Tips & information on the new DSLR cameras being used for video & film.
Today's innovative technologies are constantly bringing new and exciting changes to the film and video world. It's great to see the integration of computers, film, video, and now photography equipment! Our newest rental items are the new Canon DSLR cameras. DSLR Still Cameras The EOS 5D MARK II or the EOS 7D. The DSLR cameras by both Canon and Nikon now can double up to record 1080P video at 60, 30, or 24 frames depending on the model you choose.
These small digital cameras will open up the creative mind of many that have film-making aspirations. Now it's up to you to show the world what you can do. The price point and the quality of these DSLR cameras make it attractive and affordable for anyone to make a theatrical release. The quality of the video these DSLR cameras record is probably better than intended by the manufacturers. The use of prime lenses with large F-stops provide shallow depth of field that gives you great background blurring just as if you had shot it in film. Prime Lenses
We rent Nikkor Prime Lenses to use with Digital SLR Photographic camera rentals. We have Nikkor 24mm lens, Nikkor 85mm lens, Nikkor 16mm fisheye lens, The look of the video right out of the camera is very impressive. If you expose correctly and light it right then you probably won't have to make many adjustments in post, unless you want a specialized look.
These cameras are not for everybody- for any long format shooting I would still recommend using regular video cameras. The built in audio is not recommended either; it's better to record audio separately and sync it up in post. The other limitation is the length of the recordings. Right now you are only able to record 4 gigs or about 10 minutes of video (whichever comes first). This depends largely on the subject matter- the busier the subject matter, the shorter the available recording time.
My other recommendations are to just get out there and practice shooting with these cameras. Learn all the settings so you can be comfortable making fast adjustments. Understand your depth of field. Understand lighting, and take some classes to sharpen your skills if need be. Here is a link to some classes that Canon is offering:
http://www.usa.canon.com/dlc/controller?act=GetArticleAct&articleID=2068
Or better yet, set up an appointment and we'll be glad to demo one of our rental cameras for you.
If you're already using these cameras we would love to hear about your experiences and any additional input or tips you have. Please post your comments here on our blog.