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/

Lusting for the Nikon D90...Mmmmm HD

Here's a revolutionary and very promising development for Down and Dirty filmmakers with an HD jones and a low budget...a digital Nikon S.L.R. camera that that takes 12.3 megapixel stills that can also record 1024 x 720 24P HD video all for only $1000.00...Let me just let that part sink in for a minute.

There. Got it? Oh and did I mention that it has an interchangable lens? Well, it does. Which means for a fraction of the cost, you can use fish-eye, telephoto, macro or any other 35mm prime lens to shoot crisp clean HD video.

Before I get you all worked up into a red hot HD frenzy, I should point out that it won't replace a video camcorder. However, it sure as hell will supplement one and make for a much lower cost alternative to get some creative shots in with a small camera that you might not otherwise be able to physically (or financially) pull off. And obviously, as an S.L.R. still camera, it has audio and memory limitations.

(photo: David Pogue for NY Times)

But make no mistake about it. This is the first attack in a new front in the DV Rebellion. The technology keeps making the impossible more feasible. Sequences and shots that cost $100,000 yesterday, can be pulled off with a laptop and a prosumer camera today. It's a good time to be a Down and Dirty filmmaker. "Impossible" in the world of DV these days is an ever-moving line.

Peep out David Pogue's NY Times article on the new Nikon D90.