The Best Camera Setups for Filming Hunts
- Ben Gifford
- Sep 12
- 3 min read
Filming hunts in Upstate New York is a unique challenge in outdoor videography. Unlike studio shoots or casual wildlife filming, you’re dealing with unpredictable lighting, weather, long days in the field, and the need to stay silent and stealthy. The right camera setup can make or break your footage—and help you capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments in the woods. Here are a few options of the best camera setups for filming hunts.
Camcorders for Long Recording Sessions
Dedicated camcorders are one of the top choices for hunt filming because they’re built for long shooting times, smooth zoom control, and field durability.
Top picks:
Canon XA60 – Compact, lightweight, great for documentary-style filming.
Sony PXW-Z90V – Professional 4K camcorder with excellent autofocus and long recording capability.
Camera Model | Resolution | Weight | Best For | Price Range |
4K UHD | 1.6 lbs | Lightweight, documentary-style use | $$ | |
4K HDR | 2.1 lbs | Professional broadcast-quality | $$$$ |
Action Cameras for Tough Conditions
Small, rugged, and versatile, action cameras are perfect for POV angles and tough weather.
Top picks:
GoPro Hero 12 Black – Rugged, waterproof, excellent stabilization.
Insta360 X5 360 – Modular design, 360° capture, great for creative shots.
Camera Model | Resolution | Durability | Best For | Price Range |
5.3K 60fps | Waterproof | POV + rugged hunting use | $$ | |
8K 360° | Waterproof | 360 shots, creative POVs | $$ |
Drones for Aerial Perspectives
Drones bring a cinematic edge to hunt films by showcasing landscapes and adding variety.
Top picks:
DJI Mini 4 Pro – Lightweight, easy to carry, FAA-friendly.
DJI Air 3 – Dual camera system, advanced image quality.
Drone Model | Flight Time | Camera Specs | Best For | Price Range |
~34 minutes | 4K/60fps, 48MP | Portable, legal carry-anywhere | $$$ | |
~46 minutes | Dual 4K cameras | Pro cinematic aerial filming | $$$$ |
Tip: Always check local regulations before flying drones while hunting—laws vary by state, and drones may be restricted during active hunts.
DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras for Flexibility
DSLR and mirrorless cameras offer cinematic quality and interchangeable lenses, but they’re heavier to carry in the field.
Top picks:
Canon R6 / R6 Mark II – Excellent low-light performance, fast autofocus.
Sony A7S III – Industry-leading video quality and dynamic range.
Lens pairing tips:
A 70-200mm f/2.8 lens balances reach and light-gathering ability.
A 24-70mm f/2.8 lens covers wide to mid-range shots.
Camera Model | Sensor Type | Best Feature | Ideal Lens Pairing | Price Range |
Full-frame | Low-light performance | 70-200mm or 24-70mm | $$$$ | |
Full-frame | Dynamic range & video | 24-70mm or wide primes | $$$$$ |
5. Essential Accessories for Hunt Filming
Tripod or monopod – For stable long-lens shots.
External microphone – Capture natural sound and whisper commentary.
Extra batteries – Cold weather drains them quickly.
ND filters – Control light in bright conditions.
Weather protection – Rain covers, lens hoods, dry bags.
Manfrotto or Realtree clamps and arms – Mount cameras in tree stands, blinds, or vehicles without bulky tripods.
Camo accessories – Camo wraps and covers help your setup blend into the environment and reduce reflections.
Tip: For better audio while whispering, place your shotgun mic on the camera's shoe mount facing you, while the camera is facing the fields, to create a clean voice over.
Final Thoughts
The best camera setup for filming hunts depends on your style. For long, reliable recording, camcorders are hard to beat. For stealth and rugged flexibility, action cams shine. To add cinematic variety, drones are game-changers. And if you want full control and high-end quality, DSLR and mirrorless cameras are still unmatched.
But remember: no matter the gear, storytelling matters most. The right camera captures the hunt, but it’s your perspective that makes it memorable.
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