4 Old Movie Cameras That Last Until Today

With the announcements of so many new cinema cameras, we often forget the cameras that paved the way for digital cinematography.

When you revisit some of those catalytic cameras from the past, you'll find that they can still produce beautiful cinematic images that live up to today's standards. The best part is that you can now get those early cameras for a fraction of their original price.

Let's take a look at some of these cameras and, more importantly, the images they can create.

Sony F35

Originally priced at $250,000, the Sony F35 is a camera that has held up in terms of image quality and “cinematic look”. In all honesty, this camera was almost ahead of its time. It was created to match movies, which is why it only had white balance settings of 3200 and 5600.

You can now easily snag this camera on sites like eBay for around $2,500 to $5,000. Many filmmakers still hold this camera in high regard, and to this day it will capture footage you will be proud of.

ARRI Alexa Classic

The Alexa produces a beautiful image that many of us try to emulate. Although there have been several Alexa cameras over the years, most still revolve around the same sensor that was available in the very first Alexa - the ALEV III sensor.

Although this camera once cost over $70,000 (just for the bodysuit), now you can get a complete package for less than $10,000.

If you have projects that don't require true 4K delivery and want the Alexa look, then snagging an Alexa Classic may be the perfect option that won't break the bank. (Moreover,

Sky Fall

was shot with this camera.)

Sony F3

I remember how exciting it was when the Sony F3 came out. It was a true cinema camera with S-Log for around $16,000. It was one of the first truly cinematic digital cameras to come (at this price point) with a log color profile. However, the camera was quickly forgotten when Canon entered the game with the C300 soon after, and then Sony introduced the FS700. Now you can get this camera for an absolute bargain - sometimes under $1,000 for a full set.

The Sony F3 was used to shoot the 2012 film

Security not guaranteed

, with

Jake Johnson

and

Aubrey Plaza

.

RED One MX< /p>

The RED One MX was a revolutionary camera from a company that helped shape modern digital cinema. Along with the Alexa, these two cameras are the ones that really ushered us into the digital age. You can now find a complete package for this camera for well under $2,000.

The RED One MX camera was used to shoot the 2011 film

Contagion

, with

Gwyneth Paltrow

and

Matt Damon

.

Sometimes capturing that cinematic image doesn't require the latest advances in camera technology. With a look back, we can find many great cameras that created the films that inspired us, all for a fraction of the price.

Cover image via

sony

.

Want to learn more about cameras? Check out these articles.

Production Tip: How to Calculate Your Camera Power

Is the GoPro 7 Black the best action camera on the market?

Four Reasons Why You Should Use (and Love) Your Camera's Stock Lens

Stabilizing Your Camera Movement: Gimbals vs Steadicams

Add flavor to your images by implementing the science of color