In terms of technological innovations, the Camera industry is one of the most dynamic. It feels like just every piece of tech you can buy comes with a camera these days; computers, smartphones, tablets — even cars now feature cutting-edge camera tech. This has led many people to believe that they are, in fact, professional photographers. They’re not. It’s a sad time. However, REAL ONES know that getting awesome shots consistently will require a powerful camera with highly specialized features (and some talent).
Photography is a multi-faceted field. There are different branches, like wildlife photography, portrait photography, space photography, etc., and each of these has various requirements to achieve good results. It’s these specifications that influence which cameras professionals choose for their work.
For example, a wildlife photographer might need a device that has a high framerate; but a portrait photographer might want to prioritize lighting. Likewise, when professional landscape photographers hit the market for a camera, there are different features that they look out for.
In this article, I’ll be examining each of these factors, and ultimately recommending great cameras for you to make the next award-winning landscape shot. You may be the next Ansel Adams and not even know it!
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Landscape Photography: Factors to Consider When Choosing a Camera
Landscape photography involves capturing intricate features of the natural world. Pictures of mountains, sunsets, water bodies, or a city skyline are all typical examples of landscape photography. Here are some factors that experts consider when they choose a camera for Landscape photography:
- Weather Sealing: Landscape photography is mainly done outdoors, so it is essential to have a camera that can withstand extreme weather conditions.
- Sensor Size: A larger sensor will help capture fine details and project the essence of the landscape object, as well as the view around it.
- Weight and Ergonomics: It is important for landscape photographers to have a camera that is compact and easy to carry. This is because they sometimes head into very remote locations to get the perfect setting for a landscape shot, and this often can involve a lot of trekking or climbing rocks.
5 Best Cameras for Landscape Photography
Here’s the list of our top 5 recommended cameras to help take the best landscape shots. They have cutting-edge features that amateurs and professionals alike are seeking in 2021.
Best Overall – Canon EOS R6
Best DSLR for Professionals – Nikon D850
Best Mirrorless – Sony Alpha A7 III
Best for Beginners – Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 250D
Best Budget Option – Canon Power Shot SX620 HS
Now let’s take a closer look at the key features of each of these cameras and see why they’re on our list.
Best Overall
The CANON EOS R6 has made our list because it combines the perfect balance of up-scale features and affordability. Quite literally it offers the best value for money. Other devices with similar features cost a whole lot more.
Camera Type: Mirrorless | Sensor: Full frame | Resolution: 20.1MP | Lens: Canon RF | Max burst speed: Mechanical shutter 12 frames per second, Electronic shutter 20fps
Pros
- Exceptional autofocus
- Great performance in extreme weather conditions
- Compact and portable
Cons
- Only capable of 20.1MP
Best DSLR for Professionals
Although it appears to cost an arm and a leg, the Nikon D850 is a popular choice among landscape photographers. When it comes to DSLR cameras, this one is the top of it’s class. Typically, large sensors trade frame-speed for resolution, or vice-versa, but the D850 delivers on all ends.
Camera Type: DSLR | Sensor: Full-frame | Resolution: 45.4 MP | View finder: Optical | Max burst speed: 7frames per second | Video: 4K |
Pros
- Tilting touchscreen Monitor
- High-speed
- High resolution
- 4k Videos
- Durable sturdy build
Cons
- Lens sold separately
Best Mirrorless
Mirrorless cameras are incredible pieces of equipment that every landscape photographer worth their salt should own. That being said, the Sony Alpha A7 is the best option in town. It features, among other things, a great battery life. This is something other mirrorless cameras seem to struggle with, and exactly what separates the A7 from the rest of the pack.
Camera Type: Mirrorless | Sensor size: Full-frame | Resolution: 24.2 MP | Max burst speed: 10 frames per second | Video: 4K |
Pros
- High Speed
- High resolution
- Great battery life
Cons
- Restrictive lens range
Best For Beginners
This Canon model makes our list because it’s the perfect camera for entry-level landscape photographers to cut their teeth with. It has some simple features that can help beginners hone their skills without getting too overwhelmed by the complexities common in high-end cameras. It also has an extremely competitive price tag!
Camera Type: DSLR | Sensor: APS -C | Resolution: 24.1MP | Mount: Canon EF-S Lens Mount | Viewfinder: Optical | Frame Rate: 5fps | Movies: 4K UHD
Pros
- Compact and portable build
- Great lens range
- Impressive resolution
- Great user interface for beginners
- Price friendly
Cons
- Low frame rate
Best Budget Option
For hobbyist landscape photographers who want a camera that gives them a great photos without making a huge financial commitment, the Canon Powershot SX620 is your best bet. It costs less than $300 and has some pretty cool features, too.
Camera Type: Superzoom compact | Sensor: 1/2.3in | Resolution: 20.2MP | Monitor: 3in fixed LCD Monitor | Frame speed: Max. 2.5fps | Video: 1080p Full HD
Pros
- Massive Zoom
- Slim, lightweight build
Cons
- Small sensor
Conclusion
What separates a professional from an amateur are their tools and skills. Now, get out there and start snappin’!
