If the best camera for photography the most expensive one on the market?Typically, cheaper models suitable for photos cost somewhere between $400 and $900, while high-end models for true pros will cost you between $1500 and $5000+.
Whether you need the best camera for photography as a hobby, for a professional portfolio or your family photo album, the following cameras for taking pictures are the models you can buy no matter what photography genre you’re interested in.
Sony Alpha 7R III Mirrorless Camera with 42.4MP Sony Store
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Full Frame Digital SLR Canon Store
Fujifilm X-T3 Mirrorless Digital Camera (Body Only) – Black Fujifilm Store
Fujifilm GFX 50S 51.4MP Mirrorless Medium Format Camera (Body Only) Fujifilm Store
Canon EOS 250D (Rebel SL3) DSLR Camera Canon Store
Nikon Z7 FX-Format Mirrorless Camera Body Nikon Store
At first glance, choosing the best camera for photography may seem like a daunting task due to the tons of technical terms. While the choice depends on your needs, below you will find some characteristics that are universal. They are important to consider under all circumstances and purposes of use.
DSLR, mirrorless, medium format, compact, superzoom, film and many other types of cameras that exist are designed for different purposes. The choice of camera depends on the area where the photographer will use it. DSLR and mirrorless cameras are considered to be the most universal, as they have both low-cost and professional models.
So, they allow you to change optics and have good characteristics. Compact cameras are most often used on trips. They are easily placed in the pocket of your jacket and do not weigh very much. Moreover, some models have excellent shooting quality. Medium format cameras are used by professionals, as these cameras allow you to take pictures with high resolution.
On the other hand, they are quite pricey.
Pros or amateurs who lack the capacity of a camera matrix are moving to film cameras if medium format cameras are too expensive for them. Superzoom cameras are All-in-One options, because they have satisfying characteristics. An integrated lens with a large spread of focal lengths is both a plus and a minus of such cameras.
Larger sensors ensure better sensitivity of a camera. Plus, you get images with less noise. Moreover, large matrices allow you to ‘blur the background’. By the way, you can achieve a similar effect by editing pictures in Lightroom. Keep in mind that lenses are also important in this case.
Typically, you can find 3 main lenses when shopping for the best camera for photography and video:
- 1 inch (or smaller) – usually is used in inexpensive compact cameras
- APS-C – highly-developed mirrorless, compact, and DSLRs contain this type
- Full Frame – used in nifty compacts, mirrorless and DSLRs
Advanced APS-C sensors or full-frame cameras are popular among professional shooters. Of course, a full-frame camera is pretty expensive. Plus, you have to spend quite a lot on the lens. However, if you are not on a budget, this will be the best choice.
Ergonomics
When choosing the best camera for photography, try to hold it in your hands to understand whether it feels convenient. Large weight and awkward grip may cause a lot of problems. A camera must be portable enough that you can carry it everywhere. We also recommend considering how easy-to-find main functions are. Everything should be extremely simple and straightforward.
Even if you have already used touchscreens, you may encounter some inconvenience if a screen doesn’t respond well to your touch or its menus and controls are confusing. You should take a closer look at several models and test them as all of the above-mentioned are rather subjective.
Looking for a large number of megapixels isn’t worth it if the camera has a small matrix. You will need 18-20 MP for convenient photo shooting. If you want to print out pictures in large formats, then look at the models from 30MP.
Speed and Performance
Choose cameras with a speed of 5 frames per second (fps) or higher. However, stay sane and don’t cross the line. For most cases, 10-20 fps is too much and is a waste of money. Consider your goals in the first place.
F.A.Q.
- • Mirrorless vs DSLR – which is better?
Mirrorless models are compact, speedy, lightweight, and deliver high-quality video. The downside is a poor choice of lenses and accessories for these cameras. Better optical viewfinders, a greater selection of lenses, and longer battery life are arguments in favor of DSLRs.
- • What’s more important: a camera or a lens?
In general, a camera is less important than the lenses you pair with it. If you attach a high-end lens to an entry-level DSLR, you’ll still get great shots. However, a bad lens won’t bring the desired result, even when combined with an expensive premium camera.
- • Are mirrorless cameras suitable for professional needs?
Yes. Mirrorless models are very popular among many professional shooters including travel and landscape photographers.
- • Is buying a DSLR camera a good decision?
DSLR cameras are suitable for both professional and amateur needs. They are a great investment if you plan on starting a photography business. However, you should consider other options if photographing is only a hobby.
