best dslr for video under 600$ budget for short films

karnacgartist

Estimable
Dec 4, 2015
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4,510
i am a beginner and wanted to shoot some shorts so i need to know which dslr to go for under 600$ budget currently i am thinking of nikon d5300 or canon eos 700d(t5i) any other recommendation will be
great help
 
Is there any room in the budget for lenses? The T5i has some minor upgrades from the T4i and if you look at the specs you won't find much of a difference. I own a T4i which is considered an entry level DSLR and have been pleased with the picture and video quality. If you go with a DSLR lenses will be your biggest investment. Quality lenses aren't cheap. Nikon is a solid choice and Nikon has a great reputation. Again it comes down to the quality of the lenses you use and the user. Is this strictly for video production? If so, would you consider a camcorder instead?
 
I'm going to have to second kenrivers's suggestion about using a camcorder instead. Unless you know what you're doing, DSLR video is actually very difficult to get right, and though some newer cameras can focus quite well in video mode, you'll need (fairly expensive) STM lenses to get reasonable results.
 
I would invest in a Canon 600D if you can get your hands on one, maybe used if you know what to look for. Install Magic Lantern, and you will also have a swivel screen which helps with a lot of shots. I used to use a Canon 600D on a slider, and the swivel screen helped out a ton, just to name one scenario. Out of the two, I would go with the Canon due to Magic Lantern.

DSLR video is not difficult to get right, basically 3 settings and lighting will get you started and produce great shorts. Invest in a couple of lenses for different shots. You don't need STM lenses, you can do it manually, or invest in a follow focus, they're not that expensive. Point is, definitely start with a SLR and not a camcorder, if you're really into filmmaking even though you haven't put your ideas on video yet.
 

Rudi Maes

Estimable
Dec 13, 2015
16
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4,570
An entry level DSLR is not really made for video (alltough they do it, you have less control, when you're filming).
Better to take a look at a mirrorless.
The Panasonic G7 is one of the best, budgetwise, for video. It also can do 4K.
Rudi