Mitch Todd's Lounge Discussions

I agree, Patrick. Also, understanding the craft means comprehending the heart of filmmaking, which is to engage the audience. A Red One can do that and so can a DSLR. This means the focus is not on the equipment but the story and experience it brings out of the viewer.

It is a great opportunity for really low budget filming. But the unintended out of focus moments in cinematic movement with a DSLR are telling and so often the glass is not high enough quality and a zoom lens rather than a good set of primes.

Good point Edwin, but I was responding to the technical question. If we are going to that point , then I would take something shot on a iPhone and decent sound design and ADR over a nicely shot film with bad sound. (like so many student and amateur efforts have) And with a good script and artful design and great acting , you can do something good on an iPhone.. but you are not likely to do so. You want to chose a camera that is practical within your budget and I advise to know go too cheap on the camera department or you might waste all the rest of the efforts in your well-designed and well-executed production.

Well, gee, I dunno. I know of at least five TV Series that are shot on DSLR's (particularly the 7D), and many an Indie Movie is shot on them. They're easier to handle and easier to Post with. I'm planning on shooting my Indie projects with one. Only the Big Features still shoot celluloid.

but as you say Simon, the cost difference of 15,000 USD or so is not a risk you might be willing to take in a feature budgeted at a few million USD. But it is dreadfully critical to the semi-pro. Depends upon the production and the intended distribution.