the image quality is exceptional.  Yes, its 4:2:0 and yes, its Long-GOP based – but the internal processing of the camera and the quality of the hardware encoder ensure that the recorded image is very clean and almost motion artifact free.   Would it hold up to an extreme colour grade, intense graphics work and a couple hops on and off HDCAM SR before being squirted up and down the HD transmission path?  Not likely – but that’s not what its marketed to do!  Audio is not forgotten, so don’t panic – AF101 records two channels of 16-Bit 48kHz Uncompressed Linear PCM Audio.

I can hear you asking – it sounds too good to be true – bet it’s got that expensive P2 media in it?  Nope – it uses commoditised media in the form of SDHC Class 6 cards or the latest and greatest SDXC Class 6 cards.  Equip the camera with two 64Gb SDXC cards and your good to record for up to 12 hours in PH mode – just don’t forget to pack enough batteries!

Finally – is it usable and what about the Ergonomics?  The camera supports HD 720p, 1080i and 1080p, but beware -  there are no PAL or NTSC recording modes.  There are in-camera creative features such as Variable Frame-rate (12-50 fps) and Interval recording.  As with all large image sensor camera’s – focus and exposure are highly critical – the camera provides peaking, a focus assist bar, zebras, waveform/vectorscope and a colour 3.45-inch LCD panel to ensure you get the best you can from the camera.  The Viewfinder is no more than a framing tool – focus and true colour representation are impossible to monitor – professional external viewfinder solutions like the Cineroid help get around this flaw.  What’s missing?  Expanded Focus is a massive omission and probably the lack of a servo rocker to support zoom lenses.  Whilst the camera may look like a handheld camera – I can ensure you once you’ve loaded it with a lens, battery, wireless audio, LCD light and possibly an external recorder – a hybrid shoulder tripod solution is required!

Bang for the buck – the AF101 is right on the money and is backed by Panasonic’s 3 year warranty program so it’s hard to see why it’s not a sound solid investment.  Whether you’re a DSLR user introduced to video from stills photography by products such as the Canon 5D Mark II or an existing small camcorder owner used to bolting on a Letus or Pro35 DOF adaptor, this camera truly is the best of both worlds providing a usable professional solution at an affordable price.

Call us to arrange a hands-on demonstration.

IMPORTANT:  PLEASE NOTE THAT THE AG-AF101 IS SUPPLIED WITHOUT LENS

The Micro Four Thirds System Provides Rich Expression with a Wealth of Interchangeable Lenses.
The 4/3-type image sensor has about the same imaging area as that of 35mm cinema film and achieves stunning, film-like images. The short flange back distance enables the use of a wealth of interchangeable lenses, including cinema lenses.* In addition, the camcorder features high-performance image processing and correction functions designed exclusively for HD motion images.

AVCCAM — Functions and Specifications Refined Through Extensive Professional Video Use.
The AVCCAM HD recorder section has been improved and refined through extensive use in broadcasting and movie production. Superb image quality, extended recording time, variable frame rate function like the VariCam, the operating ease and mobility that you need for motion image acquisition.

World's First* to Adopt Micro Four Thirds
The first professional HD camera recorder to adopt the Micro Four Thirds standards. These standards were announced in 2008 as an extension of the Four Thirds standards for DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) cameras. Panasonic and some other manufactures have already released a number of digital cameras and interchangeable lenses based on the Micro Fourth Thirds standards. The "Four Thirds" name is derived from the 4/3-type (approx. 17.3 mm x 13 mm/ approx. 0.68 inches x 0.51 inches) image sensor. The size of the image sensor, the standardized lens mount developed for it, and interchangeable lenses designed exclusively for digital cameras form the core of the Four Thirds standards. These standards were established to offer an optimal solution for digital cameras, breaking loose the confines of film camera standards. In establishing the Micro Four Thirds standards, the flange back distance (the distance from the lens mount surface to the image sensor) was reduced by about half and the mount diameter was made about 6 mm (0.24 inches) smaller than that of the Four Thirds mount. The image sensor size is the same as that of the 4/3 type used in the Four Thirds standard. The Micro Four Thirds standards have made it possible to reduce the size and weight of cameras and lenses, and to achieve greater interchangeability of lenses together with video recording capability.

4/3-type MOS Image Sensor
The 4/3-type MOS image sensor has about the same imaging area* as that of 35mm cinema film. The depth of field and the focal range are also close to those of film cameras. With this sensor, you can record beautiful, shallow depth of field, film-like images. The MOS sensor has two control lines as compared to the three lines required by a conventional CMOS sensor, thus providing a larger light receiving area. This has achieved a high level of sensitivity rivaling that of a CCD sensor. Extensive noise reduction measures are also employed, such as embedded photodiodes isolated from noise sources and low-voltage operation. By guiding more light to the pixels, thecamcorder achieves a wide dynamic range and detailed gradation with minimal blocked shadows or blown highlights in high-contrast scenes, for true-to-life textures and rich colours. 

* The effective imaging area is trimmed to a 16:9 aspect ratio.

A Low-Pass Filter for High-Quality HD Motion Images
Optical low-pass filter is optimized for HD motion images and reduces the aliasing noise that often occurs in motion images captured by an image sensor with a high pixel density. In addition, the MOS image sensor is scanned at a high speed in order to minimize skew distortion.

High-Performance 18-bit DSP

Equipped with a high-performance 18-bit digital signal processor (DSP) for image processing. Optimized for HD video recording, the DSP handles various image rendering processes, such as dynamic range stretch (DRS), gamma, 12-axis independent colour correction* and detail enhancement, as well as conversion to HD/SD video formats − all with exceptional precision and high image quality.

*12-axis independent colour correction can’t be controlled manually by a customer.

Internal Optical ND Filter
Internal neutral density (ND) filter is essential for video recording. The dedicated dial on the camera body lets you adjust the setting in three steps (1/4ND, 1/16ND, and 1/64ND) with any type of lenses.

Dynamic Range Stretch Function
DRS recognizes the average brightness of highlight and shadow areas and then automatically adjusts the aperture and uses knee control to suppress blocking in the shadow areas. In scenes with mixed dark and light areas, DRS automatically provides a wider dynamic range with minimal blown highlights and blocked shadows.

7-Mode Gamma for Richer Gradation
Drawing on technologies developed for the VariCam, Panasonic has equipped the AG-AF101 series with advanced gamma functions that address seven different shooting scenarios and enhance your creative abilities. This includes the cine-like gamma, which produces the characteristic warm tone of film recordings.

AG-AF101 series Gamma Modes:

HD NORM: Suitable for HD recording.
LOW: Works to flatten out a high contrast scene.
SD NORM: Normal setting for SD (this was available in the DVX100 series).
HIGH: Expands the tone of dark parts and makes a brighter image. The contrast softens.
B.PRESS: Makes the contrast sharper than LOW
CINE-LIKE D: The Cine-Like mode shifted to prioritize dynamic range.
CINE-LIKE V: The Cine-Like mode shifted to prioritize contrast.

Advanced Image Adjustments:

• Colour setting with matrix table: Norm 1, Norm 2, Fluo and Cine-Like.
• Adjustable H detail level, V detail level, detail coring and skin detail.
• Adjustable chroma level, chroma phase and master pedestal.
• Adjustable colour temp: 2400K to 9900K (preset 3200K/5600K).
• Knee point settings: Auto, Low, Mid and High.
• Adjustable auto-iris level.

AVCHD PH Mode for the High Image Quality Required by Professional Applications
Camcorder uses the AVCHD recording format and also supports the high image-quality PH mode. AVCHD complies with MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 High Profile, the latest motion picture compression technology. Boasting a compression efficiency that is more than twice that of the MPEG-2 system (such as HDV), this advanced video file format delivers superb image quality and low data rates. The PH mode was developed for AVCCAM by Panasonic exclusively for high-quality professional video production. This mode boasts a maximum AVCHD bit rate of 24 Mbps (average: 21 Mbps) and records 1920 x 1080 full-HD images.

Uncompressed LPCM 2-Channel Recording for High-Quality Sound
The PH mode supports uncompressed 16-bit LPCM 2-channel digital audio recording for high-quality sound in addition to Dolby Digital 2-channel audio. The HA/HE mode employs Dolby Digital 2
-channel audio recording only.

Multi HD Format Compatibility
The AVCHD PH mode is compatible with multiple HD formats, such as 1080/60i, 1080/30p, 1080/24p and 720/60p. Additionally, the AG-AF101 series lets you select 60 Hz or 50 Hz to support HD
systems used around the world.

* Actual recording is at 60 Hz = 59.94 Hz, 30 Hz = 29.97 Hz, and 24 Hz = 23.98 Hz, respectively

1080p Variable Frame Rate Recording
The AG-AF101 series has inherited and further advanced the acclaimed functions of the VariCam that is widely used in producing movies, TV programs and TV commercials. The new Variable Frame Rate (VFR) function* supports full-HD (1920 x 1080) progressive mode. Armed with a 20-step undercrank (lower frame rate)/overcrank (higher frame rate) function, the camcorder is capable of producing cinematic images such as a 1/2.5x slow-motion effect and 2x fast motion effect when played in 24p mode.

* Cannot be played in 1080/60p mode. 720p VFR not supported. Class 6 or higher SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Card is required for VFR recording.

SDXC Memory Card Supported
Supports the new SDXC Memory Card. The SDXC Memory Card is a next-generation large-capacity data storage device with upgraded versions of the file system (FAT) and physical specifications of the SDHC Memory Card. Thanks to a large storage capacity, which exceeds the 32 GB limit of the SDHC Memory Card, the SDXC Memory Card can handle large data volumes of 48 GB or 64 GB. It also boasts a high maximum data transfer speed of 22 MB/s* and a wide operating temperature range of -25° to 85°C (-13°F to 185°F). The AG-AF101 series can also use the SDHC and SD Memory Cards. 

* The data transfer speed varies depending on the operating system of the SD-compatible devices. The indicated rate was measured at a maximum specification point specified by Panasonic.

Two Card Slots for Relay Recording
The active slot for recording can be switched, and the internal relay recording function enables continuous recording by automatically 
changing the recording card media. By using two SDXC Memory Cards, the AG-AF101 series can record up to 12 hours in PH mode or 48 hours in HE mode*. Video clips can be copied between cards
mounted in the two slots.

*When two 64-GB SDXC Memory Cards are used. The maximum continuous recording time is 12 hours regardless of the recording mode. A Class 4 or higher SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Card is required for
recording in PH or HA mode. For other recording modes, use a Class 2 or higher SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Card. (The use of a Panasonic SDXC Memory Card is recommended.)

SMPTE Time-Code Recording and Synchro Function
The built-in SMPTE time-code generator lets you select the Drop Frame/Non-Drop Frame and Free Run/Rec Run modes and preset. User bits are also provided. Connecting two cameras with a TC
preset in/out (video out) connector allows the slave camera, to synchronize with the master camera*.

*After synchronization, each camera’s time-code runs separately and not be guaranteed to match precisely.

Still Image Capture (Still Picture)
A frame can be captured from HD video as a still image equivalent to two megapixels (1920 x 1080).

* Still images cannot be captured during motion image recording or in Pre-rec mode.

Camera Metadata Recording
Camera settings for recording operation can be saved as metadata in a clip file. By loading a clip file, the saved settings can be immediately applied.

Diverse Recording Functions

• Clip thumbnail display: You can preview a clip and also quickly delete a clip from the thumbnail list displayed on the LCD monitor.
• Interval Rec: Records one frame at a time in set intervals (1 sec, 10 sec, 30 sec, 1 min, 2 min). Only in 1080/24p and 25p mode. Audio recording not possible.
• Pre-rec: While in standby mode, you can continuously store, and subsequently record, up to approx. 3 seconds. This helps to ensure that you always get the shot you want.
• Shot mark: Allows convenient OK or NG marking, and can be added to each clip during or after recording.
• Index: Scenes can be marked with up to 100 index flags per clip.
• Rec check: You can check the end of the most recently recorded clip with one-touch ease.
• Last clip delete: Only the most recently recorded clip is deleted with this one-touch function, adding practical convenience to everyday operation. It can be assigned as a User button function if desired.

SDI (24Psf) Output and Auto Rec
The HD/SD SDI output terminal can output HD signals, including 1080/24Psf, or down-converted SD video signals (selectable from the menu). The terminal also supports Auto Rec to enable backup recording in link with Rec Start/Stop when a Panasonic recorder equipped with the same function, such as the AG-HPG20, is used. Embedded audio is also supported.

*The 24PsF output recording is only possible on the AJ-HPM200 or other third party recorders which support 24PsF input.

HDMI Digital HD Output Terminal
Equipped with a next-generation HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) output terminal for digital transferring of high-quality HD video and audio signals.

* A separately purchased cable may be required for connecting the camcorder to a professional monitor via HDMI. 

XLR Input for Pro-Quality Audio
In addition to the internal high performance stereo microphone, the AG-AF101 comes equipped with two-channel XLR audio input terminals with a 48 V phantom power supply. Each channel can be selected from the internal microphone, external microphone or line input. Large, easy-to-use level dials are also provided.

Down-Converted SD Video Output
The camcorder has an internal down-converter so that it can output SD (480/576) signals from SDI, HDMI or VIDEO OUT. The 16:9/4:3 aspect conversion mode can be selected from three types 
(side crop, letterbox, squeeze).

* Side crop output cannot be selected when an SDI/HDMI output terminal is used.

Marker/Grid Display
The LCD monitor and viewfinder can display a safety zone marker of 90%, 4:3, 14:9, 1.85:1, 2:1 or 2.35:1, or a 3x3 grid similar to the one in a digital SLR camera.

Professional System Design

• Grip: The large grip is easy to hold and is also detachable. The grip allows comfortable use in any shooting situation.
• Handle: The large handle is designed for professional use. It has a shoe adaptor and threaded holes for mounting various peripheral accessories. The handle is also detachable.
• Sensor marker/measuring hook: This makes it easy to measure the distance from the subject.

Functions and Specifications Designed for Professional Use

• Scene file: Saves six sets of camera settings and allows for a quick change of settings.
• Mode check: Displays a list of the camera settings on the viewfinder and monitor.
• Zebra: Select any two levels from among 50% to 105%, in 5% steps.
• Colour bar: Outputs a colour bar signal.
• Remote terminal: Enables remote operation of iris, focus, Rec Start/Stop and index functions.
• USB 2.0: Type mini-B USB port for connection of a PC in DEVICE mode.
• Tally lamps: Provided on the unit's front and rear.

FILM CAM Mode for Movie Production
Features switchable FILM CAM and VIDEO CAM modes. In FILM CAM mode, the variable frame rate can be used. In addition, the synchro scan and shutter can be indicated and set with the opening angle, instead of seconds, while the sensitivity can be indicated and set in ISO, instead of dB. This makes operation easier for users who are familiar with film camera operation.

New Functions: Area Focusing and Area Iris Functions (Compatible lens only)
Using the newly provided function knob (cursor key), you can select a desired area in the frame and set it as a target zone for focusing, iris adjustment and YGET (brightness measurement). This new function facilitates the recording of images in which the subject is not in the centre of
the frame. In addition to the above three modes, there are two other modes: simultaneous focusing/iris adjustment and simultaneous focusing/YGET. You can select and set any of these five modes.

Focus Assist Function
Equipped with an HD focus assist function. The focus bar indicates the focus level and the focus in-red display shows the focus area. These two display functions help you to focus more smoothly. A face detection function is also provided, and area auto focus and 
area auto iris are possible.

Wide ISO Sensitivity (Gain) Setting Range
The sensitivity can be set between ISO 200 and ISO 3200 (in FILM CAM mode), or the gain can be adjusted between 18 dB and -6 dB (in VIDEO CAM mode). The 3-position (L, M, H) gain switch can be assigned with three desired settings for quick switching. The negative gain (-3 dB, -6 dB) is effective for reducing sensitivity and reducing noise.

Slow/Synchro/High-speed Shutter
The shutter speed can be set from a slow 1/2 sec to a fast 1/2000 sec in VIDEO CAM mode. The camcorder is also equipped with a synchro scan function to allow setting from 10° to 360° in 0.5° steps (including 172.8°) in FILM CAM mode. When combined with the variable frame rate, this function enables detailed settings for a blurred or time-lapse effect.

Simplified Waveform and Vectorscope Display
Waveform and vectorscope display functionsbuilt in. A single touch of the WFM key displays the waveform or vectors of the captured video signal on the LCD monitor

Large Viewfinder and LCD Monitor
The large, high-quality viewfinder (11.43 mm (0.45 inches), approx. 1,226,000-dot equivalent [852 x 480 x 3 (RGB)]) can be tilted up to a 90° angle. The variable angle colour monitor features a colour LCD panel (87.63 mm (3.45 inches), approx. 921,000 dots [1920 x 480]) with an aspect ratio of 16:9, and facilitates low-angle/high-angle shooting, viewing and menu setting.

Three User Buttons
Three user buttons are provided for one-touch operation of frequently used functions. Two buttons are located on the control panel, and one button is placed at the upper part of the grip handle. Each button can be assigned with any of the following 14 functions:

• INH: No assigned function
• REC CHECK: Recording check
• FACE DETECT: Face detection function
• FOCUS ASSIST: Displays edge in red
• CAPTURE: Records the image as a JPEG file on an SD card
• ATW: ATW (auto-tracking white balance) on/off
• ATW Lock: ATW lock on/off

• 1 x AG-AF101E camcorder body
• 1 x Battery
• 1 x AC adaptor / Battery charger
• 1 x AC power supply cable
• 1 x DC cable
• 1 x Wireless remote control and battery
• 1 x Viewfinder rubber eye cup
• 1 x Microphone holder & screws
• 1 x Microphone holder adaptor
• 1 x Cable clamper & screws
• Manuals
• CD-ROM

Documentation