Panasonic

HC-MDH2 HD Video Camera

AVCHD Shoulder Mount Camcorder

The HC-MDH2 AVCHD Shoulder Mount Camcorder from Panasonic is designed to record SD and HD video that is compatible with PAL standards. It supports Full HD 1080p 50, using AVCHD version 2 compression at 28 Mb/s. It also shoots 1080i 50 recording at 24 Mb/s, as well as higher compression rates enabling longer recording times. The camera can also record SD footage, so it integrates into an SD or HD workflow. This makes it an option for those who are not yet ready to transition to HD but want to be able to use the same camera once they do.

The camcorder uses a 1/2.33" MOS sensor that has been designed with a thinner wiring layer, which allows the sensor to capture more light for a better low light image with low noise. Panasonic's Crystal Engine Pro image processor converts the info from the sensor to a viewable image. The camera features a 20x optical zoom and 50x intelligent zoom, which uses algorithms to produce a digitally zoomed image with minimal artifacts.

The camera features built-in image stabilisation that operates in 5-axes, compensating for vertical, horizontal, forward and back tilt, and panning motions that might otherwise be distracting to your audience. It also features a level function, where the camera corrects shots that are not horizontally level. An Intelligent auto mode allows the camera to select the appropriate settings to capture your image, however, you can choose to manually control focus, zoom, iris, white balance, and shutter speed. An illuminated ring at the base of the lens glows to indicate the status of the camera, either blue for stand-by or red for recording. Alternatively, the illuminated ring can be turned off, allowing you to record surreptitiously.

The camera comes with an eyepiece viewfinder for a traditional ENG approach to shooting, but you can also use the built-in 3.0" touchscreen LCD instead. It records to available SD/SDHC/SDXC media, and features 2 x media card slots, allowing either relay or simultaneous recording to create an instant back up. A built-in USB2.0 port also allows you to connect a portable hard drive, and copy footage from the camera to the hard drive without using a computer. This function requires the camera to be powered via the AC adapter.