Nikon D3100 with 1080p

The new Nikon is ALL AUTO in video mode, no manual controls except for aperture. ISO and shutterspeed are automatically selected when you go into video mode and cannot be changed manually.

So, the new D3100 isn't even good enough for indie filmmakers now. Just hockey moms.

Hmm, I had heard that on Twitter from another videographer. Do you have a link to that info?

http://documentarytech.com/?p=5999

http://www.eoshd.com/content/313-Nikon-D3100-with-1080-24p-to-lack-manual-controls

"After the disappointment of Sony’s new DSLRs, the A55 and A580, this is not really what we need. According to HDSLR shooter Nino Leitner, Nikon’s German press office have said that the D3100 will not have the option for manual controls in video mode.

The general stance of Japanese DSLR manufacturers seems to be that customer research has told them their cameras need to be easy to use. At least the entry to mid-range consumer DSLRs."

Seems Nikon needs to just stick with still cameras and stay away from video.

A friend of mine works at a special effects house and he just got a copy of a budget for a new film. The budget includes a quarter of a million dollars for a dozen each of 5DMK2 and 7D cameras, various accessories and Canon L glass. The line items for the stuff are categorized under "disposable equipment".

When you have a good camera that has manual controls needed for film, you get a million dollars in disposable income from a single picture... :)