Skateboarders, while often slow to adopt new technology, have surprisingly embraced certain innovations quickly. The Sony VX1000 became a staple for skate filmers soon after its 1995 release, and pro skaters swiftly used social media platforms like Instagram for marketing. However, the community seems somewhat stuck on older technology, like the Panasonic HVX200 and HPX170 cameras, with their limitations like 720p resolution and outdated P2 storage. With the scarcity and high cost of these cameras and their accessories, including the ultra-expensive fisheye lens, it’s time to explore modern alternatives that can meet the demands of contemporary skate filmmaking.
The ideal replacement would be readily available, reasonably priced, and capable of producing high-quality footage suitable for modern use. To get a better perspective, we reached out to our network of filmmaking professionals to gather their insights on cameras that could become the next go-to for skateboarding videos.
Elias Parise, a filmmaker, considers the challenges of finding a suitable replacement for the HPX camera in skateboarding.
Expert Opinions on Skate Camera Alternatives
Elias Parise: “Honestly, I’m stumped on finding a true replacement for the HPX for skating. I envision a camcorder style, but with updated file storage and a fisheye option beyond the Century Xtreme. However, I don’t believe anything like that currently exists.”
Greg Hunt, a seasoned skate filmmaker, shares his perspective on the evolution of skateboarding cameras and the key features needed in a modern replacement.
Greg Hunt: “I don’t foresee a new camera dominating the market anytime soon. The HPX became popular due to its HD capability, toggle zoom, and CCD sensor, which is an older technology, but desirable. The ‘jello effect’ on flash sensors is not ideal for skating. A new camcorder with toggle zoom, a superior sensor, and fisheye lens compatibility is necessary. Once key filmers adopt it, the rest will follow.”
Max Hull, a photographer and filmmaker, discusses the limitations of mirrorless DSLRs for skate filming, highlighting the importance of the iconic toggle zoom.
Max Hull: “Many use mirrorless DSLRs now, but they lack the iconic toggle zoom that is essential for skate filming. A camera needs both a toggle/servo zoom and fisheye compatibility, which is what made the VX and HPX successful. While the Sony FX6, FX3, and Panasonic Lumix GH6 are used by some, there isn’t a true replacement for the classic Handycam style. The VX1000 has lasted over 25 years, and the HPX probably has several more years left.”
Richard Quintero, a filmmaker, suggests the Sony FX6 as a versatile option for skate filming due to its compact design and autofocus capabilities.
Richard Quintero: “The Sony FX6 is perhaps the most versatile camera for skating. It is compact, has good autofocus, and is compatible with a servo zoom lens. I use a Blackmagic Ursa Mini Pro, which is great for documentary work, but not ideal as a skate cam. The HPX offers a more plug-and-play experience, with most users setting the colors in-camera, while the Blackmagic requires color grading in post-production. The HPX will remain for a while, as will the VX. The Sony AX700 could be an option for 4K filming that seamlessly integrates with the HPX, without adding excessive bulk.”
Shari White, a filmmaker, shares her experience using the HPX with the Century Xtreme fisheye and her adoption of the MK1 Intermediate modded for the HPX.
Shari White: “I’ve been using the HPX with the Xtreme fisheye for a recent Vans project, and it’s grown on me. I recently got the MK1 Intermediate modded for the HPX. It’s larger than the original and can be cropped to mimic the Xtreme, which will be useful for smaller future projects.”
JP Blair, a filmmaker, discusses his preference for cameras with zoom capabilities and highlights the challenges of adapting to new technologies.
JP Blair: “I haven’t used other HD cameras for skating, but if I had to buy one, it would be the Sony FX6 because of its zoom capabilities and fisheye lens options. I come from an era where content wasn’t as relevant as it is today, which is why the HPX remains a perfect skate cam. It’s not overly polished or cinematic. The FX6 is more polished, but it is beneficial since I film other projects at 4K. When the HVX/HPX came out, I didn’t want to use it, because I only saw skating through a VX lens. Now it’s hard to watch skating on a VX if it isn’t done correctly. The choice depends on what the camera is needed for and whether or not you’re getting paid. A camera should feel natural. I know I could use the FX6 for work outside of skating.”
Jeff Cecere, a skate filmmaker, notes the variety of camera setups being used, highlighting the potential of the Sony FX6 with the Canon fisheye lens.
Jeff Cecere: “There are so many great cameras out there. It’s good to see people experimenting with different setups. The FX6 with the Canon fisheye seems versatile and user-friendly. We’re used to low-definition skate videos, so a high-definition camera with an easy-to-manipulate image is ideal. Considering the high cost of a fisheye lens, some may lean toward the FX6. Key features for a good skate cam include in-camera audio, zoom rockers, and an SD card slot. Filmmakers should try new cameras that suit their needs instead of adhering to a ‘standard.’ Anything involving a phone or the Ty Evans body cam rig should be abandoned.”
Blake Matthews, a filmmaker, notes that while the FX6 is a solid option, personal preference is key to choosing a skate camera.
Blake Matthews: “The FX6 with the Canon 8-15mm lens is a good option. Some of the newer Panasonic camcorder-style cameras with the Xtreme lens could be cool as well. Everyone will eventually have to switch but it’s all about preference. I’ve seen that most cameras look good depending on who’s operating them.”
RB Umali, a filmmaker, believes that there won’t be a single replacement for the HPX-170 that includes a motorized zoom lens and Xtreme fisheye in a single camera body.
RB Umali: “I doubt there will be a single replacement for the HPX-170 with a motorized zoom lens and Xtreme fisheye lens in the near future. The best upgrade is using a full-frame 4K DSLR (like the Sony ZV-E1, A7S Mark 3, or FX3) with ‘Clear Image Zoom’ for fisheye shots and a smaller 4K camcorder with a motorized zoom lens for long lens shots. This combination is lighter and potentially cheaper than a used Century Xtreme lens on eBay.”
Romain Batard, a filmmaker, believes that the fisheye lens will dictate the new standard, emphasizing the need for quality and distortion.
Romain Batard: “The best fisheye will dictate the next standard (like the Century MK1 and Xtreme). The new standard should be a camcorder or a camera with a powered zoom system, which is important for skate filming. It also needs a good internal microphone and a form factor similar to the VX1000 or HPX-170. Hybrid cameras like the Sony FS and FX lines are good, but they lack 16:9 fisheye options. Since no new fisheye lens for camcorders seems to be in development, I don’t think a new standard will emerge yet. I wish Century or another company would make a smaller version of the Xtreme for modern and lightweight cameras.”
Kyle Camarillo, a filmmaker, suggests that skateboarding filming is all about style and that cameras are just tools.
Kyle Camarillo: “It’s tough to say if there will ever be another ‘go-to’ camera like the VX and then the HPX. It’s such a wide range of options. There’s a 4K HPX-style camcorder that some people are using. For me, it’s the Panasonic Lumix GH6. I recently got Jacob Harris a GH6 for a Tom Knox project, and even though he’s an HPX guy, he was excited to try something new. He was getting tired of the HPX and wanted to improve. I doubt there will be a single ‘gold standard’ anymore. Skateboard filming is about style. You can film with Hi8, iPhone, or 8mm! It’s about what works for you and what look you’re going for. Cameras are just tools. They shouldn’t define your work. Isn’t the iPhone the new HPX?”
David Serrano, a filmmaker, discusses the potential return of the Xtreme fisheye for the HPX and the slow adoption of newer technologies.
David Serrano: “I’ve thought about this a lot. I keep hearing about a new run of Xtreme fisheyes for the HPX, but I’m also worried they’ll just get bought out and sold at a ridiculous price, making that setup unaffordable for most. A lot of people are switching to Sonys like the FS5 and FX6, but it really depends on who is filming and how they set their camera. While more people are embracing it, most skaters still prefer the way the HPX is typically used. Everything is being recycled from previous eras in skating, so I wouldn’t be surprised to see projects being filmed with a VX again.”
Greg Navarro, a filmmaker, highlights the advantages of the Sony FX6, including its image quality and versatility.
Greg Navarro: “I currently use the Panasonic GH5 with the Canon 8-15mm fisheye. Mirrorless cameras require a rig with a handle, microphone, lens, and external battery, which can disrupt the spontaneity of filming. The next great skate cam should have all those features built in, like the VX1000. The 4K image from the Sony FS5 and FX6 are the most versatile, especially with the increase in 9:16 aspect ratio for Instagram Reels. Affordability is also a factor. The Sony FS700 is an affordable option with a servo zoom and fisheye at 1080p. Color grading is becoming more popular, and cameras with good color depth, like the Sony FS5 and FX6 with S-Log, have an advantage. If cost wasn’t a factor, I’d say the Sony FX6 is the strongest option, with all the features, high-quality images, and lens options needed for years to come.”
Conclusion
The search for the next go-to camera for skateboarding is ongoing. While the Panasonic HPX remains a popular choice, its limitations and the rising cost of accessories make it clear that a change is needed. The Sony FX6 appears to be the most frequently mentioned contender, offering high-quality images, versatility, and modern features. However, the skateboarding community’s diverse preferences and the unique requirements of skate filming mean that no single camera may become the new standard. Ultimately, the best camera will depend on the filmmaker’s style, budget, and the specific look they are aiming to achieve. As technology evolves, it’s likely that more innovative solutions will emerge, further shaping the future of skate videography.
Interviews by: Alexis Castro & Greg Navarro
Illustrations by: Jessi Knox
