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WhatΓÇÖs the best camera to start with?
- Thread starter Ykslim
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Believe or not, using your Android or iPhone (less than 3 years old) is probably the best way to start. Many experienced Youtubers continue to use their phone as their primary camera if not a secondary camera.
Thanks yeah IΓÇÖm using my iPhone 12 to record right now and I also see a lot of YouTubers using phone for backup also. Just wanted to try a camera out and see which one I like the best
When I livestream, I have a Logitech Pro C922 (around $75-100 on Amazon).
When I need to record myself for a "non-live" video, I just use my Samsung Galaxy A50 (which is just about 3 years old) since it produces HD videos.
Your iPhone would be more than enough to use, it even has 4K (which I don't have).
When I need to record myself for a "non-live" video, I just use my Samsung Galaxy A50 (which is just about 3 years old) since it produces HD videos.
Your iPhone would be more than enough to use, it even has 4K (which I don't have).
Yeah I donΓÇÖt think IΓÇÖm there yet myself. Maybe stay with my phone for awhile longer
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I am gonna agree with Matt, that starting out, a good smartphone is way more than you need. The OnePlus T7 was the top winner of several professional 2019 reviews that focus on smartphone video. I bought one just for this reason and it does take amazing video. You can get a good one for as little as $150 on eBay.
If you want a dedicated camera, I am gonna recommend the Sony RX100 VII. The main reasons are because anything less than this is not gonna give you better video than the OnePlus T7, and the VII model incorporates Sony's exclusive Animal Eye Detection AF system which is only found on their top-of-line Mirrorless bodies that would set you back 3 to 5K. This AF system is unmatched in the camera market in any brand, and you can have it in a $1000 price range in the RX100 VII.
Bottom line, if you don't need telephoto and advanced AF systems, I say, stick with a smartphone. If you need telephoto and advanced AF capabilities, I say go with the Sony RX100 VIII.
If you want a dedicated camera, I am gonna recommend the Sony RX100 VII. The main reasons are because anything less than this is not gonna give you better video than the OnePlus T7, and the VII model incorporates Sony's exclusive Animal Eye Detection AF system which is only found on their top-of-line Mirrorless bodies that would set you back 3 to 5K. This AF system is unmatched in the camera market in any brand, and you can have it in a $1000 price range in the RX100 VII.
Bottom line, if you don't need telephoto and advanced AF systems, I say, stick with a smartphone. If you need telephoto and advanced AF capabilities, I say go with the Sony RX100 VIII.
Just your your phone and learn motion picture. When you know where you want to go, then and only then start building up a "proper" camera rig. Get an external mic for your phone, then get a cage, then get a tripod/monopod.
I prefer a cinema cameras, but I'm trying to be Jacques Cousteau. The point is get started with what you have, then build as you need to get where you want to go.
I prefer a cinema cameras, but I'm trying to be Jacques Cousteau. The point is get started with what you have, then build as you need to get where you want to go.
Thanks for sharing the photo of your setup. It is always interesting to see people's equipment. Infinite variety of options.
I am also in starting stage and doing videos with average camera.
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I use CANON DSLR 770D for capturing timelapses and long tutorial videos. But, for recording shorts, I use my Oppo A16 phone. To avoid grainy videos, try to use the RING FILL LIGHT (most tiktokers use). Set up good light and you are good to go. If you need tips about better SOUND recording, I can help you with that too.
I'll echo what everyone else said, and just use a good smartphone camera.
Another consideration to ask is, are you shooting indoor or outdoor? If you're doing indoor, make sure you have a good front light source like a ring light (I got decent one on Amazon about 5 years ago for $80). This is a night and day difference, and will give your videos a much more professional look. Along with that, make sure your ambient lighting is consistent and not getting washed out by the sun coming in through the windows. If you're shooting during the day in a room with windows, get some blackout curtains.
Another consideration to ask is, are you shooting indoor or outdoor? If you're doing indoor, make sure you have a good front light source like a ring light (I got decent one on Amazon about 5 years ago for $80). This is a night and day difference, and will give your videos a much more professional look. Along with that, make sure your ambient lighting is consistent and not getting washed out by the sun coming in through the windows. If you're shooting during the day in a room with windows, get some blackout curtains.
The best camera to start with depends on your personal goals and budget. Here are some options to consider:
- For budget-friendly options: Canon PowerShot SX620 HS, Nikon COOLPIX B500, Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H300
- For those looking for a camera with manual controls: Canon EOS Rebel T7, Nikon D3500, Sony Alpha a6000
- For those looking for a mirrorless option: Canon EOS M50 Mark II, Fujifilm X-T30, Sony a7 III.
Use your iphone 12 (which is already better than most cameras) until you understand better, if you really need anything else.
I got a Sony RX100 III from Cex store second hand for £235 and its brilliant and was like new condition