Getting into dslr video/photography, don't know where to start?

I have started to look at dslr's for a while now, but I'm still having trouble finding the right equipment. I will be covering paintball most of the time.

People recommend dslr's for paintball apparently because of the frame rate. I don't want a camcorder anyways.

First, I have read that I need a good frame rate, which points to Canon rather than Nikon. Those seem to be the two biggest names. I don't have a huge budget… Maybe $700-$800. The less I have to spend, the better. My friend said that I should look for a used 40d. I don't know if that's a good choice or not, so I'm still looking for some advice.

Secondly, the lens selection is important. My friend recommended a canon lens. I forget the size. I don't want to drop tons of money on one, but if I have to I suppose I can. The most important thing is that it is durable enough to last and get hit once in a while. I'll also have to get some uv filters to protect the glass.

As for a tripod, I think I will go budget on it. Seems like an accessory that doesn't need a lot of money put into it to work well.

Any info would be appreciated. I want to make my first purchases good ones.

I wouldn't get a used camera, thats just me. I don't know who's had it before and what might have happened to it. Sure, you'll save a little money, but its not worth the risk for me.

Take a look at the Canon T2i, its a great DSLR. $685 and it has Full HD recording, 60 fps, 50 fps, 25 fps, 24 fps, you name it. The great thing is its like a baby 7D. It has almost the identical sensor and you're going to get some great footage with it.

The lens your friend most likely recommended is the EF 50mm f/1.8 II.

I'm not sure who your friend is but I wouldn't rely on them too much. Some people think they know more about cameras than they actually do (I'm guilty of this too sometimes).

What you ask is tough. But I will put forth my best suggestions and let you decide:

- Canon gives more feaures for lesser price
- Nikon has better image quality
- Megapixels do not denote quality. They are only important is you want to blow up the photo (for posters)
- dSLRs are good and last a few years. Get a decent one.
- One of the golden rules in photography: You get what you pay for [your budget seems alright]

Camera suggestions:
- Canon Rebel T3i or T2i
- Nikon D5100 or D3100 [D5100 strongly recommended]
- Sony Alpha 580 [More features than Nikon or Canon for almost half the price] - HIGHEST frame rate and decent lens collection

Websites and forums for further research, reviews and comparisons:
- http://www.kenrockwell.com/...kwell.com/
- http://www.dpreview.com/...eview.com/
- http://snapsort.com/...psort.com/ [Not very accurate but good enough for an overview]
- http://www.digital-photography-school.com/

Lens recommendations (approx ranges):
- Ultra-wide angle for outdoor shooting: 12-24mm, 10-20mm, 14mm prime
- Normal use: 18-55mm, 18-105mm
- Telephoto: 55-200mm, 55-300mm, 70-300mm
[Just get one of each for a complete set OR just buy one which suits your needs the most]

Lenses can be recommended in a better was after you have decided on a camera.

For your budget Canon T3i with 18-105mm lens seems to be the best deal.
Personal opinion: But Nikon D5100 with 18-105mm lens or the 35mm prime lens (it is an AWESOME lens)

Sorry if I confused with too much info. Email me if you have questions.

DSLR are expensive and many times don't have a High Speed function. I recommend you see the CASIO HS like EX-F1, EX-ZR10, EX-ZR100, EX-FC100.
I like very much the EX-ZR100 characteristics. It's posible you can test some of this models.

First, I'm biased… I run a DSLR video blog - http://blog.planet5d.com

If you really plan to do video with your DSLR, go with the Canon Rebel T3i/600D or the GH2. The Nikon's just aren't in the same league with video for the most part.

For some additional tips on video with dslr, check the wiki http://wiki.planet5d.com - there's a tutorial section on the navigation on the left.

For $800 at Canon and Nikon, you can get like Canon T3i and Nikon D5100, both around 4fps. However, if you're willing to pay a bit less for a less unknown brand, which is still very old and great, you have Pentax K-r at 6fps with better AF!

Your friend recommended a Canon lens. Yes, if you're gonna get a Canon DSLR… There are over 60+ lenses for each brand so your statement doesn't help.

UV filters are cheap and great.

You might not want a tripod in paintball or any action, but a monopod, or nothing at all.

Here's a DSLR Buying Guide - http://www.the-dslr-photographer.com/2009/11/which-dslr-to-buy/

Here's a Lens Buying Guide - http://www.the-dslr-photographer.com/2009/11/buying-a-lens/

Just don't worry. You buy a DSLR camera with a lens and you're pretty much done - from there on, you learn and then see what you need (if you do).