Following the strong movement from film cameras to digital, the film and video production industry has rapidly advanced in the quality of content produced. From larger cinema quality cameras to smaller consumer based DLSRs, image quality and resolution continues to surpass the previously impressive standards. Complementing small projects such as wedding videography or massive big-budget motion pictures, innovation has allowed production companies of all sizes to accomplish any project set in front of them.
The Introduction of Consumer DSLRs
One of the biggest providers in the DSLR market is Canon, acting as a staple since the release of the EOS D30 in 2002. Although the company did not offer digital video at the time, it paved the way for future cameras by establishing a body style and small size for future models. Advancing and implementing newer features, Canon reached the pinnacle of price and performance following the release of the EOS 5D Mark III in 2012.
Offering a full-frame CMOS sensor, Canon was among the first compact digital cameras to offer cinema quality picture for a fraction of the cost. Big budget films such as Black Swan (2010), Mad Max: Fury Road (2015), Drive (2011), and Elysium (2013) all utilised cameras from the EOS 5D line in their production.
After the success of the EOS 5D, the DSLR market exploded in popularity. As a result, many competitors quickly followed suit, developing the Panasonic’s GH series, the Nikon’s D series, and the Pentax K-1 in an effort to mimic Canon’s success. Video production in Brisbane, along with other major cities across the country, saw a change not only in cinema film production, but also in smaller marketing firms. Many production companies capitalised on the innovation as well.
Common Consumer Uses for DSLR Cameras
The practicality and convenience of a small bodied, but powerful DLSR camera is now an essential part of every production team’s repertoire. With an ease of portability and use, videographers and smaller production teams have chosen to implement these cameras into many of their projects.
Wedding videographers love the ability to easily navigate a crowded event and also the convenience of easily switching to still photos on the fly. Smaller productions can now capture live events, such as concerts and speeches, by utilising multiple cameras to cover all the action without missing a moment.
Sales and marketing departments of larger businesses have also seen the benefits, using in-house equipment and staff to promote their products. Training videos, interviews, testimonials, commercials, and online marketers have all implemented DSLR cameras into their productions.
Best DSLR Cameras on the Market
The margin of difference between high and low end cameras is steadily closing, with the release of many affordable and effective cameras. The Canon EOS series has remained the pack leader, since the release of the 5D Mark IV in late 2016. Nikon’s best offering is the D5000, sporting 20.9 megapixels and 4K video. The market is currently flooded with high-quality DSLR options that successfully fit the budget of any buyer.