With the ability to shoot video with many new DSLR cameras, the necessary changes in handling them has become evermore important. Professional photographer Bill Frakes, in conjunction with Manfrotto Distribution, shot a video using only a DSLR camera and a helmet-cam along with Manfrotto and Gitzo photography equipment. These were his conclusions:

The new cameras look and feel like traditional still cameras, but handle very differently, especially when shooting video. The weight distribution and focusing techniques involved require a tough, durable, and rock steady platform to shoot with.

When shooting video with the new DSLR cameras like the Nikon D90, I rely heavily on Manfrotto and Gitzo tripods to keep the camera steady and video smooth.

The Manfrotto 700RC2 and the 190XB are an excellent solution for working on the go. The 701HDV is an even more robust head that is still lightweight and very easy to use.

The Gitzo fluid damped 3-way head G2272M is great on the GT3320BS tripod. The G2180 and the G2380 fluid heads are terrific options as well.

I use a lot of long, heavy telephoto glass and it is absolutely critical that I have not only perfectly steady, optimally balanced equipment in order to produce crisp, fluid images, but it is equally important that the heads allow seamless fluid control so that I can move easily with the action.