a camera for advanced video work, the Panasonic LUMIX S5 II offers incredible value for its price. It doesn’t have features like RAW video output or internal ProRes support out of the box (you’ll have to get the Panasonic LUMIX S5 IIX or purchase an “upgrade key” at additional cost for that). However, it’s still a very capable video camera with plenty to offer for most shooters. That includes 6k open gate recording and oversampled 4k recording at up to 60 fps, plus a dedicated Slow & Quick mode for slow-motion capture. The camera also has an excellent IBIS system, and its full-frame sensor is well-suited to shooting in less controlled lighting conditions.

If you need those more advanced features, the Fujifilm X-H2S is a fantastic alternative with an APS-C sensor. It’s a video powerhouse that supports external RAW video recording and internal Apple ProRes codecs from the jump. The stacked design of its sensor also keeps rolling shutter distortion to a minimum, which is great for action video. That said, the X-H2S is pricier than the Panasonic and is likely overkill for most people.