Camcorders

Camcorders

Camcorders are excellent for filmmaking for the simple reason that they are specifically optimised for video, inside and out. A good filmmaking camcorder will be designed to be operated handheld, with an ergonomic build, and often with built-in stabilisation to make it easier for the videographer to capture run-and-gun footage.

It’s worth thinking about which features you are most likely to need, as this will help you hone in on the right professional video camera for you. For instance, if you are looking to shoot slow-motion footage, you’ll need a camcorder that can capture footage at high frame rates. It’s also worth thinking about what resolutions you need – 4K is the generally accepted minimum standard currently. An 8K video camera can be useful not just for future-proofing, but also for being able to losslessly crop into your footage for shot variation.

Camcorder brands

Just as in photography, Canon has been a big player in digital video cameras and camcorders for several years now. Canon camcorders run the gamut across the user base, including everything from entry-level models like the Canon LEGRIA HF R88 HD to high-end professional tools like the Canon EOS C300 Mark III.

Panasonic specialises in offering 4K camcorders on a budget, with models like the Panasonic HC-VX980 offering 4K video for a highly competitive price. It is also well-regarded in the enthusiast and professional spaces, with highly capable pro models like the Panasonic AU-EVA1 5.7K Compact Cinema Camera designed for high-end projects.

Sony has a fantastic reputation in the pro video industry for its high-end camcorders like the Sony PXW-FX9, which pairs all the standard camcorder features with a beautifully big full-frame sensor. Its lower-end camcorders still benefit from loads of great features – like the Sony FDR-AX53 4K, which can shoot 4K and sports Sony’s Balanced Optical SteadyShot image stabilization system.

Hugely popular in the filmmaking community, Blackmagic specialises in making cinema quality affordable for everyone. Its range of cinema camcorders are designed to be operated anywhere, and capable of keeping up with even the most demanding of filmmaking projects. From the extra-portable Blackmagic Micro Cinema Camera to the comprehensively specced URSA Mini Pro G2, the Blackmagic range has something for all filmmakers.

JVC caters to the semi-pro and pro ends of the camcorder space, with even its HD models packed full of features. Large lens apertures, bright CMOS sensors, pro video codecs and powerful optical zoom lenses – you get it all with a JVC camcorder like the GY-HC550 Connected Cam 4K.

What to look for when buying a camcorder

Different camcorders offer different features, and there are a few things worth looking out for before you buy.

Resolution: How much resolution do you need in your videos? 4K and UHD 4K (ultra HD) are the standard in professional industries at the moment, but if you’re only shooting at home, you may not need that much.

Wi-Fi: Connectivity can be hugely handy for quickly downloading videos, or for remote control of functions and settings via a smartphone.

LCD screen: You may be doing a lot of your composing with the LCD screen, so it makes sense to check out the LCD screen specs of the video recorder you’re buying. How big is the screen, how high is its resolution, and is it articulated, i.e. can it be moved around to different angles?

Night vision: Some camcorders offer night vision functionality, which you may or may not need for your projects.

Live streaming: A clean HDMI out allows you to live stream footage as you’re recording it. Optical zoom lens: How long is the zoom range? Having a greater optical zoom range will give you real shooting versatility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is “camcorder” short for?

Camcorder is a term so common you may not have thought about what it means before – it actually is a portmanteau of “camera recorder”. The term was first popularised in 1983, when Sony released the Betacam.

Do camcorders still use tapes?

No – these days, they will record to digital media. Generally an SD card will do the job, though more advanced camcorders may also have slots for different, faster types of memory card.

Are camcorders waterproof?

No – while some have limited weatherproofing, if you’re looking for a waterproof camera then action cameras are a much better bet.

What are the best tripods for a camcorder?

It’s best to get a dedicated video tripod, as these will generally come with specialised video heads that allow for smooth panning and other camera movements.

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