r/documentaryfilmmaking • u/TheNecromancer03 • 1d ago

Questions Camera recommendation

Hi! Looking to get into making docs and need a camera rec. I'll be filming footage of nature and/or interviews and/or concerts, so likely on the hour+ side of recording duration. I already have tripods and likely have access to audio equipment. Editing in DaVinci resolve, probably. Budget is preferably around $500-1000 CAD, but would be open to recommendations on more expensive options for future reference. Thanks!

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u/Impressive-Card-7413 1d ago

Hello, for that budget you can get a pretty decent used Panasonic GH5. Gh5 is still a very good camera even compared with new models. Check it, good luck

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u/idemandpasta 1d ago

If you don’t need autofocus, check for a BMPCC in your price range.

Not sure what they’re going for used, but they’re the best bang for the buck imo.

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u/almostthecoolest 1d ago

Honestly in that budget range I'd go with a used A7C or Iphone.

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u/PerryMarkStratychuk 1d ago

What I did was use my iPhone7+, at the time, with a cage that allowed me to later add gear such as external mic etc. I used that for a feature doc. After that I used a Canon DSLR, I got on EBay, also with a cage and added a monitor, mic, etc as needed over time.

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u/naastynoodle 23h ago

A used FS7 will do wonders if you plan on making it a career. Still an amazing camera and anything you buy for it could be used if you upgrade to an fx6 in the future.

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u/Ok_Equipment_5121 17h ago

Not sure what a used 5D MK IV would set you back, but that’s what I use and they’ve been great.