So, long story short, I took on a role at my job that I'm not too familiar with, videographer. I'm the graphic designer for my VA, but I didn't have to make videos. So I've been asked to start shooting some promo videos for the changes in our hospital.
I need a recommendation for a good video camera, kind of a do it all camera that takes good pictures also.
But it needs to be government cheap, cause we are all paying for it.

Also, what software do you use to edit?

Thanks

Software depends on the goal. Cutting clips and audio its Adobe premiere. For creating effects and typography type stuff Adobe After Effects.

Both are somewhat different but relatively the same. There are some great youtube videos on how to use them out there.

At the recommendation of the sigforum I just picked up the Canon Rebel T7i but I am going for more Vlog format. You can create awesome video with them and use them for photography as well.

I did a lot of googling on best camera for video and pictures to find that's what I wanted. All in with gear, it ended up about $1100.

The software is 50 a month if you get all of adobe. There is free stuff out there but Adobe seems to be one of the top for video editing

Thanks for the reply.
The good news is I found a Nikon D some number, 5700 maybe that'll do our video. We are working to purchase adobe CC, so it looks like I'll be all set. Thanks for the help, I'll be sure to look at YouTube university, also.

if you need any help just let me know. There's a bit of a curve but its fairly intuitive if you are used to adobe.

Couple folks on youtube:

Terry White - is a developer or something for adobe***edit long thorough videos

Sonduckfilm - great 20 minute how tos

flatpackfx - great after effects how toos

Peter Mckinnon - more photography related but really good ad includes Premiere

TutVid - all adobe

After Effects Tutorials w mikey - lots of good stuff

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Deqlyn,

quote:

Originally posted by Deqlyn:
if you need any help just let me know. There's a bit of a curve but its fairly intuitive if you are used to adobe.

Couple folks on youtube:

Terry White - is a developer or something for youtube, long thorough videos

Sonduckfilm - great 20 minute how tos

flatpackfx - great after effects how toos

Peter Mckinnon - more photography related but really good ad includes Premiere

TutVid - all adobe

After Effects Tutorials w mikey - lots of good stuff

Awesome. I appreciate you taking the time. I'll check them out and if I get stuck, I'll reach out.

In addition to Premiere Pro and/or AfterEffects, if you are on an Apple system, iMovie comes built in to the computer.
It is much easier to learn and operate, but you are limited to transitions/titles that come with it.
Just an alternative suggestion.
Also, if your agency has access to Lynda.com, they have in-depth classes in just about any editing software made.

I love my Canon D80 for video and pictures. For editing, Adobe Premier and After Effects are the best. If you want something free, DaVinci Resolve is the best by far. Some of the cool transitions and effects are locked in the free version, but it has a lot of good stuff for not costing a dime.

When I was editing video, my go-to for simple home walkthrough videos (no voice-overs, only sound was the royalty-free music we played, transitions were standardized fade-from-white, cross-fade as many times as needed, and then fade-to-white) was Photoshop CC.

After Effects helped when I was using a slider on a tripod because of the warp stabilizer tool.

I've used PS, Premiere Pro and I've test-driven a few other programs (Sony Vegas crosses my mind as one that didn't make the cut).

For learning, I've tried youtube a few times, but AFX really didn't start "clicking" until I got a trial from Lynda.com. Now, I'm not nearly as proficient in it as I am with PS (which I know because I've been at least putzing with off and on for the past 10-15 years and I'm a quick study when it suits me ), but I can muddle my way through.

For a versatile camera that's budget-friendly, I recommend models like the Canon EOS Rebel series or Sony Alpha a6000. These are great for both video and photography and won't break the bank. As for editing software, if you're looking for something robust yet approachable, you might want to explore options in professional video editing software. These platforms offer a range of features that can help enhance your promotional videos significantly, making them look polished and engaging.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: rcpylon,

Your phone can take pretty good video nowadays. Just get a Gimbal Stabilizer for it. I use Wondershare Filmora to edit videos. Very easy to learn.

My professional experience is right in line with this as well... Most any modern DSLR or mirrorless camera will be just fine for your needs. As others have stated, iPhones truly are excellent for the package at shooting video.... Anything newer than an iPhone 10 Pro is good enough for most uses. They even see use is professional news gathering circles, at times.

If your videos will include spoken word you NEED an appropiate microphone setup. I can help with guidance there, if needed. Do not use the built in mics on any camera, they're trash. Trust me.

As far as software, there are pretty much 3 widely used in the industry.... Adobe CC suite (Premiere is the editing program), Final Cut, and Davinci Resolve. All 3 have relatively steep learning curves but a ton on functionality, Much better than imovie type products.

Bonus info: Davinci Resolve is totally free.