You want to create stunning images and videos? There is a solution for this that doesn’t have to break the bank.
Sony Cameras Are The Best
Having used all the brands of cameras and researching for months on end…well years actually. I finally found the best setup for the money. Autofocusing, the ability to have the most range of flexibility, and spit out the highest quality RAW images and video footage. The best camera overall is the Sony A7IV. It has the most range of flexibility from my experience.
A full-frame mirrorless camera that builds on the success of its predecessor, the A7 III. With significant upgrades in resolution, autofocus, video capabilities, and overall usability, the A7 IV aims to cater to hybrid shooters who demand excellence in both still photography and video recording.
Key Features
Sensor and Image Quality
- 33-Megapixel Full-Frame Sensor: The A7 IV features a newly developed 33MP Exmor R CMOS sensor, offering higher resolution than the A7 III’s 24MP sensor. This increase in megapixels allows for greater detail and cropping flexibility without sacrificing image quality.
Video Capabilities
- 4K 60p Recording: The A7 IV offers 4K video recording at up to 60 frames per second, providing smooth and high-resolution footage. It uses 7K oversampling to deliver sharp and detailed 4K video.
- 10-bit 4:2:2 Color: For professional-grade color grading, the camera supports 10-bit 4:2:2 internal recording, giving videographers greater flexibility in post-production.
- Cinematic Look: New features like S-Cinetone, which is borrowed from Sony’s professional cinema line, help create a cinematic look straight out of the camera.
Build and Usability
- Improved Ergonomics: The A7 IV’s body has been refined for better grip and comfort, especially during extended shoots. The redesigned menu system is more intuitive, and the 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen LCD offers flexibility for shooting at various angles.
- Dual Card Slots: The camera includes dual card slots (one CFexpress Type A and one SD UHS-II), allowing for versatile and reliable storage options.
Connectivity and Workflow
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: The A7 IV features enhanced connectivity options, including faster Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for seamless image transfer and remote control.
- USB-C Power Delivery: USB-C PD allows for continuous power supply during long shooting sessions, ensuring you never run out of battery mid-shoot.
Lens Choice
The lens you choose will have a huge impact on how photos and videos look. If you want the best overall photography lens but still be able to shoot very cinematic style videos, then I would opt for the 50mm G-Master Sony Lens. I have quite a few reps in this lens and it has never dissapointed. However if you’re more of a zoom lens type of person but on a budget I would go with the Tamron 28-75 2.8 Lens. It wont be as good as the GM lens but it really beats the price by far.
Lighting Is Most Important
Regardless of the camera you choose to create for content or you’re just getting started as a hobby, lighting is the most important especially if you are shooting portraits or skin tones. I will show you easy ways you can ensure the editing goes smoothly, because if the lighting is bad, it becomes almost impossible to edit.
The Keylight is going to be the main thing to have a large source of light that is adjustable and provides the best exposure. Ive used those really cheap Amazon panel lights before and yes it will get the job done, but I don’t think you will be happy with the results. If you want to keep the budget under $500 but still have the best quality source of light providing even skin tones and perfect white balance. The Amaran 200d is going to be the best option from personal experience. If you want the best of the best, then go with the 600d which will be the brightest and most durable.
You will want to have a soft box with the key light of course. I use the Aputure Light Dome SE and theres not really much more to say about it but it provides soft light for the lighting unit.
Davinci Resolve
DaVinci Resolve Studio by Blackmagic Design is an all-in-one post-production suite that combines advanced video editing, color correction, visual effects, motion graphics, and audio post-production tools in a single application. Known for its robust non-linear editing capabilities, unparalleled color grading tools, and professional audio environment, it caters to both professionals and enthusiasts. With features like real-time collaboration, GPU acceleration, HDR grading, and seamless integration with third-party plug-ins and hardware control panels, DaVinci Resolve Studio offers the power and flexibility needed for high-quality content creation and efficient workflows across macOS, Windows, and Linux platforms.
I am very impressed with this software and I did not regret purchasing the studio version.
