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Is canon 5D/7D better camera than Panasonic HPX?

So many people are using 5D or 7D nowadays, are they better cameras shooting a HD film?
Hard to define "better".

Yes, there are cameras that are technically better. And there
are cameras that are designed for shooting video (the DSLR's
are designed for shooting stills) that many DP's prefer. When
adding all the necessary accessories the cost of a good HD
"video" camera is about the same as using a DSLR.

But "better" is actually a preference in most cases. I know you
are in the process of hiring a DP. My advice is to use the camera
your DP is comfortable using. The 5D and 7D are fine cameras
for shooting a movie, but not the "best" choice.
 
Hard to define "better".

Yes, there are cameras that are technically better. And there
are cameras that are designed for shooting video (the DSLR's
are designed for shooting stills) that many DP's prefer. When
adding all the necessary accessories the cost of a good HD
"video" camera is about the same as using a DSLR.

But "better" is actually a preference in most cases. I know you
are in the process of hiring a DP. My advice is to use the camera
your DP is comfortable using. The 5D and 7D are fine cameras
for shooting a movie, but not the "best" choice.

I know they cost the same. I kind of like HPXs and wonder if 5D can make the similar images.
 
I have used all three. (I now own a 7D)

I personally like the 7D/5D more.

-You have to buy P2 cards with the HPX (expensive cards)
-7D/5D has interchangeable lenses
-More creative focus control on the DSLR's as well

Like Directorik said, alot of it is preference.
 
There are advantages and disadvantages to using any of those cameras.

I've shot with all three. HPX has sound advantage over the DSLRs. Running sound to the 7D is the worst as it has AGC. So you need to have a second sound system and use a clap board. You also can run video village to the HPX. The DSLR's viewfinders go black if an external monitor gets connected.
You get zebra bars on the HPX, the DSLR's don't have it.

5D/7D can shoot better in low light. HPX will have noise if the location isn't lit properly.
As Michael said, the DSLRs have interchangeable lenses so if you have a fast lens you can do some DOF. 5D is also full frame. The DSLRs look more filmic. HPX looks a lot like video, especially in low light situations. (Like night time). So if you're just comparing images, the DSLRs with good lenses will look better than the HPX.
 
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