Last updated on December 7th, 2023
If you’re looking for the best camera for interviews, you’ll want one that is portable, easy to use, and produces high-quality video. Finding the right camera for your needs can take time and effort, especially if you’re unfamiliar with all the options.
We’ve put together a list of the 10 best cameras for interviews based on our experience and reviews from experts in the field.
Overall Best Camera for Interviews
Sony Alpha 1
First of all, the image quality of this camera is second to none. Thanks to its 50-megapixel sensor, you can expect your photos and videos to look vibrant and sharp. It also has impressive low-light performance thanks to its 15 stops of dynamic range, allowing you to shoot in dimly lit environments without sacrificing detail or clarity.
The Sony Alpha 1 also offers incredible autofocus capabilities with its 567 phase-detection AF points and 425 contrast-detection AF points. This means you’ll be able to keep up with even the fastest-moving subjects easily. And thanks to its advanced Eye AF feature, it can detect and lock onto human eyes with exceptional accuracy – perfect for getting those close-up shots during an interview.
Finally, the Sony Alpha 1 offers 4K video recording at up to 120 frames per second (fps) for stunning slow-motion footage. Its built-in mic jack allows you to plug in external microphones for high-quality audio recording easily. It’s large 3″ LCD touchscreen makes it easy to control settings on the fly while shooting your interview.
What We Like/Dislike About the Sony Alpha 1
Like:
- Captures incredible detail and sharpness
- Blazingly fast AF
- Super-fast burst shooting capabilities
- Combines speed and resolution for unparalleled performance
Dislike:
- Very expensive for many photographers
- It might be overkill for most photographic tasks
- The menu system is quite complex, and not the most user friendly
What Consumers Are Saying
“The Sony Alpha 1 is the culmination of years of innovation, delivering unparalleled speed and performance.”
“With the Sony Alpha 1, photographers can capture stunning photos with exceptional detail and clarity.”
“The Sony Alpha 1 offers a revolutionary level of control and customization that allows users to make the most out of their photography experience.”
Best Budget Camera for Interviews
Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K
The Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K offers many features for its price point. It has an impressive Super 35 sensor with 13 stops of dynamic range and dual native ISO up to 25600 for capturing clean images in low-light environments. It also shoots up to 60fps in 6K resolution, so you can get beautiful slow-motion shots without sacrificing image quality. Plus, it’s small and lightweight, making it easy to take on location or store away when unused.
Another big plus for this camera is its built-in ND filters, essential for getting the perfect exposure levels in bright conditions like those found outdoors. It also has an intuitive user interface that makes it easy to use even for beginners, and advanced features like 3D LUT support and Blackmagic RAW recording if needed. And with its USB Type-C port, you can easily attach an external hard drive or SSD for quick offloading of your footage after recording sessions.
Finally, the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K supports multiple lens mounts, including EF, MFT, and PL mount lenses, allowing you to use whatever lens best suits your needs when shooting interviews or other projects. This makes it an excellent choice for filmmakers on a budget who want professional quality without spending a fortune on their gear.
What We Like/Dislike About the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K
Like:
- Excellent image quality
- Many lens options
- Affordable compared to other cinema cameras
Dislike:
- Poor battery life
- Difficult to view screen outdoors
- Weak autofocus functions
What Consumers Are Saying
“I have been wanting this camera for a few years now. Now that we have it, it’s great. The camera has the great quality of video and picture.”
“This camera has been a great addition to our team. Using different lenses and the 3D LUTs is a great feature.”
“I’ve used the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K for interviews, and I’m very pleased with it. It produces sharp images, and the audio recording capabilities are excellent.”
Runner Up Best Camera for Interviews
Fujifilm GFX 100S
The Fujifilm GFX 100S features a 102MP, back-illuminated large format CMOS sensor that can capture stunning still images. The sensor also enables low noise levels even in high ISO settings, allowing you to shoot in dark locations. Additionally, 19 exclusive FUJIFILM Film Simulation modes are available for achieving fantastic color straight out from the camera, including Nostalgic Neg mode for a vintage feel.
The advanced phase detection autofocus system on the GFX100S enables fast 0.18 sec focusing even in low light conditions (-5.5EV). This makes it perfect for shooting interviews, as you don’t want your subjects to be left waiting while you try to focus your shot! This AF system also allows for tracking moving subjects with great accuracy, so you can get clear shots of your interviewees no matter how they move around in front of the lens.
The magnesium alloy casing of this camera is dust-resistant, weatherproof, and can be operated at temperatures as low as 14°F (-10°C). It also weighs less than 2 pounds (900g), making it easy to transport wherever your next shoot takes you! An IBIS system allows for 5fps continuous shooting and up to 6 stops of correction when used in conjunction with GF Lens OIS, so you can be sure of getting crisp images even when shooting handheld or in low light settings.
What We Like/Dislike About the Fujifilm GFX 100S
Like:
- Stabilized 102MP sensor
- Dust, splash, and freeze proof
- Dual hinge rear display
- In-camera Raw processing
- 10-bit 4K recording and F Log profile
Dislike:
- Buffer fills quickly during burst shooting
- The handgrip is small in size
- Larger lenses than expected for full-frame cameras
- Large file sizes
What Consumers Are Saying
“Amazing camera! I decided to sell all my sony a7III and Nikon d500/d800 cameras and lenses to add an extra gf lens. ”
“This camera is great for portrait and landscape photography. I love the range of film simulations, but I have yet to use all of them.”
“I’ve been using this camera for interviews, and it has been outstanding. The autofocus system is incredibly accurate, and the image quality is stunning.”
Honorable Mentions
Canon EOS C70
The Canon EOS C70 is designed with versatility in mind. It offers the flexibility to capture footage in vertical and horizontal orientations with its Electronic Image Stabilization feature. This makes it perfect for handheld shooting and mounting on your tripod or gimbal. The fully rotatable LCD screen allows you to access start/stop recording with just one hand easily. You can quickly change between shots without stopping and repositioning the camera or switching hands.
The Canon EOS C70 has two mini XLR input terminals that allow you to capture high-quality professional audio directly from your microphone or other audio devices. You can also record in a 4K 120p high-frame-rate, capturing crisp, detailed videos even when movements are fast-paced or unpredictable. And if you’re looking for an even higher level of detail, then HDR (PQ!) output provides a wider range of colors and tones, resulting in more dynamic visuals that bring your content alive!
Not only does the Canon EOS C70 offer impressive features, but it’s also straightforward to use thanks to its intuitive user interface and DIG! C DV7 image processing capabilities, making setting up the camera quick and easy.
Plus, it is equipped with dual SD card slots for XF-AVC/MP4 recordings plus Long GOP compression support, allowing longer recording times without sacrificing quality. And if that wasn’t enough, it’s also compatible with Canon’s RF lenses and their EF R lens mount adapter, giving you even more creative control over your footage.
What We Like/Dislike About the Canon EOS C70
Like:
- Ability to use RF lenses
- Outstanding ergonomics
- Intuitive touch controls
- Precise autofocus
Dislike:
- Lack of RAW recording capability
- Unusual mount points
- No SDI output is available
- Some SD card compatibility issues
What Consumers Are Saying
“I currently own 3 of these, and let me tell you, I do not regret it one bit!”
“This is the best camera for interviews that I’ve ever used. The autofocus and image stabilization is great.”
“I love this camera; it’s small and lightweight yet compelling. It has all the features you need to capture quality footage easily.”
Sony FX3
The Sony FX3 features an innovative cage-free design, making it one of the most miniature Cinema Line cameras. It offers ¼” -20 mounting points, a top handle with XLR/TRS inputs, and other features that make it easy to adapt to various shooting situations. In addition, its cooling fan allows for uninterrupted recording and effective heat sink technology. This means you can record interviews without worrying about technical hiccups or audio loss due to overheating components.
The Sony FX3 offers impressive recording capabilities up to 120p 4K 10-bit 4:2:2 quality and ISO up to 409,600; an ideal combination for capturing professional-quality interviews or documentaries with maximum detail and clarity. In addition, its S-Cinetone feature ensures accurate color reproduction in any lighting situation. And with its in-body image stabilization and Active mode for steady handheld shooting, you can be sure all your footage will stay sharp without any jarring or shaky angles caused by hand movements.
What We Like/Dislike About the Sony FX3
Like:
- Handle and XLR inputs
- A Vari-angle screen
- The capability for unlimited 4K 60p recordings
- Dual UHS-II/CFexpress A card slots
Dislike:
- No viewfinder
What Consumers Are Saying
“This camera gives some amazing results, but the battery life is much less than the Sony A7siii when compared side by side.”
“This camera is great for interviews and documentaries since the image stabilization gives crystal clear footage.”
“It’s lightweight and small enough that I can take it anywhere and be sure of getting professional quality images no matter the conditions.”
Sony PXW-Z190
The Sony PXW-Z190 offers 4K 60P recording in XAVC Long GOP format. You can record high-resolution video footage without losing any detail or color accuracy. It also lets you capture slow-motion shots at up to 60 frames per second (fps). Additionally, an HD mode allows for 1080p recording up to 120 fps for those who prefer slower speeds.
The Sony PXW-Z190 is equipped with Hybrid Image Stabilization (IS) which helps reduce camera shake and jitter when shooting handheld or uneven surfaces. This makes it much easier to get smooth footage without using a tripod or other stabilizing device. Additionally, it has a max focal length of 720mm, which allows you to zoom in on far-away objects without losing image quality or clarity.
Another great feature of the Sony PXW-Z190 is its Simple Live Solution which includes an MCX-500 live producer and RM-30BP remote control unit. This makes it easy to stream live events over the internet or broadcast them directly from the camera if needed. You can connect the camera directly to other devices, such as iPads or smartphones, using Wi-Fi or NFC technology for added convenience and flexibility during live production workflows.
What We Like/Dislike About the Sony PXW-Z190
Like:
- 4K 60p recording
- Hybrid image stabilization
- 720mm max focal length
- Electronic Variable ND
Dislike:
- No 10-bit in 4K
What Consumers Are Saying
“This one is great. The dual card slot is incredible. The picture quality in low light is excellent, and the gain doesn’t add too much noise. ”
“This camera offers a lot of features for the price. I can stream live events or broadcast directly from the camera itself.”
“The 4K 60p recording and 720mm max focal length makes it great for capturing distant objects in sharp detail.”
Canon EOS R5
The Canon EOS R5 is equipped with a 45MP CMOS sensor, designed to provide stunning image quality in even low light settings. Additionally, thanks to its 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization, you can be sure that your footage will remain sharp and clear without any unwanted blur or distortion.
This camera also comes with Dual Pixel CMOS AF II featuring 1053 selectable focusing points. This advanced autofocus system uses Deep Learning technology to track the subject’s eyes, face, and head—ensuring that your subject is always perfectly focused on the screen. And if your interviewee moves while speaking, no problem! The autofocus will adjust accordingly.
The Canon EOS R5 can record 8K raw video at up to 30fps and 4K up to 60fps with 10-bit color depth—allowing you to capture stunningly crisp footage in vivid detail. Plus, its DIGIC X processor ensures that every frame of your interview will be correctly exposed from start to finish.
What We Like/Dislike About the Canon EOS R5
Like:
- Well-established design
- Extremely adaptable stills camera
- Unbelievable autofocus capabilities
- Extended battery life
- Dependable IBIS system
Dislike:
- Pricey
- Dual memory cards will require additional cost
- Recording time restrictions when shooting video
What Consumers Are Saying
“I have used the R5 to shoot two weddings and multiple other hobby projects. It is a massive improvement over the Canon 7D2 that I was using for 4 years prior to this. ”
“The autofocus on this camera is incredible. I used it to shoot a sports event, and the focus could keep up with all the movement on the screen.”
“I have been using it for video interviews. I am always blown away by how accurately the autofocus tracks people’s eye movements—ensuring that everyone is always focused on the screen.”
Panasonic Lumix S1H
The Panasonic Lumix S1H offers top-notch image quality with its 24.2MP CMOS sensor and 14-stop dynamic range. This means you can capture more detail in darker areas while maintaining accurate colors and superb image clarity throughout the frame. The wide ISO range of 100-51200 means you can shoot in low light without sacrificing image quality, making it an ideal choice for interviews or documentaries where lighting conditions may be less than ideal.
The S1H also offers impressive video recording capabilities, including 3:2 6K24p recording; 16:9 5.9K30p DCI/UHD 4K60p internal 10-bit recording; external raw capability; Dual Native ISO settings; VFR & HFR for slow/quick motion effects; preinstalled VLog & Hybrid Log Gamma for post-production grading. This makes the camera capable of capturing stunning video no matter what your subject is or what your project demands – perfect for interviews!
Finally, the Panasonic Lumix S1H is incredibly user-friendly and intuitive compared to other cameras today. It has a touchscreen interface, customizable buttons, dials, and advanced autofocus technology so you can quickly find focus even when interviewing multiple people in rapid succession. This makes it an ideal choice for interviewing or any other type of project where speed and accuracy are paramount.
What We Like/Dislike About the Panasonic Lumix S1H
Like:
- 6K 10-bit full-frame recording
- Impressive low-light performance
- Dual IS 2 with up to 6.5 stops of stabilization
Dislike:
- No raw video capture capability
- AF’s performance is not as good as some competitors
- Bulky and heavy
What Consumers Are Saying
“The LUMIX S1H is a 6K beast and one of the best hybrid mirrorless cameras I have ever used. The 5.9k full-frame sensor is gorgeous, and the color science in this camera is fantastic.”
“The S1H is great for low light video, and it has a wide dynamic range of 14 stops, making it perfect for capturing interviews in any lighting conditions.”
“I love the dual IS2 stabilization system on this camera – it makes the footage look very smooth while keeping the subject in focus. It was beneficial for the interviews I was filming.”
Sony A7s III
The Sony a7S III has a 12.1MP Exmor RS BSI CMOS sensor and BIONZ XR processor that produce high-quality images with excellent noise reduction. It also has UHD 4K 120p 10-bit 4:2:2 internal sampling and 16-bit raw output via HDMI A port, making it ideal for capturing beautiful footage in any lighting condition.
The Fast Hybrid AF system on the Sony a7S III covers 92% of the frame with 759 PDAF points and 425 contrast detection points, giving you fast and accurate autofocus performance even in low light conditions (-6 EV). The Real-Time Eye AF feature ensures that your focus remains locked onto your subject even if their eyes move around during an interview. This ensures that all your interview footage will be sharply focused with no blurry or out-of-focus shots.
The five-axis SteadyShot INSIDE + Active IS mode on the Sony a7S III helps reduce camera shake when recording video footage so that all your interview footage will be smooth and steady even when walking or moving around while filming. This makes it easy to capture professional-looking videos without any shaky footage.
What We Like/Dislike About the Sony A7s III
Like:
- Unrivaled low-light video quality
- User-friendly Touch UI
- Flexible touchscreen monitor
- No heat issues
Dislike:
- Costlier than its predecessor at launch
- Low resolution for still photos
What Consumers Are Saying
“After many years in the RED ecosystem, I am now in the mirrorless world with the A7s iii. It is amazing – checking a lot of boxes.”
“The best low light camera around. Super sharp video quality with fast and accurate autofocus. Perfect for interviews.”
“This camera has everything I need to produce professional-looking footage – 4K 120p recording, 10-bit internal sampling, 16-bit raw output, and a great AF system. Highly recommend”
Nikon Z7 II
The 45.7MP FX-format BSI CMOS sensor and dual EXPEED 6 image processors can produce stunningly sharp images with outstanding detail and color accuracy, even in low-light settings. This makes it perfect for crisp, clear interviews that look as good on screen as in person. The enhanced autofocus system with Eye & Face Detection technology helps keep your subject focused as they move around. At the same time, Focus Shift mode lets you quickly switch between subjects without adjusting the focus manually.
The Nikon Z7 II also offers 4K UHD video recording at up to 60p with N-Log and HLG modes, allowing you to capture stunning 4K footage with HDR support. The CFexpress Type B & SD UHS-II card slots provide fast transfer speeds, so you never have to worry about running out of storage space during extended interviews. The USB Type C port allows easy connection to external monitors or other devices. The MBN11 Power Battery Pack extends battery life, so you never have to worry about running out of power during a shoot.
At the same time, Multiple Exposure, Picture Controls & TimeLapse recording let you capture creative visuals that add dynamism to any interview project. Finally, SnapBridge wireless connectivity allows you to quickly transfer your footage from the camera directly to your computer or phone for quick editing and sharing online.
What We Like/Dislike About the Nikon Z7 II
Like:
- Faster overall performance
- An expanding Nikon Z lineup
- Good ergonomics
- Impressive photography and video capabilities
- Rapid and dependable Eye AF
Dislike:
- Modest improvements from the previous model
- Competitors offer better autofocus for fast action shots
- Memory card door comes to open easily
- Competition has more advanced image stabilization systems
What Consumers Are Saying
“I snagged this compact Nikon camera at an end-of-year sale. With countless features, I’m eager to take better photos. My first outdoor venture with it impressed me—amazing wildlife shots!”
“The best camera I’ve ever owned. Perfect for interviews and portrait shots with the Eye AF tracking.”
“The best thing about this camera is the Dual EXPEED 6 image processor, which helps to capture sharp images with accurate colors in any light condition – perfect!”
Conclusion: Best Cameras for Interviews
If you’re looking to up your video interviewing game, any one of these ten cameras will serve you well. The Sony Alpha 1 is an excellent all-arounder for beginners and advanced users. The Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K is ideal if you need something lightweight and portable.
The Sony PXW-Z190 is an excellent option for interviews requiring high-quality audio. And if you want to jump into the world of 4K recording, the Canon EOS R5 is perfect for that. No matter what your budget or needs are, there’s sure to be a camera on this list that’s perfect for you.
FAQ
Which camera do most professionals use?
Professional videographers typically use digital cameras in film production due to their superior flexibility and image quality. For cinematographers, digital cinema cameras are ideal as they are designed to create film-like imagery with accurate colors, a more comprehensive dynamic range, and higher resolutions. Cameras from brands like RED, Arri, or Blackmagic Design offer powerful features like a large sensor for increased detail and shallow depth of field capabilities for impressive visuals. Professional videographers also use specific accessories such as tripods, camera support rigs, and lenses to capture stunning cinematic footage out in the field. Professional videographers will always choose the best camera for their particular shoot situation.
Are DSLR cameras good for interviews?
DSLR cameras are among the most popular for professionals looking to capture quality, professional-looking footage during interviews. The intricate controls and manual settings on DSLR cameras give filmmakers a greater degree of control over the camera shots than all other types of cameras.
However, operators need to be well-educated in using advanced controls and know composition techniques to get the most out of the camera. The overall capability and impressive image quality make DSLR cameras perfect for interviews. They will provide users with a day’s worth of filming that looks beautiful, highly polished, and cinematic.
What are the best lenses for interviews?
One of the best ways to capture substantial interview footage is to use lenses suitable for the format. For one-on-one interviews, a 35mm or 50mm lens will give you optimal results due to their ability to focus on close subjects while representing people’s faces nicely. These smaller lenses produce a shallow depth of field, meaning that your subject will stand out against the defocused background, which adds additional impact to the shot.
Suppose you’re shooting a series of interviews with multiple participants. In that case, an 85mm lens may be a better choice as it offers superior image stabilization and better background blur than shorter focal lengths. However, whichever lens you choose, ensure that you consider the size and shape of your frame and its available light levels for maximum effect.
