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Camera problem

Duck & Dog Productions

Duck & Dog Productions

I'm looking for a decent camera to start off filming with. I do make films frequently and already have a camera but it is so far from what i would like. I currently use a sony hdcam that is still in working condition except for the focus. it doesn't have an external microphone jack or headphone jack at all. i was looking into the Canon xl1s but i am open for suggestions on what other type of cameras i could REASONABLY afford.

Thanks guys.
 
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If you're looking for a REALLY affordable camera with manual settings and mic jack, you can't go wrong with a DSLR (like the Rebel T3i from canon, for example, it's only $600 with lens included). Only downsides for them are the following...

1 - 29:59 recording time limit
2 - Rolling shutter/skew is slightly more prominent
3 - While the bodies are cheap, lenses are expensive - but it's well worth it!

I don't really know about actual camcorders - depending on the type of stuff you want to do, it may be better to go with something like one of the Canon Vixia models, but otherwise I'd recommend going for a DSLR if you're really serious about filmmaking and not concerned with any of its limitations.
 
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Oh, you HAVE to look at PhilipBloom.net to see what all is possible with a DSLR. Should also help you pick one out from all of his reviews!

You can get quite amazing results from DSLRs, thanks to their bigger sensors and obviously because of their compatibility with lenses. If you have a good budget (around $1000), I'd pick up a T3i from Amazon as well as a decent lens (though I've had good success with the kit lens, it would be nice to have a good prime lens). Otherwise, you may also want to check out the blackmagic pocket cinema camera, which is a REALLY nice camera for $995, but no lenses are included and there are some issues with it (currently, even though it's technically released, you won't find it on a shelf anywhere because apparently the company can't keep up with demands), but it gives you amazing images!
 
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For starting out, anything that can record video is nice.

But if you are interested in creating high quality content with a really low budget, I'd invest in a Canon T3i or T2i. The T3i is slightly more expensive, but it's worth it. The only difference is a swivel screen. The Canon T2i's screen cannot be turned and moved around, but the T3i's can. I'd buy a used body (http://www.amazon.com/Canon-T3i-Processor-Vari-Angle-Body/dp/B004M170YC) and a Canon 35mm (http://www.amazon.com/Canon-35mm-Wide-Angle-Cameras/dp/B00009XVCU) or Canon 50mm (http://www.amazon.com/Canon-50mm-1-8-Camera-Lens/dp/B00007E7JU). Spend the rest of your money on a tripod and other equipment. Also consider audio equipment.

Also, a budget would be nice. It will be easier to determine what camera you should get.

One more thing:

It doesn't matter what you shoot with, but how you shoot.
 
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I was hoping to get away with about 2000 dollars for a camera and audio, however i'm relatively new to buying equipment so I do not know if this is reasonable or if I could get away for cheaper. i already own a manfrotto fluid head that is still in good condition minus some wear and tear but i have no audio or lighting accessories.
 
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You have a tripod. Good.

Camera

I'd invest in a Canon T3i with a nice kit lens. Visit this thread:

http://www.indietalk.com/showthread.php?t=50251

Audio

http://www.indietalk.com/showthread.php?t=49443 <------ Alcove has some awesome audio advice here.

Invest the rest of your money in lighting. You can go to Home Depot, and pick up some clamp lights. You can then build some DIY stands.

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=DIY+light+stand

If you're a handy person:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFzIP_TN75A

Best of luck! :cool:
 
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With your budget, the T3i can't be beat! It is a very capable camera and because of its lower cost, you can invest a lot more money in the other equipment! Probably one of the best choices you can make. :)
 
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