Vlogging, short for video blogging, has become a powerful medium for self-expression, education, and entertainment. Among the myriad of features to consider when choosing a vlogging camera, a flip screen is often a game-changer. In this article, we’ll explore why using a camera with a flip screen is crucial for vlogging and what separates a good vlogging camera with a flip screen from a bad one.
Related: 11 Best Vlogging Cameras with Flip Screen
Why Use a Camera with Flip Screen for Vlogging?
Before diving into what makes a good vlogging camera with a flip screen, let’s understand why a flip screen is such a valuable asset for bloggers.
Framing and Composition
One of the most significant advantages of a flip screen is the ability to see yourself while recording. This feature allows vloggers to ensure they are properly framed and in focus, reducing the chances of awkwardly cropped shots or unintentional distractions in the background. It also helps maintain eye contact with the audience, creating a more engaging and personable connection.
Confidence and Interaction
Vlogging often requires speaking directly to the camera, and a flip screen can boost a vlogger’s confidence by providing real-time feedback. When you can see yourself as you record, it’s easier to adjust your posture, expressions, and gestures, ensuring that your message comes across more effectively. Plus, it facilitates audience interaction by allowing you to monitor comments or questions while filming, enhancing the live engagement experience.
Versatility
A flip screen isn’t just handy for capturing yourself; it’s also helpful when filming other subjects or shooting in different angles and scenarios. You can easily flip the screen to see what the camera is capturing, whether it’s a breathtaking landscape, an interview with a guest, or a close-up product review. This versatility is a vlogger’s best friend, enabling diverse content creation without needing a camera assistant.
Now that we’ve established why a flip screen is essential for vlogging, let’s explore the key features that make a vlogging camera with a flip screen good.
What Makes a Good Vlogging Camera with Flip Screen?
High-Quality Display
The quality of the flip screen matters. Look for a camera with a high-resolution screen that reproduces colors accurately and provides ample brightness for outdoor shooting. A touchscreen interface can also be a significant advantage, making it easier to adjust settings and control focus with a simple tap.
Vari-angle or Fully Articulating Screen
A vlogging camera’s flip screen should be flexible in its movement. Vari-angle or fully articulating screens are ideal, as they allow you to position the screen at different angles, including facing forward, downward, or to the side. This flexibility ensures you can frame your shots perfectly, whether you’re shooting yourself, a group, or a scene.
Autofocus and Face Tracking
Fast and accurate autofocus is essential for vlogging, as it keeps you in sharp focus, even when you’re moving around or at varying distances from the camera. Look for a camera with advanced autofocus technology and face-tracking capabilities, ensuring your face remains the center of attention.
Audio Input Options
Great video deserves great audio. A good vlogging camera should provide multiple audio input options, such as a built-in microphone, external microphone jack, or even XLR inputs for professional-grade audio recording. Clear and crisp audio enhances the overall quality of your vlogs.
Compact and Portable
Vloggers are often on the go, so a good camera should be lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around. However, it should not compromise on features and image quality. The best vlogging cameras strike a balance between portability and performance.
What Makes a Bad Vlogging Camera with Flip Screen?
While there are many excellent vlogging cameras with flip screens on the market, not all of them are created equal. Here are some characteristics that can make a vlogging camera with a flip screen less than ideal:
Low-Quality Display
A camera with a flip screen that has poor color accuracy, low resolution, or limited brightness can hinder your ability to monitor your shots accurately. This can result in poorly framed or improperly exposed footage.
Limited Screen Movement
A flip screen that only tilts up or down, without the ability to rotate fully, can limit your creativity and make it challenging to frame certain shots, especially when you need to film from unique angles.
Slow or Inaccurate Autofocus
Cameras with slow or unreliable autofocus can be frustrating for vloggers, as they may constantly go in and out of focus, leading to subpar video quality.
Lack of Audio Options
A vlogging camera that lacks audio input options can leave you stuck with subpar onboard microphones, making it challenging to capture high-quality audio for your vlogs.
Bulky and Heavy
While some cameras offer exceptional features, they can be large and heavy, making them less practical for vloggers who are constantly on the move.
Final thoughts
A good vlogging camera with a flip screen can significantly enhance your vlogging experience by improving framing, boosting confidence, and increasing versatility. When choosing a vlogging camera, prioritize features like a high-quality display, flexible screen movement, reliable autofocus, audio input options, and portability. Avoid cameras with subpar displays, limited screen movement, slow autofocus, poor audio options, or excessive bulk. With the right camera in hand, you’ll be well-equipped to create engaging and high-quality vlogs that resonate with your audience.
