Best Camera For Filmmaking On A Budget

OVERVIEW

Without a doubt, there is an intense competition in the camera industry today. Over the past few years, there have been many discussions about, ‘which camera fits in the best for filmmaking?’ As we all know, cameras are an expensive business.

With a lot of high-end advancements replacing the older models every other day, the decision to get the right camera is not an easy choice to make. While choosing the best camera for filmmaking on a budget you need to keep a few things on your mind.

Best Camera for Filmmaking

Primary thing one need to look when you buy a camera for filmmaking on a budget:

  • Video Quality: The better the quality the lesser the work in post. 
  • Ease of Use:  For those who prefer long shooting days.
  • Range of lens: From wide captures to close-up portraits, and everything in between, you will need a range of lens. 

With a little bit of research, you can save some bucks while you get your hands on your favorite camera.

However, if you are a professional photographer/ cameraman and ready to spend, then you should try the 4K UHD DSLR camera. DSLR camera is worth a buy but only if they have a profitable photography business. While for people that just enjoy photography as a hobby it is not worth it at all.

10 BEST CAMERA FOR FILMMAKING ON A BUDGET

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DETAILS


Best camera for filmmaking on a budget
  • Impressive Low-Light Performance.
  • 4K Video Captures Full HD..
  • Full 60X Long Zooming range Far and Wide.
  • 4K Photo Action Records and Saves HQ Images.
best camera for filmmaking on a budget
  • 24mm Wide Angle.
  • Optical Image Stabilization (OIS).
  • 3-in LCD Screen.
  • 42x optical zoom and a 24mm wide angle lens.
Best camera for filmmaking on a budget
  • 24.2 Megapixel CMOS Sensor.
  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Phase detection.
  • Built in Wi Fi, NFC and Bluetooth Technology.
  • Full HD 60p & External Microphone Input.
best camera for filmmaking on a budget
  • 4K Video & Photo Capture.
  • 25-600mm Zoom with Full-Range F2.8 Aperture.
  • Splashproof / Dustproof Rugged Design.
  • 5-axis Correction / Tilt Correction.
best camera for filmmaking on a budget
  • WiFi & NFC.
  • 45-point AF.
  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF.
  • Focus with Precision.
best camera for filmmaking on a budget
  • 40X Optical Zoom.
  • 3-Inch Screen Size.
  • 180° Panorama mode.
  • IOS (Optical Image Stabilization).
Best camera for filmmaking on a budget
  • Built in WiFi & nfc.
  • 4K Time-lapse Video.
  • Outstanding Image Quality.
  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Phase detection.
best camera for filmmaking on a budget
  • Shutter Shock Reduction.
  • Optional Power Grip.
  • Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens.
  • Class Leading Dual Image Stabilization.
best camera for filmmaking on a budget
  • Tilting Touchscreen LCD Monitor.
  • Faster And More Accurate AF Performance.
  • RAW Developing Software.
  • Enhanced Grip And Handling.
Best camera for filmmaking on a budget
  • Fingertip Shooting Controls.
  • Lightweight Carbon Fiber Polycarbonate Composite.
  • 4K DKI video recording at 60 fps.
  • 5" touchscreen LCD.

BEST CAMERA FOR FILMMAKING ON A BUDGET REVIEW

1. PANASONIC LUMIX FZ80 - BEST 4K DIGITAL CAMERA FOR FILMMAKING

best camera for filmmaking on a budget

When back in 2013 Panasonic launched the FZ70 it was the all in one super zoom camera that offered the unprecedented 60X optical zoom. Since then many cameras with super zoom came, but Panasonic did not have any reply but the introduction of PANASONIC FZ80 has changed everything.

It comes with the same 60X zoom lens but with the new higher resolution image sensor, new processor and exciting new features making it an optimal choice for filmmaking.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • 18.1-megapixel 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor.
  • 3-inch touch screen LCD display.
  • 10 frames per second continuous shooting.
  • RAW format support.
  • 4K UHD video recording.
  • 4K Photo modes.
  • Built-in Wi-Fi.

Pros

  • 10 frames per second shooting.
  • 4K video modes.
  • 60X wide-angle zoom lens. 

Cons

  • Image quality is not that great.
  • Optical quality decreases when offered a lot of reach.


2. KODAK PIXPRO ASTRO ZOOM AZ421 - BEST CAMERA UNDER 200

best camera for filmmaking on a budget

Performance and passion go hand in hand with the Kodak PIXPRO AZ421 digital camera from the Astro zoom collection. It comes with a 42X ultra long zoom lens with optical image stabilization that delivers crisp, auto scene, object tracking, post-editing features with a user-friendly setting that makes photography fun, easy and hassle-free. So this is best suited for filmmaking.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • 16.15-megapixel resolution with high-quality still images and video recordings.
  • Featuring Panorama, 720p HD Movie Recording, Face Detection Technology and Optical Image Stabilization.
  • Kodak 4.3-180.6mm zoom lens with 42x optical zoom.
  • Equivalent to a 24-1008mm lens on an analog camera with TTL Autofocus, Glass Lens.
  • 3.0" TFT LCD screen with image editing features.
  • Featuring Brightness Adjustment, easy-to-read menu system.
  • Built-in flash with Red-Eye Reduction, Auto, Flash Fill Flash, and Slow Synchro. 

Pros

  • The 42x optical zoom. 
  • It can detect humans, cats, and dogs faces.
  • This camera can also detect blink/smile.

Cons

  • Image stabilization decreases at 42x.




3. CANON EOS REBEL SL2 - BEST BEGINNER CAMERA

best camera for filmmaking on a budget

The EOS Rebel SL2 also known as EOS 200D is a second-generation ultra-compact digital SLR by CANON. Canon’s EOS Rebel SL2 package contains the entire latest tech like Dual Pixel AF, a DIGIC 7 processor, Wi-Fi with NFC, Bluetooth, and a new user interface for beginners. 

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • External mic input.
  • Wi-Fi with NFC and Bluetooth.
  • Available 'Feature Assistant' user interface.
  • 3" fully articulating touch screen LCD.
  • 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor.

Pros

  • Accessible for beginners.
  • The most compact DSLR on the market.
  • Dual Pixel AF system is remarkable.
  • External mic input.

Cons

  • In-camera raw conversion is not present.
  • USB needed.




4. PANASONIC LUMIX FZ300 - BEST CAMERA UNDER 500

best camera for filmmaking on a budget

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300 is a super zoom camera that can be an attractive option for photographers who want the versatility of a very long zooming range along with the ergonomics of an SLR but don’t want to carry an interchangeable lens camera and a few lenses.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Splash and dustproof sealing which makes the camera suitable for outdoor photographers.
  • Built-in Wi-Fi.
  • Inner focusing with USM.
  • In-camera raw file processing available.
  • Ultra HD and HD movie recording with high-speed video recording. 

Pros

  • 24x zoom lens with f/2.8 aperture.
  • Exceptional EVF.
  • Raw image capture.
  • Strong high ISO
  • Touch screen display with vari-angle.

Cons

  • Expensive.
  • The zooming range is not that ambitious.






5. CANON DIGITAL SLR CAMERA

best camera for filmmaking on a budget

The Canon Digital SLR Camera also is known as The Canon EOS 80D is an enthusiast-level DSLR. It offers a new 24MP APS-C CMOS sensor along with a dual pixel on-screen phase-detection autofocus system. Coming with a body sealed against dust and moisture, the 80D has a polycarbonate exterior and magnesium alloy chassis. To complement its microphone port the Canon EOS 80D comes with a headphone socket.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • 1080/60p video capture.
  • 7 fps continuous shooting with AF.
  • Weather-resistant body.
  • 7560-pixel RGB+IR Metering Sensor.
  • Wi-Fi + NFC.

Pros

  • Easy-to-use.
  • Wi-Fi + NFC.
  • Headphone and microphone port.
  • Excellent battery life.
  • Burst speed is 7 fps.

Cons

  • The dynamic range lags.
  • No clean HDMI or 4K video.






6. KODAK PIXPRO ASTRO ZOOM AZ401-BK - CHEAP DIGITAL CAMERA

kodak pixpro

Kodak PIXPRO Astro Zoom AZ401 is one of the most demanded cameras in the Astro-zoom cameras because of its excellent features at a reasonable price. The Pixpro AZ401 is a bridge camera, this means it is a straightforward point-and-shoot camera but is slightly behind DSLR. It is recommended and used by professionals. 

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • High megapixel clarity.
  • Widened lens angle.
  • Optical Image Stabilization.
  • LCD screen equipped.

Pros

  • Amazing features at cheap price.
  • Captures every single detail that sometimes naked eyes might miss out.
  • Unbelievable battery life.

Cons

  • The camera doesn’t have a tight grasp which makes taking pictures difficult.




7. CANON EOS 6D MARK II - BEST CANON CAMERA

canon eos 6d

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II is a best camera suited for filmmaking. With the latest full-frame DSLR aimed at advanced enthusiasts. It has a new 26MP sensor with Dual pixel technology for perfect autofocus that helps you during live view shooting and has a fully articulating touch screen, built-in Wi-Fi and GPS capability which would help you to capture pictures with ease.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • New 26MP CMOS full-frame sensor with Dual Pixel AF.
  • 1080/60p video capture with in-lens + digital stabilization.
  • 45-point all cross-type AF system.
  • Dual Pixel AF for both stills and video capture.
  • Wi-Fi w/NFC and Bluetooth.
  • Built-in GPS.

Pros

  • The Autofocus system updated.
  • GPS and Wi-Fi with NFC.
  • Video stabilization system.
  • Dual Pixel autofocus.
  • The touch screen fully articulated.

Cons

  • The burst shooting is very slow with autofocus in live view.
  • The videos at 1080/60p are not clear and lack details.




8. PANASONIC LUMIX G85 4K MIRRORLESS CAMERA

panasonic lumix g85

The Panasonic Lumix DMX-G85 is a mid-range mirrorless camera which can be an ideal choice for filmmaking. It comes with features like 4K video captures, 2nd-generation 5-axis image stabilization, and a 16MP. A magnesium alloy front plate makes it perfect for harsh weather. Not only this, but it also offers a new electromagnetic shutter to combat shutter lock with an upgraded electronic viewfinder.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • 16MP Four Thirds MOS sensor w/o optical low pass filter.
  • 5-axis image stabilization with Dual I.S. 2.
  • Splash/dustproof body.
  • Depth from Defocus AF.

Pros

  • 4K video quality.
  • The new shutter mechanism eliminates which plagued the G7.
  • Robust build quality.
  • While using viewfinder you can focus on a point

Cons

  • No headphone port





9. FUJIFILM X-T30 MIRRORLESS DIGITAL CAMERA

fujifilm

Are you looking for a brand new camera at an affordable range with amazing features? Then the Fujifilm X-T30 if for you. With superb external controls, great autofocus, powerful 4K video recording, and a great 26.1-megapixel sensor, Fujifilm X-T30 has a lot to offer. Despite all the extraordinary capabilities, this camera falls in the mid-range cameras category so you can opt for this camera for filmmaking since it is available on a budget.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • It has both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.
  • SD / SDHC / SDXC memory card.
  • 3-inch tilting touch screen LCD with 1.04m dots.
  • Has X-Processor Pro 4 Image processor.

Pros

  • Excels in video recording performance. 
  • Fast, high precision AF to ensure photo details.
  • Travel friendly light lens.
  • Depth expression with beautiful bokeh

Cons

  • Sacrificing light gathering power.
  • Unwanted barrel distortion.



10. BLACKMAGIC DESIGN POCKET CINEMA CAMERA 4K

BLACKMAGIC

If you are looking for a best camera for filmmaking on a budget then go for Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera. This is a 4K camera with fantastic features that can shoot beautiful DCI 4K RAW video and comes with an easy to use menu. It can help you record either CinemaDNG RAW or ProRes to SD without burning a hole in your pocket.

It comes with a dual native ISO for less noise at higher ISOs and can capture up to 120 frames per second. This camera comes under the best camera for filmmaking on a budget for its best features and affordable range and it does not compromise with its quality because of its affordability.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • It has LCD display type.
  • The Screen Size is 5″.
  • 1920 x 1080 screen resolution.
  • Battery Type is Canon LP-E6.

Pros

  • Sharp, huge screen.
  • Comprehensive connection.
  • remarkable 4K video capture.

Cons

  • Inconsistent battery life.
  • No articulating screen.


THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING A CAMERA FOR FILMMAKING

Here are a few things listed that should be very much on your checklist before you make a decision:

  • Easy to use: Is the camera you choose comfortable to hold? Are the controls easy to use? If it is a touch screen, does it work well?
  • Manual Control: Can you set exposure, white balance and sound levels manually, or are they all automatic? You might think these controls do not matter, but you may need them if you get serious about your film-making.
  • Megapixels: Megapixels represent the number of pixels in a video, which is equivalent to a million pixels. It might not be your focus when buying a film camera but it still counts as an essential feature.
  • Lens: How close is the camera’s focus? How far does the camera zoom in and out? If you are a beginner then prefer 24-70mm lens, the potential and the most used professional glass lens in your photographic arsenal.
  • Image Stabilization: The bigger sensors in HDSLRs, mirror-less cameras, and large sensor video cameras usually work better in low lighting. These help you get shallow focus effects. They also let you use smaller apertures without diffraction softening your image.
  • Budget: One of the most important things to keep in your mind while choosing a best camera for filmmaking on a budget is to know how much you want to spend on it. It is not necessary that you need to burn a hole in your pocket to get yourself the best camera that fulfills all your needs. There are a lot of inexpensive cameras offering great features. 

There is a lot more to look for while choosing the best camera than just capturing the moment. One thing that is both crucial as well as important is the balance between the features you need and ones you do not necessarily need. You should always aim towards the feature you actually need because one thing that these unnecessary features do is to increase the price of the camera. 

It is important to understand that the more features you want, the higher the price you will have to pay. So, make sure you learn the camera features and terminologies before you choose your camera for filmmaking. In this article, I have picked 10 best camera for filmmaking on a budget for you all to choose from.

CONCLUSION

Choosing a filmmaking camera that fits in both your expectations as well as the budget is not an easy job. Remember, filmmaking does not necessarily have to be expensive. A little homework is what you need to do before getting your hands on the best camera you need. Some research always helps in knowing your needs before you make a decision.

Once you have selected the in-budget filmmaking camera which you think suits you the best it is a good idea to get some real-world experience just to double-check your decision.

I hope that this article guides and helps you make the right decision in getting the best camera for filmmaking on a budget. You can share your views about the 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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