I picked up my Sony PMW-F3 earlier this week. I still can’t quite believe the quality image this camera outputs, especially in it’s low noise characteristics. Pushed the furthest possible, 18db with shutter off giving an effective EI 12800, it can still produce a pleasing aesthetic. Noise does then appear in the shadows, but it’s not a fixed pattern, and similar to a film like grain. Quite amazing. Even the kit lenses produce a great image, sharp as you like, with very little flare and clean contrast.
I have three shorts over the next few months and a TV series to follow, so I will have some nice footage and stills coming soon I hope.