What a difference a decade makes!
In the last ten years, we’ve seen a mass exodus of photographers leaving film cameras for the many benefits digital technology has provided. The industry continues to progress, offering us a dizzying array of new features, accessories and ways of better leveraging the equipment we currently own. One of the most significant advancements is the ability to have a DSLR camera capable of shooting high quality video in low light conditions. This advancement opens doors in a variety of personal and professional applications.
To illustrate just how far we’ve come, the recent season finale of the television show House was shot entirely using the Canon 5D Mark II! The show’s director Greg Yaitanes states that he believes this is ‘the future,’ and we’re inclined to agree.
If you’re considering a new DSLR camera, here are a few reasons why you might consider getting one that has HD Video Capability:
Combination Convenience: Many people find they need to carry both a still camera and a video camera when they travel for vacation, special events or even attending simple functions such as a birthday party or anniversary bash. Having this combination allows us to consolidate the amount of equipment we need to care for and carry, and this benefit alone warrants serious consideration.
Depth of Field Benefits: Today’s DSLR cameras have an advantage over many of today’s current video cameras in that DSLR lenses have a greater DOF (depth of field) control than comparable video camera lenses. This is particularly beneficial for those instances where the photographer needs to convey a certain sense of distance or expansive space. Professionally shot films leverage a shallow depth of field, making the foreground sharp while keeping the background blurred. The HD DSLR cameras currently available provide greater flexibility and control over the DOF due to the ability to change lenses for different scenarios.
Using What You Already Own: One of the wonderful benefits of DSLR cameras is the ability to use lenses you already own on a new model DSLR body. If you’re considering a new HD DSLR camera, you may very well be able to use your existing lenses, which will allow you to further expand your options when experimenting with video.
More Potential Work for Working Photographers: Whether you make a part-time or full-time living as a professional photographer, the ability to shoot HD video opens countless new doors for you and your clients. Wedding photographers can now incorporate video clips of key moments in the ceremony and reception, commercial photographers can now assist with web-based promotion videos and related content, and school photographers can offer videos for schools looking to promote special events or looking for community support for fundraisers.
It’s important to note that learning to shoot high-quality video will take some time and experimentation—and learning to edit video is an additional skill you will need to study-- but it has never been a better time to consider this exciting new frontier. The technology that exists today would have cost tens of thousands of dollars just a few years ago. If you’re looking for a new way to expand your client offerings, this may be the perfect fit for you.
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