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Guest
Guest
Been looking at cheap cameras, as I have been thinking about buying something again. Here is my current assessments:
I am going to start with four categories based solely on video image quality, however, some cameras maybe be in two or more groups due to functions or lack thereof. Once we get too technical with function, aesthetic, etc, the list can become very long. Since there are so many cameras past and present available today, let's not get bogged down with extraneous cameras. Let's keep it to ones that excel in image quality and/or bring something exciting or unique to the table.
1. High End
Best possible image quality, that rivals standards used in the most cinematic movies
2. Specialty
A camera that delivers the best possible image quality in a package that makes the impossible, possible. Only the GoPro Hero4 and beyond can be accepted of the GoPros.
3. Mid Tier
Here is were function meets image, where pro features are a rquirement. Pro features are required for reasons of broadcast, multicam, etc. This is were IQ and features collide.
4. Low End
Work arounds and compromises abound, but if you are willing to make those sacrifices, the end result can look great on your vimeo reel.
5. LoFi
Fun cameras you may have forgotten about... but may be with shooting with.
Fun Fact: interestingly enough, the DVX100B still goes for too much money for me to include it anywhere on this list, new or used.
The List....
(List updated monthly. Submissions always accepted, just reply to this thread.)
HIGH END
Red One MX - $4,000 (USED) (Scarlett MX and Raven barely make the list because of accessories.)
Sony F35 - $7,000 (USED) (This camera just makes the list due to its cult following and unique abilities.
Black Magic 4.6K (NEW)
SPECIALTY (low light, stunt, ariel)
DJI x5r - $3200 (NEW)
Sony RX10 -
Sony A7sII -
BMPCC
Canon 1DC
GoPro
MID TIER - (Where "pro" functions may make the difference)
Sony F3 -
Panasonic AF100 - $800 (USED)
Panasonic Varicam 2700 -
BMC 4.5K raw -
BMPCC - ~$800 (new or used)
Canon C100 MKI/MKII
GH4 with YAGH (interface unit)
Canon MK2
Sony FS5 (USED)
Sony FS00
Canon C300 MKI (one) (USED?)
BMC 2.5K
LOW END
Sony A7 series
Canon 50D and 7D with ML raw - ~$450 (USED)
Canon 5DII with ML raw - $800 (USED)
GH4
GoPro
LoFi
SDX900 - $400
Any VHS camcorder
I'll edit this in a few moments, but let the thread begin!
I am going to start with four categories based solely on video image quality, however, some cameras maybe be in two or more groups due to functions or lack thereof. Once we get too technical with function, aesthetic, etc, the list can become very long. Since there are so many cameras past and present available today, let's not get bogged down with extraneous cameras. Let's keep it to ones that excel in image quality and/or bring something exciting or unique to the table.
1. High End
Best possible image quality, that rivals standards used in the most cinematic movies
2. Specialty
A camera that delivers the best possible image quality in a package that makes the impossible, possible. Only the GoPro Hero4 and beyond can be accepted of the GoPros.
3. Mid Tier
Here is were function meets image, where pro features are a rquirement. Pro features are required for reasons of broadcast, multicam, etc. This is were IQ and features collide.
4. Low End
Work arounds and compromises abound, but if you are willing to make those sacrifices, the end result can look great on your vimeo reel.
5. LoFi
Fun cameras you may have forgotten about... but may be with shooting with.
Fun Fact: interestingly enough, the DVX100B still goes for too much money for me to include it anywhere on this list, new or used.
The List....
(List updated monthly. Submissions always accepted, just reply to this thread.)
HIGH END
Red One MX - $4,000 (USED) (Scarlett MX and Raven barely make the list because of accessories.)
Sony F35 - $7,000 (USED) (This camera just makes the list due to its cult following and unique abilities.
Black Magic 4.6K (NEW)
SPECIALTY (low light, stunt, ariel)
DJI x5r - $3200 (NEW)
Sony RX10 -
Sony A7sII -
BMPCC
Canon 1DC
GoPro
MID TIER - (Where "pro" functions may make the difference)
Sony F3 -
Panasonic AF100 - $800 (USED)
Panasonic Varicam 2700 -
BMC 4.5K raw -
BMPCC - ~$800 (new or used)
Canon C100 MKI/MKII
GH4 with YAGH (interface unit)
Canon MK2
Sony FS5 (USED)
Sony FS00
Canon C300 MKI (one) (USED?)
BMC 2.5K
LOW END
Sony A7 series
Canon 50D and 7D with ML raw - ~$450 (USED)
Canon 5DII with ML raw - $800 (USED)
GH4
GoPro
LoFi
SDX900 - $400
Any VHS camcorder
I'll edit this in a few moments, but let the thread begin!
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