Photography|Motion Picture Fusion

There is a new way to capture and view the world on the horizon that is quickly becoming the buzz around the wedding industry. Canon and Nikon recently introduced new hybrid cameras that capture both still photography and motion picture all from the very same system. This new advancement in photography will no doubt change the product offering of studios around the world if they haven't already. Early adopters of this new medium are giving rave reviews.

While much has been upgraded on the still photography front as well, the video being captured by these state of the art systems offer dramatically more detail than current HD video cameras and Canon's newest camera even captures in full 35mm 1080p. There are a few unanswered questions that couples will have about this technology and since I have first hand experience, I thought I would share a little insight...

Will this allow couples to replace the cost of videography?
The answer to that is clearly no. Having worked with the systems I can say without question that one photographer simply cannot capture both video and still photographs at the same time. While in theory it can be done, in the real world working environment of fast paced weddings, trying to do both will end in something being missed. Whether you hire a photographer or video company with this technology or not, it is imperative that you make sure that there is a person dedicated to motion picture and a second person dedicated to still photography.

Is this new hybrid concept better?
Better in some ways, yes. However different is a more accurate word to describe what can be done. These systems are smaller than current HDV or HD cameras allowing artists to work even more unobtrusively than ever before. They can also capture more detailed video in lower light conditions that any other HD cameras on the market making them perfect for weddings. The look of the footage is sharper and the color renderings are far superior as well. Compliment all of this with every lens Canon and Nikon makes being able to mounted onto the camera and new worlds open up for visual artists.

There are a few drawbacks in sound production. While the sound on the cameras is very good, as of this date, they are lacking the ability to mix sound from multiple microphones. This is useful in many areas of videography, but certainly not a must. What really matters is that you like what you see and hear when you are interviewing potential video artists. However, I must suggest that you seek out videographers or still photographers that are utilizing these new cameras to see for yourself because the image quality is so superior.

What are the options for my wedding?
Many photographers I have talked to have plans to blend a few motion picture clips into a slideshow along with their still photographs with this new technology at an attractive price point. Videographers we have spoken with are considering the cameras for key moments such as low light situations but will blend this footage with their current HD or HDV cameras to offer couples the best of both worlds. The door is now wide open and each company will likely use this their own way. Therefore I wouldn't dare compare based on price at all, but rather how each company uses the technology to it's full potential. There will be a wide range of products and options available for weddings. What matters is that you learn, know, and understand what each company is capable of before making a decision.

In Closing...
Keep an open mind right now when it comes to the fusion of motion picture and stills. It will take some time before professionals can wrap their heads and hands around what products couples get excited about. However, based on what we are seeing first hand, I have to suggest that you at least ask about this new technology and plan on seeing the difference for yourself. While video is often an afterthought, you might want to take a strong look again, because video is just about to be stepped up to big screen qualities that radiate art and style.

Imagine having a documentary so visually powerful that you and your friends experience a wow factor. In the right hands this new technology will offer just that. Plus.. you can take it with you on your phone everywhere you go, stream it on the web, and much much more. Now how cool is that?