Video performance has become more and more important in D-SLRs. For years the big-sensor, interchangeable lens cameras were unable to record moving images, and in the five years since the introduction of the game-changing Nikon D90, quality has improved to the point where many independent filmmakers are opting to use what were traditionally still cameras in their productions. But it's not all about indie movie-making. If you just want to record some video of family memories, an SLR is often at hand.

The needs of a director of photography and a soccer mom are very different, and while there's some overlap, there are models that are better suited for casual use. Sony SLRs use fixed-mirrors and electronic viewfinders, so autofocus is just as fast when recording videos as it is when shooting stills. This has been something that competing brands haven't been able to match to this point, though the upcoming Canon EOS 70D looks like it could change that. That model puts phase detect autofocus on the sensor, which promises smooth, camcorder-like autofocus when rolling footage, while retaining an optical viewfinder for shooting stills.

For the home user, we recommend looking at Sony's offerings first. The Alpha 65 and Alpha 77 both take the work out of recording quality video. They capture footage in the AVCHD format at 1080p quality, and the autofocus is smooth and quick. If you'd prefer to go with an optical viewfinder, and don't want to wait on the 70D, the Canon EOS Rebel T5i is another good choice. When paired with an STM lens, video focus is smooth and silent. However, there is still a quick rack in and out of focus before it locks onto a subject, which you'll get with any contrast detection system.

If you're looking to use a D-SLR for more serious video work, autofocus isn't as major a concern—manual focus is a must for proper focus adjustments. But if you're a run-and-gun documentarian and are considering a D-SLR, the full-frame Sony Alpha 99 is worth a look. In addition to phase detect focus, it supports balanced audio input via an XLR add-on accessory. Another top-end full-frame camera, the Nikon D4, lets you output uncompressed footage over its HDMI output port, so you can use it with a field recorder like the Blackmagic HyperDeck Shuttle 2 ($345).

And, if you're not averse to hacking your firmware, there's the world of Magic Lantern. Compatible with a number of Canon cameras, including the full-frame EOS 5D Mark III and the APS-C EOS 7D, it adds features like focus peaking, zebras, live audio monitoring, and Raw video capture to your camera. Features and stability vary based on what model you're using, but the video-centric upgrade adds a lot of functionality to these cameras. Even without Magic Lantern, the 5D Mark III and 7D are favorites for video production due their native video features.

And don't discount using a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera for video. The Panasonic GH3 is an extremely versatile Micro Four Thirds body that has become quite popular in video production circles. Blackmagic also makes a Micro Four Thirds cinema camera. Home movie shooters will be happy with the autofocus performance that Sony NEX, Samsung NX, and Olympus PEN cameras provide; all of these were designed with focusing in live view in mind, and focus quickly enough to keep your home movies sharp and crisp.

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