Menu, Iris Adjustment Knob, ND Filter Knob, Gain

Press on the MENU button located on the control panel to access the camcorder's menu. Once activated, you can navigate through the menu by rotating the menu navigation wheel located at the rear of the housing. Depressing this wheel will allow you to enter sub menus and make menu changes. Press on the MENU button once again to exit.

IRIS ADJUSTMENT KNOB

You must first make sure that the iris is set to manual. The current aperture value (f) will be displayed in the viewfinder if the iris is set to manual. If not, press on the Iris button located on the panel behind the left grip. This will set the iris to manual, rotating the Iris knob CW or CCW will make the aperture value of the camcorder change.

ND FILTER KNOB

Use the ND filter knob to change from no ND filter to ND filter 1 or ND filter 2. The following procedure describes how to use this feature.

To increase the filter number:

Rotate the knob all the way CW without depressing it. Depress the knob and rotate CCW while looking through the viewfinder. Stop and let go of the knob when you have reached the desired setting.

To decrease the filter number:

Rotate the knob all the way CCW without depressing it. Depress the knob and rotate CW while looking through the viewfinder. Stop and let go of the knob when you have reached the desired setting.

GAIN

You can set the camcorder to one of its preset gain levels (H,M,L) by simply pressing on the Gain button located on the panel behind the left grip. Once activated, you can change its value in the gain setup sub menu via the menu button and menu navigation wheel.

SHUTTER

Pressing on the Shutter button located on the panel behind the left grip allows you to manually adjust and fix the shutter speed. Once depressed, use the menu navigation wheel to adjust and fix the shutter speed. Pressing on the Shutter button once again will return it to automatic adjustment.

HOUSING & CAMCORDER OPERATION

Control panel switch

Iris adjustment knob

ND filter knob

Menu navigation wheel

Iris Gain Shutter

HVR-Z1, HDR-FX1 specifications

The Sony HDR-FX1 is a pioneering high-definition camcorder that garnered significant attention upon its release in 2004. It is especially noted for being one of the first camcorders to offer true 1080i high-definition recording capabilities, catering to both amateur filmmakers and professionals alike. Equipped with a 1/3-inch CMOS sensor, the FX1 captures stunningly detailed images, ensuring that each frame is rich in color and clarity.

One of the notable features of the HDR-FX1 is its advanced imaging technology, including the use of Sony’s ClearVid sensor and a 3D Color Filter. This combination enhances the camera's ability to render vibrant colors and fine details, providing beautiful images even in challenging lighting conditions. The FX1 supports a 16:9 aspect ratio, allowing users to create cinematic productions with ease.

The camcorder also features a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens with a focal length of 5.4 to 64.8 mm (35mm equivalent: 40 to 480 mm), which provides excellent optical performance and versatility. The lens has a remarkable maximum aperture of f/1.6, allowing for great low-light performance and beautiful bokeh effects. The optical image stabilization system further enhances the shooting experience by minimizing the effects of camera shake, making it easier to capture steady footage.

Sony's HDR-FX1 adopts the HDV format for high-definition video recording, utilizing a standard MiniDV tape, which was innovative for its time. This allowed filmmakers to easily transfer footage to their editing systems without needing extensive additional equipment. Additionally, the FX1 features a built-in HDMI output, enabling direct connection to high-definition displays for detailed playback of recorded footage.

The camcorder includes a range of manual controls, such as focus, iris, and shutter speed, which provide users with the flexibility to fine-tune their settings. A 3.5-inch swing-out LCD screen allows for easy monitoring and composition, while an electronic viewfinder ensures accurate framing in bright conditions.

Overall, the Sony HDR-FX1 marked a significant milestone in the evolution of video technology, combining accessibility with professional features, making it a beloved choice among videographers and filmmakers looking to dive into the world of high-definition video. Its legacy continues to influence subsequent camcorder designs and remains a respected model in the realm of digital filmmaking.