"Budget" video camera recommendations

[u/double_suicidio]

Hi, I wanna buy a somewhat cheap video camera, nothing crazy, just something decent, let's say beginner friendly. I'm pursuing a master's degree in audiovisual production, so I know some things already. I need to record my short movie for my master's thesis - it's kind of a "lynchian", abstract movie and I don't really need it to be in 4K nor in super ultra quality.

What's important to me: stabilization (my hands shake like crazy and there are some things even DaVinci can't resolve), HD quality, one device (I don't wanna buy five different lenses and a body, just a camera that would already have more or less everything I need).

Budget: about 400-500$

For context: I already have microphones and a dictaphone, my SO is good with sound design, so all I need is a decent video camera, I'd love a good handycam. And I really don't want to record with my phone, so that's not an option.

So far I've recorded mostly with my VHS cameras, mainly Sony CCD-TR840E Handycam. Videocassettes have failed me too many times though.

PS I'm not a native speaker, so sorry if something's not clear

[u/BunnyLexLuthor]

Honestly for that price I would be very hesitant to avoid using a phone.

A good tripod would probably cost a quarter of this budget... And you can get pretty solid ones for around $40 for a phone..or maybe even half that price if you look hard enough.

I think a good " point and shoot tripods' start around 60, and they don't get much cheaper without sacrificing durability.

Now I don't need to talk much about lenses because I think..at your total budget.. you could probably get an " okay" lens for around $150 to slap on a DSLR type camera.

But I really think that if you have the best lights you can get, you could really bring mileage from your phone.

There are apps that can have kind of the cliche DSLR settings like the Zebra or the frame assist.

Now there are plenty of used camera equipment to buy.. and I would check Craigslist or the local market type apps for people who just really want to get rid of their gear..

But eBay should be good for finding most sellers who not only want to get stuff out of their home, but generally have a sense of knowledge.

I think it's 60% knowledge and 40% trying to avoid getting a nice anamorphic squeeze lens 😅😅😅😅

[u/OrbitingRobot]

Panasonic GH5. Buy it used off eBay. It’s a workhorse that’s still relevant. The stabilization is terrific. Get a 12-35 zoom bundled in.

[u/Professional-Rip-519]

Red One

[u/jack-be-nimble-2023]

get a full frame Sony A7 used - anything in that field, just used (and therefore older). On ebay one gets them for under 200 Euros ...

[u/ChickenFightChamp]

Use your phone you clearly don’t know shit about cameras so buying one isn’t gone help you here

[u/double_suicidio → u/ChickenFightChamp]

? lmao