Shooting Performance A Host of Features and Functions, Including a Variable Frame Rate
Function for Cine-Like Video Production
Function for Cine-Like Video Production
Variable Frame Rate
In 720p mode,* the frame rate can be set from the conventional 24p/30p to any of 11 steps between 12p and 60p (or 50p).
Like the VariCam, the AG-HPX500 allows undercranking and overcranking common in film cameras to create fast-motion and
slow-motion effects.
* In 1080 and 480 modes, the frame rate is fixed at 24p/30p (25p in the 50-Hz mode).
- Higher-rate shooting produces a slow-motion effect.
This is especially effective for high-action scenes like car chases or crashes, or for scenes with considerable dramatic impact. - Lower-rate shooting creates a fast-motion effect.
This technique can be combined with a Slow Shutter Speed to emphasize movements, such as flowing water or fast-moving clouds.
Cine-Like Gamma (Eight-Mode Gamma)
Drawing on technologies developed for the VariCam, Panasonic has equipped the AG-HPX500 with advanced gamma functions that address eight different shooting scenarios and expand your creative abilities. Included are Cine-Like Gamma, which gives recordings the characteristic warm tone of film recordings, and a News Gamma that's designed especially for news gathering.
 Video Gamma Image |
 Cine-Like Gamma Image |
| AG-HPX500 Gamma Modes | |
| NEWS: | Minimizes washout to faithfully capture all visual information especially in the highlights |
| HD NORM: | Suitable for HD recording |
| LOW: | Works to flatten out a high contrast scene |
| SD NORM: | Normal setting for SD |
| HIGH: | Provides additional contrast and color gradation |
| B.PRESS: | Provides more contrast and richer blacks to low-contrast scenes |
| CINE-LIKE-D: | Shifts the Cine-Like mode to prioritize dynamic range |
| CINE-LIKE-V: | Shifts the Cine-Like mode to prioritize contrast |
Slow, Synchro and High-Speed Shutter
Used with the variable frame rate function, this allows you to create a blurring effect or crystal-clear stop-motion of sports action.
The AG-HPX500 also features a synchro scan function for capturing screen shots from a computer monitor.
Scene File Dial
Set this dial for a set of shooting conditions, and later you can instantly retrieve the settings when needed. Six preset files are provided, and you can change any of the six file names and their settings as desired. You can also transfer the setting files to an SD Memory Card.
Table of Frame Rate and Speed Effect
Native and Over-60p (50p) Modes
- 720p Native Mode: The AG-HPX500 records images at the frame rate set in the camera. Using the AG-HPX500 to play back the recording at the normal rate, you can preview the speed effect right on the spot, without using a frame rate converter. Native mode also extends the recording time.
- 720p over 60p (or 50p) Mode: The unit can output a DVCPRO HD stream from the IEEE 1394 connector as it records. This lets you produce a backup copy using a connected external hard disk recorder, such as the Panasonic AJ-HD1400 DVCPRO HD recorder or the Focus Enhancements FireStore FS-100.
1080/480 24p Advance Mode
When recording in 1080/24p or 480/24p at 60 Hz, the AG-HPX500 lets you select 24pA (Advance) mode. In this mode, it performs 60i
conversion using 2:3:3:2 pulldown, which maintains higher image quality than ordinary 24p (2:3 pulldown) in nonlinear editing*. In 30p
and 25p recording (at 50 Hz), the AG-HPX500 uses 2:2 pulldown.
* For compatibility details, visit https://eww.pavc.panasonic.co.jp/pro-av/sales_o/ieee1394
Shooting Assist Functions
- Three User Buttons: Assign a function to each, and then you can select functions with pushbutton ease.
- Focus Assist: Facilitates focusing.
- Eight lens aberration correction files (fixed) and four shading correction files support a variety of interchangeable lenses.
- Color temperature can be adjusted after the white balance is set.
- Rec Review function for easy checking of recorded results
- 4-position optical filter