Setting the WB White Balance, Gain | Panasonic P2HDXAG-HPX500

Setting the WB (White Balance)�

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(1)Set the WHITE BAL switch to A or B. Separate settings are created for the A and B channels (e.g.: Cloudy/Fine, Outdoor/Indoor).

(2)Place a grayscale chart (see right) or a white piece of paper in the same location as the setting for your shot and zoom in so that it completely fills the screen.

(3)Adjust the lens aperture. Use the normal Auto Iris function to set the aperture.

(4)Push the AWB switch upwards to set the white balance.

(5)Push the AWB switch downwards to set the black balance (BB).

(6)Push the switch up again to set the white balance more precisely.

WB adjustment technique

When setting the WB, one can experiment with disrupting the color temperature and giving the image a warmer feel by selecting warmer color. Some high-grade inkjet papers have a small amount of blue mixed in, in order to bring out the white more, and it can be interesting to line up a few different types of "white" paper and observe the differences in hue.

(Another trick is to cover the lens with a white.)

Flange Back = Back Focus = Rear Focus

Because cameras such as the AG-HPX500 that use B4 mounts are designed to allow easy lens removal, the distance from the mount to the light- incident surface of the CCD (the "flange-back" distance) sometimes differs slightly depending on the camera (or lens) used. So if you change the lens- camera combination, the back focus will need to be adjusted. If the back focus is incorrect, images will not be correctly focused for either macro shots or telephoto shots. Adjust the flange back (F/B) distance using a chart such as the one attached.

Gain

Adjust the gain when shooting at outdoor locations, or other places where the brightness is outside the standard range. The toggle switch on the side of the camera has three sensitivity settings assigned standards of 0db / +6db / +12db, but it is possible to change each number individually, shifting according to the lens one is using.

The ?12db setting gives a grainy image, and is rarely used. When possible, it is best to assign a value of +9dB instead.

Selecting a tripod

It is assumed that the AG-HPX500 will rarely be swung around freely in the manner of the AG-HVX200, and even when shooting the same scene, the AG-HPX500 has different requirements. It may be necessary to set Gamma, to adjust the black level to boost reproduction of dark areas, and during extremely slow zoom-in/zoom-out, or for simple fixes, especially with interval shooting (see p. 15), a tripod allowing firm positioning and very smooth movement is a necessity. Compared with the AG- HVX200, it is a larger camera both in terms of chassis and in terms of mass, and a suitable tripod must be selected or it will be unstable.

Stable picture quality can be obtained by selecting a tripod by a well-known maker, such as the Sachtler System 18, the Vinten Vision 11, or a comparable tripod.

P2HDXAG-HPX500 specifications

The Panasonic P2HDXAG-HPX500 is a state-of-the-art digital cinema camera that has been designed for professional filmmakers and broadcasters looking for high-quality video production. This camera is part of Panasonic's renowned P2 HD range, which is known for its reliability and superior performance. The HPX500 is particularly favored for its versatility in various shooting environments, making it an excellent choice for documentary filmmaking, event coverage, and corporate videos.

One of the standout features of the HPX500 is its high-definition recording capability. It supports both 720p and 1080i resolutions, utilizing the Advanced Video Codec High Definition (AVC-HD) format. This allows users to achieve stunningly sharp images and rich colors, providing a cinematic experience that elevates the quality of their projects. Furthermore, the camera can record in full HD at 1920 x 1080 pixels, ensuring that every detail is captured with clarity.

The camera employs a three 1/3-inch CCD sensor configuration, which significantly enhances its sensitivity to light. This results in superior low-light performance, enabling filmmakers to shoot in challenging lighting conditions without compromising image quality. Additionally, the HPX500 incorporates a sophisticated image processing engine that contributes to its excellent color reproduction and dynamic range.

Another notable technology featured in the HPX500 is the integrated P2 card system. This allows for immediate, high-speed recording directly onto the P2 memory cards, providing a reliable and efficient workflow. The cards offer robust storage capacity and exceptional data transfer speeds, which are crucial for high-definition video shoots. Moreover, the camera supports dual card slots, enabling simultaneous recording for backup or extended media management, which is vital for live event coverage.

The ergonomic design of the HPX500 ensures that it is user-friendly, even during extended shooting sessions. It features adjustable viewing angles and a comprehensive set of manual controls that empower operators to make quick adjustments on the fly. The camera also has multiple connectivity options, including HD-SDI, allowing for seamless integration with existing production equipment.

In summary, the Panasonic P2HDXAG-HPX500 is a powerful digital cinema camera equipped with advanced technologies that cater to the needs of professional filmmakers. With its high-definition recording capability, enhanced low-light performance, robust P2 card system, and user-friendly design, the HPX500 stands out as a reliable choice for high-quality video production across various genres.