Three Key Camera Subsystems
When comparing different video cameras, I like to think in terms of three subsystems that each massively impact the quality of the image that results.
- the lens(es)
- the sensor(s)
- the data encoding
Note that there are lots of other features that will distinguish one camera from another, but the three above are the key ones that directly affect the image.
The JVC GY-HD101E I just bought has the following:
- a prosumer-grade Fujinon 5.5mm-88mm zoom lens but interchangeable with other 1/3" bayonet lenses (1/2" or 2/3" with suitable adapter)
- 3x 1280x720 1/3" CCD sensors
- 720p (HD1) HDV (MPEG2 19.7Mbps, 4:2:0 chroma sampling)
I'll say more about what each of these means in subsequent posts. It's a pretty fascinating area of technology.
Comments (2)
James Tauber on Aug. 22, 2007:
Although with film, you could argue there is grain size.
But I still think there's a difference between the sensor and the encoding subsystem--particularly as there are cameras that have a live video out with different encoding than what's stored on tape.
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Last Modified: Feb. 27, 2006
Author: James Tauber
Joe Kotroczo on March 13, 2007:
One could add that in film cameras the sensor and encoding subsystem are functionally the same, because inherent in the recording medium.
The film (negative or reversal, black and white or color, etc.) is the sensor and the storage medium and it's type defines the "encoding".
I use "encoding" hesitantly, because in the case of film, there is sampling (frame rate = sample rate), but there is no quantization.