The World of Cinema Cameras

Every time you see any sort of video that you find beautiful, you wonder what was used to shoot it. Gear is the first thing that comes to mind when we are inspired to recreate the look of a video we liked. The gold standard in video gear is the cinema camera. Anyone shooting video dreams of making movie-quality work that expresses their full vision.

There are of course some differences between cinema cameras and photo cameras that also shoot video. How a cinema camera differs from DSLRs and camcorders is fundamental to their appeal. The most glaring difference, and reason for their purchase, is that a cinema camera allows you full control over the look of your scene. Where other cameras are limited in their ability to capture light and colors, a cinema camera provides total control allowing you to create your vision with hardly any limits. 

With their video codecs, pre-formatted sensors, and on-camera attachment connections, everything you need to build a fully professional set-up is right there on the camera. Some cinema cameras are even compatible with DSLR lenses, making them versatile tools, even for videographers with only DSLR experience. You can buy professional attachments to complete your setup, or you can purchase a cinema camera as a full pro kit and start creating. That is the biggest difference you receive upon upgrading to a cinema camera: full professional control.

There are plenty of great cinema cameras on the market. Each has its own unique functions, separating it from the others. A cinema camera is a serious investment, so it’s worth it to take the time to read about each one to decide which is best for you. Here is a list of a few that we offer, with a quick overview of their best features:

The Panasonic Lumix BS1H Box Style Cinema Camera is an ultra-compact full frame cinema camera. A cool anamorphic mode allows for the “cinematic” look, while in-body heat management provides unlimited recording for extra-long shoots.

The Canon C100 Mark II is a 1080p cinema camera. A super 35 sensor gives video the classic film ratio while the EF mount makes it compatible with the vast array of Canon EF lenses.

The Canon EOS C200 Cinema Camera with EVF is another Super 35 camera. Dual DiG!C 6 processors make 4K recording smooth and the Cinema RAW Light gives video high dynamic range and amazing colors. EF lenses are also compatible.

The Canon EOS C700 is an EF mount monster. This camera can shoot 4K Super 35 at 72 fps, 2K Super 16 at 168fps, and full frame at 60 fps. Internal ND filters allow for creative shooting without switching filters and triple DiG!C DV 5 processors make video buttery smooth.

The Sony FX3 has been a popular camera since its release. Cinema quality in a small size, this camera is great for videographers who like to move with their camera. With excellent stabilization, shaky footage is easily corrected in post. Everything you love about Sony video is now available in a cinema camera.

The Sony FX6. Don’t let the pictures fool you. This camera is just under 2 lbs. Amazing bokeh and full frame 4K make for the best tool a videographer could ask for. A built-in ND filter and compatibility with E-mount lenses bring your current lens collection to the cinema world.

The Sony PXW-FS7 II XDCAM Super 35 Camera brings the classic cinema look to the digital world. E-mount lenses, an integrated ND filter, and a hand grip make this camera a step up in the cinema realm.

The Sony PXW-FX9 XDCAM 6K Full-frame Camera is a welcome addition to any setup. High dynamic range in 4K at 60 fps unleashes the power of your E-mount lenses. The 7-stop ND filter allows for utmost creativity, all shot on super-fast dual XQD memory cards.

Cinema cameras are really for serious videographers who want to create special work. The addition of a cinema camera to your arsenal will separate you from your competition, and allow you to really show your vision. With a cinema camera, you have control over every detail of your frame. Anything you can conceive for the look of your video can be achieved with a cinema camera. If you’re ever felt frustrated with the lack of control you’ve had with a DSLR or camcorder, then a cinema camera will be a worthy investment.

A cinema camera is for the top level of professional videography. Whether you’re creating work for clients or you’re creating original work to release and earn a profit, the cinema camera is a tool to help you achieve your dreams. If you have the ambition, then the cinema camera is definitely for you.

*The Canon C200, Sony FX6, & Sony PXW-FX9 can be purchased as kits