This is a guide covering the best cameras for self taping.
We live in a digital world which means we often have to present ourselves online. Whether it be for a fun video or a professional video. The camera is the medium that lets us create videos and therefore it is important that you pick a good camera.
When it comes to self taping or self recording, you will want a good, high quality camera that also has features such as a LCD screen that lets you “pop” it out so you can watch yourself while the camera is recording, WiFi/Bluetooth capabilities, and microphone input.
Whether you are a vlogger or you are creating a lesson online for your students, having the right camera can make a huge difference in your videos.
If given the choice, it is a good idea to go for a camera rather than your phone.
We’ve decided to list down some of the best cameras for self taping.
🏃♂️ In a hurry? Here’s the quick rundown:
Click/tap on the camera name to jump to that section to read my summary of the product. At the end of each section, there is a “→ Jump Back to Table” link to bring you back here!
⭐ Best Overall Camera for Self Taping
Why choose this camera for self-taping:
- The G7 has a 3-inch flip-out screen
- The autofocus and tracking are very fast
- 4K video with lots of details and it’s also very portable
📷 Best DSLR Cameras for Self Taping
Why choose this camera for self-taping:
- The D500 has an advanced autofocus system
- High-quality footage with lots of detail
- Flip-out 3.2-inch tilting LCD screen
Why choose this camera for self-taping:
- The 6D Mark II has a fast and reliable autofocus system
- Has a vari-angle LCD screen so you can position it to the front
- Full-frame sensor so better image quality especially in low light
🔍 Best Mirrorless Cameras for Self Taping
Why choose this camera for self-taping:
- The EOS M50 has fast autofocus and tracking to track when you are moving around in the frame
- Has a 3-inch vari-angle LCD screen that can face forwards so you can watch yourself
- Very lightweight and portable camera
Why choose this camera for self-taping:
- The a6000 is very lightweight and portable for on-the-go taping
- Shoots high quality 1080p resolution at 60 frames
- Has a 3-inch flip-up screen
📹 Best Compact Cameras for Self Taping
Why choose this camera for self-taping:
- Rugged and waterproof, great for outdoor situations
- Has a vari-angle LCD screen
- Has underwater capabilities and shoots high-quality video
Why choose this camera for self-taping:
- The Lumix LX100 II has a large Micro Four Thirds sensor with is great for high-quality images and videos
- Has a vari-angle LCD screen
- Has a very fast lens allowing for shallow depth of field and bokeh to be present
How to Choose a Good Camera for Self Taping?
- Video quality: For self-taping, it’s important to have a camera that can capture high-quality and detailed video. Look for a camera with advanced video processing capabilities and a high-resolution image sensor. 4K video resolution is a good option to consider for self-taping. Many of the cameras on this list are 4K.
- Portability: Self-taping often involves moving around and capturing video from different angles, so it’s important to choose a camera that is portable and easy to carry with you. Consider a compact or mirrorless camera that is lightweight and easy to handle.
- Audio quality: Good audio quality is crucial for self-tapping, so it’s important to choose a camera with a built-in microphone or the ability to attach an external microphone.
- Image stabilization: Image stabilization helps to reduce camera shake and produce smoother video, which is especially important for self-taping. Look for a camera with built-in image stabilization or a lens with image stabilization.
- Autofocus: Autofocus is important for self-taping to ensure that your video is in focus and looks sharp. Look for a camera with advanced autofocus capabilities, such as face tracking or eye tracking.
- Price: Finally, consider your budget when choosing a camera for self-tapping. There are a wide range of cameras available at different price points, so you should be able to find something that fits your needs and budget.
This list includes camcorders, mirrorless cameras, DSLRs, and even point-and-shoot cameras.
So make sure to review all the camera options for self taping.
That way you can make the best decision for you!
Table of Contents
10 Best Cameras for Self Taping
1. Panasonic Lumix G7
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: 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)
My Pros With This Camera:
- Lightweight
- Takes 4K videos
- Choose from a variety of lenses
My Cons With This Camera:
- Has a hard time taking videos of moving subjects
So what is the best overall camera perfect for self taping users?
I believe that the Panasonic Lumix G7 is the best option for a lot of users.
It is a favorite among vloggers for good reasons. It takes 4K videos, plus it is lightweight, and you also have the option to switch lenses.
Its only downside is that it doesn’t take videos of moving subjects that well.
Other than that, it fits the needs of users looking to record themselves whether for vlogging or for creating a curriculum for their students.
You can also find this camera on Walmart and Best Buy
2. Panasonic Lumix FZ80
Camera Specifications:
- Body type: SLR-life
- Max resolution: 4896 x 3672
- Image ratio: 4:3
- ISO: Auto, 80-3200 (expands to 6400)
- Image stabilization: Optical
- Articulated LCD: Fixed
- Screen size: 3″
- Touch screen: Yes
- Screen type: TFT LCD
- Live view: Yes
- 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:
- 1280 x 720
- 1920 x 1080
- 3840 x 2160 (4K)
My Pros With This Camera:
- Decent range
- Takes 4K videos
My Cons With This Camera:
- Doesn’t do well in low light conditions
Let’s also admit that not everyone has a big budget when it comes to their gear.
If you don’t want to break the bank, the Lumix FZ80 is the perfect option for you.
It shoots 4K videos, plus it has the ability to take videos at a distance thanks to its DC Vario 20-1200mm.
You won’t need to switch lenses given its ability to zoom in and zoom out.
However, with its fixed lens, you can’t manually focus using this camera.
Also, you will need good lighting for this camera to be useful.
You can also find this camera on Walmart
3. Panasonic LUMIX FZ300
Camera Specifications:
- Body type: SLR-like
- Max resolution: 4000 x 3000
- Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Auto, 100-6400
- Image stabilization: Optical
- Articulated LCD: Fully articulated
- Screen size: 3″
- Touch screen: Yes
- Screen type: TFT LCD
- Live view: Yes
- USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
- HDMI: Yes (mini-HDMI)
- Microphone port: Yes
- Headphone port: No
- Wireless: Built-In
- Remote control: Yes (wired or smartphone)
- Video formats:
- 640 x 480
- 1280 x 720
- 1920 x 1080
- 3840 x 2160 (4K)
My Pros With This Camera:
- Durable construction
- 4K video resolution
My Cons With This Camera:
- Fixed lens
The Lumix FZ300 is a great camera for those who are planning to shoot videos.
A favorite by many vloggers because of its 4K resolution, it is something that can deliver outstanding video resolution for both pros and amateurs alike.
It is also known for having dustproof and splashproof making it a sturdy option for those who love to travel.
For self taping, this camera can get the job done. It is one of the best cameras for self taping especially for those who don’t have plans of spending a lot on their camera.
The downside is that you will not be able to change the lens.
You just get a fixed F2.8 zoom lens.
You can also find this camera on Walmart
4. Canon EOS M50
Camera Specifications:
- Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
- Max resolution: 6000 x 4000
- Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Auto, 100-25600 (expands to 51200)
- Image stabilization: No
- Articulated LCD: Fully articulated
- Screen size: 3″
- Touch screen: Yes
- Screen type: TFT LCD
- Live view: Yes
- USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
- USB charging: No
- HDMI: Yes (micro-HDMI)
- Microphone port: Yes
- Headphone port: No
- Wireless: Built-In
- Remote control: Yes (via smartphone)
- Video formats:
- 1280 x 720
- 1920 x 1080
- 3840 x 2160 (4K)
My Pros With This Camera:
- Captures in 4K
- Lighter than DSLRs
- Allows you to switch lenses
- Flippable lens
My Cons With This Camera:
- Poor stabilization
The Canon brand isn’t exactly known for mirrorless cameras.
However, the EOS M50 is proof that Canon has been around to deliver some of the best features expected by photographers and videographers.
The EOS M50 is a mirrorless vlogging camera. It allows you to use different lenses and capture videos in stunning 4k.
What makes it one of the best cameras for self taping is the fact that it has a vari-angle lens that allows you to flip the screen allowing you to check if you are right at the center of the shot.
And because it’s a mirrorless camera, it is lighter than most DSLRs in the market.
Unfortunately, you will need to have a tripod for this camera in case you have someone shooting the video for you.
This camera is known for having poor stabilization.
Also, check out the best lenses for the Canon EOS M50.
You can also find this camera on Walmart and Best Buy
5. ORDRO AC5
My Pros With This Camcorder:
- Comes with a microphone and LED lights
- Records in 4K
- Wide-angle lens
My Cons With This Camcorder:
- The photo quality is not as good as a micro four thirds camera or a DSLR
A camcorder is a decent choice for those who are simply after a an equipment that they can use for self taping.
The Ordro AC5 UHD Camcorder records videos in 4K. It is a beginner-friendly camera perfect for users who are not exactly professional cameramen.
It comes with LED lights and a microphone that helps give you the proper lighting when shooting videos.
Plus, it comes with a wide-angle lens and lens hood perfect for shooting videos of yourself.
If you are not self taping, it can also work as a webcam or a WiFi camcorder if you are streaming.
You can also find this camcorder on Walmart
6. Sony FDRAX53/B
Camcorder Specifications:
- Maximum aperture: F2 – F3.8
- Image stabilization: Optical
- Built-in mic – Yes
- Battery: Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack
- Charging: Method AC Adapter
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 2.9 x 3.2 x 6.6″
- Weight: 22.4 oz / 635 g (Body with Battery)
- Video formats:
- 1280 x 720
- 1440 x 1080
- 1920 x 1080
- 3840 x 2160 (4K)
My Pros With This Camcorder:
- High-quality 4K video
- WiFi connectivity
- 20x optical zoom
- With built-in microphone
My Cons With This Camcorder:
- n/a
Another sophisticated camcorder that you should be looking into in case you are after self taping is the Sony FDRAX53/B camera.
It has the ability to record in 4K plus take photos at 16.6MP resolution.
If you are asking someone to take a video of you, it comes with a BOSS stabilization feature making it easier to take steady shots.
It has a 3-inch LCD that allows you to review the shots and navigate your camera’s setup. It comes with WiFi connectivity as well.
Plus, it goes beyond your requirements for self taping. It has the ability to do time-lapse plus it even has 20x optical zoom.
Though it has a built-in zoom microphone, you will still need to have an external microphone if you are a bit too far.
However, the reason why it isn’t too popular is the fact that it is a higher investment for a camcorder.
You can also find this camcorder on Best Buy
7. Nikon D500
Camera Specifications:
- Body type: Mid-size SLR
- Max resolution: 5568 x 3712
- Image ratio: 3:2
- ISO: ISO 100 – 51200 (expandable to 50 – 1640000)
- Image stabilization: No
- Articulated LCD: Tilting
- Screen size: 3.2″
- Touch screen: Yes
- Screen type: TFT LCD
- Live view: Yes
- USB: USB 3.0 (5 GBit/sec)
- HDMI: Yes (mini-HDMI)
- Microphone port: Yes
- Headphone port: Yes
- Wireless: Built-In
- Remote control: Yes (Optional, wired or wireless )
- Video formats:
- 720
- 1080
- 4K
My Pros With This Camera:
- Variety of lens options to choose from
- Takes 4K videos
- Tilting lens
- Touchscreen navigation
My Cons With This Camera:
- n/a
Are you in the market for the best DSLR camera for self tapes?
We believe that the best fit for this category is the Nikon D500.
This DSLR takes stunning photos. But more than that, it can also be a good camera for shooting your audition tapes or your vlogs.
First, it is a standout contender for the best DSLR camera for self tapes because of its ability to take 4K videos.
Also, it is highly versatile at taking photos with its 20.9MP sensor.
It also has an ISO sensitivity that runs up to ISO 51200 and could even be expanded to 1640000.
Plus, you also get to enjoy a tilting LCD that makes it easier to see your shots. You can also navigate the setting using the touchscreen functionality of its LCD.
And lastly, since it is a Nikon DSLR, you have a variety of lenses to choose from.
However, though it is definitely at the top of the list of the best cameras for self taping, this camera is not for everyone considering its higher investment.
Also, check out the best lenses for the Nikon D500.
You can also find this camera on Walmart and Best Buy
8. Canon PowerShot SX740
Camera Specifications:
- Body type: Ultracompact
- Max resolution: 5184 x 3888
- Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Auto, 100-3200
- Image stabilization: Optical
- Articulated LCD: Tilting
- Screen size: 3″
- Touch screen: No
- Screen type: TFT LCD
- Live view: Yes
- 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:
- 1280 x 720
- 1920 x 1080
- 3840 x 2160 (4K)
My Pros With This Camera:
- Easy to use for non-pros
- Great stabilization
- High-speed shooting capability
- 20.3MP sensor
- Capable of shooting 4K videos
My Cons With This Camera:
- Not a good option if it isn’t a well-lit environment
Perhaps, you are not exactly a pro and you have no plans of using a professional camera when taking a video of yourself.
The Canon PowerShot SX740 is a great option for those who are not into switching lenses and spending a good amount of money on their equipment.
It can shoot in 4K, plus you can also enjoy a 40x zoom function with this camera.
Transferring the files from your camera to your computer or mobile device is also not a problem thanks to its WiFi connectivity.
Image stabilization is also superb. You’d feel as if you are using a Gimbal when you have the Canon Powershot SX740.
But aside from its ability to take videos, it is a stand out camera. Despite being a point-and-shoot camera, it has a powerful 20.3MP CMOS sensor.
And on top of that, it is capable of high-speed continuous shooting.
What you might not like is the fact that its 4K resolution isn’t at the level of the other cameras that we have mentioned here in this list.
Unless you are in a well-lit environment, you might not like the PowerShot SX740.
You can also find this camera on Walmart and Best Buy
9. Canon Powershot SX70
Camera Specifications:
- Body type: SLR-like
- Max resolution: 5184 x 3888
- Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
- ISO: Auto, 100-3200
- Image stabilization: Optical
- Articulated LCD: Fully articulated
- Screen size: 3″
- Touch screen: No
- Screen type: TFT LCD
- Live view: Yes
- USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
- 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)
My Pros With This Camera:
- Powerful zoom
- Takes 4K videos
- Can be used as a webcam
My Cons With This Camera:
- Doesn’t allow you to switch the lens
Another Canon PowerShot model on our list is the PowerShot SX70.
This camera has been used by vloggers and even by those who simply need a camera for their meeting at work.
That’s because this camera can also function as a webcam for both Mac and Windows.
But is it one of the best cameras for self taping?
The Canon PowerShot SX70 features a powerful 65x optical zoom combined with 4K video and 4K time-lapse movie capability.
It also offers a 20.3MP resolution if you opt to take photos.
The drawback is that you don’t get to switch lenses.
Plus, there is no manual focus ring.
You will simply have to trust the camera to focus on your face if you are doing your self taping sessions.
You can also find this camera on Walmart
10. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III
Camera Specifications:
- Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
- Max resolution: 4608 x 3456
- Image ratio: 4:3
- ISO: Auto, 200-25600 (expands to 100-25600)
- Boosted ISO: (minimum) 100
- Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
- Articulated LCD: Tilting
- Screen size: 3″
- Touch screen: Yes
- Screen type: TFT LCD
- Live view: Yes
- 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:
- 1280 x 720
- 1920 x 1080
- 3840 x 2160 (4K)
My Pros With This Camera:
- Shoots in 4K
- With WiFi capability
- User-friendly touchscreen
My Cons With This Camera:
- Same sensor as its predecessor
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III comes with a 16MP live MOS sensor and a TruePic VIII image processor which makes it a favorite among professional photographers.
It is also a favorite pick by vloggers because it shoots 4K videos in 30P.
Construction-wise, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III is compact and lighter than most DSLRs.
You can also transfer files using its WiFi once you are done taking videos.
As for its LCD, it functions not only to review the shots but to also setup your photos and videos.
It has touchscreen feature that makes it user-friendly for most beginners.
The downside to this camera is that it is a bigger investment for a mirrorless camera not to mention it made use of the same sensor as the E-M10 Mark II.
You can also find this camera on Walmart
Frequently Asked Questions
Should You Look at the Camera During a Self Tape?
If you are going to be shooting yourself on video, be sure that you are always looking at the camera. This makes it possible for you to talk to your audience.
How Do You Make a Good Self Tape?
To be able to make a good self tape, you will need to have the right content.
Next, you need to have the right gear to take your videos.
Plus, you might want to prepare your accessories from your microphone to the lighting.
Plus, you might want to have a tripod whenever you are using any of these cameras.
Are Ring Lights Good for Self Tapes?
You see a lot of people using ring lights on Vlogs and their YouTube content.
Is it an ideal setup to have ring lights?
If you don’t have natural light to provide proper lighting for your videos, then this could definitely be a good option.
Also, you get to control the light more if you have a ring light and you don’t just rely on natural light.
Concluding Remarks
Without any idea where to start, looking at the list of best cameras for self taping can be a bit confusing and sometimes intimidating.
The good thing with this list is that you get to compare the cameras based on their price, features, and even their versatility.
If you are decided to buy one, be sure to weigh these things that we have mentioned to be able to get the best value for your money.
Be sure that you are going to compare a few cameras on this list first before you make up your mind.
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.
