Professional use of dSLR video - nice rig and video clips

<p>Much has been posted on Pnet about the new breed of dSLR video-capable cameras such as the Nikon D90. While we (mainly still photographers) see them as imperfect, professional videographers are apparently embracing the idea and using them in lue of traditional gear.</p>

<p>Take a look at this rig for example: <a href="http://tutorials.dslrflix.com/?p=27">http://tutorials.dslrflix.com/?p=27</a></p>

<p>And the making of a music video with a D90 in use: <a href="http://tutorials.dslrflix.com/?p=33">http://tutorials.dslrflix.com/?p=33</a></p>

<p>It looks like technology in this area will only evolve and improve as features become increasingly popular. We live in exciting times!</p>

<p><em>While we (mainly still photographers) see them as imperfect, professional videographers are apparently embracing the idea and using them in lue of traditional gear.</em></p>

<p>You can't be serious. Only a strictly still photographer would believe such a thing. Over half my work (and revenue) comes from video, and I can't imagine the video capability of a D90 as anything other than a novelty. I can get 2MP still shots from my video cameras, which is also a novelty, but more integrated than video from a still camera.<br />Memory is a significant issue. You can only get about 15 minutes of video on an 8GB card. That might be enough for sound bites on the evening news, but not for serious video. When you shoot stills, you have to hold for 1/15 second or less. For video, that stretches to no less than 10 seconds and can extend to 20 minutes or more. That requires a different mindset and first-rate ergonomics. If you recall the videos your parents shot, it works best if the subject moves but NOT the camera (notice how seldom pans and zooms occur in commercial films). Add to this the requirements for various frame rates, time codes, genloc (multi-camera sync) and color space unique to video, we have a serious compatibility problems. Then there is sound capability (and quality).</p>

<p>I think there will be an increasing overlap between still and video photography, evolving from both ends toward the center. But neither will supplant the other. Main stream equipment will still be primarily still or video, depending on your needs.</p>

<p>Speaking for myself I do not want or need that function. A multifunction camera is not something I would purchase. I would rather see a model come out with a wider dynamic range and ISO 50. That is the direction that is of interest to me. However if Nikon does not want to go down that road I will just have to look around for what will meet my needs. Possibly something like the Mamiya ZD type system. </p>

<p>I see the integration of video into a primarily still camera as being an advantage to the electronic journalist, someone who wants to use stills and short videos in an issue-oriented blog or news oriented site and prefers to travel light. Most folks will probably use it to enhance their personal blogs. It'll be a significant step up from cell phone videos, and a bit of an improvement over P&S videos.</p>