51 Netflix Approved Cameras to Film Netflix Original Content (7 Brands)

As a filmmaker, the gear you use matters, especially when you want to create projects for streaming giants like Netflix. Netflix provides an in-depth breakdown and list of Netflix approved cameras for you to choose from. In this article, I’ll talk about why there are approved cameras, the technical specs for Netflix approved cameras (2023), and a complete list of Netflix approved cameras. I hope this article lets you know precisely what cameras you can use to get your projects on Netflix.

Let’s dive into each of the brands and breakdown which specific model of each brand is approved by Netflix.

Note: This list of Netflix approved cameras is specifically for Netflix Original content. 

Why Are There Netflix Approved Cameras

As a viewer, you may notice that many of Netflix’s original series have a similar look which is no accident. To maintain quality control of their original content, Netflix has specifications for their list of approved cameras. Netflix works in collaboration with filmmakers, camera producers, creatives, and recognized experts in filmmaking fields to determine which cameras provide the best workflows. 

To help show more about Netflix’s camera selection process, check out this video from Netflix.

Technical Specs

To be an approved camera for Netflix, cameras must have specific capture specifications. Camera resolution must be a true 4K UHD sensor (3840 photosite capture width (spherical). Codec can be lightly compressed or Uncompressed RAW or Intraframe Based Codec with 4:2:2 Chroma-subsampling or Greater.

Bit depth

Bit depth must be 10 bit or greater. Data rate must be a minimum 240Mbps at 24FPS (frames per second). Color space must be Scene-referred Color Space (S.Gamut3, ALEXA Wide Gamut, REDWideGamut, etc.). Transfer function needs to be a Scene-referred Transfer Function (Slog3, Log C, Log3G10, VLog, etc.). Finally, for timecode, the system can jam to an external source with timecode written as metadata.

It’s important to remember that even cameras that meet these specs might not be on the Netflix-approved camera list. These are the minimum requirements and specifications for a camera to be on the Netflix-approved camera list. Other camera specifications are considered, including workflow compatibility, dynamic range, stability, form factor, etc.

ARRI

Out of all the cameras on this list, the ARRI Alexa LF is one of the most popular cameras in filmmaking today. The ARRI Alexa LF records in ARRI RAW, native 4.5k and has a full-frame sensor. Projects filmed on the ARRI Alexa LF include Stranger Things 4, Emily in Paris, The Umbrella Academy, You, Dune, and The Eternals.

Canon

My first camera was a Canon 5DMIII, so Canon has a huge role in my filmmaking journey. One of my favorite films I’ve created with the Canon 5D MKIII is “Cerebral.” Cerebral went on to win Best Actress at the 2015 48 Hour Film Project in Baltimore, Md. Canon’s sensor helped us capture the low light, gritty look we were going for. 

On the Netflix-approved camera list, I’ve loved working with the Canon C300 MkIII. With a Super 35mm Dual Gain Output (DGO) Sensor and 16 stops of dynamic range, the Canon C300MkIII records in XF-AVC 4K and Cinema RAW Light. The Canon C300MkIII boasts an impressive 4K 120p and 2K CROP 180p. For post-production, the Canon C300MKIII supports Canon Log 2 & 3 for a higher dynamic range. Perfect for independent filmmakers, the Canon C300.

Panasonic

With native 4K Super 35mm MOS sensor with 14 stops of dynamic range, the Panasonic VariCam LT is a lightweight powerhouse. Capable of recording multiple formats, including 4K, UHD, 2K, HD, and HD/2K ProRes, for under $12,000, the Panasonic VariCam LT is a wise investment for filmmakers.

RED

Approved for anamorphic capture, the RED RANGER GEMINI 5K S35 uses a 5K sensor with REDCODE RAW and ProRes. With 16.5 stops of dynamic range, the RED RANGER GEMINI 5K S35 can capture rates up to 75 fps in 5120 x 3000 5K, 120 fps in the 2.4:1 5K aspect ratio, 120 fps in 4K full format, and up to 300 fps in 2K 2:4:1 aspect ratio with full frame cinema lenses. Coupled with RED’s Image Processing Pipeline (IPP2) production workflow and DSMC2 ecosystem on set control, the RED RANGER GEMINI 5K S35 is an excellent choice for filmmakers.

Panavision

The full frame DXL2 features the 8K RED Monstro sensor, 16 stops of dynamic range, and 16-bit color to create quality and rich imagery. The DXL2 is the first camera to feature wireless timecode through the Ambient Communication Network (ACN). Projects filmed on the Panavision DXL2 include Tick Tick Boom, Midsommar, Hustlers, and The Harder They Fall. As Panavision doesn’t sell any of its cameras, the only option is to rent through their rental program, rumored to start at $1,000 a day.

Sony

With a 6K sensor similar to the Sony Venice, the Sony Venice 2 records on an ASX card with internal recording formats, including ProRes 422 and 4444. Featuring 8 stops of internal ND and 15 stops of dynamic range, the Sony Venice 2 is a popular choice for television and movies. Projects filmed on the Venice include Creed, Matilda, Barbarian, Coda, Severance, Ozark Season 4, and Avatar: The Way of the Water. Starting at $49,000, you’d be better off renting the Sony Venice 2 6K.

Blackmagic

With a Super 35mm 4.6K HDR image sensor, the Blackmagic URSA Mini PRO 4.6K G2 is a stunning camera to capture your Netflix project. With built-in ND filters and 15 stops of dynamic range, the Blackmagic URSA Mini PRO 4.6K G2 offers Blackmagic RAW and ProRes recording on either dual CFast cards or dual SD cards. While the EF mount comes standard, you can change out to a PL, B4, and F lens mount.

What About Secondary Cameras?

As for secondary cameras, any cameras besides the primary camera (underwater, drone, crash, POV, etc.) must be approved by Netflix. Only 10% of your project’s total run time can be filmed with non-Netflix approved cameras.

More about Netflix: Who Owns Netflix? Official Breakdown of Stakeholders

Common FAQs About Filmmaking with Netflix

How do I get Netflix approval for filmmaking

To pitch an idea, game, script, screenplay, or production to Netflix, you must go through a licensed agent, producer, attorney, manager, or industry executive who already has a relationship with the company.

What is the Cheapest Netflix Approved Camera?

While the camera prices fluctuate based on accessories, the Sony FX3 Full Frame Cinema Line Camera is the cheapest Netflix approved camera.

Full List of All Netflix Approved Cameras (2023)

Which Netflix Approved Camera Would You Use?

While individual camera specifications may seem daunting, Netflix seeks to maintain quality amongst its original content. Collaborating with filmmakers and industry leaders, Netflix has created a Netflix approved camera list. While different stories call for different looks to capture the right essence of the film, filmmakers have dozens of options to choose from.

I hope you learned about a few of the cameras on the Netflix approved camera list. Let me know in the comments your favorite cameras and Netflix series.