Video basics and modern digital cameras

Last updated:- 29th April 2024

Introduction.

I decided to invest more time in videography with Olympus M43 cameras after an increased interest in my introductory article on videography. My articles discussing image sensors, digital cameras, and subjects like exposure also formed a strong foundation for exploring the video creation process with M43 cameras. This and future articles are written for those who are new to videography.

We all appreciate the difference between a Toyota Aygo and a Porsche 911. They are profound when driving fast on a German AutoBahn. One often assumes the differences between cameras are similar when listening to YouTube presenters. For example, one of my articles revealed relatively small differences between sensors with up to 20 times pixel area variances. We, unfortunately, live in a world where folks like to exaggerate about digital cameras, video specs, and sensor sizes.

The Panasonic G100 has become an exciting hybrid camera amongst M43 photographers...

My wife and I transferred our VHS video collection onto DVD. We enjoy watching them with our son and his family. Imagine your grandchildren see their father learning to ride a bicycle on an old VHS video. I never experienced the same fun recording and watching videos on my mobile phone. There was something special about making memories about the family with my VHS video camera. The new Olympus E-M5 II was exciting and a huge inspiration when Olympus launched it in 2015. I made many short videos with my DJI Phantom P3, the Olympus EM5 II, and Premier Elements.

Did you own a VHS? I like to see marketers re-focus on consumer segments?

Modern marketing has become a window into the so-called "perfect" world. A world where cows don't fart, and everyone uses 8K hybrid cameras. One can't help asking if manufacturers gave up on casual video creators or purposely ignored them. Eager to learn more, my enthusiasm faded as I watched YouTubers crying for new menus and more specs. My E-M5 II had to have 4K, and Premier Elements was no longer good enough. Next, I needed a 6K mirrorless camera, 8 stops of IBIS with no crop, autofocusing like Sony or Canon, 4.2.2 10-bit (Pro-Ress RAW), mic plus headphone ports, and a host of LOG profiles plus LUTs before I could even start thinking about my next film project. 

This short video illustrates the correct behavior in a "perfect" world...

Olympus EM1 III with the 75mm f1.8 lens - ISO1250, f4.5, 1/15 - Enhanced Raw converted in Workspace.

Another option is to simply return to basics...

Taking a step back, one quickly realizes how accurately the Olympus Imaging Business targeted hobby and casual filmmakers. Cameras like the original EM5 and EM1 continue to fill that gap as capable photography cameras while helping those developing their videography skills. Take a moment and list the main video differences between Olympus M43 cameras from 2012 to 2024. 

It's, therefore, critical to familiarize yourselves with the basics of videography before purchasing your next 8K hybrid FF mirrorless camera. For example, many photographers think "hybrid" means two systems in one camera body. Many photographers also assume the image signal path from the scene to the saved recording changes from photography to videography.

Study this video for a detailed explanation of the illustration below.

What are the differences between photography and videography? Considering Step 1 (above), the same principles of saturating the sensor or improving the SNR apply. The basics of managing video quality and dynamic range while capturing more tonal data are the same. The main difference is how we manage the 4 exposure variables in video mode. Looking at Step 2, the camera's processing of the image signal does not change from photography to videography. The main difference is Olympus added more options like the Flat or OM-400-Log to tweak the camera's Gamma (Tone) Curve. Looking at Step 3, the main difference is the file format creators select for video or photography.

The above illustration also helps us with V-LOG profiles and "Color Grading." For example, when filming in V-LOG, one needs an LUT to convert the recording back to the REC 709 display format. Color grading is similar to image editing or creating a specific look and feel for your final video...

The Olympus Pen F and E-P7 enable us to create "Flat" video (exposure) profiles plus "Color Grade" in the camera.

We will explore the following in this series about videography:

1. A short overview of the Olympus M43 menu selections for video.
2. What does one typically need to create videos with M43 cameras?
3. We will focus on tips and techniques when recording video clips.
4. Basic principles of taking video clips and creating/editing a video.

Olympus EM1 III with the 45mm f1.8 lens - ISO1250, f3.5, 1/25 - The Fuji XT5 is a great photography and filmmaking camera...

Why do I believe crop sensors are perfect for filmmaking?

We need to discuss the segmentation of the filmmaking market. Camera manufacturers neglected to view mobile phones as competitive products. This resulted in a singular and not segmented consumer focus, as each new camera has to be a "better" Pro Camera. For example, list the 3 main benefits hybrid cameras have over mobile phones. Consider the basic to intermediate G100. When launched, this small hybrid was highly criticized because reviewers and promoters could not position the G100 in the "pro" segment or properly evaluate its scope of applications. The G100's acceptance increased when the target segment discovered it in the used markets. Imagine the possibilities of a new G100 hybrid camera with the processing capacity of an iPhone 14 or 15?

See these discovery videos of the Panasonic G100. Link 1, link 2.

The above illustration is only an educated guess of the most likely market situation...

Don't let YouTube "Pro Talk" or social media promoters distract you. M43 (crop) cameras are perfect for filming. Olympus M43 cameras are great for video projects and those returning to filming with M43 mirrorless cameras. I will discuss various Olympus cameras and lenses in this series...

What's interesting about the video below is how sailors select the best tools for the job. They will use drones, GoPros, mobile phones, and hybrids like the Olympus EM5 III. Each of them offers unique functionality and applications that enable videographers. An interesting approach, right..?

An example of creating lasting memories with different cameras. See the EM5 III in the video...

Conclusion

This series of short articles supports those new to filming with Olympus mirrorless cameras. I planned more time for future articles to discuss frame rates, aspect ratios, the 180-degree shutter rule, the need for ND filters, camera movements, autofocusing techniques, and video editing.