My Gear: Cameras
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This is a list of my recommended HDSLRs for shooting video. There are a wide range of option here for all budgets and experience levels. |
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The following is a compilation of what I think are the most useful Super 35/Cine cameras for those looking to move into the world of Digital Cinema cameras. Again, I have included a wide range of options for all budgets and experience levels. |
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My recommendations for Action Sports / Wearable cameras, which have become a huge camera market. My selections for these cameras can also be used as backup or specialty shot cameras on any video production. |
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Thanks Vincent,
This overview is very helpful for somebody who is getting in to DSL video
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Thanks a lot for updating your gear section. Looks like you spent a lot of time on this, and I really appreciate it.
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No red?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
September 9th, 2010 at 12:01 am
@Brandon, Not yet… then I’d have to get into Phantom, Alexa, Genesis etc etc… and people would REALLY think I’m crazy when I start listing that gear… I do use RED and all of the aforementioned cameras
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really appreciate this new section on your gear, do you really have this much gear?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
September 9th, 2010 at 12:02 am
@karl bratby, A lot of it yes – but I do rent a LOT of it as well… remember: most photographers want to own their gear – whereas in video most people rent EVERYTHING…
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When/where can I get a PowerShot G12?
And will the sensor size get any bigger? APS-C hopefully to compete with the Sony NEX or Panasonic four-thirds cameras on DoF control?
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Ken Wortendyke Reply:
September 15th, 2010 at 9:20 am
@Ken Wortendyke, You beat the press release by a few days, but Canon answered my own questions this week…
http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/about_canon?pageKeyCode=pressreldetail&docId=0901e024801fd32c
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Thank you Vincent,
great summary of all pros and cons, very straight to the point.
So, sadly there is no cine-zoom that could be PL mounted to the 5D Mark II without creating some heavy vignetting? 🙁
How do prime lenses designed for 35mm film cameras perform on a 5D Mark II?
I can imagine lenses with a good long throw on the focus are a must…
great work again!
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Upgrading and have always used Canon…friends swear by Nikon. What is your opinion on Nikon. BTW thanks for all of your helpful reviews! Juli
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Hi, Vicent.
I have a T2i 18-115mm and i´m very happy with this little camera. With a Seinheiser wireless micrphone plugged i can do a very good job. Unfortunately in Brazil the gears kits are hard to find and very expansive. At last, I do appreciate your work very much. Guilherme (Curitiba-Brazil).
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Hi Vincent,
As somebody getting into DSLR video and still photograpy, I have read so many articles, reviews, blogs, etc. looking for my perfect camera. This post has been the most helpful, clear and concise explanations of these cameras yet. Your insight and expertise are appreciated. Thanks!
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I got my little Gopro HD last week. Very impressive! Grabbing up a 7D next week. I love my T2i and it shoots great video out doors in the sun, as you can see from my website, but Vincent, you have talked me into the 7D and I’ll use the T2i as back up. It did not take much twisting though. I’m doing Real Estate walk throughs and need the lower light capabilities. Thanks Vincent! The GOPRO HD is a cool little camera too.
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Been seeing a bunch of comments on Twitter via PBloom, NLeitner and other impressive HDSLR users recommending 60D over 5DII and 7D recently and was wondering if u would agree with their assessment? I appreciate the great work you do!
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Vincent,
Do you see Canon fixing the 480p hdmi output problem with the 5D MK II? Or are they coming up with a totally new camera for us?
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Cant believe this I was set to buy the Mkii but its obvious I need the 7D for the documentary style footage I’m planning. Atleast I’ll have some $ left over now and wont need to hire sh*t anymore!
Thanks VL
What recommendations can you make in achieving a 5d look on the 7d? Top lense choice for doco’s on 7d??
Thanks again
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Dear Vincent, an excellent overview and infos. We are considering between the EOS 5D Mark II and the EOS 7D to use for stills (mostly documenting filmshoots, making of) and filming to document events, travels and making-of (films), documenting a filmfestival…we would start basic…could you suggest which way to go ? Best Sergej
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Hi Vincent, sorry about my english…
Is it possible to extract more than 480p from the HDMI of 5D Mark II?
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ups!
I forget to include this in my last comment:
Even if I use an external monitor connected to the HDMI of the 5D Mark II I will never had more than 480p on it. Is it like this? If so, is there a way to extract more than 480p from the HDMI of the 5D Mark II?
Thanks!
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Hi,
Thank you for your generous sharing of information.
newbie question please: the dual processors on the 7d – any advantages or difference in strictly video quality – noise, buffering time, over a single processor as in t2i or 60d?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
January 12th, 2011 at 9:54 pm
If they ask me – I ‘ll be there – would love to come say hi at Brooks!
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Awesome listing Vincent, thanks for sharing.
Just FYI: Your Vimeo shortcodes are broken above.
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Did you always use Canon, back when you use to work for the NY Times?
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Hey,
first of all gongrats on the site and your work. I remember that in the old website there were some videos under each camera. Now, i can see the codng for then but they won’t appear. I wanted to knwo the name of that go pro video with 2 kids skinboarding.
Can you post it again or at least send me the link here??
Thanks!
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 11:54 am
For some reason we are having a lot of trouble with the embeds on this page. working on it and it should be back up soon!
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Hi Vincent,
Thanks for sharing your knowledge, it is invaluable.
I was wondering if you had taken a closer look at the 60D yet to add your own comments to the review above?
I am curious on your opinion of the 60D vs the 7D for video.
Thanks, Paul
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Well.
Im pretty much sold on the MK II after Reverie. Brilliant..
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Hi Vincent,
Thanks for letting us know your experience on each camera you have tested and used.
Please, keep us informed about the EOS 60D vs. other models, and also about the newest T3i / 600D, which could be a nice entry-level with exciting features for lot of people.
One feature missing in the T3i is the ability to set White Balance in Kelvin, which is important in lot of cases. But one very interesting new feature available ONLY in the T3i (so far) is the new 3x to 10x zoom (less aliasing/moire at 3x?, besides that’s a really handy feature for other purposes)
We’ve been requesting a Zoom/Crop video mode feature since SO long, because we know the hardware is already there and some features could be implemented via firmware update, along other possible improvements: http://5dmark2.wordpress.com/2009/12/17/canon-firmware-updates/
We all know new cameras come with newer features, but it’s somewhat frustrating to see much more expensive models without some features that could be implemented (Manual audio gain missing in 1D Mark IV and 7D, but available on 5D Mark II and 60D is a clear example)
– One of the biggest concerns we have about newer models is: How good is the image quality (in video mode) of the 60D and T3i/600D vs. 5D Mark II? It seems the data rate in MBits/s of 60D (and probably T3i too) is lower than 5D Mark II and 7D, so more compression and less quality?
Every feedback on this regard will be very much appreciated!
Best regards,
5D Mark II Team
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Hi, my name is Dave Lewis and I was referred to you by Canon in regards to promoting Canon camera equipment and accessories from my website. I f you have an affiliate program and/or are interested in me referring customers to you through my website, please get in touch with me. Thanks
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Voice from Prague,
Hi, I’m on my way to make a decission,which camera is better to buy.Don’t know if nikon will realise some dslr’s like 5D,cause have many nikon mount lenses from ZEISS,anyway my choice is somewhere between 5D and 7D combined with zeiss compact primes2,maybe it seemsfunny to give such a question,but I need a good documentary result…..is the 7D enough for this kind of job?
this is my reel of documentary films http://www.michalhluchan.com
to get an opinion bout the standard of my work
thanks for respondin me
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Wow,this has to be one of the most fair reviews i have ever read. Thank you very much,it really helps hopefuls to make up their mind on what camera to buy. Thanks agan
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Hey Vincent, I am wondering how you started your photograph career? i want to pursue photography but i don’t know how to get my photography out there and get started???
Thanks!
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Hey Vince
Really need your help!??
This is an amazing review and for the last year ive researched hard in whats the better camera for me in regards for filming. I still cant decide over the 1d mark 4or 5D mark2. im a choreographer who will be filming a lot of dance as well as other things and was set on getting the 5D mark 2 then i noticed the trouble about focusing on a monitor. the price is irrelevant i just need the best picture quality. the crop factor did make think go with the 5D but is the 1D that badly cropped? i know you’ve mentioned pros and cons but really cant weigh it up. lastly i saw your page about lenses and which would you recommend for a top cinema quality wide angle zoom price between £1500-£3’500? really would appreciate an answer
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
June 24th, 2011 at 10:30 am
Go with the 5D MKII unless you see yourself shooting a lot of 60fps stuff then 1D. 5D MKII is best image quality hands down and amazing sensor – good luck!
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@Vincent Laforet, thanks for getting back you have no idea how many forums, videos and reviews ive read. Your videos are so inspiring and im tired of choreographing music videos and commercials with know real artistic freedom. so shooting my own work will be a last.
Lastly whats your top choice for wide/ultra wide(with little distortion) prime lens? and best all round zoom lens? thanks again really appreciate it.
check out some of my material on facebook(i have more videos) and youtube if you ever get the time. just time in my name simeon qsyea ohh and look out for street dance the movie 2 i have a cameo as myself lol
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
June 30th, 2011 at 5:57 pm
16~35mm or 14mm lens for ultra wide (see my lens section in the mygear section) – best general zoom: 24~70mm 2.8
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sorry last thing promise.
Is there real big advantages to shooting material in 60 fps?
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@Vincent Laforet, thanks again really appreciate it. Hope all your projects go well and all the best for the future sim
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Hi Vincent,
Just wonder if you have had a chance to try out the t3i and how does it compare to the 60D?
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Vincent: I am deeply impressed by your visual compositions — amazing ! But more notable: you write in a way that really seems to want to help others to learn and succeed.
I am just getting started, mostly with stills and found your camera reviews very useful. Currently have a T2i and would like to be able to enlarge my photos beyond what the T2i can do well — was thinking of getting the 7D but after reading your reviews I think the 5D is more appropriate — looking forward to a 5D Mk III with hopefully better focus!
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Hello Vincent! Thank you for your great work popularising HDSLR video making!!
A quick queston. Some say that Panasonic GH2 gives the same video quality as Canons do (even 5DMk2!). Because of the faster processor and because of that better image handling and less file compression. This is a bit confusing.
Best regards!
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
August 20th, 2011 at 11:00 am
There are a lot of opinions on this. Both cameras look different but very good to me. I’m still a fan of the 5D MKII for a number of reasons – notably the lenses and the accessories available for it relative to the GH2.
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Rishi Rocker Reply:
June 20th, 2013 at 4:59 am
@Vincent Laforet, did u try the raw footage hack provided by magic lantern on mark III ? Being an indie, m more into squeezing much out of available stuff. But m afraid if camera gets bricked. Can u also try such stuff and share ur opinion ? Thank you.
Rishi
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
June 20th, 2013 at 10:48 pm
I can’t justify the risk on any production – it’s a wonderful development though!
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@Vincent Laforet, thank you.
I hope I wont regret buying my 60D =)
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Hi vincent i admire you work i totally en love with the canon cameras i already buy for my the 60D but really i don’t know how to use properly and i see you don’t have a lot of information about tha specific camera, i guess maybe u don’t use so often with ur experience how can use properly and is good for video or ur opinion plsss, what lenses or what to do better with this camera thankks in advance and sorry in latin(spanish) person and maybe i don’t express my self well thanks in advance and glad for here to you thanks again
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
September 8th, 2011 at 12:23 am
Apply the same things I say for the 7D to the 60D. I don’t talk about it because I haven’t used it on a shoot to be honest. I don’t like to talk about things I don’t use enough of to become somewhat of an “expert” on.
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You mentioned what ASA you would stop at on the 5D could you also include what ASA speed the 7D tops out at as far as acceptable noise.
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
September 8th, 2011 at 12:19 am
640 ASA IMO
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man, this list is amazing. It totally made me decide to buy the S95 instead of the G12, and for all the reviews I’ve been reading, it’s the smartest of choices.
And, as usual, great posts and great material.
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
September 8th, 2011 at 12:19 am
Appreciate it!
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Great stuff! Really helpful!
Would you recommend the t3i over the 60D?
For a person who wants to shoot video and photography. More of a filmmaker but shoots stills on the side.
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Vincent,
I have a 60d and have been using it for about a year now. One of my clients has requested that we add a second camera, so I’m trying to decide what to get.
I’m leaning toward getting another 60d because it uses the same memory cards and I have had good luck with the 60d so far, but at the same time I would also consider the 7d because it can output to a monitor.
My biggest concern is the overheating. I have never had the 60d overheat, and if the 7d is more likely to do so, then I would most likely rule it out. How much of an issue is this?
Thanks.
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Dear Mr. Laforet,
Please give me some insight on this problem because it could potentially save me money and time.
I have had my T3i for about 4 months now. Basically, all of a sudden (I film skateboard videos) I will go out for a video shoot and I will only be able to record about 45 seconds of 60fps footage before the buffer level fills and stops the recording. This also happens with the 30fps setting but slower. I use a 16gb Class 10 SD card and have cleared all camera setting and tried everything. Do you know if this is normal or should I send it in for repair? Thank you for your time and knowledge.
-Sam
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
October 26th, 2011 at 1:31 pm
Let’s see if anyone else chimes in. I have NOT seen this problem and my first guess is that it has to do w/ your CF cards. Regardless of their rating – you should try a different type of card first and see if the problem persists. If it does – THEN send the camera in for repair. Cheers – v
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Kevin Seidule Reply:
January 3rd, 2012 at 1:46 pm
Had this problem too and it was the card.
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Hi!
Does your 24-70mm stay at f2.8 at 70mm? Or do you sense a difference? I think i loose about 1 stop from 24 – 70.. I havent found any thread on this anywhere!
Very nice read!!
Jk
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
November 29th, 2011 at 10:25 pm
Not it’s 2.8 the whole way.
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Thanks Vincent,
the gear section is really helful.
Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
Great work again.
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Hi Vincent,
I really need your help!
So I have been waiting for some kind of announcement for the Canon 5D mkIII. I have made several shorts thanks to equipment provided by my college but really want to start making films right away. In the meantime I have come up with great screenplays and concepts but am torn on when I should pull the trigger and buy a camera.
I do not know if I should buy a Canon 7D with really great lenses and upgrade to the new 5D in a year or so or whether I should buy the 5D mkii now with ok lenses.
I love the low light capability of the 5D but how is it taking stills compared to the 7D?
If you could help in anyway it would be greatly appreciated.
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
December 12th, 2011 at 12:28 am
The 7D or 60D are great cameras – I always recommend you invest in lenses – those are great long term investments regardless of the camera you use them on now or later.
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Are there hands on videos online that help people starting out how to properly get focus with the 5D mark II?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
December 22nd, 2011 at 5:51 pm
Check out the Creative Live series on the top right of the page..
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Hi Vincent
Where does the C300 fit into this? Would you take it over the 5dmk ii right now?
Thanks
Sam
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
December 26th, 2011 at 3:13 pm
Yes – for sure. But very different price point of course – v
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Thanks for the great info
one question, in terms of video; how different is the 5D Mark II from 60D? I’m currently using 60D with Magic Lantern and I’m pretty satisfied with it, but most people claim that 5D Mark II is in a total different class. I have never tried it though, would like to know more about the differences.
Thanks in advance,
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
January 7th, 2012 at 6:08 am
It’s superior in terms of color and gradations- not night and day though the 60D holds its own.
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@Vincent Laforet, Thanks – will start saving then!
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Hey Vincent,
What do you think about the downloadable Technicolor CineStyle Mode for the Canon 5D mk ii? Would you suggest using it and then color grade?
Jim
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
January 7th, 2012 at 6:02 am
Wrote about it on the blog earlier – https://blog.vincentlaforet.com/2011/04/29/technicolor-cinestyle-profile-available-for-canon-5dmkii/
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Hello Vincent,
I am getting old and portability seems the way to go for me at the moment. I currently shoot stills with the 1DMKIV and I am slowly getting to shooting video. BTW, your “introduction” video was gigantically helpful. Anyhow, I recently purchased the Sony NEX-5n and so far I am blown away with the outcome of the video quality. It can compete with the 1DMKIV in low light performance. Have you tried Sony’s NEX-5n and what you think about it? Thanks.
Cheers,
Robert
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
January 19th, 2012 at 8:43 am
I haven’t had a chance to try the Sony out Robert – so I can’t make a comment on it. All of these cameras are slowly getting more and more impressive…
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Great Blog Vincent!!!
Your videos and MyGear section are the bomb!
One question, i always thought the 5DM2 shoots 60fps 🙁 but it doesn’t. Now that i have it, plus the 24-70, and i want to shoot music videos, i am looking for the closest “can shoot 60fps at 720p” DSLR that looks like the 1080p of the 5DM2. I know i cannot afford a 1080p 60fps camera, so i guess going for an upscaled 720p is my only chance. Ideas on this one?
Greets,
Miro
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
January 30th, 2012 at 3:46 pm
That’s one of the major drawbacks of that camera… the nearest thing: the 1D MKIV or 7D – though I don’t like the way the image can get pixelated w/ either of those bodies to be honest…
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Vincent,
Do you think the Canon C300 is worth buying at this price US$16.000?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
February 9th, 2012 at 3:39 pm
I don’t expect the price to go down for years. It’s a fantastic camera and I’d recommend it on any docu shoot as one of the best out there period. It’s a contender in the cine and tv world as well for sure.
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Vincent, any idea why prices on the 7D have risen $300 – $400 across the board recently?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
February 15th, 2012 at 9:35 am
Yes – it’s all related to the Yen, the earthquake last year, and the Thailand floods… everything is going up in terms of price.
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I just stumbled upon your web site/blog and find it interesting, useful and even refreshing. For what it’s worth, I just did an extensive comparison between my workhorse 1Ds II and my recently purchased travel camera, the t3i (same camera as the t2i, but with some feature and ergonomic improvements).
Bottom line: resolution and overall image quality are identical. It’s almost impossible to tell which camera took the picture when looking at prints. I’m not saying or suggesting that the t3i is equal to or better than the 1Ds II as an overall photography tool (AF accuracy and speed alone set the two cameras apart), but it is damn fine camera. In the right hands, it produces pro-quality images, as does the t2i.
If either of these small Canons were full frame, they would provide roughly 39MP of resolution (if my match is correct; someone might want to double-check that number) and a truck-load of cropping room. How far we’ve come in such a short period of time!
Still loving my 1Ds II,
Steve G.
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
February 18th, 2012 at 12:46 pm
Your math is off unfortunately – and you’ll find the t3i is 18 Megapixels on a 1.6X crop factor chip whereas the 1Ds MKII is a 16.7 MP but has a full frame sensor and a significantly better AF system and weatherproofing etc- but it IS a few generations back from the t3i. You are comparing a once top of the line camera to a recent amateur model that is a few important years more recent…
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Hi, I’ve been doing some stuff with the Panasonic GH2, have you ever worked with that Camera? I suppose it has a smaller sensor, what do you think?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
February 23rd, 2012 at 1:16 pm
I like the camera a lot – but find that getting lens adaptors etc is not as easy for me as a Canon shooter.
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@Vincent Laforet,
Perhaps you misunderstood what I was saying. I was saying that the 18MP crop sensor of the t3i … if extrapolated to full frame dimensions with the same pixel density … would end up as a 39MP sensor. And I own the 1Ds II. Have for some time. I know it’s full frame, weatherproofed, etc. I’ve compared the t3i and 1Ds II cameras for IQ and they are, for all intents and purposes, identical IQ-wise … but, overall, not as tools.
– Steve
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
February 23rd, 2012 at 1:14 pm
Yes – but there’s no winning this argument given that they’re from different generations of sensor/processor technology. Normally comparing a 1Ds body to a t3i body is a non starter for a multitude of reasons – most notably sensor size and the resulting depth of field.
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I’m looking forward to your review of the Canon 60D.
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Vincent-
Thanks so much for all of your forums, websites, and videos designed to help out DSLR users. Whenever I have any question at any time about my DSLR needs, I always know where I can turn to. Thanks ahead of time for that!
I’m mostly a video guy, that being the reason that I use a 7D. We mostly shoot weddings, but when inspiration strikes or opportunity calls and we’re into it, we’ll shoot whatever gets us interested. I’ve been blown away by the 7D in terms of its video capabilities since the day I made the purchase about 2 years ago, and am so comfortable with the 7D that I bought another body just as backup.
The ONLY issue I have with my video workhorse is that my stills are lacking in terms of quality. Along with wedding and event video we also shoot stills, and I’m shooting on a 7D for video, which I am thrilled about, and I’m shooting stills on a 7D, which kind of bums me out when I can clearly see the superior image quality of the stills shot on my partners 5d mk ii. I mean I know it’s due to the 7D’s cropped sensor, so at this point, I am seriously looking to invest in either a 5D mk ii or 1D mk iv, pretty much strictly as a body used for shooting stills.
My gut is telling me to go with the 5D b/c of the massive sensor, and not to mention the more attractive (cheaper) price point…but that 60 fps on the 1D is pretty huge in my eyes. I know I just said that this camera body would be almost strictly for shooting stills, but If i’m in a bind and need to shoot some video and that is the only camera I have, I want to have the flexibility of variable frame rates up to 60. Personally I would feel incomplete without the option!!
We DO shoot a lot of action, so 60 fps when conformed to a 24p timeline in cinema tools is just about as buttery as it gets…and 24p action shots, as I’m sure you know, come out looking a little sluggish and “traily”. For example, shooting surfing (which we shoot a lot, we live and operate on the island of Oahu, Hawaii) in 24p comes out OK, but shooting surfing in 60p and conforming it just really adds whole new dimension to your edits. You know this firsthand, shooting “First Look” with JOB at pipeline over here a few years back.
I was just hoping you could point me in the right direction. If I were to go with the 1D mk iv, would my stills be even better quality than my 7D stills? I completely forgot what the crop factor on the 1D is…AND if I went with my gut (which has just gotten stronger writing all of this hah!) and purchased the 5d mk ii, would the image quality afforded by the full-frame sensor really make it a worthy purchase over a 60p capable body?
Really appreciate any feedback you can give me on this one. Sorry to be so long-winded!!!
Cheers!
Sean
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
February 28th, 2012 at 11:04 pm
Sean – you should be looking at the 1Dx at this point – NOT the 1D MKIV – that will give you the best of both worlds at this point… incredible high iso performance for both stills and video and nearly the same Megapixels as the 5D MKII – does that help?
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@Vincent Laforet, Have you seen the awesome film quality when the GH2 is hacked?? canon looks like 720p max besides those videos whit the 100-176Mbps the hack offers to the GH2, and you can pop on cinema scope lenses on the GH2 and Carl Ziess lenses too, i see a lot of ppl tip toeing around this little cam, i see your love for canon, but as a film maker what to you really think !?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
February 24th, 2012 at 2:37 pm
It’s a great cam – but all of the accessories and knowledge have gravitated towards the Canon line of cameras and that’s hard to ignore to be honest – it’s actually quite a determining factor.
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I very recently purchased a SmallHD DP4 and I found something which you top three guys (hurlbut, bloom, and of course you) probably know. I made a test with two 7Ds and we exposed using the false colors of the DP4, a handheld sekonic meter, and the camera´s internal meter. A lot of times I had shot using the internal meter as a reference of exposure, but it turns out both cameras delivered footage ithat was around two thirds of a stop to a full stop underexposed. We checked the footage on vectorscopes and you could see the difference plainly. I had always SUSPECTED the 7D footage was a little low on gamma, but only after these tests I know I have to shoot one full stop overexposed for a proper exposure, if I am using the internal meter. Also we found a dynamic range of 5 stops from the darkest to the brightest areas. Are these tests on par with your experiences using the 7D?
Oh, by the way, a while back I asked about 17 inch macbook pro space on the Petrol Cam n Go. I bought it and have shot two documentaries with it. Great bag, thanks for the tip!
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
February 28th, 2012 at 11:02 pm
Ruben – I have found lightmeters and the internal meters to be TOTALLY unreliable w/ these HDSLRS – all I go by are the waveform monitors off of my Marshall monitors / other and I always have a DIT check the footage (even when I don’t have a DIT – i.e. me…) on an important shoot…
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Hey Vincent,
I’m looking into a small camera to take traveling in asia (in addition to my 5dmkii) and I was considering the gopro hero 2, but I was thinking the Canon s100 probably has better video, and much more flexibility for stills.
I have two questions… I know you often use the gopro hero, but do you use your point and shoot often? Does the gopro 2 have any advantages over the s100, aside form being easily mountable, and waterproof?
Thanks!
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
February 28th, 2012 at 3:16 pm
S100 for taking normal pictures hands down – but if you want to “mount” the camera on a vehicle, bike, helmet – the Go Pro is the way to go especially for video.
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@Vincent Laforet,
No argument here. The t3i and 1Ds II are from two different worlds and designed for totally different kinds of shooters and environments. Still, for travel and casual photography, the t3i is hard to beat. Stick a very good-to-great lens in front of that cam and the results are pretty impressive, even at ISO 3200.
– Steve
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Although I really like your blog and find it very useful, now I need a bit more personal advice 🙂
So far I only shot stills, therefore I am not really experienced in moving images. But now I will start to shoot action choreography, mostly hand held (either with fig rig or glidecam, in various situations, low light as well…). I am just about to change my gear and there are a few questions I can not resolve myself 🙂
I can not decide whether I should choose 7D or 5D – My concern about the 5D is the lack of choice between different frame rates, but not sure whether I’m going to need this option for my purpose.
I already have a 24-70L lens, so the 5D would be a perfect match (except if I need more fps option?), but also not sure about the image stabilization – since I will shoot mostly hand held, is it important to use IS lens?
If I have to change to 7D – which is also cheaper – I’m afraid I won’t be able to use the 24-70L that much because of the crop factor…
thanks for any comment in advance!
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
February 28th, 2012 at 11:01 pm
I’m with you on the 5D – it’s a tough call to make to be honest – and I can’t make it for you. Personally I have never owned a 7D if that answers anything (but I do use it when I need 720p out of the HDMI during record…) You could always get a cheap 17~55 2.8 IS to cover your range on the 7D. Personally I say get a 5D MKII and have a superb still camera to boot… but keep in mind it’s nearly 4 years old…
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@Vincent Laforet, Yeah, totally agree with you on that, Although for the my DP’s peace of mind, his lightmeter readings where very consistent with the false colors on the monitor. We are now just double and triple checking to make sure. Once again, thanks for your advice!
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
March 1st, 2012 at 10:03 pm
My pleasure!
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Hi Vincent,
are you going to test the Nikon D800 or D800e?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
March 15th, 2012 at 10:15 am
Unlikely – unless Nikon sends me one to test…
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Nice site, cheers for posting.Just wish to say your article is as amazing. The clearness in your post is just spectacular and I can assume you’re an expert on this subject.
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Thank you for every other great post. Where else could anyone get that type of info in such a perfect approach of writing? I’ve a presentation subsequent week, and I’m on the search for such info.
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It’s actually a great and useful piece of info. I’m happy that you simply shared this useful info with us. Please keep us up to date like this. Thanks for sharing.
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Dear Vincent,
Which camera is better for shooting video in low light conditions:
1D Mark IV or 5D Mark III?
Tanxx
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
April 27th, 2012 at 6:40 am
5D MKIII by a 1 stop+ margin – v
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This blog has been a fantastic resource for me in writing my dissertation for my Masters in Television Production.
I shoot on a canon 1D and 5D and am currently writing my dissertation about the trends in DSLR filming, commissioning and how this impacts on the role of the cameraman.
Would you be able to answer a few questions in the coming weeks?
Thank you
James
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
August 9th, 2012 at 10:37 pm
I’m on vacation! I’ll be back in mid september after a few jobs – but some are now lining up for mid sept as well
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Dear Vincent,
This Blog Rocks!!!
I have a question about using a monitor and the new 5D mkIII. You write a lot about how the HDMI output quality drops to 420p when pressing record on the 5D mkII – Is this still an issue with the new mkIII?
Cheers
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
August 9th, 2012 at 10:35 pm
No – it’s fixed w/ the MKIII!
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Any chance on getting your thoughts on the 5d mkiii
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
August 15th, 2012 at 4:12 pm
One of the best cameras out there – heads above the 5D MKII.
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Que tal, yo que estoy por comprar una camara que me dices de la nikon D7000??? o solo es por gusto que usas Canon?
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Thanks Vincent. You are the solution to lots of my issues.
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
August 29th, 2012 at 3:43 am
Thank you!
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Hi Vincent !
Thank you very much for all your efforts on the blog !
It’s always instructive and beautiful to look at your work.
Have you ever shoot whit the Canon EOS 1D X or 1D C ?
Mathieu
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
October 3rd, 2012 at 7:18 am
YEs – they are both impressive in their own right (and both the same camera actually w/ different firmware.)
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Hi Vincent. I have a budget question for you. If you had a budget of $30,000 to buy your own equipment for filmmaking, what would it be? Hypothetically, let’s just say you were starting out. What are the essentials, such as a camera, audio, lenses, etc.? Thanks!
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
October 18th, 2012 at 9:32 pm
You should look through the gear section – this would take me a few hours and while I wish I could help- I don’t have the time or knowledge enough about what you to give it a go. I hope you understand.
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I am really impressed after watch those videos…
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Hey Vincent,
Do you have any good recommendations for attaching a gopro to your redrock setup?
Thanks!
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
December 9th, 2012 at 3:04 am
A simple 1/4 20 stud works fine with a cage or any 1/4 20 mount on the new C300 / 5D Redrock cages of course.
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Hey Vincent,
Thank you so much for all the great information. So no thoughts on film cameras in your bag?
I just transitioned over from Hasselblad to a 5DmkII and it has been interesting.
Thanks
K
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
December 21st, 2012 at 10:22 am
I haven’t shot film (w/ a few exceptions) since 1999. But that being said film or digital cameras shouldn’t matter. In fact Hasselblads are in the same shape category as the Epic in many ways.
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Hi Vincent,
Any thoughts on Sony Nex-7 for shooting videos?
thx
jp
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
February 18th, 2013 at 6:47 am
Haven’t played with it..
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Hello Vincent..
One Question video wise.. 6d or mark iii? i cant find the reviews on the gear page for those cameras.. (they appear to be the same, except for the quantity of focus points on the mark iii)
thanks in advanced!
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
May 2nd, 2013 at 12:16 am
6D for stills. 5D MKIII for better AF + better video.
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JG Reply:
October 28th, 2013 at 7:07 pm
@Vincent Laforet, is the $1500 diffrence worth the extra plus in video?
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
December 14th, 2013 at 12:42 am
I assume you’re talking 6D vs MKIII right? It depends: if you’re shooting for yourself, probably not. If you’re going to broadcast, 1080p on the web, or the silver screen: ABSOLUTELY. The 6D has moire similar to the 5D MKII whereas the 5D MKIII is a huge jump forward and close to perfect.
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Hi Vincent!
Thanks for your advices, always are helpful. One of the reasons I got a 5D MkII was because of you three years ago. and I love this cam! Now, I decided to upgrade to the MkIII but I do not see much input from you about it. Do you recommend me this one?
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Thanks Vincent
really amazing blog and I found it today!!
and what about the canons younger brother 6d??
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In your review, you mention that the Mark iii does not shot video – yet here in comments seem to suggest it does. Could you clarify? Many thanks
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Vincent Laforet Reply:
November 26th, 2013 at 10:52 pm
It DOES shoot video!
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Thanks a lot Vincent! I am always use Canon for my photography, any thoughts on Canon Vixia HF G30 Camcorder.
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Thanks a lot. this blog really helpful for me. i just started learn how to be a photographer
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Very good blog, see also http://goo.gl/Cf7pJF
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This is dope, thanks so much for this!
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Hi there Vincent, I was hoping to get your advise on some equipment I am needing. I own a Canon EOS 5D Mark ii. I am wanting to practice short films for wedding videography. I need to know all the essentials i should get to be able to do this! Your help would be much appreciated!
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Thanks for the post Vincent. I have my own “Canon VIXIA HF R700” it provides me best quality pictures and videos.
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I must say , you have a amazing gear of cameras. It seems like you have researched a lot on this. It’s really appreciable.
Keep it up 🙂
Looking forward for more post!!
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Wow !!
Thanks a lot for updating your gear section. It seems like you have done a lot of research on this. It is highly appreciable.
Keep it up 🙂
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