Using a Camcorder for Video (vs DSLR / Mirrorless)
In this guide, we'll examine why you should consider using a camcorder for your movie-making this year rather than mirrorless or DSLR cameras.
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For many filmmakers, a camcorder is better than a DSLR or mirrorless camera for video.
Despite the latest technology in modern DSLR and mirrorless cameras, a dedicated video camera provides key benefits for shooting video.
Many YouTubers choose digital cameras rigged with various accessories. But broadcast-style camcorders still reign supreme for certain uses.
I’ve used mirrorless cameras, DSLRs and camcorders to record footage. They all have pros and cons.
In this guide, we’ll examine why you should consider using a camcorder for your movie-making.
10 Reasons to Use a Camcorder vs. DSLR & Mirrorless Cameras for YouTube & Vlogging
Image: Anthony Adu
Let’s look closer at why Youtubers and Vloggers prefer camcorders.
Camcorders are videocentric and are optimized for this purpose.
They have long recording times, a built-in zoom and a body designed for lengthy shoots.
Ultimately, the choice will depend on your creative vision as an aspiring cinematographer.
1. Video-Specific
Camcorders are number one when it comes to videoing. After all, they were designed specifically for the task.
Everything from the placement of their controls to their videocentric designed body.
A quality camcorder aims to produce ultra-high-definition film. So, use it correctly, and you will get high-definition videos.
Camcorders are user-friendly, and there is no need to configure settings. The controls and buttons are dedicated to videoing.
2. Compact
When videoing on the move, the last thing you want is to be bogged down with heavy equipment.
Filming with a mirrorless camera can involve the use of extra equipment.
Microphones, tripods, and extra lenses are some of the additional components needed.
All of this will add to your baggage weight.
The camcorder conveniently has everything needed for filming contained within one unit.
Organizing your video shoot will be a cinch without the hassle of tangled cords.
And you won’t have to worry about losing or forgetting equipment.
Compact, lightweight and portable, the camcorder is the ideal video travel companion.
3. Comfortable and Ergonomically Designed
Image: Daniel Lincoln
Camcorder’s bodies are designed for filming, making them ideal for extended video shoots.
DSLR and mirrorless cameras are designed to take one quick shot at a time.
The mirrorless camera ends up being awkward and cumbersome for lengthy filming sessions.
Particularly if it doesn’t have an electronic viewfinder and has to be held at eye level.
Camcorders fit snuggly into your hand and often come with a handy strap for extra support.
The strap is fantastic for keeping the camera steady and secure.
This is especially useful when you shoot video at awkward angles or while hanging off a speed boat.
When shooting in Asia, I found my camcorder was a hundred times more comfortable to use than my DSLR.
Filming all day did not feel like a strain, which was ideal when I was videoing daily.
4. Camera Shake Detection
Camcorders are designed to accommodate unavoidable shakes and hand quivers.
They have intelligent built-in programs to detect and neutralize camera shakes.
The camcorder is the best choice if you need steady video footage, especially if you can’t use a tripod.
It is perfect for YouTubers and vloggers who film events, travel or adventure footage.
Such as horseback riding in the Rocky Mountains or live footage of Burning Man.
A DSLR or mirrorless camera does come with built-in image stabilization. However, it isn’t as effective on video footage.
5. Built-in Zoom Lens
Image: Kevin Gonzalez
Camcorders have a powerful built-in optical zoom designed to shoot video.
These specially calibrated zoom lenses excel at autofocusing and tracking moving objects.
They can zoom in to capture distant objects or people you can’t get physically close to.
It is ideal for travel bloggers, events or for filming distant objects.
I use the camcorder’s zoom action to capture creative videos of city life. I used the pan and zoom action to create the illusion that I was getting closer to an object.
Swapping the DSLR and mirrorless camera lens for a zoom lens is possible, but not instantly, like a camcorder.
A digital camera’s zoom lens will add to the bulk and weight of the camera, making it heavy when shooting.
6. Swivel and Twist Viewfinder Screen
Many camcorders sport a swivel and twist articulating screen. This is incredibly handy for composing shots.
The camcorder screen is superior to digital cameras when it comes to flexibility.
There is room to shoot from creative angles and experiment with different perspectives.
The articulating screen displays both the videoed scene and the controls.
Image: Polina Tankilevitch
So you can monitor battery life and remaining recording time while filming.
The swivel screen is extra handy when shooting in bright light or odd positions.
You can move the screen to face you while shooting in the opposite direction.
Finally, it enables you to compose self-videos, viewing yourself while filming.
Making it ideal for content creators who include themselves in the video recording.
7. Superior Microphone
Camcorders have a superior microphone to digital cameras. They record surround sound without buzz and prioritize sound quality.
Most have omnidirectional recording, but there is the option to attach specialized microphones.
YouTubers who have talk shows prefer to use a professional interview microphone.
8. Recording Length
Camcorders have longer continuous recording times than their DSLR camera counterparts.
Vloggers and Youtubers want to take mountains of video. So they have ample footage to edit down for the prime clips.
With a camcorder, there are fewer storage limitations and no need to change memory cards.
They are designed to film for extended time so that the battery won’t fatigue as quickly as a digital camera.
9. Video Quality
Camcorder video quality ranges from high to ultra-high-definition.
Giving exceptional results for video uploads to blogs and YouTube.
Digital cameras can produce better-quality video footage in low light.
However, they struggle to make high-quality footage when panned.
Image: Kal Visuals
10. Long Battery Life
Camcorders are designed to video all day long without draining their battery.
This is important for vloggers recording on the go and minimizing the risk of getting stuck with a dead battery.
A digital camera was not made to be a video camera and will quickly deplete the battery when filming.
What are the Disadvantages of Video Cameras vs. DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras
Image: Zach Ramelan
We have heard the positives, so what are the drawbacks?
1. Less Versatility
Camcorders do not have the overall versatility that digital cameras have.
They were designed to be used as a video camera, not to be used for photography.
Although individual video frames can be used as a photograph.
Their quality will be poor compared to a professional DSLR or mirrorless camera.
Unlike a digital camera, which can seamlessly change from video to camera.
2. Restriction on Lens Choices
You are restricted to filming with a camcorder’s built-in lens.
It won’t be possible to swap lenses for different visual effects.
Although the camcorder lens suits many filming purposes, it lacks diverse artistic capabilities.
DSLR and Mirrorless cameras, on the other hand, have a range of lenses available.
Giving lots of room for experimentation when videoing.
Camcorder users, unfortunately, won’t be able to avail of these creative options.
3. Control and Creative Expression
Camcorders rely on automatic exposure settings that don’t offer the same level of control.
The camcorder will decide on the video’s exposure and depth of field.
Using a camcorder, the creative input of the videographer will be restricted.
Image: Ron Lach
4. Low Light Capabilities
Camcorders are ideal in well-lit locations like a sunny day or a brightly lit studio.
Change the scene to twilight or a dimly lit nightclub, and the video will be underexposed.
Camcorders are not designed to shoot video footage in low light.
The reason for this is camcorders have smaller image sensors than mirrorless cameras.
A large sensor is essential for capturing higher-quality footage in low light.
DSLR and mirrorless camera’s larger sensors equip them for taking videos in low light.
5. More Expensive
A good camcorder can be pricey. It might not be worth it if you don’t intend to use it frequently.
Digital and mirrorless cameras are cheaper in comparison.
If you don’t plan to shoot extensively, you can use digital cameras instead of video cameras.
What are the Disadvantages of Using a DSLR Camera as a Video Camera
1. Memory, Battery and More
Usually, a DSLR camera will have limitations on its recording time. Typically, recording is capped at 30 minutes.
This can create problems for videographers who regularly shoot interviews or events.
Another problem is that the camera’s battery life will restrict your recording time.
Shooting video on DSLR tends to drain the battery quicker than camcorders.
One way to combat this problem is to carry backup batteries when videoing.
But unfortunately, DSLRs aren’t made to shoot for an extended time.
You might have backup batteries packed and extra memory cards.
You are prepared, but sorry, the DSLR tends to overheat when shooting film.
And let you down in the middle of a spectacular once-in-a-lifetime shoot.
Image: Qviews
2. Lens Compatability
You will need to check the compatibility of the DSLR lens for video. An older DSLR camera might not sport the correct lens.
Camera lenses are not designed for film, although they can do the job. Lenses such as fish eye or longer focal length lenses will distort.
A digital camera lacks the fast-tracking capabilities of a camcorder for recording moving objects.
The autofocus of some digital cameras can lag, making it hard to use them when filming moving objects.
3. Focus
The DSLR camera was not designed for motion pictures and is not quick to auto-focus.
This will make it challenging to film a moving object and keep it in focus.
DSLRs are advancing daily and today sport an autofocus that can be used in video mode.
However, their autofocus can fall short of desired outcomes. They are not yet as accurate or reliable as camcorders.
Camcorders are the better option when it comes to filming moving objects. They have an advanced autofocus, which can seamlessly track moving objects.
4. Sound Quality
The in-built microphones are not entirely up to scratch for capturing quality sound.
They will pick up unnecessary background noise and can add in extra unwanted buzz.
You can solve this easily by investing in a quality external microphone.
The only drawback to this is you will have to remember to pack it when heading out to film.
5. Rolling Shutter Effect
The SLR digital camera is prone to what is known as a rolling shutter effect.
This can happen when a video pans quickly across a scene. The video footage will appear to stutter as it moves.
The rolling shutter effect can also occur when a moving object is videoed.
Image: Los Muertos
6. Ergonomic Design
SLR digital cameras weren’t designed to be held in a video pose for long periods.
Unlike camcorders, they aren’t fashioned to fit snuggly into your hand.
It can be tiresome to shoot using a heavy and cumbersome DSLR camera.
It is worth using extra support when shooting video using a DSLR camera for long periods.
A tripod is best if you don’t need to shoot video on the move.
Let’s face it: DSLR was designed to take single shots, not video.
7. Display Screen
Not all DSLR cameras sport a display screen; some might only have a viewfinder.
Camcorders come with a twist and swivel display screen. This is far superior for shooting videos from a range of angles.
Swivel display screens are every adventure Vloggers best friend.
Holding a DSLR to your face to video for extended periods would be challenging.
Conclusion
Camcorders are superior at capturing events, interviews and daily life.
They are far better at focusing automatically and tracking moving objects.
Although not all avenues of artistic expression will be open to you when using one. They still offer a vast array of video techniques to experiment with.
If shooting video is your primary focus, then a camcorder is your best option.
You will want a digital camera if your video requires lens changes and low-light filming.
In the end, the best choice of video camera will depend on your task.
But why not indulge your creativity and use both, like many professional vloggers?
- Read more: Guide to Buying Vintage Camcorders
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Judyth is an experienced studio photographer and glass artist. When she isn’t Photoshopping comedians into the bellies of sharks, you can find her cooking delicious treats for her guests.
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I don’t disagree with some of this article but it feels like there are points being made that don’t really hold any water or are just not related. The entire Lens Compatibility section doesn’t really make sense while also spelling compatibility wrong.
“You will need to check the compatibility of the DSLR lens for video. An older DSLR camera might not sport the correct lens.”
While true that you need to know your cameras mount, “might not sport the correct lens” doesn’t really make sense as you can just get the “correct” lens. Lens choices are entirely up to the end user and whatever their goal is so it’s more up to them and what they’re looking to get out of their video. Most DSLR mounts have been around for so long at this point that there’s a plethora of options to choose from to give whatever look you desire.
“Camera lenses are not designed for film, although they can do the job. Lenses such as fish eye or longer focal length lenses will distort.”
Again true to a fault, you can use whatever lens you want. For sports or events, sure I can see this being true but to say camera (I’m assuming you mean DSLR/Mirrorless lenses) aren’t designed for film is just a misleading statement to make. Plenty of amateur and professional filmmakers will use DSLR/Mirrorless cameras and lenses because they have benefits that are not offered by camcorders. Cameras like the Sony A7SII and FX3 have been and will be used for film because they have more options for certain looks that just can’t be achieved on camcorders. Also, the line about fisheye lenses having distortion is not a good example because that’s the whole reason they’re made. To be distorted and have a distinct look. If you want an ultra wide lens look for a rectilinear lens.
“A digital camera lacks the fast-tracking capabilities of a camcorder for recording moving objects.”
This doesn’t have much to do with lens compatibility to some degree but many modern mirrorless cameras have fantastic autofocus and great tracking. Regardless, you don’t want autofocus if you’re making a movie or doing filmmaking like this article implies. You want to be in control of everything for your shot so you know you’re nailing everything and autofocus just leaves the focus up to chance and the capabilities of the camera/lens combo.
The autofocus of some digital cameras can lag, making it hard to use them when filming moving objects.
“Not all DSLR cameras sport a display screen; some might only have a viewfinder.”
What DSLR’s don’t have a display screen? I’m hard pressed to think of any DSLR that doesn’t have a display. Some don’t have tilting and swiveling screens but that’s becoming even more prevalent now. Even the Canon T3i from 2011 has a tilting and swiveling screen.
“SLR digital cameras weren’t designed to be held in a video pose for long periods.
Unlike camcorders, they aren’t fashioned to fit snuggly into your hand.
It can be tiresome to shoot using a heavy and cumbersome DSLR camera.
It is worth using extra support when shooting video using a DSLR camera for long periods.
A tripod is best if you don’t need to shoot video on the move.
Let’s face it: DSLR was designed to take single shots, not video.”
This just feels baseless and not have any real support behind the arguments being made. Sure some DSLR’s don’t have as comfortable of a grip but that doesn’t mean they aren’t “fashioned to fit snuggly into your hand”. If a photographer can hold the camera up ready in position for long periods of time, why can’t the same be done for video, when you’re not holding it any differently. There’s also no mention of what the “video pose” is so what’s the point of including it. Also yes it can be “tiresome to shoot using a heavy and cumbersome DSLR”. But it can also be just as tiresome and cramp inducing to use a more prograde camcorder for any extended period of time from the older Canon GL2’s to modern Panasonic HMC series camcorders. Sure DSLR was initially designed for photography, the lighter builds and now smaller builds of the mirrorless camera have ushered in a new era for filmmaking with smaller, lighter cameras that are just as capable and fit be in the hand.
“The DSLR camera was not designed for motion pictures and is not quick to auto-focus.”
This is true that the DSLR was not made for filmmaking, no motion picture creator who is serious about their work is using autofocus. Some might use it on occasion but there’s no point in using for a film as it’s too unpredictable and not up to the end user how the camera locks focus or racks focus.
You also mention that the DSLR overheats while filming. While true this mostly only exists in Mirrorless cameras that are shooting in 4k or higher because they’re packing so much more into a smaller package. Any DSLR that’s just shooting 1080p video will be fine beyond maybe the 30 minute mark but unless you’re making a short film that’s one long take, this is nothing to worry about.
You started the article by stating, “In this guide, we’ll examine why you should consider using a camcorder for your movie-making this year rather than mirrorless or DSLR cameras.” but end with “Camcorders are superior at capturing events, interviews and daily life.” which is different and not what the article is about. Furthermore you say at the end, “If shooting video is your primary focus, then a camcorder is your best option.” and follow this two sentences later with, “In the end, the best choice of video camera will depend on your task.” the latter half of which is true but feels weird to say “for video, camcorders are best” and then say “the best camera depends on what you want to do”. I agree, it completely depends on what you want to do and if that thing is filmmaking camcorders are not what you should go for because you need lens options, better depth of field and better sensitivity with your sensor in different lighting scenarios. If you’re doing events, interviews, or other scenarios where you’re often locked off and filming for extended periods, camcorder is the way to go. Portions of this article feel like a stretch and feel more like opinion that are to be taken as fact. While not a bad article, I feel some of it should be looked over again.
Thanks for your feedback, Glenn. I agree with some of your points but disagree on others – however, I appreciate you putting so much time into a comment! As always, I’ll pass the feedback on to the author who I’m sure will take on your advice when the next article is written, or we come to update this one.
Good article. I ggree with most of what’s been said.
The only thing I would add is that top- end camcorders will give you all the same creative manual control is a DSLR or Mirrorless.
Shutter speed, aperture, gain (iso) they’re all manually adjustable to anything you want. My HC-X2 even offers colour channel and matrix adjustments on the fly, asking with HLG, VLOG etc etc.
It’s a LONG list !
Even frame capture is much higher quality now due to scene files that simulate still camera settings, although bokeh is inevitably less evident. But then that’s not always needed.
In my experience the only two real advantages of DSLR/ Mirrorless cameras is low light and shallower depth of field, and even then in video making bokeh isn’t really as important as it is in photography, so that just leaves low light.
In everything else, for video, the camcorder makes more sense.
I think there are a lot of folks out there who just buy what they see everyone else buying when in fact its often not the best thing for what they need.
That’s why camcorders don’t sell as well. Everyone buys what the pros influence them to buy, even though they themselves are not pros and would be better served with something else.
Anyone else old enough to remember the old VHS and Betamax cassette video recorders back in the 80s?
Well, for video (only), camcorders are like Betamax recorders, the better system of the two, but Mirrorless cameras are like the old VHS recorders, not as good (for video), but everyone gets one coz everyone else has got one.
My advice is for folks is to each walk their own path and not just follow the herd.
If (and only if) you have absolutely no interest in stills photography, do yourself a favour and choose a top end camcorder for video. They really are a better choice.
Sounds like good advice Neal.