What Is the Best DSLR for HD Video? 3 Critical Components to Look For

If you are trying to find the best DSLR for HD video, then there are some major things to look for. There are really only two primary competitors in the DSLR video industry, Canon and Nikon. With that said, Canon really is the industry leader in this market as Nikon is struggling to keep up. For that reason, I'll assume that you are looking for a Canon DSLR that can shoot crystal clear video and allow you to use various EFS lenses.

Component #1 - Durability

You may be asking why this is the first component, but if you are going to be spending a lot of money on a DSLR camera, you want to make sure that it will withstand heavy use, mild weather conditions, and even the occasional drop. It is easy to get busy on set or after a video shoot and throw a camera into the case without really securing it. You want to make sure that the next time you open that case, the camera is still in tact. Canon makes a couple camera models made of Magnesium Alloy material, which is perfect for those of you wanting the best DSLR for HD video. The CMOS sensor, $1,200 lens, and 3'' LCD Monitor are useless if the camera doesn't function.

Component #2 - Resolution

This is a fairly obvious thing to look for when trying to find the best DSLR for HD video, but it is easy to get sidetracked with other bells and whistles that so many companies offer. To get the absolute best looking footage that a DSLR can offer, you need to find one that shoots video at full HD power, which is 1,920 x 1,080 pixles, also known as "1080p." So far, in the video world, this is the best there is. However, a more functional DSLR for HD video would have a 720p mode as well, which can allow for filming at a frame rate of 60 frames per second, which basically means you can shoot crystal clear slow motion if you need to.

Component #3 - Versatility

Versatility means to be capable to do many things. When looking for a DSLR for HD video, you'll want a camera that can do more than just shoot video. It should be able to shoot different types of video. Your DSLR should allow you to choose between different frame rates to achieve the look that you want. For example, if you want a film look, you should be able to set your DSLR to 24 frames per second. If you want a broadcast look, you should be able to switch it to 30 frames per second. And as mentioned earlier, for slow motion, you'll want to enable the 60 frames per second mode. Not all cameras offer this many choices, but they are critical options for the serious DSLR video shooter.

Canon makes a few cameras that are very affordable for under $2,000 that contain all of the components mentioned above. The overall pick for the best DSLR for HD video would have to be the Canon EOS 7D. A review of this camera can be found at CanonDSLRVideo.com. I hope this information helps you choose the best DSLR for HD video that money can buy.

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DSLR Video Vs Camcorder Video - The Battle to the Top

The Battle of "DSLR Video vs Camcorder"

For about 3 years now, video amateurs and professionals all over the world have heard about the rising star in the video arena, "DSLR Video." This lightweight contender is a photography based camera that packs a punch in the ring against the older, heavier, and less popular "Camcorder." The Battle of "DSLR Video vs Camcorder," is officially underway.

For almost 30 years, since Sony's BetaCam in 1982, tape-based camcorders have ruled the video industry with their compact build, light weight, and most of all, their ease of use. All you had to do was push a red button and point the lens at what you wanted to record. There was no longer a need for film canisters or projectors. Literally anyone could film anything they wanted and watch it instantly.

High Definition?

Over the past several years, many camcorder companies have tried to make it even easier by using digital devices to record video, such as memory cards and hard drives, which you just stick in any computer to watch instantly. With the shift to digital video came the shift to high definition (HD) video. More and more camera companies were coming out with so called HD recording, but most of them did not record full HD at 1,920 x 1,080 pixels (1080p). Also, many camcorders recorded on a format that can't be edited as a raw file, such as AVCHD, which means that there is massive quality loss, diminishing the fact that the video was recorded in HD in the first place. In the Battle of "DSLR Video vs Camcorder," this would mean that "Camcorder" should just throw in the towel.

The Birth of a Champion

In September of 2008, Canon announced the release of its 5D Mark II, the first DSLR camera to spread the popularity of using DSLR for HD video. A year later, on September 1, 2009, Canon came out with the less expensive, but equally powerful, EOS 7D. Although the 7D is not full frame like the 5D, the 7D was made with video functionality in mind, making it more suitable for video shooters. It has a designated button to switch from still picture mode to video mode and it is made with a magnesium alloy case, which is more durable.

"DSLR Video vs Camcorder" | DSLR Takes the Lead

Since the release of the Canon EOS 7D in 2009, several video camera gear manufacturers have started making accessories specifically for shooting video with the 7D and 5D Mark II. With the ability to change lenses, frame rates, and have a manual shutter, it became obvious that with the proper accessories, these DSLR cameras would begin to dominate the video industry. You can now buy shoulder mount rigs and dolly set-ups along with matte-boxes and follow focus sets that are all specifically designed for video. For the quality of video that these cameras produce, camcorders pose no threat to the rising use of DSLR cameras for video.

I almost forgot to mention that a complete DSLR video set with lenses and necessary accessories can be bought for less than most HD video camcorders that are presently on the market. For under $3,500, you could own a camera set-up that is worthy of filming feature films or award winning documentaries.

The Battle is Won!

In the battle of "DSLR Video vs Camcorder," DSLR video has won and I don't expect to see a re-match.

An amazing website has been created that focuses on Canon DSLR Video, the leader in the DSLR video industry. CanonDSLRVideo.com is dedicated to providing reviews, tutorials, and videos to filmmakers and video producers alike. Take the time to check out the site and watch some of the videos. You may find the resources to be helpful.

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What Is the Best Entry Level DSLR for Video? - 3 Surefire Things to Look For

What to Look For in the Best Entry Level DSLR for Video

Buying anything that is somewhat expensive can be a challenge, which is why it is difficult to shop for the best entry level DSLR for video purposes. You will be dishing out over $500 and you know that you're going to need some quality accessories to go with it to make it an actual video camera. With so many DSLR advertisements it may seem like there are a few obvious choices, but they may not be the best choice for someone just starting out.

The best entry level DSLR for video should contain three major components:

Resolution

1,920 x 1,080 pixels is a must have if you want to shoot full HD video. It is virtually impossible to find a camera under $1,000 that shoots in full HD (1080p), but there is at least one, the Canon Rebel T2i. This little guy is a semi-pro DSLR designed for high resolution photos, and especially video. It records on H.264 format for easy capture and lack of quality loss. The full HD footage on this $700 DSLR camera is capable of creating award winning films.

Frame Rate Options

Before you go and buy a $2,000 DSLR camera because it seems like everyone else has one or because all of the magazine ads are showing one, seriously consider looking at a less expensive version that offers the same frame rate options. For those that don't know what frame rate is, it refers to how many frames are captured per second to produce the moving image. When you watch television, you are most likely watching video shot at 30 frames per second, meaning that 30 still pictures are shown one after the other in one second, thus creating moving pictures or "video." If you are watching a film in a movie theater, then you are probably watching film shot at 24 frames per second to give it a more cinematic look.

You want a DSLR that can give you those options along with the ability to shoot stunning slow motion footage with 60 frames per second. The Canon Rebel T2i shoots 1080p HD video at 24 or 30 frames per second, and 720p HD video at 60 frames per second. With the appropriate lenses, you could create any kind of look that you want.

Low Light Capabilities

Needing to carry around a camera light is practically an outdated necessity. Canon purposely designed the Rebel T2i to perform well in low light conditions, and boy did they succeed! This camera has the ability to have it's ISO set to 6,400, but that is way more than you will ever need, even in low-light, especially with the right lens, like the Canon EFS 50mm f /1.2.

Basically, the Canon Rebel T2i performs almost identical to its bigger, pricier relatives such as the Canon EOS 7D or 5D Mark II. To learn more about this DSLR camera and finding the best entry level DSLR for video, check out CanonDSLRVideo.com.

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The Latest Movies Filmed in South Africa

South Africa has become a favourite destination for film production crews shooting on location over the last few years. But while Cape Town and its environs have been used for top advertising shoots and stills productions for many years, it is comparatively recently that the big movie productions have started using South Africa regularly as a prime setting for movies starring big box office attractions such as Halle Berry, Denzel Washington and Leonardo DiCaprio.

The latest movie to be filmed in South Africa is Safe House, still in post-production phase and due for release in February 2012. It stars Denzel Washington as a rogue ex-agent, Ryan Reynolds as the CIA agent protecting him and much of it is filmed on location in and around the streets of Cape Town with plenty of thrilling action sequences along the scenic coast roads too.

Halle Berry has also been in Cape Town recently filming Dark Tide, a thriller about a diving instructor and close encounters with sharks. Filmed in Simon's Town in the chilly Cape winter, Halle Berry still manages to sport a bikini despite the cold. The film is still in post-production and is set to be released towards the end of 2011.

A big hit despite featuring local unknowns, District 9, released in 2009, made headlines as one of the first South African film productions to make it big internationally. While the setting of urban decay, and theme of aliens segregated by an unsympathetic government, is unlikely to bring tourists flocking, the production was great news for the South African film industry.

Blood Diamond, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and released in 2006, was filmed mostly in South Africa, despite being set in Sierra Leone, mostly because of the superior infrastructure available here supporting this size of film production.

Rumours are currently rife about the next James Bond film being filmed in South Africa. Carte Blanche, which is Jeffrey Deaver's newly launched Bond novel, is set in and around Cape Town for much of its story and speculation has it being filmed next year for release the following year. However this is an unconfirmed rumour, though exciting for Cape Town film buffs and for the potential boost to the tourist industry that could well come from the reflected glamour of 007 enjoying cocktails, shaken not stirred, in top Cape Town hotels!

All in all, South Africa and in particular Cape Town are well on the map when it comes to the international film industry, with world-class infrastructure supporting these mega productions.

Prinz Productions offers premier stills and film production services based in Cape Town, South Africa. Specialising in South Africa, Portugal and Mauritius, they also offer production services worldwide. Find out more about their film production service in South Africa whether you're thinking movie blockbuster or advertising shoot.

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So You Want to Be a Paid Videographer

If you want to make money with your camera you need to know this.

High quality Video Cameras and DSLR's cost a lot of money so at some point the thought of making money with your camera is very appealing. As you learn more and get better at shooting the chances of starting to get paid jobs increases but there is more to this than you may know.

- Attitude - Yes, nothing to do with your camera or skills. Many years ago I met and worked with a fantastic old Director who explained this very well.

Imagine a long, hard days shooting, many setups, difficult talent, difficult lighting, and many challenges to getting the job done well. A good cameraperson should be able to get the job done to a satisfactory level under all these challenges.

However, the thing that will get that client and that Director coming back to you for future work is how they feel at the end of that day.

If they are still smiling and feel great about the day and the results you have achieved, they will want to work with you again.

On the other hand, if you were stressed, irritated, and made the day even worse, they will use someone else on the next shoot.

With a positive, friendly and supportive attitude, you will get more work from them and they will recommend you to others.

Word of mouth is huge; I have had many great jobs and clients from a recommendation and not even needed a CV or showreel.

Here are some other things you need to have a good understanding of, to get paid work.

- Good Composition - how making a shot more dramatic can add a different emotion to the shot. But, it needs to be relevant to the story so it does not distract the viewer from the story.

- Crossing the Line - you need a thorough understanding of this or your stories, sequences, interviews and dramas will not make sense. Spend a lot of time working this out so you do not make this mistake. Even if you want to do it for an effect, you first need to understand it.

- Sequences - learning how to know all the shots to take to be able to edit a story that makes sense to the viewer is vital. If you need help understanding this check out some of my other articles.

- Good Sound - there are now many low budget jobs where you will be required to also do the sound. Learn and practice these skills so you are not supplying footage with bad audio. If you do, you will not get another job from that client. Always use headphones and learn how and where to place your microphones. When listening to the sound on your headphones, also listen to the background sounds that you do not want in the final result.

- Fill Light - Many times when you are shooting, the light falling on your subject will not be as good as you would like. Move your subject to get it as good as you can, and then use a reflector to fill some light into the shadow areas of the face.

There are many camera skills you need to have to shoot well and they will all improve the more you shoot, so pick up your camera and shoot as much as you can.

Do simple low budget jobs first to gain experience and always take care of your client.

My name is Geoff Stock and I have been a Professional Television Cameraman for over 30 years. Recently I have developed a Video Camera Course to teach what I do. It is a series of videos that can be followed online to help anyone to quickly and easily be able to shoot high quality video. It is like Secret Cameraman's Business, the camera skills and techniques we use everyday. I cover camerawork, audio and lighting, and it is relevant to all types of camerawork. Whether you want to make short films, training videos, or documentaries I cover it all. There is also lots of free info in the blog posts, go check it out http://video-camera-courses.com/

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Secrets on How to Get an Agent in Hollywood

AGENTS

Brian Blumer

How would you describe your job?

As an agent at ICM I work long hours, twenty-plus hours a day where I am always sitting on the edge of my seat. I told people when I stepped into the office that I needed a seatbelt, because it would be a bumpy ride, and that was a good day. I spend the whole day turning "no's into yes's, and 15,000.00 offer into a 50,000.00 offer. Every conversation in being an agent is an uphill battle.

How did you get into it?

I did a summer internship at ABC while going to college at UCLA. The last department I worked in was public relations. I was doing publicity for shows like NYPD BLUE, ACCORDING TO JIM, MY WIFE AND KIDS, etc. It was suggested to me to go the agent route after my work there, and so I did. I interviewed with all the major agencies I could find, and after a grueling 10 interview process, I landed a spot at ICM in their trainee program which lasted for 3 years.

What are you looking for in other people?

As an agent looking for talent to book I always look for marketability. Do I believe they are going to work just as hard as I am to get their name out there? Do they work on networking as hard as they work on their art. Are they going to help me get them to the top, or would I be doing all the work?

What are the biggest mistakes that people make when it comes to doing your job?

Because we work with such a fast rate people forget details, and have a lack of following up, which screws the artist, and can cause us to lose clients. One mistake can mean a huge difference. In order to be a good agent you have to be quick on your feet, and know the answer immediately.

Why do some people get the gigs and others don't?

Talent. Marketability. It's about whether or not they can become a brand.

What makes you want to not work with someone?

A bad team. If an actor, musician, producer, etc. has a bad team there are too many cooks in the kitchen. It is hard to be productive for a client when everything has to be discussed with the whole team. The only time I was willing to go through that tedious process is if the client was worth over $100k a booking.

What is your typical day?

A typical day for me is getting into the office no later than 7AM. Turn on my computer and check for responses on any business from the day before. As my specialty is international, I have to attack the day according to time zone. First I call eastern Europe, followed by western Europe, followed by New York and work my way west. I feel like Santa Claus trying to deliver all of the gifts before sun-up. It's a constant struggle to tackle the most important projects and maintain all other business on my agenda.

I call the most urgent or highest paying opportunities first and once I have left word for everyone, I can then start leaving word for the less pressing projects. After doing this for 9 hours straight, I might then call Australia and Asia and do the same thing until 4AM or until I pass out!

Agent Season - when is the best time to look for an agent?

January to May is pilot season and not a good time because agents can't focus on new clients. By June they are in the offices, and it is a good time to look.

What would be your one major piece of advice for making it in Hollywood?

Be impeccable with your word, create value for the team. Show up with the spirit of, 'What can I do to help?', rather than, 'What can I take and get?'

Many people have the misconception that once they step off the bus and have landed in HOLLYWOOD that casting directors are waiting at the bus stop ready to make them famous. It doesn't work that way. You need an agent to get the auditions for you.

What is an agent? An agent isn't the lipstick-wearing gum-chewing hustler you may have imagined, and many actors and newcomers think that the agent holds the secrets to their fame. This is simply not true. The agent can present opportunity, but having a resume full of home-town theatre may not be enough.

Good agents know the business and know if they can sell you. They know people on every level and it is up to him to develop the relationships needed to promote you. An agent builds his credibility by having an experienced actor who can nail an audition. Then it is up to the agent to negotiate your contract. He or she knows the rules and regulations within the SCREEN ACTORS GUILD, ACTORS EQUITY, and AMERICAN FEDERATION OF TELEVISION AND RADIO ARTISTS. If the actor works, the agent gets paid. If the actor doesn't work, he does not make his percentage.

A FRANCHISED AGENT represents actors who are in one of the unions. To be franchised the agent is licensed by the state and abides by agency rules, regulations etc. Remember, in order to attract your first agent you have to have something to sell even if your mom and cousin at home told you that you are already a star. Student films, theatre, plays, and theatre groups are the best resources to get started and to get prepared to have an agent. Local acting classes have students who may have an agent and refer you to theirs as well. Working actors study acting. Period.

"Natural talent" must be trained as well. Put together an audition/sizzle/demo reel of your work and you can get this by doing student films. The unions have free agent listings in THE ACADEMY PLAYERS DIRECTORY and will mail you a copy if you ask. 310-278-8990 8949 wilshire Beverly hills 90210

Brian Blumer has moved on from ICM and is now in the field of Attorneys and job placement.

Amber Dawn Lee is an American actress, producer, and screenwriter. Born November 27, 1975. She booked her first modeling job in Utah after she was discovered by a talent scout for a modeling agency in a mall. Her modeling career gave her opportunities to travel, but Amber Dawn Lee chose to stay and work in America instead of internationally.
After roles in short films and musical theatre in Texas she realized her career could only happen if she moved to Los Angeles where films were being made. At the encouragement of friends, she packed up her car in the middle of the night and drove straight to California. She checked into the Sportsmen's Lodge, and started acting classes at the world famous Beverly Hills Playhouse. Supporting her endeavors through modeling she began to book acting jobs, including Hookers For Jesus, which she wrote and starred in.
Amber Dawn Lee played Linda Lou in the musical "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas" in San Antonio, Texas. She also played the role of Cinderella in San Antonio, Texas.
Amber Dawn Lee is also a humanitarian and speaks on panels around the United States on issues of animal rights.
She has been featured in several magazines as a model including the cover of Template:Met Magazine and she appeared on Good Morning America with Dianne Sawyer. She did runway modeling for Versace. She lives in Beverly Hills, California with her shih-tzu, Charlie, and her Miniture Pinscher she saved from being put to sleep at a shelter.
Two of her screenplays Mockstar and Children of the West were quarter finalists in a screen writing competition. Amber created her own production company Movie Junkies Productions in 2007, and has produced and acted in several of her own projects which are designed specifically for her.

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What Is the Best DSLR for Video? - Tips Before Buying a DSLR for Video

DSLR for Video?

Two years ago, I asked my good friend and fellow film-maker what camera I should buy to stay current in the low-budget film industry. He said that I should buy a Canon 7D, the best DSLR for video on the market. I had to stop and think for a moment as I thought the Canon 7D was a photography camera, not a DSLR for video. I laughed at him and said, "No one is going to take me seriously if I show up to a film set or wedding with a photography camera to film video." He said that he had already filmed 3 weddings with his and then he sent me to his website to look at the footage.

It opened my eyes to a whole new world of video production. I no longer cared about what I looked like holding a smaller camera. All I cared about was getting my hands on one of these Canon 7D cameras to produce videos that looked like his.

Shortly, after I began to realize that my buddy wasn't the only one catching on to this DSLR craze. Major publications started promoting the Canon 7D and major camera companies started manufacturing and selling accessories to accompany the Canon 7D. It almost felt like the entire film and video industry had just given birth to the next generation of film-making. I have a feeling that this generation will last a while.

Canon 7D

I do believe that the Canon 7D is the best DSLR for video. In fact, I think it is the best low-budget camera, in general, for video or film production. There are way too many features to mention in this article, but I will list some of the most beneficial features when applied to video.

-All new CMOS records Full HD (1080p) at 1,920 x 1,080 pixels with a 16:9 aspect ration (widescreen).

-720p and Standard Definition video are also available within this camera

-Wide range of choices when determining frame rates to help get the desired look

-Works with all EFS lenses

-Records as MOV files, using AVC/ H.264 compression (conserves more memory)

-Magnesium alloy case for durability and weather resistance

-Records on CF (Compact Flash) cards

-Internal microphone AND 1/8'' external microphone jack

The Bottom Line

If you are serious about jumping into the DSLR video world, then you will find that the Canon 7D will be used by the majority of professional film-makers and videographers alike. There is a reason for that and there is no need to be an exception. The Canon 7D has proved itself to be the best DSLR for video that money can buy. If you add a couple good lenses to the camera, you'll have yourself a set-up worthy of filming literally anything you want.

To see videos and learn more about the Canon 7D being the best DSLR for video, then visit CanonDSLRVideo.com. There are videos, reviews, and more that can help you make your mark in the DSLR video industry.

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