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Best Camera for Music Videos 2024 (15 HD, 4K and 8K Options)

Author
Last Update: January 8, 2024

You can’t have a hit on the pop charts without a good music video. That’s why you need the best camera for music videos if you want to make it in the music world. These days, music is an audiovisual experience. The music and the visuals go together as one.

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Panasonic Lumix DC-S5

Panasonic Lumix DC-S5

The S5 is the ultimate hybrid camera. It delivers incredible results for photos and video. It’s a media creator’s dream.

Music videos are more important than ever. YouTube has changed the way people enjoy music. Now videos need to capture the fans’ attention just as much as the songs.

Music videos are a creative outlet for visual artists. They’re a great way to explore ideas and work with other creatives. That’s why you need a music video camera that can make your vision a reality.

Man with guitar being filmed by camera with monitor
© Kal Visuals

What is the Best Camera for Music Videos?

To produce an awesome music video you need the best music video camera. Most modern cameras have a video mode. But that doesn’t mean any camera is right for shooting music videos. You need something with the right specs and features.

Video quality is the main specification you need to look at. Don’t settle for anything less than 4K. Any quality lower than that will leave your music video looking dated. Sensor resolution is also important. Don’t forget, you’ll need some still photos for promotion.

You also need to consider the type of music videos you want to make. Are they stylized videos with props and effects? Do you want something more low-key and intimate? Or are you a music streamer making videos at home? The type of video will influence your camera decision.

If you need more information about specs and features for music videos, skip to the buyer’s guide at the bottom.

Our Top Choice
Panasonic Lumix DC-S5
Panasonic Lumix DC-S5
  • Fantastic 4K at 60 fps
  • 5-axis image stabilization for photos and videos
  • Super-slow-mo Full HD footage at 180 fps
  • It's the best camera for time-lapse photography
Best for Beginners
Sony ZV-1
Sony ZV-1
  • Vlogging features make it easy to film by yourself
  • Excellent 4K video quality
  • Ports for external sound recording
Best for Pros
Canon EOS R5
Canon EOS R5
  • Outstanding cinema-quality 8K video
  • Powerful 45 MP image sensor
  • Built-in image stabilization and strong low-light performance
Best Micro Four Thirds
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
  • Compact and weather-sealed body
  • Image stabilization for photos and videos
  • 4K video in 30 fps and a 30 fps burst
Best Sony Mirrorless
Sony a7 IV
Sony a7 IV
  • Powerful 33 MP image sensor
  • 4K video at 60 fps
  • One of the best AF systems on the market
Highly Recommended
Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5
Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5
  • 4K video at 50 or 60 fps
  • Excellent image quality and dynamic range from the MFT sensor
  • Lumix 4K Photo mode for rapid burst
Best APS-C DSLR
Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D
Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D
  • Camera can be used as a webcam for livestreaming
  • Excellent image and video quality
  • Face and eye detection AF system
Best Compact Choice
Sony RX100 VII
Sony RX100 VII
  • Pocket-sized but powerful
  • 4K video with a 30 fps frame rate
  • 90 fps burst rate
Best Fuji Mirrorless
Fujifilm X-T30 II
Fujifilm X-T30 II
  • Stylish film simulation filters for photos and videos
  • Fantastic 4K video footage
  • 240 fps frame rate for super-slow-mo in Full HD
Best Nikon DSLR
Nikon D500
Nikon D500
  • 4K video with ports for external sound recording
  • Wide ISO range for low light shooting
  • Fast and accurate AF with subject tracking
Best for YouTube
Sony ZV-E10
Sony ZV-E10
  • 4K video at 30 fps and slow-motion options in FHD
  • Excellent AF system for streamers
  • Rotating LCD screen and ports for external sound equipment
Best Nikon Mirrorless
Nikon Z6 II
Nikon Z6 II
  • 4K video at 60 fps
  • Built-in 4K time-lapse feature
  • Nikon's best AF system to date
Best Canon Mirrorless
Canon EOS M50 Mark II
Canon EOS M50 Mark II
  • Produces excellent photos and videos
  • Accurate AF system with face tracking
  • Camera can be used for livestreaming online

15 Best Cameras for Music Videos in Detail

A great music video needs a great videographer. And a great videographer needs the best camera for music videos. There isn’t one way to make a music video. But no matter which style you want to follow, we have the camera for you.

All the cameras on our list produce fantastic video footage. And they all have extra features that make them ideal for shooting music videos. Whether it’s pop, country, or metal, you’re in the right place.

1. Panasonic Lumix S5

Best Camera for Music Videos Overall

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Panasonic Lumix DC-S5
Camera Type
MirrorlessMirrorless
Megapixels
24.2 MP
Sensor Format
Full FrameFull Frame
Sensor Size
23.8 x 35.6 mm
Frame Rate
7 fps
Autofocus Points
225
Pros
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Image stabilization to prevent camera shake
  • Dual memory card slots
  • Great 4K video capabilities
Cons
  • Slow-burst shooting
  • Short battery life
  • Poor autofocus within camera class
  • Limited L-mount lens range

Panasonic Lumix has a reputation for making excellent hybrid cameras. And the Panasonic Lumix S5 is their best example. It’s everything a hybrid camera should be. It takes stunning photographs. And it also delivers incredible video results. The S5 is the ultimate all-in-one camera. And that makes it the best camera for music videos.

The S5 has a full frame sensor with a resolution of 24.2 MP. That isn’t groundbreaking for a full frame mirrorless camera. But the image quality is excellent. The larger sensor gives you intricate detail and a wide dynamic range.

Video specs are the most important thing if you want to shoot music videos. And the Lumix S5 delivers. The video quality is 4K and the footage looks fantastic. You get a selection of frame rates, including 60 fps at 4K. Not many cameras deliver such quality with a super-smooth frame rate. You also get 180 fps in Full HD for superb slow-motion footage. That’ll look great in your next music video.

The camera has 5-axis image stabilization built in. It reduces camera shake and motion blur. It gives you more options with exposure settings. And it gives you more opportunities to shoot handheld. You don’t need to rely on a gimbal or tripod. The class-leading autofocus has face and eye detection. And it tracks your subjects even when they move. It’s ideal for energetic videos.

The Lumix S5 is also the best camera for time-lapse. It has a built-in interval timer for precise time-lapse videos. That’s another creative feature you can use in music videos.

2. Sony ZV-1

Best Beginner Camera for Music Videos

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Sony ZV-1
Camera Type
CompactCompact
Megapixels
20 MP
Sensor Format
1"1"
Sensor Size
13.2 x 8.8 mm
Frame Rate
24 fps
Autofocus Points
315
Pros
  • Compact body
  • Excellent eye-recognition AF
  • Rotating screen and viewfinder
  • Has a forward directional mic
  • Additional external mic port
Cons
  • Poor image stabilization
  • Disappointing battery life with video
  • Fixed lens is not a wide-angle
  • Not all Mac operating systems support webcam software

The Sony ZV-1 is the best camera for shooting music videos if you’re a beginner. If you’re just starting your music career, you probably won’t have a big budget. And you won’t have a crew to make your music video. The Sony ZV-1 gives you everything you need to do it yourself. It’s a video specialist in the compact camera range. And it’s ideal for making music videos.

The Sony ZV-1 gives you 4K video. That’s Ultra HD video in a compact camera. You also have slow-motion modes with 40x slower footage. There’s a built-in time-lapse function. And you can use the camera for livestreaming. That makes it ideal if you’re an online music teacher or streamer.

The rotating screen is helpful if you’re working alone. It allows you to see yourself when filming. And the camera also has built-in directional microphones. The sound muffler is included too. While most videos have the song dubbed over the top, they often include environmental sounds. The autofocus also has face detection and tracking. You’ll stay in focus even if you move a lot.

The image sensor gives you 20.1 MP resolution for stills. And the fixed lens has an f/1.8 max aperture for better low-light performance. It’ll give you excellent photos if you need that kind of media. It’s a useful point-and-shoot camera. The Sony ZV-1 is perfect for beginners and music streamers.

3. Canon EOS R5

Best Professional Camera for Music Videos

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Canon EOS R5
Camera Type
MirrorlessMirrorless
Megapixels
45 MP
Sensor Format
Full FrameFull Frame
Sensor Size
23.9 x 35.9 mm
Frame Rate
20 fps
Autofocus Points
1,053
Pros
  • Large 45 MP sensor
  • High frame rate of 20 fps
  • In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS)
  • Body, face, eye, and animal tracking
  • 8K/30p Ultra HD video
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Complicated autofocus setup
  • Noise reduction applied to RAW files
  • Hard to customize
  • Overheats shooting video

The Canon EOS R5 is the best camera for music videos if you’re a professional. It’s a true hybrid camera, delivering on all fronts. The images are incredible. And the videos are close to untouchable. The R5 doesn’t come cheap. But it’s an investment for making professional music videos.

Most creatives accept 4K video capabilities these days. But the Canon EOS R5 puts them all in the shade with 8K video. That’s cinema camera quality from a mirrorless camera. You can transform a garage gig into The Last Waltz.

The full frame sensor gives you a resolution of 45 MP. That’s superb image quality, meaning the stills are just as impressive as the videos. The dynamic range is fantastic. And there’s a wide ISO range (100 – 102,400) for shooting video in low light. The Dual Pixel CMOS AF system is also fantastic. It’s fast, accurate, and tracks your subject.

The R5 has built-in 5-axis image stabilization. It works with photos and videos, allowing for more handheld shots. You also have two continuous shooting options. The mechanical shutter gives you a continuous shooting speed of 12 fps. And the electronic shutter gives you 20 fps.

Shooting music videos in 8K uses a lot of memory. Thankfully the R5 has dual memory card slots for extra storage. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity is another handy feature for professional cameras.

4. Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

Best Micro Four Thirds Camera for Music Videos

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Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
Camera Type
MirrorlessMirrorless
Megapixels
20 MP
Sensor Format
Micro Four ThirdsMicro Four Thirds
Sensor Size
17.4 x 13 mm
Frame Rate
30 fps
Autofocus Points
121
Pros
  • 50 MP High Res Shot mode
  • 30 fps continuous shooting speed
  • Up to 6.5 stops of in-body stabilization with certain lenses
  • Excellent weather sealing
  • Articulating screen for angled shots
  • Excellent 4K Ultra HD and DCI video
Cons
  • Only 10 fps with AF tracking
  • Complicated Olympus menus
  • No headphone out
  • No video log profile for dynamic range or colors
  • An average battery life

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is an excellent all-around camera. It does it all, with great features and versatile shooting options. It’s ideal for enthusiast video makers. But beginners won’t feel lost with it either. E-M5 Mark III is of the best mid-range music video cameras.

The OM-D E-M5 III has a Micro Four Thirds image sensor. That’s smaller than APS-C and full frame sensors. But it still gives you outstanding results. The resolution is 20 MP. The dynamic range is good, so there’s no problem shooting in low light. The smaller sensor also makes for a more compact camera. That makes it a good choice if you want to shoot music videos in the street.

The 4K video is shot with a 30 fps frame rate. That’ll give you excellent video footage for music videos. You get slow-motion frame rates with Full HD video. And there’s 5-axis image stabilization to keep your footage sharp. You also have ports for external sound recording equipment. It’s perfect for any video content.

The autofocus system works well with photos and videos. It uses 121 focus points to give you near-full coverage and subject tracking. There’s a 30 fps continuous shooting option for action. And you get scene modes and filters you can apply in-camera. That saves you time in the video editing suite. The body is also weather sealed, so you can shoot music videos outside.

5. Sony A7 IV

Best Sony Mirrorless for Music Videos

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Badge
Sony a7 IV
Camera Type
MirrorlessMirrorless
Megapixels
33 MP
Sensor Format
Full FrameFull Frame
Sensor Size
23.8 x 35.6 mm
Frame Rate
10 fps
Autofocus Points
759
Pros
  • Excellent image quality
  • Super responsive autofocus
  • 5.5 stops of image stabilization
  • Fully articulating rear screen
  • Powerful video capabilities (4K / 60p, 10-bit video) and live streaming
Cons
  • More expensive than the Sony a7 III
  • 6 fps with 14-bit lossless compressed or uncompressed RAW files
  • Significant distortion with moving subjects using a silent shutter
  • Occasional issues with rolling shutter
  • Requires a fast memory card

Sony’s mirrorless cameras have been stealing headlines over the last few years. Its full frame models break records and set standards. And that’s for video and well as photography. The Sony A7 IV is one of their finest models. The video specs make it one of the best professional cameras for shooting music videos.

The full frame sensor gives you an impressive 33 MP resolution. It’s an Exmor R CMOS sensor partnered with a BIONZ XR processor. You’ll get outstanding images. The color rendition, dynamic range, and detail are all superb. You also have sensor-shift image stabilization to keep everything sharp.

The Sony A7 IV is also perfect for shooting stunning music videos. You can shoot 4K video with a selection of different frame rates. You have 24 and 30 fps if you want to keep things simple. But you also get 60 fps at 4K for super-smooth video footage. The A7 IV doesn’t use pixel binning, so the video is clear of artifacts.

The autofocus system is one of the most advanced on the market. It uses 759 phase detection and 425 contrast detection points for incredible subject tracking. It also has face and eye detection. The rotating screen is another handy feature if you’re shooting solo. You’ll get fantastic results for solo performances and tutorials.

6. Panasonic Lumix GH5

Highly Recommended for Filming Music Videos

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Badge
Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5
Camera Type
MirrorlessMirrorless
Megapixels
20.3 MP
Sensor Format
Micro Four ThirdsMicro Four Thirds
Sensor Size
13 x 17.3 mm
Frame Rate
12 fps
Autofocus Points
225
Pros
  • Smooth 4K video at 60 fps
  • Large and bright electronic viewfinder
  • Durable, weather-sealed body
  • Dual memory card slots
Cons
  • Large body for a Micro Four Thirds
  • No built-in flash
  • No USB charging
  • Disappointing low-light still performance

The Panasonic Lumix GH5 is easily one of the best cameras for music videos. It’s a Micro Four Thirds (MFT) camera, making it one of the more compact mirrorless cameras. But it’s packed with fantastic features for shooting music videos.

The video capabilities make the GH5 one of the best cameras for music videos. And not just amateur music videos. The 4K quality is good enough for professional videos. There’s a good selection of frame rates, including 50 or 60 fps. You also get faster frame rates for slow-motion HD video.

Being a Panasonic camera, the GH5 is a good hybrid. And the photography results are solid too. The MFT sensor gives you a 20.3 MP resolution. The low-light performance is good. And the dynamic range is impressive for an MFT sensor.

You also get Lumix 4K Photo mode. This allows you to select individual frames from 4K footage and use them as still images. That gives you a 60 fps burst. It’s ideal for video promotion shots.

The GH5 also has 5-axis image stabilization. That works for photos and videos. And there’s a fast and accurate AF system. The flip-out LCD monitor is excellent for getting the right shot. And the body is splash and freezeproof. If you want to record music videos, you can’t go wrong with the Panasonic Lumix GH5.

7. Canon EOS Rebel T8i

Best APS-C DSLR Camera for Music Videos

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Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D
Camera Type
DSLRDSLR
Megapixels
24 MP
Sensor Format
APS-CAPS-C
Sensor Size
14.9 x 22.3 mm
Frame Rate
7.5 fps
Autofocus Points
45
Pros
  • Excellent image quality
  • Face and eye-detection AF
  • Great ISO range and low-light performance
  • 4K/25p and Full HD/120p video
  • Webcam functionality and remote shooting with smartphone
Cons
  • Fiddly control dials
  • Less reliable AF in video mode
  • Small optical viewfinder display
  • Cropped 4K video

The Canon EOS Rebel T8i is an excellent entry-level DSLR. And despite being a beginner camera, it has plenty of features for shooting music videos. The results for photos and videos are excellent. And it’s ideal for young musicians wanting to make their first musical content. It gives you the opportunity to break into the music industry.

The Canon EOS Rebel T8i has an APS-C sensor. And it has a 24.1 MP resolution for excellent image quality. The 100-12,800 ISO range gives you flexibility in low-light conditions. The continuous shooting mode is slow at only 7 fps. You do get a Dual Pixel CMOS AF system with subject tracking. Eye and face detection is perfect for solo performances.

You get excellent 4K HD video capability. The 4K frame rate is 24 fps. It’s not exactly a cinema camera. But you’ll still have fantastic footage for social media or YouTube. You also have vertical video mode. Shooting in this mode produces videos with the perfect dimensions for platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

The Rebel T8i can also be used as a webcam. You need the EOS Utility software on your computer. Then you can use the camera for streaming videos. It’s perfect for live performances and online tutorials.

The optical viewfinder is lovely to use. But there’s no live view with the LCD screen. The battery life is excellent. And the camera is easy for anyone to pick up and shoot video.

8. Sony Cyber-Shot RX100 VII

Best Compact Camera for Filming Music Videos

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Badge
Sony RX100 VII
Camera Type
CompactCompact
Megapixels
20 MP
Sensor Format
1"1"
Sensor Size
13.2 x 8.8 mm
Frame Rate
5 fps
Autofocus Points
357
Pros
  • Pocket-sized point-and-shoot
  • High-quality Zeiss zoom lens with 8x zoom
  • Advanced autofocus system with subject tracking
  • Excellent 4K video performance
  • Microphone jack for audio recording
Cons
  • Very expensive
  • Image quality isn't great
  • Not the best low-light performance
  • No microphone jack
  • No headphone jack

A compact camera might not be your first choice for shooting music videos. But the Sony RX100 VII produces fantastic video. And it has quality camera features for music video production. It’s one of the best cameras if you want something versatile and compact.

The RX100 VII gives you stunning 4K video footage. It shoots at 30 fps. And you get the best autofocus system in any compact camera. It uses 357 phase and 425 contrast detection points for incredible speed and accuracy. You also have jacks for external sound recording equipment.

The 1-inch image sensor gives you a 20.1 MP resolution. The photos are fantastic. And the camera has an 8x zoom lens. And the optical image stabilization keeps your photos and videos sharp.

There’s a rotating screen to help you shoot music videos by yourself. And there’s a 20 fps burst mode with AF subject tracking. The Wi-Fi connectivity helps you use the camera remotely. And you can turn the RX100 VII into a webcam for streaming. It’s the best compact for filming music videos.

9. Fujifilm X-T30 II

Best Fujifilm Camera for Music Videos

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Fujifilm X-T30 II
Camera Type
MirrorlessMirrorless
Megapixels
26 MP
Sensor Format
APS-CAPS-C
Sensor Size
23.5 x 15.6 mm
Frame Rate
30 fps
Autofocus Points
425
Pros
  • Affordable
  • High-quality images
  • Fast 30 fps with 1.25x crop
  • Small and light
  • Stylish retro, black-and-silver look
Cons
  • No in-body stabilization
  • Poor ergonomics with longer lenses
  • Q button awkwardly positioned
  • Rear screen is not fully articulated

Fujifilm is the master of mid-range mirrorless cameras. And the Fujifilm X-T30 II has everything you need to make your next music video. Looks aren’t everything, but it has a sleek and stylish design. And the Fujifilm X-T30 II also produces superb media. It’ll put you one step closer to the music industry.

The X-T30 II is an APS-C mirrorless camera. The sensor resolution is 26.1 MP, which is powerful for a crop sensor camera. The color rendition and dynamic range also mean you can expect superb image quality.

You can shoot high-quality footage in 4K at 30 fps. And you have advanced video camera options, including super-slow-motion. You can shoot Full HD video at 240 fps for smooth slow-mo. You also have a 20 fps continuous shooting speed. And you get the Fujifilm film simulation filters for photos and videos. They’ll give your music video a stylish retro look.

The AF system works well for photos and videos. And you have Wi-Fi connectivity for sharing your media with other devices. It also allows you to use the camera remotely with the Fujifilm camera app. The Fujifilm X-T30 II is an excellent mirrorless camera for music videos.

10. Nikon D500

Best Nikon DSLR for Music Videos

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Nikon D500
Camera Type
DSLRDSLR
Megapixels
20.9 MP
Sensor Format
APS-CAPS-C
Sensor Size
15.7 x 23.5 mm
Frame Rate
10 fps
Autofocus Points
153
Pros
  • Excellent low-light performance
  • 10 fps RAW burst with 200-image limit
  • Weather-sealed body
  • Long-lasting battery life
  • 4K video with ports for external sound recording
Cons
  • Low resolution for an APS-C Sensor
  • No advanced bird or animal AF
  • Slow AF in Live View
  • Heavy DSLR body
  • 4K video is cropped

A Nikon DSLR is never a bad choice. And the Nikon D500 is a fantastic camera for your music video production ensemble. Nikon isn’t known for making cinema cameras. But the D500 is a hybrid performer of the highest order.

As you might expect, the photography stats are fantastic. The D500 has an APS-C DX-Format sensor with a 20.9 MP resolution. The dynamic range is excellent in all conditions. And you get a wide ISO range (50 – 1,640,000) for stunning low-light performance.

The photography performance translates into good video results. You can shoot 4K video at 30 fps. And that’s partnered with a 153-point autofocus with subject tracking. The camera also has a vibration reduction system to stabilize the picture when filming.

The Nikon D500 has a 20 fps continuous shooting speed. And you can shoot at that speed to a limit of 200 images. The camera has the Nikon F lens mount. That gives you an incredible selection of interchangeable lenses. You’ll be able to find the exact lens you need for your music video. That includes fisheye lenses. Here’s how you can use one in a music video.

11. Sony ZV-E10

Best Camera for Filming Youtube Music Videos

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Badge
Sony ZV-E10
Camera Type
MirrorlessMirrorless
Megapixels
24 MP
Sensor Format
APS-CAPS-C
Sensor Size
23.5 x 15.6 mm
Frame Rate
11 fps
Autofocus Points
425
Pros
  • Top-end autofocus system that's great with photo and video
  • No time limit on video recording
  • Fully articulating screen and selfie modes
  • External microphones and headphones ports
  • Compact and lightweight camera body
Cons
  • No sensor-shift stabilization, only a shake reduction system
  • Visible rolling shutter effect with tracking shots
  • The lack of a viewfinder is disappointing
  • 4K video is cropped at 30 fps

The Sony ZV-E10 is a streamer’s dream camera. It’s one of Sony’s best hybrid cameras in its class. It’s ideal for music streamers and online music teachers. The features and functions make it one of the best cameras for music content.

It’s equipped with an APS-C CMOS sensor. And with a 24.2 MP resolution, you can expect excellent images. But the video features make this camera a popular model with content creators.

The Sony ZV-E10 is a 4K video camera. And the footage is shot at 30 fps. You also get slow-motion settings up to 60x. The image stabilization system allows you to capture smooth footage when shooting from hand.

There’s face recognition autofocus. And it has a face-detection auto-exposure feature. It detects changes in light and adjusts the exposure. It keeps your face perfectly exposed at all times. You can also add extra background blur if you want to stand out. The Sony ZV-E10 is the right camera for music YouTubers.

12. Nikon Z6 II

Best Nikon Mirrorless Camera for Music Videos

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Badge
Nikon Z6 II
Camera Type
MirrorlessMirrorless
Megapixels
24.5 MP
Sensor Format
Full FrameFull Frame
Sensor Size
35.9 x 23.9 mm
Frame Rate
14 fps
Autofocus Points
273
Pros
  • Excellent low-light focusing
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Superb low-light dynamic range
  • Dual memory card slots
Cons
  • Autofocus can be slow
  • Relatively short battery life
  • Lower MP count than main competitors
  • Needs more customizable buttons

The Nikon Z6 II is a professional camera from Nikon’s range of mirrorless cameras. It’s another fantastic hybrid camera. It’s a multimedia machine that’s perfect for music video production. It isn’t a budget option. But it’s a music industry standard mirrorless camera.

The Z6 II has a full frame sensor with a 24.5 MP resolution. That doesn’t sound like much for a full frame camera. But it has dual Exceed 6 image processors that extract tons of information from every pixel. The dynamic range is outstanding. And you get fantastic low-light performance.

You can record music videos in 4K. And that’s Ultra HD video shot at 60 fps. Your footage will be super-smooth and crystal clear. There’s no pixel binning, so your get full power from every pixel. You also have slow-motion options. And there’s a 4K time-lapse feature for more creative possibilities.

The body is weather sealed. That means you can shoot on location in all conditions. And it allows you to use water effects in a studio. The Z6 II also has an exposure overlay feature. You can overlay up to ten images in-camera. The AF system is also one of Nikon’s best to date. The Nikon Z6 II is an incredible multimedia camera for music video production.

13. Canon EOS M50 II

Best Canon Mirrorless for Music Videos

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Badge
Canon EOS M50 Mark II
Camera Type
MirrorlessMirrorless
Megapixels
24 MP
Sensor Format
APS-CAPS-C
Sensor Size
14.9 x 22.3 mm
Frame Rate
10 fps
Autofocus Points
143
Pros
  • Strong sensor resolution
  • 4K and Full HD video options
  • Time-lapse recording
  • External mic port
  • Webcam functionality
Cons
  • 4K video is cropped
  • No environmental sealing
  • No sensor-shift image stabilization
  • Disappointing battery life

The Canon EOS M50 II is another excellent music video camera for beginners and solo streamers. It’s a compact mirrorless camera with fantastic features for photos and video. It’s a great camera if you want to record solo performances. And it’s a good choice for online teachers.

The EOS M50 II has a 24.1 MP APS-C CMOS sensor. That’s excellent for taking still photos. And the 4K video looks just as professional. The 4K is shot at 24 fps, which isn’t the fastest. But it’ll look sleek and smooth on social media. You also have 120 fps HD video for cool slow-motion shots.

There’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF with face and eye detection. It tracks you so you’re never out of focus. The Canon EOS M50 II transforms into a webcam with the EOS Utility app. That allows you to stream live online. You can also shoot footage in a vertical format for social media platforms.

14. Sony FDR-AX43

Best Camcorder for Filming Music Videos

Sony FDR-AX43 for Filming Music Videos

The Sony FDR-AX43 is a dedicated camcorder. This option is for music video makers who want to stick to video recording. It doesn’t have the versatility of the hybrid cameras. But it’s a specialist piece of equipment that excels in video recording.

The Sony FDR-AX43 has an Exmor R CMOS sensor. It’s designed as a low-light specialist to give you versatile shooting options. It shoots 4K video. And you can shoot with a 24, 25, or 30 fps frame rate.

The camera has a 20x optical zoom. And it has a built-in gimbal. This stabilizes your images when you’re shooting to reduce camera shake. There’s a three-mic device for capturing sound. And you have ports for external audio recording devices.

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15. GoPro Hero 10

Best Action Camera for Music Videos

GoPro Hero 10 product photo

GoPro cameras are associated with adventure and sports, not music videos. But the photo and video quality is so good that you can use them for pretty much anything. The results are superb. And the extra features make the GoPro Hero 10 one of the best cameras for video content.

GoPro cameras are small and compact. But the GoPro Hero 10 shoots 5.2K video at 60 fps. That’s incredible video quality for any camera, let alone a GoPro. It also has built-in image stabilization for smoother pictures. And you can shoot 8x slow-mo in 2.7K. And you can use single frames from video footage as photos.

The rugged nature of GoPro cameras gives you more creative options. They are waterproof so that you can shoot underwater. And you can attach them to cars, bikes, and helmets. The GoPro Hero 10 opens up a new world of creativity for your next music video.

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Our Verdict

Hybrid cameras offer the widest range of creative options for music video production. And the Panasonic Lumix S5 is the ultimate hybrid camera. It produces professional photos and videos. That’s why it tops our list as the best camera for music videos.

We also have cameras for solo performers and music streamers. The Sony ZV-1 and the Canon EOS Rebel T8i are the best options in that department. We’ve included the Canon EOS R5 and Sony A7 IV for professional videographers. And there’s the Sony EV-E10 for people on the DIY music scene.

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Panasonic Lumix DC-S5

Panasonic Lumix DC-S5

The S5 is the ultimate hybrid camera. It delivers incredible results for photos and video. It’s a media creator’s dream.

Music videos are more important than ever. From MTV to YouTube, videos have become just as iconic as songs. They’re a fantastic creative outlet for videographers. And they can give artists their big break. That’s why you need the best camera for music videos.

Man with a camera filming another man in a red room
© Gordon Cowie

Buyer’s Guide

Finding the best camera for music videos isn’t easy. There are different types of music videos. And each has its own demands. You need a camera that can meet those demands and give you high-quality music videos.

We’ll take you through the key features you need in a music video camera. Then you’ll be ready to helm new music video projects and crack the music industry.

Video Quality

Full HD video was the standard for a long time. But now, Full HD doesn’t make the cut. 4K is now the minimum requirement. Anything less is going to look outdated within weeks. You want your videos to look fresh and vibrant. That’s also true for YouTube music teachers.

Image Quality

Hybrid cameras are all the rage in the visual arts industry. They are all-in-one solutions for creative artists. And they’re ideal for music video production. Shooting music videos also involves capturing still images. These are used for promotion and social media campaigns.

The megapixel count on the sensor lets you know the image quality. The general rule is the higher the MP count, the better the image quality. Always check the MP count when buying digital cameras.

ISO Range

A wider ISO range gives you more options with lighting. A camera with a higher ISO often has better low-light performance. And if you have low ISO settings, you can shoot with better picture quality.

Image Stabilization

Built-in image stabilization reduces camera shake and motion blur. It allows you to shoot with slower shutter speeds when taking photos. And it reduces movement when shooting videos. It gives you more options to shoot from hand. You don’t need to rely on a tripod or gimbal.

Additional Features

Some cameras have built-in filters and effects. These look great and reduce the workload in post-production. Burst modes are also for excellent capturing action. And time-lapse features are another great way to create media.

Man in yellow buffer jacked filmed by another man
© Rene Ranisch

Extra Camera Gear for Music Videos

The camera is the main piece of equipment you need. But there are other pieces of gear that can help you shoot stunning music videos.

Gimbals, Stabilizers, and Tripod

Stabilization is important when shooting any kind of video. A film with too much shake can be unwatchable. And shooting from hand can leave you with shaky footage. That’s why one of these devices can save your music video shoot.

Gimbals have become the most popular stabilizer. They give you freedom of movement. And they actively counter camera shake, giving you smoother footage. Stabilizers are also popular. They help keep the camera as steady as possible.

Tripods give you a solid platform to shoot from. They don’t allow for much movement when shooting. But they’re the best tool for keeping a camera in one place. Videomakers need a tripod with a fluid head for smooth panning. They’re a must-have if you’re making videos on your own.

Lights and Reflectors

Many video makers are turning to LED lights. You can get LED panels for consistent lighting. Or you can get creative with LED strip lights. Some can be synced with music, which is a fun effect for music videos.

Reflectors are ideal for filming music videos. They give you more control over light. And you don’t need to plug anything in. They reflect the light you have available, so you have more options with natural light.

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