As an aspiring videographer I love to watch well-made films.
Affordable DSLR (digital single-lens-reflex) cameras with HD video capability (such as the Canon 7D and Nikon D7000) have opened up the world of film-making for under two thousand dollars, assuming body + kit lens.
As phone cameras advance, videos can be made on the fly (Yes, there is an ap for that), though that “filmic” look and ultimate creative control remains the domain of interchangeable-lens cameras.
Photographers with do-it-yourself skills can further enhance their productions cheaply, by building accessories such as dollies and jibs.
Post-production software doesn’t have to break the bank either. Windows Movie Maker is free, Mac users can download the latest edition of iMovie for $15. YouTube now includes basic editing capability.
My gear collection is limited but doesn’t stop me from experimenting.
Meanwhile, I’m inspired by all kinds of genres, from social documentaries to adventure sport shorts.
When it comes to short cycling films, Rapha’s productions rate pretty high. They go beyond the usual fare focussed solely on the act of riding a bike; they tell little stories.
This one gives a glimpse of the Whistler Gran Fondo, from Vancouver to Whistler.
[vimeo width=”445″ height=”245″]http://vimeo.com/31921101[/vimeo]
They have also just released a “super eight” list of their finest films. Worth investing some viewing time.
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The Canon Rebel series is a good entry level DSLR with HD video.
I have the Rebel T1i (actually purchased it last December) and it is my first DSLR.
It shoots in 1024 HD though at a lower frame rate (the T2i and T3i shoot in perfect 1024 I believe), however I’m quite impressed with the way it looks when I film in 720.
Very well done video also! Quite impressive.
Despite having my DSLR for almost a year (Dec 20 :p) I haven’t fooled around too much with the video mode. Since it’s my first I’ve been more focused on the picture side of things.
Here is a video I took:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sgOrUpp1h5Q&list=UUzMHPSaxlbLuKmzYpaghw1w&feature=plcp
As you can see I’m not into the video side of things just yet :p
I’m sure you’ll get the bug now you have the tools.
I’ll probably do a post soon on the joys of video production.
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