I tested many cameras and found the Canon EOS Rebel T6 is the best camera for skateboarding.
Skateboard photography can be challenging and rewarding. It’s a fast-changing environment, and skateboarders move quickly.
All skateboard enthusiasts and athletes understand why it’s important to record performance. Personally, the recordings allow me to see what parts of a technique require improvement. Further, skateboarders also require records to capture scenic views. If you’re a skateboarder who needs to carry a digital lens during trips, it’s time to choose the best camera for skateboarding.
First, I would want a durable camera that can withstand the rigors of skateboarding. Second, I must select a camera that captures high-quality video and photos. Last, the camera should be easy to use. This allows me to focus on skating and not fumbling with equipment.
I’m in love with the Canon EOS Rebel T6 because it comes with a big sensor for better image quality, and you can swap lenses. The T6 is a descendant of one of the most popular point-and-shoot cameras. It is easy to use and at an affordable price point.
Over the years of sports recording, I’ve come across some of the best cameras for skateboard filming, action cameras, and more. I have notes of all the equipment, so picking the right choice should be easy.
Are you ready to capture memories of your adventures? Let’s explore the best options available for skaters.
Top 10 Cameras for Skateboarding
Here’s my list of the top 10 best cameras for skateboarders and enthusiasts.
- Overall Best Camera for Skateboarding Photography: Canon EOS Rebel T6
- Best Camera for Filming Skateboarding: GoPro Hero 9
- Best Action Camera for skateboarding: Canon VIXIA HF R800
- Best Budget Action Cameras for skateboarding: AKASO EK7000
- Best Compact camera for skateboarding: Replay XD 1080
- Best Camcorder for Filming Skateboarding: Panasonic 4K Ultra Camcorder HC-VX981K
- Best DSLR for Filming Skateboarding: Canon EOS 80D
- Best Nikon Camera for skateboarding: Nikon D850
- Best Canon Camera for skateboarding: Canon EOS Rebel T7
- Best Sony Camera for skateboarding: Sony VX1000
10 Best Cameras for Skateboarding Reviewed
Below are the best camera options that can help you capture amazing skateboarding videos at reasonable rates.
1. Overall Best Camera for Skateboarding Photography: Canon EOS Rebel T6
The Canon EOS Rebel T6 is a DSLR camera suitable for individuals looking for a beginner-friendly and affordable option. I can combine the camera body with a lens attachment of choice, whether a zoom or fisheye lens. The design allows using a different lens for diverse purposes and unique shots.
I love how this camera feels in my hand. It weighs a pound with the lens and two with a standard 18-55mm lens that comes with it, so it feels light. While large, the T6 fits well in my small hands with an ergonomic grip on the right side. , so the thumb and pointer finger fall in appropriate locations. With these features, I can easily hold this camera and take more sharp, clear skateboarding videos.
I love that the lens mount fits EF and EF-S lenses, making the Rebel T6 an excellent place to start and expand my lens collection. The mount design allows me to use a wide range of Canon lenses. Plus, all the lenses I purchase to work with the T6 are usable on other cameras after upgrading.
I also like the external control. It offers most setting options upfront without digging through cameras. Another good thing is the T6 reduces the number of unnecessary buttons. The overall button design ensures choices do not overwhelm new DSLR users. These features make the camera more user-friendly and convenient to operate as well.
Settings are available on the menu that is viewable from a 3-inch display. I’m very satisfied with the hot shoe for connecting to and controlling multiple accessories, including flashes and wireless triggers, making things convenient for me. Moreover, a built-in flash feature doesn’t add weight to the camera while giving me extra light in dark conditions.
One more feature I love about this camera is it boasts an 18 million pixels sensor and a DIGIC 4+ processor. It might look like old technology compared to newer Canon models with a DIGIC 7 processor, but I can take crisp, sharp, noise-free images, especially in low-light conditions. It’s sufficient for starting my journey as a skateboarding photographer.
I love the 9-point autofocusing system with a central cross-type point. It helps me improve autofocus speed and accuracy, which is sufficient for a hobbyist photographer.
I appreciate the native sensitivity from as low as ISO 100 for shooting in the bright outdoors to avoid possible image noise, and overly exposed images.
An enormous benefit of the Rebel T6 is its 3-inch, 920k-dot unit LCD screen, wide enough to compose shots. With that, I can view images and menus more clearly.
I enjoy the built-in NFC and Wi-Fi connectivity, which allows for better camera control from my phone and easy photo sharing online or with other devices.
I was thrilled that the Canon EOS Rebel T6 offers excellent battery life with 500 shots per single charge. This lets me get more photos of each day without relying on a backup.
One of the biggest reasons I recommend the Rebel T6 for skateboarding photography beginners is an on-screen shooting guide that makes things easier for novices. The camera supports raw capture, which is handy when I want to edit images later.
Conclusion
The Canon EOS Rebel T6 is an excellent option because of the savings. A side-by-side comparison with other cameras reveals the T6 is worth the cost. This camera is a versatile option with multiple lenses for creative photo and video shots.
2. Best Camera for Filming Skateboarding: GoPro Hero 9
GoPro is a trusted brand famous for its high-quality and performance gadgets. I love the GoPro Hero 9 Black because it records smooth and clear skateboarding videos.
This amazing camera boasts a large 20-megapixel sensor, which helps improve still photography. Moreover, an extended dynamic range ensures I can push the details out of shadows and highlights when editing shots.
One of the biggest game-changing features of the Hero 9 is an improvement in low-light quality. This feature helps me avoid grainy or noisy low-light shots. It also makes my skateboarding shots look appealing to the viewer’s eye.
The coolest thing I love about this camera is it l shoots 5k video with a 30fps frame rate. What’s good is that 5K video offers a 50% larger resolution compared to 4k. This means I can shoot in 5k mode and get much room to crop into the video without a resolution loss.
Moreover, shooting in 5k allows me to do exciting pans, rotations, and zooms while skateboarding and exporting the video at a full 4k. I like this feature because I get to do all this conveniently.
Built-in HyperSmooth technology is an image stabilization feature. With that, I can shoot while skating and still get smooth footage. The camera features HyperSmooth 3.0, which automatically adjusts the crop to ensure the horizon is as nearly level as possible. This feature makes me comfortable because it helps me create aesthetically pleasing videos, though a level horizon is not always necessary when filming a skateboard.
The feature was only available in post-production or through the GoPro app on previous models. The current configuration helps me save time when editing. However, horizon leveling only works if shooting in linear mode.
I also like TimeWarp, a GoPro hyper lapse feature that lets me tap the screen to toggle between real-time and quick-time. The Hero 9 Black camera has TimeWarp 3.0, which allows me to set hyperlapse to real-time and drop it to slo-mo. With that, I can record in real-time and record audio along with the video.
Another feature I love about the GoPro Hero 9 is the inclusion of a color front LCD screen. This feature makes nailing the perfect selfie easy. I frequently use the screen to ensure I stay within the frame while vlogging. Additionally, the screen makes showing the center crop, camera settings, or accurate representation effortless.
It’s difficult to get the right time to hit the shutter when planning skateboarding shots. The good thing is that Hero 9 allows setting the exact time I want a recording to start, put it in place, and walk away, making things convenient for me.
As a handy camera, I think the Hindsight feature brings a lot to me. It records 30 seconds of footage before hitting the shutter. With these nifty features, I can capture exciting moments without knowing when they will occur, such as when someone performs a 360 flip.
Another aspect I love about GoPro is the extensive number of accessories you can get along with the camera. The list of accessories includes dive housings, selfie sticks, and clamps. My favorite accessory for skateboarding videos is the Max Lens Mode.
The modular accessory replaces the GoPro Hero 9 lens cover. It offers a super-wide perspective and an excellent field of view.
Conclusion
The GoPro Hero 9 is worth my money for all the hardware it brings, including a dual display, HyperSmooth technology, and multiple accessories. It allows viewers to view experiences through my eyes, no matter what crazy stunts I take on!
3. Best Action Camera for Skateboarding: Canon VIXIA HF R800
The Canon VIXIA HF R800 is a tiny, barrel-shaped camcorder that will shock skateboarders accustomed to larger video cameras. The device has a few buttons because it has a touchscreen functionality I adore. A physical lens cover on the side conveniently protects the lens when not used.
I love that at the top are the zoom slider and a record button next to the battery for easy control. Canon hides buttons and ports under the LCD panel, offering a seamless look I cherish. These controls include an on and off button, an SD card slot, a USB mini-AB port, a headphone out port, a microphone port, and a mini HDMI port.
I also like that the LCD swings outward, and has a tilt control with a 180-degree swivel-up control and a 90-degree downward tilt. The configuration is useful when I need to use the camcorder for vlogging. Plus, a touchscreen offers easy access to the menu system.
I can use the HF R800 to shoot footage at 1080p and 60fps between 17Mbps and 35Mbps, and 720p and 60fps images at 4Mbps. I prefer having a range of resolution and frame rate options. With these, I can create more flowy clips.
The camcorder saves directly to a standard SD card. I can import the images to another device by removing the card or using a mini-AB USB cable. File transfers are pain-free, and I haven’t faced any issues pulling footage. This makes things convenient for me.
The Canon camcorder has some basic built-in functionality to trim clips and add attractive effects. In-camera editing is a convenient feature I’ve come to appreciate. I’ve cut down my post-production time tremendously.
I’m in love with the 32 times optical zoom (57 times in advanced mode), which helps get closer to distant skateboarders and capture unique moments.
Image stabilization does an excellent job when walking and using the Canon VIXIA in a handheld position. The feature is an excellent addition when I don’t have much light or don’t have a tripod. I’m very satisfied with the result: blur-free images at slower shutter speeds.
The built-in 0.5 times slow motion mode and time-lapse function allow shooting skateboarding videos from 2:1 to 1200:1 ratios for unbelievable video content. I use the slo-mo mode to add suspense to my skateboarding videos. Time-lapse lets me record long-duration videos and roll them faster than the average playback speed, saving me time when watching extensive footage.
The next feature I appreciate about this camera is the zoom framing assist feature at the top of the screen. The function helps reduce magnification and locate the subject before using my previous zoom level. An included highlight priority mode is a pleasant surprise that attempts to correct backlight in bright scenarios.
I’m very satisfied with the 3.28MP full HD CMOS image sensor. It offers 1920 by 1080 resolution videos for crisp digital video that doesn’t fill my storage space. Included with the sensor is extra sensitivity for delivering lifelike full HD video with natural colors. I like this feature because it makes my skateboarding videos feel exciting, lively, mysterious, and more.
An advanced HD DIGIC DV 4 image processor increases performance for better noise reduction and noise-free images in dark environments, thus helping me make the videos look cleaner and clearer.
Conclusion
When I picked up the Canon VIXIA HF R800, it was one of the few entry-level camcorders with an external mic input. I get a decent video with options for automating the shooting experience or doing it manually. This feature makes VIXIA an excellent device for learning the ropes of skateboarding videos. Finally, I get multiple shooting modes, including Backlight Correction and Priority Mode, which help improve my shots.
4. Best Budget Action Camera for Skateboarding: AKASO EK7000
The AKASO EK7000 might look familiar. It looks a lot like a GoPro. It offers the same quality photos and videos.
But here’s the kicker: they price it at just a fraction of the GoPro, and AKASO comes with more accessories than I know what to do with!
I’ve been using the EK7000 for a while now, and it is easy to see why this is one of the better, low-priced GoPro competitors on the market. I love that it offers 4k videos at 25fps, which is suitable for online sharing videos.
I can shoot photos up to 12MP, measuring 4608 by 2592 pixels in a 16:9 aspect ratio, which is the most common for video recording. However, I can reduce the photo size to 4MP, which allows me to transfer files quickly and access the files immediately for viewing online.
I also love the burst mode, which allows shooting a sequence of still images and never missing a fleeting skateboarding moment.
Action cameras don’t offer great battery life performance. The EK7000 surprised me as it squeezes about 100 minutes when shooting in 4k at 25fps and 1080p at 30fps. The unit has a spare battery, which can be a lifesaver for long trips.
I can connect the EK7000 to my Android or iOS phone using the AKASO Go app. It’s easy to preview what the lens is pointing at and record or take photos. The app also makes it easy to adjust shooting modes and resolutions. Moreover, built-in 2.4GHz Wi-Fi allows easy sharing and editing of my footage with the app.
I was thrilled that the included 100-foot waterproof housing allows shooting footage even in wet weather. Plus, included mounts ensure exceptional photos when attaching the AKASO EK7000 to my helmet.
Other features I love about this budget camera include:
- An adjustable 170-degree field of view
- Support for a 64GB microSD card
- Compatibility with iOS, Android, and macOS operating systems
The EK7000 is small and light enough to slip into a pocket, which is exactly what I want from an action camera. On the camera body are four buttons for easy navigation.
Conclusion
The AKASO EK7000 is a cheerful and cheap unit that handles the basics well enough. It’s perfect for anyone who doesn’t want to spend a bundle on an action camera. Multiple quality features and a wide-angle camera make the unit stand out in the market.
5. Best Compact Camera for Skateboarding: Replay XD 1080
As soon as I picked up the Replay XD 1080, I fell in love with its compact, small package size. The mounting possibilities for the device in tight spots make it a worthy contender as one of the best compact camera options for skateboarding.
I love that the XD 1080 comes with four mounts, which boosts my creativity opportunities right out of the box without investing more cash.
The sturdy design boasts a hard-anodized aluminum body to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. What’s good is it’s one of the lightest and smallest 1080p action cameras on the market today.
The diminutive size and bulk-less design mean I can mount it in tight corners where other cameras will not fit. Lightweight construction allows mounting the camera on a helmet and other applications where excess mass is a problem.
I also love the ground-up design of the design. It takes abuse and is waterproof up to three meters without using a special enclosure or case. With this feature, I captured some special moments in rainy conditions.
The aluminum body makes the Replay XD 1080, while the rubberized and sealed buttons will not allow debris to sneak in. Another user-friendly feature I found is the vibration feedback with each key press. It makes me feel comfortable when using the camera’s controls, and adjusting settings while shooting.
Connecting the XD 1080 mini camera to my external microphone is a breeze using the built-in port. I love using the connection feature. It ensures I record high-quality audio with each video.
Beyond the features above, I’m in love with the pricing. I don’t have to purchase extra cases to keep the XD 1080 safe from the elements. The Replay model simplifies footage capture for me and helps keep costs down.
I get a 120-degree field of view and a removable front bezel that allows swapping in an aftermarket lens and filter. The feature also makes it one of the most versatile compact options.
Replay XD 1080 mini captures 720p at 60fps and 1080p at 30fps. The 30fps setting doesn’t look choppy, but it’s not as smooth as the 60fps.
Advanced settings are accessible via a text file on the microSD card. The settings are basic for anyone with elementary computer skills. I appreciate the inclusion of the file. With that, I can change more settings than are on other action cameras.
The Replay XD 1080 mini camera boasts a live view mode by connecting it to a computer using an HDMI cable. The port also allows live streaming to my TV or using the camera as a high-end webcam.
Included in the XD 1080 packaging is:
- A LowBoy fixed mount
- HeimLock adjustable mount
- Flat and curved VHB Snap Trays
- A mini USB cable
- Camera bag
Conclusion
The Replay XD 1080 is my favorite compact cam. It leads the crowd with a solid aluminum construction and high-usability factor. The unit is well put together in a nearly perfect package for skateboarding use.
6. Best Camcorder for Filming Skateboarding: Panasonic 4K Ultra Camcorder HC-VX981K
The Panasonic HC-VX981K is my go-to camcorder when I want to catch all the skateboarding action in 4K. I recommend this camcorder because it offers simple yet powerful operation for all user levels.
An integrated Backside-Illuminated (BSI) MOS detector allows more light at the pixel level. The result is improved low-light performance I love. I enjoy taking interpolated still images with the 25.9MP camera.
I can pull still photos from 4K video frames using a photo feature. Performing zooming, stabilization, tracking, cropping, and panning to my 4K footage is easy, thanks to in-camera editing tools.
The Leica Dicomar lens is a special feature I enjoy because it offers 20 times optical zoom. A built-in intelligent zoom boost helps increase the range up to 40 times for full HD and 25 times during 4K recording. I love that I can focus on the subject by cropping the image size without the degradation that comes with digital zooms.
Panasonic’s HYBRID O.I.S. + technology in the HC-VX981K maintains minimal image vibration for steady handheld shooting. The technology combines digital and optical image stabilization to offer 5-axis correction. I combine the technology with Panasonic’s Level Shot function to achieve better, stable-looking, level, and clearer skateboarding footage.
The built-in Wi-Fi support must be one of my favorite features. A wireless multi-camera feature supports Picture-in-Picture (PIP) recording via Wi-Fi and connected smartphones. I connect up to three phones simultaneously and can use two to record PIP images for multi-angle shots and viewpoints.
Wi-Fi also makes sharing live stream videos via USTREAM easy with fans while recording. An included baby monitor feature lets me use my smartphone to check on my sleeping toddler in another room quickly.
I recommend the Panasonic HC-VX981K for several reasons, including:
- It boasts a small measurement and compact design
- Carrying the camera is easy and without hassle
- A touchscreen feature and a sizable 3-inch LCD
- More connectivity options through USB and HDMI
Conclusion
The Panasonic 4K Ultra Camcorder HC-VX981K is an excellent option for devoted skateboarding enthusiasts. It offers outstanding specs, serious in-camera editing capabilities without dealing with clunky software, and wireless multi-camera capabilities.
7. Best DSLR for Filming Skateboarding: Canon EOS 80D
The Canon EOS 80D features an impressive 45-point autofocus system, high-ISO performance, and improved dynamic range. Dual-pixel AF technology offers seamless focus during Live View and video, making this my best DSLR for capturing video.
While plastic, the construction is weather-resistant enough to withstand a couple of raindrops. Holding the 80D feels comfortable and well-balanced thanks to a contoured and substantial grip. My hand, neck, and shoulder get no strain when carrying this 1.6-pound camera with a memory card and battery but no lens.
My favorite feature in this camera is the hot shoe for an external flash for superior control over lighting. I’m also in love with the built-in flash for adding fill-in flash in bright light conditions.
I love the HDMI mini output that allows creating an extension of the camera to a separate monitor, so positioning the viewing screen wherever and however I like is easy.
The 24.2MP CMOS sensor and DIGIC 6 image processor ensure I get high-resolution imagery with minimal noise and notable clarity. The processor and sensor combination ensures fast performance in the 80D system for continuous shooting at up to 7fps or 1080p at 60fps, which makes taking videos convenient for me.
I also love the wide-area 45-point all-cross-type AF system that offers precise and fast focusing, especially in low light conditions. 27 points can focus to f/8 for better precision at bright aperture values. The 45 sensors are excellent for subject tracking and focus maintenance, especially when shooting skateboarding videos.
Other noteworthy features in the 80D include:
- Built-in Wi-Fi with NFC
- A ClearView II touchscreen LCD with vari-angle for high and low image capture angles
- 100% frame coverage for improved accuracy for eye-level shots
- Anti-flicker function
- HDR effects for still shots
Conclusion
The Canon EOS 80D is an excellent model way to step up from the Rebel line. I get beautiful videos and photos, and headphone and mic jacks are a major asset for aspiring videographers.
8. Best Nikon Camera for Skateboarding: Nikon D850
A big decision when investigating top-flight mirrorless cameras is whether I require speed or megapixels. Thankfully, the Nikon D850 offers me both. The features make it the best Nikon model for skateboard video and photography.
Skateboarding photographers have had to sacrifice one for the other. Speed is critical, but a lower resolution means I sacrifice detail and capability to crop into images. The resolution does pack in the pixels, but it also means I’m not getting the same burst rates—and miss a few critical shots.
This isn’t the case with the D850, which delivers an impressive 45.7MP full-frame images at up to 9fps. Further, I enjoy the ultra-reliable phase-detect autofocus system 8K timelapse videos, uncropped 4K video, quality weather sealing, and everything I’d want from a skateboarding camera.
I like that the 153-point phase-detection system does an excellent job of keeping up with the action. The D850 recognizes most sizes and shapes of subjects, delivering an impressive hit rate of keep-worthy pictures.
I get a 9fps burst shooting whenever I include a separate multi-power battery pack from Nikon, but the default rate is 7fps. This feature helps me capture smooth, lifelike motion – whether slow-motion or fast-moving action.
I enjoy getting uncompressed RAW files, which allow me to manipulate several aspects of my photos, like noise reduction, sharpness, color, and brightness, with minimum loss of quality.
One way of getting top performance from this camera is by adding a fast Cf express or XQD memory card.
I was thrilled that the default battery keeps me shooting until sundown. I can squeeze an impressive 2,000 shots out of a single battery charge, so I can camp out at the skatepark and never worry about running out of juice. Other interesting camera features include:
- Built-in SnapBridge connectivity via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and Wi-Fi
- A negative digitizer mode for film negatives and slides
- RAW file shooting
- Picture control modes
- Multi-language support
I also like the large 3.2-inch LCD that offers clear, bright, vivid image playback and live views. I use the screen tilting design when working from high and low angles. The touchscreen ensures intuitive camera control, navigation, and operation, making the camera more user-friendly.
Conclusion
The Nikon D850 is an absolute monster for anyone looking for resolution and speed in a DSLR. I love the phenomenal image quality I get from the 45.7MP lens. The D850 is an advanced tool I recommend for expert users.
9. Best Canon Camera for Skateboarding: Canon EOS Rebel T7
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 offers multiple remarkable features and excellent shooting quality.
Despite its compact size, the camera is an impressive device for skateboarding. I found that the different focusing options, modes, and automatic scene intelligence make the T7 unique from others in its class.
The Rebel T7 offers me three different ways of viewing my live shots. First is the 3-inch LCD. Second is a built-in optical viewfinder close to the external flash.
My favorite way to view live shooting is through the Wi-Fi feature. The function is especially handy when having solo shooting sessions, saving time and allowing me to adjust everything from focus points to raising the flash.
I use the Wi-Fi function to send recorded videos and photos to my other cameras, printer, phone, or computer. The feature is especially convenient when working on my personal computer, which can’t accommodate SD cards or USB cords.
The camera’s battery life is impressive too. Battery life plays a major role in my purchase decision, especially because I use the T7 for videography. I get two to three and a half hours between each charge, which is impressive compared to other camera models I’ve used. Using the optical viewfinder instead of the LCD helps preserve the battery even longer.
The 9-point autofocus system works best in high-contrast scenes. It is fast enough to focus on a skateboard and the road surface. Continuous shooting and AF also work well when photographing a skater doing a 360 turn.
The Rebel T7 offers me several picture modes, my favorite options include:
- Auto
- Portrait
- Neutral
- Three user-defined settings
Conclusion
I was impressed by the image quality I get from the Canon EOS Rebel T7, and the minimal editing for most photos. Camera prices range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of bucks, and having a camera that offers excellent video and images for cheap is ideal. The T7 is not the flashiest or most extravagant device on the market, but I recommend it for skateboard action.
10. Best Sony Camera for Skateboarding: Sony DCR-VX1000
The Sony DCR-VX1000 is a special, albeit old, addition to this list of the best cameras for skateboarding. The camcorder captures high-quality digital video and was a portability marvel back in 1995.
The Digital Video (DV) standard was first announced in 1995. It had specifications for video storage compression techniques, formatting, tape cassettes, and tape characteristics. I think the VX1000 is the best DV product, offering an enhanced balance of high video quality at a consumer price.
This VX1000 Handycam is the first device to use three Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) sensors for image capture. The system has a prism that splits incoming light into blues, greens, and reds. Each CCD captures a different color and combines them into a single full-color rendering. The arrangement ensures exceptionally good color fidelity.
I appreciate that each CCD records 410,000 pixels, which helps create low-noise, high-quality images comparable to what I get from my standard-definition TV. The VX1000 stores content on cassette tapes, which add a nostalgic element to my skateboarding videos.
This Sony camera was the first unit to adopt the IEEE 1394 interface. Apple calls the technology FireWire, and Sony calls it i-Link. The interface allows the camcorder to download the digital video directly to computers, an exciting feature for videographers (like myself) and news teams back then.
This was a first for professional videographers and news crews. The VX1000 boasts a sturdy cabinet and a handle that allows one-handed handling. With this feature, I can shoot videos from multiple angles for added drama.
I love the Super SteadyShot image stabilization system, which compensates for vibration and shaking using physical motion sensors and correctors. Further, I can replace the standard lens with a fish eye.
Some interesting VX1000 features include:
- 10:1 power zoom lens
- Precision color LCD
- External stereo mic input
- Manual controls for exposure, white balance, and custom preset controls
- 60-minute recording on cassette
Conclusion
The Sony DCR-VX1000 is a firm favorite for skateboarding videos because of the color warmth it delivers. It’s easy to manually manipulate the glow to manipulate specific aspects, no matter the lighting conditions. The camera is durable and easy to repair, making it ideal for the abuse skateboarding dishes out to these devices.
7 Things to Consider When Buying a Camera for Skateboarding
Filming all the tricks and sharing them is fun. But can’t you use any available camera and record the videos?
It’s critical to note that different cameras have unique characteristics. Some units are best for motion, others for high resolution, etc. So, you must choose a camera ideal for recording skateboarding videos and still shots.
Let’s shed some light on these characteristics.
1. Price
Skateboarding photographers must consider an option within their price range. Cheaper options are great for starting, mid-range units offer you space to grow, and expensive cameras are ideal for long-term use.
I recommend setting up a narrow price window for your camera. For example, you’ll get an overwhelming number of options if you want to spend under $1,000. A budget of between $600 to $1,000 significantly reduces the choices.
Also, consider what other accessories you may require when considering the camera budget. Don’t spend the entire amount on the camera body alone. Instead, look for a camera bundle that includes a lens, tripod, extra batteries, external flash, and memory cards.
2. Camera Types
You can choose a point-and-shoot, bridge, DSLR, mirrorless, or action camera.
Point-and-shoot cameras are convenient and compact. They have automatic modes for easy photography and are small enough to fit into a pocket.
Bridge cameras offer more control over the settings, improved ergonomics, rugged bodies, and larger grips.
A DSLR camera gives users many control options, with advanced options allowing complex autofocus tracking, fast continuous shooting, and rugged frames. These units also let you use an assortment of flashes, lenses, and other gadgets for different creative effects.
Mirrorless cameras pack most of the DSLR features in smaller bodies, promising better versatility and quality.
Action cameras are small, rugged, and waterproof, focusing on video capture. You can mount such devices on your helmet or body for a unique first-person perspective.
3. Weight and Size
Size is a personal preference that’s also very subjective. What a beginner considers big might seem small to the professional.
Larger compact cameras are suitable for big hands. Small devices may feel OK to hold, but the button placement is too close that it becomes awkward using them.
I recommend reading online reviews and judging a camera’s size by its dimensions compared to a smartphone if you can’t go to a store in person.
4. Video Quality
Some digital cameras offer high-end features, such as 4K Ultra HD resolutions, super slow-mo, time-lapse, multiple frame rates, and high-speed recording.
Models with interchangeable lenses are your best bet for creating videos that rival the top short-film makers.
The main video quality features to look for in a camera for skateboarding include:
- Standard frame rates of 24fps and 30fps, but over 60fps is excellent for slow-motion videos
- 4K video offers better image quality at 24fps and 30fps
- External mic input for the best audio
- A clean HDMI out port for recording to external devices
5. Video Modes
Video mode is a setting in many cameras. The mode allows the unit to keep the shutter open to capture moving images.
Video mode allows customizing several options, including:
- The shutter speed
- Aperture for depth-of-field control
- ISO for camera sensitivity
6. Image Stabilization
Image stabilization can mean using a tripod with a head for smooth camera control for video.
Devices with in-body stabilization allow better motion freedom for added dynamism to your skateboarding video projects.
Most cameras with image stabilization have modes to cancel out shakes and smooth things out as you move them.
7. Durability
The last thing you want to worry about is whether the camera can handle outdoor conditions or if it will break down once you’re far from home. You don’t want to spend your time looking for a repair shop.
A few things that make your camera durable are:
- Splash-proof and dustproof designs
- Freezeproof for extreme conditions
- Waterproofing
Conclusion
Every skateboarding photographer expects different things from their cameras, depending on their style and needs. However, the best cameras for skateboarding have standard critical features. These include durable construction, good image quality, image stabilization, and a compact design.
The Canon EOS Rebel T6 is easily my favorite choice for skateboarding photography. Photos look like they come from a mirrorless or DSLR camera with the same-sized sensor, so it’s a big step up from a point-and-shoot or phone. Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity allows easy sharing with tablets and smartphones. Finally, the T6 is compatible with a wide selection of lenses and accessories.
Skateboarding is an exciting sport, and only the best cameras can capture the action. Purchase one of these 10 best cameras for skateboarding using the product links and take your photography skills to a higher level.
