I get asked frequently about cameras. Mostly, I’m asked “what camera should I buy?” I always respond with “what’s your budget?” That’s what matters for most people. Sure, there are other qualifiers that matter. Ideally, that’s a question asked by someone looking for their very first camera body. But in some instances, it comes from someone that has an “old” camera looking to upgrade. Makes sense. Camera tech has vastly improved over the years. Today, the masses are learning that creativity really is for ANYONE. If you want to capture images or video and publish it online, YOU CAN. What’s great is there are many cameras and various price points one can utilize as well as specified camera bodies for the task. For example, the Canon R8* is one I’d recommend for SERIOUS, aspiring creators.

While at CES 2024, I had one booth in particular that I HAD to see and that’s the folks at Canon. No, I’m no Canon Explorer of Light, but I do feel nothing but love and support from the team at Canon. While at the booth, I wanted to get my hands on the R8 mirrorless camera. I’ve played with several camera bodies from Canon, but this one has gotten away from me. I was interested because it is a full-frame mirrorless body that’s priced just right for aspiring creators at $1500.

Sticker shock?

I know some of you have sticker shock when I toss out $1500. Don’t fret, it’s worthy of that price point if you’re someone that’s SERIOUSLY wanting to shoot more quality photos and videos for your own personal brand. The full frame sensor will be much better in low light situations. The sensor tech in general will offer great autofocus performance and 24-megapixels offering crispy images and vibrant colors. (Note: I’m not against APS-C sensors, don’t start an argument with me over that)

Previously, I thought the R7* would be a better camera for aspiring creators looking to get both quality video and images. The R7 is a nice camera, but in my experience, I couldn’t lean on it for all of my photo needs. It was totally fine for portraits, but it wouldn’t keep up with me when trying to capture images of fast moving objects or people. As you know, I shoot photos of my son in action. You can learn more about the R7 here where I discussed it on TWiT TV.

Back to the R8. In my hands, the camera felt great. Lightweight, solid build and great ergonomics. Weather sealing on it isn’t pro grade, so don’t take it out in rain storms. Don’t take it to your favorite sandy beach, either.

Spec wise, you can capture 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. In addition to that high framerate, you can shoot in Canon Log3. Canon Log3 is an awesome gamma for video editors looking for flexibility in color grading footage. I’ve been shooting video for a long time and prefer Canon Log2 over Log3, but I respect what Log3 is doing for creators getting their feet wet in the space. It is easier to get into color grading with it. Also, you can shoot video for longer than 30 minutes with this camera. Most video cameras have a mandated lockdown on recording time. Look it up.

I hope to get my hands on an R8* for a more extended look, so make sure you’re following me here or on social media. I wanna see what I can do with it myself. But on paper, it’s looking like a great option for a serious content creator that wants to get started until they upgrade to the likes of the R6* or R5*.

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