'Movie capable' series 2: find your ideal camera for video

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If you’re looking for outstanding video capabilities, how do you pick the right camera? The first step is to decide what you plan to shoot and what functions you’ll need. To help you, here’s a quick tour of three of our popular ranges – based on what you might create with them.

AX700, RX100M5, RX10M4

Compact quality – ideal for vloggers: RX100 Series (M3, M4 and M5)

These models are small, light and super-easy to transport. M4 and M5 shoot 4K video; M3 shoots top-quality Full HD.

They all feature flip screens so you can compose your shot and take selfies, while lenses with a minimum focal length of 24mm let you frame yourself easily (without cutting off part of your face!) Shallow depth of field gives you stylish bokeh (defocussed background blur), meaning more attractive close-ups as you isolate yourself against your background.

The RX100 Series also has the powerful combination of bright lenses and ISO sensitivity; you can shoot in low light and the resulting footage has limited ‘noise’ (digital distortion).

In-camera super slow motion used to be available only on pro cameras, but RX100M4 and M5 can record at 40x normal frame rate. If you love vlogs that set the scene with atmospheric establishing shots (for instance), this should give you some ideas about what you could create.

Great for advanced video: RX10M3 and RX10M4

These cameras have pro-style manual operation, meaning you get more creative control. They have professional video capabilities and record precision 4K UHD.

For advanced users, S-Log Picture Profile settings are tailored to a professional workflow. With S-Log’s extra dynamic range, you can correctly expose both the brightest and darkest spots in high contrast scenes (e.g. a bright sky, but also areas of your face in shadow.)

RX10M3 and RX10M4 also have advanced AF Tracking and image stabilisation, an output for an external mic and an ‘MI’ hot shoe for accessories. Check out super slow motion on the M3 as well. These two models are a fantastic choice for creative videos or even interviews.

The dedicated video camera with pro features: AX Series camcorders

If you want a camera purely for video, these are well-worth considering. Designed specifically for movie-shooting, they’re easy to operate with one hand. The size and weight work well for travel, family occasions, etc. They can also shoot video for longer than a stills camera can.

The FDR-AX33, AX53 and AX700 all record 4K in a professional grade format. There’s also image stabilisation to help you get the shots you want.

The advanced and highly efficient tracking system is unique to this range. Inherited from our premium Alpha cameras, it makes AX the only camcorders with high-density AF points (for better accuracy) and the ‘Eye AF’ feature (which locks on to your subject’s eye for more flattering focus).

Have a question about which camera to choose? Let our Community know in the comments below.