Overall, best "Mid-Range" Camera for Video

[filmninja]

So I have been looking at getting a DSLR for video for a while now, in particular, the Canon T3i. I like that it has a mic jack, and that I could install Magic Lantern for RAW video/Audio Levels, etc. However, I'm not quite sure it's what I want. I really like the feel of DSLR video, and I am still interested in getting one. However, after exploring a little deeper, I have discovered a large selection of mirrorless cameras that, in some cases, have even better video than a T3i. However, my main problem with these mirrorless cameras is that so many of them lack the essentials of shooting video, such as an HDMI output (while recording) and an external mic jack. I really liked the idea of the Panasonic G6, but not having an HDMI out bothered me a little. I do understand that the EVF on the G6 is still usable during recording, but I'm not sure I'd want my eye right up to the camera while recording all the time.

So, this was pretty much just a long, annoying rant, but I would greatly appreciate some suggestions for cameras (as well as lenses, gear, external mic's, etc.) My budget is around $800 - $900 for a full setup (camera, lens(es), tripod/rig)

I'd really appreciate some constructive feedback.

Thanks,
--Michael

 

[7DDude]

With your budget, I would take a serious look at the Sony RX-10, It just had a Firmware upgrade this past week, Sony added there very popular growing XAVC-S codec. It's at 50 MBPS. 10 bit 4:2:2 out of the HDMI port, Headphone jack, External Mic Jack, Slow Power Zoom, Ziess Lens 24mm-200mm F2.8 constant aperture. weather protected, same size as the T3i or maybe a bit smaller, and they just reduced the price to $950.00 from $1,300.00.

It shoots very nice video, many News Journalists are picking this camera up. Do a little research on it look at some of the video on Vimeo,You'll be impressed. I had my doubts about having a 1 lens camera, Now that I have had it for a few months, I really like it. It has one major Con, It really sucks batteries. For a full day shoot, review, I would highly recommend 2 batteries minimum, I have 3, and I'm thinking abut adding another one. You can work around this Con by just adding more batteries, a little inconvenience but workable. I love that I have a small kit, and my sensor is going to stay clean!

 

[TheDingo]

The Panasonic GH3 has been on sale in your price range. It most likely has everything you want on your list, and also there's the GH4 4K upgrade path available to you when you can afford it.

 

[daihard]

Aye, the Panasonic's are a really great way to go. With all the different lenses you can find for them and the amount of "video" oriented functions they come with, I think its a wonderful way to jump in.
Plus, I've found it a great way to learn about the more technical side of filming with DSLR. (i.e. codec, 180º rule, crop factor, hacking, aliasing, moiré, etc.)
Probably find a GH2 for like $300-400 these days, and of course the GH3 would be the way to go (timecode and more solid codec)... but that would be pushing that "under 1k budget" with a good lens.
Sony is another great option, but you need to "kit" those up a bit to take advantage of the higher recording codecs (4:2:2 10bit)... that alone would be another $1500 investment.

 

[7DDude]

Aye, the Panasonic's are a really great way to go. With all the different lenses you can find for them and the amount of "video" oriented functions they come with, I think its a wonderful way to jump in.
Plus, I've found it a great way to learn about the more technical side of filming with DSLR. (i.e. codec, 180º rule, crop factor, hacking, aliasing, moiré, etc.)
Probably find a GH2 for like $300-400 these days, and of course the GH3 would be the way to go (timecode and more solid codec)... but that would be pushing that "under 1k budget" with a good lens.
Sony is another great option, but you need to "kit" those up a bit to take advantage of the higher recording codecs (4:2:2 10bit)... that alone would be another $1500 investment.

The Panasonic GH3 has been on sale in your price range. It most likely has everything you want on your list, and also there's the GH4 4K upgrade path available to you when you can afford it.

If you want to have a changeable Lens camera, the Panasonic GH3-GH4 are great cameras and lots of lens options. I had the GH3, loved it, it got stolen a few months back, so I'm saving for a GH4, they are that good. In the mean time, I'm using a Sony RX-10 see my reply above, good little camera, I'll keep this for a B-Roll camera. Good Luck, I think I would stay away from Canon though, too slow to respond to technology, and the lens's are very expensive.