Starter DSLR

[Foster Kane]

I am seriously considering investing in a DSLR.


This is some of the test footage I have seen.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDxZZz_F99E

I am looking at a Canon 7D but I was wondering is a that a good starter cam for a beginner?
What would any of recommend?

What type of external mic needs to installed on it to get sound?

 

[wgzn]

how "beginner" are you?

every DSLR from $500 to $3000 (or more) has its own set of drawbacks. from what i read the 7D is considered to have the least, of what some consider deal breaking issues.
some people say that not having a full frame sensor is a deal breaker, some (like myself) say not being able to monitor externally while shooting is a deal breaker.
it all depends on what you shoot and how you like to work.

id say either a 7D or GH2

 

[Foster Kane]

how "beginner" are you?

every DSLR from $500 to $3000 (or more) has its own set of drawbacks. from what i read the 7D is considered to have the least, of what some consider deal breaking issues.
some people say that not having a full frame sensor is a deal breaker, some (like myself) say not being able to monitor externally while shooting is a deal breaker.
it all depends on what you shoot and how you like to work.

id say either a 7D or GH2

I have never used a DSLR in my life. I am currently using a Cannon HF 200.
If I were to use a DSLR, it would be to make movies.

There is a guy I know who uses DSLR says that I should stick with DV camcorders instead.

Do you have any recommendations for external mics? Can you do slow motion on a DSLR or that can only be done in post?

 

[HHL]

I have never used a DSLR in my life. I am currently using a Cannon HF 200.
If I were to use a DSLR, it would be to make movies.

There is a guy I know who uses DSLR says that I should stick with DV camcorders instead.

Do you have any recommendations for external mics? Can you do slow motion on a DSLR or that can only be done in post?

I would not hesitate to buy a T2i...I've seen body only for 600usd. Add a Helios 44 F2.0 for 30usd, M42 to EOS adapter for 15bucks...you're in business. The last DVXFest winner was shot on a T2i. NOT because it's such a GREAT camera....but because it is certainly good enough....and good enough for a beginner for sure. Mine paid off its self shooting a wedding....they loved the pics too.

BTW...Tamron 17-50 F2.8...great flexible lens...also tough to be for the price. I'm sure there are many options....this just happens to be a VERY cheap one that will take care of most basic needs. Cheers!

 

[majikfraug]

I'd go with the GH2. I am a current GH1(3) owner and have shot with the 7D as well. You can use any lens on the market with the GH2 it has touch focus, great low light, HDMI out, very small and lightweight, articulated screen, etc. I would go with the 60D over the 7D, FWIW.

This might help you decide, it's Philip Bloom's UPDATED: Which… “Video DSLR” to buy?: http://philipbloom.net/2010/12/07/whichdslr/

 

[flinty]

That footage was not all that good,i have a T2i/550D they are capable of realy nice foootage but its a lot harder work getting it than with a cam, the usual thing is to use separat recorder but that is out of the question if like me you are on the move filming [tripod/brace etc]i have a rode stere mic but it is too heavy for use with the hoodcrane i use with my loupe so i now use http://www.videomaker.com/article/13678/ with my 550D.