Best products from r/DSLR
We found 27 comments on r/DSLR discussing the most recommended products. We ran sentiment analysis on each of these comments to determine how redditors feel about different products. We found 101 products and ranked them based on the amount of positive reactions they received. Here are the top 20.
1. Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras
- F mount lens/DX format. Picture angle with Nikon DX format 44 degree
- 52.5 millimeter (35-millimeter equivalent). Rear focusing; Manual focus override
- Aperture range: F/1.8 to 22; Dimensions(approx.) 70 x 52.5 millimeter
- Silent wave motor AF system. Accepts filter type is screw on. Lens construction: 8 elements in 6 groups
- Compatible formats is dx and fx in dx crop mode. Maximum reproduction ratio: 0.16x
- Lens not zoomable
Features:
2. Sony Alpha a6300 Mirrorless Digital Camera with E PZ 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS Power Zoom Lens (Black)
- FASTER AUTOFOCUS: Shoot up to 11fps with 425 phase detection auto focus points and 0.05 sec AF speed
- INCREDIBLE PHOTOGRAPHY: Advanced 24.2 MP Exmore CMOS sensor expands sensitivity and minimizes noise
- ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDER: Cameras feature a high resolution XGA OLED Tru-Finder for enhanced viewing
- 4K & HD RECORDING: Record professional content with multiple movie functions and full pixel readout
- LENS INCLUDED: Sony E-Mount 16-50 mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS retractable zoom lens shoots in stunning detail
- Approx. 350 shots (viewfinder) / Approx. 400 shots (LCD screen) (CIPA standard)
Features:
3. Fotodiox Lens Mount Adapter - Nikon Nikkor F Mount D/SLR Lens to Canon EOS (EF, EF-S) Mount SLR Camera Body
- Mounts Nikon Nikkor F Mount D/SLR lenses to Canon EOS (EF, EF-S) Mount SLR Cameras. This is a manual adapter.
- High-tolerance precision craftsmanship; infinity focus or beyond allowed
- All-metal design; hardened anodized aluminum construction
- Premium grade Fotodiox adapter
- Limited 2-Year Manufacturer Warranty
Features:
4. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II Mirrorless Micro 4/3 Camera with 14-42mm and 40-150mm Lenses (Black)
Built-in 5 axis image stabilization for sharper images2.3 million dot OLED electronic viewfinder with 0.62X magnificationSilent mode (disables all shutter sounds)8.5 frames per second burst shootingFast touch auto focus from camera or phone
5. Nikon 70-300 mm f/4-5.6G Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras
Nikon 70 300 millimeter f/4 5.6G AF Nikkor SLR Camera Lens; Maximum Reproduction Ratio 0.26xFocal length range: 70 300 millimeter, minimum focus distance: 4.9 ft.; (1.5 m); maximum angle of view (dx format): 22°50', maximum angle of view (fx format) 34°20'. Minimum angle of view (dx-format)-5°20'...
6. Canon EOS Rebel T5 Digital SLR Camera Kit with EF-S 18-55mm IS II Lens
18 megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor with DIGIC 4 image processorEF-S 18-55mm IS II standard zoom lens expands picture-taking possibilities3-inch LCD TFT color, liquid-crystal monitor for easy viewing and sharingEOS 1080p full HD movie mode helps you capture brilliant resultsFeatures include continuous ...
7. SanDisk 64GB Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-I Memory Card (SDSDXXG-064G-GN4IN)
- Ideal for professionals looking to maximize post production workflow
- Read speeds of up to 95MB/s; write speeds of up to 90MB/s
- Video Speed : C10, U3, V30
- Shock proof, temperature proof, waterproof, and x ray proof
- Records Full HD, 3D, and 4K Video
- Operating temperature 13ºF to 185ºF ( 25ºC to 85 ºC), Storage temperature 40ºF to 185ºF ( 40ºC to 85ºC)
Features:
8. LimoStudio Photography Photo Portrait Studio 660W Day Light Umbrella Continuous Lighting Kit, LMS103
- ⭐Contents: [3 pcs] 45W CFL Bulb / [3 pcs] Bulb Socket / [2 pcs] White 33-inch Umbrella Reflector / [2 pcs] Black / Silver 33-inch Umbrella Reflector / [2 pcs] 82.3-inch Light Stand / [5 pcs] Velcro Cable Ties
- ⭐[1 pc] 29.8-inch Light Stand / [1 pc] Bulb Carry Bag / [1 pc] Photo Equipment Carry Bag
- ⭐45W Photo CFL Bulb: 6000K / 1820 Lumen / E26, E27 Standard Screw Base / Max Energy Saving up to 80%
- ⭐33-inch Diameter White Umbrella Reflector: Made of Enhanced Nylon / Works well with Any Flash or Lighting Fixture
- ⭐The kit is suitable for camera shooting, studio portraits, food, animals, children's fashion, industrial, scientific and technical commercial photography, etc
Features:
9. BAALAND Camera Tripod 20-70 Inch Lightweight Aluminum Compact Travel Tripod for Nikon Canon DSLR Video Camera 11LBS MAX Load with Bag
HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE - This camera tripod can be extended from 20 inches to 70 inches and can also be quickly converted to a 18 inches to 65 inches monopod according to your actual needs, and tall enough for your professional shootLIGHTWEIGHT & STABLE- Made of Aluminum and Rubber, weights 3.63 lbs /1.6...
10. Case Logic SLRC-201 SLR Zoom Holster (Black)
- Patent pending hammock system suspends your SLR above the bottom of case, providing superior impact protection
- Water-proof EVA base withstands the elements and allows the case to stand up on its own
- Memory foam on interior helps protect your delicate LCD screen
- Three zippered compartments store memory cards, batteries, cords and other accessories
- Compatible with most SLRs with a zoom lens; Material: Nylon
- Memory foam on interior helps protect your delicate LCD screen
- Fit Devices: 6.5 x 5.0 x 8.3 (LXWXH)
Features:
11. How to Shoot Video That Doesn't Suck: Advice to Make Any Amateur Look Like a Pro
- Workman Publishing Company
Features:
12. CowboyStudio EI717A Professional Video Camera Fluid Drag Tripod Head and Handle
- One (1) EI-717AH Fluid Drag Head
- One (1) 1/4 Inch Screw
- One (1) 3/8 Inch Screw
- One (1) Tripod Handle
- Please Note: This tripod only comes with one handle that can be mounted on either side.
Features:
13. 58mm Variable NDX Fader Filter ND2 - ND1000 for Canon Digital EOS Rebel SL1, T1i, T2i, T3, T3i, T4i, T5, T5i EOS60D, EOS70D, 50D, 40D, 30D, EOS 5D, EOS5D Mark III, EOS6D, EOS7D, EOS7D Mark II, EOS-M Digital SLR Cameras Which Has Any Of These Canon Lenses 18-55mm IS II, 18-250mm, 55-200mm, 55-250mm, 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6, 75-300mm, 100-300mm, EF 24mm f/2.8, 28mm f/1.8, 28mm f/2.8, 50mm f/1.4, 85mm f/1.8, EF 100mm f/2 , EF 100mm f/2.8, MP-E 65mm f/2.8, TS-E 90mm f/2.8
Provides Total Versatility in Neutral DensityAdjustable From ND2 - ND1000Have Control of Any Lighting EnvironmentSimply Turn Its Exterior Ring to Access Any of the Neutral Density SettingsSave Time Changing or Adding Filters
14. Neewer 43 Inch/110 Centimeter Light Reflector 5-in-1 Collapsible Multi-Disc with Bag - Translucent, Silver, Gold, White and Black for Studio Photography Lighting and Outdoor Lighting
- 1 panel with 5 possibilities. Includes: Gold, silver, white, black and translucent reflectors
- Premium quality, low cost-multi-reflector disc 43" /110cm
- Collapsible design - perfect for use on location and outdoor photography thanks to its compact, portable size
- Includes a carry case to keep the reflectors in optimal conditional between uses
- 5 reflectors, 5 effects. Modify and use natural and artificial light to your advantage to obtain perfect shots every time
Features:
15. Fancierstudio Lighting Kit 2400 Watt Professional Video Lighting Kit with Three Softbox Lights, Boom Arm Hairlight Softbox, Lighting Kit for Studio Photography and Continuous Lighting (9004SB2)
Professional Photography Equipment: photo studio lighting with two 16-Inch x 24-Inch and One 16-Inch x 16- Inch softbox lightsComplete lighting kit: softbox lights with 3 x light stands 6' tall (one boom arm with sandbag)Photo and video studio lighting: includes 3 x light heads able to hold 4 bulbs...
16. Sigma 10-20mm f/4-5.6 EX DC HSM Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras
- 10-20mm focal length
- 15-30mm equivalent focal length on APS-C cameras, 20-40mm equivalent focal length on Four Thirds / Micro Four Thirds cameras, 16-32mm equivalent focal length on Canon APS-C cameras
- F4-5.6 maximum aperture; F22-32 minimum
- Ring-type ultrasonic-type AF motor with full-time manual focusing
- 77mm filters
- 0.24m/9.45" minimum focus
- Available in Canon EF, Four Thirds, Pentax KAF, Sony Alpha, Sigma SA, Nikon F (DX) mounts
- Vignetting will occur if the lens is used with digital cameras with image sensors larger than APS-C size or 35mm SLR cameras.
Features:
17. Tamron AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Aspherical Lens (IF) - Canon Mount
Construction: 13 Groups/ 16 Elements Diaphragm: 7 bladesAngle of view: 78 at 45' - 31 at 11', (APS-C size equivalent)F stop range: 2.8- 32Closest Focusing Distance: 10.6in. (0.27m)Maximum Magnification: 1:4.5 Maximum Aperature: f/2.8-4
18. TAKSTAR SGC-598 Interview Microphone for Nikon/Canon Camera/DV Camcorder
10dB sensitivity enhancement and 200Hz low-frequency attenuation; to meet the different field Co-use. Use standard universal connector specifications, can be simply fixed the camera.Product Features: Specially designed for the camera and high-sensitivity condenser microphone to enhance the quality o...
19. Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3K 16.05 MP Digital Single Lens Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch OLED - Body Only (Black)
16MP Micro Four Thirds-format CMOS sensorContrast-detection AF system with claimed 0.07-second speedISO 100-12800, extendable to ISO 256006 frames per second continuous shooting1080/60p video with maximum bit rate of 72Mbps3" OLED display with 614,000 dotsBuilt-in 1.7m-dot OLED viewfinder
20. Fujifilm X-T20 Mirrorless Digital Camera w/XF18-55mmF2.8-4.0 R LM OIS Lens-Silver
24.3MP X Trans CMOS III APS C sensor with no low pass filter and X Processor Pro5.0Fps Live view shooting, start up time of 0.4sec, shutter time lag of 0.050sec And shooting Interval of 0.25sec3.0 inches tilting Touchscreen panel for operation at almost any angle; Weight (approx) excluding caps and ...
Yeah, the amazon kits, for the most part, are just junk, and the stuff you do really want is bad quality. It's substantially better to get stuff as you get more experience.
For a camera, I definitely think that you are good with a t6i or t7i. I agree with the other poster to make sure that you get an "i" because they have the swivel screen that makes life so much easier. After a quick check, you could get this referbed t6i for about $500 which is not bad. Don't worry about it coming with a kit lens, sometimes those lenses can be useful, and for the most part, since it is an "amateur" camera, they are hard to find body only. So you should be good there.
I'm not entirely sure what the "tutorial" mode is, but really do read up on the exposure triangle. It's not super difficult (there are TONS of great graphics that help explain it), and it will make your photos/videos SO much better because you will be in control, and more aware of the capabilities and limitations of your camera than if you shoot in a mode that's not manual.
Also a few quick notes about filming with DSLRs that you aren't going to see if you just look at photography sources. One, try your darnest to always shoot ISO 100 when filming. Bumping the ISO in pictures is fine because the grain is either not recognizable or is easy to remove in photos, but it is SUPER noticeable and hard to remove in video. This is because the grain changes every frame, effectively animating it. The other thing is that if you shoot higher than 60 fps, you might end up wanting to add motion blur or something because the video might look a little odd. On the contrary, for photos you'll probably want to shoot more like 200 so that handshake doesn't introduce motion blur.
The other thing that is SUPER IMPORTANT for video and just like "nice to have" for photos is a good memory card that has a high write speed. This is the one that I personally use. If the memory card doesn't have a high write speed, then your camera will just stop recording because the write speed of the memory card can't keep up with the data coming from the camera.
Also, side note, there are tons of articles that will say that canons can't shoot more than 12 minutes of video at a time because it exceeds the 4gb file size (which it can't go past due to stupid copyright laws. I don't get it either). This isn't entirely true. All the canons that I have dealt with (everything from a t3i to 70D) record fine past the 12 minute mark, just when they get done recording it will split it into 4gb files. Only one canon have I ever seen ALWAYS shut done at the 12 minute mark no matter what, so I suspect it was just broken. However, even with my own trusted camera that I have never had problems recording more than 12 minutes has recently stopped at about 30mins (my guess had to do write speeds), so just always be aware.
As far as lighting kits go, this one is pretty good for a beginer. Most people do a basic 3 point lighting which is probably fine enough for what you want to do. So with that in mind, and since you want to do green screen, you might want to get 2 of those kits. The key to doing green screen is to have a really well- and evenly- lit screen. TBH you really don't need to get a green screen kit unless you just want to. All it really is, is just a large piece of fabric anchored in such a way so that there are no wrinkles. Of course, the kits are nicer, but you may want to see if you can DIY that part.
As for a tripod, this one is probably fine for what you want to do. Just keep in mind that if you continue to do more in video/photography you will probably need to get a better one later on. I personally have one like this that I use like as a back-up, so they aren't a complete waste of money.
Hopefully this helps! If you have any more questions feel free to ask!
I got the T3i for under 600$, new, with a few semi-useful accessories. Amazon has a few deals that allow for some acc. equip. that can be useful, but is really just another selling point. These deals are usually from vendors like Photo4Less (who I got mine from, great shipping, got it within 4 days), but Canon has a good price too. This is a good DSLR, compared to many other video cameras you may have (eg- gopro, other small video-only cameras).
Image Quality
The quality of the video and photos I was able to get after a few days was fantastic. Here are some pics I took with the T3i on day 2. DAY 2!!!!!( I was still recovering from Wisdom teeth surgery. This thing shoots in about 4K+ still images, so you won't be wanting for pixels, only for less noise. Keep your ISO down to 100 or so, and you'll usually be fine. Some of my pics have lots of noise, that's because I was still learning about what makes exposure work for the first few weeks.
Video
This playlist shows the versatility of this camera, from low-light (car light) situations to good lighting (slender video) to having a friend who doesn't shoot DSLR control it (ALS video) [I should also mention that there was a bit of post-production stabilization, but that Image stabilizer is really powerful all the same], and the flip out screen speaks for itself.
Screen, Youtube use, and other camera choices
The flip-out screen is immensely single-user friendly, and allows for a great range of artistic control and frame control, when used as a facecam.
Keep in mind that it doesn't really shoot long videos too well, it stops at about 11 minutes on 1080p, but I doubt that it really should be used for that. If you need a camera to sit in one place for a long time, invest in a gopro or just use your notebook's webcam.
If you are looking to shoot something artistic, this 11 minute video limit won't be a problem, your shots shouldn't be that long.
Audio
The audio is good. Audition picked up a few persistent high-range whines, but it's not too noticeable, provided you fade it out well or don't use it's audio interchanged between a dedicated microphone (say, a blue snowball). If you've got the budget, get a RODE mic or a decent lavalier mic.
WARNINGS
Learn about ISO, Exposure, Aperture, etc. Knowing is half the battle
No build quality issues as of yet, but keep it out of the rain just in case. Not waterproof, so I hear
BUY 2 MORE BATTERIES AND A CHARGER if you plan on doing video shoots. I have a total of 3 batteries, and 2 chargers, for only 20$ above the normal cost (third party, can't think of brand) of the camera.
Buy a nice case. Here is the one I got, and it's smexy as hell.
a 64GB Memory card can't hurt, and I've got one left over from Gopro usage (microSD+adaptor will work)
I hope this review was helpful. If you want to see more informed or otherwise content (and eventually a review of the t3i then please check out my youtube channel if you wish. I post a bunch of stuff, and have about 7000 views. Leave some feedback, i'm still finding my niche.
Thanks for reading,
Chris
In the last few years, I have owned and/or used Canon 5DII, 7D, Blackmagic Pocket and now GH4. Lots of pictures (hey, I'm visual).
The basic Field Of View (FOV) of lenses don't change - a 50mm is a 50mm, no matter if the lens is made for a full-frame 35mm film camera, or a native Micro Four Thirds cam like the GH4. The only difference is the image circle a lens projects behind it is (usually) designed for the size of sensor it has to cover. If the lens is designed for a larger sensor, it can usually be used on a smaller sensor, but the FOV will appear smaller. The lens will appear more telephoto, just as if you cropped out the center of a photo on a larger camera. thus, "crop factor".
Here are the basic video shooting modes for the GH4. Now, that picture compares the modes to the full MFT sensor. 1080 uses the full width of the sensor, but not the full height, due to the 16x9 Aspect Ratio. the MFT sensor is quite a bit smaller than a "Full Frame" camera such as the Canon 5D, or an APS-C Like the 7D.
Sidenote: I said basic video shooting modes, because the v2 firmware has added several other 4K modes only really useful for pulling stills, or special-use videos in more square-ish aspect ratios (like shooting with an anamorphic lens).
Various sensor sizes, and modes within them can seem super complicated, and difficult to wrap your head around. Mainly, I think it's due to the wealth of choices available: with mirrorless cameras, you can adapt almost any lens made for stills or cinema, and quite a few lenses originally made for video. This is because the Flange Focal Distance, or the distance between the sensor and the lens mount, is so short. As long as the FFD is longer, you can adapt the lens easily with a basically a dumb tube that moves the lens farther out, and has the proper mounts at each end.
That's fine for all-manual lenses, where you can adjust the iris, focus and (for zoom lenses) focal length manually. But for more modern lenses that require electronic control, you need a "smart" adapter like the ones from Metabones. Metabones also make Speedboosters, which "condense" the image circle of a larger lens into the size of a smaller sensor, giving you three advantages: .7x wider FOV than a "dumb" adapter; 1 stop more light; and, better image detail.
If you compare the GH4s sensor sizes to other common film/video formats, it's rather on the small-ish size for either motion picture or still photography, but larger than most 1/3" or 1/2" pro video cameras of the last few decades. In 4K, it's a bit larger than the BMPCC, which is almost identical to Super-16mm film. Add a Speedbooster, and it's very similar to APS-C or Super 35mm film.
I like this general range a lot. Many of the fast & small C-mount lenses that cover the Pocket also cover 4K, and using a Speedbooster opens up (relatively) inexpensive and high-quality Canon lenses. Like any camera with a smaller sensor, telephoto is easy. Getting a true wide-angle rectilinear is where it starts to get hard and pricey. 18mm is NOT a wide angle on this size sensor without a speedbooster.
That said, my single, ideal all purpose lens would be the Tamron 17-50mm f2.8 VC, Canon Mount on a Canon Speedbooster. Why Canon instead of Nikon? Because of the flange distance, I could also use old manual Nikon lenses with a simple cheap adapter. Can't do that the other way around.
This gives me a very nice, nearly parfocal, constant f2.0 lens that goes from a nice wide to a medium telephoto. This lens and the Speedbooster are abouth 30% more than the most popular native MFT lens, but you only have to buy the SB once. If you don't need stabilization, the lens is even less.
Don't want to make any assumptions, but the right gear is pretty low on the list if you are new to filmmaking or taking video. In photography here everyone will tell you knowing what ISO/Aperature/Shutter speed mean and how to work with them will make a MUCH bigger difference then if you don't learn that and just buy nicer gear.
In video this applies DOUBLE at least. Because now when you edit it all together you will need specific shots. My wife is an excellent photographer and spent a few weeks this summer doing photography and some video work for a nonprofit working in Africa and came back with some footage that was pretty tough to use, not for the sake that she didn't have the gear or equipment. Almost unusable just because the shots were not there, not the right length, not the right distances, etc.
Focus on the video aspect, the storytelling aspect, how to take and "think in shots" first and foremost. Don't worry about the gear yet.
This is incredible and concise and I cannot recommend it enough: "How to Shoot Video that Doesn't Suck"
But not to come across smug or anything and blow off your question, some gear recommendations:
A cheap, battery powered lapel mic with extra batteries. If you do any interviews on site (you should try!) this can improve your audio dramatically for dirt cheap.
Tripods make a difference in panning and zooming and whatnot, but honestly the MAJORITY of your shots should NOT be panning and zooming shots (this was the problem with all of my wifes footage). So don't worry too much about this.
SD cards obviously you'll need very fast cards, but even on top of that some are better than others with different cameras I have no idea why. I can put a "90m/s" SD card in my 60D that works fine, and another that runs out of buffer in 5 seconds, even when trying to reduce quality or other issues. Both are the same "speed" cards! I recommend checking your specific camera or some forums where people have discussed that.
Some of those editing tips:
What it is going to boil down to is if you sent some professional video crews out with iPhones they would come back and put something much more watchable, interesting, and engaging than a group of beginners with the best equipment. This is sort of true in photography as well to some degree, but absolutely a fact in video. So focus on the important part.
Anyway tl;dr, focus on learning the language of video, filmmaking, and that kind of stuff before worrying too much about gear.
(But really let me if you have any more specific questions or need any other help, I am not professional at all, but have been doing a lot of amateur video work and editing perhaps a dozen small projects and stuff over the last few years, I can show you some specific examples of stuff too. Do a lot of overseas work and deal with portability issues and stuff. Have even been teaching a beginners crash course "media" class with the disaster relief organization I work with, mostly focuses on ethics and stuff. We send teams with a very low end but user friendly video setup I put together to use for the work we do).
Honestly I would say just do a lot of research. I know you are looking for quick answers but so many things you are asking about are really just personal preference and depend greatly on the details of what you are doing. I'll answer a couple of questions based on what are the best bang for the buck items that those of us in the cash strapped hobby world use.
Questions that are easy to answer:
> Tripod with video camera mount (I'm a real dummy here in that I don't know what's available. Personally, I've got a SLIK PRO 700DX with panhead that's fine for stills but crummy for video work. What should I buy?)
http://www.amazon.com/CowboyStudio-EI717A-Professional-Camera-Tripod/dp/B008AGMNOM/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1425530658&sr=8-12&keywords=fluid+head+tripod
That widely regarded to be one of the best budget fluid heads on the market. Put it on top of a $100 set of legs and you have a really good starting point. Although you may be best off just springing for a complete Manfrotto unit. Which exact one depends on how heavy the camera/lens combo you use. (And if you end up buying a rail system for follow focus ect.)
> Steadycam? (I don't know what you would call this but is there some sort of mount that makes it easier to do handheld video work with a DSLR? I don't know what exists)
http://www.ebay.com/sch/Cameras-Photo-/625/i.html?_from=R40&_nkw=FOTGA+S-450+PRO&rmvSB=true
Is in my opinion the best bang for the buck steadycam. Do some research again as a huge amount of using one is skill with balancing it and handling it.
Other thoughts: For the budget you have there is no reason to limit yourself to only using DSLRs. You really do limit yourself in a number of ways. (Overheating, audio, 30 min record times, handing) The Sony FS100 is only $2500 for the body and an absolutely great option. You can adapt almost any lens onto it. The Sony native catalog is growing.
I'm a bit late, but I would go with The [Canon T5] (http://www.amazon.com/Canon-Rebel-EF-S-18-55mm-Digital/dp/B00IB1BTWI/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1459307464&sr=8-12&keywords=canon) as recommended by a few others in the comments. It's just the best deal for your price range, you'll also need to pick up a decent sized SD card. If she is new to DSLRs I would recommend sticking with the kit lens for now. Save whatever is left in your budget, and use it later down the road when she has a better feel for the camera. People often think buying great glass is the key to great photos. While it is part of the equation later on, a big portion of taking better photos in the beginning is having a good working knowledge of photography along with the camera you are shooting on. Youtube has a ton of reviews, and tutorials on the Canon T5, I would recommend checking some of those out before purchasing.
You're biggest problem will not be the microphone, but what you're recording your audio onto. I found out really quick that the audio recording of a DSLR, regardless of microphone, is terrible in quality and with plenty of static noise. I use a Tascam DR-05 to record audio, in combination with either a RODE VideoMic or a lavalier (there are some really cheap ones that do an ok job for low budget productions). The Tascam DR-05 also has a pretty good mic built in , so you could probably start with just that. Remember to record the audio with your Tascam (or recorder) AND with your camera, so that you can easily sync them in post. Always remember to record a minute of silence in the room BEFORE filming so that you can have a room tone (or world tone, if outdoors) sample that can be for adding a more natural ambient sound for portions you may silence in the video.
I would also recommend you pick up:
a three point lighting kit for indoor shooting (like this one: http://www.amazon.com/Fancierstudio-Lighting-Hairlight-Softbox-9004SB2/dp/B0047FHOWG/ref=sr_1_4?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1450430338&sr=1-4&keywords=three+point+lighting+kit),
a variable ND filter for outdoor shooting (like this one: http://www.amazon.com/58mm-Variable-NDX-Fader-Filter/dp/B00QVOQWM4/ref=sr_1_7?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1450430377&sr=1-7&keywords=variable+ND+filter)
a reflector, for bouncing off light outdoors... (like this one: http://www.amazon.com/Neewer-43-inch-Collapsible-Multi-Disc-Reflector/dp/B002ZIMEMW/ref=sr_1_1?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1450430475&sr=1-1&keywords=reflector)
Extra batteries of course.
You'll find these tools useful for getting higher quality audio and picture, there are lots and lots of tutorials on YouTube that will help you learn very quickly how to use your equipment. On a final note, I don't think the Rebel SL1 was a good choice of camera. If I had to pick a Rebel camera for video, and was limited in buget, I would have gone for a Rebel T4i or T5i, in combination with magic lantern. Another important thing to remember, is make sure your SD is AT LEAST class 10 (I recommend Sandisk Extreme pro 95/mbps 32 or 64gb), and NEVER use a mini sd card with an adapter (I've had bad experiences with this).
Best of luck to you, and happy filming!
There are a lot of things wrong with this post.
The 50mm/1.8 is one of the cheapest lenses out there. Because it is a prime (instead of a zoom) they can have fairly good image quality and still offer it at a decent price.
There aren't any wide angle prime lenses in this range I'm aware of (there is a 28mm prime for $400+ but that's really not very wide on an crop sensor body). For wide angle shots your best bet is using your kit lens wide open (assuming it's something like 18mm or 28mm) and saving for a true wide angle.
Saying I want a cheap wide angle lens with good quality is like saying I want a cheap computer that can play Battlefield 3 with max settings on at full resolution. You can buy a cheap lens that might be sort of a wide angle but it's not going to perform very well.
The cheapest wide angle for a Canon that's nice is probably the Sigma 10-22mm zoom lens for close to $500.
http://www.amazon.com/Sigma-10-20mm-4-5-6-Digital-Cameras/dp/B0007U00X0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1320951022&sr=8-1
If you are looking for a good all around lens that can go fairly wide open I'd look at something like this Tamron for $500
http://www.amazon.com/Tamron-17-50mm-Aspherical-Digital-Cameras/dp/B000EXR0SI/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1320951205&sr=1-1
Hi /u/OZ4RK - to answer your question - the two main differences between the 60D and the 70D for video are:
The image quality from these two cameras is exactly the same. Sadly, that means the same amount of moire when shooting patterned subjects such as shingled roofs: http://vimeo.com/73429088
If you need video autofocus and to record for more than 12 minutes at a time - get the 70D. But don't expect any better image quality. Both cameras are susceptible to moire and artifacting.
All of that said, as a filmmaker, I wouldn't get either one of them. In addition to their moire problem, both camera have reflex mirrors that are useless for video. These mirrors block the cameras' viewfinders, so you are forced to use the LCD on back of the camera for critical composition and focus. This is OK indoors, but outdoors in bright sunlight, you may not be able to see what you're shooting. As a result, most Canon and Nikon shooters are forced to buy a "loupe" (otherwise known as an LCD viewfinder) or an even more expensive Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) in order to see what they're shooting when they are outdoors.
In addition, neither of these cameras can record full HD 1080/60fps video for in-camera slow motion.
Neither is compatible with power zoom lenses.
And neither of these cameras has a headphone jack.
Plus, you have to modify the 60D with Magic Lantern firmware to give it basic features such as audio level metering and manual level control.
At this price point, instead of these limited cameras, I recommend a [$998 (as of this post) Panasonic GH3] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009B0WREM/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B009B0WREM&linkCode=as2&tag=battleforthew) DSLM ("M" is for mirrorless). This camera can record continuously for hours instead of minutes (very useful if you ever want to record a play, a speech, a concert or other event), it records at up to 1080/60p for slow motion, it has built-in audio level meters and audio level control, it has a headphone jack - it is compatible with Panasonic power zoom lenses and it has a viewfinder that actually works while you're shooting video so you don't have to buy a loupe or EVF to see what you're shooting in bright sunlight.
Here is what this camera can do:
Music Video:
http://vimeo.com/53834993
Narrative:
http://vimeo.com/49420579
Documentary:
http://vimeo.com/66940018
There are many more examples on Andrew Reid's GH3 channel over on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/groups/gh3
It's a pretty good still camera too:
https://www.flickr.com/groups/gh3/pool/
https://www.flickr.com/groups/2042242@N25/pool/
In my view, the GH3 is the best still/video camera you can buy below $1500.
Hope this is helpful and good luck with your decision!
Bill
Here's some options that I like, if you don't mind buying used you'll have more room to buy more lenses and any other gear you'll like, but these are all new and all kits which includes the body and a lens.
If you want to stick with Nikon the D5600 is an amazing camera, the image quality and usability are awesome.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VW3KC9X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_M-GNDb4BPTVEJ
If your willing to spend a little more the D7100 is a great camera I can only find the body and not a kit but you could just get a lens separately.
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/927106-GREY
You could also buy a Used D600 for around $600-$650 with a low shutter count if you are interested in full frame, then spend the rest on a lens.
For Canon If your on a budget I'd recommend something like the rebel 7ti
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07P15K8Q7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_IgHNDb2YN44GR
If you're willing to spend more the 77D is a great option, the first link the the 77D with a 18-55 and the second is a 18-55mm + 55-250mm
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KVS93ZF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_KhHNDbV4SY44F
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y1YVWLH/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_vFHNDbWGFF6GX
As for mirrorless I recommend these cameras.
Canon EOS M50
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07TWB61Z2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_kxHNDb2NM14RY
Sony a6300
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007GK50X4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_xAHNDbN04X71G
Fujifilm X-T20 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01NCVN74T/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_pCHNDb74CQ8X6
I have the Canon 80d and like it. It’s a good well rounder and my only complaint is the low light performance (however the lens could have something to do with this). However I will mention this is $1000. An option I see often (never have used myself) and is cheaper ($500-$900) is the Sony A6000 or the Sony A6300 (or a newer model). These are mirrorless and when you look at the viewfinder and make changes, that is what the image will look like. The A6300 might be more future proof with its 4K video if video is of interest. These would be good photo options from what I can tell (but again take that with a grain of salt since I’ve only used the 80d). If you are interested in more video vs photography another cheaper option would be the Panasonic G7 and is 4K. I cannot speak for Nikon, but they seem like good budget cameras, but may be lacking video wise. But overall the glass will make more of a difference than the camera! Any of these options would be a step up from your smartphone!
Camera links (Amazon)
Sony Alpha a6000
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I8BICB2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_7eQkDbQD2A5PY
Sony Alpha a6300
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007GK50X4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_5gQkDbYD1ET6T
Panasonic G7
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00X409PQS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_aiQkDbKSNBTTR
Canon 77D (80D alternative)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06VSTCWJ9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_4kQkDbJGAEWNA
Canon 80D
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BUYK04A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ZjQkDbTAJB668
I went with a 4/3 sensor mirrorless camera, the Olympus OM-D EM10 Mark II. For under $600 I have two kit lenses and in-body stabilization. I love the photo quality.
It is smaller and lighter, so I carry it more places than I might a A6000 (which I considered) with it's heavier larger lenses. The impetus was an upcoming ship cruise in Europe where I'll be on-shore a bunch and seeing historical sites and such.
I think the Panasonic G7 is also 4/3 sensor format.
The Mark III version of the Olympus OM-D also is worth considering.
Here is the Amazon link to the deal I got, and you might find it cheaper at Adorama:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CIXJK16?th=1
It depends a lot on what you'll be shooting of course.
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i'd probably bring a big zoom and a 35mm prime lens, because it will end up being about 50mm with your D3500's 1.5x crop.
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https://www.amazon.com/Nikon-AF-S-NIKKOR-Focus-Cameras/dp/B001S2PPT0/ref=sr_1_3?crid=5X4G5LA01DVH&keywords=35mm+lens+nikon&qid=1567596975&s=gateway&sprefix=35mm+lens%2Caps%2C138&sr=8-3
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https://www.amazon.com/Nikon-70-300-4-5-6G-Focus-Cameras/dp/B00005Y3OM/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=zoom+lens+nikon&qid=1567597006&s=gateway&sr=8-1
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can't beat either for the price.
I often bring the so-so kit lens on hiking trips as well, since it's frankly pretty durable and essentially disposible, very replaceable. I wouldn't mind if i broke it.
http://www.amazon.com/Fotodiox-07LAnkeos-Mount-Adapter-Camera/dp/B001G4QXLE/ref=sr_1_1?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1371271556&sr=1-1&keywords=nikon+to+canon+lens+adapter
I've heard some people say this adapter is not tight but I've got a few of them and never had a that with them. They are pretty cheap and very simple, and unlike some adapter (like the minolta lens adapter) it does not have a piece of glass on it. You can go to a photo supply store and get a "better" adapter for maybe 40 or 50 bucks, but it's the exact same thing.
First, thank you so much for the clarification on the camera body, but are you referring to something like this?
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001S2PPT0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_O82KAb09HY1SV
for around this price you don't really have a lot of choices.
You can find a Canon T5 or with some luck a T6
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IB1BTWI/ref=psdc_3017941_t2_B01LQMI4V2
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XNTPN8C/ref=psdc_3017941_t2_B00IB1BTWI
or the Nikon 3300
https://www.amazon.com/Nikon-D3300-AF-P-18-55mm-Digital/dp/B01JN28QQA/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1518111206&sr=1-3&keywords=nikon+D3300
And the sony offer in this price range is the 5100, that is a mirrorless, nor a DSLR.
I do prefer the Canon, but mostly because I have a Canon and lots of accessories. I bought a T6 for my sister so she can borrow what she needs.
Used market is a mess... Sometimes you get a Canon 5D for 300, and sometimes you can't even get a T5i... And you never know about the shutter, if it is busted or working fine.
Buy new or refurbished, it is "safer".
I would consider a little bit higher price point and maybe a mirrorless.