In this article, I’ll cover a series of excellent video cameras that do a wonderful job of recording both church and church services.
I grew up going to church and spent years using all different types of cameras. That combination of knowledge, backed up by both ample research and first-hand accounts, allowed me to properly review all of the models outlined in this guide.
The Canon Vixia G40 gets my vote for the best church video camera due to the way it delivers ample features with good low light capabilities and premium resolution.
Every feature in the camera, from the 20x HD zoom lens to the vibrant 3.5-inch screen, enables you to shoot in just about every church regardless of the size or number of people inside. It’s also well built and has dual SD card slots.
As great as the device is, there are some other ones that work wonderfully in church too. I’ll take a much deeper look at them below.
Contents
Top Video Cameras for Church Use
Here I’ll go over my top picks by explaining their unique traits as well as what purpose they are best geared for.
1. Canon Vixia G40
- Best for: Overall
- Key Features: 20x HD zoom lens. Excellent 3.5-inch screen. CMOS pro image sensor. Solid low-light performance and built-in Wi-Fi.
- Lens Type: Zoom
- Video Capture Resolution: 1080p
- Weight: 1.98 pounds
The Vixia G40 kicks off my list because it is a high-quality camera that enables you to both record and live stream any church event you could ever want. It does a nice job in low light, which is important and comes with a strong image stabilization system.
The 20x HD optical zoom lens goes a long way in terms of versatility, as does the 3.5-OLED viewscreen. Both are then backed by a strong battery, multiple shooting modes, 1080 MP4 recording, and dual SD card slots. The battery will also last quite a long time.
If there’s one downside to this camera it’s that, as it comes with so many features, it’s not the easiest device to grasp. This is not a great choice for users who don’t want to put in some work getting everything setup, but those that do will be truly rewarded.
2. Canon XA15
- Best for: Low Light
- Key Features: Excellent zoom lens and an advanced HD pro image sensor. Good low light capabilities. 3-inch LCD tiltable touchscreen. HD output.
- Optical Zoom: 20x
- Video Capture Resolution: 1080p
- Weight: 2.62 pounds
This option from Canon is a full model whose strong pro image sensor makes it a great option for low light or dimmer environments. That alone makes it especially useful for church. The 20x optical zoom is also useful and the sharp resolution takes your videos to the next level.
Many users will also love the 3-inch LCD capacitive touchscreen with a fully tiltable electronic viewfinder. This increases the model’s versatility and lets you shoot how you want. Another great feature is the intelligent optical image stabilization system that actively reduces blur.
The only true issue with this model is that it is much heavier than the others on this list. That won’t be an issue if you only want to use it a little bit at a time, but those recording for extended periods might experience fatigue if they try to hold it.
3. Panasonic HC-VX981K
- Best for: Versatility
- Key Features: 4k Ultra HD recording with 18.91 MOS sensor. 3-inch touch screen LCD display. Built-in microphone. Wi-Fi compatibility. Kit provides excellent accessories.
- Screen Size: 3 inches
- Video Capture Resolution: 4k
- Optical Zoom: 20x
If you’re looking for a great church video camera that provides plenty of different options, this model fits the bill. The camera itself offers 4k ultra HD recording on top of a MOS sensor, 20x zoom, and hybrid optical image stabilization. There’s a 3-inch LCD display as well.
However, what truly makes this shine is the full kit. There are plenty of accessories that further the model, including editing software, a video bag, a cleaning kit, and a micro HDMI cable. When recording you always want choices, and that’s exactly what this delivers.
I just wished this camera was a bit more intuitive to use. While the entire design is streamlined enough, it could be a bit easier to set up and get going. The camera also isn’t the best when panning. While you can move it around, doing so too quickly might cause it to bug.
4. Panasonic WXF991K
- Best for: Lightweight
- Key Features: 3-inch screen and stellar 4k resolution. Affordable price point. Plenty of editing tools. Long-lasting battery and solid audio.
- Optical Zoom: 20x
- Video Capture Resolution: 4k
- Weight: 14.2 ounces
If you want an easily maneuverable model that’s on the lighter side, the Panasonic WXF991K delivers. This small device is more compact than a lot of other church video cameras and it has ultra-sharp 4k HD recording as well as quick modes changes through the HDR button.
Those who want to go the extra mile will also enjoy the electronic viewfinder, as well as the 20x optical zoom, 5 axis hybrid optical image stabilization, and strong sensor. The Wi-Fi ups the compatibility, which is perfect for those who want live streaming.
The one con this camera has is that it can struggle to stay in focus while zooming. Once you’re set it’s good to go, but know you might get some issues before that point. The audio could also be a lot stronger, but there are always accessories for that.
5. Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera
- Best for: Point and shoot
- Key Features: Lightweight design. Compact shell. Clean, streamlined menus. 5-inch touchscreen and 4 built-in microphones for better audio. Top-of-the-line recording.
- Lens Type: Close-Up
- Video Capture Resolution: 4k
- Weight: 1.53 pounds
While not a conventional video camera, the Blackmagic Pocket is an incredible way to capture and record church services. It has some of the best audio quality around due to the 4 built-in microphones, offers a full 4k video capture resolution, and comes with a 5-inch touchscreen.
The sensor is also large and helps you shoot in dim interior areas. You get good quality for both large churches and small ones. You’re even able to color grade in real-time. If you have any extra reservations, there’s a 12-month warranty as well.
The single biggest drawback to this device is its high price point. That alone will put some people off. The battery life and customer service could also both be better. Even so, if you want the best features and strongest characteristics, this camera delivers on multiple levels.
How to Pick the Best Video Camera for Church Use
When picking out a video camera to use in church, prioritize these traits first before considering other ones.
Image Resolution
As with any other video camera, you want your church model to have the best possible resolution. That means you can pick between things like HD, Full HD, or 4k. However, each one of those also comes in at different price points and may change based on your budget.
First figure out how much money you’re willing to spend, then try to get the best resolution within that price range. 4k is the absolute best of the best, but you don’t typically need something so crisp and sharp for church. It’s about what you want and what you can afford.
Low Light
Something else you always need to pay attention to when shooting inside any building, especially churches, is your camera’s low-light functionality. Most devices do a good job when conditions are right. However, your goal should be to get something that’s always clear.
Size and Weight
When looking at a video camera for any reason, always think about its size and weight. The devices often have a large spread that ranges from heavier shoulder models to small camcorders. Each has its pros and cons, and you need to take stock of them.
Smaller models are easier to handle and won’t cause any fatigue. They are also more portable. However, larger devices tend to come with more specs and have more power. If you can get light and large you should, but if you can’t go with dimensions that you’re able to handle.
My Verdict
I believe the Canon Vixia G40 to be the best video camera for church use on the current market. It comes with a slew of features that make it great to use in all sorts of different environments and has no issues capturing both small and large gatherings.
You get many premium traits, including a 3.5-inch screen and 20x HD zoom lens, as well. Each part of the camera makes it good for the church and enables you to record a small mass to a large service to everything in between.
