The Best DSLR Camera Bodies for Video
Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) cameras have lenses that can be interchanged with different sizes. These cameras are digital and produce shots based on interior mirror images. Some cameras, especially the point and shoot cameras, produce all shots digitally. Many people prefer the sharp pictures obtained by using the mirror based optic system. DSLR cameras allow manual control over shutter speed, lens aperture and focus which lets the photographer use his creativity in multiple ways for the same shot. However, if you are just starting out wanting to add your own touches to your videos, there are some very good beginner DSLR cameras.
Each camera manufacturer has a different lens attachment. This is a point to keep in mind, because lenses for different brands are not interchangeable. If only one brand is offering the lens with the focal length you need, that is the brand you will have to buy. That said, the big four in DSLR cameras are Pentex, Nikon, Cannon and Sony. Pentex cameras use a K mounted lens, Nikon uses F mounts, Cannon uses EF mounts and Sony uses an A mount. While these cameras work with non-brand name lenses, they must have the proper mount for your camera body. A good idea is to try before you buy and check out a lens hire site and make sure lenses work well with your body.
Beginners
One of the fastest entry level cameras for videos is the Pentax K-50. This camera has many manual controls and will shoot continuous shots at 6 frames per second (fps). This is also an all weather camera and performs just fine in the rain and snow. It has shake reduction, but its user guide is not sometimes easily understood by beginners.
Opinions vary, but one of the best cameras for beginners is the Nikon D330. This camera features a 24 million pixel sensor which provides extra resolution. The basic 18mm to 55mm lens collapses down into the camera case to make this camera easy to carry. This camera hasn’t built in WiFi connections or touchscreen ability which can be useful to the photographer. The camera is able to shoot continuous shots at five frames per second (fps), one of the fastest in this entry class.
Another great option is the Cannon 100D, which features a smaller 18 million pixel sensor. This camera still produces great shots and is one of the lightest. Cheaper than other models, it still allows the user manual setting choices. The camera also has a Scene Intelligent Auto System, which allows the user to learn about the various scene options with the camera. Touchscreen ability comes with the camera, so you can easily change settings when taking pictures or movies. The camera can take live shots at 4 fps. If you want a Cannon in the entry level market with more features, take a look at the Rebel T5 or 1200D. However, this camera is poorer at shooter live scenes than the cameras listed above.
Advanced and DSLR Cameras
For the more advanced photographer seeking a more professional film option, the Sony A99 is worth considering. This camera has some limitations on still pictures, but offers live shots at several high rates. Choices consist of 60/50/30/25/24 fps and the sensor with this camera is the larger one, similar to old 35mm film. The camera has a 3.5 mm microphone that records sound and a headphone so you can hear the sound and see the picture at the same time. If you want to make movies, this is an option to consider.
Other more advanced enthusiasts may want to look at the Nikon D810. This camera comes with a high resolution 36.3 million pixel sensor yet still manages to achieve motion picture speeds of 5 fps. The camera is solid and the battery life quite reasonable. However, this camera needs a skilled operator, otherwise some of your pictures may come out unintentionally fuzzy. This camera’s resolution makes some low light pictures hard to see.
If you want to do low light photography, the sensor of the Canon EOS 5D MKIII might suit you better than the Nikon D810. It has a lower resolution of with its 24 million pixel sensor, but is able to work in very low light. Video wise, this camera is capable of slow motion, you can record your video in 720/50 fpm and slow this film down in post production. It can also record full-on HD videos at speeds of 24 and 25 fpm. We used this camera for the video on Brilliants premium transportation website.
Moving on the Farrari of consumer cameras, the Nikon D4S can capture video at 60 fps, 50/30/25/24 fpm. This camera adjusts the video sound to preset levels. Its wide angle sensors measure 16 million pixels, but the other refinements on this camera make this sensor more than capable of matching any consumer camera on the market. With a 50mm lens, it’s possible to shoot a 1080p movie at a 135mm equivalent. There are numerous auto adjust features and manual controls on this camera.
Depending on your filming goals and your budget, you can find a camera hire to produce some great features and memories.
