In an age of 4K cameras and ultra-sharp digital footage, it might sound strange to suggest digging out a camcorder from the attic—or picking one up for £30 on eBay. But mini DV cameras are making a serious comeback in the world of filmmaking, and for good reason.
Editors Keys videographer, Lewis, recently picked up a Canon MV901 DV camera for just £20 online—and we were genuinely surprised at how useful and creatively inspiring it turned out to be.
The Return of the Tape
What makes these outdated-looking cameras so appealing in 2025? It’s all about vibe. DV cameras deliver a raw, nostalgic aesthetic that’s impossible to fake with filters or post-production tricks. The softer colours, natural motion blur, and tape grain instantly bring a warm, analogue energy to your shots. Whether you're filming a music video, documentary, or even content for a brand, throwing in a few DV shots can completely transform the feel.
This trend is cropping up everywhere—from fashion campaigns to indie films—and it’s part of a larger move away from overly polished digital content. Creators and audiences alike are craving something more real, more personal, and more emotional.
Easy, Affordable & Effective
You don’t need fancy lenses or a full rig to make DV footage work for you. These cameras are plug-and-play: turn them on, hit record, and go. You can pick up a decent model (like the Canon MV91) for around £30–£50, with tapes available for just £10. You’ll likely find what you need at your local analogue shop or online.
Use them to supplement your high-end footage. Get your polished shots with a Sony A7S III or similar, then splice in a few DV clips to add character. Clients love it—we’ve tested it on fashion shoots and seen the results firsthand.
DV for Daily Life
Beyond client work, DV cameras are great for personal projects too. Bring one along to a gig, on holiday, or to a festival. The footage feels like a home video from the early 2000s—in the best possible way. It’s like filming with a time machine, capturing the moment with a sense of warmth and memory.
Editing DV Footage
If you’re wondering how to get DV footage into your editing software, keep an eye on our YouTube channel—we’ve got a video on that coming soon. And if you’re editing DV in Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro, don’t forget to check out our dedicated editing keyboards to speed up your workflow. We’ve also created a few custom in-house looks if you want your digital footage to mimic that vintage DV feel.
So if you’re thinking about switching things up in your next video project, consider grabbing a mini DV camera. It's budget-friendly, creatively liberating, and just might be the edge your work needs. Be sure to check out Lewis's full video on our Youtube channel!
