This page compares RMC cameras, including recommendations for intended use. But choosing the right camera can require additional help, please email us at teachlearn@virginia.edu or visit RMC on the 3rd floor of Clemons Library and we'll be happy to discuss what equipment is best for you!
Compare camera features
| Camera | Category | Resolution | Memory | Lens | Audio | Sensor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zoom Q4 | Video Camera | HD 1080p | SD card | Wide Angle static; Fixed Focus | Built-in; 1/8” mic jack | 3 MP |
| Canon Vixia | Video Camera | HD 1080p | SD Card | Zoom; built-in | Built-in; 1/8” mic jack | 3.28 MP |
| Canon C100 | Cinema Camera | HD 1080p | SD card | Interchangable | 2 XLR inputs | 8.3 MP; Super35 |
| Canon XF300 | Video Camera | HD 1080p | CF Card | Zoom; built-in | 2 XLR inputs | 2.37 MP |
| Canon C200 | Cinema Camera | HD/UHD 4k | C-Fast; SD card | Interchangable | 2 XLR inputs | 9.84 MP; Super35 |
| Canon RP | DSLR | HD/UHD 4k | SD Card | Interchangable | Built-in; 1/8” mic jack | 26.2 MP; full-frame |
Compare recommended uses
| Camera | Webcam | Long Presentation | Interview | Documentary | Narrative Short Film | Still Photography | Low Light |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zoom Q4 | Yes | Yes | |||||
| Canon Vixia | Yes | Yes | Yes | ||||
| Canon C100 | Yes | Yes | |||||
| Canon XF300 | Yes | Yes | |||||
| Canon C200 | Yes | Yes | |||||
| Canon RP | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Read about individual cameras
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Zoom Q4
The Zoom Q4 is best for recording events where high-quality audio is important but zooming and pixel perfect image quality is not. The High-Quality wide-angle lens captures multiple video formats and frame rates which allows the Q4 to record sharp, detailed images in multiple lighting environments. The Q4 captures AAC and WAV audio formats up to 24-bit/96k through the built-in stereo X/Y microphone, with three different mic gain options, and a windscreen for capturing audio while minimizing wind rumble. The camera also features an input for 1/8th inch jack external microphones, a built-in speaker and a line-level/headphone output with dedicated volume control for monitoring.
The USB interface allows for charging, data transfer to and from computer editing software, webcam functionality, and live streaming with USTREAM Producer, Flash Live Media Encoder, and Skype. There is also an USB mic function for use with external devices like computers.
No reservation required.
Go to equipment checkout for Zoom Q4 >
Canon VIXIA HF R600
The Canon VIXIA HF R600 is a great all-around camera that will capture HD video and high-quality audio. The Vixia allows you to easily capture clear, high quality audio with multiple audio modes. Each mode has optimized settings suited for various needs, which results in HD video with realistic, immersive audio. The camcorder is equipped with an advanced 3.28 Megapixel Full HD CMOS Image Sensor to capture lifelike true Full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution video. The high-resolution HD CMOS Image Sensor delivers natural color even in low light, noise reduction to bring bright clarity to every frame, plus it looks clear and detailed anywhere you view it, including large HDTVs. The camera also features an input for external 1/8in jack microphones, a built-in speaker and a line-level/headphone output with dedicated volume control for monitoring.
The USB interface exclusively allows for data transfer to computer editing software via the included USB cable.
No reservation required.
Go to equipment checkout for Canon VIXIA HF R600 >
Canon EOS C100
The Canon EOS C100 is equipped with an advanced 16:9 Super 35mm Canon CMOS Image Sensor. The large sensor format allows for cinematic image capture by providing depth of field control and dynamic range characteristics reminiscent of film. The 8.3 megapixel sensor maximizes pixel pitch for greater sensitivity in low light while minimizing noise. The sensor allows the EOS C100 to capture Red, Green, and Blue channels independent to achieve Full HD 1920x1080 video.
The camera also features:
- Canon Log Gamma which preserves shadow and highlight detail for maximum editing and grading in post without image degradation
- Wide DR Gamma with high dynamic range that suppresses brightness while maintaining seamless gradations.
- AVCHD File Based Recording to SD Cards
- A maximum bit-rate of 24Mbps (LPCM) at a maximum resolution of 1920x1080. Frame rates of 60i, PF30, PF24, 24p, 50i, and 25p.
- Relay Recording of long takes between dual SD cards
- Dual slot Recording using both cards in case of a SD card failure.
- Complete manual control of every recording process.
- ND filters expand control over exposure and depth-of-field.
- Focusing aids (Peaking Modes and Magnify Focus Modes) to confirm critical focus distance
- One-Shot AF to assist in sudden focusing adjustments
- Push Auto Iris to automatically adjust aperture to easily maintain proper exposure in frequent lighting changes.
- 2 External XLR Mic inputs and a stereo in camera mic
Training and reservation required.
Go to equipment checkout for Canon EOS C100 >
Canon XF300
The Canon XF300 features 50Mbps MPEG-2 compression with MXF File Wrappers ensures the widest compatibility with industry infrastructure, metadata and non-linear editing (NLE) systems. Using MPEG-2 4:2:2 color sampling means ultra-fine transitions in tone and color for maintaining the highest quality image for advanced postproduction. The camera is well suited for electronic newsgathering (ENG), independent filmmaking, documentaries, and event videography. The XF300 also offers multiple recording bit rates, resolutions and variable frame rates to expand your creative flexibility and allow you to work in virtually any production environment.
The camera also features:
- Records to Compact Flash (CF) Cards for improved image quality
- Relay Recording of long takes between dual CF cards
- Dual Slot Recording using both cards in case of a CF card failure.
- Maximum quality 50Mbps Full HD and selectable frame rates 60i, 30p and 24p
- DIGIC DV III Image Processor for enhanced shading and lifelike tonal gradations
- A Canon 18x HD L-Series Lens
- Native 1920 x 1080 CMOS Image Sensors
- Complete manual control of every recording process.
- ND filters expand control over exposure and depth-of-field.
- Focusing aids (Peaking Modes and Magnify Focus Modes) to confirm critical focus distance
- Interval Recording to record a specified number of frames at specified intervals.
- Frame Recording which allows a specified number of frames to be recorded (Ideal for clay animation)
- 2 External XLR Mic inputs and a stereo in camera mic
Training and reservation required.
Go to equipment checkout for Canon XF300 >
Canon EOS C200
The Canon EOS C200 EF Cinema Camera is designed for cinematic filmmaking, and features a built-in EVF, 4" LCD screen, top handle, Super35 CMOS sensor, and Dual Pixel Autofocus. Modeled on the Super35 motion picture film standard, the Canon CMOS sensor has an active image size of 24.4 x 13.5mm. It features 4096 x 2160 resolution to deliver Cine 4K images, as well as supporting Ultra HD (3840 x 2160), and Full HD (1920 x 1080).
A built-in EVF enables the camera to maintain a small footprint when you shoot. However, the included removable 4" LCD screen as well as the included top handle and camera grip make this camera versatile for larger shoots.
This camera also features:
- The C200 can record Canon's Cinema RAW Light internally via its single CFast card slot. The camera also incorporates two SD card slots for recording UHD 4K/HD MP4 video.
- Continuous AF (Autofocus) function for all autofocus lenses, using Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology.
- Dynamic range of approximately 13 stops, and an ISO range of 160 to 25,600. You can also select an expanded ISO range of 100 to 102,400. It supports Wide DR Gamma, Canon Log, and Canon Log 3.
- 4" LCD Touchscreen Camera Grip and Top Handle
- 2 Built-in XLR audio inputs with +48V phantom power, and a 3.5mm microphone terminal is also built into the camera.
- The EF lens mount on the EOS C200 offers compatibility not only with Canon's existing broad range of DSLR lenses but also with their line of EF-mount CN-E cinema prime and zoom lenses.
Training and reservation required.
Go to equipment checkout for Canon C200 >
Canon EOS RP
The Canon EOS RP is a full-frame mirrorless camera similar to a DSLR. It is great for still photography and produces incredible video, though it has limited audio options on-board. Impressively small despite having a large full-frame sensor, the Canon EOS RP offers a high-resolution 26.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor. Both stills and UHD 4K video can be recorded using a broad sensitivity range, from ISO 100-40000, to suit working in a variety of lighting conditions. Continuous shooting is also supported at up to 5 fps for photographing moving subjects.
Designed for multimedia image-maker, the EOS RP supports UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) resolution recording at up to 23.98 fps at 120 Mb/s, along with Full HD 1080p and HD 720p at 60 fps for slow motion playback. When recording in-camera, 4K video has 4:2:0 sampling and 8-bit color depth.
This camera also features:
- An on-board stereo microphone or an external mic via the 3.5mm mic jack.
- Dual Pixel CMOS AutoFocus system, with 4779 selectable on-sensor phase-detection points for quickly and accurately acquiring focus during stills and video operation.
- RF lens mount - fully compatibility to existing EF and EF-S-mount lenses via an EF-EOS R Mount Adapter.
- 5-axis Dual Sensing IS can be used when recording video to electronically reduce the appearance of camera shake for sharper, smoother recording.
- Integrated 2.36m-dot OLED electronic viewfinder affords a bright and clear means for eye-level viewing.
- Rear 3.0" 1.04m-dot LCD features a vari-angle design for easier use when working from high, low, and front-facing angles. It is also a touchscreen for intuitive control over shooting, playback, and menu navigation controls.
- In-camera charging over USB is supported for easier on-the-go charging.
Training and reservation required.