What do you recommend?

[Jon Carr]

The 7D can do 12 min takes, higher ISO can reduce overall recording time. I once had the 7D record past 20 minutes but the high temp signal was coming up, and to get that long of take it was basically recording total black, whiter the image=more infomation. Reason why the 7D can only record 4.79 GB max for a take which on average is 12-13 min with the 7D. So on average the longest takes you can take with the 7D is 12-14min. your 16gb card should be fine for 45-50 minutes.

 

[Chip G]

Some reports link the GH1 automatic modes to the infamous 'mud'.

I have been following some of that, I know a guy testing that 'theroy' right now, it'll be interesting to see if he can verify it or call it a myth.

 

[Emanuel A.]

I have been following some of that, I know a guy testing that 'theroy' right now, it'll be interesting to see if he can verify it or call it a myth.

Then we'll wait for your reports too.

 

[Peter Moretti]

I have to say that IMHO you should take all the SD recommendations in previous pages w/ a grain of salt. HD is here to stay and you need to know how to work with it. Also, most HD cameras can shoot SD if you want to. Finally, any modern computer and NLE can edit HDV. AVCHD will probaly require a transcode, but it's still doable.

 

[Jason Badham]

I recently went the 7D route and am happy I did. I still have my DVX-100, but several things moved me toward the 7D as opposed to the 5D/GH1/XH/HMC options.

I needed to upgrade my DVX and was looking at all of the *video* cameras out there (HVX/EX1/EX3/HMC etc.) and while the quality of the HD image is good with most of them, I didn't like the expensive media you had to get with the HVX or the EX3 (you have to lay down quite a bit of money to have the ability to capture a 4 hour+ shooting schedule). Canon's HD video cameras still use HDV which I wanted to avoid for quality and convenience reasons - the quality of the 25mbs codec and the pain of having to ingest tape hour-for-hour. The HMC looked good in that it was the HD step *up* from my DVX and used inexpensive SD cards but didn't like the small 1/3" sensors - I'm not a DOF freak, but I do want the ability to use it if I need without having to use clumsy adapters (which I have).

When the 7d came out I devoured pretty much any feedback that came from the people who were using it professionally. I already had some canon lenses so that helped and the 7d uses inexpensive CF cards (if you want really fast and inexpensive CF cards go here). Shooting double system sound seemed like an added pain, but you can improve the quality of audio this way, so I ended up buying the PMD661 for audio which gives me 24/96 capture which is excellent headroom.

I don't shoot weddings or events so the 12 minute limit has not gotten in my way and because my projects will be going out to DVD the aliasing issues haven't affected my projects at all (plus I am careful about what I shoot). The smaller form factor, huge sensor, 24p and 60p capabilities have made the option well worth it to me. Because I am shooting double sound too, it really forces you to plan your shoots well and be more organized because you have to, whereas with projects I had before I would let the tape roll more and shoot a little sloppier.

I know the Scarlet's capabilities will be far better than the 7d or any of the cameras listed here, but it's not out yet and I needed to upgrade some of my equipment now - I was feeling too many creative limitations with my DVX (which I still love and will keep for simpler run-and-gun projects). Whether you choose the 7d or the GH1, I know there are differences between bit-rates and sensor sizes, but go with what you can reasonably afford and focus on acquiring some solid support gear like a good audio recorder, mics, maybe some support rails/mattebox + filters because all of this stuff will be usable for Scarlet when it does finally come out. Learn as much as you can with what you do get and make yourself comfortable with the process of shooting as this will really help you advance the most.

 

[DDirector]

I'm probably going to stay with the 7D.

Can someone tell me more about the audio?
It doesn't have inputs, so, what would be best to do?

when using a RODE NTG-2 mic.

 

[Tom Visser]

The 7D does have audio inputs, just plug in your mic using an appropriate adapter cable (use a battery in the NTG-2 to provide phantom power, as the 7D cannot power condenser mics).

The best thing to do would be to purchase an audio field recorder. You would then have sound hardware that would be compatible with any camera that you purchase now or years from now. Sound Devices 702T would be nice, their new 552 mixer can also record audio to SDHC cards. Obviously they are sort of expensive (but for a good reason), maybe on a more budget friendly option would be to look for a used Fostex FR-2LE, Edirol R44, or something along those lines.

 

[Mike Shugrue]

Before you go running out and buying a product ask yourself a few questions>

Where is your footage going to be viewed ? Blown up to 35mm? TV? DVD sales?
Have I worked out each cameras post work flow issues?
How much is the storage for the camera that I am purchasing ?
How easy is it to fine glass ? (Lenses) *
*The lens you buy can last 10 years- your camera is going to last maybe 4yrs
If you have a problem with your camera -How easy is it to get it repaired and where does it need to go to?
Certain Arri Cameras need to go to Germany as a example.
Red is in Orange County, Sony all depends on the model.
The other question what is your primary medium that you are working with?
Docs,Music Video's, indy's. or High speed(cars-snow skiers) Green Screen.
By the looks of it your more comfortable with the Canon line, They make some very good lenses as well. I have 3 of them and they work all the time.

 

[David W. Jones]

If you are intent on buying an HDSLR camera, here is a link to an article that you may find helpful. http://www.dvxuser.com/articles/article.php/26

Good Luck with your purchase.

 

[DDirector]

Having the xlr adapter cable, whatever the actual name is...

will that create any unwanted/bad noise?
From what I can see, the cables are $20-$75, which is not bad.

The other question is, when I want to go on shoulder mount... how do you connect the audio? Because plugging into the camera is not a good idea, dragging cable behind you is not such a good idea. I would need a field monitor, correct?

 

[Andrea Monzini]

don't take T1i.

I reselled it after one week. too much Aliasing and Moirè. no manual control.

So my advice is 7D + good lens or 5D Mark II + cheap leans like 50 f1.8.

I'm waiting for Fixed Scarlet.. in the meanwhile i will rent a Red One for few shots.

Andrea

 

[DDirector]

I already mentioned I'm NOT going for the T1i for sure. Just so you know.

I have been talking over with others and to the people at the camera stores, and they've been saying the 7D is great, but I should also consider the used Canon Xh-A1.

That it could solve some problems such as audio, and it would be better for me to get to know video camera than the video mode on still cameras.

Would you think that going with the used XH-A1 would be a better idea?
It would cost me about $350-500 more than the 7D.


I am NOT going with the Scarlet. I see no use for me having that 3K sensor at this time. Basically that good of a camera is 'too good for me.' It costs too much. I am NOT going with it.

 

[David W. Jones]

You might then want to visit dvinfo.net.
They have an area for the XH-A1

 

[Felipe Rojas]

It's true. But yet about my earlier post... ...something really beyond and a way relevant is the glass.

Here's an example how high quality glass can help and resolve what any inferior choice over the apparent lack of definition of the Canons (read 5D Mark II) on the wide range cannot.

http://vimeo.com/7883183

It's not accurate to infer that with the Canon's 1080p, the glass is a matter of non-considerable worthy of note.

I agree 100% with you. In my opinion as well it's all about the glass, and here is the sequel of the remains of the season to prove it. I hope you guys can see what I mean: http://vimeo.com/8386441

Thank you!