Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Shooting HD on a DSLR Camera

We are always after what is new and what is better in this world of digital technology and video. Not wanting to be left behind, filmmakers are eager and curious to try out the new wave in digital video: DSLR Cameras (Digital Single Lens) with HD capabilities.

Can these beauties really offer a viable alternative to more expensive digital video cameras? Maybe so…

The two most notable models of DSLR cameras out there are the Canon D5 Mark II and the Nikon D90, capable of shooting at 1080p and 720p respectively. Other models out there include Canon EOS 7D, the Nikon D300S and the Panasonic GH1 and DMC-GF1.

The Canon D5 Mark II is one of the most reputable models out there. Canon’s first camera to shoot HD video, it still remains a solid choice, user-friendly and with awesome sensors. One downside particular to this camera: It shoots video only in 30fps, there is no 24fps option.
To fix the problem, Canon one-ups itself an comes up with the D7, which is 24fps friendly, though in order to do that they reduce the size of the sensors.




The Nikon D90 seems to be the most user friendly. The intuitive interface is very similar to the D80 and therefore familiar to photo buffs. The Nikon sensors are smaller than either of the two Canons.




Similarly, the Nikon D300S is a converted version of one of their still cameras with added video capabilities.


Panasonic also had a couple of useful options. The DMC-GF1 has the same sensor limits as the two Nikons, but it is smaller than any of the previously noted models.

Though Canon and Nikon get most of the hype for HD, Panasonic’s GH1 offers full 1080ip at 24fps with the relatively smaller 4/3 lenses.

They keep getting better.
Coming out by the end of this year is Canon’s 1D Mark 1V. Here is a video where you can see all of its sweet qualities that have us drooling.





There are a few downfalls common to all of these nifty new DSLR's.
All these cameras are notorious for horrible sound capabilities. However, here is a list of popular devices used to record audio separately.

And, while the $2000 and under price tag is alluring, the price goes up if you start tagging on accessories. As an example, here is a video made by Chris Weeks, an LA photographer, breaking down all of his gear for his own HD DSLR.



For some more specs, sample footage of each of these cameras and some links check out http://www.dslr-cinematography.com/

Monday, November 16, 2009

Zoe Saldana Redux, plus Eye-Opening Revelations for Film Students on the next Double Down Film Show



On the next Double Down Film Show we'll celebrate the DVD release of the summer blockbuster, Star Trek, with a special encore of our interview with rapidly rising star, and friend of the show, Zoe Saldana.

From a slate of indies including, Co-host, Pete Chatmon's debut feature, Premium, Zoe has gone on to star in mega-films such as Star Trek and James Cameroon's soon-to-be released 3-D mega-movie, Avatar. Find out why she still loves working on indie films, her do's and don't's for first-time directors and her candid real-world advice for aspiring actors.




Plus we'll be giving out more golden nuggets with a special segment entitled Eye-Opening Revelations for Film Students. If you're dropping $20,000 - $50,000 on a film school education and just blindly following the curriculum, you're only getting half of what film school has to offer. Get our best tips for maximizing the film school experience and building your filmmaking career while still in film school.


The Double Down Film Show...Filmmaking Reality Starts Here!

Listen Live Every Wednesday 9pm-10pm E.S.T.

Call-in Number: (646) 929-1956

Listen To It Online Here:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/DoubleDownFilmShow


*PS - If you can't tune in live, you can still stream the show or save the podcast to your iPod later at the site above.