Planet 5D: Using Canon HDSLRs for Video

Welcome to our Video primer - or the "how to shoot video on Canon HDSLR guide". Using the HDSLR as a video camera is easy, but mastering it is a bit harder. It isn't exactly the same as using the simple Canon Camcorder you've been using to capture the rug rats running around the house. The HDSLR doesn't do the autofocus like your camcorder does and it isn't a fixed focal length either. Most of the experts are recommending you do manual focus "like the pros do" - there is a simple focus technique you can use to start out your shot, but after you begin a take, you'll have to make any focus adjustments manually.

A lot of this material comes from specific posts about the Canon EOS 5D Mark II - however, in most cases, it now applies to all of the Canon HDSLRs.

Get started by reading thru this page and watching this video from the Event Videographer's Resource Overview (almost a marketing piece from Canon) and then the videos that come in the first section:

There are a few quick videos i would suggest you watch to get a feel for the camera and how to shoot video. Sure, you can struggle on your own (it isn't rocket science), but i found that a few quick lessons saved me some time getting started.

• Canon 5D mk ii Master class - well worth a watch especially if you’re newish to the camera.
• Introduction to the 5D Mark II’s Video Feature Bruce Dorn - hands on with the Canon 5D - also iDC On Location Preview
• 20 minute trainer - How To Shoot Video with the Canon 5D MKII must see!
• How To Use Video Mode on the Canon 5D MK II by Tyler Ginter (see the HD version here on vimeo)

The DSLR Cinematography Guide a very good introduction to doing video with the VDSLR

Some good overview videos from jonvideo on youtube (make sure to watch in HD by clicking the link right below the video that says "Watch in High Quality")

• Canon 5D Mark II: Camera Walkaround Learn the way around the Canon 5D Mark II with a quick walkaround the camera body.
• Canon 5D Mark II: Live View This short video goes over the Live View function on your Canon 5D Mark II Camera
• Canon 5D Mark II 2 Dial Functions This short video goes over the controls and functions of the top dial
• Canon 5D Mark II Top Buttons All the top buttons of the Canon 5D Mark II explained to get you off and running.
• Canon 5D Mark II:: Image Playback Learn all about the Image Playback on your Canon 5D Mark II
• Canon 5D Mark II:: Shooting Info Screen Learn how to read and manipulate the shooting info screen on the Canon 5D Mark II.
• Canon 5D Mark II:: Creative Auto Mode Learn how to use new creative auto mode on the 5D Mark II, which allows for some quick advanced settings for the beginner.
• Canon 5D Mark II Live View face recognition focus demo Learn the way around the auto focus live view face recognition feature in live view mode on the 5D.

• Canon's EOS 5D Mark II: Movie Mode Basics