In this article, we will walk you through the best camera for beginner filmmakers available in the market. We have picked out 11 products based on reviews and ratings. The article has been divided into 3 partitions so you can choose and browse based on your favorite brand, be it Canon, Nikon, or Sony. For each product, we have made sure to provide specifications, pros, and cons, why choose this and overall review so that you can make a comprehensive decision.
Have you started taking interest in filmmaking and don’t know how to go about it?
Are you an aspiring filmmaking student and are looking for the right camera?
Have you decided that you need to take a break from your field and try filmmaking instead?
Well, if the answer is yes to any of these questions then this is the article for you. We have picked out the best options in the market for beginner filmmakers, and you need not worry if you have a tight budget, we have included a variety. It doesn’t matter if you are on a limited budget or can spend extravagantly, just browse through and find the one for you.
Top Pick
Sony Alpha A7 III
- Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth
- Large Built-in Viewfinder
- Time-lapse recording feature
- Fully articulating screen
- 2 SD card slots
Budget Pick
Nikon D3500
- Great video quality
- Bluetooth available
- Compact and light body
- Good 11pt Autofocus
- Panorama shooting feature
Value to Money
Canon EOS R
- The Dual Pixel Autofocus
- Fully articulating touchscreen
- Good Battery life
- Great EVF and exposure
Browsing for a camera for filmmaking can be difficult with so many options available in the market, and a wrong choice can put you off filmmaking for good.
First, let’s look at what you need in your first filmmaking camera
- User-friendly, so a beginner could operate without much hassle
- Good quality video recording
- Good battery life for those long shooting hours and practice
- Hand-held compact and not too heavy
- Easily available and inexpensive accessories/lens
- Good performance in various lighting situation (as a beginner you might have the luxury of carrying external light sources everywhere)
While the list above is supposed to guide you on what to look out for, these are merely general suggestions. Every individual will have their level of experience, and know-how of filmmaking and for them, the best camera for beginner filmmakers will be different. Keep in mind what you want from your very first filmmaking camera before making a decision.
The article will provide you with specifications of each camera, along with the pros and the cons so you know the good and the bad and can compare it to other cameras, it will also include why has this camera been specifically chosen for beginner filmmakers, and the frequently asked questions about the product, with an overall review at the end to give you our final verdict about the product.
Choosing a perfect camera is equally important for a film just as the story, cast, and plot. This defines the hard work and dedication of the filming team and also promote the working of the team with integrity and thrill.
11 Best Cameras For Beginner Filmmakers
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | Mega Pixels | Video Resolution | Screen Size | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
Check On Amazon | ||
 |
|
|
|
Check On Amazon | ||
|
|
|
|
Check On Amazon | ||
|
|
|
|
Check On Amazon | ||
 |
|
|
|
Check On Amazon | ||
|
|
|
|
|
Check On Amazon | ||
 |
|
|
|
Check On Amazon | ||
 |
|
|
|
Check On Amazon | ||
 |
|
|
|
Check On Amazon | ||
 |
|
|
|
Check On Amazon | ||
 |
|
|
|
Check On Amazon |
1. Canon EOS Rebel SL3
Compatible Lenses With Canon EOS Rebel SL3
Main Features
- A 24.1 Megapixel CMOS APS-C sensor
- Processing Engine: DIGIC 8
- ISO range of 100 to 25600
- A 9-pt Autofocus system
- Optical Viewfinder
- 4K video recording at 24p
- 5-axis Digital Image stabilization feature
- 3” touchscreen Vari-angle LCD
- Wi-fi & Bluetooth
The SL3 is the first rebel camera that can shoot 4K videos whilst also being the smallest EOS DSLR. The 24.1 Megapixel CMOS APS-C along with a DIGIC 8 processor is an achievable dream for an aspiring filmmaker because of it being relatively affordable. The camera sports a 9pt AF system and has Wireless connectivity which makes it easier for you to transfer your files.
Why is this camera best for beginner filmmakers?
This camera might just be your best DSLR camera for beginner filmmakers because of its easy use, compact size, 4K quality, and 9point Autofocus. The camera belongs to the Rebel series which is known for keeping in mind those with limited budgets, so if you are a student starting, go for this.
Q. Does the SL3 have in-built image stabilization?
Although it doesn’t, the camera still has a 5-axis digital image stabilization.
Q. Is this a full-frame camera?
No, the SL3 is not a full-frame camera as it has an APS-C sensor.
Q. Does the camera have weather-sealing?
The camera does not have weather sealing and the outdoor rough use may be damaging to its body.
Q. Does the camera have Wi-Fi connectivity?
The camera does have Wi-Fi connectivity along with Bluetooth.
Pros
- Compact, lightweight and small
- Easy to use
- Good battery life
- mic support
- Great stills and recording quality
- Good performance in low-light
Cons
- Crop issue in 4K quality
- Autofocus below average performance
Conclusion
The Rebel SL3 is a great option for the one starting. this camera checks all the right boxes for us and it is part of one of the world’s most selling series, the Rebel EOS series. It is an upgrade from its previous SL2. It packs all these amazing features in a small body which is great if you filming.
2. Canon EOS Rebel T7i
Compatible Lenses With Canon EOS Rebel T7i
Main Features
- A 24.2 Megapixel CMOS APS-C sensor
- ISO range of 100 to 25600, can be expanded to 51200
- Wi-fi, NFC, and Bluetooth
- 3” touchscreen LCD
- 45pt Autofocus system
- Full HD 1080p at 30fps
The T7i a replacement of the T6i, with the 24.2MP, 45-point Dual Pixel Autofocus, and the ISO range expandable till 51200 is a great choice and a worthy upgrade. It also features a 3-inch touchscreen LCD. The camera manages to make life easier with a user-friendly interface and easy sharing with the in-built Wi-fi, NFC, and Bluetooth.
Why is this camera best for beginner filmmakers?
Because of its compact size, user-friendly interface, and compatibility with a huge range of low-cost accessories, it is the best camera for filmmaking available in the market. This camera also comes with a great sensor, shutter speed, and video and photo quality.
Q. Does the camera have environmental/weather sealing?
No, the T7i does not have the sealing which is the protective layer.
Q. Does the camera have an in-built GPS?
No, the camera does not have this feature.
Q. What is T7i’s Maximum shooting speed (fps)?
The maximum continuous shooting speed is 6.0 frames per sec of the T7i.
Q. Does the camera come with a touchscreen LCD?
Yes, the T7i has a 3″ touchscreen LCD.
Pros
- Light and compatible body
- Good quality stills and video recording
- Touchscreen Vari-angle LCD
- 6fps continuous shooting
- Dual Pixel Autofocus
- User-friendly interface
- Time-lapse recording
Cons
- Limited to 1080p, 4K not available
- No Image stabilization
- Small Viewfinder
Conclusion
Even without the 4K, the video is still pretty good at 1080p. This is a beginner level camera that lies in the affordable range and performs great in low-light situations. While some professionals might not opt for this, it is still very popular in the market, and its 1080 resolutions work great.
3. Canon EOS M50
Compatible Lenses With Canon EOS M50
Main Features
- 1 MP APS-C CMOS
- DIGIG 8 processing engine
- The dual pixel autofocus system
- Wi-Fi, NFC & Bluetooth
- Recording at Ultra HD 4K resolution at 24fps
- ISO range of 100 to 25600, can be expanded up to 51200
- 3” articulating LCD
The Canon M50 comes with a 24.1MP (million) APS-C CMOS, with a DIGIC 8 processor. The camera with its ability to record in 4k, with dual pixel Autofocus and inbuilt Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth, this camera might just be one of the best camera for filmmaking. The M50 has a 3 inch fully articulating LCD which makes it great for recording oneself and provides easier controls.
Why is this camera best for beginner filmmakers?
We have chosen this camera as one of the best mirrorless cameras for beginners as it is affordable and at the same time, it also allows for 4K video recording and a great autofocus system which are a great combination in a camera.
The camera allows for usage of a variety of lenses so you are not restricted to buying expensive ones only and can explore.
Q. Does the M50 have a digital image stabilization feature?
Yes, the Canon Camera does have an image stabilization feature, however, it is not considered that good.
Q. Can I use the M50 with the Canon Camera Connect App?
Yes, the M50 works great with the App for video and photography control both which was an issue with the previous Canon’s, as they would work for stills but wouldn’t support video.
Q. How long can this camera record for?
The M50 can continuously record for 29min 59sec in 4K resolution.
Pros
- Great color quality and outcome
- The dual pixel autofocus system
- Good quality and High-resolution stills and video recording
- Light, portable and compact
- Slow-motion, 720p at 120fps
- Huge variety of compatible lens available
Cons
- Dual Pixel Autofocus disabled in 4K quality
- It has a very plasticky build
- Below-average battery performance
- 1080p slow motion not available at 120fps
- No extra dial or button for manual settings
Conclusion
The M50 is the first Canon camera with a DIGIC 8 processor, and a new and improved Dual Pixel Autofocus. The camera is best for someone starting because of its very simplified and user-friendly interface, so you can just pick it up and go.
4. Canon EOS R
Compatible Lenses With Canon EOS R
Main Features
- A 30.3 Megapixel CMOS
- Image Processor: DIGIC 8
- Video recording at 4K Ultra HD at 30fps
- 5-inch articulating touchscreen LCD
- ISO range of 100 to 40000
- Wi-fi and Bluetooth
- Full Frame Camera
The EOS R is the first mirrorless camera from Canon. the camera speaks for itself with the 30.3 Megapixel full-frame CMOS, a DIGIG 8 image processor, and 4K ultra high definition video recording. The wi-fi and Bluetooth connectivity make transferring huge files easier and a wire-free process. It is nothing short of impressive.
Why is this camera best for beginner filmmakers?
This is the camera to go for if you are starting with mini-film projects and vlogging, in this price, with ultra HD recording and a great AF, it is a deal for a beginner. It is the best Canon Mirrorless camera for someone starting. The ultra HD video quality even with the con of being cropped doesn’t make that much of a difference at this level but just provides good quality recording.
Q. Can the previous lens and accessories be used with the EOSR system?
Yes, you can use them, without worrying about the product causing damage or limited functionality, with the use of Mount Adapters.
Q. What is a full-frame camera and is this camera one?
It is a camera in which the image sensor is 24×36 mm which is also a traditional film’s dimensions (35mm), hence the word full frame. And yes, this camera is full-frame.
Q. Does this camera have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity?
The camera does come with a Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity making the transferring process much easier.
Pros
- The Dual Pixel Autofocus
- Fully articulating touchscreen
- Good Battery life
- Great EVF and exposure
Cons
- Single-slot of memory card
- 4K video cropped
- Joystick needed
Conclusion
The EOS R provides high-quality video recording and stills and is a great choice. The good certainly outweighs the bad of this camera. Some may have an issue with the unavailability of a dual card slot but it doesn’t matter to most. The Full-Frame and 4K recording does it for most and if as a beginner you are looking for a cheap $k, Full-Frame option, this is it.
5. Nikon D5600 DSLR
Compatible Lenses With Nikon D5600 DSLR
Main Features
- A 24.2 Megapixel CMOS APS-C sensor
- ISO range of 100 to 25600
- Allow slow motion footage
- Full HD recording, 1080p at 60fps
- Interchangeable lens camera
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC
- 3inch fully articulating Touchscreen LCD
The D5600 is a newer and improved version of the D5500. The camera features a 24.2(million) MP APS-C sensor, which is sure to provide you with some great quality pictures along with a full HD video recording at 60fps. The fully articulating touchscreen LCD makes it great for recording yourself and allows for easier controls as Sony is one of the leading camera manufacturers.
Why is this camera best for beginner filmmakers?
The camera’s great performance in low light and great battery life along with the WI-FI, NFC, and Bluetooth connectivity allows for long shootings and easy transfer without the hassle of wires and cables. The D5600 offers full HD recording, and this all comes with an affordable price. The camera offers all the features one would look for in the best budget camera for beginner filmmakers.
Q. Do the D5600 have environmental/weather sealing?
The camera doesn’t have any weather or environmental sealing.
Q. Does the camera have a built-in flash?
The D5600 is equipped with an in-built flash.
Q. What is the max continuous shooting speed?
The D5600 has a max shooting speed of 5 frames per sec.
Pros
- Great performance in low light
- Long battery life
- Time-Lapse recording feature
- Comes with 39 AF pts
- Lightweight and compact
- External microphone jack
- Optical Viewfinder
Cons
- Can’t record in 4K
- No image stabilization
- Does not support an IR remote
Conclusion
The D5600 proves to be an impressive camera, even though it’s not considered that much of an upgrade from the D5500, the camera features SnapBridge which makes life easier when sharing and transferring those huge files. It for sure offers great quality and sharp stills and video recording.
5. Nikon D3500
Compatible Lenses With Nikon D3500
Main Features
- A 24.2 Megapixels APS-C sensor
- ISO Range of 100-25600
- Recording at full HD 1080p video resolution
- Continuous shooting of 5 frames per sec
- Image processor: EXPEED 4
- One of the best professional video cameras
- 11pt Autofocus system
- Optical Viewfinder
The D3500 with its 24.2Megapixel CMOS APS-C sensor is a replacement of the earlier D3400. It offers Full HD continuous shooting at 5fps with an ISO range of 100 to 25600. The camera uses an EXPEED 4 processing engine. The compact camera, with a huge variety of lenses and stills and video quality, and above all, all this comes in a very affordable price range.
Why is this camera best for beginner filmmakers?
Nikon with the 24.2 MP and 1080p shooting, definitely offers good quality. It is great for beginners on a budget. with this camera, there is a huge variety of lenses that you can use. It will be a good idea and experience of filmmaking at a low cost. You can use this for both your photography and shooting interests and should give you a pretty good idea of cameras as a beginner.
Q. Does the Nikon D3500 have weather sealing?
No, the camera does not have any environmental sealing.
Q. Does the camera have RAW support?
Yes, the camera does have a Raw support.
Q. What is the sensor size of the D3500?
The D3500 has been equipped with an APS-C sensor, whose dimensions are 23.5×15.6 mm, with the area being 366 mm2.
Pros
- Great video quality
- Bluetooth available
- Compact and light body
- Good 11pt Autofocus
- Battery life is long
- Panorama shooting feature
Cons
- Can’t shoot in 4K
- There is no in-built Wi-fi
- The Camera lacks a touchscreen and flip-out LCD
- Isn’t equipped with image stabilization
Conclusion
The camera does lack in some areas with no Wi-Fi and 4K shooting but it fairs pretty well as compared to its price. The camera might cause some issues with those used to touchscreen and LCD but it is still a great entry-level choice. This might not work for you after some years but right now it is good to build on some experience.
6. Nikon Z6
Compatible Lenses With Nikon Z6
Main Features
- A 24.5 Megapixel Full-Frame, CMOS sensor
- ISO range of 100 to 51200, expandable up to 50 to 204,800
- Processing engine: EXPEED 6
- 2-inch touchscreen tilting LCD
- Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Recording at 4K resolution
- 5-axis Image stabilization
The Z6 with a 24.5 Megapixel Full Frame sensor and 4K resolution is a prize in itself. It’s constantly compared to the Z7, however, Z6 is a great camera in itself. The camera comes with a 3.2” touchscreen LCD which allows 180 degrees tilting. It provides users with almost the same features as Z7 but also costs a ton less.
Why is this camera best for beginner filmmakers?
The camera records 4K, with high ISO, and is equipped with a large touchscreen LCD. The touchscreen LCD provides easier control and is great for a beginner. If you want a taste of greatness in your first camera, this is it. Amongst the Nikon’s series, this is a relatively cheaper option with the same great features, this is the best Nikon camera for beginner filmmakers.
Q. Does the camera have built-in Image stabilization?
The camera does come equipped with built-in image stabilization.
Q. Is the camera equipped with weather-sealing?
The Nikon Z6 does have an environmental/weather sealing protecting it from dust and rain for outdoor shooting.
Q. What is the maximum continuous shooting speed?
The maximum shooting speed of the Nikon Z6 is 12.0 frames per second.
Pros
- Great quality recording
- Time-lapse feature
- External Headphone and Microphone Jack
- 4K resolution
- High Shutter speed and performance
- Built-in large Optical Viewfinder
- 12 frames per sec, fast continuous shooting
Cons
- Battery performance below average
- Bodyweight heavier compared to other models
- Flip-out feature
Conclusion
Z6 is an awesome option in itself, with 4K full-frame shooting and lower cost, it is an eye-catcher. The Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity and the touchscreen tilting LCD are a good plus. You can use Mount lens adaptors to use any of your current Nikon lenses. The camera does pack a deal with its specifications.
7. Sony Alpha A6100
Compatible Lenses With Sony Alpha A6100
Main Features
- A 24.2 Megapixel CMOS APS-C EXMOR sensor
- ISO range of 100 to 32000, can be expanded up to 51200
- 3-inch 180o tilting screen
- 4K resolution recording up to 30fps
- Maximum continuous shooting speed of 11fps
- Affordable video camera
- Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth
- Touchscreen LCD
- In body image stabilization
The Alpha A6100 with its 4K resolution, 24.2 Megapixel APS-C sensor, and high ISO speeds is a popular choice in the market. It is just a year old, with being released in the middle of 2019. It has a 3-inch 180 degrees tilting touchscreen LCD, which makes it controls easier. The camera’s external audio input port and AF speed of 0.02 sec seem promising.
Why is this camera best for beginner filmmakers?
The Alpha 6100 offers 4K video shooting at 30 fps and an Autofocus speed of 0.02 sec. The external mic jack allows for good quality audio input. All this comes under a pretty inexpensive range. The touchscreen tilting LCD makes it easier for beginners who are used to touchscreen phones. This proves its place, in the best sony cameras for beginner filmmakers list.
Q. What is the sensor size of the A6100 and is its full-frame?
The camera comes with an APS-C sensor of dimesions: 23.5 x 15.6 mm. It is not a full-frame camera.
Q. Does the camera have a clean HDMI output and can be used as a webcam?
The camera can be used as a webcam and comes with a clean HDMI output.
Q. Does the camera have in-built image stabilization?
The camera does not have image stabilization.
Pros
- Great video quality
- Fully articulating screen
- Equipped with in-built Viewfinder
- Can be controlled with smartphone
- External mic jack
- Time-Lapse recording feature
Cons
- No built-in image stabilization
- Below-average battery life performance
Conclusion
The camera packs some great features at an affordable price. This is a user-friendly camera with a great built and ergonomics. The camera works well as an entry-level and is one of the less pricey options of this Sony series. The battery performance might cause an issue with long shooting days, but its best for beginner level shootings.
8. Sony Alpha A7 II
Compatible Lenses With Sony Alpha A7 II
Main Features
- A 24.3 Megapixel Full-Frame CMOS sensor
- ISO range of 100 to 25600 expandable up to 50 to 51200
- Image stabilization, 5- axis sensor
- 3-inch Tilting LCD
- Image processor: BIONZ
- Able to shoot slow motion videos
- Full HD 1080p recording up to 60fps
- Can be used as a cinema camera
The Alpha A7II is a mirrorless camera with its 24.3 (million) MP Full-Frame sensor and a high ISO. The camera for sure has made a name for itself in the market without a doubt. It was released as a replacement to A7 and replace it did.
Why is this camera best for beginner filmmakers?
The camera is a great choice for anyone starting as a filmmaker with its high-quality video recording, great low light performance, and full-frame sensor. The camera allows stabilization. With a price not so high, it is a great deal for beginners. A 4K is not the most necessary feature for a beginner and a full HD 1080 should do just fine as the best camera for filmmaking.
Q. What is the maximum continuous shooting speed?
The camera features a maximum continuous shooting speed of 5.0 frames per sec.
Q. Does the A7 II have weather sealing? Can I shoot in the rain?
The camera comes with environmental sealing, you can shoot outdoors without any worry.
Pros
- Fully articulating screen
- External Microphone and Headphone jack
- Can be remotely controlled using a smartphone
- High shutter speed and ISO
- 117 AF points
- Large Viewfinder, great results
- Great quality video (full HD)
- Wi-Fi and NFC
- A 5 axis Image stabilization feature
Cons
- Touchscreen feature not provided
- Battery life not long
- 4K video recording not allowed
Conclusion
The A7 II is a great choice with its full-frame, high video quality, and great AF. The beginners should take a look at it. Even some professionals prefer a full-frame over 4K, so go for it would be our advice for this camera.
Best Camera for Beginner Filmmakers Based on User Review
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Check On Amazon | ||
 |
|
Check On Amazon | ||
|
|
Check On Amazon | ||
|
|
Check On Amazon | ||
 |
|
Check On Amazon | ||
 |
|
Check On Amazon | ||
 |
|
Check On Amazon |
Conclusion of Best Camera for Beginner Filmmakers
All of these cameras listed above while being the best for filmmaking are also pretty good otherwise and have excellent stills quality, so don’t think for a second that just because you bought one of these for filmmaking you cannot use it for your photography hobby.
In the end, do remember that it doesn’t matter what is the cost of your camera, and how perfect its features are, what matters is the passion within. Many of Oscar-worthy films were made using some of these and you can too.
What a great filmmaker need are experience, skill, and a creative mind? When you are starting, there will be a possibility that none of these work perfectly and you will need to put in a lot of hours before it all goes right, and when it does you will see the difference in the quality of the work you produce.
