Andy – I’m going to offer slightly different advice. If you want a career in filmmaking, it would be useful start out with a camera with a large sensor for control of depth of field – and I also recommend interchangeable lenses – so you can make artistic choices about focal length and explore the ‘character’ of different types of lenses.
I am not a fan of traditional DSLRs for some of the reasons outlined above – but my mirrorless Panasonic GH2, a DSLM or “mirrorless” camera in the “DSLR form factor” has unlimited video clip length, an external mic jack, power zooms (if you want them), autofocus – and extraordinary video resolution – in a $1190 camera (used price at Amazon).
Here is what can be done with a handheld GH2 with the right lens – no shoulder rigs or contraptions:
https://vimeo.com/43297844
https://vimeo.com/30350710
If you must have the camcorder form factor, I still recommend interchangeable lenses. You can get a used Sony NEX-VG10 with 18-20mm zoom for $1000 at Amazon:http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B003WQMSOU/ref=sr_1_1_olp?tag=videomaker22forum-20
Here is what can be done with the VG10:
https://vimeo.com/13344064
(Warning: NSFW)https://vimeo.com/26825214
The Vixias are fine cameras, but the “cinematic” control of depth of field that film audiences are accustomed to can only be produced with larger sensors as found in micro 4/3 (GH2), APS-C (VG10), or (much more expensive) Super 35 or full frame sensor cameras.
Hope this is helpful,
Bill
Hybrid Camera Revolution
