The 6 Best Cameras For Videography And Filmmaking - Summer 2024 Reviews

The Panasonic LUMIX S5 II is the best camera for videography that we've tested. It's loaded with features that equal and even surpass more expensive options, making it one of the best bang-for-your-buck cameras if you're interested in videography. That includes 6k open gate recording, 4k at 60 fps (albeit with an APS-C crop), and internal 10-bit 4:2:2 capture, with support for a wide range of codecs and recording formats. Video quality from its full-frame sensor is also excellent, and it has one of the best in-body image stabilization (IBIS) systems among full-frame models.

The S5 II is also the first LUMIX camera to feature phase-detection autofocus, giving it significantly improved subject tracking compared to its predecessor, particularly in video mode. It's worth noting that native L-mount lenses can be expensive, although you can get around that by going for third-party options or using a lens-mount adapter. Of course, if you want to save even more money, the original Panasonic LUMIX S5 is a steal, particularly if you buy used and don't need the more advanced autofocus of the S5 II.

If you already have a stable of Micro Four Thirds lenses, the Panasonic LUMIX GH6 is a no-brainer. This is one of the most capable Micro Four Thirds cameras on the market, and its video-centric design makes it one of the best cameras for filmmaking and advanced video work. Unlike the Panasonic LUMIX S5 II above, the GH6 supports features like external RAW video output and internal ProRes codecs out of the box (the S5 II can do those things too, but you need to buy an upgrade key at an additional cost). It also has built-in heat vents to prevent overheating and a unique screen that can both tilt and fully articulate, making it easier to shoot at various angles.

The biggest drawback here is that the GH6 uses Panasonic's older contrast-based autofocus system, which isn't as effective and can create pulsing artifacts in the background of your videos. Ultimately, if you're a solo operator who tends to shoot in less controlled lighting conditions and relies on autofocus, the full-frame S5 II will likely suit you better. On the flip side, if you're a more advanced videographer who needs RAW video output and doesn't mind pulling focus manually, you won't be disappointed by the GH6. With the Panasonic LUMIX GH7 on its way, you'll likely be able to pick up the GH6 for even cheaper soon, too.

The Fujifilm X-H2S is one of the best hybrid cameras in its price range for videographers who need high frame rates and speed. That's because of its 26-megapixel stacked sensor, which keeps rolling shutter to a minimum and makes it a great fit for fast-moving subjects and sweeping action videography. It also supports 6.2k open gate recording, 4k at up to 60 fps without a crop, and a slow-motion recording mode that can capture 4k at up to 120 fps.

Aside from its superb internal recording capabilities, the camera also has all the inputs you'll need for video peripherals, including a full-sized HDMI port, making it easy to connect to an external recorder or display. Like the Panasonic LUMIX GH6, it also supports RAW video output to a compatible external recorder. Even without an external recorder, the camera's internal codec support is fantastic, with Apple ProRes formats to capture higher-quality video with less compression.

The Sony ZV-E1 is one of the best low-light video cameras we've tested. It features a 12 MP full-frame sensor optimized for low-light shooting, with fantastic noise handling and plenty of dynamic range for great results in even the trickiest lighting conditions. It's the same sensor found in the pricier Sony α7S III and Sony FX3—though we haven't tested them, they're known to be some of the best videography cameras in their respective classes. The ZV-E1 is billed as a vlogging camera, so it's more accessible to newcomers and has a more compact body. It also includes Sony's ever-reliable autofocus, IBIS, and 4k recording at up to 60 fps. That said, it can overheat pretty quickly during longer recording sessions.

The Panasonic LUMIX GH5s is another great option for low-light videography that's less likely to overheat. Though it uses a smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor, the sensor's low resolution and dual-native ISO design optimize the camera for low light. The MFT system also features more compact lens options, and the camera has a more effective IBIS system, but its autofocus is much less reliable than the ZV-E1. That may not be a dealbreaker if you prefer to focus manually, so the GH5s is a good choice if you want to save some money.

Another great option for aspiring filmmakers is the Panasonic LUMIX GH5 II. It's the predecessor to the Panasonic LUMIX GH6 above and uses a Micro Four Thirds sensor, albeit with a slightly lower resolution. However, it still delivers excellent overall video quality, and the Four Thirds system has a vast library of lenses to choose from, including plenty of compact and relatively affordable options.

The GH5 II has a wide range of resolution and frame rate options, including anamorphic modes to get a wider, more cinematic aspect ratio and 4k recording at up to 60 fps. You also get Log profiles and 10-bit 4:2:2 4k recording (up to 30 fps) to capture more color information and give you more flexibility in post. Unlike the GH6, however, it lacks a CFexpress card slot, can't shoot in Apple ProRes formats internally, and is a bit more limited in frame rate options. For the price, however, the GH5 II is a fantastic choice.

The Sony ZV-E10 is the best camera for filmmaking on a tighter budget. While this entry-level APS-C vlogging cam lacks a lot of the more advanced features of our picks above, it's ideal for beginners who are just dipping their toes into videography. Like the higher-end Sony ZV-E1, it lacks a viewfinder, making it less versatile for hybrid shooters, but its fully articulated screen is ideal for video work. The camera is also highly portable for on-the-go shooting, and Sony's E-mount features a wide range of both native and third-party lenses.

Unfortunately, the camera doesn't have in-body stabilization, but you can pair it with optically stabilized lenses to get steadier camera movements. Compared to higher-end options, you'll also miss out on internal 10-bit capture and 4k 60 fps recording. For the price, though, the camera is quite feature-packed, with a fairly wide range of frame rates, including 4k at up to 30 fps and 1080p at up to 120 fps. Overall, it's a great choice for the budget-conscious filmmaker.