Videomaker – Learn video production and editing, camera reviews › Forums › Cameras and Camcorders › DSLR’s › Need help
Shawn_morgan32.Shawn_morgan32Me and my friend are starting up a youtube channel for pranks. We have asked on here before about camcorders and thanks to the forums help, found a great camcorder. We have some more money and want a dslr. Were looking in the 500 dollar range and i would like something really good for videos. We will be shooting at night and daytime and already have a sound system. Just looking for the best one possible technology wise!
mcrockettYou might not be able to find anything new at that price point. However, you can probably get a used Panasonic GH2 for around that. It’s mirrorless, which means that it functions like a DSLR, but without the mirror. Look on eBay.
brunerwwHi Shawn_morgan32 – I would avoid DSLRs (especially Canon DSLRs) for video.
In your price range, they lack:
– 1080/60fps for smooth HD slow motion (they are limited to 30 frames per second)
– a usable viewfinder when you switch to “Live View” (video) mode
– compatibility with affordable power zoom lenses
– the ability to record for more than 30 minutes continuously
– a built-in intervalometer
Plus, Canon DSLRs in this price range suffer from a phenomenon known as “moire” as the result of poor downscaling.
Panasonic G and GH cameras, for example, have a better downscaling algorithm. Here are a couple of side-by-sides between the Canon 60D and a moire-resistant Panasonic GH camera:
Newer Canon cameras are not much better. Here is a side-by-side between the Canon 60D and 70D:
Instead of a DSLR, you might want to consider a moire-resistant mirrorless camera such as the $515 Panasonic G6 (brand new with a 1 year manufacturer’s warranty): http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?icep_ff3=2&pub=5575034783&toolid=10001&campid=5337235943&customid=&icep_item=321613840675&ipn=psmain&icep_vectorid=229466&kwid=902099&mtid=824&kw=lg
This camera has a viewfinder that actually works while you’re recording video, has a built-in intervalometer for time lapse, records at up to 1080/60p for smooth slow motion, records for hours continuously (instead of minutes), has a lens with a silent autofocus motor and is compatible with affordable power zoom lenses.
Here is what this camera can do:
Narrative
Music Video
Documentary
Slow Motion/Sport
Wedding
Travel Video
Timelapse
It is a capable still camera too: https://www.flickr.com/groups/lumix-g6/pool/
In my view, this is the best large sensor, interchangeable lens still/video camera you can buy for around $500.
Hope this is helpful and good luck with whatever camera you decide to buy!
Bill
Hybrid Camera Revolution
http://www.hybridcamerarevolution.com
mcrockettI agree with Bill. The G6 is probably your best bet in this price range.
