A key part of presenting a home in an appealing way is a high quality video. Being able to present a video tour of a property will engage potential buyers much more meaningfully than just sharing photos. While your mobile phone probably has a great camera, it’s a good idea to look into something more professional. There’s a lot of facts and figures, but don’t get overwhelmed. We’re going to take a look at some high quality, easy to use video cameras.
Making yourself successful in industry-level photo and videography means understanding that quality often comes from the compatibility of multiple pieces. Some of the equipment featured below are going to be bodies that you can build a high quality set-up around, while some are going to be beginner friendly video cameras that have everything they need in one. Prioritize finding what works for you, and you’ll be able to get the video you need!
Things to Know
You probably don’t want a camera that can’t shoot in at least 4k quality, which has become the minimum standard.
The other equipment you should be looking at include lenses, which determine aperture, focal length, and sharpness (as opposed to the interface, stabilization, speed, etc of the body), lighting, tripods/stands, and software to edit your video to get the look you want. The ISO range refers to the camera’s sensitivity to light, determining graininess and how video will come out in lower lights.
Now let’s talk about some Cameras!
The Sony a7s mkii is a user favorite. It’s a big investment, but high enough quality for both enthusiasts and professionals. It is known for its high framerate and smooth, clear videos in any lighting, valuable for smooth transitions to dimmer sections of the home
~$2800
Max Resolution 4240 x 3832
Video ISO range 100-102400 (expands to 50-409600)
Contrast aware autofocus
1.3 cm electronic viewfinder
The Canon EOS 80D is a more affordable option that takes good quality video on a great battery life. It has a strong autofocus and is lightweight and reliable, great for capturing movement and maintaining details.
~$1100 new, $450 used
Max Resolution 6000 x 4000
Video ISO range 100-16000 (expands to 25600)
Auto and manual focus options
The Canon t7i is known for its beginner friendliness and a wide angle perfect for taking in a large room. It’s less adaptable to low light than some of the other options here, but takes good quality video to show off well-lit rooms.
~$749
Max Resolution 6000 x 4000
Video ISO range 100-25600 (expands to 51200)
Timelapse mode
The DJI Osmo pocket 2 is a consumer grade camera made valuable by its 360 degree video, trendy and perfect for showing off the little details of a home. It’s smaller and lighter than a mobile phone and stable enough for a walking tour
~$250
Max video resolution 840×2160
Video ISO range: 100-6400
3 axis stabilizer
Connectable app for live view
The Nikon D7500 is known for its user friendliness. You’ll have no problem figuring out this modern, high speed DSLR camera
~$750
Max video resolution 5568 x 3712
Video ISO range: 100 – 51200 (expandable to 50 – 1640000)
Continuous autofocus
Durable carbon fiber frame
The Pentax k1 mk2 is praised for its value of quality for price. A starter camera with professional ability, it will take the video you need while helping you develop your videography skills and muscle memory. It is also compact and highly weather resistant ~$1700
Max video resolution 7360 x 4912
Video ISO range: 100-819200
Weather resistant
Offers remote control
The BMPPC Pro G2 has an accessible, user-friendly build, letting you adapt its functions for your needs. It is particularly great for stable shots, taking in video at a fantastic quality for it’s easy to transport weight and size.
~$2300
Max video resolution 6144 x 3456
Video ISO range: 100 to 25600
5” tilting viewscreen
Horizontal and vertical capture
Choosing the right camera for real estate videography ultimately comes down to balancing your budget, experience level, and specific needs. Whether you’re just starting out with the beginner-friendly Canon T7i or DJI Osmo Pocket 2, or you’re ready to invest in professional-grade equipment like the Sony a7s mkii, each of these cameras offers unique advantages for showcasing properties effectively.
