In my opinion the best camera for UA-cam videos is the camera you have and if you don't have one, the one you can afford. The quality of the content of the video is far more important than the quality of the camera than made the video.
Use the right tool for the job. Use a camcorder for filming videos, that's what they're built for. If you want to take snapshots, go with a DSLR. Camcorders have a built-in fan to keep them from overheating. DSLR's don't have this built-in fan. People wonder why their camera gets hot after recording awhile. It's really simple. Use the right tool for the job. Why can't people seem to understand this?
The issue is consumer camcorders capture tons of video, but only for documentary level, and not at a very good or artistic level. Even low end DSLRs or mirrorless cameras can take amazing looking video, even if you have to work really hard to get it, often with setting all the settings yourself. In low light, if you want good footage on a consumer camcorder, forget about it.
+FixedGearForLife: I think like you so please bear with me when I say it's idealistic and doesn't work 100% of the time in reality. There's the architect/artist in us who wants the perfect tooling and parts, then there's the financier/manager who's always on a budget (if it's not money, it's time) and finally, there's the engineer/entrepreneur who likes to make do with what they have. (did you read the E-Myth? kinda like that) I think we all begin as the artist and end up as the engineer with our projects and life. This video is a perfect illustration of that, because we can't always fork resources (guy #2) into the perfect tool (guy #1). Guy #3 finds a way. Anedocte/story: I ran virtualization software (i.e., making several Operating Systems, e.g. Windows or Linux, run concurrently on a single physical machine) for *years* on a puny dual-core Mac Mini. The gist of it is that it was *vastly underpowered* and nowhere near enough. But the downside? instead of giving me instant response, it would take like a second or two or ten. In my case (learning IT and dev stuff), it was just not an issue (when you learn you read for an hour then click twice and read for another hour haha). See what I mean? I could have forked $4K as I eventually did for a proper workstation, but I could not at the time (spending $20K for healthcare on horses lol). So 'engineer' in me found a way to make 'architect''s dream come true.
One method to get around the lack of bokeh is focal length. I learned this when I picked up photography. Focal length will affect how much bokeh (blurry background) there will be. The more you zoom in, the creamier the background. For a wide shot, the more that is in focus (depth of field). Obviously, if you're looking to vlog while holding the camera at arms length, don't expect that nice creamy background. But if you don't mind setting it on a tripod and step back a few feet, you can zoom in and achieve at least some bokeh. As for my camcorder, it has really good continuous auto-focus, face detection, 24fps - 60fps (for slow motion), records at 1080p and excel's in really good light. Mic jack, headphones, HDMI for TV or external monitor are more great options. I get SOME manual control with exposure compensation, manual-focus, manual audio controls, white balance, etc. It even has focus tracking. In the end, like fixedgearforlife said, use the right tool for the right job. My camcorder will be used for several video recordings.
I just started getting into vlogging last year so I've been kind of experimenting. Right now I use mostly my phone, because I can put in selfie mode so I can see myself properly in frame. This is something I can't do with DSLR. A lot of my vlogs have time lapse elements to them so I was using DSLR for that. Great quality, but it's kinda hard on the shutter to drive it so much. So I got a gopro which I use almost exclusively for time lapse. The quality is not as great but is acceptable. It's nice to be able to plop it somewhere, plug a battery bank into it, and it's good for the day + more. I do find the DSLR has the best quality video but it lacks in control. In video mode you do lose out on all the manual stuff like iso and aperture, and also lose out on auto focus. The biggest drawback though is the time limit. With that said, I recently ordered a camcorder. It's a cheap consumer one, paid around $200, but feature wise I think it will be the best bet. Can go on a tripod unlike the phone and will have higher quality than the phone, has the front facing screen, and can record for a long time, and has auto focus. So I'll use that for vlogging and the other camera options for accessory video. I would love to see a DSLR that also as a good video function though, since quality wise they do have the best image sensor and lens options. I'm sure they're out there, just mine (Nikon D7000) is not one of them.
My general rule is if you have the time to set up the camera for a shot ie table top review a DSLR does have better quality but if your doing a lot of running ie outdoors videos such as mine, You want the camcorder, picture is still very good but SO much easier to use and MUCH lighter
Buck Creek TV same here. If I’m hiking and want to quickly capture video of wildlife, or recording around a theme park etc. I want something I can whip out and use and put away, without messing with manual settings to get the perfect video. When I first got into making videos, I was already into photography and using a DSLR. While it was great for photography, for videos it wasn’t very good. The video quality wasn’t great and it was too impractical. So I bought a camcorder that was cheaper than the DSLR, and did a far better job. Plus it’s far more lightweight. I considered getting a GoPro but without a zoom and display it makes it useless for the videos I take the most. Now I just use a camcorder and my iPhone for scenic photos.
What almost anybody forget in these comparisons: flipscreens! You know, when you're recording yourself... I'm getting started in making some videos and my brain is smoking! I come from photo shooting with DSLRs and Mirrorless and even the video function of my Sony A6000 is more like there for better sounding ads than making serious videos. Did I mention flipscreens? Ah yeah, and no touchscreen for a quick focus change. And no mic in. Or out. Or level controls... That's the thing: the A6300 and A6500 as well as the A7 series have mic jacks & better audio control but also cost more than 1300 bucks. And in this range you're in territory of the prosumer camcorders. Not to mention that you don't need additional lenses. Aaand there's still a small thing called "battery life" (yes, on Sony Mirrorless cameras it's pretty bad)... The flip side: large sensor camcorders are like unicorns. And even the Sony 1" (AX100/CX900, AX700) is much smaller than MFT. And muuuch smaller than APS-C sensors. But you can cheat a little to get background blur: the DOF gets smaller with increasing focal length. So you simply have to be further away from the camera and zoom in to archive a decent amount of blur. But at a certain point it would become impractical if your camera is "miles" away... ;-) On this point DSLRs/Mirrorless simply rocks: drop the lens to F1.8 and get even on a 35mm (52,5mm equivalent) a crazy blur... What's also a serious contender: Panasonic GH4! Or now the GH5. This camera is MFT and is considered one of the best 4K videocameras for the prosumer. And it has a flipscreen... ^_^
Very touchy subject, honestly there really is not a clear answer on which is better or best for UA-cam videos. There are many variables that go into choosing a camera, type of video(s) to be made, amount of money the person has to spend, if that person will commit long term to making videos( one year with at least one video a week), lighting, yes lighting does factor into what type of camera one should buy, knowledge of ISO, aperture settings and shutter speed settings(as you mentioned), and we cannot forget the compression that UA-cam uses for the videos that are uploaded. I have seen footage taken with a smartphone that was just as good as a DSLR or camcorder, I have also seen footage that was taken with a DSLR that did not look all that great, pretty much it looked average at best. It does boil down to the individual and how well they use the camera, some people can make smartphone footage look fantastic. By the way you have forgotten about micro four thirds cameras, they have come along way and the quality has improved dramatically. Still excellent advice and video.
Can I please have some help? I've been trying to figure out what to get specifically for UA-cam videos. I've been using 1 g7x mk1 & 3 SJ4000 action cams for about 3-4 years now, and the canon does great in low light, but 1 of my sj4000's broke a few weeks ago. At first I thought I should get an action camera, then point and shoot, then dslr, now camcorder...basically, I have no idea. I would probably need 2 cameras. I have a g7x mk 1, which does really great in my low light setting even with just those 2 lights, BUTTTT, only records video for about 10-15 mins before stopping. The problem is that my setting is virtually pitch black, aside from the 2 Neewer 176 LED lights I use pointed on my drums. ^ I've researched and learned that action cams don't do well in low light and adding more light can even make a bad camera better, so I may be getting 2 more of those Neewer lights and have 1 on each corner of my drum rug. But what about point and shoots? Action Cameras? --------------------------------------------------- My lighting setup/scenario: * Black background all around my walls. * I use 2 Neewer 176 LED lights on myself and my drums with no living room lights on and the Neewers at around 10-20% brightness ^So it's basically pitch black aside from the LED lights. Things I don't care about: 1. Audio quality (I get that edited) 2. Stabilization - they'll be on boom mics with OnStage 1/4-20 tripod adapters. 3. 4k - though it'd be cool to shoot in that and slow down for super slo-mo, but I think I can do that with 1080, 60fps Things I care about: *Price: Range $300-$500 (I may need 2 cameras, so, yeah) ^^^Though I'm willing to spend a little more on a good DSLR/point and shoot if I have to and possibly just get 1 camera while I continue to use my g7x mk1. 1. Shoots great video quality in a low to no light studio. 2. Has a pretty good color profile in low light. 3. NO Grain/Noise in my low light setting. 4. Adjustable settings (WB, ISO, Exposure, etc) 5. Long record time - at least 45 mins (I don't need 5,6,7+ hours, but at least 45 mins, most likely an hour in 1 video) 6. Great battery life - I don't wanna have to interrupt my drumming to swap out batteries. ***Bonus if it can be plugged in charging while recording. My options: Action cams - DSLR/Point n shoot - Camcorder 1. GoPro Hero 5 Black - not performing well in my studio so far.. 2. Yi Lite - haven't gotten yet 3. Yi-4k - haven't gotten yet 4. SJ7 Star - haven't ordered. 5. Canon EOS M50 6. Canon EOS Rebel T4i 7. Canon EOS Rebel T5i 8. Canon EOS Rebel T6 9. Canon 70D (but pretty expensive for 1 camera) 10. Canon EOS 700D 11. Canon EOS Rebel SL2 12. Panasonic Lumix LX10 13. Panasonic Lumix G7 4k 14. Nikon D3200 24.2 MP 15. Sony 4k FDRAX33 16. Sony Handycam CX405 17. Canon Vixia HF R72 Camcorder I'd really appreciate some help with this. I'm a drummer, not a photographer lol This stuff is confusing. Thanks in advance.
I would say the audio on the DSLR is much lacking, even compared to the camcorder. I'm addicted to my Canon C100, which is based on a DSLR. Would like a few more lens for it though.
I know, I'm happy with my 80D, but it's always there in my mind, knowing that the sensor area of the full frame is 2.5X that of the crop frame, and it makes a big difference in low light, dynamic range, and a lot more flexibility bringing out a RAW image to a very nice JPEG.
hi there! I want to make videos standing, half body and full body. do you think a camcorder would do that? i hate blurred backgrounds and i want everything to be in focus all the time, but that narrow angle of the camcorder is what holds me from buying one. i own a canon 1100D, it won't autofocus, but that's not the main problem, the main problem is the white balance. i look orange or at best yellow. i want to look pink, like my skin is. any ideas which camera i should buy? thank you! i was thinking to first buy some wider lens for the dslr that i have, but i look so damn yellow in it (in white cool light!). buying YET another canon dslr to be YET yellow, is scary to me.
In my opinion the best camera for UA-cam videos is the camera you have and if you don't have one, the one you can afford. The quality of the content of the video is far more important than the quality of the camera than made the video.
That only makes sense if you're vlogginng or on the go. You get the best tool for the job. Most UA-cam videos aren't vlogs.
Use the right tool for the job. Use a camcorder for filming videos, that's what they're built for. If you want to take snapshots, go with a DSLR. Camcorders have a built-in fan to keep them from overheating. DSLR's don't have this built-in fan. People wonder why their camera gets hot after recording awhile. It's really simple. Use the right tool for the job. Why can't people seem to understand this?
The issue is consumer camcorders capture tons of video, but only for documentary level, and not at a very good or artistic level. Even low end DSLRs or mirrorless cameras can take amazing looking video, even if you have to work really hard to get it, often with setting all the settings yourself. In low light, if you want good footage on a consumer camcorder, forget about it.
+FixedGearForLife: I think like you so please bear with me when I say it's idealistic and doesn't work 100% of the time in reality. There's the architect/artist in us who wants the perfect tooling and parts, then there's the financier/manager who's always on a budget (if it's not money, it's time) and finally, there's the engineer/entrepreneur who likes to make do with what they have. (did you read the E-Myth? kinda like that)
I think we all begin as the artist and end up as the engineer with our projects and life. This video is a perfect illustration of that, because we can't always fork resources (guy #2) into the perfect tool (guy #1). Guy #3 finds a way.
Anedocte/story: I ran virtualization software (i.e., making several Operating Systems, e.g. Windows or Linux, run concurrently on a single physical machine) for *years* on a puny dual-core Mac Mini. The gist of it is that it was *vastly underpowered* and nowhere near enough. But the downside? instead of giving me instant response, it would take like a second or two or ten. In my case (learning IT and dev stuff), it was just not an issue (when you learn you read for an hour then click twice and read for another hour haha).
See what I mean? I could have forked $4K as I eventually did for a proper workstation, but I could not at the time (spending $20K for healthcare on horses lol). So 'engineer' in me found a way to make 'architect''s dream come true.
One method to get around the lack of bokeh is focal length. I learned this when I picked up photography. Focal length will affect how much bokeh (blurry background) there will be. The more you zoom in, the creamier the background. For a wide shot, the more that is in focus (depth of field). Obviously, if you're looking to vlog while holding the camera at arms length, don't expect that nice creamy background. But if you don't mind setting it on a tripod and step back a few feet, you can zoom in and achieve at least some bokeh. As for my camcorder, it has really good continuous auto-focus, face detection, 24fps - 60fps (for slow motion), records at 1080p and excel's in really good light. Mic jack, headphones, HDMI for TV or external monitor are more great options. I get SOME manual control with exposure compensation, manual-focus, manual audio controls, white balance, etc. It even has focus tracking. In the end, like fixedgearforlife said, use the right tool for the right job. My camcorder will be used for several video recordings.
Camcorder
I just started getting into vlogging last year so I've been kind of experimenting. Right now I use mostly my phone, because I can put in selfie mode so I can see myself properly in frame. This is something I can't do with DSLR. A lot of my vlogs have time lapse elements to them so I was using DSLR for that. Great quality, but it's kinda hard on the shutter to drive it so much. So I got a gopro which I use almost exclusively for time lapse. The quality is not as great but is acceptable. It's nice to be able to plop it somewhere, plug a battery bank into it, and it's good for the day + more. I do find the DSLR has the best quality video but it lacks in control. In video mode you do lose out on all the manual stuff like iso and aperture, and also lose out on auto focus. The biggest drawback though is the time limit.
With that said, I recently ordered a camcorder. It's a cheap consumer one, paid around $200, but feature wise I think it will be the best bet. Can go on a tripod unlike the phone and will have higher quality than the phone, has the front facing screen, and can record for a long time, and has auto focus. So I'll use that for vlogging and the other camera options for accessory video.
I would love to see a DSLR that also as a good video function though, since quality wise they do have the best image sensor and lens options. I'm sure they're out there, just mine (Nikon D7000) is not one of them.
It's just meant to have both a camcorder and a dslr and you can't take shortcuts with trying to just have one device to do pictures and videos
What's your opinion on action cams..e.g, GoPro, DJI Osmo, Panasonic and such? Could you do pro/con comparison btwn action cameras, camcorders & DSLRs?
My general rule is if you have the time to set up the camera for a shot ie table top review a DSLR does have better quality but if your doing a lot of running ie outdoors videos such as mine, You want the camcorder, picture is still very good but SO much easier to use and MUCH lighter
Buck Creek TV same here. If I’m hiking and want to quickly capture video of wildlife, or recording around a theme park etc. I want something I can whip out and use and put away, without messing with manual settings to get the perfect video.
When I first got into making videos, I was already into photography and using a DSLR. While it was great for photography, for videos it wasn’t very good. The video quality wasn’t great and it was too impractical. So I bought a camcorder that was cheaper than the DSLR, and did a far better job. Plus it’s far more lightweight. I considered getting a GoPro but without a zoom and display it makes it useless for the videos I take the most.
Now I just use a camcorder and my iPhone for scenic photos.
What almost anybody forget in these comparisons: flipscreens! You know, when you're recording yourself...
I'm getting started in making some videos and my brain is smoking! I come from photo shooting with DSLRs and Mirrorless and even the video function of my Sony A6000 is more like there for better sounding ads than making serious videos. Did I mention flipscreens? Ah yeah, and no touchscreen for a quick focus change. And no mic in. Or out. Or level controls...
That's the thing: the A6300 and A6500 as well as the A7 series have mic jacks & better audio control but also cost more than 1300 bucks. And in this range you're in territory of the prosumer camcorders. Not to mention that you don't need additional lenses. Aaand there's still a small thing called "battery life" (yes, on Sony Mirrorless cameras it's pretty bad)...
The flip side: large sensor camcorders are like unicorns. And even the Sony 1" (AX100/CX900, AX700) is much smaller than MFT. And muuuch smaller than APS-C sensors. But you can cheat a little to get background blur: the DOF gets smaller with increasing focal length. So you simply have to be further away from the camera and zoom in to archive a decent amount of blur. But at a certain point it would become impractical if your camera is "miles" away... ;-)
On this point DSLRs/Mirrorless simply rocks: drop the lens to F1.8 and get even on a 35mm (52,5mm equivalent) a crazy blur...
What's also a serious contender: Panasonic GH4! Or now the GH5. This camera is MFT and is considered one of the best 4K videocameras for the prosumer. And it has a flipscreen... ^_^
Great explanation
Thanks!
Very touchy subject, honestly there really is not a clear answer on which is better or best for UA-cam videos. There are many variables that go into choosing a camera, type of video(s) to be made, amount of money the person has to spend, if that person will commit long term to making videos( one year with at least one video a week), lighting, yes lighting does factor into what type of camera one should buy, knowledge of ISO, aperture settings and shutter speed settings(as you mentioned), and we cannot forget the compression that UA-cam uses for the videos that are uploaded. I have seen footage taken with a smartphone that was just as good as a DSLR or camcorder, I have also seen footage that was taken with a DSLR that did not look all that great, pretty much it looked average at best. It does boil down to the individual and how well they use the camera, some people can make smartphone footage look fantastic. By the way you have forgotten about micro four thirds cameras, they have come along way and the quality has improved dramatically. Still excellent advice and video.
Thanks Darren. Good lighting is critical!
Can I please have some help? I've been trying to figure out what to get specifically for UA-cam videos.
I've been using 1 g7x mk1 & 3 SJ4000 action cams for about 3-4 years now, and the canon does great in low light, but 1 of my sj4000's broke a few weeks ago.
At first I thought I should get an action camera, then point and shoot, then dslr, now camcorder...basically, I have no idea.
I would probably need 2 cameras. I have a g7x mk 1, which does really great in my low light setting even with just those 2 lights, BUTTTT, only records video for about 10-15 mins before stopping.
The problem is that my setting is virtually pitch black, aside from the 2 Neewer 176 LED lights I use pointed on my drums.
^ I've researched and learned that action cams don't do well in low light and adding more light can even make a bad camera better, so I may be getting 2 more of those Neewer lights and have 1 on each corner of my drum rug.
But what about point and shoots? Action Cameras?
---------------------------------------------------
My lighting setup/scenario:
* Black background all around my walls.
* I use 2 Neewer 176 LED lights on myself and my drums with no living room lights on and the Neewers at around 10-20% brightness
^So it's basically pitch black aside from the LED lights.
Things I don't care about:
1. Audio quality (I get that edited)
2. Stabilization - they'll be on boom mics with OnStage 1/4-20 tripod adapters.
3. 4k - though it'd be cool to shoot in that and slow down for super slo-mo, but I think I can do that with 1080, 60fps
Things I care about:
*Price: Range $300-$500 (I may need 2 cameras, so, yeah)
^^^Though I'm willing to spend a little more on a good DSLR/point and shoot if I have to and possibly just get 1 camera while I continue to use my g7x mk1.
1. Shoots great video quality in a low to no light studio.
2. Has a pretty good color profile in low light.
3. NO Grain/Noise in my low light setting.
4. Adjustable settings (WB, ISO, Exposure, etc)
5. Long record time - at least 45 mins (I don't need 5,6,7+ hours, but at least 45 mins, most likely an hour in 1 video)
6. Great battery life - I don't wanna have to interrupt my drumming to swap out batteries.
***Bonus if it can be plugged in charging while recording.
My options: Action cams - DSLR/Point n shoot - Camcorder
1. GoPro Hero 5 Black - not performing well in my studio so far..
2. Yi Lite - haven't gotten yet
3. Yi-4k - haven't gotten yet
4. SJ7 Star - haven't ordered.
5. Canon EOS M50
6. Canon EOS Rebel T4i
7. Canon EOS Rebel T5i
8. Canon EOS Rebel T6
9. Canon 70D (but pretty expensive for 1 camera)
10. Canon EOS 700D
11. Canon EOS Rebel SL2
12. Panasonic Lumix LX10
13. Panasonic Lumix G7 4k
14. Nikon D3200 24.2 MP
15. Sony 4k FDRAX33
16. Sony Handycam CX405
17. Canon Vixia HF R72 Camcorder
I'd really appreciate some help with this. I'm a drummer, not a photographer lol This stuff is confusing.
Thanks in advance.
I much prefer your shorter splash intro than your new longer one Bruce.
Duly noted
Another informative video Bruce,ever think of using a wireless Lav mic?
I would say the audio on the DSLR is much lacking, even compared to the camcorder. I'm addicted to my Canon C100, which is based on a DSLR. Would like a few more lens for it though.
Those C100's are still in demand today! Agree about the audio
Can you please shear the price of sony 4k camcorder?
I got one for $250 on sale
Keep up the good work, always a joy to see your videos.
Glad you like the video
Is that a Canon Rebel t6i or a t7i
T6i
@@TheBoomerConsumer i was planning to a t7i but it's expensive and my parents can't afford it so they opt me to buy a t6i instead
@@fumpaumpa2487 It's a great camera! Enjoy
@@TheBoomerConsumer thank you
Camcorder
DSLR's have come a long way in the auto focus game!
Thanks for sharing!
very good video !
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV. Get 2 of those bodies, and EF lenses, and you have the very best photography equipment on the planet.
But but I'm happy with my lowly 70D :)
I know, I'm happy with my 80D, but it's always there in my mind, knowing that the sensor area of the full frame is 2.5X that of the crop frame, and it makes a big difference in low light, dynamic range, and a lot more flexibility bringing out a RAW image to a very nice JPEG.
hi there! I want to make videos standing, half body and full body. do you think a camcorder would do that? i hate blurred backgrounds and i want everything to be in focus all the time, but that narrow angle of the camcorder is what holds me from buying one. i own a canon 1100D, it won't autofocus, but that's not the main problem, the main problem is the white balance. i look orange or at best yellow. i want to look pink, like my skin is. any ideas which camera i should buy? thank you! i was thinking to first buy some wider lens for the dslr that i have, but i look so damn yellow in it (in white cool light!). buying YET another canon dslr to be YET yellow, is scary to me.
Question are you using auto white balance, if so you need to get it manually using a white or grey card.
Ko