A camera with an articulating LCD, also known as a vari-angle LCD or flip screen, is a great addition. The screen is mounted to a swivel that allows you to rotate the LCD and flip it away from the camera.
Flip screens are useful for taking pictures at unusual angles. In the past, it was difficult to frame a bug’s eye view at ground level by lowering your camera and trying to look through the optical viewfinder. It was often a matter of guesswork.
You can set up the camera at ground level, and then angle the LCD up to you, framing the scene.
A flip screen also allows you to shoot from above by rotating the screen downward. Swivel screens are also useful for street photographers, as they allow them to shoot discreetly. Flip screens make it easier to shoot from the hip and give you greater control. Hold the camera up against your body, and swivel the screen upwards to frame the shot. Then shoot discretely.
The popularity of flip-screen cameras has soared despite all the advantages they offer for still photography. Vlogging, like self-portraiture requires you to be on the opposite side of the lens. Before flip screens, this meant a lot more trial and error and careful setup.
Swivel LCD touchscreens allow you to place your camera directly in front of yourself, frame the shot and then tap on the screen to start recording or taking a photo. A camera with an articulated screen is the best choice if you want to upload videos to YouTube. This guide will round up the top cameras with flip-screens.
- Best cameras for vlogging
Check out our buying guides for more information on the different types of cameras and features that are available.