Panasonic HS700 and TM700 HD camcorders

A quick research in Pond5 shows that buyers prefer the Canon quality over the Panasonic GH1 performace. So Canon T2i surely will have a faster payback than the GH1 although the GH1 (US model) doesn't have the recording time limitation of 12min. I think that if you add a Zoom H4n to the T2i, you have a rig that has nothing to envy cameras in the $2,000 - $3,500 range.

I use the 5D MKII and just ordered the 7D as a backup body. The T2i has much of same quality especially in video side, close on photo side. For me it was worth the extra dollars for body, processor and added quality parts and sealing. T2i will serve well.

The T2i does a GREAT job! There is nothing like it in the price range and lenses can be found in several places that will work with it thanks to Canon keeping the same body style it has already established in the market.

*Pawn shops are a great place to get lots of gear for these cameras. 2 lenses ($300.00 worth) a bag and some filters, $53.00.

I got the TM700 to replace my Sony HDR-FX1 . The picture quality is a big step up and it does have full manual controls. I was going to get the T2i, but it still seems too awkward to work with quickly.

My new grandaughter was born 3 days ago. She is a premature baby, only 6 months and 1 week and has to remained in the hospital for 3 more months. I was not allowed to bring any kind of camcorder into the hospital. I borrowed a Panasonic GH1. Problem solved. This people doesn't know that todays DSRL film better than many camcorders.

A similar situation happened months ago. I went into a museum. They told me that camcorders were not allowed, so I entered with my consumer DSRL a Panasonic Z50. Took SD movies of everything.