Ok, so I’m looking to buy an entry level full frame camera to make social media content from it. And the cameras I’ve been used to through renting (sony a7s) are all expensive. So I’m wondering what is the cheapest possible camera body I can buy now which will have a good balance of new features and quality. Dont mind getting a used one also. Must have 4K support, bonus if it has 120 fps. We already have an iPhone 16 Pro. The camera I need is for more cinematic shots, food close ups, better handling of lights, etc.. I already use an a7 for this on rent, now need to buy…
Lumix s5 ii x would be a good choice. Their new autofocus while not at the same level as sony’s, is still very usable.
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If you are only going to post on social media, I would highly recommend just starting with an Iphone/Samsung phones like S25/U if you already have one.
This advice is mostly only applicable for vlog/talking style videos, not for cinematic scenes or nature videography.
Sound makes so much difference in video quality perception, so just get a good quality lav/shotgun.
99% of the audience will not complain if you shot on iPhone 17 instead of a professional camera, as long as you have great audio.
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We already have an iPhone 16 Pro. The camera I need is for more cinematic shots, food close ups, better handling of lights, etc.. I already use an a7 for this on rent, now need to buy…
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Canon R8
RF lenses are expensive but if you use with an adapter, you have a large selection of EF lenses. EF-S lenses don’t work for Full frame cameras.
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Your output is going to go down, that’s just the reality of a complicated work flow.
Consider a S25 Ultra (any galaxy ultra actually) for closeups.
Consider an anamorphic lens for the cine look.
If it must be a camera, then last-gen A7 series is the sweet spot right now in the used market (a7m3).
What would you recommend for a starter?
For full frame mirrorless? Anything from Sony’s A7 series, the used market is saturated with them, so you’ll get good value. Lens selection is excellent especially with third party options.
Nikon and and Canon are the traditional options but they’re better suited for people who know that they want Nikon or Canon (people who shot on SLRs previously).
Old world advice was along the lines of “get a body, a prime lens, and come back after 10,000 photos.”
Still holds true these days.
For abstract inspiration, consider carrying with you some form of oblique strategies:
I use an app.
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Folks, if the person is looking for a camera, let’s recommend them a camera and not try to second-guess their decision.
Nikon Canon Sony are the most used brands in India, everything else is not as popular. While Panasonic may be an excellent system for video with features that the top three sometimes don’t offer in the same price range, compared to the top three it hardly occupies any market share here in India. This is very important to consider, because it’s easier to buy/sell gear of a popular brand because demand-supply both exist in spades. You’re buying into a system, not just buying a camera, just remember that OP. So unless you really need a feature that the top three don’t offer in your budget or unless you’re absolutely sure that Panasonic is the right system for you, I wouldn’t bother with it. If you’re sure it’s the right system for you, then that’s great, nothing like it. Just be sure when you buy because buying/reselling gear can be a PITA and more expensive than the top three.
Source: I use Panasonic cameras.
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Guys let me clarify one thing. And I’m well versed with using full frames, I’ve shot a lot with these just never bought them, always rented them. My prefered brands are Sony, Canon, and BlackMagic - because I like their UI the best. Sony has great low light and flat profiles and Canon has great colors in rec709 mode for food.
Ha, you might as well be jio bhai asking us plebs where to get the freshest caviar.
If this is for professional work then your question is a little out of place. What you’re talking about is far removed from what people do with entry-level cameras.
What defines best value for you?
A7M1 with a missing battery door for 15K? A7M3 for 25k below Amazon price?
Buy new and claim depreciation when you do taxes, that’s the simplest advice here.
Maybe it’ll help put the question into a better frame (ha) if you tell us how much you were spending on renting in a year?
I got a mirrorless camera last year instead of spending the same amount on a flagship phone and the itch to upgrade the phone the every next year stopped instantly. Sure the workflow seems tedious but there is absolutely no match to the pictures.
My suggestion is to also factor in the brand and third party lenses along with just focussing on vfm. Viltrox is flooding the market with some of the best third party lenses right now. Third party lenses will save you alot of money if you are going with mirrorless camera.
So, what kind of help do you need?
First decide what features you absolutely need, your use cases, and go from there.
For example, put in chatgpt “i need this this this feature and this this this will be my main use cases, help me find the best body + lens combos sorted by cost in ascending order. Include used and new both options.” Then narrow further by budget and what system you want.
This is a great use case for chatgpt as it will automate the spec sheet-baded scouring for you.
Then come back and share your analysis and results, and we’ll discuss any additional points from real life use cases. We’ll be happy to share experiences, do jugalbandi and give our 2 paise.
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I am in the same boat as op, I am thinking of buying one for my hobby work. At work (marketing guy) I have access to Lumix GH6, It’s pretty good camera, but the kit lens is not that good.
If you’re moving to full frame mirrorless, you can use an adapter to get cheaper but high quality lenses especially in the old EF series.
I use an L mount to EF adapter with my lumix s5 when I feel I need something more than my kit lens. (L mount lenses are hard to come by)