I would love to hear any discussion about HD DSLR’s.
I am presently using two, a Canon 5d MK II and a Canon 7D. They are an exciting entry into the digital video scene. I am using them as second camera on our documentary intercutting with a Sony EX-1.

What I love about them is the portability first and foremost. I can use a light tripod if I need a steady shot or a monopod for run and gun. The 7D is brand new and I am just getting familiar with it. But it trumps the 5D in that it has 24p, 25p and 30 p speeds at 720 or 1080 resolution. The 5D is 1080p 30p only (not 29.97 but actual 30p)

The 5D has been around for awhile. I use a Juicedlink XLR Audio Adapter/Mixer/Preamp when I want audio allowing me to use either a shotgun or lavaliere. There is a firmware hack “Magic Lantern” that disables the onboard audio and adds some really useful features. and lets me use the preamp.

HD DSLR’s are creating a lot of excitement in the video community. Beside the great image quality, you get high iso ability and interchangeable lens and shallow DOF without a clumsy 35 adapter. Red has been promising “Scarlet” for years, and now Canon has trumped them by actually delivering. If you haven’t seen what these cams can do check out DVXUSER or DVINFO for footage and discussion. Also look at VIMEO for more HD Goodness.

DSLR’s
The Canon 5D MkII or the New Nikon D3s are brilliant camera’s. A fraction of the cost, no caseloads of accessories and a “35mm” CMOS which, when coupled with the array of lenses gives a truly cinematic quality to the images. But the camera is only 10% of the equation. The creativity of the user accounts for the other 90%

We have been running comparison testing with several DSLR’s against a variety of Video camera’s and the results are astounding. Couple a DSLR to a HDD recorder and the current crop of videos camera’s will be given a serious run for their money....including RED.

Michael and Rob,

This sounds really interesting and I have no experience doing what you have just described.  Sounds like a great potential meeting subject with show and tell if you guys would be up for it?

Greg R.