Best Slow Motion Camera to Shoot HD Slo-Mo Videos in Movies

If you’re a photographer, then shooting slow-motion videos would be part and parcel of your profession. A lot of videographers are on the lookout for clean, beautiful, ad crisp slow-motion footage. Lenses are the integral part of all modern cameras. Most of the cameras here have an interchangeable lenses and many professionals prefer having it this way. Learning the basics on camera types and models as important as choosing the right set of lens to buy the best slow motion camera.

BEST SLOW MOTION CAMERA

Capturing slow-motion footage requires a sophisticated camera that can capture several frames per second on the select resolution. While selecting the best slow motion camera, it is essential to consider aspects like shutter speed, light and focus.

With several products available in the market, choosing a camera that meets all your requirements is a tedious job. To make things easier for you, I have compiled a list of 8 of best slow motion camera available in the market today. Lets take a look at them!

REVIEW OF BEST SLOW MOTION CAMERA

1. GOPRO HERO7 - BEST SLOW MOTION ACTION CAMERA

best slow motion camera

The GoPro Hero7 delivers freakishly smooth footage. It comes with HyperSmooth stabilization and predicts your movements and corrects for camera shake to deliver smooth footage.

It is rugged and waterproof without a housing up to 33ft (10m). It also offers hands-free control, as it can be controlled via voice command. It can also intelligently apply HDR, local tone mapping, or noise reduction to optimize your shots.

You can share your story with video streaming to Facebook Live. You can also save your streamed videos to the SD card in high-resolution. This camera allows you to capture stabilized time-lapse videos while you move about a scene.

It can shoot a stunning 4K60 video and 12 MP photos, which collectively makes it the best slow motion camera available in the market. With ultra-high frame rate 1080p 240 videos, you can slow things down by up to 8x.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Gimbal-like stabilization; it corrects for camera shake to deliver insanely smooth footage.
  • Capture super-stabilized time-lapse videos while you move about a scene.
  • Increase the speed up to 30x to turn more extended activities into shareable moments.
  • Live streaming in 720p: You can live stream on social media and get HyperSmooth stabilisation as you broadcast through the GoPro app and save the footage to your SD card.
  • Rugged design and waterproof without a housing up to 33 feet.
  • With Super Photo, HERO7 Black intelligently applies HDR, local tone mapping or noise reduction to optimize your shots.
  • You can now go hands-free with 16 voice commands.
  • 4K60 Video and 12MP Photos.
  • TimeWarp Video: TimeWarp 2.0 with Auto TimeWarp and Real-Time.
  • Digital lenses/FOV: SuperView, Wide, Linear, Narrow.
  • Item weight: 4.2 ounces.

Pros

  • Amazing 4K 60 fps video.
  • Good hyper stabilization.
  • Low light video.
  • Sleek video.
  • Waterproof without housing.
  • Super easy button.

Cons

  • Gets hot quickly and consumes too much power.
  • Functions are not self-explanatory.

2. PANASONIC LUMIX FZ1000 - BEST SLOW MOTION POINT AND SHOOT CAMERA

best slow motion camera

This holds the second spot of my list of best slow motion camera for the amazing features it offers. The Panasonic Lumix helps you capture true-to-life, ultra-high resolution images in a smooth motion. The realistic ambiance of the audio recording with the optional stereo/shotgun microphone can match any situation.

You can easily switch to manual operation in the Creative Video mode, and capture dramatic slow motion in full-HD 120 fps video. It also enables in-camera playback screen grabs of 8 MP equivalent hybrid photography photos from 4K video footage to capture shots often missed with ordinary still photos. The 16x optical zoom brings everything up close.

The newly incorporated 1-inch 20.1 MP High Sensitivity MOS Sensor improves the S/N ratio, helping you capture clear images with minimum noise even when shot at ISO12800 / Extended ISO25600. Abundant amounts of light help produce impressive defocus with shallow depth of field.

The Leica lens has an F2.8-4.0 brightness that minimizes blurring even in telephoto shots. It has an angle of view that extends from 25 mm wide-angle to 16x optical zoom. It comprises of 15 elements in 11 groups, including four ED lenses and five aspherical lenses with eight aspherical surfaces. 

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Big sensor quality: Large 1 inch 20.1MP MOS sensor for improved low light capture and large sensor background defocus effects.
  • 4K Video & Photo: 4K 30P video with hybrid photography 8MP video frame grabs as photos.
  • Leica DC lens: A bright and ultra-sharp Leica DC lens 25 400 mm (16x) F2.8 4.0 and macro photography down to 3cm.
  • Lens stabilizer: Hybrid O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) and 5 axis correction provides clear, one-handed video shooting.
  • Integrated smartphone Wi-Fi for remote imaging control via the Panasonic image app.
  • Item Dimensions: 5.39 x 5.16 x 3.90 inches.
  • Item Weight: 1.83 pounds.
  • Optical Sensor Resolution: 20.1 megapixels.
  • Optical Zoom: 16x.
  • Video Capture Resolution: 4K UHD 2160p.

Pros

  • The camera turns on in less than a second.
  • The interface is extremely easy to use.
  • Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to send pictures easily.

Cons

  • Too much internal noise.
  • Consumes excessive amount of power.

3. NIKON COOLPIX P1000 16.7 - BEST SLOW MOTION DIGITAL CAMERA

best slow motion camera

The COOLPIX P1000 is the most extreme zoom camera from Nikon. A 3000mm equivalent NIKKOR ED glass lens—the most powerful lens ever used on a COOLPIX camera opens countless opportunities for photographers.

While shooting with extreme zoom, even the tiny camera movements are amplified. The COOLPIX P1000 uses a Dual Detect Optical Vibration Reduction system to stabilize both horizontal and vertical movements.

It comes with an incredible lens and a high-quality image sensor to create amazing content in 4K UHD with stereo sound. Its manual mode allows you to adjust focus and exposure for greater control of your videos.

It includes an HDMI port for recording and playback to an external monitor, a microphone jack for optimal sound capture, and a hot-shoe for mounting even more filmmaking accessories.

Its smooth operating control ring provides next-level operation, enabling you to intuitively adjust focus in MF mode or exposure, white balance or ISO in AF mode right from the lens barrel without having to look away from the viewfinder.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • 3000 mm optical zoom.
  • 4K Ultra HD video with HDMI.
  • Rock steady dual detect image stabilization and great low light capability.
  • Vibration reduction.
  • Raw, time-lapse and super-lapse shooting plus creative modes.
  • Full manual control with easy manual shooting.
  • Top Continuous Shooting Speed at Full Resolution: (Up to) 7 Shots at 7 fps.
  • Focus range:
    [W]: Approximately 1 foot (30 cm) to infinity.
    [T]: Approx. 23 feet (7.0 meter) to infinity.
  • Macro close up mode:
    Wide-angle position: Approximately 0.4 inches (1 cm).
    Telephoto position: Approximately 23 feet (7.0 meter).
  • ISO Sensitivity ISO 100 1600, ISO 3200, 6400.
  • Shutter Speed: 1/4000 1 sec, 1/4000 30 sec.
  • VIEWFINDER: Electronic viewfinder, 1 centimeter (0.39 inches) approx. 2359k dot equivalent OLED with the diopter adjustment function (-3 to +3 m-1).
  • Item Dimensions: 5.76 x 7.14 x 4.68 inches.
  • Item Weight: 3.12 pounds.
  • Optical Sensor Resolution: 16.7 megapixels.
  • Optical Zoom: 125x.

Pros

  • Zooming feature is impressive.
  • Vibration reduction.
  • Good quality pictures.
  • Raw format.
  • Easy to carry.

Cons

  • The sensor is too small.
  • Autofocus does not work well.

4. PANASONIC LUMIX GH5 - BEST SLOW MOTION DSLR CAMERA

best slow motion camera

Joining the list for the second time, this Panasonic Lumix camera is a pro photo/4K video camera built on the next-generation mirrorless (ILC) interchangeable lens camera standard.

It is equipped with a high performance 20.3 MP Digital Live MOS sensor without a low-pass filter. It can help you capture super-sharp images with a high-dynamic range. You can record a smooth 4K 60p/50p (QFHD 4K: 3840 x 2160 / MOV or MP4) video with excellent motion compensation plus slow down footage inside your timeline without losing detail.

The internal 4:2:2 10-bit 4K video recording renders all the subtleties of graduated skies, sunsets, and more without the banding, so prone to 8-bit. The 6K Photo mode at 30fps captures perfect moments at 18 MP resolution. The 4K Photo mode at 60 fps can freeze even faster motion, something that is not possible in conventional DSLRs.

The GH5 nearly eliminates body and lens shake in both photos and 4K video recording. Its 5-axis Body I.S. corrects all lenses, including classic lenses not equipped with O.I.S.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • High zoom 24-600 mm (25x) F2.4-4.0.
  • ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* lens.
  • 20.1 MP 1-inch Exmor RS stacked back-illuminated CMOS sensor with DRAM.
  • 4K movie recording with direct pixel readout and no pixel binning.
  • Super slow-motion movie HFR (High frame rate) up to 960 fps (40x), Fast Intelligent AF achieves autofocus as quick as 0.09s.
  • Fast response up to 14fps and 1/32000 s.
  • Anti-Distortion Shutter.
  • Enhanced operability with independent focus, zoom and aperture rings.
  • Dust/moisture resistant magnesium-alloy body.
  • Bright XGA OLED TruFinder viewfinder and Sharp 3-inch multi-angle LCD.
  • Simple connectivity to smartphones via Wi-Fi and NFC to camera apps.
  • BIONZ X engine for better detail reproduction and noise reduction.
  • Item Dimensions: 8.39 x 6.46 x 6.34 inches.
  • Item Weight: 2.41 pounds.
  • Optical Sensor Resolution: 20.1 MP.
  • Optical Zoom: 25x.
  • Video Capture Resolution: FHD 1080p.

Pros

  • Extraordinary stacked BSI 1-inch sensor.
  • Customizable menu and operating system.
  • The remarkable quality of the lens.
  • Exceptional video quality.
  • Decent autofocus.
  • Excellent EVF.

Cons

  • Autofocus in low light is not proper.
  • Lack of touchscreen.
  • Auto lens retraction poses a problem.

5. SONY CYBER-SHOT RX10 IV (DSC-RX10M4)

best slow motion camera

Looking for a flexible and best slow motion camera at an affordable range? Then you can opt for the Sony Cyber-shot, which features the world’s quickest AF acquisition time of 0.03 s and up to 24 fps continuous shooting with full AF/AE tracking.

It also comes with a 315-point phase-detection AF system as well as an exceptionally versatile 24-600mm F2.4-F4 ZEISS Vario Sonnar T lens.

It comes with a 1-inch Exmor RS stacked back-illuminated CMOS sensor with DRAM and a fast Hybrid AF system that combines all the advantages of 315 phase-detection AF points and contrast-detection AF. The 24-600 mm ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* lens features a large maximum aperture of F2.4-F4.0.

So, it can achieve outstanding image quality throughout the ultra-telephoto zoom range. The eight ED (extra-low dispersion) glass elements including two ED aspherical and one Super ED lenses compensate for the chromatic aberration. At the same time, the ZEISS T* Coating helps reduce flare and ghosting.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • The world’s fastest AF acquisition speed of 0.03 seconds.
  • Optical image stabilization technology developed by Sony.
  • 315 phase-detection Auto-focus.
  • Light Metering Mode.
  • ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* 24-600 mm f.2.4-F4 ultra-zoom Lens.
  • 24 fps continuous shooting up to 249 Frames with AF/AE tracking.
  • Filter Diameter:62 mm.
  • Diopter Adjustment: -4.0 to +3.0m-1.
  • Item Dimensions: 5.22 x 3.70 x 5.02 inches.
  • Item Weight: 2.32 pounds.
  • Optical Sensor Resolution: 20 MP.
  • Optical Zoom: 25x.
  • Video Capture Resolution: 4K UHD 2160p.

Pros

  • The lens is sharp at full zoom.
  • High-speed and advanced world-class autofocus.
  • Extreme versatility in the range.
  • 25 fps capability.
  • The built-in flash is good.
  • Feels rugged; good quality build.

Cons

  • Disruptive autofocus.
  • Discernible vignetting.

6. PANASONIC LUMIX DMC-FZ1000 

best slow motion camera

Panasonic Lumix is one of the best slow motion camera in the list with unique features. This camera will help you capture superb images with the help of its large 1-inch sensor. It is 16x optical zoom helps bring everything closer.

This newly developed lens features 5 aspherical glass lenses. This combines with the large MOS sensor to give your photos a shallow depth of field with a superior defocus effect that features invisible edge lines. It provides a realistic ambiance of audio recording with an optional stereo/shotgun microphone.

It can adjust sound gathering characteristics to match the shooting situation. You can also switch to manual operation in Creative Video mode and dramatic slow motion in full-HD 100 fps video.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Large 1-inch 20.1MP MOS sensor for amazing defocus control.
  • Bright Leica DC Lens 25-400mm F2.8-4.0.
  • Integrated smartphone Wi-Fi for remote imaging control; Super-fast LUMIX DFD focusing technology.
  • 4K QFHD 30p video with hybrid 8MP still image post-capture.
  • Item Dimensions are 2.00 x 2.00 x 2.00 inches.
  • Item Weight: 6.00 pounds.
  • Optical Sensor Resolution: 20.1 megapixels.
  • Optical Zoom: 5x.

Pros

  • A fast and responsive focus.
  • Long zoom.
  • Low-light performance is amazing.
  • No need to carry extra lenses.
  • Good face-detection based focus.
  • Extraordinarily fast bust-mode.

Cons

  • Zoom is slow.
  • Ring on the lens is slow.
  • Badly-organized super-long menu system.

7. SONY DSC-RX10 III CYBER-SHOT DIGITAL STILL CAMERA

best slow motion camera

The Sony RX10 III offers dramatic stills and movies from wide-angle to ultra-telephoto. The 24-600 mm (25x) ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* lens provides a bright F2.4-4 maximum aperture that works with the large 1-inch 20.1 MP image sensor.

The large 1-inch (1.0-type) stacked 20.1 MP CMOS image sensor with DRAM chip performs at a shockingly fast shutter speed of up to 1/32000. It captures images at up to 14 fps (frames per second), ultra-sharp 4k movie and super slow-motion HFR (High Frame Rate) recording of up to 960fps.

An advanced aspherical (AA) lens enhances the reproduction of detail and keeps the large-aperture lens as compact as possible.

Combined with dust- and moisture-resistant design, the use of highly rigid magnesium alloy material for the top cover, front cover, and the main chassis makes the body robust yet light. It ensures a heavy-duty performance in difficult situations which makes it the best slow motion camera .

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • High zoom 24-600mm (25x) F2.4-4.0 ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* lens.
  • 20.1 MP 1-inch Exmor RS stacked back-illuminated CMOS sensor w/ DRAM.
  • 4K movie recording w/ direct pixel readout and no pixel binning.
  • Super slow-motion movie HFR (High frame rate) up to 960 fps (40x).
  • Fast Intelligent AF achieves autofocus as quick as 0.09-sec.
  • Fast response up to 14fps and 1/32000 sec. Anti-Distortion Shutter.
  • Enhanced operability w/ independent focus, zoom and aperture rings.
  • Dust/moisture resistant magnesium-alloy body .
  • Bright XGA OLED Tru-Finder viewfinder.
  • Sharp 3-inch multi-angle LCD.
  • Simple connectivity to smartphones via Wi-Fi and NFC w/ camera apps.
  • BIONZ X engine for better detail reproduction and noise reduction.
  • Item Dimensions: 8.39 x 6.46 x 6.34 inches.
  • Item Weight: 2.41 pounds.
  • Optical Sensor Resolution: 20.1 MP.
  • Optical Zoom: 25x.
  • Video Capture Resolution: FHD 1080p.

Pros

  • Stacked BSI 1-inch sensor.
  • Customizable menu and operating system.
  • Overall excellent photo quality.
  • Exceptional video quality and decent autofocus.
  • Excellent EVF.
  • Highly effective IS worth.
  • Video image sensor.

Cons

  • Autofocus in low-light is not very impressive.
  • The display is not a touchscreen.
  • Auto lens retraction poses a problem.

8. PANASONIC GH5S LUMIX 4K MIRRORLESS

best slow motion camera

Don't underestimate the last one on the list of best slow motion camera. The Panasonic Lumix GH5S 4K Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera Body allows you to capture stunning, high-resolution videos and it has fantastic features to offer you.

It is compatible with a wide range of Lumix and Leica lenses and captures 20.3 MP still images and 4K resolution video at 30 or 60 frames per second. It comes with a five-axis stabilization mechanism that delivers remarkably smooth video footage, even when you are shooting while moving.

It is equipped with a powerful Digital Live MOS sensor, that is capable of delivering high quality 20.3 MP images. It is designed without a low-pass filter to enhance photo quality. Every image that you capture will have vibrant colors and incredible detail.

It also comes with internal 4:2:2 10-bit 4K video recording and a full-size HDMI port that can be connected to an external monitor or recorder. The new 6K Photo mode at 30fps allows you to capture the perfect moments at a stunning 18 MP high-resolution. 

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Large 1-inch 20.1MP MOS sensor for amazing defocus control.
  • Bright Leica DC Lens 25-400mm F2.8-4.0.
  • Integrated smartphone Wi-Fi for remote imaging control; Super-fast LUMIX DFD focusing technology.
  • 4K QFHD 30p video with hybrid 8MP still image post-capture.
  • Product dimensions: 2 x 2 x 2 inches.
  • Item weight: 6 pounds.
  • Venus Engine Processor produces extraordinary color detail and natural texture expression.

Pros

  • Leica lens is very sharp.
  • Decent zoom range.
  • Includes Neewer batteries that work well.
  • 64 GB SD card records full GH5 4K and HDR.

Cons

  • Not for beginners.
  • The carrying case is a little flimsy.

CONCLUSION

These were eight of the best slow motion camera available in the market. As stated earlier, all of these cameras meet the criteria of the number of frames per second, shutter speed, light and focus. I have also highlighted some other vital features; like a reasonable price, connectivity, lens quality and manual control.

I hope you have found what you were looking for. Happy recording! Don't forget to share your views about this article in the comment section 🙂

Nicolas Gilli
 

Hi, I'm Nicholas Gilli, I'm a blogger who is very much interested in blogging about film-making gadgets. I have experience as a cinematographer in the film industry for more than 15 years. My blogs would comprise of articles about film making gadgets and guides on how to use them. Even if you are a beginner you will learn a lot about cinematography here. Happy reading.

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