Choosing your first cinema camera

Start with the story

A cinema camera is a tool, not a trophy. Before comparing spec sheets, be honest about the work you shoot most often.

Sensor and codec

Super 35 remains the workhorse for narrative work, while full frame buys you shallower depth of field and cleaner low light. Internal 10-bit recording matters far more than raw resolution for most productions.

• Super 35 — familiar field of view, wide lens choice
• Full frame — shallower depth, better low light
• 10-bit 4:2:2 — the practical baseline for grading

Rig for the day, not the year

Rent the body, then rent the accessories that match the shoot: a matte box for exteriors, a follow focus for dialogue, a light kit for interiors.

Test the workflow before the shoot day. A camera you cannot offload quickly will cost you the edit.