Video & DSLR or New DSLR w/ built in video

[Me!Thatswho]

I have a quick question for any of you who, like me, are the official one person AV crew on family trips. For the last several yeara, I can typically be seen switching between my Panasonic pv-gs400 and Pentax K20D that are roped around my next. But, now that several models of DSLRs have video recording capability, how many have ditched the video camera in order to focus on pics & video from the DSLR. And, how does the experience compare? Do you still take as much video as you would have, or have you found that you are taking less (or more) in order get that perfect still shot?

Oh, and I am not looking for shopping advice because I'm a Pentax guy and intend on upgrading to a K5 in the next year or so.

 

[YesDear]

I never thought I would use a DSLR for video but have used new cameras for video and love it. I have a video background from years ago and love the ability to use quality glass and take advantage of DOF of the different lenses.

I will say I have immediately though of those "things" I need to make better videos and of course all it takes is money.

It is nice if I have my camera with me, that I can at the flick of a switch change to video.

Is it right for you, I do not know but I have been pleasantly surprised!

 

[Me!Thatswho]

Thanks for the reply. I know it was a rather odd question, but I have fallen in love with the idea of going back to having only one piece of equipment around my neck. As you said, being able to switch back and forth between the mediums definitely has a strong appeal to me. Ironically, the reason why I purchased the GS400 was because of the ability to video and snap pics at the same time. It was also my first digital camera, as I simply refused to give up on film or my old Canon AE1. But, once I experienced the joy of the instant gratification that digital affords, I could not turn back. Unfortunately it is now nearly 8 years old, and the video quality has begin to slip. So, rather than investing in a new camcorder, I figured that I put my money into a new DSLR that has dual capability. So, knowing that your experience has been positive, is definitely reassuring.

Thanks again!

 

[Gianna'sPapa]

Being a Pentax guy myself and an owner of the K5, I would recommend you wait a little while before committing to the K5. There is an upgrade rumored for announcement sometime in September around Photokina time. There is rumor that it may include autofocus while recording.

 

[Me!Thatswho]

Being a Pentax guy myself and an owner of the K5, I would recommend you wait a little while before committing to the K5. There is an upgrade rumored for announcement sometime in September around Photokina time. There is rumor that it may include autofocus while recording.

Really? Good to know. Maybe I'll wait and grab the replacement model as early Christmas present!

 

[hakepb]

Or a potential 3rd option.. (that may or may not be right for you) If you ever considered a more pocketable point and shoot to supplement the DSLr... You can now get great, optical stabilized 1080p 60fps video out of a Sony HX-20 or RX-100.