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Best DSLR Camera for Filmmaking
When filmmakers want to make the jump from beginner to professional, they upgrade their compact or point-and-shoot cameras to DSLRs. So which is the best DSLR for filmmaking at the moment?
This is because they are the pinnacle of digital camera tech.
Not only do DSLRs have impressive image quality and speed, but their builds are also insightful and a nice transition from basic cameras to more bespoke and complex designs.
So you’re serious about filmmaking, you’ll need a DSLR. So what’s the issue? While the image quality is retained across the board on all DSLRs, each DSLR is built for a specific purpose.
As a result, most filmmakers appear lost when searching for a DSLR to buy. This is why we have compiled a review for you if you’re interested in getting a filmmaking DSLR camera.
We will list a couple of our favorite recommendations; however, regardless of your needs or your budget, you’ll get a DSLR camera for your filmmaking needs.
| Best DSLR Camera for Filmmaking | Lens Mount | Image Resolution | Video Resolution | Display Size | Speed | Dimensions | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canon EOS-1DX Mark III | EF | 20.1 MP | 4K (2160p) | 3.2 inches | 60fps | 9.5 x 7.9 x 7.8 inches | 3.17 pounds |
| Canon EOS 800D | EF or EF-S | 24.2 MP | 4K (2160p) | 3.0 inches | 60fps | 5.16 × 3.94 × 2.99 inches | 1.07 pounds |
| Nikon D5600 | Nikon F | 24.2 MP | Full HD (1080p) | 3.2 inches | 60fps | 4.9 x 2.8 x 3.8 inches | 1.02 pounds |
| Nikon D810 | EF | 36.3 MP | Full HD (1080p) | 3.2 inches | 60fps | 5.75 x 3.21 x 4.84 inches | 1.00 pounds |
| Pentax K-70 | Pentax K | 24.2 MP | Full HD (1080p) | 3 inches | 6fps | 2.9 x 4.8 x 3.6 inches | 2.00 pounds |
1. Canon EOS-1D X Mark III
The EOS-1D X Mark III from Canon is a high-end camera for filmmakers looking for top-notch performance in a DSLR.
With this camera, Canon is targeting professional cinematographers and videographers. So what is Cano offering?
For starters, you can pick from a wide variety of lenses thanks t the EF lens mount. What’s more, the EOS-1D X Mark III can capture footage in 4K (2160p), and it can record footage on the main storage and a secondary memory card.
Key Specifications
- Lens Mount: EF
- Image Resolution: 20.1 Megapixels
- Video Resolution: 4K (2160p)
- Display Size: 3.2 inches
- Shooting Speed: 60fps
- Dimensions: 9.5 x 7.9 x 7.8 inches
- Weight: 3.17 pounds
2. Canon EOS 800D
The EOS 800D houses an 18-155mm lens for impressive image rendering, while the camera itself has all the features of a fully-fledged DSLR.
What’s more, it has a hardy body and a powerful set of customizable specs that allow you to take this camera virtually anywhere.
About the physical design, the EOS 800D has a massive 3-inch touch screen with spontaneous settings control, live view monitoring, and it utilizes a vari-angle design to allow for simpler viewing from high and low working angles.
Key Specifications
- Lens Mount: EF or EF-S
- Image Resolution: 24.2 Megapixels
- Video Resolution: 4K (2160p)
- Display Size: 3.0 inches
- Shooting Speed: 60fps
- Dimensions: 5.16 × 3.94 × 2.99 inches
- Weight: 1.07 pounds
3. Nikon D5600
Since the onset of mirrorless cameras, DSLRs have been getting a run for their money. Fortunately, that has made a couple of brands design impressive DSLRs at competitive prices.
It’s for this reason that Nikon has excelled with the D5600.
With the D5600, Nikon is probably offering the benchmark for Full HD (1080p). This is because the D5600 can capture footage in Full HD (1080p) which is mighty impressive.
Key Specifications
- Lens Mount: Nikon F
- Image Resolution: 24.2 Megapixels
- Video Resolution: Full HD (1080p)
- Display Size: 3.2 inches
- Shooting Speed: 60fps
- Dimensions: 4.9 x 2.8 x 3.8 inches
- Weight: 1.02 pounds
4. Nikon D810
The D810 is a full-frame DSLR camera which means its image sensor is as big as the frame. This camera is recommended for more advanced and expert filmmakers and photographers.
It has a whopping 36.3 megapixels, and it captures footage in Full HD (1080p) at 60 fps.
Note its video files are uncompressed, giving you raw video data to allow for finer editing and more ingenuity when it comes to capturing the perfect photo.
Key Specifications
- Lens Mount: EF
- Image Resolution: 36.3 Megapixels
- Video Resolution: Full HD (1080p)
- Display Size: 3.2 inches
- Shooting Speed: 60fps
- Dimensions: 5.75 x 3.21 x 4.84 inches
- Weight: 1.00 pounds
5. Pentax K-70
The K-70 from Pentax is a compact body DSLR camera ideal for outdoor shooting. Its impressive imaging power and weather-resistant performance make it dependable even in the most demanding shooting conditions.
The K-70 will capture natural colors in all settings, including blue skies, gentle rains, overcast days, and starry nights.
What’s more, it brings you discoveries and experiences while assisting you to master outdoor cinematography and videography.
Key Specifications
- Lens Mount: Pentax K
- Image Resolution: 24.2 Megapixels
- Video Resolution: Full HD (1080p)
- Display Size: 3.0 inches
- Shooting Speed: 6fps
- Dimensions: 2.9 x 4.8 x 3.6 inches
- Weight: 2.00 pounds
Final Thought
So that’s our comprehensive guide to the best DSLRs for filmmaking. Remember, the best DSLR is the one that suits your needs and budget.
Therefore, as long as the camera has enough accessory options, you will have no problem finding the ideal DSLR camera for you.
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