Raw footage, also called raw video, is simply the unprocessed data that comes from your camera’s image sensor. Like raw still image files, raw video gives you the flexibility to adjust elements like brightness, contrast, white balance and more post-capture.
The ability to record raw video gives you lots of control and flexibility over the look and feel of your final film.
While the title of this post asks which cameras can shoot raw video, what we really mean are small cameras. Cinema cameras can record raw video, but we’ve left them off this list. What we’re discussing in this article are the new breed of mirrorless cameras that are aiming to bring cinema camera functionality to the masses.
The growing importance of video – and vlogging – has seen traditional camera manufacturers race to bolster the video specifications of their key models. Companies like Nikon, Panasonic and Sigma have used firmware updates to enable their cameras to support raw video recording.
Managing the large file sizes and intense editing that comes with shooting raw video isn’t for everyone. But for those who do want to shoot professional-looking footage, the option to have that power and control in such a portable camera body is a huge benefit.
As more cameras that can shoot raw video are released we look poised to see a revolution in filmmaking much like we saw in stills photography at the dawn of the digital age.
Which cameras shoot raw video?
We’ll update this list as more announcements are made, but for now these are the current (small, mirrorless) cameras that can shoot raw video. We’ve left cinema cameras off this list of which cameras shoot raw video because these are more niche, specialised cameras. In this guide we’ll be focusing on consumer and prosumer – largely mirrorless – cameras.
For a deeper dive into the many different camera types and features available, check out our range of camera buying guides.
