Which Camera for Filmmaking?

Not everyone can afford an Arri or Red. If you want to get into video, Sony is typically the go to brand for their reliability. But there are a few other cameras that could have the image quality or inspiration you’re actually looking for: Blackmagic Cinema Camera 6k, Sigma FP, Fujifilm XH2s

The question I get most, which camera is should I buy? Which is better? All cameras have their strengths and weaknesses and depending on your project, you should choose one over another. The blackmagic is extremely newbie friendly. The menus are best in class, easy to use, have a graciously large monitor that is better than Small HD and a fantastic BRAW codec. However, the battery is abysmal and the lowlight performance is unbelievably noisy. BRAW color sciences is also overrated, compared to these two are the worst with over saturated greens. The Sigma FP has a poor inaccurate monitoring, cumbersome large file sizes and requires rigging to utilize its full potential. It requires a lot of patience as it lacks a lot of quality of life functionality but it’s potential is incredible because of it's benefits. It has the highest quality codec 4k 12bit CDNG, realistic texture and depth, incredible lowlight performance rivaling Sony, is small and light, not to mention it can take photos too. 

Cameras are quite good these days and you can create great images with any of them, so what your decision should come down to is what you don’t want from a camera. If you’re an image quality snob, then I can give you some recommendations. The BMCC6kFF is sharper and requires more light. The Sigma FP is softer and more contrasty. Fujifilm XH2s has great dynamic range and color but flat dimensionality. If you can always control your lighting, the BMCC6kFF has a high image ceiling that can resemble Arri. I’d suggest pairing it with softer glass. The Sigma FP has more dynamic range than people give it credit for and can handle any lighting condition with the most accurate color science on the market and incredible texture and dimensionality. Fujifilm has one of the best color sciences for film emulation and impressive dynamic range. Although I would say the Sigma FP looks more cinematic and substantial, some may still prefer the Blackmagic. I will say that with Sigma, everything will look good with minimal grades whereas the Blackmagic you will often need good lighting or a heavy pushed look to make things look good. If you prefer gentler visuals resembling Arri, BMCC6kFF. If you prefer heavier visuals with depth, Sigma FP. If you want nostalgic or trendy visuals, go for the Fujifilm.

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