I'm making a short film and I need to know which digital camera is best. Where in NYC can I rent one for a reasonable price? And any tips would be more than helpful! :) I agree the Canon XL1 is the best option for starting. Though I agree in theory with HD cameras, I have mixed feelings about the reality of them
1) They are not so amazing unless you get a higher end camera
2) 24fps is only good if the short is going to be transfered to film otherwise you will get a motion blur.
3) They take up heaps of drive space editing and can be a pain with editing programs, especially if you are not working in NTSC format.
IF first film XL1. When filming I think getting a decent lens is the most important part.
Tips - white balance to your light and don't mix. Never rely on auto focus. Set to manual to avoid searching.
Now having said this - you are prob rolling your eyes if you've already made films. But if you have not - those tips are important : ) I use a canon XL1S and it does the job well. It's quiet and offers the 24 FPS film "look" option. THe mic is somewhat sub-par, but nothing an external boom mic can't take care of.
I hear the Sony DX50 (I think it's a DX50) is one of the best, but pricey. "Sony HDC-950" this is the one used to film "Sin City" it also gives 24fps like 35mm film cameras; check for the latest Sony HD cameras depending on your budget. Don't go for anything less than HighDefinition "HD" cameras.
If you can't get Sony then go for Canon. | 