Discover the best film camera for movies in 2025. We have evaluated camera bodies here, from beginner-friendly models to professional gear – find the ideal camera for your style and budget.
The camera body is the heart of your equipment when shooting video and should be carefully chosen when starting out in videography. Here are our experts' top recommendations for every budget in 2025:
1. High-Tier: Sony FX6
If budget is no object and you value convincing performance, the Sony FX6 is the right choice. This full-frame camera records stunning 4K videos at up to 120 frames per second and shines with a remarkable dynamic range of over 15 stops. The camera also features a dual base ISO setting with an integrated ND filter, delivering professional video quality and making the FX6 a powerhouse for cinematic storytelling.
With a price of just under $6,000, this camera body offers everything you need for professional filmmaking. If you want to go even higher, the RED Helix 8K Pro and Sony Venice 2 are particularly noteworthy. They can record up to 6K and 8K but come with a hefty price tag of several thousand dollars. For most professional applications, the FX6 is sufficient and offers top performance in 2025.
2. Mid-Range: Panasonic Lumix S5 II/X/Sony FX3
The mid-range cameras under $5,000 are the Panasonic Lumix S5 II/X and the Sony FX3. We believe both are the best budget film cameras in 2025 without compromising on performance. We love the S5 II/X for its impressive 6K open-gate video recording, which can also be downscaled to 4K/60fps – sufficient for most professional applications.
Similar to the FX6, the S5 offers a dynamic range of over 14 stops but is significantly cheaper. It also features good phase-detection AF and IBIS that work flawlessly.
The Sony FX3 is the little brother of the FX6 but significantly cheaper, more compact, with fan cooling, and excellent autofocus. Both camera systems are suitable for different shooting styles and environments, making them an excellent option in the mid-price range.
3. For Beginners: ZV-E10 & EOS R10
For beginners, the Sony ZV-E10 Mark II and Canon EOS R10 are the best film cameras for affordable films, as both offer an excellent entry into video recording. The Canon can record videos at up to 60 frames per second in 4K, the Sony ZV at up to 30 frames per second in 4K, but is incredibly compact and was a big success with Sony's first model.
The R10 is also a good choice. Although it is somewhat more expensive than the ZV-E10 II, it offers higher resolution, a fantastic Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, and is quite lightweight. Both models from these manufacturers are a good choice if you are just starting with videography and don't want to spend thousands of dollars. The good thing is that these cameras do not make too many compromises on technical specs and can still create professional-looking videos on a small budget.
Best Budget Lens for Films 2025
No matter which model you choose: without a camera lens designed for professional video and cinema quality, your camera body is useless. The SIRUI Venus is a worthwhile option compatible with all the camera bodies mentioned above and optimized for capturing stunning videos in cinema resolution (2.8:1 or 2.4:1, depending on the camera sensor).
Thanks to its anamorphic design, this lens enables cinematic shots with its 1.6x squeeze. It preserves video details down to the finest point and offers impressive low-light performance thanks to the ultra-bright T2.9 aperture. You also get unique lens flares and a cinematic oval bokeh that gives your video a more professional and deeper look.
Summary:
The camera bodies mentioned above are the best film cameras for every budget and should be chosen based on your current skills, budget, and work requirements. The SIRUI Venus camera lens unlocks the true potential of these camera bodies with its ultra-bright T2.9 aperture, anamorphic optics, and 1.6x squeeze for cinematic shots at an unbeatable price.
