The Best Hybrid Photo and Video Camera for 2022

Today's cameras allow even beginners to start their careers in either photography or videography. Usually, photographers will prefer cameras that are more "photo-centric", and videographers have learned that there are certain camera brands that are more "video-centric". These cameras tend to excel at photo or video, but not both. There may be times however that you will need a true hybrid cameras that can perform well for both photo and video. Here we'll take a look at some options from Fujifilm, Sony, Canon, and Panasonic.


Fujifilm X-H2S


The best hybrid camera to come out in 2022 is the Fujifilm X-H2S. The X-H2S is the first Fujifilm camera to have their latest 26MP X-Trans back side illuminated sensor. This BSI sensor allows for superior processing times, evident in the camera's 15 frames-per-second mechanical shooting, and up to 40 frames-per-second electronic shutter. For video makers, the XH2S is able to record an impressive at an impressive 6.2K resolution with its full Open Gate recording. Below are the XH2S specs:

  • XH2s  26 MP APS-C) X-Trans CMOS 5 sensor
  • SD Card and CFExpress Type B Card
  • 15 fps Mechanical Shutter, up to 1/8000 sec
  • 6.2K: 1/8000sec. to 1/24 sec.
  • DCI4K/4K: 1/8000sec. to 1/4 sec.
  • Apple ProRes, All Intra and Long GOP recording
  • EVF: 0.5 inch OLED Color Viewfinder, Approx. 5.76 million dots, with 0.8x magnification
  • 7.0 stops in-body image stabilization, with optional digital image stabilization

With the impressive specs comes a formidable price tag for the Fujifilm X-H2S. If the price is out of your budget, there's the Fujifilm X-T4 which is more photo centric, but still has IBIS. An even more affordable option is the Fujifilm X-S10.


Sony Alpha 7 IV


The Sony Alpha 7 IV (Sony A7IV) continues on the legacy of the Alpha 7 line of (relatively) affordable full-frame cameras with great output. The A7IV sports a 33MP full-frame back-illuminated CMOS sensor, for fantastic image quality, and can record 4K 60p in 10-bit 4:2:2. Aside from these specs, Sony's E-Mount is open to Sigma and Tamron lenses, making the Sony system very attractive for both photo-centric as well as cinema lenses. Below are the Sony Alpha 7 IV's specs:
  • 33.0‑MP full-frame back-illuminated CMOS image sensor
  • AF with Real time eye auto focus for humans, animals, and birds
  • 4K 60p, 10-bit 4:2:2 recording capability
  • 5-axis optical image stabilization (up to 5.5 stops)
  • Low noise at high ISO with BIONZ XR processor
  • Smart AI-based Real-time Tracking
  • 10-frames-per-second continuous shooting 
  • Breathing Compensation for lenses
You can get Sony Alpha 7 IV (Sony A7IV) with the updated  24-70mm F2.8 GM lens, although this can be a very pricey option. The previous version in the line, the Sony A7III, doesn't have the full video capabilities as this iteration, but it's a good start for those looking into the full-frame camera market. For an even compact, blogger-friendly option, there is the Sony A7C.


Canon R7

Along with the Fujifilm X-H2S above, the Canon R7 was announced this year, and is Canon's entry in the RF mount for the APS-C market. Along with the Canon R10, the R7 has the smaller sensor for those with a smaller budget, but the R7 can be considered as the better option for event and wildlife shooters. The R7 has a 32MP sensor, newly developed for this camera body, and can shoot 15fps mechanical, and up to 30fps high speed electronic shutter. Below are the Canon R7's specs:

  • 32.5MP APS-C CMOS sensor
  • 15fps mechanical, and 30fps electronic shutter
  • 4K 60p (7K oversampled) and Canon Log 3
  • Intelligent Tracking and Recognition, with People, Animal and Vehicle Priority
  • 2.36-million-dot EVF
  • Dual card slot (UHS-II)
  • Corner-to-Corner AF Coverage
  • Optional Directional Stereo Microphone

The Canon R7 comes with the new RF-S18-150mm lens, and is compatible with all of Canon's RF lenses. The current disadvantage for these cameras is the lack of other RF lenses, especially for the APS-C RF cameras. If you prefer a full frame option, there's the Canon R6, and the more capable Canon R5.


Panasonic Lumix GH6


The Panasonic Lumix GH lineup has always been a favorite for video content creators, but the Lumix GH6 takes up to another level by being a very capable photography camera as well. This micro four third camera can take 20MP images, but with its handheld shot feature, you can create 100MP high resolution images. It can also take 5.7K 60p video, making a strong contender for the best hybrid photo and video camera for this year. Below are the Lumix GH6 specs:
  • 25.2MP Micro Four Thirds (M43) sensor
  • 100MP Hand-held High Resolution Shot
  • 4:2:2 10-bit C4k 60p video
  • 5.7K 10-bit 60p ProRes Codec video capture
  • Unlimited video recording time
  • 7.5-stops Dual In-body Image Stabilization
  • CFexpress Card and SD Memory Card slots
  • Front and Rear Tally Lamps
The Panasonic Lumix GH6 can be purchased as a kit with any of the Panasonic Leica (PanaLeica) lenses, although the price encroaches on the full-frame territory. If you prefer full-frame cameras, there is the Panasonic Lumix S1, or the more affordable Lumix S5.


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