Best cameras for video

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If you're starting a video content channel, live streaming, or looking to create your first movie, the first step is to get a good camera to capture it all. The best

cameras

for video also take great photos at the same time.

Although your smartphone camera has many high-tech features, it probably can't compare to the amount of settings and options that a designated DSLR type camera has. These cameras are carefully built for exceptional photo and video quality that a phone simply can't match, and are your best bet for a professional-looking end product. The key to the right camera is to narrow down your specific needs and not spend more money on unnecessary extras that you probably won't use.

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What are the best cameras for video?

Here are all the things you should consider before buying a new camera to record video, from its resolution to its battery life.

Resolution:

It's best to go for something that can shoot at< /p>

less

4K video at 1080p. The standard resolution for online video is constantly evolving, but 4K UHD looks great no matter what, and will for some time to come. A camera with around 20MP resolution and a processor capable of handling 30-120fps should also be more than enough to get the job done depending on the project you are planning.

Ports:

Battery:

For filming in the field on extended shoots, battery life is crucial. With a reliable, long-lasting battery, you won't need to constantly monitor your camera's charge or have a session unexpectedly interrupted by a battery that ran out before you were done. It's always good to have a spare, even if it's an added expense, so if you're going outdoors or traveling, make sure your camera battery can keep up.

Features:

Every camera will contain useful extras, and when used correctly they can really improve the ease and outcome of whatever you shoot. Things like image stabilization are a big help in stabilizing your shot, while autofocus uses a multi-point system to detect faces and balance everything out in milliseconds. It's possible to stack multiple exposures into a single shot, capture a time lapse, or achieve that perfect slow-motion sequence, plus hundreds of other options that will keep you experimenting and learning for a lifetime.

Screen:

The small built-in screen will be a huge advantage, acting almost like your production assistant. Although almost every DSLR and digital camera has one these days, not all of them are created equally. A screen that has the ability to flip up, down, out and all around can be extremely beneficial when trying to capture photos from odd angles and allow the subject to see themselves in the frame while recording .

Zoom :

If you don't plan on using a separate zoom lens, make sure the camera has a good built-in zoom capability. Optics are the best, as they simply enlarge the image and little quality is lost. Digital zoom can get you even closer, but can produce some blur, although they've improved dramatically in recent years.

Wi-Fi/Bluetooth:

For fast, frequent uploads right from your camera to your content channel, built-in WiFi can eliminate the step of transferring everything to your computer first. This may seem like a novelty, but it speeds up the process considerably, especially if you frequently post several times a day or exchange files with friends. Bluetooth can also cut the cord(s) and allow you to wirelessly transfer files and connect to your other devices for additional capabilities.

Lighting:

In an indoor studio, the lighting can be set to a certain controlled consistency in all your videos, but getting out of things is when it can get unpredictable. This is where having a camera with intuitive auto-detection capabilities saves time and reduces the stress of finding the perfect conditions. Even at night, the right camera with low-light capabilities can still keep colors crisp and your subject perfectly balanced.

File format:

If you plan to heavily edit your photos and videos in an editing rig after shooting, consider a camera that can handle RAW. Although the file size is considerably larger than a JPEG, all data and details in your photo (including things like colors and shadows) are perfectly preserved and professional looking for further editing.

While they're designed to outperform phones in terms of professional photography and filming, there's no need to choose one or the other. Some modern cameras connect to smartphones and use both, allowing you to instantly get an entire extra screen, or control it remotely via the accompanying app.

All of these are solid workhorses, but if you'll be shooting in different locations, a lighter camera will be much easier to carry, and an included strap is also a must. Take a minute to figure out what you'll need, then dive into these four favorites for filming and shooting.

1. Canon EOS Rebel T8i EF-S 18-55mm

Canon's EOS Rebel has been a leader among DSLRs for several years and camera generations. The T8i features the familiar photography tools that made it great, plus new, additional high-quality video options.

The EOS interface is well-designed and quick to pick up with practice, especially if you're a smartphone camera graduate and know some basic photography ins and outs. The T8i's convenient Quick Control dial gives you access to instant adjustments to your exposure, without even needing to look away from your shot.

This lightweight three-pound camera can handle high-speed continuous shooting at up to 7fps, with little to no lag, even with fast-moving subjects. Its 24.1-megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor retains real-life detail and resolution, despite shooting in low light conditions, and the 45-point autofocus system (as well as face and eye detection) is incredibly fast and can be switched on or off at the touch of a button. If you're looking for an LCD that can flip to any angle, the T8i delivers, with the 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen too.

The camera was designed for use with the EOS Utility webcam. Software, records video in 4K and has 2160p video capture resolution. Plus, there's built-in Bluetooth and WiFi when you're ready to download or stream to another device. You can even choose to flip it vertically for filming, just like you would with a phone.

An external mic can be connected via the designated port, and as with all EOS Rebels it is fully compatible with any Canon EF or EFS Lens.

Amazon

Buy:

Canon EOS Rebel T8i EF-S 18-55mm

to p>

$899.00

2. Nikon D780 with AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm

The D780 is ready to shoot 24.5MP, 4k UHD, uncropped and 1080p video at 120 fps. It performs extraordinarily well in low light, retaining sharpness and detail even in dim environments with its ISOs up to 51,200. 10-bit N-Log preserves a smoother color palette across your shot, controlling contrast throughout an entire video.

It includes 10-bit HDMI output and 51-point auto-detect function. focusing integrates with 273-point phase detection for stills and video. Many editing options and effects can be done directly on screen, including stacking multiple exposures, and this can also save in RAW format for further editing later in your software of choice.

It also really shines when it comes to slow motion shots. Shutter speeds can be very slow, perfect for long exposures or creating a timelapse of stars and sky.

Amazon

To buy:

Nikon D780 w/ AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm

to

$2,796.99

3. Sony Alpha a6400 mirrorless camera

At less than 2 pounds, this mighty little Sony is packed with features. It's light enough to travel, allows for interchangeable lenses, and still packs plenty of settings needed to shoot photos and videos like a pro, especially in low-light conditions.

It is mirrorless with 3x optical zoom and a 24.2MP res optical sensor, with speeds of 120fps. The new 3-inch tilt-sensitive LCD screen (no more 4-way D-pad) responds quickly to touch, while autofocus recognizes a subject immediately, in just 0.02 seconds.

Real Time Tracking follows a moving subject around the frame effortlessly. There's also the particularly neat Auto ISO function, which takes three shots in close succession and combines them into a single image. The silent shutter is also a nice touch, as is the built-in Wi-Fi to share images instantly.

Amazon

To buy:

Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Camera

to

$998.00

4. Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K

It might not be as widespread as industry giants like Canon and Nikon, but the BlackMagic still has a lot to offer. It is ready to capture video up to 6K at 50 fps, with 21.2 MP, and can be used in low light thanks to its IPO 25600. The fixed screen is large and bright, at five inches, and in fact a good choice for brand new indie content creators as well as those who hate working with a small screen.

Bluetooth is integrated with this camera, and there is also an HDMI output. At less than 2 pounds, it's nicely lightweight compared to its competitors, so you can easily take it with you on vacation or stash it in your bag on a commute to shoot video on the go.

Amazon p>

Buy:

Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera…

to

$1995.00