Any disadvantages in using a DSLR as an everyday camcorder?

[GilbertGrape]

I'm looking at the D7000 specifically.

I know it doesn't have a flip-out lcd, but can it do everything a dedicated camcorder can do?

[North West Tom]

In terms of video quality, yes. You'll just need a steady hand! If you're going to use the camera just for video, it might be worth checking out a few Canons for the 60fps.

[GilbertGrape]

I already own a D80, so would prefer to stay with Nikon.

I'm going abroad later in the year for a holiday and don't really want to carry 2 cameras if I can help it.

[Dave 500]

The sound quality will be very poor but Rode and Sennhiser now make mic's that stick on the flash attachment.

Something like this

http://www.rodemic.com/mics/videomicpro

Other than that the auto focus is not normally as good as a video camera and battery life will probably not be as good.

I think all DSLR's also have a record limit on 29 mins but probably won't really matter to most people.

If it was me and I already had a DSLR I would happily use it for video but would get a mic stuck on top.

The other thing to think about is storage, you will probably be recording at 14 meg per second plus so it won't take long to fill cards up.

Edited by Dave 500 on Friday 27th April 15:08

[Oxygen2k10]

It's a wee bit fiddly. You will generally have to use manual focus as the auto focus during video on the current DSLR's is pretty hit and miss. Also you will be able to hear the focus ring turning during filming which can be annoying (unless you get an external mic as mentioned above)

If you do down this route though, getting a lens with IS/VC/VR will make a big difference to camera shake. Some of the more recent Tamron lenses have fantastic 'Vibration Control'.

E.g.

http://youtu.be/mpzpUzxQ1Eg

[GetCarter]

Most (if not all) export as .MOV which can be a bit of a pain to work with on a PC - many progs not recognising the format)

[GilbertGrape]

hmm...any recommendations on a good prosumer hd-video camera?