Versatile Nikon for video use

[thompsonkte]

Hello!
I'm looking into buying a Nikon mainly for video use. I'd like advice on which nikon model best suits my needs as well as what lenses I should think about. I film a range of events on my college campus, from football games to plays to crew meets. Also I'd like to do some portrait photography. I'm thinking about getting two-three lenses, one of them being a portrait lens. My main concern is versatility. I want to be able to shoot up close and far away, in low light and outside when it is sunny. And of course being in college I'd like to keep it as inexpensive as possible. ahahhah I want everything. Any suggestions and compromises?

[Jonbar18]

If you're on a budget, I'd suggest the D5100. HD video 1080), versatile screen might come in handy using live view, and has autofocus (needs AF-S lens) in video, though most say it s slow and loud.
In terms of lenses, you could get the 5100 with the 2 lens kit (18-55 + 55-200) which should cover a lot of range, and a fast prime for portraits. 50 1.8 is always praised, and can be had for about $100 if you're willing to give up autofocus. About $200 for the 35 1.8 or 50 1.8 (both great lenses) in AF-S

[jdepould]

D7000 is the best Nikon for video at the moment, but it's all useless without good glass.

[TheMoons678]

Don't forget a nice tripod, and possibly an external mic for the d7000.

I would FOR SURE borrow a friends Nikon before buying one for the video. PS canons video is supposed to be superior, right?