General Questions about using the 7D/550D/T2i

[Foster Kane]

I am looking at buying a 7D/550D/T2i

I have a rode videomic and I would like to use it. I was wondering what type of audio system would you all recommend?

I know it is best to have a sound man but right now, I would like to do my own audio.

I plan on doing short narratives and documentaries. Are there any limitations that I should be aware of? I have heard that overheating can be an issue which causes shutdowns.

 

[Jarrett P. Morgan]

The general consensus is that, in order to get good audio, you need to use an external recorder.

You can get good results from a T2i with Magic Lantern, though not nearly as good as out of say a H4n or whatnot.

 

[Chris S. Alexander]

I would also suggest a Zoom H4n for your audio. The sound you're going to get from directly plugging into the camera isn't going to be great. You might also try putting lav mics on your talent to get the best audio possible (just try to hide them).

The Rode VideoMic will work find for reference audio when attached to the camera. The camera's mic works great for reference audio, unless you have an IS lens attached...so I would suggest having the Rode VideoMic in as much as you can.

The main limitation of these cameras is rolling shutter (pixels have a batting order as opposed to other video cameras that have a global shutter where all the pixels capture at once). The second (in my opinion) is sound.

As far as overheating, you should be fine. The 7D is only going to overheat if you leave it in the sun for too long, same with the T2i (from what I understand I don't use the T2i all that much). It's always good to have a backup camera with you because after a full shoot day the sensor will start to get funky on you and change the colors up a little bit, but you can always work your way up to 2+ cameras.

Best of luck.

Edit: I fixed a typo.

 

[pulpfiction007]

Look into the 60d. Articulating screen, overheats less, audio level controls. Add a Zoom or a Tascam and you're good to go. Issues to look out for -Aliasing and moire. Learn where they pop up and shoot accordingly.