This is a guide covering the best cameras for music videos.
Anyone with the right gear can be a videographer these days.
It is now possible to create entertaining music videos for indie and mainstream artists if you have the right music video camera.
The best camera for music videos ranges from mirrorless cameras to sports cameras such as GoPro.
To make the selection process easier, we’ve compiled some of the most popular options from pros and novice videographers alike. All of the cameras on this list have 4K recording capabilities except for the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III.
In a hurry? Here’s the quick overview:
- ⭐ Best Overall Camera for Music Videos
- 📷 Best DSLR Camera for Music Videos
- 🔍 Best Mirrorless Cameras for Music Videos
- 📹 Best Action Camera for Music Videos
- 📸 Best Compact Camera for Music Videos
- 💸 Best Budget Camera for Music Videos
How to Choose the Best Camera for Recording Music Videos?
Video Resolution: Look for a camera that can record in 4K resolution for high-quality, professional-looking videos.
Autofocus: Choose a camera with a fast and accurate autofocus system to ensure that your subjects stay in focus while they move around during the performance.
Image stabilization: Cameras with image stabilization can help to reduce camera shake and blur, which is especially important when recording in low light conditions or when using a long lens.
Audio: Some cameras have built-in microphones, but it’s better to use an external microphone to capture high-quality audio. Look for a camera that has an external microphone input.
Low-light performance: Music videos are often shot in low-light conditions, so consider a camera that performs well in low light.
Camera type: Based on your budget and preference, you can choose between a DSLR, mirrorless or action camera.
Camera control: Look for a camera that provides manual control options to adjust settings such as shutter speed, aperture, and ISO.
Battery life: Consider the battery life when choosing a camera, especially if you will be recording for long periods of time.
Brand and model: Look for a camera from a reputable brand that has a good reputation for producing high-quality cameras and has a track record of producing good results for your specific type of videography.
Budget: Consider your budget and select the camera that fits your budget and has most of the features you need.
Table of Contents
12 Best Cameras for Music Videos
1. Canon EOS R6
Camera Specifications:
- Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
- Max resolution: 5472 x 3648
- Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Yes, 100-102400 (expands to 204800)
- Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
- Articulated LCD: Fully articulated
- Screen size: 3″
- Touch screen: Yes
- Screen type: TFT LCD
- USB: USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 GBit/sec)
- USB charging: Yes
- HDMI: Yes (micro HDMI)
- Microphone port: Yes
- Headphone port: Yes
- Wireless: Built-In
- Remote control: Yes
- Video formats:
- 1920 x 1080
- 3840 x 2160 (4K)
I believe the best camera for music videos is the Canon EOS R6.
The Canon EOS R6 is Canon’s answer to the mirrorless craze. But unlike micro four-thirds cameras, the EOS R6 is a full-frame camera equipped with all the things you like in a DSLR but only in a slightly lighter package.
Aside from taking beautiful photos, it can also take videos in 4K. One of the things that people prefer the EOS R6 over other brands is the fact that Canon has an array of lenses that will meet the requirement of most videographers.
It allows up to 60fps for 4K videos and 120fps for 1080. The colors on the video are also stunning and perfect for content creators for both amateurs and pros.
You can also get two card slots allowing you to continuously shoot without having to switch cards.
And just in case you need to shoot at an awkward angle, you can just flip out the screen and work without guessing the composition.
Though it is considered the best camera for music videos, you will have to pay more for the body alone not to mention its lenses.
Unfortunately, not everyone has the funds to buy this mirrorless camera.
Also, check out the full list of best lenses for the Canon EOS R6.
My Pros With This Camera:
- Robust design
- Takes 4K videos in 60fps
- Dual cards
- Flippable screen
- Multiple lens options
My Cons With This Camera:
- n/a
2. Panasonic LUMIX G7KS
Camera Specifications:
- Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
- Max resolution: 4592 x 3448
- Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Auto, 160, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200, 6400, 12800, 25600
- Image stabilization: No
- Articulated LCD: Fully articulated
- Screen size: 3″
- Touch screen: Yes
- Screen type: TFT Color LCD with wide-viewing angle
- USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
- HDMI: Yes (microHDMI TypeD)
- Microphone port: Yes
- Wireless: Built-In
- Video formats:
- 640 x 480
- 1280 x 720
- 1920 x 1080
- 3840 x 2160 (4K)
I believe the best budget camera for music videos is the Panasonic LUMIX G7KS.
This already includes a kit lens that allows you to shoot. It can shoot in 4K video which is advantageous for a lot of starting video content creators even for those who are looking to shoot footage for music videos.
It is compact and also offers great audio when you shoot videos. However, it doesn’t have any weather sealing which makes it tricky if you are looking to shoot outdoors.
My Pros With This Camera:
- Shoots in 4K
- Compact design
My Cons With This Camera:
- No weather sealing
3. Panasonic LUMIX GH5S
Camera Specifications:
- Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
- Max resolution: 3680 x 2760
- Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Auto, 160-51200 (expands to 80-204800)
- Image stabilization: No
- Articulated LCD: Fully articulated
- Screen size: 3.2″
- Touch screen: Yes
- Screen type: TFT LCD
- USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
- USB charging: No
- HDMI: Yes (Up to 4:2:2 10-bit output)
- Microphone port: Yes
- Headphone port: Yes
- Wireless: Built-In
- Remote control: Yes (wired or smartphone)
- Video formats:
- 1920 x 1080
- 3840 x 2160 (4K)
The Lumix GH5S is a favorite among video production houses. It can take 4K videos capable of capturing videos in great detail.
If you will compare the color produced by GH5 and GH5S, the Lumix GH5S produces a more natural color than the orange hue produced by GH5.
One of the things that you will notice is that it produces minimal noise.
It is a rugged Panasonic mirrorless camera designed with a splashproof and dustproof body that can withstand different conditions.
It also has twin SD card slots that give users the chance to shoot with the confidence that they have enough space for their video.
However, the biggest downside to this camera is that it produces a lot of noise for anything that is above ISO 1600.
Unfortunately, it has been marketed for its low-light performance.
My Pros With This Camera:
- Durable and splashproof body
- Takes 4K videos
- Realistic colors
- Twin SD card
My Cons With This Camera:
- Doesn’t do well in low-light situations
4. Panasonic LUMIX GX85
Camera Specifications:
- Body type: Rangefinder-style mirrorless
- Max resolution: 4592 x 3448
- Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Auto, 200-25600 (expands down to 100)
- Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
- Articulated LCD: Tilting
- Screen size: 3″
- Touch screen: Yes
- Screen type: TFT LCD
- USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
- HDMI: Yes (micro-HDMI)
- Microphone port: No
- Headphone port: No
- Wireless: Built-In
- Remote control: Yes (via smartphone)
- Video formats:
- 640 x 480
- 1280 x 720
- 1920 x 1080
- 3840 x 2160 (4K)
The Lumix GX85 is another budget-friendly alternative for those who are looking for a compact and handy music video camera.
Compared to other cameras, you may argue that this could potentially be the best camera for music videos considering what it brings to the table.
It’s one of those mid-range cameras that packs a punch for those who are only starting their career as a videographer.
This comes in with a 5-axis body stabilization that allows fewer shakes even when you are only holding the camera while shooting video or shooting photos.
Using the camera in awkward angles is also not an issue as it comes in with a 3-inch touchscreen LCD. The biggest downside is that you don’t get a mic jack which can be a turn-off for some videographers.
My Pros With This Camera:
- Takes 4K videos
- With 5-axis body stabilization
- 3-inch tilting touchscreen LCD
My Cons With This Camera:
- No mic jack
5. GoPro HERO6 Black
Camera Specifications:
- Body type: VR/Action Camera
- Max resolution: 4000 x 3000
- Image ratio: 4:3, 16:9
- Articulated LCD: Fixed
- Screen size: 2″
- Touch screen: Yes
- USB: USB 3.0 (5 GBit/sec)
- USB charging: Yes
- HDMI: Yes (micro HDMI)
- Microphone port: Yes
- Headphone port: No
- Wireless: Built-In
- Video formats:
- 1920 x 1080
- 3840 x 2160 (4K)
- 4096 x 2160 (4K)
There are lots of people who are buying newer GoPro cameras thinking that the older ones get obsolete all of a sudden. In reality, this isn’t the case.
With the GoPro 6 Black, you get a candidate for the best camera for music videos with its 4K capability, robust design, and compact design.
This is something designed for extreme sports and active individuals. Just imagine the GoPro 6 Black being able to handle 10 meters of being submerged in water even without any housing.
The GP1 chip is also optimized to improve image quality. Plus, GoPro 6 Black is known for its intuitive touchscreen.
However, you will need to buy the right SD card. You will need to have class 10 SD cards for the GoPro to work.
My Pros With This Camera:
- Touchscreen
- Can be submerged in water up to 10 meters without housing
- Compact design
- 4K
My Cons With This Camera:
- You will need to buy a compatible SD card
6. Nikon D850
Camera Specifications:
- Body type: Mid-size SLR
- Max resolution: 8256 x 5504
- Image ratio: 1:1, 5:4, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Auto, 64-25600 (expands to 32-102400)
- Image stabilization: No
- Articulated LCD: Tilting
- Screen size: 3.2″
- Touch screen: Yes
- Screen type: TFT LCD
- USB: USB 3.0 (5 GBit/sec)
- USB charging: No
- HDMI: Yes (mini HDMI)
- Microphone port: Yes
- Headphone port: Yes
- Wireless: Built-In
- Remote control: Yes (wired, wireless, smartphone)
The D850 FX-Format DSLR is not only a good option for photographers but even for videographers. It comes in as a top contender for serious loyal Nikon users looking for the best camera for music videos.
It can take videos in 8K and 4K time-lapse movies. However, normally, you can take 4K ultra HD videos using this unit. If you prefer to slow things down to 120 fps, you can opt to have the 1080p.
When it comes to using the DSLR, you can use its touchscreen to get the right configuration. Plus, you can also tilt the touchscreen making it easier to compose your shots.
Also, check out the best lenses for the Nikon D850.
My Pros With This Camera:
- Durable design
- Tilting touchscreen LCD
- 8K time-lapse
- Shoots in 4k and 120fps at 1080
My Cons With This Camera:
- n/a
7. Sony a7 III
Camera Specifications:
- Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
- Max resolution: 6000 x 4000
- Image ratio: 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Auto, 100-51200
- Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
- Articulated LCD: Tilting
- Screen size: 3″
- Touch screen: Yes
- Live view: Yes
- Viewfinder type: Electronic
- USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
- HDMI: Yes (micro-HDMI port with 4K still, uncompressed video output)
- Microphone port: Yes
- Headphone port: Yes
- Wireless: Built-In
- Remote control: Yes (wired)
- Video formats:
- 1920 x 1080
- 3840 x 2160 (4K)
Sony A7III is a lighter alternative for those who are tired of carrying pro-level DSLRs when taking footage for music videos. Consider the Sony A7 III as a candidate for the best camera for music videos thanks to its ability to shoot 4K videos up to 30fps.
For 1080p, it can shoot 24, 30, 100, or 120fps. Its full-frame sensor makes it better than your micro four thirds cameras especially when it comes to low-light situations.
Also, check out the best lenses for the Sony a7iii.
My Pros With This Camera:
- Good indoor and low light performance
- Shoots 4K videos
- Lighter than DSLRs
My Cons With This Camera:
- n/a
8. Panasonic LUMIX ZS100
Camera Specifications:
- Body type: Large sensor compact
- Max resolution: 5472 x 3648
- Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO Auto, 125-12800 (expands to 80-25600)
- Boosted ISO (minimum) 80
- Boosted ISO (maximum) 25600
- White balance presets 5
- Custom white balance Yes (4 slots)
- Image stabilization: Optical
- Articulated LCD: Fixed
- Screen size: 3″
- Touch screen: Yes
- Screen type: TFT LCD
- USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
- USB charging: Yes
- HDMI: Yes (microHDMI)
- Microphone port: No
- Headphone port: No
- Wireless: Built-In
- Remote control: Yes (via smartphone)
- Video formats:
- 640 x 480
- 1920 x 1080
- 4K
If you don’t like carrying a bulky 4K camera, then you might want to consider the Panasonic Lumix ZS100.
Equipped with a fixed lens that offers an F2.8-5.9 aperture, it is the type of camera that comes in handy when shooting in daylight or even indoors.
Though it is a point-and-shoot digital camera that comes with a 4K capability, its lens can be compared to a DSLR with a manual-lens mounted control ring allowing you to focus on the subject easily. (Check out the list of best point and shoot cameras).
It also has a tilting LCD that allows you to see even if you are holding the camera up.
My Pros With This Camera:
- Tilting LCD
- Shoots in 4K
- Great for indoors and outdoors
- With a manual focus ring
My Cons With This Camera:
- Fixed lens
9. Sony Alpha a6400
Camera Specifications:
- Body type: Rangefinder-style mirrorless
- Max resolution: 6000 x 4000
- Image ratio: 1:1, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Auto, 100-32000 (expands to 102800)
- Image stabilization: No
- Articulated LCD: Tilting
- Screen size: 3″
- Touch screen: Yes
- Screen type: TFT LCD
- USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
- USB charging: Yes
- HDMI: Yes (micro-HDMI)
- Microphone port: Yes
- Headphone port: No
- Wireless: Built-In
- Remote control: Yes (via smartphone)
- Video formats:
- 1920 x 1080
- 3840 x 2160 (4K)
Sony Alpha A6400 is a good choice for those who are looking to create video content. It’s a favorite among vloggers considering the quality of its videos and the functionality that it offers to its users.
It comes with multiple movie functions. It is capable of creating slow-motion videos minus post-processing. It can shoot 4K videos plus it has a tiltable LCD that comes in handy when you are vlogging or when you need to take shots in awkward positions.
But is it the best camera for music videos? As far as video quality is concerned, it can meet the demands of pros. However, you will need to bring an extra battery.
Also, check out a full list of the best lenses for the Sony A6400.
My Pros With This Camera:
- Tiltable LCD
- Shoots 4K videos
- Multiple movie functionality
- Small and compact design
My Cons With This Camera:
- Mediocre battery life
10. Panasonic LUMIX DC-ZS70K
Camera Specifications:
- Body type: Compact
- Max resolution: 5184 x 3888
- Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Auto, 80-3200 (expands to 6400)
- Image stabilization: Optical
- Articulated LCD: Tilting
- Screen size: 3″
- Touch screen: Yes
- Screen type: TFT LCD
- USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
- HDMI: Yes (microHDMI)
- Microphone port: No
- Headphone port: No
- Wireless: Built-In
- Remote control: Yes (via smartphone)
- Video formats:
- 1280 x 720
- 1920 x 1080
- 3840 x 2160 (4K)
The Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS70K makes use of a DC Vario Elmar lens that is zoomable from 24mm to 720mm.
It also has a 5-axis hybrid optical image stabilizer that can help minimize shakes whenever you are shooting videos or shooting photos.
It is a small but handy 4K camera that produces realistic colors for its users. Similar to the ZS100, it has some DSLR-like features such as the lens barrel-mounted control ring.
My Pros With This Camera:
- With mounted control ring
- 4K video
- Compact
- With 5-axis hybrid optical image stabilization
My Cons With This Camera:
- Fixed lens
11. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III
Camera Specifications:
- Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
- Max resolution: 5184 x 3888
- Image ratio: 4:3
- ISO: Auto, 200-25600 (expands to 64-25600)
- Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
- Articulated LCD: Fully articulated
- Screen size: 3″
- Touch screen: Yes
- Screen type: TFT LCD
- Live view: Yes
- USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
- USB charging: Yes
- HDMI: Yes (micro HDMI)
- Microphone port: Yes
- Headphone port: Yes
- Wireless: Built-In
- Remote control: Yes (wired or smartphone)
- Video formats:
- 1920 x 1080
- 3840 x 2160 (4K)
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III is already a good pick for both starting photographers and videographers. It is a mid-range camera that comes in handy in most situations.
It offers a 4k 30fps video and 120fps for 1080. The stabilization feature is also perfect for those who prefer using the camera without any gimbal or tripod.
The body is lightweight and compact making it a top pick for those who don’t want to carry around heavy DLSRs.
Also, you get 2 dials and an arrow pad to make navigation easy. You can argue that it is a contender for the best camera for music videos given its capabilities. However, the skin tone can be a bit red for some.
My Pros With This Camera:
- With image stabilization
- Takes 4K videos
- Easy to navigate
My Cons With This Camera:
- Skin tone is a bit too red for some users
12. Fujifilm X-T4
Camera Specifications:
- Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
- Max resolution: 6240 x 4160
- Image ratio: 1:1, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Auto, 160-12800 (expands to 80-51200)
- Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
- Articulated LCD: Fully articulated
- Screen size: 3″
- Touch screen: Yes
- Screen type: TFT LCD
- Live view: Yes
- USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
- USB charging: Yes
- HDMI: Yes (micro-HDMI)
- Microphone port: Yes
- Headphone port: No
- Wireless: Built-In
- Remote control: Yes (via smartphone or wired remote)
- Video formats:
- 1920 x 1080
- 3840 x 2160 (4K)
Fujifilm X-T4 is a good choice for videographers who love Fuji’s system. It comes with the 5-axis in-body stabilization that can give you up to 6.5 stops of image stabilization making it easy to use the X-T4 even without a tripod.
The vari-angle LCD also makes it easier for the user to take videos even at awkward angles.
However, there are some issues that you should anticipate. For starters, users noted the camera overheating when you use the 4K/60p.
Also, you will be limited to fewer lenses than other popular brands such as Nikon and Canon.
My Pros With This Camera:
- With vari-angle touchscreen LCD
- With in-body stabilization
- Takes 4K videos
My Cons With This Camera:
- Fewer lens options
- Tends to overheat at 4K/60p video mode
FAQ
Are GoPros Good for Recording Music Videos?
GoPros can be used to record music videos, but they are not specifically designed for that purpose and may not produce the highest quality audio or video compared to other cameras that are specifically designed for music video production.
Do You Need a Professional Camera to Record Music Videos?
While a professional camera can produce high-quality video and audio for music videos, it is not necessarily required. Many smartphones and consumer-grade cameras have features and capabilities that can produce decent video and audio quality.
Is a DSLR or Mirrorless Camera Better for Recording Music Videos?
Both types of cameras offer a range of features and capabilities that can produce high-quality video and audio for music videos.
Final Remarks
Hope you enjoyed this guide on the best cameras for music videos!
If you are after the best camera for making music videos, it is a good idea to compare these cameras that we’ve mentioned.
You might want to consider your budget and how you are planning to use the camera.
Are you looking to use it for hours at a time or you are only looking to capture a few shots? This way, you can get the best bang for your buck.
I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
Nate Torres is a portrait photographer based in Southern California. Outside of photography, Nate specializes in SEO, content marketing, and entrepreneurship. He is also the founder of Imaginated.com, a platform for creator education.
