A lot has been made of the video capabilities of the Sony NEX-5N and rightfully so. Never before have we seen a compact interchangeable lens camera pack so much video prowess, touting Full-HD integration up to 1080/60p, a first for camera at that price-point.
Through some minor setting tweaks, the pint-sized powerhouse from Sony can produce some rather cinematic images. As I stated before, I recommend heading over to EOSHD.com, where Andrew Reid detailed the a how-to guide for NEX-5N video optimization. The cinematic look in question was first achieved by Marlon Torres and his early NEX-5N video: “Pacifica.” Although not Panasonic GH2 quality, the images rendered were quite pleasant and reinforced the notion that Sony produced quite the capable little video camera.
This time around, the Sony NEX-5N received The Digital Visual treatment, taking its out for a quick 4-hour Sunday session with the goal to produce some cinematic shots. Here’s the outcome and the way it was achieved:
First, the camera was set to the “portrait profile” in the custom setting menu, with the corresponding values listed below:
- Contrast -3
- Color +0
- Sharpness -3
Image Courtesy of EOSHD
The Portrait profile allows for a great amount of latitude for color correction in post, creating the flattest default image possible on the camera. Here’s an example of before and after color correction:
In terms of color correcting. I wanted to keep the images on the darker-side, giving the mid-tones a hint of sepia. This color style is present throughout all the clips, keeping in-line to the dramatic tone of the song: Ryan Stewart’s “Autumn.”
Gear Used:
- Sony NEX-5N
- Davis & Sanford ProVista Airlift Tripod
- IndiSystems IndiSlider
- Sigma 30mm f/1.4 (Canon Mount)
- Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 (Canon Mount)
- Minolta 50mm f/1.7
- Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8 (Canon Mount)
- Sony 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Kit Lens
If you have any questions about the video or the Sony NEX-5N, be sure to send us a tweet on Twitter, comment on Facebook, or email Info@TheDigitalVisual.com.
Hi. This is fantastic. One day we will see full length films made on these tiny powerhouses. Amazing work. Magic Bullet? If so what profie?
Thanks Jarrett! I appreciate that. It’s amazing to see such performance from these little ILC’s.
I always color correct in After Effects. Nothing against Magic Bullet or anything else for that matter, just personal preference.
Hi! Awesome video!
Could you please send me the workflow?
Im planning on buying this camera.
Greetings from Norway!
You can find the workflow here:
http://thedigitalvisual.com/autumn-getting-cinematic-with-the-sony-nex-5n-quick-workflow-overview
Your going to love the NEX-5N! It’s an expectational camera. Thanks for checking it out, much appreciated.
Can you tell me your workflow starting with the clip in the camera, how you transcode it (if you do) and then export the final product? I am trying to make sure i get the best quality. I am working with the mts files natively so far with no transcoding. I am using after effects 5.5 and premiere pro 5.5. Thanks so much!
Sure thing! I sent you an e-mail, check your inbox.
I recently got a 5N and I would love to know your workflow as well. I have the 5.5 Master Collection as well as the fill Magic Bullet Suite.
Check your inbox as well!
Hi Manuel pls i’m interesting too.
check your inbox as well
Can I have the email too
My 5n processing skills need a boost big time!
Sure. Let me know if you have a specific question if the e-mail doesn’t cover enough.
Me too! leshall@gmail.com
I am extreme stunned by this gorgeous video!
Pls, I would really love to know your workflow as well!
me too
Hello everyone! This week i’ll be posting a quick workflow walk-through for the video due to the many inquires. Check back in a few days, or ill shot all those who asked an email just in case you miss it.
Regards,
Manuel
I’d like to know your detailed workflow as well. Thank you for sharing!
Currently, I’m shooting with a flat portrait profile like you describe here except I bring down color a couple of notches as well. I need to experiment a bit more with that. Next, I convert mts files to mov using media converter. I then cut them in Final Cut Pro.
I was wondering if I should look into other options for editing the files natively. I am also curious to know if you manually select white balance and lock it when filming.
A quick workflow overview is up and can be viewed here:
http://thedigitalvisual.com/autumn-getting-cinematic-with-the-sony-nex-5n-quick-workflow-overview
Is there anyway to correct for the subtle shuddering of the video in this camera, maybe in PP? The shots are gorgeous but I just can’t get past what looks like constant frame skips in every NEX series video I see. It’s like nothing can ever pan completely smoothly, it’s always interrupted by some sort of frame judder.