Most filmmakers know that Netflix originals can only be shot with cameras approved by the streamer. Most of the cameras on Netflix’s “approved list” are very expensive, but there are some affordable options worth keeping an eye on.
But before we delve into that-
It goes without saying that you should never choose to buy a camera based solely on Netflix approval. There are a lot of incredible cameras out there that aren’t approved by Netflix, and many of the ones that are are offering subpar visuals.
Netflix’s criteria for a good camera are inconsistent with the vast majority of working DPs. Just exclude most Allais movie camerafilms that were well-regarded in Hollywood but rejected by Netflix due to slightly lower resolution…only Arri’s large format/65mm offerings were approved.
Still, these considerations are important for owner-operators, rental companies, and producers investing in equipment specifically for Netflix productions. After all, anyone responsible for capturing content for Netflix has no choice but to abide by their agreement.
Here’s a complete list of all cameras currently approved for use by Netflix.
90% of the footage used in any Netflix project must be shot using the following cameras, which meet their highly specific technical standards:
- Ali Alex LF
- Arri Alexa Mini LF
- Alexa 65
- Canon C300 MK II
- Canon C300 MK III
- Canon C500 MK II
- Canon C500
- Canon C700
- Canon C700FF
- Canon C70
- Panasonic VariCam 35
- Panasonic VariCam LT
- Panasonic VariCam Pure
- Panasonic EVA1
- Panasonic S1H
- Panasonic BGH1
- Panasonic AK-UC4000
- Red Weapon Monster 8K VV
- Red Weapon Dragon 8K VV
- Red Arms Helium 8K S35
- Red Epic-W Helium 8K S35
- Red Weapon Dragon 6K S35
- Red Epic Dragon 6K S35
- RED Epic-W Gemini 5K S35
- Red Scarlet-W Dragon 5K S35
- Red Crow 4.5K
- RED Ranger Monster 8K VV
- Red Ranger Helium 8K S35
- Red Ranger Gemini 5K S35
- Red Dragon-X 6K S35
- Red Komodo 6K
- Panavision DXL2
- sony venice
- Sony FX6
- SonyFX9
- Sony F55
- Sony F65
- Sony FS7
- Sony FS7 II
- Sony PXW-Z450
- Sony PXW-Z750
- Blackmagic URSA Mini 4.6K
- Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro 4.6K
- Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro 4.6K G2
Most of the cameras on this list are proven professional cinema products, with prices ranging from $15,000 to over $80,000, depending on model and configuration.
For most filmmakers, cameras in this price range are out of reach as a purchase and can only be rented as needed for individual projects.
But what if you really want to own a camera on this list and don’t want to spend too much money?
You may want to consider one of the following 3 cameras.
These are the cheapest cameras from Netflix’s approved list:
Lumix BGH1: $1999
The BGH1 is the cheapest camera on the Netflix-approved list, but given its modular design and need for accessories, some additional cost is inevitable. In order for the BGH1 to be useful as an A-camera in any real project, you’ll need at least a cage or rig and an external monitor. This can add anywhere from $500 to over $1000, depending on how you configure it. Still, it’s a relatively low-cost option.
The BGH1 is essentially the Lumix GH5, but with a different look and feel, aimed squarely at video professionals. From dual native ISO and internal 4:2:2 recording, to SDI output and remote control capabilities – this camera is packed with professional-grade features, making it extremely versatile.
Like all other Lumix GH cameras, it uses a Micro Four Thirds sensor, which is not the most popular sensor size… That said, some filmmakers (myself included) prefer crop sensor cameras because they can work with Lenses paired with a wider range of sensors. Not to mention, if you want the look of a larger sensor, a speed booster is always an option.
Still, I was a little surprised to see this camera on the list of Netflix-approved cameras, mainly because no other cameras in the Lumix GH series made the cut. In fact, based on form factor alone, the GH5 (or most other Lumix GH) cameras would be the more obvious choice for filmmakers. The box design is great, but most filmmakers use this type of camera on a drone, gimbal, or as a collision camera, and rarely as a dedicated A-frame camera.
Still, I’m glad it made the list because despite its quirks, the BGH1 is a capable camera that’s also quite affordable.
Sony FS7: $2,000 – $4,000 (used)
The original Sony FS7 was long ago replaced by the FS7 II, and the Sony FX series has become even less relevant since then. You can’t buy one new anymore, but you can pick one up on the used market for between $2,000 and $4,000, depending on condition.
Personally, I’ve never been a big fan of this camera…at least not for narrative production. Despite its powerful feature set and strong ergonomics, the image quality always left a lot to be desired – especially when color science and sports performance.
But at the same time, for some products, it’s a low-priced option that’s worth the money. The camera is easy to use in the field, performs well in low-light conditions, and (unlike the BGH1) it basically works out of the box with no accessories required.
FS7 wouldn’t be my choice, though, even if it’s technically approved by Netflix. There are many other options that can bring excellence to narrative production. But for filmmakers working in the reality/documentary/lifestyle space and want a cheaper alternative to the FX6, it’s worth considering.
URSA Mini 4.6K: $2,000 – $4,000 (used)
I took the whole URSA Mini 4.6K feature films I have nothing but great things to say about the camera…for the most part.
While there have been later bigger and better iterations of this camera (Ursa Mini Pro, G2, 12K, etc.), the original URSA Mini 4.6K remains a very capable cinema camera. However, like the Sony FS7, this camera can only be found on the used market, with prices ranging from $2,000 to $4,000.
The camera body has manual controls, is just light enough to be handheld without gear, and the image quality is truly gorgeous. It has a Super 35mm sensor and is available in EF and PL mounts, making it extremely versatile and compatible with a variety of lenses.
It does have its shortcomings – for example, it doesn’t perform well in low light sources and occasionally exhibits fixed pattern noise when underexposed. But all in all it’s worth the money. If you know how to fix its problems, it can hold its own against more expensive movie cameras.
My Favorite (Affordable) Netflix-Approved Cinema Camera
Of the three cameras listed above, my personal favorite choice is the URSA Mini 4.6K, followed by tHe was BGH1 and finally FS7.
URSA Mini gives you the best of both worlds: outstanding visual quality and powerful ergonomics. The visual effects of the other two cameras are not as strong (especially the FS7), but they also have their own advantages and are worthy of consideration by professional photographers.
But please keep in mind that this is just my subjective opinion based on the types of narrative projects I produce and direct. People with different visual tastes or different creative needs may have completely different perspectives and you can’t go wrong! Each tool has its own purpose.
In addition to the cameras mentioned above, there are four other cameras on Netflix’s approved list that are worth considering.
These cameras don’t cost as much as the first 3, but they are still relatively affordable and a good choice for those looking for a newer camera system:
- Canon C70 ($5,499)
- red komodo ($5,999)
- Sony FX6 ($5,999)
- Panasonic EVA1 ($6,495)
These latest products are an excellent choice for filmmakers and directors of photography.
Canon C70(I wrote about it here) is easy to use and delivers beautiful colors, just like the rest of the Canon Cinema range. RED Komodo will deliver the classic RED look and workflow at a fraction of the normal cost. The FX6 is one of the best cameras Sony has ever made under $10,000. The Panasonic EVA1 (even though it’s a few years old) has an excellent design and has very strong color science.
Do you need a Netflix-approved camera?
If you need to find an affordable, Netflix-approved camera, I hope this list is helpful.
But keep in mind that in most cases, it doesn’t make sense to choose a camera based solely on whether it’s Netflix-approved. There are many other amazing options that are not on this list but are also worth considering.
For example, my Fuji X-T4 is an amazing camera and I often recommend it to filmmakers on a budget. It didn’t make it to Netflix’s approved list, nor did the dozens of other cameras that (in my opinion) displace many of the approved cameras.
Ultimately, Netflix’s reasons for adding the camera to its approval list are different than your reasons as a filmmaker.
For them, it’s not about the creative merits of the camera or what it can produce from an artistic perspective. It’s about whether the camera meets a strict set of technical standards, which in many cases has no bearing on the artistic merit of the final product.
As mentioned above: most Arri Alexa camera bodies are not listed here (LF/65mm versions only) because their resolution is not high enough.
But does this mean the Arri Alexa SXT is a worse camera than the Sony FS7? Of course not.
It’s impossible for Netflix (or anyone else) to quantify subjective visual attributes, so they can only rely on technical benchmarks. In my opinion, this is an oversight that will continue to frustrate DPs and directors in the long run because they know they can (in some cases) get better results using cameras that aren’t Netflix approved .
Hopefully this will change in time, but for now we have no choice but to abide by Netflix’s rules…
For more exclusive articles like this every Sunday, sign up for my newsletter here .
For exclusive filmmaking articles every Sunday, sign up for my newsletter here!
