Great Video Cameras for Every Level of Filmmaking

“Which camera should I buy?” That’s a question filmmakers ask all the time. The answer isn’t as simple as pointing to the most expensive model. It’s about what’s right for your shooting style, budget, and the stories you want to tell.

I’ve used everything—from iPhones to fully rigged cinema setups. What I’ve learned? Great footage isn’t always about the sticker price. It’s about using the tool that fits your project and workflow.

Let’s break down the best video cameras across different tiers, from hobbyists to blockbuster filmmakers.

A quick note - I've used some specific brands in this article but as in most cases, there are multiple options at each of these price points. I'm only using specific cameras like the Canon RP as a reference point for price and quality.

Best Budget Video Camera? Your Phone!

Remember: you’ve already got a capable camera in your pocket. We've all seen national-level commercials shot entirely on iPhones—surrounded by pro lighting, sure, but shot on phones nonetheless.

Apps like FiLMiC Pro give you control over frame rate, exposure, and focus. Absolutely the smartest starting point for anyone just stepping into video.

What video marketing means to your business will determine what type of content you film. Read our post to learn more.

GoPro as a Video Camera?

GoPros are still unbeatable for anyone doing action, sports, or adventure videos. I’ve dropped them in lakes, mounted them on windshields—they still worked. Under $1,000, waterproof and indestructible. Great for everyday storytelling.

If you want lightweight versatility for travel or social content, try a Canon RP or another R-series mirrorless. Capable of both clean video and crisp stills, though pro-level audio requires add-ons.

Event Video Production and Solopreneurs

Enter the Canon R5C—a hybrid cinema camera that’s still light enough for one person to handle. Autofocus, affordable, compact, and ideal for solo work such as weddings or small commercial shoots. It doesn’t need a crew, just a vision.

On the other hand, the Blackmagic Pyxis offers cinema-grade image quality—perfect when you’ve got a two-person setup. It lacks autofocus, but the image payoff is worth it if you can focus the camera properly.

Commercial Video Production

Cameras like the Canon C400 are true workhorses. Built-in ND filters, pro audio support, and monitoring options make them great for both solo and crew shoots.

Sony FX series shines when you’re often filming in low-light environments—it delivers bright, clean footage where others struggle.

Then there’s the RED V‑Raptor, which brings global shutter capabilities, stunning color, and nearly cinematic recognition. Perfect for action-heavy shoots where crisp, artifact-free motion is a must: Red V-Raptor Super 35.

Check out our homepage if you're interested in corporate video production.

Best Cinema Cameras in Hollywood

This is the big league: the RED V‑Raptor XL VistaVision 8K with a massive sensor capturing up to 8K footage with 17+ stops of dynamic range. It’s built for cinematic fidelity and studio flexibility. We have several projects that this camera was used for and we can certainly attest to the image quality, although maybe not so much to the user interface and boot times: Check out the review.

For productions that demand the finest image quality, there’s cinema cameras like the Arri Alexa 65—a 65 mm digital cinema camera delivering unmatched realism, clarity, and cinematic depth. It’s no surprise this was used in films like The Revenant and Mission: Impossible: Check out the review..

Recommended Picks Guide

Final Thought

The best camera for you isn’t about prestige—it’s about what suits your stories and your shooting style. If you’re hiking, your iPhone or a GoPro might be the perfect fit. If you’re shooting a narrative short with a small team, a Blackmagic or R5C might be your best ally. For large-scale productions, RED or Arri tools shine.

It’s how you use the tool that matters most. So pick smart, shoot with intention, and tell the story you came to tell.

Want to start your first project? Check out this post and learn how to make a promotional video!