Avatar (2009) broke many filmmaking records. But one of the most important is that it was the first movie to be 100% shot on digital cameras and win Best Cinematography at the Academy Awards.
That’s not to say that using a digital camera is always the best video camera for your project. There are so many other variables to consider when choosing a professional camera to help you realize your creative vision.
If you’ve been borrowing your uncle’s camcorder up until now and you’re looking to upgrade, you might not know where to start. Don’t worry! This guide will help you choose the best new video camera for your needs.
Decide Whether You Want to Rent or Buy
Most professional camera operators own at least one camera. This is so they can always be ready for last-minute cinematography jobs. They will also become experts at this type of camera and have all the right filmmaking tools and accessories.
But it won’t always be the best video camera for every project. That’s why camera rental from places like BrainBoxCameras.com is a super common practice. Plus, renting a camera might allow you to use a better camera for your project that you can afford to buy right now.
Consider Your Filmmaking Budget
This leads to the next consideration when finding the best video camera for your project: budget! Here are the standard types of cameras you might like to use:
- Consumer video camera
- Action cameras
- Pro-consumer video camera
- Super chip camera
- DSLR/mirrorless video camera
- Professional camcorder
- Cinema cameras
- 16mm cinema film camera
- 32mm cinema film camera
The lower budget cameras on this list will be the consumer, action, and consumer cameras. Professional camcorders and cinema cameras will be the most expensive. Cinema cameras that can shoot 4k and 8k footage will be even higher-end.
DSLR and mirrorless cameras can vary in price. It depends on what features they offer, so always read the product descriptions before investing in a video camera.
Think About Cinematography Style
The last thing to consider when choosing a camera is what type of project you are using it for. All types of cameras offer a signature style that lends themselves better to different projects.
For example, if you are shooting journalistic or news pieces, then choose a professional camcorder. If you are shooting videos for web content, then a DSLR (with some action camera b-roll) will be ideal for you. But if you’re shooting a movie that you hope to enter into film festivals, then invest in a cinema camera.
If you only shoot feature movies, then consider choosing a film camera. 16mm is fine for independent films. But if you’re playing in the Hollywood big leagues, then only 32mm film is going to cut it.
What Is the Best Video Camera for Your Creative Vision?
The best video camera for your filmmaking project will depend on your budget and your style. Lucky for you, there are plenty of camera options for you to choose from, no matter how much you have to spend.
You must choose the right filmmaking tools when you make a movie. Browse our tech articles to find out more about the latest gadgets and gear!
