My Gear: Cameras

VL: This is the camera that started it all of course – the entire HDDSLR Craze in the end of 2008 with the short film "Reverie" below. 

PROS: This is still one of the largest video sensors in the world (a full-frame 24mm X 36mm sensor which is a larger surface than the majority of "35mm film cameras" as it turns out as many of those cameras run the film vertically through the frame) – and that gives you incredibly shallow depth of field and a look that cannot be matched by 99% of the digital cinema cameras out there. While not as good as the 1D MKIV in low light (see below) – it still does quite well up to 1250 ASA in my opinion – which far exceeds the majority of other cameras and opens up new worlds (and low light opportunities) for most filmmakers. Of all the HDDSLR cameras that Canon offers – this is the one that continues to produce the best skin tones, colors and gradations of tones and the least aliasing. This is THE go to camera – with the exception of the facts listed below – which can be significant to some and less important to others. Personally I shoot anything I can with this camera still.

CONS: The camera is nearly two years old now. And Canon has added some important functions to this breed (see cameras below.) The #1 issue w/ this camera – is that when you hit the "record" button – the output from the HDMI drops to less than standard definition. This makes it incredibly difficult to pull focus (if not close to impossible if you’re not shooting WIDE open) off of an external monitor. Clients and 1st ACs cannot tell if the image is sharp. 1st ACs (as they pull focus) will have to rely on the traditional methods – such as marks, judging distance on their own, Cinetape, and clearly marked Cinema Lenses that have clear distances marked – i.e. you cannot easily use a Canon lens to pull focus. This camera does not shoot faster than 30 fps (or 24fps for most of us.) i.e. there is not 60 fps mode as with the cameras below. Lastly – the autofocus system (for still photographers) is the same system that was found in the original 5D – therefore it is close to 5 years old relative to newer systems.

Reverie from Vincent Laforet on Vimeo.

This was the first 1080p video widely released that was shot with the Canon 5D MKII.

Description (from Canon USA): Canon’s update to the wildly popular full frame EOS 5D is here, and it’s better than ever. The EOS 5D Mark II has a stunning 21.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor with DIGIC 4 Image Processor, a vast ISO Range of 100-6400 (expandable to ISO L: 50, H1: 12800 and H2: 25600), plus EOS technologies like Auto Lighting Optimizer and Peripheral Illumination Correction. It supports Live View shooting, Live View HD videos, and more. It can shoot up to 3.9 fps, has 9 AF points plus 6 AF assist points, a new 98% coverage viewfinder, a 3.0-inch Clear View LCD (920,000 dots/VGA) and a rugged build.

• 21.1 Megapixel Full-Frame Sensor
• 3.0" High Resolution LCD Display
• Live View Mode
• 1080p Movie Mode
• Dust & Weather-Resistant
• Self Cleaning Sensor
• Broad ISO Range (50-25600)
• 3.9 fps Burst Mode

VL: This is likely one of the best low-light cameras on the market today. I shot a short "Nocturne" in downtown Los Angeles in a very dark (sodium-vapor lights) section of the city – without adding a single artificial light. This was a proof-of-concept film – to show what these low-light sensors will allow us to do with natural (in this case terribly low) light. This brings up and interesting debate on shooting with 100% natural light – as there are many pros and cons of working with natural light. If it’s naturally amazing so will your shots be – however if the light turns on you and you have no tools to help shape/eliminate it – the production will suffer tremendously. 

PROS: Incredible low light performance – on what is effectively a Super-35mm sized sensor (30% smaller than the 5D MKII or a 1.3x crop factor.) As a still camera this is a stallion – 10fps and incredible autofocus. This camera is built to last, and is weather-sealed to resist very difficult environments. The design is focus on professional photographers as their everyday camera that will survive day to day abuse. The low light performance is stunning. You can shoot at up to 3200 ASA and perhaps a little higher without much hesitation – buying you well more more than one stop over the 5D MKII. The camera outputs a full 720p signal while you record. This makes it possible to pull focus off of external monitors and play to external monitors (video village) in high definition which is a HUGE factor in any production. You can now focus "live" and see if the image is sharp on 6.5 inch Marshall monitor (see Monitors section) or a large 60" television for the client.

CONS: The only negative of this camera is the 30% smaller sensor – which is frankly still HUGE relative to almost all other sensors out there. But there is one thing that I and others have noticed: aliasing, moire, and image quality in general is not as good as the 5D MKII (likely due to the lower native resolution of this still camera’s sensor relative to the 5DMKII.) Skin tones and gradations between light and dark will not be as smooth as with the 5DMKII. While this camera can shoot as high as 60fps which can lead to some very nice "slow-motion" effects/looks – it also tends to "moire" or have aliasing issues that are more prevalent in that mode (the real technical term for this issue is called "binning.") So shooting at 60 fps with shallow depth or solid colors/skies will lead to excellent results – but don’t dare shoot this camera at 60 fps at f11 with the subject in front of a brick wall – or you’ll see a rainbow of colors in your background. This is also the priciest of all 3 current Canon HDDSLR pro cameras.

Nocturne from Vincent Laforet on Vimeo.

Canon 1D MKIV – 1080p video shot at 6400 ASA (some scenes were shot at 3200 ASA) – with all available light. No outside light sources were used.

Description (from Canon USA): The Canon EOS 1D Mark IV offers advanced photographic and video imaging possibilities for demanding professionals. Boasting a 16.1 Megapixel APS-H sized sensor, Dual DIGIC 4 Image Processors, and a completely redesigned 45-point AF system, the 1D Mark IV builds upon the success of the legendary 1D series with expanded ISO performance (up to ISO 102,400), HD video recording, and 10 frames-per-second continuous shooting.

• 16.1 Megapixels
• 3.0" LCD
• High Sensitivity (ISO 102,400)
• 10fps Burst Mode
• 45 Point AF System
• HD Video Recording
• Selectable Video Exposure + Frame Rates
• Dust & Weather Resistant
• 100% Viewfinder
• Self Cleaning Sensor

VL: This is THE top of the line still camera from Canon that offers the best weather-proofing, Autofocus, and image quality in terms of resolution. While I have come to use the 5D MKII almost exclusively (better low light performance than this camera) it should be noted that the AF on this camera (for stills of course) is significantly superior to the 5D MKII which has a 4+ year-old AF sensor.This camera does not shoot video. 

Description (from Canon USA): The Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III is an engineering tour de force which, true to the EOS-1 legacy, redefines the state of the art in no uncertain terms. An entirely new 21.1-megapixel full-frame Canon CMOS sensor delivers astounding image quality and creates new photographic possibilities. Dual "DIGIC III" Image Processors work in tandem to speed up data handling and camera operation, while further refining imaging performance. Tough, high-durability body and shutter designs, combined with the unique EOS Integrated Cleaning System, set new standards for professional dependability. Cutting-edge features-such as a large 3.0-inch LCD monitor with Live View Function, and a fast, precise 45-point AF system-make the EOS-1Ds Mark III powerful and versatile. And, of course, the EOS-1Ds Mark III is part of the unparalleled EOS System, which, with more than 50 EF lenses, 15 interchangeable focusing screens, and extensive wireless remote control and lighting accessories, is the most advanced and powerful digital photography system in the world.

• 21.1 Megapixel
• Full-Frame CMOS Sensor
• 3.0" LCD with Live View
• 5 fps Burst
• Dual DIGIC III Image Processor
• Self-Cleaning Sensor
• Fast AF system
• Picture Style Settings
• Weather Resistant Body
• Accepts UDMA CF Cards

VL: Besides being one of the very best still cameras in its price class (this is THE Camera I recommend to anyone looking to buy a still camera) – this is an EXCELLENT camera to purchase if you want to try your hand at filmmaking with HDDSLR cameras. The price and functionality are right.I would use this camera as my go to camera if it weren’t for two things: The sensor is 60% smaller than the 5D MKII (1.6x crop factor) and as a result the low-light performance is on par to slightly inferior to the 5D MKII and clearly inferior to the 1D MKIV. That being said – we’re setting pretty high standards here. For most – the quality coming out of this camera bill be relatively stunning when compared to your camcorder and many other DSLRs out there. There is one golden rule with any camera sensor: the smaller the size of the sensor – the more noise you will get. (That’s why point an shoot cameras never do very well in low light on average.) See "The Cabbie Below" – and you’ll still find it did very well in low light (although additional cinema lighting was used) and that the "look" still offers relatively shallow depth of field. 

PROS: Perfect price point for a student or advanced amateur – not to mention many productions out there. While the sensor is 60% smaller than the 5DMKII’s sensor – most cinema lenses will cover the full size of the sensor – so you can use Zeiss’s Lightweight Zoom for example – which is a significant factor for many filmmakers out there. The sensors of the 5DMKII and 1D MKIV are too large for the majority of cinema lenses out there – and will result in a vignetted image (or worse.) This camera also outputs 720p when recording which is a decisive advantage overt he 480p output of the 5DMKII during record. It also has a dedicated video record button which is a plus.

CONS: The small sensor is not as "amazing" as the 5DMKII – both in terms of depth of field (you have more of it) and low light performance (it’s noisier.) That being said – it will make pulling focus 60% easier… which is a big plus for drama and/or documentary pieces. There is is much greater chance of you seeing this camera overheat in video mode (on a long shoot or in a hot environment.) The display will give you a heat warning giving you time to cool down the camera or switch which is nice. But I have yet to see a heat warning on either the 5DMKII or 1DMKIV – ever. This camera is not built to the same professional specs at the other bodies above.

Chapter 1: The Cabbie from Vincent Laforet on Vimeo.

Description (from Canon USA): With a host of brand new features designed to enhance every facet of the photographic process, from still images to video, the new EOS 7D represents a whole new class of camera. Made to be the tool of choice for serious photographers and semi-professionals, the EOS 7D features an all-new 18.0 Megapixel APS-C size CMOS sensor and Dual DIGIC 4 Image Processors, capturing tremendous images at up to ISO 12800 and speeds of up to 8 fps. The EOS 7D has a new all cross-type 19-point AF system with improved AI Servo II AF subject tracking and user-selectable AF area selection modes for sharp focus no matter the situation.

• 18.0 Megapixels
• 3.0" LCD
• HD Video Recording
• Selectable Video Exposure + Frame Rates
• Dust & Weather Resistant
• 100% Viewfinder
• Self Cleaning Sensor
• High Sensitivity (ISO 12800)
• 8fps Burst Mode

VL: While this is missing many of the "pro" features that the other cameras have (and I would recommend you purchase a 7D over this model) I have to admit that this is nonetheless an impressive little camera. In fact I know people who have opted for this camera over the 7D as their personal camera – people who know about video. I’ve used it only once – but that doesn’t meet it’s not a perfect starting camera that fits much more easily in many people’s budgets! 

Description (from Canon USA): The new flagship of the EOS Rebel line, Canon EOS Rebel T2i brings professional EOS features into an easy to use, lightweight digital SLR that’s a joy to use. Featuring a class-leading 18.0 Megapixel CMOS Image Sensor and increased light sensitivity for low light photography, the EOS Rebel T2i also has an advanced HD Movie mode for gorgeous Full HD movies. Able to capture up to 3.7 frames per second, it’s ready to go the minute it’s picked up. Advanced Live View, a new wide-area screen, plus features like Canon’s brilliant Auto Lighting Optimizer and Highlight Tone features ensure brilliant photos and movies, easily.

• 18.0 MP CMOS (APS-C) Sensor
• Full HD 1080p Video
• Advanced Live View
• 3.0" 1.04 Million Dot Clear View LCD
• Up to 3.7 fps RAW, JPEG, or RAW+JPEG
• ISO 100-6400, Expandable to 12800
• 63-Zone Metering / 9-Point AF System
• Compatible with SD, SDHC, and SDXC
• Eye-Fi Menu Status Indicator Support

VL: This is an impressive little camera – I haven’t had a chance to actually test it out yet but will update this section as soon as I do.  

Description (from Canon USA): With the new EOS 60D DSLR, Canon gives the photo enthusiast a powerful tool fostering creativity, with better image quality, more advanced features and automatic and in-camera technologies for ease-of-use. It features an improved APS-C sized 18.0 Megapixel CMOS sensor for tremendous images, a new DIGIC 4 Image Processor for finer detail and excellent color reproduction, and improved ISO capabilities from 100 – 6400 (expandable to 12800) for uncompromised shooting even in the dimmest situations. The new Multi-control Dial enables users to conveniently operate menus and enter settings with a simple touch. The EOS 60D also features an EOS first: A Vari-angle 3.0-inch Clear View LCD (1,040,000 dots) monitor for easy low- or high-angle viewing. An improved viewfinder, a number of new in-camera creative options and filters, plus HDMI output for viewing images on an HDTV all make the EOS 60D invaluable for the evolving photographer.

• 18MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
• 1920 x 1080 HD Video Capture
• SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Card Slot
• Vari-Angle Clear View 3.0" Flip-Out LCD
• DIGIC 4 Image Processor
• 5.3 fps Continuous Shooting
• Works with all Canon EF and EF-S Lenses
• ISO 6400 – Expandable to 12800
• HDMI Output to HDTV
• In-Camera Editing Options

VL: For many this is the go to point and shoot camera – I know a lot of people who swear by this camera and it is indeed incredibly impressive. Basically it’s the closest you’re going to get to having an actual DSLR camera – with a point and shoot. That being said – it’s a bit bulky for me – and I’m a much bigger fan of the S95 below. My rule is: if it’s smaller and lighter, you’re much more likely to have it on you at all times and never miss "that shot." 

Description: Canon’s G12 is just is the newest edition to the powerful G-Series line of professional compact cameras. This is the “DSLR” for those that don’t want to carry around the extra pounds. It replaces the High-Definition Canon G11 10MP Digital Camera that was released back in August of 2009 which boasted a 10-megapixel high sensitivity system with a DIGIC 4 image processor for advanced RAW shooting capabilities. The Canon G12 expands the functionality to include a broader range of shooting and recording modes, including RAW and JPEG.

VL: This is pretty much the dream point and shoot camera. One of the very best out there, and in my opinion THE point and shoot that everyone should get from the Canon line. Why? RAW support which is huge – you can fix your mistakes in Aperture/Lightroom/CS5 etc. 720p video – excellent! And a f/2.0 wideangle lens. Combine this with a camera that is smaller than a cigarette box – and I’m sold, end of story. I never bought the S90 because it did not have 720p video – I literally waited a year for this model to come out – and now I’m rushing out to buy one or two for the family. That’s how much I love this camera. 

Description (from Canon USA): The ultra-slim, ultra-intelligent S95 is loaded with all a serious photographer’s must-haves, including a bright f/2.0 Wide-Angle Lens and professional-style control ring for intuitive manual control. Canon’s HS SYSTEM is on board for spectacular performance and image quality in low light. And, new for a compact, the S95 incorporates Canon’s Hybrid IS for blur-free shooting even close-up. You’ll shoot stunning 720p HD video with stereo sound, then watch it immediately on your HDTV with the simple HDMI connection. If photography’s your passion, now is the perfect time to step up to PowerShot S95.

• 10.1 MP & RAW + JPEG Files
• 3.8x Optical Zoom – 28-105mm Equivalent
• 3.0" TFT Color Display
• DIGIC 4 Image Processor for Sharper Pics
• 1280x720p HD Video W/Stereo Sound
• Fast f/2.0-4.9 Lens for Low Light Photos
• Control Ring for Easy Manual Control
• Hybrid IS Image Stabilization
• ISO 80 to 3200
• 26 Shooting Modes for Better Control

World’s First Sony F3 S-Log Test from Next Level Pictures on Vimeo.

VL: This is currently the hottest camcorder super-35mm size camera out there.   With S-Log it’s incredible.    The ability to add PL lenses to this camera makes this a very big contender in the market.   Obviously this is in a different class (notably price) than HDSLRs – but is a feature packed camera.    It perfectly lives in the realm in between the Alexa /Epic and HDDSLRs in terms of function and price.  Video credit goes to the guys over at Next Level Pictures who were the first to test out Sony’s S-Log Firmware update for the F3.

Description (from Sony): The newest member of Sony’s CineAlta lineup, the PMW-F3 inherits DNA from the F35, which has been used for years in high-end digital cinematography, as well as most of the features and file-based workflow capabilities of PMW-EX1R and EX3 XDCAM EX solid-state memory camcorders.The PMW-F3 is equipped with the newly developed Exmor™ Super 35 CMOS image sensor, PL lens mount, and SxS card for 1920 x 1080 full-HD recording.The PMW-F3 features future expandability, including RGB 4:4:4 baseband output with S-LOG gamma for external recording which means it can be used in an HDCAM-SR™ workflow. It also offers a 3D-LINK option, which allows two camcorders to be controlled simultaneously for 3D stereoscopic shooting.

VL: In many ways this camera foreshadows the future of filmmaking. While the 5DMKII and other HDDLSRs have democratized filmmaking – this camera is the ultimate equalizer as it’s incredible ease-of-use, weight, size and waterproof housing (not to mention incredible array of suction-cup mounts, velcro mounts, helmet mounts etc etc) makes this the camera you can take ANYWHERE. 

PROS: The small size, waterproof housing, incredible low price, and ability to mount this thing anywhere with as little as velcro – will allow you to make films from incredibly original (never before-done) POVs (Points of views / angles.) If you can think it – try it! You can’t mount a 5D MKII on an motorcycle helmet without taking a lot of financial risk and tiring their neck muscles…

CONS: There is no way to lock exposure at this time. Also – there is no built in (physical) aperture – therefore you cannot control depth of field (and again exposure.) The compression quality is sometimes incredible – at others times a little less so. Nonetheless – I’ll never go onto a production without one or two of these.

GoPro HD – Skimboarding In A Storm! from Patrick Lawler on Vimeo.

Description (from GoPro): GoPro’s HD Helmet HERO is the world’s highest performance wearable 1080p HD video and still photo camera. Professional quality 1080p / 960p / 720p HD resolutions record at 30 and 60 frames per second (60 fps in 720p). Record up to 2.5 hours on a single charge and up to 9 hours total on a 32GB SD card (not included).

• 1080/960/720p HD
• 32GB SD/SDHC Card Slot
• 1.5" Status LCD
• 1/2.5" 5MP CMOS Sensor
• Fixed Focus Lens
• 5MP Still Photos
• USB or Optional Power Adapter Charging
• Mac and PC Compatible

Description (from GoPro):  The 3D HERO System allows you to combine two 1080p HD HERO cameras into a single housing to record 3D video and photos while simultaneously recording in 2D. A synchronization cable plugs into the rear HERO Port on both cameras to join them together, enabling both cameras to record video and photos in perfect synchronization. This is a requirement for professional quality 3D and is available only from GoPro.

The included 3D editing software-GoPro Cineform Studio-makes it easy to convert your 3D HERO System footage into viewable 3D files you can watch on your computer, online at sites like YouTube, and on your 2D or 3DTV at home.

• Mounting System is compatible with all GoPro accessories
• 3D waterproof housing is rated 180’/60m deep
• Record 3D and 2D video and photo files simultaneously
• Includes FREE easy-to-use 3D editing software—GoPro CineForm Studio