Do you fancy yourself as a bit of a filmmaker? There are many movies that have been big hits in the theatre, that were made on shoestring budgets by filmmakers that hadn’t been to film school. Just think of Clerks, Paranormal Activity and The Blair Witch Project as some great examples of that. It’s certainly not just a domain for experienced movie-making experts. There are entry opportunities for anyone with a good idea and a camera.
When you are just starting out in filmmaking, the choices of cameras can be overwhelming. Do you go with a DSLR? Or maybe a mirrorless camera? What about a cinema camera? In this blog post, we will provide some useful budget-friendly ideas for first-time filmmakers. We will also explore 4 alternative choices of cameras to use. These cameras come at different price points and offer varying levels of features. So no matter what your budget is or what your needs are, there is sure to be a camera on this list that is perfect for you!
Useful ideas to consider for first-time filmmakers
Hire quality equipment if you have an urgent event to film
This is a great option if you only need a camera for a one-time event or if you are on a tight budget. You can find many reputable companies that offer camera rentals online. As stated by the professionals at STLSevents they will help you choose the right camera for your needs and can even provide you with a list of recommended lenses. They will also deliver the equipment to your location and pick it up when you are finished. This way, you will not have to worry about lugging around heavy equipment or trying to figure out how to use it!
Find Cameras that offer great value for money
If you are looking for a camera that offers great value for money, then take a look at the Panasonic Lumix GH series. These cameras offer excellent image quality and come with a variety of features that will be perfect for first-time filmmakers. They are also very affordable, making them a great option if you are on a tight budget. Another great thing about these cameras is that they are very easy to use, so you will not have any trouble getting started with them.
Buy a used camera
This is a great way to get a high-quality camera without spending a lot of money. Just be sure to do your research before buying any used equipment. You want to make sure that the seller is reputable and that the camera is in good working condition.
4 alternative choices of cameras to use for first-time filmmakers
1. The Canon EOS Rebel T100 / EOS 4000D
If you are on a tight budget, the Canon EOS Rebel T100 / EOS 4000D is a great choice. This entry-level DSLR offers excellent image quality and is very easy to use. It has a vari-angle LCD screen, which makes it perfect for vlogging or taking selfie videos. And with its built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, sharing your photos and videos with your friends and family is a breeze!
Price: $499 USD
Sensor size: APS-C (22.30 x 14.90 mm)
Video resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080) up to 30 fps
2. The Panasonic Lumix G85 / G80
The Panasonic Lumix G85 / G80 is a great choice for those who want to get into vlogging or filmmaking on a budget. This camera offers excellent image stabilization, making it perfect for shooting video. It also has a vari-angle LCD screen and built-in Wi-Fi connectivity.
Price: $597 USD
Sensor size: Micro Four Thirds (17.30 x 13 mm)
Video resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080) up to 60 fps
3. Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera
If you are looking for a more affordable cinema camera, the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera is a great option. It records in full HD and offers 60 fps slow-motion recording. It also has a Micro Four Thirds sensor, which gives you a shallower depth of field and the ability to use a wider range of lenses.
Price: $995 USD
Sensor size: Micro Four Thirds (17.30 x 13 mm)
Video resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080) up to 60 fps
4. Canon EOS R
The Canon EOS R is Canon’s first full-frame mirrorless camera. It offers excellent image quality and autofocus performance. It is also compatible with all of Canon’s EF and EF-S lenses, making it a great choice for those who already have a collection of Canon glass.
Price: $2299 USD
Sensor size: Full-frame (36 x 24 mm)
Video resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080) up to 60 fps
No matter which camera you choose, be sure to practice using it before your big shoot. This way, you will know how to use all of its features, and you will be able to focus on creating great content! Hopefully, this gives you a better idea of some of the alternative choices of cameras to use for first-time filmmakers!
Happy shooting!