7D...Am I making amistake?

I have been looking at the 7D as a replacement for my 450D, which I use for stills while traveling for a video production. Having a 2nd topside camera with both stills and video capability to couple with my wider lenses, telephotos, etc. certainly has peaked my interest in this camera.

But.......after reading everyone's replies to this post: http://wetpixel.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=33931, it looks like unless I have a good tripod for the 7D --AND-- use it only for interviews, long shots, no panning, etc., I'm better off sticking with my hv30/Raynox wide angle lens for field use. I've got no complaints with the 450D images but thought upgrading to the 7D would give me more usable (key word) options.

The 7d would only be used for above water shooting 30p. Having one camera to cover both stills and video would be great considering weight allowances, lugging 2 cameras around, etc. However, half of the shooting is hand held with some occasional panning. Any input from users of the camera in video mode above water would certainly be appreciated.

Why not instead of a tripod use one of the many shoulder mount solutions to make the handheld more steady, Red Rock do one, Spiderbrace to a cheap one. They are not ideal but make the cam heaps better ergonomically

Handheld HV30 is not going to be much steadier than handheld 7d. I say go for the 7d. Low light, shallow depth of field opens up a whole new world for shooting video. Plus you can instantly switch between photo and video. For panning w/o a tripod, try the camera strap technique.

Thanks to both for responding. Since quite a bit of the shooting is "run and gun" style on group activities, lugging around a big tripod isn't feasible. I'll try both that you recommended.

Get a brace and a viewfinder. Try Zacuto or Red Rock Micro. Both make good kits for ViDSLR. Or you can try that Korea brand Gini on ebay.

I had the chance to play with the Red Rock set ups today and WOW!! They are NICE. Ergonomic for sure, the version allowing follow focus is real nice...but the price tag was not!!! The version I think is best for topside use is the Captain Stubling ($975) I was shocked that the base hand held version (UltraPort) was over $400!

One of my employees has the Zacuto viewfinder. VERY nice piece of equipment! On my list for one of these days, sure makes shooting easier on land.

Yeah Red Rock have the cheaper gear but Zacuto has the better viewfinder design.

You should also check this korean brand:

http://magic-spider.com/02.html?no=45&cno=72

I haven't played with it yet but it is the cheapest in the market. Caveat Emptor.

There's also Vocas and DV Tec (which is one of the cheaper ones). Quite a few choices.