So you want to vlog? Grabbing best camera for vlogging (video blogging, if you will) allows you to broadcast those ideas of yours with push of a button, giving the internet world an inside look into your thoughts, feelings, beliefs and creative ability. Ever since YouTube came about, we’ve had the fortunate opportunity for everybody getting a chance to share their lives not only on social media but in video series’ as well. We’ve even seen people make millions of dollars as pro vloggers on their channels! Today we wanted to refine our search to the best video cameras for vlogging to help you get started to make those video blog ideas into a reality. Let’s see what we’ve found.
Choosing the Best Vlogging Camera
When it comes to vlogging, we have endless possibilities on what type of content you’ll be producing, which environments you’ll be in, how you want to shoot your different angles, and so forth. The first and foremost factor to keep in mind is your camera type. Although our guide on video cameras highlights some major types of cameras for vlogs, this article today will pin-point the exact factors and picks you’ll need for getting those vlog ideas up and running. Here are the major video camera types:
- DSLR cameras: As of now the most popular type of digital camera as well as video camera in the market, digital single-lens reflex cameras are huge. What’s best about these is not only their quality of clips, but the ability to have interchangeable lenses to give you some great customization options. They’re a little big in size as compared to others, but if you’ll be stationary or plan on holding them still while you’re out and about, these are most preferred. They offer both camera and video options.
- Mirrorless cameras: Almost as popular as DSLRs, these are preferred for those who will be vlogging of moving objects since their auto-focus systems are above all else. They’re also great when it comes to overall video quality, but are typically a bit more expensive than DSLRs.
- Point-and-shoot cameras: Preferred for those who travel, are on-the-go or really anybody who doesn’t want to hassle with a chunky camera, point-and-shoots are often called “compact cameras” due to their design. Although they used to be the staple-point for the word ‘digital camera’, they’re still around for a reason since they offer some great quality of both images as well as video clips, not to mention they’re a bit cheaper than others in the market.
- Camcorders: These are becoming a bit more scarce as technology grows, but there are still some super high-quality camcorders out there to check out for vlogging. These are the typical ‘video cameras’ we all used to associate with back in the day (typically a strap on your hand so they’re great for versatility and moving around).
Now that we’ve figured out what type of camera you’re looking for, what’s next is very important: what is your budget? This is huge for video cameras for vlogging considering prices range from a few hundred bucks to thousands. The higher you go, the better the video camera and quality of your clips of course (sometimes, at least), however if your intended use isn’t too crazy or professional, you may not have to spend an arm and a leg (it may just be excessive and you can always upgrade later down the road when you’re a millionaire vlogger). You may also however
What environment will you be vlogging in? Are you only filming for YouTube inside of your home to talk to your viewers indoors, or are you going outside to film some skits and sketches? Keep in mind the type(s) of environments you plan on filming in to make sure your camera has the right capabilities. If you plan on being indoors, don’t be too concerned with lighting capabilities of the camera. However, if you’re planning on being outside often, keep that in mind.
Once you’ve chosen your vlogging camera, you’ll have to look into how to be a vlogger (if you need some more guidance, we like our guide we linked to). Although this topic is pretty subjective (since everybody has their own style and creativity ways), it’s something you’re going to have to learn as you go (especially if you’re just starting out). Aside from learning how to put together your vlogs, edit them, upload them, etc., we’re talking production-wise: different camera angles, cutting in and out, audio function, etc.
Don’t forget some extra camera gear you may need. This will be needed to be factored into not only your budget but what you’re going to want at hand when it comes time to get filming (if you only get your camera and plan on filming that day, you may be disappointed since you’ll have no where to put the camera or have the necessary lighting to get going!). For extra gear, we mean tripods, carrying bags (if you plan on moving around with your vlog camera), lighting kits, a computer, or even video editing software for some post-production tweaks.
The Best Cameras for Vlogging
Canon EOS Rebel T5
Now that we’ve gone over the necessary factors to take into consideration when choosing the best camera for vlogging, here’s our top pick to begin our list. When entering the world of vlogging, the best way to make an impression in our opinion is to have a video camera that will help to capture your moments and information in the best possible light. We can’t tell you how many times we had to get the lighting correct when we first started to film videos. Enter in the Canon EOS Rebel T5, the 18 megapixel DSLR video camera that comes equipped with in our opinion everything a vlogger will need for the best video resolution, such as reducing red-eye, stabilizing images, automatic brightness adjustment, and facial recognition.
Viewing live recordings of your HD movies and being able to go back and review them is made simplistic by the 3” LCD screen, and with the Creative Auto option the user is given full reign to customize their video however they would prefer. Built for still images as well and compatible with Mac and PC computers, the Rebel T5 is one of the best vlog cameras available without breaking the bank. If you wanted an immediate answer, here’s our pick for you.
Sony Alpha a6000
In order to be considered as one of the best cameras for vlogging, you must have a camera that takes the guesswork out of following your movements and catching every detail of your recording, so that all you have to focus on is the content. In this regard, the Sony Alpha a6000 is able to accomplish just that. The ease of this mirrorless camera is meant for all users, with a mode dial that encapsulates quality features and a LCD screen that can tilt up to 3 inches for a unique perspective of your footage. The Fast Hybrid AutoFocus of the a6000 is equipped with multiple features ranging from a burst mode with 11 frames per second (fps), 179 phase detection points, and accurate tracking for movements and stills in both photos and videos.
The Near Field Communication (NFC) is the a great feature for vloggers in the world, taking the hassle out of transferring photos and allowing the user to directly upload photos or videos remotely, so you aren’t missing out on any vlogging opportunities. Since its mirrorless, its notorious for it’s AF system, so if you plan on making some skits where there will be a lot of movement, this a great camera for vlogs. Otherwise, it’s still extremely solid even if you’ll be stationary. The size is also great for traveling or switching environments easily.
Nikon D3300
This was the first DSLR we ever bought to vlog with. Reasonably priced and a simplistic “starter camera” for those just beginning their foray into the vlogging world, the Nikon D3300 is equipped with some solid specifications and numbers considering the low price as well as some Wi-Fi features to make all photos and videos instantly accessible. You can edit and add effects after a shot is taken using a wireless adapter connected to your smart phone, making it easy to update your followers on a regular basis. An Image Stabilization lens offers the guarantee of focus on you and your content without the concern of residual blur, and with 24.2 Megapixels and 1080p Full HD footage, this camera has the ability to shoot five fps with high-resolution clarity at all angles.
Panoramic Mode lets you move across various scenes for wide-angle shots that are normally difficult to capture, and multiple filters and effects create a customized feel unique to your vlogging personality, essential when making an impact in the world of video blogging. This is easily one of the best vlog cameras on the market if you didn’t want to spend an arm and a leg and get going on those beautiful video blogs once you open the box.
Sony a7S
If you’re looking for something advanced to really elevate your video quality weren’t feeling the previous picks, check this thing out. Designed with the precision of professional quality needed for the experienced vloggers, the Sony a7s is a higher-priced camera as compared to the others that offers high-tech features, making it one of the best vlogging video cameras available if your budget allows. A full-frame 35mm camera with 4K video, this video camera enhances the sensitivity of all light exposures to capture the minute details of all images, essential in those vlogs regarding tutorials or other subjects requiring precision focus.
Spatial object detection lets this camera have enhanced auto focus, creating less work for the vlogger in worrying about where the camera is focusing and giving more time to focus on the content being projected. This is further complimented by the processing engine, which lowers outside noise that detracts from the subject and focuses in on the object in the frame. Complete with Intelligent Auto Focus that makes the camera do most of the work for you, the Sony a7s is an ideal solution for all vlogging needs. It does come with a price as you can see, but well worth it if you’re OK with that price-tag — you’re getting what you pay for.
Fujifilm X-T10
If the previous pick was a bit too expensive but you still wanted something high-end for your video blogs, this one is super clean. Known for their esteemed presence in the camera world, the Fujifilm X-T10 is another one of the best video cameras for vlogging that gives maximum clarity in every recorded image. Touting an impressive AutoFocus feature, this camera uses a high-resolution sensor that enhances unfiltered light and brings clarity to even the smallest of images. It is even equipped with the ability to track at wide angles and high-speed, making movements within a recording a non-issue for coherence.
In addition, with over eight different image colors to choose from, vloggers can add their own personal flair to their shots and develop their own brand of videos. Dials located on the top of the X-T10 make it user-friendly in its simplicity, and with a design that is lightweight and easy to travel with, this camera is ideal for vloggers of all capacities. Just keep in mind you’ll have to spend a few more bucks (it really depends on which route you take) for a lens since it’s mostly sold as the body-only.
Blackmagic Design Production Camera
With an EF lens mount, a touchscreen display, and a remote control for starting and stopping at a distance, the Blackmagic Production Camera is the best high-end video camera for vlogging for professionals seeking to enhance their craft. Equipped with 1080 HD and 4K resolution recording, this camera has a sensor that has 12 stops of dynamic range, creating more post-production flexibility in determining lighting and color options. Shooting from a distance with a need to remain in front of the camera?
The included remote control allows you to set up your camera and then begin and end your recording with the click of a button, all the while having the option to operate your camera without having to be directly next to it. Able to connect to computers through standard connections for editing, the Design Production Camera is for the professional vloggers looking to expand their options. It’s quite a beautiful piece of technology here.
Canon EOS 6D
One of the highest priced DSLR cameras we will feature, the Canon EOS 6D is the professional grade video camera meant for videographers at any level, making it one of the best vlogging video cameras on the market even for starters if you’re looking for a long-term investment. Highly reviewed, the processor contains a strong noise reduction system when you are shooting a video, and allows you to have detailed photos or videos in low-light situations thanks to the anti-reflective design.
The camera allows you to shoot up to 4.5 frames per second (fps) in those moments where you are capturing still images, and with 20.2 Megapixels, the DIGIC 5+ Image Processor on this camera allows for high-resolution images with each recording. The full HD recording option of the EOS 6D even allows you to manually control the overall exposure of each recording due in part to the sensor that encompasses the full frame, giving the vlogger creativity in their content and a touch of personal flair. With WiFi capability for uploading on-the-go, this is the best camera for every vlogger looking to make an impact and stand out from the rest.
Sony A77 II
Designed with 12 fps and image stabilization, yet another one of the best vlogging cameras to make this list is the Sony A77 II. With an LCD monitor that can be opened to tilt three different ways, the user is able to capture unique angles and perspectives for their vlog while on the move, thanks to the phase detection aspect of the video recording that tracks every movement of the subject at hand. Four dimensions of focus also help to enhance the image quality and clarity, ranging from wide, predictive, and fast tracking of the content.
Plus, WiFi capability makes it easy to transfer your recordings to other devices for editing purposes, giving a vlogger a creative space wherever they go with the option to upload their content at any moment. A relatively stable price with high-quality features, the Sony A77 II is a strong option for vloggers everywhere as long as your budget is located in the higher-end.
Canon PowerShot S120
Any travel vloggers out there? High performance in low light situations, able to capture wide angles, and included image stabilization are just some of the features included in the Canon PowerShot S120 video camera. This point-and-shoot camera is able to produce up to 60 fps and the 1080p video recorder gives the user multiple options of recording modes, as well as focusing in on a variety of colors to capture the perfect light (works for both during the day and at night). In a world of high-paced lifestyles, this camera makes it easy to develop a highlight reel for a vlogger’s followers, making sure their content is seen but fits a time period accessible to all viewers.
In addition, outside noise is reduced to focus in on the subject you are recording, making it easy to spend your time outside without a worry of losing the information you are sending out to the masses. Built in Wifi makes it easy to make your content available quickly, making the Canon Power Shot S120 one of the best cameras for vlogs, especially if you’re traveling or on-the-go.
Canon XC10
To top off our list, here’s one for the pros. Higher on the budget scale than many others featured on this list, the Canon XC10 is meant for those with an eye for videography and a desire for quality upgrades and features to enhance their vlogging experience. Lightweight and portable for the vloggers who like to be out-and-about, this 12 Megapixel camera has a 10x zoom lens that lets you capture recordings and stills both near and far, and stabilizes the images to make sure you have precise clarity in all of your recordings (a necessity in the vlogosphere).
It is equipped with multiple recording options to make sure you capture your footage in a way unique to you and the content you are producing, with slow motion and fast recording a feature available with the updated image processor. These features are meant to assist the natural eye of the vlogger, making it the last of our list but certainly not the least by any means.
