Pro-Level Video Setup Under €2000? Yes, You Can. Proven.
It’s not uncommon to lack a substantial budget when starting out as a videographer. And while that might feel like a major limitation, it can actually be a valuable opportunity to learn how to optimize, choose wisely, and get the most out of your tools.
If I were a videographer just starting out today, looking to improve both my workflow and the quality of my videos while staying under €2000, here’s exactly what I’d go for.
Camera
I know. everyone wants Sony. Everyone loves Sony. Everyone uses Sony. And that totally makes sense, especially when you’re working on set with others or inside an established production pipeline. Just think of the classic FX6 + FX3 + A7 III combo, widely used in commercial and broadcast work.
But when you’re working solo, you gain freedom, budgetary and creative. And that opens the door to smarter, more efficient choices.
My recommendation? Fujifilm X-M5.
An Underrated Camera
Released in 2024, the X-M5 flew under the radar, but in my opinion, it’s one of the most overlooked gems for indie filmmakers.
Despite using an APS-C sensor (same as the X-T4 and X-S20), it packs a serious punch for video work:
- F-Log2 color profile for extended dynamic range
- 10-bit 4:2:2 internal recording
- DCI 4K support
- 6.2K OpenGate, even over HDMI
- Native Frame.io Camera to Cloud integration
Also Great Off Set
One thing that’s often overlooked: the X-M5 is truly compact. It fits easily into a bag or backpack, and with a pancake lens, even into a jacket pocket. It can be your everyday camera, the one you carry around even when you’re not shooting, ready to snap a photo on the go.
And if you want to rig it up for more serious work, SmallRig has released a dedicated cage: lightweight, sturdy, and ready for monitors, mics, handles, or a follow focus system. Small in size, but production-ready.
External Recorder
Now, there’s a limitation worth mentioning: the X-M5 records internally in compressed formats that aren’t ideal for professional post workflows, especially for those doing color grading.
This is where an external recorder becomes a game-changer.
I recommend the Atomos Ninja V or V+, which, unlike the Blackmagic Video Assist, supports 6.2K OpenGate in ProRes RAW. This is a winning combo for anyone who wants maximum image quality and post-production flexibility without breaking the bank.
And the total cost? Under €2,000, including the camera.
Post-Shooting: Your Editing & Grading Workflow
If you’re a one-person crew who also handles editing and color grading, your workflow needs to be both lightweight and robust.
- If you’re recording in ProRes 422, you’re in safe territory. It’s supported by many NLE softwares.
- But if you choose to shoot in ProRes RAW, things get a bit more specific.
Technically, Premiere Pro and Avid Media Composer do support ProRes RAW, but since they rely on subscription models, they might not be the best fit for creators looking to avoid ongoing costs.
For a more budget-conscious yet pro-grade workflow, I’d recommend Final Cut Pro, a one-time purchase that offers excellent native support for ProRes RAW footage, especially from Atomos recorders and it’s also my go-to NLE software (check out my portfolio). You can enhance your grading capabilities further with plugins like Color Finale 2.
For more advanced color work or cinematic projects, Baselight is another option (often used for high-end projects like Squid Game season 2, for example)though it comes with a steeper learning curve.
Final Thoughts
Being a videographer in 2025 means being agile, creative, and deeply aware of your needs. Cameras like the FX6 or RED certainly have their place, especially in structured productions, but they’re not the only path to professional results.
Understanding your own workflow, choosing tools based on your actual needs, and learning to master them, that’s what truly makes a difference.
Today, even with a budget under €2,000, you can build a setup capable of delivering high-quality footage, with flexibility and room to grow.
What comes next, we’ll see, but starting with a solid foundation makes all the difference.
Technology has never been more accessible.
As always, the real value is in the person behind the camera.