Need Direction Regarding Video Equipment Expansion

K

KSImages

New member
Hello all. I am not sure if this is the best group to post to so if not, please let me know which would be better and I will repost.

I am traditionally a still photographer who has been doing more and more video work recently. I really enjoy video and want to expand in this area and am looking for some recommendations on which way to expand.

I currently have an XHA1 as well as a 5D MkII. I need to add some additional cameras to allow for additional angles, etc. and am contemplating a couple of paths. In most situations I will be the only person working on a project.

PATH 1

Purchase (2) HV40's that would primarily be mounted on tripods or other fixed locations to produce additional video that would supplement video captured with the XHA1 as the primary camera. I am not locked into the HV40s' so would welcome any alternate camera recommendations but would like to remain with Canon products.

PATH 2

Purchase (2) 7D's or possibly (1) 7D and (1) 5D Mk II and use them like I was planning to use the HV40's in path 1 and combine the video with primary video captured with a combination of the 5D and XHA1 depending on the project. I have plenty of lenses to do this with no problem.

My primary applications would be sports event coverage such as basketball and football games and weddings.

Cost is really not a factor in my decision making. I am looking for input from people with more video experience on the pros and cons of each option and for any alternate suggestions anyone might have.

Thanks in advance for any input you can provide.
 
I dont know the video cameras but think about this for the canons and use as remote devices

The bad
-how do you trigger
-12 min run time only
-no AF and thin DOF
-no timecode to synch the footage

The good
Cheap ultrawide lenses
Fantastic Look
Body can be swapped out for a better body in time without affecting your grip/lens investment
Light/Easy to rig in strange places say a basket ball board

It is probably worth considering the Ti camera too -even lighter

S
 
For what you're doing you'd see very little or no advantage with the more expensive cameras. I'd get a t2i for that if I were set on buying an HDSLR. However, with no one manning the camera you'll want to get really deep depth of field, which totally defeats the point of HDSLR's and would leave you fighting the sensor. The HV20 would be better for that reason.
 
Thanks for the responses.

I had not considered the T2i but that is a good additional option.

I think based on your comments the HV route makes more sense for my applications. The more I thought about working around the 12 minute time limit with the DSLR route, since I am doing most of this work solo, really seems like I might be setting myself up headaches. If things continue to develop in this market for me to the point I can enlist additional helpers, going the DSLR route might make more sense. For now, an easier, less hands on method, is probably the route to go.

If anyone has any additional input please share it. I am always up for hearing differing opinions and learning from those more experienced than myself.

Thanks again.
 
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