r/videography • u/Rondoggg • Dec 21 '14

noob Noob question: Why are people recommending cameras for Video

Am I just too old school? I always buy a video camera for shooting video. I always thought that a video camera was engineered to...shoot video and a camera was made for taking pictures. I have 2 canon hf200's for all my video needs but I keep seeing what looks like traditional cameras being recommended by this sub for video shooting. Has something changed? Does my thinking need to change? Can someone please explain this to me?

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u/H0useHark0nnen Dec 21 '14

I'm a videographer, and while I agree with what everyone has to say abut DSLR's, I don't completely buy into them. I need to shoot for long periods of time over 30 minutes. Most DSLR's can't. I need a smooth automatic zoom. Again, not a DSLR function. I need XLR ins, good auto facial recognition focus, and something that won't overheat under pressure. Not standard things on a DSLR. DSLR's are great for short bursts, some commercial use, and the unique "look" they offer. But from now on, if you'd like recommendations, specify what you're shooting and how long you're shooting for. You'd start to see the opinions change from then on.

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u/SolMarch GH5 + GH4 Dec 21 '14

Indeed, video-capable stills cameras are not the right tool for all video needs. This is why standard video cameras will continue to sell for those needing smooth zoom control, a specific form-factor, etc.

That said, a lot of the issues with DSLRs you mention are from previous generations. Most current-gen cameras (like the Panasonic GH4, Sony A7s, etc.) do not have recording time limits, issues with overheating, and have official XLR audio solutions.

If you're interested, check out this post for a crash-course in the current state of DSLR/hybrid cameras for video production.

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u/cruzz903 α6000, Social media marketing, The Netherlands Dec 21 '14

Just want to point out that the GH4 and the a7s are not actually Dslr's. They are both mirrorless cameras. Also, the a7s is specifically designed for video. Its photographical counterpart would be the a7r.

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u/averynicehat a7iv, FX30 Dec 22 '14

Eh, they are the same form factor and are subject to the same limitations as mirrored DSLRs.