Equipment for Stills and Videos

As a wedding photographer, with 6K video, and the ability to pull a frame from the video that is technically about 15MP, do I invest more in equipment for video or stills?

Answer by: Anirban Brahma, Wedding Photographer

While the term 6K photo may sound gimmicky, in actuality, it means 15MP to 18MP stills. The number of stills vary based on the frame rate of the video. So it is either 24, 30, or 60 frames that make a second long video. When you have something that’s much longer, the number multiplies, and when the ability to pull a frame is available, you have a lot of creative freedom. With 6K video, you will certainly get good, crisp photographs, which will be of a sufficient resolution to upload online, as well as creating prints for wedding albums.

Now, the second part to the question has two answers:
1. What is your forte? Photography or video? I am primarily a photographer, but I know how to capture videos too. But, I stick to what I know best. As for my cinematographer, he knows how to photograph, but he chooses to shoot videos.
2. If you look at the latest technology, any camera, whether a Sony, a Canon, or a Panasonic, have upgraded their devices to cater to photographers and videographers alike. Every large camera company today is targeting a diverse market. So, whatever you choose, you are getting the best of both worlds.
To give you an example… For the last six years, my team and I have been using Sony mirrorless cameras, for stills and videos. When any one of our videographers shoots a wedding, they can also provide us with stunning 15MP to 18MP images from the data, as and when required. Also, this comes handy when one of us was unable to be around a certain moment or if it was difficult to photograph. You have to choose a camera based on your needs.