Why Choose a DSLR or ILC Over a Standard Camcorder For HD Video?

I discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each category in an easy to understand comparison with test footage. Featuring the Sony CX100 and Panasonic GH2.

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• sony cx100
• panasonic gh2
• test footage
• test video
• demo
• cinematic look
• how to
• dslr
• camcorder
• ILC

[whole27]

The Sony CX 100 is an old low end model, isn't it...u should have compared it to an updated higher end camcorder like the Sony HDR 550v which is what i have now and i'm thinking of selling it for a DSLR, the GH2 specifically.

[BrantheTechman]

@whole27 Yes but the test was more general in the comparisons that I did and the main points of the video still hold true.

[75manuhorse]

Good advice thanks. I knew that was necessary but how about monitoring the sound with headphones and flimsy connections and not having XLR connections...If i were to buy a camcorder that would have good quality HD would you suggest a few options if its not too much to ask after all the help which i appreciate so much :)?

[BrantheTechman]

@75manuhorse Honestly I am not completely sure in regards to headphones for monitoring on a camcorder, however I generally monitor the audio levels visually on the camera or camcorder itself because it is more accurate.

[1edrakel]

You think that the GH2 is the best DSLR hybrid----I agree but wait till you see it in operation with the Hacked firmware by Vitaily. Nothing, I repeat nothing under $10,000 will touch it. There are those out there who are comparing it to RED. Check out the Philip Bloom DSLR comparison test on Vimeo.

[MrAmitaph]

very helpful. thanks

[BrantheTechman]

@whole27 I said the GH2 was basically camcorder level for autofocus not anything else. DSLR's are better for filmmakers in which they can achieve depth of field (a huge bonus), far better image quality (both in video and obviously stills), and in general a more cinematic appearance. The Mark 3 is going to be a far more expensive camera which may offer slightly higher video quality but still might not have the "camcorder" GH2 abilities. You could always sell the GH2 later on though if need be.

[whole27]

@BrantheTechman okay u just said the GH2 is "nearly camcorder level"....i want the best of the best for VIDEO...i want to make movie like highest of quality HD vids and so for video, image stabilization and auto focus are the most important along with 1080p and these DSLR's don't seem to match the camcorders in the 1st two areas so how can they be better?

Also u say GH2 is better than the Canon 5d m2....the m3 is coming out, i don't want to buy the GH2 and have it be obsolete in a few months?

[BrantheTechman]

@75manuhorse If you are shooting interviews I would highly advise that you invest in an external microphone to improve the sound quality. The GH2 has okay onboard stereo microphones but they can pick up camera noise which you won't want appearing, especially during an interview. Based on that, I would recommend that you pick up a 2.5 mm to 3.5 mm adapter (because the GH2 has a 2.5 mm input while most external microphones have a 3.5 mm plug in) and a Rode Videomic Pro to start out with.

[75manuhorse]

thank you, I appreciate your advice as i have no film school background, just a good eye, sense of style and composition and experience doing photoshoots as a fashion/prop stylist in NYC and as an editor for former Mademoiselle magazine.I have had to reinvent myself and need to know where to get more advice and help making the camera choices. THis is helpful but i need further help with audio for example. I understand you have to rig things up to the GH2 for good audio. I shoot interviews....