4K Video Cameras for a Beginner

[TS_01]

Hi all,

I'm new to this community and was hoping I could get some help with an upcoming event.

I have an event next week in the UK where I will need to record a continuous schedule of speakers for around 2-3 hours (most likely 3 hours).

I currently have a Sony A7 II and unfortunately this a) only records up to 30 mins and b) cannot be plugged into power and continue to record. As I've been meaning to purchase a video/camcorder does anyone have any suggestions that would fit the below requirements?

• Is easy to navigate the menu and export footage
• Supports recording up to 3 hours
• Records in 4K
• Can be plugged into power and continue to be operated
• Has the option to plug in an external microphone - either 3.5mm or XLR (phantom power)
• Can be mounted to a supported tripod
• Budget approx. £2,000

Any suggestions would be great. Thank you in advance.

Kind Regards,

Tom

 

[alcelc]

I shall think about a Panasonic GH5 mk-II or GH6 the sort of professional class hybrid mirrorless.

You might need a dummy battery & USB power bank for the long shooting. GH6 can also output the footage to certain SSD hard drive for big footage too.

 

[SmilerGrogan]

Do you plan to do a lot of recording of seminars and events and such? Then a 1/3” or 1” video camera from Sony, Panasonic, or Canon would be the thing. That’s what they’re made for.

 

[DirkPeh]

I would stay with Sony and buy one of their more recent APS-c cameras. The quality in 4k is very convincing and you are already used to their menues.

Esp. if there is not much camera movement implied and you film from a steady position on a tripod, a Sony will deliver quality results. I use an A6400 to film gigs on a Tripod and like the results a lot. It never overheated even not when running for 100 minutes and longer, works great with a power bank or usb power plug.

The new A6700 has even more to offer when it comes to video.

Not a huge Sony fan, but when it comes to video their cams are quite convincing, esp. when you are more of a stills photographer and are not that experienced with video.

 

[Beautiful scenery]

If you’re a beginner looking to get into videography, investing in a 4K video camera can be a great way to start. 4K cameras offer high resolution and detail, making them ideal for capturing stunning footage. However, with so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best for beginners.

1. Sony Alpha a6400

The Sony Alpha a6400 is a mirrorless camera that offers stunning capabilities. It features a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor, fast autofocus, and a . Additionally, it has built-in Wi-Fi and , making it easy to share your footage.

2. Panasonic Lumix GH5

The Panasonic Lumix GH5 is a mirrorless camera that offers professional-grade video capabilities. It features a 20.3-megapixel sensor, 5-axis in-body image stabilization, and a high-resolution electronic viewfinder. Additionally, it has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as a durable weather-sealed design.

3. Canon EOS M50 Mark II

The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a mirrorless camera that offers impressive 4K video capabilities. It features a 24.1-megapixel APS-C sensor, fast autofocus, and a vari-angle touchscreen display. Additionally, it has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as a compact and lightweight design.

4. Pocket Cinema Camera 4K

The Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K is a compact and powerful camera that offers professional-grade video capabilities. It features a high-resolution 4/3 sensor, 13 stops of , and a large 5-inch touchscreen display. Additionally, it has built-in SD card recording and .

5. Fujifilm X-T4

The Fujifilm X-T4 is a mirrorless camera that offers impressive video capabilities. It features a 26.1-megapixel APS-C sensor, in-body image stabilization, and a vari-angle touchscreen display. Additionally, it has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as a durable weather-sealed design.

When choosing a 4K video camera, it’s important to consider your specific needs and budget. These cameras offer a range of features and capabilities, so take the time to research and compare different models to find the one that’s right for you. With a 4K camera in hand, you’ll be able to capture stunning footage and take your to the next level.

 

[leorimkus]

I might suggest that your are approaching to this from the wrong side.

Unless you absolutely can't control the camera during the event - just stop and restart recording during small pauses and join files later on. You'll loose a second or two of footage - that's not relevant in most cases. Dealing with several smaller files will also be easier than with single enormous file of 3 hours of 4k.

As for power - I'm sure you can find power adapters for A7ii in form of dummy battery.