Best Video Equipment for Documenting Dynamic Musical Performances

Top 10 Best Video Cameras to Shoot Music Videos (4K/HD) 2024

Max Wales

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Music videos are experiencing a resurgence in recent years, and they’ve started to show up all over the internet as a result. If you’ve been thinking about producing your music videos, you may be looking for the best camera for music videos to make it a reality.

But, what traits do you need to consider in a music video camera? Video quality , frame rate, and cost should all be considered if you’re trying to seek out the best camera to shoot music videos. In this article, we’re going to look at our ten favorite choices for video cameras, along with our top picks. We’ll also answer some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) about music video cameras as well.

• Part 1: 10 Best Cameras for Music Videos
• Part 2: Best Open Source 2D Animation Software
• Part 3: Music Video Camera FAQs

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Part 1: 10 Best Cameras for Music Videos

1. Sony Alpha a6500 Mirrorless Camera

Price: $799.99 MSRP

Weighing less than a pound without a lens (and not much more if you use one), the Sony A6500 is all about providing high quality without making you spend an arm and a leg. Reviewed by DPReview , Sony Alpha a6500 is an action-packed camera. The magnesium alloy body is strong and sturdy, and its ergonomic design makes it simple for you to film and move around as you do so.

Specifications:

• AF acquisition with Wide 425 AF points (.05 secs).
• Advanced processing Exmor Sensor with 4.2 MP APS-C
• 5 internal image stabilization options
• Silent Shooting
• Long Exposure with 1+ sec shutter speed
• 269 frames at 24.2mp (11 FPS shooting)
• AF/AE Tracking
• 4k Movie Options Available

Pros: The Sony Alpha a6500 Mirrorless Camera is very easy to hold, so filming is simple. It has a heavy-duty body and is compatible with multiple lens options. Also, it is more affordable than similar options.

2. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

Price: $3,299.00 MSRP

With options for both still and 4k video, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is the latest in a line of top-end cameras series of Canon that allow for both amateurs and experts to get the best video quality possible. The Mark IV has multiple operational enhancements which make it easy for you to make your ideas into realities!

Specifications:

• CMOS sensor in a 3.4 MP full-frame
• It can shoot in any light within an ISO range up to 32000.
• JPEG video shot in 4k Motion (resolution: 4096 x 2160) at either 30p or 24p
• Frame grabs of 4k images.
• Includes Full HD and HD options
• Dual pixel CMOS AF
• Touch screen LCD module with dozens of options.

Pros: This particular camera is very easy to understand and get used to; shutter is soft and quiet (which works well if you’re shooting in nature). The Tracking and Metering technology in the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is some of the best at this price range.

3. Blackmagic Design URSA Mini 4K Digital Cinema

Price: $2,995.00 MSRP

Among 4K video cameras , the Blackmagic Design URSA Mini 4K Digital Cinema camera has been designed to record high-end, cinema-quality video with its high-end 4k global shutter sensor. The balanced body is easy to hold and perfect for any filmmaker. Also designed with an EF mount that can mount the most popular lenses, you can get any sort of “look” you’re seeking from your films.

Specifications :

• Super-35mm CMOS Sensor
• 4000 x 2160 resolution for up to 60p
• Raw Recording for both compressed and uncompressed video
• 444 + 422 Recording in Pro-Res
• 12G-SDI Output and multiple input options.

Pros: The Blackmagic Design URSA Mini 4K Digital Cinema is super easy to hold and transport, which makes it a top choice for many who are looking to do fast-action shots for music videos. It’s great for filmmakers of any experience level, heavy-duty build for any situation, and has high-quality output for all video content that it produces.

4. PANASONIC LUMIX ZS200 4K Digital Camera

Price: $799.99 MSRP

If you’ve been looking for a travel size camera that you can use for those on-the-go shots in your music videos, the Panasonic Lumix ZS200 is a great choice. It doubles both as a camera and a camcorder, providing you with versatility and ease of use.

Specifications:

• 1-inch 20.1-megapixel MOS sensor, complete with a zoom of 15x and an Optical Image Stabilizer
• 2,330K-dot viewfinder and 4k video technology.
• In-camera creative controls.
• USB Charging and Wi-Fi Options
• Fisheye Lens

Pros: The Lumix ZS200 is one of the most affordable options that offer this level of portability, while also providing high-quality images. It’s straightforward to adjust and use, and it has an attached lens (with customizability options that are easy to work out).

5. Canon EOS 60D

Price: $999.99 MSRP

The Canon EOS 60D is designed to be a powerhouse for creatives. It’s one of the most advanced models of Canon camera/camcorders out there, with multiple advanced features and technologies that make it simple to use and sort out. The DIGIC 4 Image processor allows you to get the most precise picture every time you film.

Specifications:

• Continuous shooting at 5.3 frames a second
• 1080p HD video; manual controls allow for customizable experience
• 18 MP CMOS sensor (APS-C)
• LCD screen (3 inches; 1.04 million dots)
• Flash control (wireless)
• 9 Point AF system

Pros: Heavy-duty cameras are great if you’re planning on traveling with them a lot, and the Canon EOS 60D provides that security. Many people find this to be a camera that is easy to get used to. It’s also incredibly customizable for video, audio, and still pictures, allowing you to get the best results every time that you take it out in the field.

6. Nikon D3300 DSLR

Price: $599.99 MSRP

If you’re looking to put together a music video that has a lifelike quality to it, then you will find that the Nikon D3300 is a great way to ensure that it happens. With a full zoom lens, this compact option is great for any aspiring videographer that wants to have fun while also getting the best quality video on the go.

Specifications:

• 5 FPS Continuous Shooting
• 921,000 dots on 3 inch LCD screen
• 3D tracking of 11 AF points
• Optical viewfinder
• 2 MP CMOS DX sensor

Pros: Budding videographers love the multiple options and ease of use that this particular camcorder provides. Many families have found that it’s a good, safe option for teens and young adults that may be dipping their toes into videography for the first time. Since it’s so popular for new videographers, there are dozens of tutorials that can help you to learn how to use its settings as effectively and quickly as possible.

7. Canon VIXIA HF G20 Camcorder

Price: $899.99 MSRP

No matter how much experience you have in videography, you will find that the Canon VIXIA HF G20 Camcorder is a perfect match. Its design is simple, but it rivals any professional camcorders with its 10x Video Lens and 8-bladed Iris. The sensors inside are some of the best you can find in any camcorder, which means that your music videos will look professional every single time.

Specifications:

• 32 GB internal memory allows for 12 hours of HD recording.
• 2 additional memory card slots
• 10x HD video lens with 8 blade Iris
• 5 inch LCD screen with touch capability
• HD CMOS Sensor with low light performance upgrades
• Super-range optical image stabilization
• 9 built-in camera filters

Pros: This particular camcorder has both line in and mic in settings, which make it a good option for any live streaming you may want to try during the music video filming process. This design also prevents the distortion of audio for music videos. The VIXIA HF G20 is also a lightweight camcorder, which allows for the most versatility in regards to motion and catching the perfect shot. It also has in-camera controls for color gradation and other settings.

8. JVC GY-HM250U Ultra 4K

Price: $1999.99 MSRP

Seeking out a full-featured 4k HD camcorder? The JVC GY-HM250U Ultra 4K is a good option, complete with all of the tools you need to get a professional-quality video every time. It has multiple options for streaming and shooting, a 12x optical zoom lens, and various memory card slots so that you can get the best results every time that you film for your music video.

Specifications:

• Includes Wi-Fi capabilities with an internal modem
• 4 MP 4K UHD camcorder
• FHD live stream capabilities
• 12x F1.2 to 3.5 zoom lens
• CMOS image sensor with 12.4 million pixels
• Titling solutions for both lower-third and fullscreen

Pros: One of the best features of the GY-HM250U is that it’s super easy to add overlays into any of your videos directly from the camera; this is great for streaming and recording. It also connects to Wi-Fi quickly and offers top-end low light performance. This is one of the most affordable camcorders, especially when compared to options with similar features.

9. Canon EOS Rebel T6 Digital SLR Camera

Price: $399.99 MSRP

For many aspiring videographers, the Canon EOS Rebel T6 Digital SLR Camera is the standard when they’re looking to get the very best picture in all of their shots. With 18 megapixels and a variety of options available, it’s simple for you to adjust settings so that you can get exactly the look and feel that you’d like to have. Internal mic is of high quality, but you can also use ports to provide external options.

Specifications:

• 18 MP Lens with 3:2 aspect ratio
• CMOS Sensor
• JPEG and RAW Movie output
• Wi-Fi Capability
• Rear screen LCD
• 1 Second Shutter Lag includes self-timer options
• Includes multiple audio ports and memory card ports

Pros: This particular model of camera is straightforward to use, mainly because it switches quickly between camera and camcorder modes. It boasts a stable battery life so you can always use it out on the go, and you can get extra batteries for a low cost. Multiple audio and visual settings so you can get great-sounding music videos.

10. Nikon D7000 DSLR

Price: $799.99 MSRP

Videography focuses a lot on what it is that you’re filming, and the best music videos are developed when you use a high-resolution camera to make it happen. The Nikon D7000 DSLR focuses on providing highly detailed videos and pictures every time that you hit the button, making it simple for you to get great results. Low noise shutter and audio input options allow for top quality audio, as well.

Specifications:

• High speed, 6 frames per second continuous shooting (100 shots)
• 2 MP resolution
• DX CMOS sensor
• 108p HD movies
• Autofocus is always working for both video and
• ISO range: 100 to 6400; can be expanded.

Pros: This is one of the best options on the market if you’re looking for a budget camera/camcorder combo. It boasts both high-quality video and audio and offers additional ports for enhanced audio options. It’s a straightforward option to understand how to use effectively, as well.

Part 2: Our Favorite Music Videos Cameras

There are all sorts of cameras on the market, but some stand out as the best. Out of the ten cameras that we explored above, we think that these 2 are the best cameras to shoot music videos.

1. PANASONIC LUMIX ZS200

No matter which website you go to, you will find that the Lumix ZS200 is often listed among the best of what is available on the market today (in 2021, when this article was written).

Panasonic has been a brand long sought out by camera enthusiasts, and this one is no different. With state of the art 4k technology , this stands out as one of the best 4k cameras for music videos, hands down.

2. Blackmagic Design Digital Cinema Camera

If you’re seeking out the best camera for music videos and you have a bigger budget, then we think that the Blackmagic Design Digital Cinema Camera is your top choice in this regard.

This high-end camera is going to be pricey for you, but its mini handheld design makes it simple for you to get all of the best shots. This 4k camera is going to give you the best look for your videos every time.

Part 3: Music Video Camera FAQs

1. What is the best 4k camera for music videos?

If you want a specific 4k camcorder, then the Panasonic HC-X1 4K UHD Camcorder is your best bet. This camera supports 4k, HD, UHD, FHD, and a variety of other options. It’s larger than many of the cameras and camcorders that are listed here, but it is specially designed for this sort of work. You can also simultaneously record to two different memory cards; it has 2 audio XLRs and multiple other ports for optimum audiovisual recording.

2. What equipment is needed for a music video?

If you’re looking to put together a kit so that you can have a great music video, then you want to be sure that you have the right equipment. Here’s a quick list.

• The right camera(s)
• Tripods for camera
• A camera light
• 3 way lighting (at the very least; you can use multiple lighting setups as well)
• Shotgun microphones
• Boom mic setup with pole and shock mount
• Audio cables and recorder(s)
• XLR cables (audio cables)
• Headphones (so you can adjust sound levels more accurately)
• Extra batteries, memory cards, and other equipment, so your gear doesn’t die while you’re filming.

You may also need other materials if you’re working in a particular environment. Sit down with your crew and work out what is essential and what you may not need in terms of your equipment.

3. What is the best lens for shooting music videos?

The Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens is one of the best lenses on the market for shooting music videos. It has an UltraSonic motor, 135mm focal length, and a focus distance of 3 feet. You can also get it with a polarizer or a UV Protection Filter.

The speed and versatility of this lens allows you to get some beautiful video, and it works with most models of camera that we’ve discussed in this article.

4. How long does it take to make a music video?

It depends on exactly what it is that you are doing in the video. Most of the time, artists have some sort of idea as to what their main concept will be in the video, and who they want to work with. Otherwise, the record label will be in charge of such things. In general, this depends on the song being recorded and what sort of budget is being worked with.

On average, it takes around two weeks to get everything recorded and ready to go; it could take longer on the front end and back end when it comes to organizing and scheduling.

Max Wales

Max Wales is a writer and a lover of all things video.

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