There are many video and still cameras on the market for photography and videography. The eyes of amateurs and professionals run wild. Hence the question: which is better - a video camera or a still camera?
Let's consider the features of those and other devices that affect the quality of filming. And the choice is yours.
Video camera or SLR: what is the main difference when shooting video
A single-lens reflex camera (DSLR) houses a photo sensor. The light beam hits it thanks to a system of mirrors and prisms. The photographer, using the viewfinder, sees in real time what is in the frame. When you press the record button, the mirror rises and the light falls on the sensor, which captures the image.
Importantly! The SLR focuses faster than the video camera. Therefore, during continuous shooting, the image quality will not suffer.
In a video camera, the light passing through the lens immediately hits the sensor, which displays the image in real time on the screen. Such devices are equipped with removable lenses. Therefore, the quality of the photo will be at a high level, because the functionality of the device is expanding.
Let's consider in more detail what is better — a video camera or a camera according to the features of their work.
Image quality
Modern devices do an equally good job of image processing, although the contrast may be worse in a video camera. But this will not affect the overall picture.
Sound recording
The specialty of video cameras is how good the built-in microphone is. Therefore, such devices are suitable for professional filming. SLRs are more versatile (although they were not originally intended for video recording), so the sound is not good enough in some models. To improve the sound, you have to connect an external microphone to record sound.
Ergonomics
The camera is usually held with both hands in front of you while shooting. One video camera. Therefore, the video camera is better in terms of ergonomics. It all depends on personal tactile preferences. You just need to make sure before buying that the device is comfortable to hold.
Autonomy
A DSLR works longer because there is no need to waste battery power to output the image for viewing on the LCD display.
Stabilization
When filming, the footage may be blurry. This happens as a result of shaking the camera in the hands during photography. To avoid shaking of the SLR and video camera, they are equipped with an image stabilization system. Today, the stabilization function is a necessity that will come in handy for beginners and professionals.
Focusing
The focus is the point where the rays reflected from the image converge. In order for the image to be in focus, the focus point must be located on the device's matrix. This process takes place in the lens. It contains lenses that, moving forward or backward, change the path of light. For example, moving the camera lens away from the filming object will change the focus position.
Focusing occurs manually or automatically. In the second case, the camera automatically controls the motor that moves the lenses in the lens. To do this manually, turn the focused ring on the lens.
Autofocus is often used by novice users who have not figured out how to correctly adjust the focus position. In SLRs, autofocus wins over video cameras, if it is necessary to shoot fast-moving objects.
Technical indicators
Let's consider the general indicators of video cameras and still cameras.
VIDEO CAMERA | SLR |
|---|---|
Matrix type CCD. Cheap technology. Image information is read sequentially from each cell of the matrix. Installed in inexpensive devices. Suitable for a simple user. CMOS. Efficient CCD in terms of speed. Image data is read simultaneously from all light-sensitive elements. The image is clear in minimal lighting. Such matrices are suitable for professionals who shoot with a low shutter speed | Matrix type CCD. Cheap technology. Image information is read sequentially from each cell of the matrix. Installed in inexpensive devices. Suitable for a simple user. CMOS. Efficient CCD in terms of speed. Image data is read simultaneously from all light-sensitive elements. The image is clear in minimal lighting. Such matrices are suitable for professionals who shoot with a low shutter speed |
Expansion The minimum is Full HD (1920x1080). Sufficient for filming from a distance of up to 150 meters. It is used in amateur shooting. Optimal — 4K or 8K. Sufficient for professional processing while preserving high-quality images. Real stereo sound is recorded. Used to create event reports, amateur films and music videos | Expansion Measured in megapixels. Modern devices have up to fifteen megapixels for everyday filming. This extension is sufficient if you do not need to print and edit pictures, but only to view them on the SLR. Resolutions over fifteen megapixels are suitable for professionals |
Pros and cons of video cameras
Disadvantages:
* Photics are primarily designed for taking pictures, so they are equipped with a built-in weak microphone. The sound of pressing buttons, scrolling the wheel is recorded.
* No image stabilization. When filming, the image may shake.
* Auto mode is mediocre, you need to set the device for shooting.
Benefits:
* Many settings that allow you to achieve a clear image of the picture. You can shoot in low light.
* Repositioning the appropriate lens for the appropriate filming conditions frees up the hands in the search for the necessary angles.
* With proper practice and installation of additional devices (microphone, lens), a two-in-one device is obtained: photo and video camera.
Pros and cons of video cameras
Strengths:
* Good ergonomics. It fits comfortably in the hand, so it is good to shoot on such a device. The hand does not get tired.
* Capacious batteries, the possibility of installing a battery of increased capacity. You can record longer videos. For example, budget devices shoot videos for up to two hours in a row. Miniature devices - up to five hours in a row. Models with the most powerful batteries - up to twenty.
* Continuous video recording. Convenient for long (over twenty minutes) recording. You can shoot without restrictions.
* Light weight (about two hundred grams). It feels almost invisible in the hand. It is convenient to carry with you.
* Full automation on most devices. No need to configure anything. Enable and use. Contrast brightness is adjusted automatically.
Disadvantages:
* The matrix is small, so the detailing of filming is lame.
* Poor video quality when shooting indoors. If the video camera does not have enough light, it starts to raise the ISO (a parameter that indicates the level of sensitivity to light). And because of the small matrix, the noise at high ISO is stronger.
Video camera or still camera: what should an amateur choose, and what should a professional choose?
Experienced photographers appreciate the convenience — the way the camera sits in the hands. Of course, they pay attention to autofocus, shooting speed (important for reportage filming), matrix (the higher, the better the shot). A mirrorless camera thrives in this regard, as it is compact, with simplified controls, and you can see how the photo will be saved on the preview. Its touch display is used in the same way as in a smartphone.
Buying a video camera is justified if the emphasis is on filming videos. Because the signal processing algorithm is optimally configured to work with video. If, for example, you need to clearly record your child's first steps or a sports competition, use a video camera.
We considered which is better, a video camera or a camera for video. The quality of the video will be good both when shooting with a camera and with a camera. The first are good because of their versatility. Others are sharpened for narrow specialization and the ability to shoot continuously. The video camera is good for operators who emphasize video and photography as a bonus.
Choose your camera at the official website WEX PHOTO VIDEO.
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