Handling the new Sony PMW-EX3

 

Swivel Grip: It’s rotund, voluminous, and spins like a revolver chamber. You can customize the shooting angle you want by pressing the release button and letting it go at the optimal position. This is a killer design. An indie filmmaker in attendance agreed that the swivel grip’s ergonomic versatility made tight shots comfortable. Of course, I am a certified specialist in Flaw Finding, and I found that the Release button at the back of the swivel grip was located a bit too far up. You have to use both hands to crank the PMW-EX3 into position. Also, the Zoom toggle is enormous. You really have to spread your fingers if you want to reach the W and T rockers. All in all, the swivel grip is neato—it just needs a more refined construction, which we’ll most likely see in models to come.

 

The Sony PMW-EX3 swivel grip

Lens Rings: Not only does the PMW-EX3 feature an interchangeable lens system, but you get a Zoom, Focus, and Iris ring! Sony’s adjustment rings are so smooth, they’d make Land ‘O Lakes proud. There’s nothing more satisfying than Iris control right at your command. The Zoom ring also poses as a viable (possibly mandatory) alternative to the statuesque swivel grip Zoom rocker.

 

Shoulder Mount Pad: The only words that came to my mind when I hoisted the PMW-EX3 onto my shoulder were gushy and gooey. It’s as if Sony filled the rubber pad with Nickelodeon Gak or some similar kind of gel. On the downside, the pad is a bit small and the PMW-EX3 is a bit too short to reach certain shoulders comfortably. I found my arm was bent too close to my chest, while the XL H1 offered more of a personal space bubble.

 

Grabbing the Sony PMW-EX3

Viewfinder/LCD: The PMW-EX3's viewfinder is obscene. It's like a mutant arm. That being said, the viewfinder is exceedingly warm and inviting with its rubberized eye cup and monumental size. This is the pinnacle of comfort. You can also flip the viewfinder up to reveal the LCD screen. Yummy. 

Size: The PMW-EX3’s smaller size pays off in the portability arena, though—I just happen to prefer the larger size of the XL H1 for a shoulder mount. The PMW-EX3 is like a shoulder mount/handheld hybrid, which Sony deserves a shout out for. This camcorder will most likely be a success, just like the PMW-EX1.

 

There you have it! My initial thoughts on the PMW-EX3. Be sure to check it out when it hits the shelves and let me know what you think of this new prosumer beast. For a more in-depth look at the PMW-EX3, check out Philip Bloom's sneak peak review here.