DSLR video - Canon T2i

[vizfx]

I`ve recently bought the Canon T2i (the budget solution). One of the reasons was the capability to record video in flexible formats. For video I have a Sony VX2100 camcorder but the image is flat (useless DOF).

I`m thinking to use the DSLR for short videos with a prime lens (F/1,8) and variable ND filter to control the light. For dramatic angles I have an 8 mm fisheye lens used primarily for panoramic images.

Any comments about similar experiences are welcomed.

[vizfx]

My first experience with the Canon 550D (T2i) recording a short clip (3 min.):

- extremely rich colors far beyond VX2100 camcorder

- wonderful DOF with the prime lens (50mm, F/1.8)

- with this lens a tripod is absolutely necessary

- manual focus is a must

- pleasing low light performance at ISO 3200, 6400 it`s a bit too much but useful in some occasion (if you want to mimic the film grain)

 

Next project with this camera and Sigma Fisheye (8mm, F/3,5) – panoramic image (360) at full resolution (18 mega pixels / image). This will be a real test for the dynamic range of the camera.

Edited July 6, 2010 by vizfx

[vizfx]

I`ve just found an extremely useful thing.

If you rename the .thm files (thumbnails generated for video files) to .jpg you have access for exif info from video

[JamesL]

That's a potentially really useful tip - good work!

 

I'm looking at buying a 550D, I'd be interested to see your results...have you tested it at high ISOs - what's it like for noise?

[vizfx]

Video experience with the prime lens:

- handheld video - can be corrected with stabilization plugins (trade off - resolution drop 5 – 10 %)

- ND filters – absolutely necessary for full control

 

Photo:

- better lenses - Canon EF-S 18-55 mm IS lens it is the weakest point

[AJLynn]

I don't know if it's the same with Canon, but with my D90 I've found VR lenses are useful for video if used carefully - they can be a bit like a steadycam but if you're deliberately moving the camera they can give unpredictable results.

 

Would L glass with IS or a Sigma 17-70 with OS be reasonable for you? (I've used the previous version of the Sigma and it's a very nice upgrade over an 18-55 kit lens.)

[vizfx]

My lens kit includes:

- Canon 18-55mm IS

- Canon 50 mm F/1,8

- Sigma 8 mm F/3,5

- Tamron 55-200 mm

The only serious lens in this list is Sigma which was bought for 360 panoramic images but the distortion effect is nice even for video in some extreme cases.

The next step is to buy a serious lens for all day use but will have to wait a bit.

At this moment the next investment is another camcorder – maybe Sony nx5u or Sony pmw-ex1 (depending on the budget).