If you’re itching to make your first film then we want you to get started. It can be easy to think up a plethora of excuses when it comes to executing your ideas, and finding the best camera is one of the oldest in the book. But what if you can’t afford the best?
The reality is that most filmmakers start off using whatever they can get their hands on. Award-winning director Edgar Wright didn’t even own one when he started filming, opting to steal a VHS recorder from school whenever he got the chance.
The point is, there’s no perfect time to start filmmaking, so start saving and pick up the most affordable camera you can and get going!
Here are a few of our favourite camera options for filmmakers on a budget:
1. Your camera phone
The great thing about using a camera phone is that you probably already have one or at least know someone who does. They are small, compact and easy to use so we think there is a case to be made for filming your amateur projects on one of these.
Another benefit is that you can buy affordable accessories such as car mounts and tripods to make shots more interesting. With that said, camera phones are generally pretty poor in low light and the quality is never going to match professional video cameras.
Mobile Motion recommends Sony Xperia 1 and Experia 5 phones for those looking to get started because of Sony’s Cinema Pro app:
“The Cinema Pro app gives you extensive manual control, without the need for 3rd party apps. This means no worrying whether FiLMiC Pro will provide manual controls without glitches. The Sony app lets you shoot at the wide 21:9 ratio with a range of manual settings such as frame rate, white balance, lens size, shutter speed and resolution.”
2. Panasonic Lumix G85
With fast autofocus, mirrorless interchangeable lens and flip LCD screen this budget-friendly option has been crowned a firm favourite by many new filmmakers. Not only is it small and durable but it also has the added bonus of shutter shock reduction and minimal shutter sound.
However it does struggle in low light and has a poor battery life, so remember to carry extras with you at all times.
3. Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 4K
For epic 4k imagery, this bad-boy is the obvious choice. Again, this has a short battery life but the full size 3/4 sensor and 4096 x 2160 resolution make up for it.
If you want to try this one out then you can rent it from us at zero risk. Just pay per day and have fun!
4. Fujifilm X-T3
With a new back-illuminated X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor using a colour filter array to boost a 26.1 MP resolution, this camera is a great all-rounder. It will allow you to capture super clean images and track moving subjects with ease.
5. Nikon Z 6
This full-frame mirrorless camera is known for its hardwearing qualities which makes it a good investment if you don’t want to have to repurchase after minor scrapes. It features in-body stabilisation, 4K full pixel readout and slow-motion settings so you’ll be creating festival-worthy features in no time.
Still confused? Give us a call on 0141 363 2432 and we’ll explain the cameras we have on-hand for you to rent and help you figure out the best kit for your project!
