Adapter for my EX1 or VDSLR?

[Bryan]

I own an EX1 which I mainly use to shoot commercials & corporate videos for my day job, it's nearly paid itself off. However my passion remains filmmaking and I've been thinking of getting a 35mm adapter to better utilize depth of field as a storytelling tool.

My question is: with the rising popularity of VDSLR cameras, would you recommend I purchase something like a Canon 7D to experiment with lenses and depth of field.... or spend roughly the same amount on an adapter for my EX1? What do you think is the better investment? Second camera or adapter?

 

[Chadfish]

I's get the 7D. You'll have less glass between the subject and the sensor.

 

[Nick Loven]

I have an EX1 and a 7D. The 7D has produced some really wonderful footage in relatively low light conditions. The EX1 still vastly superior as far image quality goes, so I'm looking for an adapter so I can use it whenever the lighting is sufficient.

 

[Bobonli]

This has been asked alot here, Bryan, so you might want to start with a search. Realize that all you will get-with due respect to all-is individual opinions. Opinions won't help your particular situation. The best way to know for sure is to rent or borrow to see for yourself.

I have an EX-1 and Shoot 35 Blade. It produces wonderful images but the 35mm adapter rig (all of them) are a PITA to use. They add considerable bulk to the EX-1, set up time and of course light loss. You'll be astonished how much light you'll need to shoot indoors with an adapter. And focus is critical. If you work with non-pro's you'll need to really explain to them not to move around in the scene, and thus in and out of the field of focus. Of course that last issue applies to HDSLRs too.

I've shot a very little with a 7d. The form factor is a joy compared to EX-1 with adapter. I'm talking about the naked 7D form factor. Not including monitor for critical focus, mattebox, follow focus, accessory mic, H4n recorder etc etc. I sincerely believe by the time you accessorize an HDSLR you're right back to the size of the EX-1. The form factor is a draw in my opinion.

The image quality is not comparable despite what anyone writes. From a physics/engineering standpoint it cannot be. Yes, it looks nice but the camera and chip just cannot resolve as much as your EX-1. Look at the clip in post #14 of this thread. Watch the original clip, not just the still that was posted:
http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=199724&page=2

Moire and artifact issues are well-documented. Some say there are ways to control for it but do you want to add that burden onto the already long list of things you have to do to make a quality product? If size and form factor are not major concerns, I think the adapter wins out for pure image quality.

Search the forums and get the other perspectives. Also check the Adapter forum below. Rent before you commit your money.

 

[david_p]

if youve never shot with a DSLR then it would be worth your while to check it out before you buy since the ergonomics is a far different experience to the EX1.

ive got an EX1, HMC150 & 5DmkII. i dont feel the need to accessorize my 5D as much as some others. for me a shoulder rig, eyepiece loupe and H4n are all that i use. i already had the shoulder rig for the EX1 & H4n so the only thing i needed to add on was a Zfinder.

you can get a Hoodloupe cheap, an LCDVF for a bit more or the Zfinder. they all work but each individual has their own preferences.

if you were really preoccupied with matching your EX1 clips with a DSLR then you may be dissapointed. i have to dumb down my EX1 when i put them together. not a big problem most of the time but not optimal.

of course like Bobonli says its all individual opinion (and he gave his too)...i think for me at least i like having a very different option like a DSLR. i already had all the fastest and best glass that canon/nikon makes (nikon using and adaptor). creatively it just seemed like a natural move and i like the fact that it can be a lightweight and smaller form factor.

aliasing and moire hasnt really affected me yet, guess im lucky. i know the 7D @ 720p 60fps is more prone to having this issue vs the 1080p mode.

i already had the 5DmkII but bought the 7D hoping to utilize the 60fps mode but ended up taking it back since i saw that moire was more problematic and i didnt care for its IQ compared to my 5DmkII anyway. if youve got the money i would take a serious look at the 5DmkII if you plan to shoot in lower light scenarios. as a photo camera or video camera the 5DmkII is clearly better.

david
www.davidprobst.com