2 answers
Orion
Student
Rock Hill, South Carolina
10
Questions
Asked
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As I'm slowly learning more about film, what is the best camera I should save up for?
As I stated in my last question I currently record everything on an Iphone Xr, after reading all the responses I decided that I'm gonna save up my money and buy a good camera the only question is what camera should I get, I've heard really good things about Cannon, But I'm still not sure which one would be the best for me.
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2 answers
Kathy Chan
Videographer/Photographer
23
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Kathy’s Answer
Hey Orion,
This is a great question, especially since you are just starting out in the industry! Your choice of camera is really dependent on your purpose, budget-range, and utility/features.
My starting camera, when entering film school was a Nikon D3300, it was & still is commonly suggested as the best affordable, entry-level photography camera (that also can record some video).
Cameras have different utility and features, and in many cases, your entry-level camera may do photo OR video better and not both. What is it that you want to do with your camera, photography or film? What is your price range, how much are you considering to save up for one? Are you interested in a smaller, mirrorless build or a bulkier DSLR?
Below are a few of my suggestions with their price points, including a general usage scale:
Nikon D3300/Canon T/rebel series (T 3i, Rebel S, etc.) - $300 - 600 body + lenses [beginner, great for entry-level photography]
Panasonic GH3/GH4 - $300 - $400 body + some lenses [beginner, great for entry-level video/photo]
Black Magic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K/6K - $1,200 - $2,400 body/lenses [beginner - intermediate, great for entry-, mid-tier videography/filmmaking]
Panasonic GH5 - $800 - $1,200 body + some lenses [intermediate - advanced, great for mid-, high-tier video, photo]
Sony A7 series - $500 - $2000 body [intermediate - advanced, great for entry-level to high-tier video, photo]
All of the cameras on this list are priced at their current retail value, and may go for even cheaper on stores like: Adorama, BHphotovideo, Facebook Marketplace and eBay (especially great for buying lenses). Don't be afraid to use equipment rental places, or go to places like BHphotovideo and try out their cameras in-store.
Your using the iPhone XR is already a great choice, on a smartphone perspective concerning Apple's attention to picture quality, resolution, and frame-rates. There are even some great films shot entirely on smartphones!
Long story short: I will highly recommend you start with something like the D3300 or the GH3/4 and work your way up! Within the film & photo industry, you will always have the chance to upgrade your equipment, eventually even allowing your camera gear to pay for itself!
This is a great question, especially since you are just starting out in the industry! Your choice of camera is really dependent on your purpose, budget-range, and utility/features.
My starting camera, when entering film school was a Nikon D3300, it was & still is commonly suggested as the best affordable, entry-level photography camera (that also can record some video).
Cameras have different utility and features, and in many cases, your entry-level camera may do photo OR video better and not both. What is it that you want to do with your camera, photography or film? What is your price range, how much are you considering to save up for one? Are you interested in a smaller, mirrorless build or a bulkier DSLR?
Below are a few of my suggestions with their price points, including a general usage scale:
Nikon D3300/Canon T/rebel series (T 3i, Rebel S, etc.) - $300 - 600 body + lenses [beginner, great for entry-level photography]
Panasonic GH3/GH4 - $300 - $400 body + some lenses [beginner, great for entry-level video/photo]
Black Magic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K/6K - $1,200 - $2,400 body/lenses [beginner - intermediate, great for entry-, mid-tier videography/filmmaking]
Panasonic GH5 - $800 - $1,200 body + some lenses [intermediate - advanced, great for mid-, high-tier video, photo]
Sony A7 series - $500 - $2000 body [intermediate - advanced, great for entry-level to high-tier video, photo]
All of the cameras on this list are priced at their current retail value, and may go for even cheaper on stores like: Adorama, BHphotovideo, Facebook Marketplace and eBay (especially great for buying lenses). Don't be afraid to use equipment rental places, or go to places like BHphotovideo and try out their cameras in-store.
Your using the iPhone XR is already a great choice, on a smartphone perspective concerning Apple's attention to picture quality, resolution, and frame-rates. There are even some great films shot entirely on smartphones!
Long story short: I will highly recommend you start with something like the D3300 or the GH3/4 and work your way up! Within the film & photo industry, you will always have the chance to upgrade your equipment, eventually even allowing your camera gear to pay for itself!
Kathy, thank you!
Orion
Annaleigh Niedzielski
Videographer, Producer, Assistant Director
65
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Annaleigh’s Answer
Hi Orion!
Kathy suggested some amazing cameras here, I would say to also do a lot of research about what specifically you are looking for! Some cameras, such as Sony, have really good stabilization and look great in low light! But if you are planning to shoot on tripod in studio, I love BlackMagic Pockets for their quality. Investing in a good base for your camera is a great way to start, and as you get better you can keep buying better and better lenses! Good luck with your endeavors in film!
Kathy suggested some amazing cameras here, I would say to also do a lot of research about what specifically you are looking for! Some cameras, such as Sony, have really good stabilization and look great in low light! But if you are planning to shoot on tripod in studio, I love BlackMagic Pockets for their quality. Investing in a good base for your camera is a great way to start, and as you get better you can keep buying better and better lenses! Good luck with your endeavors in film!