Video in DSLRs

I wasn't planning to write on this topic, but I had a question about this from a friend so here goes!

What's the point of having video on the DSLRs that seem to be the new "must have" feature on current models? Apparently, it's for people like my friend Rachel, who's the mother of two young children that takes on the role of family historian and wants to have video, but doesn't want to lug around a big ole video camera. Coincidentally, I just finished reading a review on the new Nikon D5000, which is the current model of the D40, D40x, D60 progression in their product line. My thought on this could just as well apply to the Canon T1i which occupies the same spot in their product line.

Basically this is the lower end of the industry's "serious" cameras; that's DSLRs (Digital Single Lens Reflex) cameras. These cameras tend to be not much more expensive than the upper end of the "consumer", "Superzoom" digital camera that people buy (within $200 or so). This allows people who are the most likely to want video to have this ability within a relatively small lighweight camera. Most folks who are more serious about photography or videography tend to want highly specilized "single purpose" cameras for their work/hobby.

The D5000 is a great example of this type of equipment, it has the ability to take casual video that is better than something like the HD Flip for example and of course gives the users the ability to take high quality still images which is what is generally of great use most of the time. Without getting into the specific abilities of this particular model, you can look at the economics of the equipment at hand. If it is a given that the person is open purchasing a DSLR for their photographic needs, they are looking at $500-600 outlay for that piece of equipment. Then throw in something that is small and has the ability to do simple vid capture such as an HD Flip for example (at $200), then you have an outlay of $700-800 and carrying around as well as learning to use 2 devices. So for less than $100 more, this profile of consumer would have the ability to capture simple video as well as high quality still imagery and far greater flexibility.

Now, if you already have a DSLR (or other camera) that is perfectly adequate, then by no mean let me talk you into changing. Just understand that these types of devices have a few limitations and that there are alternatives.