Yet Another Camera Thread

[notsoltd]

Hey guys, I know there has been quite a few of these camera threads but this one is a bit different. I have up to $1000 to spend but I will do what I can to save as much of that as I can lol!

Anyhow, I have been looking at a few camera's and I really like the Canon EOS Rebel T2i and frankly, it looks like that is what I'll end up getting. I just wanted to see you guys opinions. Is there anything that is a tad cheaper to give me the features I want?

Here is everything I want in my camera:

• Digital SLR
• 14.2 megapixels or more
• Burst mode
• Full HD video
• Can hook up a mic for better audio clarity

Also, I would like to get:

• Zoom lense along with the lense the camera comes with
• Memory card
• Carrying case

Thanks guys,
Rob

 

[CAndrew]

Hey guys, I know there has been quite a few of these camera threads but this one is a bit different. I have up to $1000 to spend but I will do what I can to save as much of that as I can lol!

Anyhow, I have been looking at a few camera's and I really like the Canon EOS Rebel T2i and frankly, it looks like that is what I'll end up getting. I just wanted to see you guys opinions. Is there anything that is a tad cheaper to give me the features I want?

Here is everything I want in my camera:

• Digital SLR
• 14.2 megapixels or more
• Burst mode
• Full HD video
• Can hook up a mic for better audio clarity

Also, I would like to get:

• Zoom lense along with the lense the camera comes with
• Memory card
• Carrying case

Thanks guys,
Rob

Like I always say to these threads: what will you be doing with the camera? Seriously, you guys all ask what kind of magic someone is doing if they just say "i need some tricks" but you cant think to do that when asking for camera help?

Just FYI the t3i is coming out, but the t2i is a great camera. If you are mainly using it for video and aren't going to bother using MF then I would suggest getting a sony A55 which has a translucent mirror that allows for EXTREMELY fast AF(and burst mode).You might even want to look into ILCs like a Sony NEX, which is what I use for a few reasons:
-DSLR viewfinders dont work when shooting video so I dont need that
-No viewfinder=smaller camera
-in the NEX-5's case, it has the same size sensor
-no viewfinder also means no complicated mirrors=faster AF(even though I dont use AF often)
If you are going to consider one and have time then I would suggest waiting a few months for the newer version which will have better video specs but will probably be more expensive and bulkier

Most cameras, even point and shoots, have 14MPs, and just look around for specs to see if they have mic inputs. If you're a more serious filmmaker recording audio seperately is usually the best way to go. Most DSLRs can be bought body only, and kits usually come with a zoom lens as the kit lens(like an 18-55). Some sites like B&H have promotions that will give you a memory card and case, but those might not be adequate for you. For HD video you want a class 10 SD card(if it uses an SD Card), and if you have multiple lenses you might want a larger case. If you are doing street magic you might not have time to change lenses around all the time.

 

[notsoltd]

I am going to use it for pictures and video's. That's why I am looking at a camera like the T2i and not a full on video camera. It will be used for street magic video's. I will also be using it to just take pictures for myself for memories with family, friends, on vacation etc.

EDIT: I just looked at the NEX and that is PERFECT! It has EVERYTHING I want PLUS it is small. I am going to buy one of those. One question though, is there much of a difference between 14.2mp and 18.0mp?

 

[CAndrew]

EDIT: I just looked at the NEX and that is PERFECT! It has EVERYTHING I want PLUS it is small. I am going to buy one of those. One question though, is there much of a difference between 14.2mp and 18.0mp?

The main difference is that 18.0 MP will get you more resolution for still images, but not video. Keep this in mind though. 0.3 MP is enoug hfor a 4x6 print. 14 MP is already like...3000 something by 4000 pixels. 18 does come in handy sometimes but since you're mainly doing video it wont matter. For pictures for your website and things then 14 is also fine. 14 can probably be used to print 2ftx3ft posters. 18mp is probably overkill for you and most people.

Keep in mind the nEX3 is 720p at...29.97 fps, NEX 5 is 1080 at 60i, which is 29.97 fps, and the NEX7 will be more video oriented but isnt coming out for a few months and will most likely be bigger(it has a OLED viewfiender i think) and more expensive. If you want a NEX now I would get e NEX 5 with 18-55 lens.

EDIT: have some test footage http://vimeo.com/19648140 and you can see original footage here http://vimeo.com/19687747 . One thing I have to point out is I shoot a flat image(low saturation/contrast) which makes original footage look like trash but keeps details so I can color grade better for the final. You can adjust the in camera settings to increase saturation and contrast if you want.

 

[notsoltd]

Is a huge difference in the video quality between the NEX3 and the NEX5? I'm not sure of the difference between 720p and 1080 at 60i. Reason I ask is because I could save some money by going with the 3 instead of the 5. I guess I am really asking, what are the justifications in spending the extra money on the 5?

 

[CAndrew]

Is a huge difference in the video quality between the NEX3 and the NEX5? I'm not sure of the difference between 720p and 1080 at 60i. Reason I ask is because I could save some money by going with the 3 instead of the 5. I guess I am really asking, what are the justifications in spending the extra money on the 5?

The 5 has a larger video resolution and also has a magnesium case instead of ...platsic i think. Thats about it. If you dont need 1080 then honestly the NEX 3 should be fine. Also I forgot one thing. The NEX line doesnt have a huge selection of lenses. You can buy an adapter that will let you use A mount lenses and AF with them if you want though. I am using some old Canon FD lenses w/ an adapter. But since you will be doing street magic then the 18-55 should work fine.

 

[notsoltd]

Cool. I am looking at getting the camera kit (with the 16mm lens and the 18-55 for $800), a soft carrying case, the leather body case (maybe), and the compact stereo microphone for right around $1,000.

I have a few more questions,

1.) do you think that the leather body case is necessary?
2.) Should I get memory cards instead of the leather body case?
3.) what size memory card do you think would be sufficient?
4.) do you think I should get a few rear lens caps and a body cap?

 

[CAndrew]

Cool. I am looking at getting the camera kit (with the 16mm lens and the 18-55 for $800), a soft carrying case, the leather body case (maybe), and the compact stereo microphone for right around $1,000.

I have a few more questions,

1.) do you think that the leather body case is necessary?
2.) Should I get memory cards instead of the leather body case?
3.) what size memory card do you think would be sufficient?
4.) do you think I should get a few rear lens caps and a body cap?

1.The Body case is more personal preference. If you like it then get it, if you dont dont. Im building a rig so I didnt bother with it since holding a camera the conventional way isnt the most ergonomic for videos.
2.You should always have memory cards.
3.I would go with at least 8 GB and Class 10 speed
4. Yes, get the rear lens cap and body cap. They come in handy and in my case since I use an adaptor with non NEX lenses I need them to keep my 18-55 lens clean.

One thing to note is it has a maximum clip length of 30 minutes each. Unless you are shooting an event longer than 30 minutes it will be no problem though.

 

[notsoltd]

Thanks a ton man you have literally answered all my questions...for now lol.

I am going to look over the NEX, T2i, and the A55 and make a decision but I've pretty much made my mind up about the NEX lol

 

[CAndrew]

Thanks a ton man you have literally answered all my questions...for now lol.

I am going to look over the NEX, T2i, and the A55 and make a decision but I've pretty much made my mind up about the NEX lol

Yea definetly look at different cameras and read reviews. Old reviews will say the NEX 5 isnt great because of its interface but a recent firmware update fixed it up and I like it alot now. The main things to consider about each: NEX 5 is small and has a large sensor. T2i is a good cheaper alternative to a 7D ands its a great overall camera(i believed it was named popular photography's camera of the year, but popular photography is for photography mainly and factors in many photographical aspects, like ISO performance, resolutions, etc that dont matter for video). A55 has extremely fast autofocus which is great for video unless you wanna use manual, in which case you might want a follow focus. Each camera has its upsides and downsides, and find which fits your need the most

Alright its past midnight so Im gonna go sleep. If you have anymore questions post em and Ill try to answer them tommorow morning

 

[saborfang17]

I love it when people themselves point out that this isn't a professional cinematographer's forums and STILL post questions about cameras.

Please, for future reference, if anybody has a question about video cameras - go to a god damn tech site and sign up there. There are people who spend their ENTIRE DAY working with these things and you have to come to a site where the majority of people are waiting for the next 1-on-1 so they can butcher it in front of the rest of their 12 year old friends, thereby ruining it. JUST BECAUSE YOU'RE GOING TO USE IT TO RECORD MAGIC, DOESN'T MEAN MAGICIANS KNOW WHAT'S BEST FOR YOU. And anyone else who reads this thread (soon, hopefully, you'll have used the search engine instead of posting this first) - don't breeze past that sentence. Read it again. Just tell the professionals how good of a quality you're going for, any specs you want it to have as a bare minimum, how far away you'll be recording from, etc. Should get atleast a few good recommendations within a day or two.

(@R.K. - This isn't meant offensively to you, but rather, to the entire group of people who are going to consider asking about cameras like you did in the future. Kudos to you, actually, for posting what you actually want in a camera. Atleast it's a step in the right direction, rather than asking "wut knd uf cmra wrks best 4 dnd magik on strets?")

 

[mehar]

Oh my god... I think I've just agreed with sabor.

 

[notsoltd]

Ehh, I posted on here because I didn't want to go through an entire set up process to create an account on another website to ask one question. I'm not getting huge into camera's, just want something of higher quality that will record/take photo's of my magic and everyday life outside of magic. Yeah, just because I am using it to film some magic doesn't mean it HAS to be posted here, but I knew there were probably a few photographers on here that could and would be willing to help so, why not.

Oh and btw sabor, "GD" isn't necessary

 

[AsherF]

What's important to note is that a camera will give you amazing footage just like a paintbrush will make you van goth or a deck of cards will make you dai Vernon. Ive seen many people brag about their camera and their footage still looks like it was done with a webcam. Just because you have doesn't make you Michael bay. These cameras are great not because they make the beginner able to direct Oscar winners. But because they give those with the knowledge and talent, the tools to achieve their vision. Don't expect to pick an expensive piece of equipment up andnbe able to film a masterpiece. You still need a vision. Proper lighting. Plan your shots. Etc etc. Whatever goes into filming, plus the experience andntalent acquired with time.

 

[Vorezo]

I just bought myself a T3i. Same as a T2i basically just with a swivel screen, which I think is great for performing magic. Im pretty much a n00b to this myself but got a deal I could not resist!

 

[CAndrew]

What's important to note is that a camera will give you amazing footage just like a paintbrush will make you van goth or a deck of cards will make you dai Vernon. Ive seen many people brag about their camera and their footage still looks like it was done with a webcam. Just because you have doesn't make you Michael bay. These cameras are great not because they make the beginner able to direct Oscar winners. But because they give those with the knowledge and talent, the tools to achieve their vision. Don't expect to pick an expensive piece of equipment up andnbe able to film a masterpiece. You still need a vision. Proper lighting. Plan your shots. Etc etc. Whatever goes into filming, plus the experience andntalent acquired with time.

This post sounds exactly like a post I made in a different thread. I think in the other thread the guy wanted to spend a few thousand $. In this case $1000 for a camera and accesories should be good for a beginner to learn and grow with.

 

[saborfang17]

Ehh, I posted on here because I didn't want to go through an entire set up process to create an account on another website to ask one question. I'm not getting huge into camera's, just want something of higher quality that will record/take photo's of my magic and everyday life outside of magic. Yeah, just because I am using it to film some magic doesn't mean it HAS to be posted here, but I knew there were probably a few photographers on here that could and would be willing to help so, why not.

Oh and btw sabor, "GD" isn't necessary

The way I interpreted that:

"I'm too lazy to go do my own camera research but since there are already a ton of annoying threads like this on t11, I'll just contribute to the waste of bandwidth by adding one more."

Have you ever TRIED googling keywords? There are people in the real world who have the same questions you do, but they've got enough drive in them to actually take the 30 seconds to sign up on another site to get more experienced replies (generally - I don't know how many professional photographers/cinematographers there are here on t11). And, to be honest, here's my view - if a bunch of teenagers are going to go on a MAGIC site and ask for MAGICIANS' views on CAMERA equipment that costs hundreds (sometimes thousands) of dollars instead of taking a little bit more time to get a better opinion, they're better off with a Flip camera, or something else around that price/quality range.

But I guess some people can't be bothered to go through an entire set up process to create an account on another website to ask one question.

 

[CAndrew]

The way I interpreted that:

"I'm too lazy to go do my own camera research but since there are already a ton of annoying threads like this on t11, I'll just contribute to the waste of bandwidth by adding one more."

Have you ever TRIED googling keywords? There are people in the real world who have the same questions you do, but they've got enough drive in them to actually take the 30 seconds to sign up on another site to get more experienced replies (generally - I don't know how many professional photographers/cinematographers there are here on t11).

Im not going to take a side but heres what I think. I say that asking other magicians who have done this what they find useful in a camera for magic is perfectly fine. Then you can take that knowledge and ask it on a site more video oriented.

 

[saborfang17]

Im not going to take a side but heres what I think. I say that asking other magicians who have done this what they find useful in a camera for magic is perfectly fine. Then you can take that knowledge and ask it on a more dedicated site.

He himself admits there's lots of threads around here on the subject. JB recently said they re-vamped the search engine, so I guess there's really no excuse to having skipped reading those and going to another site.

Not that I have a personal vendetta against him or anything, it's just that I find it annoying when a guy willing to spend money on $800+ equipment can't do their research properly when they know they can.

 

[CAndrew]

He himself admits there's lots of threads around here on the subject. JB recently said they re-vamped the search engine, so I guess there's really no excuse to having skipped reading those and going to another site.

Not that I have a personal vendetta against him or anything, it's just that I find it annoying when a guy willing to spend money on $800+ equipment can't do their research properly when they know they can.

Ill agree with alot of that, but I have to point out that some people(including me) really want to be sure of a purchase if its fairly expensive, and the best way to be sure you're getting answers to your own questions is to ask it yourself. Say he saw a thread where the budget was $900 and details were SLIGHTLY different. He might not be sure that it would apply to his situation. Like in this thread he said he wanted to spend the least possible, which is not stated in many other threads. I do think he could have gotten information about what to look for in cameras off those threads though.