I remember when I first began my journey into the world of cinematography, one of the first questions or concerns I had was – what camera do I get? So I began my usual routine of deep research. I looked everywhere for what others were using or what others were thinking of using in the near future.

NOW, I get this question from others taking their first steps into videography and filmmaking. What camera should I get? I will be the first to admit, I am still always learning new things myself, and so I do not consider myself THE authority on filmmaking or cinematography by any stretch. I CAN, however, give my thoughts and advice on what has helped ME and what has helped my friends and colleagues. Here are a few tips to help you in your quest for your first camera to help tell those stories burning inside you.

• CONSISTENCY OF USE: One of the first things to consider is – how often am I going to be shooting throughout the year?

How much shooting you are planning on doing year in and year out will help you dial in the type of camera or level of camera you may require. If you’re planning on only shooting the occasional family vacation or event, then you may want to rethink purchasing that Canon C300.

• BUDGET: This is pretty much a no-brainer, but an important thing you have to consider. Based on how often I plan to use my future camera, what level of quality can I afford?

We are pretty lucky to live in a time where there are SO many camera options that are relatively economical in price. So, do you want to shoot your family vacations in 4K resolution? Or are you perfectly fine sticking with HD to shoot your doc? Do you need more manual settings and controls or will you have to look for a camera that forces you to use auto settings? In this day and age, you don’t have to necessarily sacrifice too much to be able to afford a decent camera. DSLRs are still workhorse cameras for many filmmakers and videographers, but are slowly being phased out it would seem. There are also a few 4K options around similar price points as current DSLRs as well, so maybe that is something you want to consider. Weigh out the many options you have based on your plans and your level of experience.

•  POST WORKFLOW: I have to admit, this wasn’t something that I really considered when purchasing MY first camera, but these days you need to ask – How will this camera affect my postproduction process?

When the DSLR was first introduced as a viable video option, the industry jumped on it rather quickly. However, there were some workflow issues that needed to be addressed before even throwing the clips into your NLE. Post Production workflow is something you should always think about throughout any point in your production, if you’re not already doing so. When choosing your camera, this is no different. As I’m sure you’re aware, all cameras are not equal with respect to… well, just about any aspect, but post workflow especially. If you are being drawn to a camera with 4K capabilities, really look into how your NLE and your storage are going to be affected. It may even affect your budget overall. One example I can give deals with more advanced cameras such as the RED Epic and the Arri Alexa. The DP from the amazing crime drama, The Killing, discussed his reasons behind choosing the Alexa over the Epic on the great podcast gocreativeshow.com (Check out link below). He reveals that choosing the Alexa ended up saving them money in the post workflow because the Epic was going to cost twice as much just in the amount of data alone. When doing your research, consider your own workflow.

•  MANUAL VS AUTO OPTIONS: This element usually follows your budget. Ask yourself – What level of camera am I comfortable with operating and purchasing?

The general thought is the cheaper the camera, the less professional the camera. This means you may not have as many manual options as one would hope. Then again, maybe this is better for you depending on your level of experience. Or, maybe you want something that you can grow into. In that case, you may want to find a camera that has the option of using some auto settings, but then you can switch them over to manual as your experience level grows.

•  VERSATILITY: Cameras aren’t cheap. Even the more “affordable” cameras still cost a pretty penny and you want your dollar go as far as possible. So, what camera will allow me to shoot in a variety of situations or environments?

This is really a question in versatility. You want your investment to last, but you also shouldn’t have to limit yourself to how you use it. Taking care of your new baby is obviously part of any new equipment purchase, but you still should be able to take your camera anywhere you need to. The physical structure of the camera or footprint is something to consider as well. Can it be easily shoulder mounted or do you want to limit yourself to a tripod? Weight is something to consider. Even temperature issues are a concern. How do YOU want to be able to use your future camera?

•  YOU HAVE TO LOVE IT: Seems obvious right? You would be surprised at how many times you may have purchased something too soon only to ask yourself – Do I REALLY love this thing?

You’re hopefully going to be using your new camera fairly often, maybe more. You have to love your camera and love using it. A new camera is an investment in your craft. Make sure the camera you use is something that helps fulfill and motivate your desire to continue shooting and learning. If you’re on the fence about a few cameras, then perhaps renting and trying out the cameras is something to think about – if you can swing the extra funds.

In the end, it’s about balance. Find something that will help your creativity and craft but won’t frustrate you to no-end thus causing you to struggle in your desire to create. Something that will continue to grow with you as your experience level grows. Something that will help you tell the stories that are burning inside you. There will be a time, however, when you will eventually grow out of that camera. Hopefully, by then, your experience level, your vision, and your stories, will be all you truly need to create.

As always, please feel free to leave questions or comments below or connect with me on Twitter and Facebook. I’m always happy to help in any way I can. Thank you.

GOCREATIVESHOW.COM – Podcast with The Killing DP, Gregory Middleton