A DSLR is a tool when properly used can provide superb images and yes, is used extensively by pros. I recently attended a presentation by Alex Buono the DP of the film unit at NBC’s Saturday Night Live. He talked about how over the past few years they went from working entirely on film, to “pro” cameras like the Red, to DSLRs (Canon 5DmkII and 7D). The SNL opening sequence for example, was filmed entirely with a 5DmkII and a 7D using stock Canon lenses (mostly the 50mm f1.2). They use DSLRs because they are the best tools for what they do, not because they can’t afford “real” cameras (they certainly can).

Lets look at the disadvantage that you mention and how we work around them:

“Recording format below average, it is a consumer level h.264, wish requires formatting to another codec for editing which will effect the quality of the image”

H264 is the codec used by most camcorders these days including many professional camera. When properly transcoded there is little loss of information.

“The jello effect, if you move the camera to fast image can wobble like jello”

This is not a problem if you use an image stabilized lens when not on a tripod and are reasonably careful about camera movement.

“The moire problem, this is a huge disadvantage when compared to a real video camera”

Turn down the in-camera sharpening to reduce this. Moire is also a problem with “real cameras” too.

“No Full automatic mode on DSLR, if you are recording a live event sometimes there is just enough time to turn on the camera and record. With a DSLR there is a good chance that you would miss these once in a life time moments. DSLR video works much better in a controlled environment like a studio.”

We seldom use full automatic mode on any camera. Even with run and gun wedding video, we rarely shoot full auto. A skilled camera operator can work in manual mode even on a DSLR.

“Shallow Depth of field could be a real problem. It works great when your in studio and have time to check your focus maybe even measure the distance, but at live event you don’t have that time, better have very good camera operator. Sure a shallow depth of field can look awesome but it really sucks when your main subject is out focus.”

This can be an issue but with practice you can learn to set your focus accurately.

“To say you providing a true pro hd image with a DSLR is very misleading, even older video cameras like the hvx200 will provide a better hd image in most situation then a DSLR.”

I disagree. While I do not have (nor can afford) an hvx200, I do know that I get a better HD image from the 7D than from the XH-A1 which is considered a pro camcorder. Now if you compare a DSLR with a Red or other high end studio camera, the Red will come out on top, but again I can’t afford a Red. I have looked at Sony’s new camera (I can’t remember the model number) that has a large format sensor and interchangeable lenses. It is a true camcorder which addresses most of the issues with DSLRs. The selling price is about $6000 which while a lot more than a DSLR, is at least within the price range for an event videographer. I was impressed and when it comes time to replace the A1′s, I may go for the Sony. But for now the 7D is a very important piece of equipment.

One other point – In wedding videography there is a huge advantage to DSLRs. It doesn’t look like a video camera. This really helps when it comes to being unobtrusive. The bigger XH-A1s attract much more attention from guests.

There are some major distadvantages to DSLRs;

Recording format below average, it is a consumer level h.264, wish requires formatting to another codec for editing which will effect the quality of the image

The jello effect, if you move the camera to fast image can wobble like jello

The moire problem, this is a huge disadvantage when compared to a real video camera

No Full automatic mode on DSLR, if you are recording a live event sometimes there is just enough time to turn on the camera and record. With a DSLR there is a good chance that you would miss these once in a life time moments. DSLR video works much better in a controlled environment like a studio.

Shallow Depth of field could be a real problem. It works great when your in studio and have time to check your focus maybe even measure the distance, but at live event you don’t have that time, better have very good camera operator. Sure a shallow depth of field can look awesome but it really sucks when your main subject is out focus.

To say you providing a true pro hd image with a DSLR is very misleading, even older video cameras like the hvx200 will provide a better hd image in most situation then a DSLR.

I frequently attend state, regional and national meeting to learn from others to find new and interesting approaches to providing bridal parties with a special event that they will always remember.

Cheers.