4K camcorder. device overview
For many people, a video camera is a kind of “relic of the past”. Many people remember rather large-sized gadgets, which recorded information on a large videotape (more modern models recorded on a Microcassette). With the development of technology, the mass of the device decreased, it became more and more compact. Over time, more modern action cameras have significantly replaced the once common camcorders. However, there are still many people who remain faithful to the traditional video camera. Unfortunately, fewer and fewer camcorders are produced (due to falling demand), but interesting gadgets are on sale. This article will look at the 4K camcorder. an overview of popular models, features, as well as other analogues of this technique.
Pros of a 4K camera
A 4K camcorder has several advantages over an action cam or a smartphone:
- Better optics.
- High quality shooting.
- Ability to connect external microphones.
- Zoom availability.
- advanced image stabilization system.
- LCD screen.
- Ability to display recording on a television screen.
The camcorder gives you the opportunity to feel like a real cameraman. Camcorders have become lighter and more compact. Flash memory replaces DVDs and bulky videotapes.
Important! It cannot be categorically asserted that it is a video camera. this is yesterday. For example, anniversaries or weddings should be filmed with a video camera. Using a camera, action camera or, even worse, a smartphone, we risk getting bad sound, background noise, shaky images or disappointment when viewing.
Consider the rating of the most popular video cameras.
Panasonic HC-V760
Camcorder from “PanaSonyk” is considered to be one of the best and most popular:
- The model has an optical 20x optical zoom type and a 4-drive lens system.
- The camera uses a 1 / 2.3 “BSI MOS sensor, which has proven itself in shooting.
- There is a built-in image stabilizer. As practice shows, he copes with his tasks perfectly. In the shaking picture when shooting, you can forget.
- There is a function that Freezes the frame. This is useful when shooting distant subjects.
- The weight of the device is 350 g.
- Numerous settings are available to produce professional quality images.
Benefits:
- Good zoom.
- High-quality sound and picture.
- Manual focus.
Canon Legria HF R706
Important! There are thirty-eight automatic modes for different types of shooting. The camcorder has a small size, a convenient menu, and provides excellent shooting quality.
Benefits:
- Excellent sound and picture quality.
- Light weight.
- Quality stabilizer.
Minuses:
- Poor low-light performance.
- Not very reliable battery mount.
Sony Handycam HDR-CX900
Camcorders from Sony. real market leaders. Of course, these gadgets cannot be called cheap, but for professional filming they are. exactly what you need.
Important! Any video captured with this camera looks like it is the work of a professional cameraman. However, this is. not a pick-and-shoot gadget. You need to know what settings to set, know what exactly to do to get a good shot.
Benefits:
- ZEISS optics used.
- Backlit Matrix.
- Good picture and sound quality.

Minuses:
- You must be able to use, understand the settings.
Sony HDR-CX405B
A review of 4K camcorders would be incomplete without this manufacturer’s equipment. A budget camera without unnecessary “bells and whistles”, with a low price and adapted for a novice user. Optical zoom in cameras 30x digital. up to 350 Image quality is excellent.
Important! One battery charge lasts about an hour and a half of recording.
Benefits:
- There are two slots for memory cards.
- Light weight.
- Ease of use.
- Wide angle lens.
Minuses:
- Can’t connect external microphone.
- Joystick control.
JVC Everio GZ-R415
An extremely reliable device that combines ruggedness with excellent image quality. The 4K camera rightfully takes its place in the review, as it is waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, equipped with a 40x optical zoom. The gadget has a nice modern design.
Important! This camera. a great option for relaxing in a pond. No splashes can spoil it.
The camera has built-in Konica Minolta lenses. The menu is convenient, the battery is designed for 5 hours of shooting.
Benefits:
- Water resistance.
- High quality optics.
- Durable power supply.
Important! As for the cons, users are silent about them. It looks like they just exist.
PANASONIC HC-VX980EG-K: 4K video camera review
Perhaps it is. one of the best 4K camcorders, which has firmly entered into use. The camera has an interesting feature: you can shoot with a smartphone and transfer the image to the camera.
The advantages of the device include:
- UltraHD Shooting.
- Convenient menu.
- Leica optics.
- Bright display.
Important! Of the shortcomings, users call, of course, the High price and low-power zoom.
Video
The given rating will allow you to choose a camcorder that fully meets your needs. Means. and the captured frames will remind you of the pleasant moments of your life for a long time.
How to set up camera on Samsung
“How to set up a camera on Samsung?” the question is asked by most of the users of Samsung phones. Modern smartphones are replacing soap cameras with quality front and rear cameras. Developers regularly add new features to the Camera application, but often setting up the photo mode becomes problematic.
To create high-quality images, you need to set up your smartphone camera. All methods are described below.
Basic camera functions on a Samsung smartphone
In the electronics market, there are many models of smartphones from the Samsung brand, each of which is distinguished by the quality of creating images. However, all telephones have a list of basic settings to configure. This allows users to create quality images. Here’s how to set up the camera on your Samsung phone.
Flash (3 modes)
All modern smartphones have 3 flash modes. “ON”, “OFF”, “AUTO”. When the latter is activated, the system automatically selects whether to use additional lighting or not. This allows you to reduce shooting time and get a better picture.
Timer
The option allows the user to activate a timer to take a photo. After pressing the “Capture” button, the system starts the countdown, after which the picture is taken. Values of 2, 5, 10 seconds are often available.
How to set up Samsung camera with HDR
The HDR option edits the difference between highlights and shadows. When using the function, the user receives an image with the maximum parameters of realism. The system automatically takes 3 pictures with different exposures, after which it generates images into one photo. The picture quality is significantly increased.
Additional effects for photos. How to choose photo size
The size of the image depends on the quality of the photo, but the photo file will also acquire a larger size. Reducing the size of the picture results in a smaller file size, but the image quality also deteriorates significantly. Keep values as high as possible for good shots.
Video size
The function is the same as for taking photos. The higher the video resolution, the more memory on the device The file occupies. On modern models of Samsung smartphones, users have the ability to shoot videos in high definition 4K.
Aspect Ratio
The Aspect Ratio displays the horizontal to vertical aspect ratio of the image. For example, 16: 9 refers to widescreens that are 1080p. In the settings, you can also set the parameter to a ratio of 4: 3 or 1: 1.
Autofocus Tracking AF
The function allows you to highlight the subject on the camera while shooting. To do this, you need to click on the screen in the desired area. The camera will automatically focus on the subject regardless of its movements or movements of neighboring objects. This option is used on expensive DSLR cameras, however, it is also supported by Samsung smartphones.
Video stabilization
When shooting video, stabilization is required to get rid of the effect of shaking hands, wind and other sudden movements that occur during the process of creating material. Stabilization activation allows the user to get smooth footage without blur or loss of quality. It is worth noting that the options “Video stabilization” and “Autofocus Tracking” often cannot be enabled at the same time.
Grid
The grid makes it possible to avoid uneven horizons in the photograph. The Grid is often useful when shooting mountains, landscapes, portraits, etc.
Voice control
The user can record keywords on the recorder, when using which the system will automatically start the process of creating a picture. The following words are often used: “Cheese”, “Smile”, “Record video”.
Mode Button
Added a settings section to the camera section where the Mode button is located. The function allows you to switch to the professional shooting mode “PRO”.
What parameters can be edited in PRO mode:
- Brightness;
- ISO;
- White balance;
- Focus length;
- Effects and other values needed to improve image quality.
The “AUTO” function is often available, which automatically selects the value for specific shooting conditions.
Camera setup on Samsung S10
In the Samsung S10 smartphone, the developers have added new functions for the camera, which allows you to increase the image quality. Below are 5 tips on how to set up your updated camera.
Ultra-wide photos
The Galaxy S10 and S10 have added a third camera to the rear. This makes it possible to create ultra-wide images, which is a necessary condition in certain situations.
To activate the option, you need to name it on the icon of three trees, which is located above the shooting and mode selection buttons.
A second front camera with an ultra wide angle function is also available. To enable you need to click on the icon with two trees.
Scene Optimizer
The function allows you to create a high-quality picture in poor lighting conditions and complete darkness. The system activates the flash if necessary.
To enable the option, you need to go to the camera settings, click on the “Scene Optimizer” item and move the slider to the activation mode.
Shooting tips
The system automatically prompts the user what are the best parameters to change and what functions to activate in order to get the highest quality image.
Live focus
The system, when using portrait mode, highlights the person, blurring the rest of the area. You can also use the bokeh option for the background of the picture. Filter type and intensity can be edited.
To view all the additional features, you need to go to the “Live Focus” section and view all changes to the photo using filters.
The image can always be changed in the “Gallery” section.
Editing Available Camera Modes
The Galaxy S10 and S10 have added new shooting modes, between which you can switch and edit them. To scroll through modes, you need to use a swipe left or right.
How to turn your smartphone into a webcam? Using your smartphone as a webcam. how and why?
There are situations in which there is an urgent need to turn on the webcam, but it either produces a video of poor quality, damage, or is completely absent. In the light of recent events, this problem has become especially urgent. A webcam may be needed for distance learning or remote work.
If the built-in webcam installed on the laptop is broken, but there is simply an external camera, a modern smartphone will help to solve this problem. For this, there are many third-party applications and utilities, which will be discussed further.
Using your smartphone as a webcam. overview of available solutions
The easiest option in the absence of a high-quality webcam. installation of specialized software. It should be noted that it will need to be installed both on a PC or laptop, and on a smartphone. Here is a list of applications that will help you transform a modern smartphone into a webcam:
- Ivcam.
- Epoccam.
- IP Webcam.
- IP Camera Adapter.
- Droidcam.
Ivcam. advantages, disadvantages, features
The iVCam application is installed on both user devices, and then, thanks to a USB cable or Wi-Fi connection, the smartphone starts to function as a webcam. If desired, you can lower or increase the video quality, adjust the sound and the number of frames per second.
- High quality and low ping.
- Intuitive user interface available in Russian.
- You can connect several necessary devices to your computer at once.
- Supports all the most popular formats, up to 4K.
- You can use any camera installed in the smartphone (main, front, wide-angle, etc.).
- Almost all mobile device camera functions are available: flash, focus, effects, etc.
The disadvantages include:
- Watermark that overlaps part of the image.
- Stable operation of the application is guaranteed only if the user device is running on the iOS platform.
- Availability of advertising.
- With Wi-Fi connection, there are often problems with FPS, and when connected via USB, everything works much more stable.
- Too many restrictions in the free version of the application.
In addition to the image, this application perfectly transmits sound, so the smartphone can also be used as a microphone. In addition, you can take pictures and record videos while chatting.
Epoccam. advantages, disadvantages, features
The main feature of this program is that it is supported on both Windows and macOS. Using this software, you can interact with a webcam in Zoom, broadcast on Twitch and many other platforms.
- The connection is established automatically.
- You can use both the main and front camera of the mobile device.
- User devices can connect up to 6 meters away.
- You can use your smartphone as a wireless microphone.
- There are problems with establishing a connection.
- Ping moments are very high.
- Often does not work on Samsung Galaxy and Honor smartphones.
- Availability of advertising.
IP Webcam. advantages, disadvantages, features
With this software you will be able to broadcast in real time on various platforms. People often use this program as a CCTV camera.
- If necessary, you can display the date and time, as well as the status of the battery.
- Can record videos in various formats.
- This program is compatible with other applications.
- When using the free version of the application, a watermark is superimposed.
- Lots of advertising banners in the free version of the app.
- Many users have problems accessing applications such as Zoom or Skype.
IP Camera Adapter. advantages, disadvantages, features
IP Camera Adapter. it is a utility that is installed on the user’s computer. It is compatible with the “IP Webcam” application described above for smartphones.
- Ability to use a webcam using mobile internet and Wi-Fi.
- You can customize the sound, quality and orientation of the camera.
- It is possible to record video and audio in various formats.
- Date and battery status can be displayed.
- You can use your smartphone as an IP camera.
- You cannot connect using a USB cable, only a wireless connection is available.
- If you use the free version of the app, the video will be watermarked.
Droidcam. advantages, disadvantages, features
This application will help you quickly transform your mobile device into a webcam. You will be able to video conferencing and broadcast on various platforms such as Twitch and YouTube. In addition, using this application, you can use your smartphone as an IP camera.
- Both Wi-Fi and USB connection can be used.
- The app can run in the background.
- Intuitive user interface.
- Video recording with sound.
- Advertising in the free version of the application.
- 720p quality is only available in the paid version of the application.
- In the free version of the application, you cannot use flash, focus, zoom and other functions of the camera of the mobile device.
How to use similar solutions?
All such applications work according to the same principle. The software is installed on both user devices (the mobile version is downloaded from the Play Store or App Store, and the desktop version from the official website) and then launched. Next, you need to make sure that both the computer and the smartphone are connected to the same network. If so, the devices will automatically recognize each other and offer to connect.
If automatic recognition did not occur, ip-addresses will be displayed on one of the connected devices, which will need to be manually entered on the other device to establish a connection. After that, you can make the necessary settings and start working.
Tips and conclusions
A high-quality webcam can come in handy at any time, especially if a person is on distance learning or working remotely. There is no point in spending money on an expensive webcam if you have a modern smartphone at hand. It is enough to install one of the applications discussed in this article, and you can start working.
Review of Sony Xperia 1. flagship with a top processor and 4K screen
Atypical device with a 21: 9 aspect ratio and cinema software.
Specifications
colors | Black, purple, gray, white |
display | 6.5 inches, 1644 × 3840 pixels, OLED |
CPU | Seminanometer Snapdragon 855 (1 × 2.84 GHz Kryo 485 3 × 2.42 GHz Kryo 485 4 × 1.78 GHz Kryo 485) |
GPU | Adreno 640 |
RAM | 6 GB |
built-in memory | 64/128 GB microSD support up to 512 GB |
cameras | Back. 12 MP (main) 12 MP (telephoto) 12 MP (ultra wide angle). Frontal. 8 megapixels |
SIM card | Two slots for nanoSIM (one hybrid with microSD) |
Wireless interfaces | Wi-Fi 802.11 a / b / g / n / ac, Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX, GPS, NFC |
connectors | USB Type-C |
Unlocking | By fingerprints, PIN |
operating system | Android 9.0 |
Battery | 3330 mAh, fast charging supported (18 W, USB Power Delivery 2.0) |
Dimensions | 167 x 72 x 8.2 mm |
Weight | 178 g |
Equipment
The box contains only the required minimum of a smartphone, an adapter with a USB Type-C cable and an adapter from USB Type-C to minijack.
Appearance and ergonomics
The Sony Xperia 1 is sold in four colors: black, purple, sir and white. We got a gray smartphone. The color is dull and subtle, not silver and NOT metallic.
The back panel is glass, the frames are metal. In terms of tactile sensations, the smartphone is excellent: moderately weighty, it is pleasant to hold it in your hand.
The first thing that immediately catches your eye. elongated shape. Looks great, but long, like a TV remote control, the smartphone does not fit comfortably in every .
The next feature. the right edge filled with different things. From top to bottom there are: the volume key, the fingerprint sensor, the power and camera buttons. The left side of the smartphone is empty. Below. speaker hole and USB Type-C input.
Above. slot for nanoSIM. Removable without a paper clip.
Declared protection class. IP65 / 68. This means that the smartphone can be taken out in the rain and spilled on it.
Sony is showing character again: The Xperia 1 is NOT like any other model on the market or the company’s previous devices. And this is the smartphone that you can glance at and say: “Sony made it exactly.” Design trends from the outside do not seem to get here: the company comes up with devices itself, and it does the right thing. It seems that the cutouts in the screen and vertical modules in the corner of the rear panel simply would not go to them.
Screen
The display is contrasty, detailed and perfectly calibrated. In some scenarios, he DOES NOT get enough brightness, but this is not critical.
The Xperia 1 has bezels, and they suit him. Sony showed that you can make a stylish smartphone, rather than filling the entire bezel with a screen.
The company has made serious bets on performance. This is not only 4K resolution and HDR, but also less clear specifications: 10-bit color depth, support for image remastering technology, wide ITU-R BT.2020 color space and DCI-P3 with D65 illuminator. All this sounds great, but does not affect the experience of using the smartphone in any way. The screen here is perceived as a flagship, but how to use its technical bells and whistles and whether it is necessary. unclear. Perhaps it will be useful for mobile photographers and a videographer (we will touch on the features of video shooting).
With a 21: 9 screen ratio, it is convenient to watch suitable content, but there is one caveat. Almost all content is on the internet. unsuitable. Most videos will be displayed with either no top and bottom or empty margins on the sides. But here the split-screen function can really come in handy. Her lovers note that it is convenient to use it even with a messenger with a keyboard.
Xperia 1 sound is one of the best that smartphones give out in 2019. If only because it’s in stereo. It’s Convincing as Convincing as Smartphone Sound Can Be.
There is a trick for everyone. mode “Dynamic vibration”. With it, the smartphone vibrates with different strengths depending on the sound volume.
Camera
Three lenses are responsible for shooting: the main, ultra-wide-angle and telephoto lenses. The latter only works in good light. in the dark, the main camera with dill turns on. The ultra-wide-angle lens here has a pronounced fisheye effect, which is noticeable when shooting up close. Here are the photographs taken in the sun: first there is a frame taken with an ultra wide-angle lens, then with the main camera, then with a telephoto lens.