Filmmaking, acting and auditioning continues to become a more independent practice. As actors and potentially filmmakers, we’re not able to simply buy our own cheap equipment, find best cheap DSLR cameras, and self-tape our auditions or even shoot a few short films to get a show reel put together, or attract some attention and IMDb credits.
The best way to go about this is put together a small filmmaking equipment kit for acting goals. It won’t cost an arm and a leg, and will primarily involve a decent quality (yet affordable) DSLR or mirror-less camera and some basic additions to it. Having a good friend (preferably also an actor) help you out can be a good idea too.
If you’re an actor looking for the best cheap DSLR cameras out there, then this article has got you covered. You really don’t have to spend a fortune to get the quality you’re looking for. Obviously there are top of the range ones out there, but the cheaper versions will do a good job too at producing quality videos for your goals as an actor. After all, you’re not making the next Avengers movie.
Some of the best cheap DSLR cameras offer amazing quality and greater manual control. You also have the added bonus of being able to change the lenses, which you can save for the future. Of course if you want lots of added features then you will have to pay more for them but if not then there are plenty of cheap DSLRs out there that offer everything an actor may require.
So let’s take a look at some of the best cheap DSLR cameras that are currently on the market.
READ ALSO: 12 Tips on How to Choose a DSLR Camera for Self-Tapes
What Are The Best Cheap DSLR Cameras For Actors To Use?
1. Nikon D3300
This DSLR offers amazing results for the price you’ll be paying. It offers great image quality and has a 24.2 megapixel sensor. You will be getting lots of detail with the least amount of image noise. To maximise on the sharpness you’ll be getting there is no anti aliasing filter.
This camera has a guide mode this will provide you with great information of all the important features and the kit lens is collapsible, so is perfect for when you are out and about. There is no WiFi connectivity but with Nikon they do make Plug in WiFi adaptors. This is a great DSLR and would make the perfect choice for an actor.
2. Canon EOS 750D (Rebel T6i)
This DSLR will offer you stunning images thanks to the 24.2 megapixel sensor and you will be getting low noise levels at high ISO sensitivities. This DSLR offers autofocus and also exposure metering systems. There is WiFi built in and you can also enjoy the touch sensitive screen.
The quality this DSLR offers is outstanding and you have more comprehensive controls, the image quality will provide you with great looking videos that will be ideal for an actor.
3. Nikon D5300
This is a great looking DSLR and it has a 24.3 mega pixel sensor and has a four image processor. It also has a 39 point autofocus system. It doesn’t have touch screen control but you do get GPS with this one.
This is one of the very best DSLRs that are on the market and at such a great price. It will produce high quality videos that you will be proud to show off. It is a great choice for a beginner or an enthusiast.
4. Canon EOS 700 (Rebel T5i)
This DSLR offers superb ergonomics and offers the user a touch sensitive screen. It has a 9 point autofocus system but with this DSLR there is no WiFi.
This one is perfect if you’re a beginner just starting out, the price is amazing and you will be producing quality videos. Canon is one of the leaders in DSLRs and it’s not hard to see why, the quality is spot on.
5. Pentax K-S1
This DSLR is amazing and would make the perfect choice for an actor. It has illuminated controls which makes it stand out from the crowd. It really is a great looking beast. There is more to this DSLR than just looks though, it offers a 20 megapixel sensor and has no anti aliasing filter which means sharper images.
This DSLR also offers Shake Reduction system which is sensor based. The price of this DSLR is great and if you’re looking for a cheap DSLR then you won’t go wrong with this one.
6. Nikon D3200
Considering the low price on this one you really will be getting a lot for your money, it really is a bargain, and you will be creating quality videos with amazing features. It offers 24.2 megapixels which is just awesome, so you’re guaranteed incredible results with this one.
It also offers 5 frames per second continuous filming speed, which is amazing, considering the price. This DSLR doesn’t have built in WiFi but that’s not a problem because with Nikon they do make plug in WiFi adaptors, which are cheap to purchase.
7. Nikon D5500
This DSLR is awesome and offers up to date features, it has touch screen control and there is built in WiFi. There is no GPS but it does have live view auto focusing speed.
This DSLR offers 24.2 megapixels so as you can imagine the image quality is amazing and it offers a non anti aliased sensor, which means sharper images. This DSLR offers excellent image quality and for an actor this one should definitely be on your list.
8. Canon EOS 1200D (Rebel T5)
For the price you’ll be paying for this one you’ll be amazed at the quality, it’s incredible and should definitely be high up on your list. It has an 18megapixel sensor which is perfect for creating images and videos.
It offers 3 frames per second continuous filming speed. So if you’re looking for a great looking DSLR at a fantastic price then you won’t beat this one, the quality you’ll be getting for the price you’ll be paying is amazing and Canon are one of the leaders when it comes to DSLRs.
9. Pentax K-50
This DSLR is awesome and if you’re out and about a lot in all weathers then you’ll appreciate the fact that it’s weatherproof. It is both rain and dust resistant, this would normally cost quite a bit of money but not with the Pentax K-50. You get a weatherproof DSLR at an amazing price. You will be able to film in all conditions, which of course if you’re an actor you do have to do.
You will have to get weather resistant lenses in order to really see maximum benefits. This DSLR also offers a Shake Reduction System which reduces camera shake. Skewed horizons can also be corrected with this clever device. All in all it’s a great option if you know you are going to be filming in all sorts of weather.
Summary
Finding the the best cheap DSLR cameras to self-tape your auditions or film a short movie isn’t that difficult when you look where to look, and – more importantly – what to look for, and what aspects of the camera to prioritize in your selection.
Try and have a budget in mind and do all you can to stick to it, look around for the best prices and deals – there are bargains out there. For an actor to have a DSLR on hand can be of huge help.
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