Here at planet5D, we try to bring you the best HDSLR content and news on the planet and it isn't always easy for just one writer to provide the wide variety of content that you'd like to see – so today, we're starting to bring you material from writers other than just good old planetMitch. It will especially helpful since they'll be focusing on different aspects of the HDSLR revolution as well. Today's first post is written by planetSven. We met planetSven in the HDSLR chat room a while ago and found out that not only is he a noob (for those of you maybe not familiar with the term ‘noob', it is a derivation of ‘newbie' and is pronounced the same way) but he has decided to start his HDSLR awakening with the Panasonic GH2 – something that has been under-reported here on planet5D. So we welcome today's first post by planetSven!

What’s the most revolutionary aspect of the HDSLR phenomenon? It’s the affordability, especially for amateurs. Technology for professional film and video is now priced within reach of many beginner enthusiasts. This democratization has spawned a swarm of newbies scouring the internet, trying to figure out how to make their filmmaking dreams come true. One of the most common noob questions is, “Should I buy the 60D or GH2?”

This is obvious to experienced HDSLR professionals, but I’m not speaking to them. I’m a wide-eyed HDSLR newcomer who bought into the revolution a few months ago. And planet5D has graciously asked for my perspective.

What’s the first big step for a newbie who wants to create quality HDSLR content? Of course, it’s choosing which camera to buy! Researching, comparing and deciding are joys for some, but the complexity can paralyze others. You have to choose not only wisely, but also decisively. Don’t let rumors about the next game-changing camera haunt you; there’s always talk of something better down the road.

So, what is the best all-around HDSLR right now? According to consensus as of March, 2011, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II is King. But what if you don’t have $2500 to invest in your core equipment (not counting lenses, accessories, aftermarket add-ons and computer upgrades)? If your budget dictates the best HDSLR camera body under four figures, the decision sits with the Canon EOS 60D ($999 MSRP) or the Panasonic DMC-GH2 ($899 MSRP).

Both are excellent cameras, but neither is universally superior. You must decide which system better fits your wants and needs. Yes, I said, “system.” The camera body is a foundation, but consider also the variety, availability, compatibility and affordability of many other parts (lenses, accessories, aftermarket, etc.).

There’s too much information about that to compile here, so I’ll just offer a guideline. With which of the following do you identify more: Photographer/Mac, or Videographer/PC?* If the former, you might want to lean toward the 60D. I say “lean,” because it’s a generalization. You need to examine your own circumstances in detail. The latter seemed more appropriate for me, so I bought the GH2.

I got into HDSLR to shoot cinematic HD video, and the GH2 seems better for video. I especially like the GH2’s video autofocus, low video noise (aliasing, moiré, rolling shutter), good internal audio, and compatibility with many lens brands. Also, in my opinion, combining the GH2 with the all-around capabilities of the video-optimized Panasonic 14-140 lens creates the best available starter package for an aspiring HDSLR filmmaker.

You can view detailed discussion of both cameras in planet5d's Canon EOS 60D and Panasonic HDSLR forums. Please also look for my upcoming GH2 review here on planet5D. It’ll be up in about a week.

*PC/Mac pertains to going with common standard, or not. I'll talk more about computers in a later post.

Cover photo credit: Image: graur codrin / FreeDigitalPhotos.net