It can be challenging to imagine how people used to take pictures and videos back in the day. Due to the incredible advancement of video cameras, the growth of the photography industry, and technological advancements.
The options available back then were very limited compared to today. Not so long ago, a handful of devices with similar capabilities were covered by the term “video camera.” But, today, many video cameras are available at all prices, shapes, and sizes. Below is a brief overview of the different types of video cameras on the market.
Types of video Camera: The type of video camera you should buy will depend on your intended use. When talking about video cameras, it’s easy to see the wide variety of cameras that are out there. It’s easy to overspend or buy a camera that doesn’t survive up to your expectations.
Here is a detail of the various kinds of video cameras:
Table of Contents
Different Types of Cameras
- DSLR Cameras
- Professional-Grade Cameras
- Point-and-Shoot Cameras
- Mirrorless Cameras
- Digital Camcorders
- Sports And Action Cameras
- Smartphones Cameras
1.DSLR Cameras
DSLRs are the favorite cameras for most creatives. Whether a professional videographer is looking to get their YouTube channel off the ground, You’ll likely find this camera works for any project. They deliver exceptional, professional-level sharpness and even incredible background bokeh.
Videos are high-resolution, thanks to DSLR’s advanced sensors, manual camera settings, and interchangeable lenses. It stands for digital single-lens reflex, but the mechanics are straightforward. Light enters a lens, hits a mirror, and reflects that light into the viewfinder. You can use a DSLR with a full-frame camera, a 35mm sensor, or an APS-C sensor, which is a crop.
Uses
When making YouTube videos, a camera of this kind is beneficial. YouTube is fantastic because it supports a wide range of video production types. These cameras are appropriate for this adaptable platform, and you can select different sensor sizes.
Furthermore, their sensor sizes are perfect for this type of work. You might be unable to find it because it is small and portable; a DSLR can be used almost anywhere. They don’t restrict what can be done with them either.
Price Range
Different DSLR cameras have unique features; as a result, the prices of the various models vary as well. The lowest price range you should aim for is between $460 and $535 for a decent video camera. The cost of the high-end models can range from more than $5000 to almost $7000.
Shortcomings
- Getting the features, inner parts, and high-quality costs money. You can be sure that DSLR cameras are more expensive than the majority of other video cameras as a result.
- Suppose you want them to continue functioning as it requires regular maintenance, great care for that and cleaning.
- It may be challenging for beginners to use due to its many features and manual nature.
- This may not suit you if you have to move around a lot because of its size; it is less portable.
- If you must carry them, you may experience stiffness in your neck and back, as the cameras are large, heavy, and bulky.
- You will have to spend more money to buy the necessary accessories.
Popular DSLR Video Cameras
❖ Nikon D5200
Its sensor has a resolution of 24.1 megapixels. One of the reasons it is so popular is that it provides high quality at a reasonable price. Its 39-point autofocus improves sensitivity and refreshes at 4.9 frames per second with 32 frames.
The battery can take up to 500 pictures with moving subjects after a full charge, and it works well. To name a few advantages, expect the best autofocus, exposure, and white balance camera detects the scene and selects the appropriate settings portable.
❖ 18 MP Canon EOS 1300D DZ
Its sensor has a resolution of 18 megapixels. The ISO ranges from 100 to 6400, but because of the 920K screen resolution, you can increase it to 12,800. Expect clear and sharp video images that can be transferred over WiFi or NFC, so if you want to record 1080p videos, go for it.
2. Professional-Grade Cameras
A vast category is professional-grade film cameras as they are engaged in producing films and a profession in videography. Inexperienced filmmakers may find these to be bulky and expensive. Still, they offer a variety of features that other cameras lack, including image sensors, processors, lenses, ISO ranges, and aperture ranges.
Most people would not consider the tens of thousands of dollars they would have to spend on such a camera worthwhile. But if someone has had a DSLR camera for a while and earns money shooting videos, they should consider upgrading to this category.
Uses
Professionals use the device to take videos and film documentaries and create any other video-related content of a professional caliber. They are cameras that professionals use to make a living, as their name would imply. They are considered professional due to their design, distinctive features, dependability, and, most importantly, excellent video quality.
Videographers frequently operate in challenging environments because professional cameras are weatherproof and can withstand moderate and minor failures. These cameras are the best because of their unique, simple-to-adjust settings. Videographers need to adjust some features when taking videos depending on various factors.
Price Range
Canon and Nikon models are the most expensive because they are the best for professional videography, as prices vary depending on the model.
Remember that the more features a professional-grade camera has, the better your work will be. Starting with a limited budget, you can start small and upgrade.
Shortcomings
- They have enormous memory capacity, and people don’t think about the videos to ensure they don’t record unnecessary details. As a result, some videographers produce lengthy videos with enough content.
- Professional-grade cameras cost more than other cameras because of their superior design, features, and performance. As a result, they are out of reach for beginners on a limited budget.
Popular Professional-grade Video Cameras
❖Canon 5D Mark III
A well-known professional-grade camera, Canon produces high-quality videos, making it ideal for shoots. Since it is made well and is dependable, professionals can use it for many years of work. They are also weather-resistant, making them a good choice for working in rainy, hot, and other adverse conditions.
❖D810 by Nikon
This high-end, durable, and robust professional video camera ensures the videographers will achieve excellent results. Its sturdy construction makes it resistant to small shocks and failure in various weather conditions.
3. Point-and-Shoot Cameras
This typical small, primary video camera allows you to point and shoot compared to DSLRs and other video cameras. It is one of the most miniature professional-grade video cameras you can buy. They have many features, including live preview, manual exposure adjustments, zoom, and basic auto-focus.
Users are not as sophisticated as more expensive cameras; there are limitations on what you can capture, and capture quality varies. Besides, you can still record in 1080p and even 4K, and the smaller size makes this video camera an excellent place to begin for those learning the craft of filmmaking.
Uses
They are not suitable for commercial use, as was before stated, but you can use the cameras to capture special moments for your kids to remember in the future. The camera may be perfect if you keep dogs or cats at home.
Point-and-shoot cameras are perfect if you want to capture a moment, like a birthday or a special occasion at school, as these kinds of video cameras are also ideal for trips.
Price Range
Remember that a camera can be in any other video camera, including point-and-shoot models, in light of the parent type. The price range is significant; for instance, DSLRs are pricey, and some also function as point-and-shoot cameras.
Shortcomings
- They are not the best option for someone who wants to learn how to shoot videos.
- You never learn about that idea because you don’t have control over the camera.
- There is only one fixed-focus zoom lens on it.
Popular Point-and-Shoot Video Cameras
❖Sony DSCWX220/B
The lens has a 10x optical zoom and a 20x clear image zoom along with an 18.2-megapixel sensor, which guarantees clear pictures even in low light. Additionally, it has a background noise-canceling engine with up to 10 fps of full HD 1080p video recording. NFC or WiFi connections to other devices are simple; additionally, it is ideal for moving objects.
❖Coolpix L340 by Nikon
For the optical and dynamic fine, expect zooms of up to 28x and 56x; as a result, the videos will have excellent quality. Also made possible by the sensor’s 20.2 megapixels are HD videos as it has battery power and is perfect for recording videos.
4. Mirrorless Cameras
Unlike DSLRs, mirrorless cameras are lighter and more portable and produce amazing photos and videos. Before making a choice, comparing DSLR and Mirrorless is worthwhile; many professionals are changing.
The light enters the camera body rather than passing through a mirror and onto the sensor. Compared to a DSLR, the mirrorless camera’s construction reduces camera shake. They are also quieter than DSLRs because the fewer moving parts selection of lenses is somewhat constrained.
Uses
Random video shoots
People who take random videos, i.e., those who travel and enjoy shooting videos, can enjoy mirrorless cameras because of their small size. This camera is easy to transport wherever you go, also it has a unique autofocus feature that works with the sensor. You don’t have to worry about back-and-forth issues, so it’s the best choice in those situations.
View Performance Live
The people who record live videos are well-known, and if you pay attention, you’ll notice that some videos are higher quality than others. Although the causes of these details may vary, the type of camera used has a significant impact.
The best cameras for this job are mirrorless models, which have autofocus and 4K recording capabilities to enhance the videos with little focus.
Price Range
Since mirrorless cameras are the most recent improvements in camera technology and their cost is higher than that of other models. The camera’s body, which can cost between $300 and $1,000, is excessive as most of the lenses’ available options are expensive and constrained. High-quality videos make up for the cost of purchasing these video cameras.
Shortcomings
- Their lens options are limited, and as a result, so are the upgrade options. Videographers use DSLR lenses because some of them are compatible with the camera.
- Small-sized batteries are included with mirrorless cameras, and they have short battery life and won’t last through a lengthy video shoot.
- Compared to their main rival, DSLR cameras, they are more expensive.
- They experience a slight lag when recording videos of an action.
Popular Mirrorless Cameras
❖A6000L by Sony
One of the largest companies developing mirrorless cameras is Sony. They come with top-notch internal software and one of the best mirrorless cameras. In most cases, the manufacturer includes a viewfinder; it also offers a variety of lenses from which videographers can select their favorite.
❖Canon X-E2
It is one of the most miniature mirrorless cameras, making navigation easy. Additionally, the product has physical control dials that make it simple for videographers to change settings. It also works with most older lenses, making it the best choice for those who like to switch lenses.
5. Digital Camcorders
Most of us assumed a video camera was a digital camcorder as children. These are made to be affordable, adaptable, and flexible and are used for making personal videos rather than anything. These are in no way comparable to DSLRs or expert video cameras; consider a camcorder if you’re looking for a camera for family and friends.
This video camera model is dated even though it is affordable and convenient. Suppose someone is producing anything other than personal videos for themselves. They won’t get the professional quality video they want.
Uses
Digital camcorders are helpful for a variety of tasks, so let’s examine the situations in which a digital camcorder is most beneficial.
Shooting an Event
Digital camcorders help record events because of their lightweight and ergonomic design, as they are also appropriate for journalism. Additionally, they keep video files in small sizes in storage. In these situations, managing them is straightforward, and if the need arises, mobile editing is workable and, above all, accessible as they are designed for on-the-go moving applications.
Create a Documentary
They are also helpful when producing documentaries for the job and have excellent color spaces, making them ideal for the task. Because of their high bitrates and big image sensors, they are capable of the job.
Being ready for anything is essential when filming a documentary; that’s where its built-in autofocuses and image stabilization features come in.
Price Range
It’s interesting to note that a digital camcorder can be purchased for under $100. Yet, used cameras make up the majority of the market, so pricey ones cost upwards of a thousand dollars.
Shortcomings
The majority of them, particularly the professional ones, are priced. Thus, you might not feel the value of your money if you can’t make money or buy money for paid work. You won’t think it’s worth it, making it difficult to hold them for extended periods.
Popular Digital Camcorders
❖Panasonic HC-V180EG-K Full-HD Camcorder
His digital camcorder is perfect for capturing footage at a distance. The capture is made more accessible by the 50x optical zoom and 90x digital zoom. Since it has an image stabilizer, you shouldn’t be concerned about shaky footage.
❖Sony HDR-CX450 Full-HD Camcorder
This digital camcorder is ideal if you want to capture HD videos as Carl Zeiss’s lens is of high quality, 26.8 mm. Given that it weighs only 195 grams, it is lightweight, so a 30x optical and 60x digital zoom is available. You can use various image effect programs as a result and also have facial recognition, which is crucial.
❖Mini Director
It is portable due to its small size, sleek design, and lightweight, and it is also simple to record and view your recorded content and share videos with friends and followers. It has a full HD 1080 resolution and a refresh rate of 30 frames per second, and it uses both WiFi and a rechargeable battery.
6. Sports And Action Cameras
Sports and action video cameras are made to record brisk movement and activity. They are handheld and portable; some are GoPro-style POV videos. When recording uneven activity, these cameras place a lot of emphasis on image stabilization tools and maintaining clarity.
These video cameras can use different harnesses, mounts, and attachments. With this model, you can creatively shoot videos that aren’t always possible with other models, with the drawback that their audio capture is inadequate.
Uses
Videos of extreme sports, surfing in challenging locations, are available on the internet. You wonder how the expert captured videos of the actions in such detail. The best option is an action camera because it is made to capture the specifics. They are helpful when you want to share activities with others, such as helping in surfing, swimming, fishing, and more.
Their small size makes them simple to mount on people or objects and need to ensure a clear view of the action, making them the best option for recording actions. Its lenses have a wide-angle view aside from that.
Price Range
Depending on the brand, sports and action cameras have different prices. Although some cameras cost as little as $150, they don’t perform well. The outcomes would be different if you could stretch this budget 100%. And as great action cams like the GoPro cameras, which are among the best options, are available.
Shortcomings
- When shooting a video with sports and action cameras, you must ensure you have a power bank or another battery pack. Because they use power more than other types of cameras do.
- Since recording action in detail is their primary purpose, video and picture quality is poor.
- The videos from sports and action cameras put a significant amount of strain on your computer and if you plan to edit the videos, make sure you use a functional laptop.
- It would help if you made more accessory purchases to have a functional operating mechanism.
Popular Sports and Action Video Cameras
❖GoPro Hero 8 Black
The best action camera currently available is this one, which is so simple to use because of its lightweight and compact design. The manufacturers have improved the motion stabilization feature to smooth the videos, and as a result, its performance is excellent. It has a battery life of one to three hours and 4K videos; additionally, it is waterproof.
❖Insta360 One X
Another fantastic action camera to consider purchasing is the Insta360 One X. Even when working in a low-light environment, it provides natural lighting. It is manageable and portable because of the compact feature of being waterproof and has an hour of battery life.
7. Smartphone Cameras
Videographers use smartphones to capture footage, and modern smartphones can produce stunning 4K videos. It will produce quality videos if you have the right abilities and a great environment. The video quality of a smartphone’s camera is inferior to that of a professional camera.
Even so, most professionals can manage it, especially when there are no other options. It is an excellent choice for those who enjoy making videos for fun or remembering a specific location. But smartphone cameras aren’t the best; if you want to make money even with extensive editing, the results won’t match those of professional cameras.
Uses
It is ideal for beginners
Due to potential budget constraints, smartphone cameras are the best choice for beginning videographers. You can enhance the video quality without having the necessary skills due to the availability of many video editing apps. Additionally, most people own smartphones, so newcomers begin their careers with these cameras.
Unplanned video productions
Since smartphones are always with you as opposed to bulky DSLR cameras, these cameras are the best for spontaneous video capture. Professionals carry them for a specific reason when traveling; smartphone cameras come in handy for recording videos to appreciate a scene.
Price Range
The best smartphone cameras could cost between $250 and $400. The cost may seem high, but it is reasonable given that you will receive a smartphone and a camera. When purchasing a smartphone, most people consider more factors than the camera features, and in contrast to other cameras, the features are your top consideration.
Shortcomings
- Professionals should stick with professional cameras like DSLR and Mirrorless and more since these cameras struggle to focus on moving objects.
- Low autofocus speed.
- They perform poorly when a telephoto lens is required.
- Due to the small size of the sensors on smartphones, cameras can be challenging to capture high-quality videos in low light.
- Fixed lenses prevent you from changing your lens. Most smartphones have four cameras to make up for this shortcoming but still fall short of professional camera quality.
Popular smartphone Video Cameras
❖Sony Xperia 1
It is a smartphone with a 4K, 120 frames per second camera with manual controls. The advanced color settings are the best choice for adding color to your video. Additionally, it has a vital autofocus feature.
❖iPhone 12 Pro Max from Apple
The gadget has a 4K video recording feature with 60 frames per second capture setting. These smartphones have a unique color menu and a Dolby Vision feature; additionally, video stabilization is excellent.
❖Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra
Small sensors are one of the drawbacks of smartphone cameras but this type has a large sensor ideal for low light conditions. The video has a good color selection, excellent stabilization, and good video quality.
References:
- https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-mirrorless-cameras/
- https://www.wirerealm.com/guides/types-of-video-cameras-list
- https://filmora.wondershare.com/virtual-reality/types-of-video-camera.html
- https://www.amazon.com/Camcorders-Camera-Photo/b?ie=UTF8&node=172421
- https://www.sony.com/electronics/camcorders/t/handycam-camcorders
- https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/buy/Pro-Camcorders-Cameras/ci/1881
- https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/mirrorless-vs-dslr/