Choosing the Right Digital Camera for Film-Making: Canon 50D vs T4i

When considering which digital camera to invest in for film-making, two popular options often come up: the Canon 50D and the Canon T4i (650D). While both models have their merits, neither is entirely suitable for professional film-making based on your specific needs. Let's delve into the details.

The Canon 50D and Its Limitations

The Canon 50D, while a capable stills camera, is not well-suited for film-making due to limitations in its design. This is especially true without the Magic Lantern firmware, which can extend its capabilities. Even with Magic Lantern installed, the 50D still has several issues that make it a poor choice for video:

It was not designed for video recording, which means it may not handle long-term recording or high-quality video elegantly. Videos recorded in manual mode may not retain their quality, especially in terms of focus and color stabilization. The autofocus (AF) system, when live-viewing, is suboptimal, which can ruin shots.

Furthermore, this camera does not come with face detection or tracking features, which are commonly used in film-making. Without Magic Lantern, these features are non-existent, making the 50D a less viable option.

The Canon T4i (650D): A Passable Choice for Filming

The Canon T4i (also known as the T6i or 650D in some regions) is more suitable for film-making, but it still falls short in several areas. Here's why:

The T4i has a solid video recording capability, especially considering its price point. Once Magic Lantern is installed, many of its drawbacks can be mitigated, making it a more versatile option. The live-view autofocus system can be challenging, especially in low light or complex scenes with moving subjects.

The Importance of Manual Focus in Film-Making

A crucial point to consider for film-making is the importance of manual focus. Autofocus systems, even when deemed "good," can introduce unwanted fluctuations in your shot, especially during scenes with rapid changes in subject or environment. Professional film-makers, including those working with high-end professional equipment, often avoid relying on autofocus.

A camcorder like the Sony PMW-EX1R, known for its excellent video quality and advanced autofocus, is still used primarily in manual focus mode. This is a common practice among professional broadcasters and cinematographers around the world.

The key takeaway is: focus manually. For those who find it difficult, using old manual focus lenses with adapters can be an effective solution, particularly when paired with Cooke lenses or other cine lenses that are compatible with your camera.

Optimizing Your Camera for Film-Grade Output

To achieve a cinematic look, you can also optimize your camera's settings by setting the picture profile to Neutral and then adjusting Contrast and Saturation slightly (two steps down from the factory preset). This will give you a flatter image profile that is more suitable for minor color correction and grading.

By focusing manually and optimizing your settings, you can achieve a professional-grade film look with your Canon T4i (650D).

Conclusion

The choice between the Canon 50D and T4i (650D) for film-making ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. While the 50D is not ideal, the T4i with Magic Lantern can be a viable and cost-effective option. Remember, manual focus and adjustments to your camera settings can greatly enhance the quality of your film.