22 Best Cameras for Livestreaming Church in 2024

Do you currently have the best cameras for livestreaming church? While every church can’t always afford top-of-the-line equipment, there are plenty of great options out there. Live streaming church services has become a weekly staple, and a quality camera makes a tremendous difference in the viewers’ experience.

Videocameras are not cheap, so before you commit to overhauling your equipment, it’s crucial to understand what type of livestreaming you want to do and what specific features you need.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to consider before purchasing new cameras for your church video system and includes 22 excellent camera options from least to most expensive.

Estimated reading time: 1 minute

Is Livestreaming Here to Stay?

The rise of the internet has changed the way people consume content. People are no longer tethered to their television sets to watch their favorite shows. Instead, they can watch whatever they want, whenever they want, on any number of devices.

The pandemic also opened their eyes to digital alternatives to live events – one of them being church services.

According to Pew Research, in August 2020, 33% of Christians attended services in person, and 74% watched online or on TV. That means at least three-fourths (and likely more) of people had grown comfortable with online church viewing.

With more people attending church services online, it’s clear that livestreaming is here to stay. If your church isn’t already broadcasting its services, now is the time to start.

What to Look for When Buying Cameras for Live streaming Church

Now that an online church service option is a member expectation, you need to set yourself up for a success. And that starts with having the right equipment for live streaming church services.

While you don’t necessarily need the best camera for live streams that’s ever been invented, you do need to meet a certain quality standard. You need to find the best camera for your particular needs.

So before you start shopping, here are things to consider when selecting the best video cameras for live streaming church. Make sure you discuss these questions with your team.

What are the features and resolution of the camera?

First and foremost, you’ll want a live streaming camera that captures high-quality video. The best video camera for your church needs to the right level of video and audio quality for online viewers.

How many cameras will you need, and how much is your total budget?

It’s best to cut right to the chase and explore the options within your video camera budget constraints. There are good live streaming cameras at various price points. For example, if you’re looking for best camcorder for the money, narrow your options before getting caught up in comparing features.

How does the camera perform in low lighting?

You’ll also want to ensure that the live streaming camera has good low-light performance, as many live streams take place in dark auditoriums in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. Also, choose a camera with a wide field of view so that you can capture as much of the action as possible.

How long is the camera’s battery life?

You don’t want your camera dying in the middle of a service. Yikes! The best camera for live must have an adequate battery life.

How heavy is the camera?

The weight of the camera matters. A heavier camera is often more stable and produces less shaky footage, but a lighter one is easier to carry around and won’t wear you out quickly. Try to find the right balance for your team to capture church live streams.

Is the camera easy to use?

If you’re new to live streaming or utilizing volunteers with limited experience, you’ll want a camera that’s simple to set up and operate.

Does your live streaming camera integrate?

Finally, you’ll want to make sure that the camera is compatible with your existing livestreaming setup. Think about the types of shots you need to capture, your minimum video quality, and other technical aspects.

Also, consider other uses for your camera system. For example, does your church have a video podcast? If so, think about your equipment and systems for producing those video podcasts.

Types of Videocameras for Livestreaming Church

You have a few options for the type of camera you purchase for livestreaming church. Of course, you could use a simple webcam built into your computer or purchase and attach an external camera.

However, although they’re cheap and easy to use, the webcam video quality will be lower than you may like.

On the other hand, you can purchase a budget friendly professional camera that won’t break the bank. And the video capabilities, video resolution, and sound quality of these other cameras will take your live streaming experience to the next level.

So let’s look at the general types of cameras you can purchase.

Camcorders

A camcorder is a consumer-grade camera designed to shoot video. They’re small, lightweight, and easy to use, making them a good choice for churches just starting to livestream their services. You can find a variety of budget camcorders.

DSLR/Mirrorless Cameras

Mirrorless and digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera’s are types of cameras that use a digital sensor instead of film. They’re often used by professional photographers and videographers, but they can be expensive.

Action Cameras

Action cameras, like the GoPro, are designed to be small and lightweight so that you can take them anywhere. They’re popular with extreme sports enthusiasts but can be used to capture creative shots in a church service.

360-Degree Cameras

A 360-degree camera captures a full spherical view, giving viewers the ability to explore the scene in every direction. These are becoming more popular and affordable, making them a good option for churches looking to share their viewers a unique experience.

PTZ Cameras

A pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) camera is a type of network camera that can be controlled remotely. They’re often used in security applications but can also be used to capture creative shots in a church service. You may be interested in a live event ptz camera.

Now that we’ve looked at the different types of cameras available let’s examine some specific models.

Best Cameras for Livestreaming Church From Least to Most Expensive

Mevo Start

$399 for one or $999 for 3-pack

If you’re just getting started and want something that’s inexpensive and user-friendly, then you may want to check out Mevo Start.

This inexpensive, tiny camera can be purchased solo or in a 3-pack. The Mevo start is created specifically for live streaming, and can stream directly to platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook Live. It’s also a great choice for multiple cameras.

You can control the camera wirelessly from your smartphone. The app offers live production features like creating different angles from a single shot which you can select between in real-time. The Mevo contains a 3.5mm audio port for external mics, microSD card slot and is low-light friendly.

Features

• 1920 x 1080p at 30 fps via HEVC or H.264
• Lens: f2.8 3.6mm EFL with low distortion
• 3 internal MEMS mics with spatial processing
• Livestreaming via mobile device when using camera access point mode or direct from the Mevo Start when joining a Wi-Fi access point
• Dimensions: 1.3 x 3.0 x 3.4″ / 3.4 x 7.5 x 8.7 cm
• Weight: 0.51 lb / 232 g
• Battery: Built-In Lithium-Ion Battery, 6 hours per charge
• Price: $399 for one or $999 for 3-pack

Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G7 Mirrorless

$697

If you’re looking for a less expensive hybrid mirrorless camera with great reviews for church live streaming, check out this Panasonic option. The Lumix DMC-G7 combines still image capture and 4K UHD video.

The camera has built-in Wi-FI for wireless sharing and remote camera control. It can record Full HD 1080p/60 and supports recording 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) video with either 30p or 24p frames rates at 100Mbps in the MP4 format.

One caution, the recording limit is 29 minutes and 59 seconds so make sure that will meet your needs.

Features

• 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) video
• Built-in stereo microphone
• High-resolution EVF and 3.0″ tilting touchscreen LCD
• Dimensions: 2.2 x 1.93″ / 56 x 49 mm
• Weight: 3.88 oz / 110 g
• Battery: Rechargeable lithium-ion
• Price: $697.99

Canon EOS-90D

$1,599

The Canon EOS-90D is a DSLR camera that meets the perfect blend of Hobbyist and professional. This crop sensor lens has taken the top spot in Canon’s EOS-D line and for good reason.

Featuring all of Canon’s best features such as dual pixel technology, and Auto-focus with face/eye detection, this camera provides a high-quality image without breaking a sweat.

With HDMI out and SD card slot expansion, this camera allows use with a video switcher, or local recording.

Whether you’re taking pictures, shooting video, or live streaming video, this camera can do it all.

Features

• Up to 4kUHD 30fps/ FHD 120 fps
• 32.5 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) Sensor
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF in Live View
• Weight: 1.55 lbs
• Battery: LP-E6 series
• Price: $1,199.00

Sony FDR-AX53 4K Ultra HD Handycam

$848

The Sony FDR-AX53 is a powerful 4K Ultra HD Handycam that offers impressive video quality and a range of features that make it an excellent choice for live streaming church services. Its 1/2.5″ Exmor R CMOS sensor delivers clear, detailed 4K footage, while the 20x optical zoom allows you to capture the action up close.

The camera’s Balanced Optical SteadyShot feature ensures smooth, stable video, even when filming handheld. With its built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, the FDR-AX53 makes it easy to control the camera remotely and live stream your events. The high-quality microphone captures clear audio, making this Handycam a comprehensive solution for your live streaming needs.

Features:

• 4K Ultra HD video recording
• 1/2.5″ Exmor R CMOS sensor
• 20x optical zoom
• Balanced Optical SteadyShot for smooth video
• Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity
• High-quality microphone
• Dimensions: 7.44 x 4.29 x 3.23″ / 189 x 109 x 82 mm
• Weight: 1.54 lbs / 699 g (with battery)
• Battery: NP-FV70 lithium-ion battery
• Price: $848

Panasonic HC-V770 Full HD Camcorder

$597.99

The Panasonic HC-V770 is a Full HD camcorder that offers great value for churches looking to live stream their services. With its 20x optical zoom and 1/2.3″ back-illuminated MOS sensor, the HC-V770 captures clear, detailed footage, even in low-light conditions.

The camera features Panasonic’s HYBRID O.I.S. technology, which ensures stable, shake-free video recording. Its built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity make it simple to control the camera remotely and live stream your events. The HC-V770 also boasts a variety of advanced features, such as slow-motion recording and time-lapse capture, providing you with creative options for church live streaming.

Features:

• Full HD video recording
• 20x optical zoom
• 1/2.3″ back-illuminated MOS sensor
• HYBRID O.I.S. for stable video
• Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity
• Advanced features like slow-motion and time-lapse
• Dimensions: 5.47 x 2.56 x 2.87″ / 139 x 65 x 73 mm
• Weight: 12.5 oz / 353 g (with battery)
• Battery: VW-VBT190 lithium-ion battery
• Price: $597.99

Canon XA11 Professional Camcorder

$1,399

The Canon XA11 is a professional camcorder designed for live streaming events like church services. It captures Full HD video footage with its 1/2.84″ HD CMOS Pro sensor and 20x optical zoom lens, ensuring clear, detailed images even from a distance.

The XA11 features an advanced HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor with improved low-light performance and wide dynamic range, making it ideal for various lighting conditions. Its dual SD card slots allow for simultaneous or relay recording, while the detachable handle provides XLR audio inputs for professional-quality sound. With its built-in Wi-Fi, live streaming your events is quick and easy.

Features:

• Full HD video recording
• 1/2.84″ HD CMOS Pro sensor
• 20x optical zoom lens
• Improved low-light performance and wide dynamic range
• Dual SD card slots for simultaneous or relay recording
• Detachable handle with XLR audio inputs
• Built-in Wi-Fi for easy live streaming
• Dimensions: 5.2 x 7.1 x 9.1″ / 131 x 180 x 231 mm (including lens hood)
• Weight: 2.5 lbs / 1.13 kg (including battery)
• Battery: BP-820 lithium-ion battery
• Price: $1,399

Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Camera

$898 (body only)

The Sony Alpha a6400 is a powerful mirrorless camera that delivers stunning 4K video, making it some of the best live streaming equipment. Its 24.2-megapixel APS-C Exmor CMOS sensor and advanced autofocus system ensure sharp, detailed images and smooth video.

The a6400 features a 180-degree tiltable touchscreen, allowing for easy framing and monitoring of your shots. With built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, remote control and live streaming are seamless. The camera’s compact and lightweight design makes it a highly portable option for your live streaming needs.

Features:

• 4K video recording
• 24.2-megapixel APS-C Exmor CMOS sensor
• Advanced autofocus system
• 180-degree tiltable touchscreen
• Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity
• Compact and lightweight design
• Dimensions: 4.72 x 2.64 x 2.36″ / 120 x 67 x 60 mm
• Weight: 14.3 oz / 403 g (body only)
• Battery: NP-FW50 lithium-ion battery
• Price: $898 (body only; lens options available at additional cost)

PTZOptics 30X-SDI Gen 2 Live Streaming Broadcast Camera

$1,799

If you’re looking for a PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) camera that can provide high-quality video footage, the PTZOptics 30X-SDI Gen is an excellent option.

The camera offers full HD 1080p at 60 frames per second and 30x optical zoom. It’s a great option for live streaming church services.

The PTZOptics 30X-SDI Gen also features IP streaming and is low-light sensitive with Wide Dynamic Range (WDR), which is ideal for auditoriums.

This camera also features 2D and 3D noise reduction and simultaneous 3G-SDI, HDMI, and IP streaming.

Features

• Up to 1080p Video Resolution
• Long-Distance 30x Optical Zoom; 60.7° wide-angle lens
• Simultaneous 3G-SDI, HDMI, IP Streaming
• Movement Range= Pan: 340° (-170 to 170°) and Tilt: 120° (-30 to 90°)
• Dimensions: 6.7 x 6.3 x 5.5″ / 17 x 16 x 14 cm
• Weight: 3 lb / 1.4 kg
• Price: $1,799

Panasonic HC-X2000 4K Professional Camcorder

$2,197.99

The Panasonic HC-X2000 is a 4K professional camcorder designed for live streaming church services and events. It features a 1/2.5″ 8.29-megapixel MOS sensor and a 24x optical zoom lens, capturing high-quality, detailed images even at a distance. The camera supports 4K video recording and offers various output options, including 3G-SDI, HDMI, and USB.

The HC-X2000 is equipped with advanced features such as 5-axis hybrid image stabilization, ensuring smooth and stable video recording. Its built-in Wi-Fi allows for remote control and live streaming capabilities. With its compact and lightweight design, this camcorder is easy to transport and set up for your church’s live streaming needs.

Features:

• 4K video recording
• 1/2.5″ 8.29-megapixel MOS sensor
• 24x optical zoom lens
• 3G-SDI, HDMI, and USB output options
• 5-axis hybrid image stabilization
• Built-in Wi-Fi for remote control and live streaming
• Compact and lightweight design
• Dimensions: 5.3 x 6.8 x 12.6″ / 135 x 173 x 319 mm (including lens hood)
• Weight: 3.31 lbs / 1.5 kg (including battery and handle)
• Battery: VW-VBD58 lithium-ion battery
• Price: $2,197.99

Blackmagic Design Micro Studio Camera 4K

$1,865

The Blackmagic Design Micro Studio Camera 4k Pro is a specialized camera for live streaming. It thrives in low light situations with it’s 4k sensor allowing up to 25,600 ISO.

It has four different methods for video output supporting any livestream setup you can think of using HDMI, SDI, Ethernet Connection, or USB disk including USB-C Expansion.

The Blackmagic Design Studio Camera 4k Pro also features Talkback, 2 XLR audio in, and headphone jack for live audio monitoring. It supports 3D LUT imports and has a built-in 7″ Viewfinder on the camera itself.

Weighing in at 3.71lbs, the Blackmagic Studio Camera 4k Pro is designed to do one thing and do it very well. Livestream.

Features

• Up to 4k 3840x 2160 60 fps Video Resolution
• Up to 25,600 ISO
• Built-in 7″ LCD Monitor with sunshade
• Built-in Color correction
• Weight: 3.71lbs
• Battery: 12v DC/ NP-F570 series
• Price: $1,865

Blackmagic Design Micro Studio Camera 4K

$1,595

The JVC GY-HM180 GY-HM170 is a compact professional camcorder designed for capturing high-quality 4K video during live streaming events like church services. With its 1/2.3″ 12.4-megapixel CMOS sensor and 12x optical zoom lens, this camcorder delivers sharp, detailed images even from a distance.

The GY-HM180 GY-HM170 features dual SD card slots for simultaneous or relay recording, ensuring you never miss a moment of your event. The camcorder also offers various output options, including 3G-SDI and HDMI. Its compact and lightweight design makes it an excellent choice for churches that need a portable and easy-to-use camcorder.

Features:

• 4K video recording
• 1/2.3″ 12.4-megapixel CMOS sensor
• 12x optical zoom lens
• Dual SD card slots for simultaneous or relay recording
• 3G-SDI and HDMI output options
• Compact and lightweight design
• Dimensions: 6.3 x 7.4 x 15.6″ / 160 x 188 x 396 mm (including lens hood)
• Weight: 3.67 lbs / 1.66 kg (including battery)
• Battery: SSL-JVC50 lithium-ion battery
• Price: $1,595

Canon XA50 Professional UHD 4K Camcorder

$2,099

The Canon XA50 is a professional UHD 4K camcorder designed for live streaming church services and events. It features a 1.0″ 13.4-megapixel CMOS sensor and a 15x optical zoom lens, capturing high-quality, detailed images even at a distance. The camera supports 4K video recording and offers various output options, including 3G-SDI and HDMI.

The XA50 is equipped with advanced features such as 5-axis image stabilization, ensuring smooth and stable video recording. Its dual SD card slots allow for simultaneous or relay recording, while the detachable handle provides XLR audio inputs for professional-quality sound. With its compact and lightweight design, this camcorder is easy to transport and set up for your church’s live streaming needs.

Features:

• 4K video recording
• 1.0″ 13.4-megapixel CMOS sensor
• 15x optical zoom lens
• 3G-SDI and HDMI output options
• 5-axis image stabilization
• Dual SD card slots for simultaneous or relay recording
• Detachable handle with XLR audio inputs
• Compact and lightweight design
• Dimensions: 4.3 x 3.6 x 10.1″ / 109 x 91 x 257 mm (including lens hood)
• Weight: 2.1 lbs / 952 g (including battery)
• Battery: BP-820 lithium-ion battery
• Price: $2,099

Nikon Z6 II

$1995

The Nikon Z6 II is a versatile mirrorless camera designed for capturing high-quality images and videos, making it suitable for live streaming church services. It features a 24.5-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and supports 4K video recording at up to 30 fps. The camera offers various output options, including HDMI.

The Z6 II comes with advanced features such as 5-axis in-body image stabilization, ensuring smooth and stable video recording. Its fast autofocus system with Eye-Detection AF ensures sharp and precise focus on subjects. The camera’s compact and lightweight design makes it easy to transport and set up for your church’s live streaming needs. Please note that the price listed is for the camera body only, and you will need to purchase a compatible lens separately.

Features:

• 4K video recording at up to 30 fps Video Resolution
• 24.5-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor
• HDMI output option
• 5-axis in-body image stabilization
• Fast autofocus system with Eye-Detection AF
• Compact and lightweight design
• Dimensions: 5.3 x 4.0 x 2.7″ / 134 x 101 x 68 mm
• Weight: 1.48 lbs / 675 g (including battery and memory card)
• Battery: EN-EL15c lithium-ion battery
• Price: $1,999.95 (body only)

Sony PXW-Z90V 4K HDR XDCAM

$2,799.99

The Sony PXW-Z90V is a 4K HDR XDCAM camcorder designed to live stream church services and events. It features a 1.0″ 14.2-megapixel Exmor RS CMOS sensor and a 12x optical zoom lens, capturing high-quality, detailed images even at a distance. The camera supports 4K video recording with HDR and offers various output options, including 3G-SDI and HDMI.

The PXW-Z90V is equipped with advanced features such as Fast Hybrid AF, ensuring quick and accurate autofocus during video recording. Its built-in Wi-Fi allows for remote control and live streaming capabilities. The camcorder also features dual SD card slots for simultaneous or relay recording. With its compact and lightweight design, this camcorder is easy to transport and set up for your church’s live streaming needs.

Features:

• 4K video recording with HDR
• 1.0″ 14.2-megapixel Exmor RS CMOS sensor
• 12x optical zoom lens
• 3G-SDI and HDMI output options
• Fast Hybrid AF
• Built-in Wi-Fi for remote control and live streaming
• Dual SD card slots for simultaneous or relay recording
• Compact and lightweight design
• Dimensions: 5.1 x 7.2 x 11.5″ / 130 x 182 x 291 mm (including lens hood)
• Weight: 3.1 lbs / 1.4 kg (including battery)
• Battery: NP-FV70A lithium-ion battery
• Price: $2,799.99

Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro

$2,495

The Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro is a powerful and versatile camera designed for capturing high-quality images and videos, making it suitable for live streaming church services. It features a Super 35mm 23.10 x 12.99mm 21.2-megapixel sensor and supports 6K video recording at up to 50 fps. The camera offers various output options, including HDMI.

The 6K Pro comes with advanced features such as Dual Native ISO, ensuring excellent low-light performance and reduced noise. Its 5″ fold-out touchscreen provides easy access to camera settings and focus control. The camera’s compact and lightweight design makes it easy to transport and set up for your church’s live streaming needs. Please note that the price listed is for the camera body only, and you will need to purchase a compatible lens separately.

Features:

• 6K video recording at up to 50 fps
• Super 35mm 23.10 x 12.99mm 21.2-megapixel sensor
• HDMI output option
• Dual Native ISO for low-light performance
• 5″ fold-out touchscreen
• Compact and lightweight design
• Dimensions: 7.0 x 4.6 x 3.8″ / 178 x 117 x 96 mm
• Weight: 2.87 lbs / 1.3 kg (including battery)
• Battery: NP-F570 lithium-ion battery
• Price: $2,495 (body only)

JVC GY-HM250 UHD 4K Streaming Camcorder

$2,245

The JVC GY-HM250 is a UHD 4K streaming camcorder designed for live streaming church services and events. It features a 1/2.3″ 12.4-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor and a 12x optical zoom lens, capturing high-quality, detailed images even at a distance. The camera supports 4K video recording and offers various output options, including HDMI and 3G-SDI.

The GY-HM250 is equipped with advanced features such as dual SD card slots for simultaneous or relay recording and built-in lower-third graphics creation, allowing you to add text and graphics to your live stream without external equipment. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to transport and set up for your church’s live streaming needs.

Features:

• 4K video recording
• 1/2.3″ 12.4-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor
• 12x optical zoom lens
• HDMI and 3G-SDI output options
• Dual SD card slots for simultaneous or relay recording
• Built-in lower-third graphics creation
• Compact and lightweight design
• Dimensions: 5.5 x 7.4 x 14.4″ / 139 x 189 x 366 mm (including lens hood)
• Weight: 3.6 lbs / 1.63 kg (including battery)
• Battery: SSL-JVC50 lithium-ion battery
• Price: $2,245

Sony HXR-NX80 4K NXCAM

$2,299

The Sony HXR-NX80 is a 4K NXCAM camcorder designed for live streaming church services and events. It features a 1.0″ 14.2-megapixel Exmor RS CMOS sensor and a 12x optical zoom lens, capturing high-quality, detailed images even at a distance.

The camera supports 4K video recording and offers various output options, including HDMI and 3G-SDI.

The HXR-NX80 is equipped with advanced features such as Fast Hybrid AF, ensuring quick and accurate autofocus during video recording, and built-in Wi-Fi for remote control and live streaming capabilities.

The camcorder also features dual SD card slots for simultaneous or relay recording. With its compact and lightweight design, this camcorder is easy to transport and set up for your church’s live streaming needs.

Features:

• 4K video recording
• 1.0″ 14.2-megapixel Exmor RS CMOS sensor
• 12x optical zoom lens
• HDMI and 3G-SDI output options
• Fast Hybrid AF
• Built-in Wi-Fi for remote control and live streaming
• Dual SD card slots for simultaneous or relay recording
• Compact and lightweight design
• Dimensions: 5.1 x 7.3 x 11.5″ / 130 x 185 x 291 mm (including lens hood)
• Weight: 3.1 lbs / 1.4 kg (including battery)
• Battery: NP-FV70A lithium-ion battery
• Price: $2,299

Canon XA55 Professional UHD 4K Camcorder

$2,799

The Canon XA55 is a professional UHD 4K camcorder designed for live streaming church services and events. It features a 1.0″ 13.4-megapixel CMOS sensor and a 15x optical zoom lens, capturing high-quality, detailed images even at a distance. The camera supports 4K video recording and offers various output options, including HDMI and 3G-SDI.

The XA55 is equipped with advanced features such as Dual Pixel CMOS AF, ensuring quick and accurate autofocus during video recording. Its built-in Wi-Fi allows for remote control and live streaming capabilities. The camcorder also features dual SD card slots for simultaneous or relay recording. With its compact and lightweight design, this camcorder is easy to transport and set up for your church’s live streaming needs.

Features:

• 4K video recording
• 1.0″ 13.4-megapixel CMOS sensor
• 15x optical zoom lens
• HDMI and 3G-SDI output options
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF
• Built-in Wi-Fi for remote control and live streaming
• Dual SD card slots for simultaneous or relay recording
• Compact and lightweight design
• Dimensions: 4.3 x 3.6 x 9.1″ / 109 x 91 x 231 mm
• Weight: 2.45 lbs / 1.11 kg (including battery)
• Battery: BP-820 lithium-ion battery
• Price: $2,799

Blackmagic Design Studio Camera 4k Pro

$1,795

The Blackmagic Design Studio Camera 4K Pro is a professional live streaming camera designed for church services and events. It features a 4/3″ 13-megapixel sensor and supports 4K video recording, capturing high-quality, detailed images. The camera offers various output options, including 12G-SDI and HDMI.

The Studio Camera 4K Pro is equipped with advanced features such as a built-in color corrector, talkback functionality, and a tally indicator for live production. Its large 7″ viewfinder allows you to monitor your footage with ease, while its built-in sunshade protects against glare. With its compact and lightweight design, this camera is easy to transport and set up for your church’s live streaming needs. Please note that the price listed is for the camera body only, and you will need to purchase a compatible lens separately.

Features:

• 4K video recording
• 4/3″ 13-megapixel sensor
• 12G-SDI and HDMI output options
• Built-in color corrector
• Talkback functionality and tally indicator
• 7″ viewfinder with built-in sunshade
• Compact and lightweight design
• Dimensions: 8.1 x 7.6 x 5.2″ / 205 x 193 x 132 mm
• Weight: 4.4 lbs / 2 kg
• Battery: NP-F570 lithium-ion battery
• Price: $1,795 (body only)

Sony a7 IV Mirrorless Camera

$2,498

If you’re looking for an excellent option to capture video and photography, check out this option from Sony. Although pricy, it has rave reviews and is also a #1 seller. This advanced hybrid camera will not only help you with video streaming but can also provide top-quality photography for your media team.

Although the Sony a7 III is a cheaper option, it has a recording limit of 29 minutes, whereas the a7 IV has an unlimited recording limit. The Sony a7 IV offers S-Cinetone, S-Log3, and Other Color and Gamma Controls and real-time eye AF for recording video.

Features

• 4K 60p Video in 10-Bit, S-Cinetone
• Built-in stereo microphone
• 4K 15p UVC/UAC Streaming via USB Type-C
• Dimensions: 5.2 x 3.8 x 3.1″ / 131.3 x 96.4 x 79.8 mm
• Weight: 1.4 lb / 658 g
• Battery: Rechargeable lithium-ion
• Price: $2,498

Panasonic AG-CX350 4K Camcorder

$3,695

The Panasonic AG-CX350 is a 4K camcorder that offers high-quality video recording and advanced features for professionals. The CX350 can record clear, sharp 4K video footage. Additionally, the camera features a variable frame rate of 1 to 60 fps in UHD and 1 to 20 fps in HD.

The CX350 also features a variety of professional-grade functions, such as IP streaming, dual SD card slots, three discrete lens control rings, and advanced audio controls. Although costly, the Panasonic AG-CX350 is an excellent option for those looking for a top-of-the-line camcorder. If you’re looking to capture high quality footage, this is one of the best camcorders out there.

Features

• UHD 4K, 1080p, Variable Frame Rate
• 20x optical zoom, 32x intelligent zoom
• Front-Mounted Mic with Front Audio Level
• FHD streaming without a PC or an encoder unit. During streaming, UHD/FHD video can be recorded to SD cards in the camera body.
• Dimensions: 7.1 x 6.8 x 12.2″ / 180 x 173 x 311 mm
• Weight: 4.19 lb / 1.9 kg
• Battery: Panasonic AG-VBR Series
• Price: $3,695

Canon XF605 4K UHD Professional Camcorder

$4,699

The Canon XF605 is a 4K UHD professional camcorder designed for live streaming church services and events. It features a 1.0″ 13.4-megapixel CMOS sensor and a 15x optical zoom lens, capturing high-quality, detailed images even at a distance. The camera supports 4K video recording and offers various output options, including 12G-SDI and HDMI.

The XF605 is equipped with advanced features such as Dual Pixel CMOS AF, ensuring quick and accurate autofocus during video recording. Its built-in Wi-Fi allows for remote control and live streaming capabilities. The camcorder also features dual SD card slots for simultaneous or relay recording. With its compact and lightweight design, this camcorder is easy to transport and set up for your church’s live streaming needs.

Features:

• 4K video recording
• 1.0″ 13.4-megapixel CMOS sensor
• 15x optical zoom lens
• 12G-SDI and HDMI output options
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF
• Built-in Wi-Fi for remote control and live streaming
• Dual SD card slots for simultaneous or relay recording
• Compact and lightweight design
• Dimensions: 6.3 x 8.2 x 13.8″ / 160 x 208 x 350 mm (including lens hood)
• Weight: 4.85 lbs / 2.2 kg (including battery)
• Battery: BP-A30 lithium-ion battery
• Price: $4,699

In Summary

There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the best camera for livestreaming church. We hope this comprehensive guide helped you narrow down your options.

Although some some live streaming cameras are pricy, these are some of the best options for streaming cameras under $5,000.

Church live streaming is not only a game changer for you as a church, but also for the people you reach. People are continuing to embrace technology and creative ways to communicate. So high quality camera features and image quality vital!

What camera have you found to be best for live streaming your church services? Let us know in the comments below.

Happy live streaming!

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• 12 Tips For Your First Virtual Church Service

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