Best Cameras For Video, Vlogging, And Videography In 2022
As Internet speeds have increased at home and on mobile devices, it isn’t just photos we share. Every day millions of hours of video are being uploaded to social media channels, with many of us choosing to share parts of our lives or knowledge with the world. While smartphones will do the job, the best cameras for video provide a significant step up in terms of quality.
When you’re ready to move on from shooting on a smartphone, there is a seemingly endless number of cameras you can choose to shoot video content. Before we look at what cameras we think are best for vlogging or creating YouTube content, let’s look at some considerations when looking for a camera to shoot video.
How to choose the best cameras for video and filmmaking
Here are the key specs to think about when selecting your video camera.
Resolution
One of the first things to look for is resolution. Nearly every camera on the market should be shooting at 4K resolution. Still, it is something to look out for if you are shopping on a budget or looking at a used camera. 4K televisions and screens are commonplace, and we are starting to see cameras that will shoot in 8k or higher. If you are beginning to vlog or shoot for YouTube, there is currently no real need for you to be shooting in 8k; it is complete overkill.
Frame rate
Frame rate will define how many images the camera can record in a second. The more frames, the smoother the footage, but it also allows you to slow the footage down. Hollywood movies are typically shot at a frame rate of 24fps, whilst PAL TV is 25fps with the US NTSC format at 30fps. Higher frame rates are a multiplier of these, so you will commonly find 50fps and 60fps and 100 and 120fps.
By recording at 120fps and then creating a video that is shown at 30fps, you will have a 4x slow-motion effect. So, if you are interested in shooting slow-motion footage, the higher the frame rate, the greater the slow-motion effect. For an excellent slow-motion effect, look for at least 120fps.
Stabilisation
If you are shooting cooking or craft tutorials, you can fix the camera in position by using a tripod. However, suppose you are using the camera handheld because you are vlogging or filmmaking on a family holiday. Handheld footage that isn’t stabilised can look shaky and almost unwatchable.
Lens or sensor-based stabilisation will help keep the footage looking steady. Some cameras will also use digital stabilisation. Digital stabilisation crops into the frame and shifts the recorded area to smooth camera movements. A combination of all three types of stabilisation can keep handheld footage free of all but the most dramatic of movements.
For cameras that don’t have stabilisation, a motorised three-axis stabiliser, also known as a gimbal, is a great way to create smooth footage. Read More...