If you’re an aspiring YouTuber looking to take your channel to the next level, you know how important the right equipment is. And nothing is more vital than your camera, which serves as the eyes of your channel, capturing every moment and detail you want to share with your audience.
Top 10 cameras for YouTube videos in 2021
First things first, let’s dive into our top 10 picks for the best cameras to use for YouTube videos in 2021. These cameras are all high-quality and offer a range of features that are great for capturing footage for your channel.
1. Sony A6400
The Sony A6400 is a great option for vloggers and YouTubers who like to shoot on the go. It offers fantastic autofocus, and its flip-up screen makes it easy to frame shots while recording.
2. Canon EOS M50 Mark II
The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is another excellent choice for YouTubers. It has a versatile lens system, and its 24.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor delivers high-quality images and videos.
3. Sony A7III
The A7III is a fantastic camera for YouTubers who want the best possible image quality. Its full-frame sensor produces amazing images and videos, and it offers great low-light performance.
4. Panasonic GH5
The Panasonic GH5 is a great option for YouTubers who need high-quality video capabilities. It has fantastic 4K video capabilities and offers a great range of customization options.
5. Fujifilm X-T4
The Fujifilm X-T4 is an excellent all-around camera that’s great for both photos and videos. Its 26.1-megapixel sensor produces high-quality images and videos, and it offers great image stabilization features.
6. Canon EOS R6
The Canon EOS R6 is a great choice for YouTubers who want a camera that can do it all. It offers fantastic image stabilization and autofocus, and its full-frame sensor produces high-quality images and videos.
7. Nikon Z6 II
The Nikon Z6 II is another all-around great camera that’s perfect for YouTubers. Its full-frame sensor produces high-quality images and videos, and it offers fantastic low-light performance.
8. Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K
The Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K is a great option for YouTubers who are interested in cinematic-quality footage. It offers fantastic 6K video capabilities and a range of advanced features.
9. Canon EOS 90D
The Canon EOS 90D is a great choice for YouTubers who need a camera that can shoot both photos and videos. Its crop sensor produces great images and videos, and its autofocus system is highly advanced.
10. GoPro HERO9 Black
If you’re looking for an action camera for your YouTube channel, the GoPro HERO9 Black is an excellent choice. It offers 5K video capabilities and a range of advanced features that are tailored specifically for action shots.
What to consider when choosing a camera for YouTube videos
Now that you’ve seen our top 10 picks, let’s delve into some of the factors you should consider when choosing the best camera for your YouTube channel. These factors can help guide your decision and ensure that you get the best quality footage possible.
Image and video quality
One of the most important considerations when choosing a camera for YouTube videos is image and video quality. You want a camera that can produce high-quality footage with sharp, clear images, and accurate color reproduction.
Autofocus capabilities
Another important factor to consider is autofocus capabilities. You want a camera that can quickly and accurately focus on your subject, no matter how fast they’re moving or how challenging the lighting conditions are.
Low-light performance
Low-light performance is also essential, especially if you plan on filming in dimly lit environments. Look for a camera that can perform well in low-light situations, with minimal noise and distortion.
Stabilization features
You also want to consider the stabilization features of the camera. Look for a camera that offers excellent image stabilization, so your footage stays steady, even if you’re moving around or filming in challenging conditions.
Camera features that are important for YouTube videos
Now that you know what to consider when choosing a camera, let’s look at some of the camera features that are most important for YouTube videos specifically. These features can help ensure that your footage is polished and professional-looking.
Flip-out screen
A flip-out screen is crucial for YouTube videos, as it allows you to see yourself while recording. This is especially important for vloggers or YouTubers who need to make sure they’re always in frame.
External microphone input
Using an external microphone can significantly improve the audio quality of your footage. Look for a camera that offers an external microphone input, so you can easily connect a high-quality microphone for superior sound.
Playback and editing features
Playback and editing features can also make a big difference in your workflow for YouTube videos. Look for a camera that has fast and easy playback options, so you can quickly review footage and make necessary edits.
How much should you budget for a camera for YouTube videos?
Now that you know what to look for in a camera, you might be wondering how much you should budget. The truth is, there’s no set budget for a good camera, as it really depends on your needs and goals.
That being said, you can generally expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $3000 for a high-quality camera that’s suitable for YouTube videos. Keep in mind that you’ll need to factor in the cost of lenses and other accessories, which can add up quickly.
DSLR vs mirrorless cameras: which is better for YouTube videos?
Another common question when it comes to choosing a camera for YouTube videos is whether you should go with a DSLR or a mirrorless camera. The truth is, both types of cameras can be great for YouTube videos, and the choice really depends on your needs and preferences.
DSLR cameras tend to be more traditional and offer an optical viewfinder, which can be great for some users. Mirrorless cameras tend to be more compact and lightweight, making them a great option for vlogging and shooting on the go. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference and the specific features you need for your YouTube channel.
The benefits of using a dedicated camera for YouTube videos
Now that you know what to look for and how much to budget, you might be wondering why you should use a dedicated camera for YouTube videos at all. The truth is, using a high-quality camera can significantly improve the overall quality of your footage, making it more professional-looking and engaging for your audience.
Additionally, a dedicated camera offers more advanced features and customization options than your smartphone or other consumer-grade cameras. You can adjust settings like ISO, aperture, and shutter speed for more precise control over your footage, and you can use interchangeable lenses to achieve different looks and styles.
Best entry-level cameras for YouTube beginners
If you’re new to YouTube and just starting out, you might not want to invest a lot of money in a high-end camera right away. Fortunately, there are plenty of great entry-level cameras that are perfect for beginners.
Some great options include the Canon EOS M50, the Sony A6000, and the Panasonic Lumix G7. These cameras are all affordable and offer great image and video quality, making them perfect for starting your YouTube journey.
High-end cameras for professional YouTubers
If you’re a professional YouTuber or are looking to make a career out of your channel, you might want to invest in a high-end camera that offers all the features and capabilities you need.
Some great high-end cameras include the Sony A7S III, the Canon EOS R5, and the Nikon Z7 II. These cameras offer fantastic image and video quality, advanced autofocus capabilities, and a range of other features that are perfect for professionals.
Best compact cameras for vlogging on the go
If you plan on vlogging or shooting on the go, a compact camera is the perfect choice. These cameras are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry with you wherever you go, and offer great image and video quality.
Some of the best compact cameras for vlogging include the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III, the Sony RX100 VII, and the DJI Pocket 2. These cameras are all fantastic options that offer great image stabilization and advanced features for vloggers on the go.
How to properly set up your camera for YouTube videos
Now that you’ve chosen the perfect camera for your YouTube channel, it’s important to know how to set it up properly. Proper setup can significantly improve the quality of your footage and ensure that your videos look polished and professional.
First, make sure you understand all the camera settings and how to adjust them for different shooting situations. Pay attention to settings like ISO, aperture, and shutter speed, as well as autofocus and image stabilization options.
You should also invest in a high-quality tripod, which can help keep your camera steady and prevent shaky footage. And don’t forget about lighting – using proper lighting can make a big difference in the overall quality of your footage.
Lenses to consider when shooting YouTube videos
When it comes to lenses for YouTube videos, there are a few things to consider. First, you want to make sure you have the right focal length for your intended shots. For example, a wide-angle lens is great for vlogging, while a telephoto lens is better for capturing details from a distance.
You also want to consider the aperture of your lens, which affects the depth of field and how blurry the background of your shot will be. A wider aperture (with a lower f-stop number) will produce a shallower depth of field and a more blurred background.
Some great lenses to consider include the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM for portrait shots, the Sony 16-35mm f/4 for wide-angle vlogging, and the Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 for zoom shots and capturing details from a distance.
Camera accessories that can improve your YouTube video quality
In addition to your camera and lens, there are a few accessories that can help improve the quality of your YouTube videos. Some great options include external microphones, tripods, lighting, and neutral density filters.
External microphones can significantly improve the audio quality of your footage, especially if you’re filming in a noisy environment or need to capture clear dialogue. A tripod can help keep your camera steady and prevent shaky footage, while proper lighting can make a big difference in the overall quality of your footage. Neutral density filters can also be useful for controlling exposure in challenging lighting conditions.
Tips and tricks to get the best results from your camera when filming YouTube videos
Finally, here are some tips and tricks to help you get the best results from your camera when filming YouTube videos:
– Use a dedicated camera instead of your smartphone for better image and video quality.
– Invest in a high-quality microphone for superior audio quality.
– Pay attention to lighting and make sure you have enough light for your shots.
– Use a tripod or other stabilizing accessory to keep your footage steady.
– Adjust settings like ISO, aperture, and shutter speed based on the shooting situation.
By following these tips and choosing the right camera and accessories, you can create amazing YouTube videos that are engaging, professional-looking, and sure to impress your audience.