In this Review/Guide article, I’ll review the top 12 best cameras for car photography in 2021 for beginner and professional users.
See our Editor’s Picks if you’re in a hurry!
There’s a whole wide world of cars out there waiting to be photographed by you. And there’s a whole wide world of cameras out there waiting to help you with just that.
Let’s narrow it down to the best cameras for car photography.
There’s a lot to consider when buying a camera, so I want to make the experience easier for you.
Let’s go over details of these cameras that are pertinent and focus on what matters the most for you.
In addition, I’ll provide an actionable Buyers Guide to help you make an informed buying decision considering your budget, camera types and specific needs.
If you have questions about certain cameras or about what you should be looking for, then this article is going to be your answer guide.
I’ll make sure to break down all the choices for you so that you have a clear idea of the great field of cameras you can choose from.
So, let’s start with our Editors’ Picks then!
Absolute Best Camera for Car Photography
NIKON D850 DSLR
Used and suggested by many professionals in the car photography industry, this Nikon DSLR genius is certainly among the best if you are a professional photographer.
Refer to the review section for in-depth tech details and pros & cons!
Most Acclaimed Camera for Car Photography
CANON EOS REBEL T7 DSLR
This Canon DSLR model currently stands as one of the top-rated cameras in many camera niche websites.
Its budget-friendly pricing and high-end features make this model very lucrative.
Read the review section for in-depth tech details and pros & cons!
Best User-Friendly Camera
PANASONIC LUMIX LX100 II
Its compatibility and features make it one of the most user-friendly cameras in the industry.
See the review section for in-depth tech details and pros & cons!
Best Mirrorless Camera for Car Photography
SONY A7 III Mirrorless Camera
This is truly one of the most wished for cameras among professional photographers.
This high-quality mirrorless camera definitely ensures some classic clicks!
Read the review section for in-depth tech details and pros & cons!
Best Mirrorless Camera for Value
SONY ALPHA A6500
This is actually the cheapest mirrorless option here.
It’s not too expensive of an option and has a wide range of impressive features.
Read the review section for in-depth tech details and pros & cons!
Best DSLR Camera for Value
NIKON D7500
The D7500 from Nikon is not the cheapest option here, but it’s not nearly as expensive as some of the highest of the high-end options.
And it can hold its own with the big professional cameras to a certain degree.
A plethora of options, fast processing speeds, this option is worth the moderate price tag.
Read the review section for in-depth tech details and pros & cons!
Best All-Around Weather Camera
Fujifilm X-T3
The X-T3 from Fujifilm has excellent weather-sealing that can withstand cold temperatures and a decent amount of moisture, dust and wind.
It’s a fantastic camera in general, so you’ll love the ability it possesses in capturing the perfect shot through rain, sleet and snow.
So reliable in all forms of weather, you can call it “The Postman”.
Pair with it one of its many excellent weather-resistant lenses for supreme shots!
Read the review section for in-depth tech details and pros & cons!
Best Camera on a Budget
CANON EOS REBEL T6 DSLR
This great Canon DSLR possesses some great features at a lesser price!
See the review section for in-depth tech details and pros & cons!
Best Beginner-Friendly Camera
NIKON D3500 DSLR
If you are still an amateur or a first-time user, this Nikon DSLR, because of its easy to use features is indeed a great option!
See the review section for in-depth tech details and pros & cons!
Automotive Photography is one of the most desirable niches in the billion-dollar world of photography. There is no doubt that cars are truly one of the most alluring objects to capture.
When you acquire the right skill sets for capturing perfect photos, you need the right partner in the form of a suitable quality camera.
Especially, when your muses resemble the dashing beauties of the “Fast and Furious” series, Great Cars!
Whether you do or don’t have extensive knowledge of cameras, camera specs, terminology, etc. this article is here to help you.
We’ll break down all the specs for those of you that understand them well so it can help you to make an informed decision on your choice of camera.
For those of you that need some help interpreting it all, I’m here for that too.
If you just want to focus on the cars, and you’re comfortable enough with a camera, but you’re unsure of the specifics… then we’ll break it down in this article.
No matter who you are and what your specific intentions are… the best cameras for car photography in 2020 are here for you.
Classic stills of cars, daring photos of them in motion, artistic shots, videos that excite, videos that inform… you do whatever you want to do. I’ll help you choose a camera in order to do that.
But what is the best camera for Car Photography?
It seems to be a herculean task to answer!
My research here will ease your purchasing process by listing some of the best cameras in the market well-suited for car photography.
In this article, I will provide an in-depth review of the top cameras currently trending for car photography.
Furthermore, I will provide you with an actionable guide for buying the best cameras for car photography based on your budget, camera types and specific needs.
I have covered all the key aspects in your decision such as durability, weight, battery life, photo quality and budget.
I have also tried to find different camera types to address your needs.
The prime factor to consider before making any purchase is your budget.
You will find models here with prices starting from roughly $340 to a whopping $3,000.
You will also find a good mix of DSLR, Mirrorless and Point-and-Shoot cameras covered in the review.
So, lets zoom in to find more about the best cameras for car photography currently in the market!
I am sure that after reading this review and the Buyers Guide, you can easily decide on the camera most suitable for you!
See also: Best Lenses for Car Photography
See also: Best Video Cameras for Musicians
See also: Best Cameras for Short Films
See also: Best Cameras for Filmmaking on a Budget
See also: Best Mirrorless Cameras for Vlogging
See also: Best Cameras for Recording Guitar Videos
See also: Best Cameras for Graphic Designers
What are the Best Cameras for Car Photography in 2021?
Quick Answer:
Best Mirrorless Cameras for Car Photography
- SONY A7 III | Best Mirrorless Option
- SONY ALPHA A6500 | Best Value Mirrorless Option
- FUJIFILM X-T3 | Best All-Around Weather Option
- PANASONIC LUMIX GH5 | Best Continuous Shooting Speed
Best DSLR Cameras for Car Photography
- CANON EOS REBEL T6 | Best on a Budget
- NIKON D3500 | Best Beginner-Friendly Camera
- NIKON D850 | Absolute BEST for Car Photography (My Favorite)
- CANON EOS REBEL T7 | Most Acclaimed Camera in the Community
- NIKON D7500 | Best Value DSLR
- CANON EOS REBEL SL3 | Best Quality Rebel On The List
- CANON EOS 5D MARK IV | Best Canon DSLR
Best Point-and-Shoot Camera for Car Photography
- PANASONIC LUMIX LX100 II POINT and SHOOT Camera | Best User-Friendly Camera
Comparison Table for the Best Cameras for Car Photography
| Camera Model | View on Amazon | Camera Type | Resolution (MP) | Continuous Shooting Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SONY A7 III |
 
|
Mirrorless | 24.2 | 10 fps |
| SONY ALPHA A6500 |
 
|
Mirrorless | 24.2 | 11 fps |
| FUJIFILM X-T3 |
 
|
Mirrorless | 26.1 | 11 fps |
| PANASONIC LUMIX GH5 |
 
|
Mirrorless | 20.3 | 12 fps |
| CANON EOS REBEL T6 |
 
|
DSLR | 18 | 3 fps |
| NIKON D3500 |
 
|
DSLR | 24 | 5 fps |
| NIKON D850 |
 
|
DSLR | 45.7 | 9 fps |
| CANON EOS REBEL T7 |
 
|
DSLR | 24.1 | 3 fps |
| NIKON D7500 |
 
|
DSLR | 20.9 | 8 fps |
| CANON EOS REBEL SL3 |
 
|
DSLR | 24.1 | 5 fps |
| CANON EOS 5D MARK IV |
 
|
DSLR | 30.4 | 7 fps |
| PANASONIC LUMIX LX100 II |
 
|
Point & Shoot | 21.7 | 11 fps |
Best Cameras for Car Photography in 2021
Best Mirrorless Cameras for Car Photography
1. SONY A7 III Mirrorless Camera | Best Mirrorless Option
Here’s a fantastic mirrorless camera from Sony.
The Sony Alpha A7 III is is preferred by many professional photographers because of its renewed image sensors and high-tech processing system.
It stands as one of the leading mirrorless cameras in the market for car photography.
It costs around $1,800, which you’ll notice is on the high-end of the spectrum for this list, but it’s a direct reflection of the quality you’ll receive.
Many of the users have named this camera as a “Mirrorless Magic”! Let’s take a look and see all the magical elements that it has to offer.
Tech Specs:
The A7 comes with a cool 24.2 MP EXMOR Back Screen Illuminated Full Frame Image Sensor which will lend itself to great quality images.
Pair that with the BIONZ X image processor and you’ll be snapping some professional-looking shots of cars with ease!
Full HD, 4K, you name it, you got it.
Equipped with a 35mm sensor and having an ISO up to 51200, it helps in picking up the minute details of the cars you shoot.
You will be afforded the luxury of a 10-fps continuous shooting rate. This will come in handy if you’re shooting some moving cars.
And an improved autofocus performance for fast and reliable subject tracking.
The Fast Hybrid AF System employs a combination of 693 phase-detection points and 425 contrast-detection areas.
You may be shooting cars so fast that they’re a blur to the naked eye… but they won’t be a blur in any of your shots!
The A7 also has a 5-axis SteadyShot inside sensor-shift image stabilization system. This will prevent camera shake up to five stops, more reasons for you to see why car photographers love this option.
It’s equipped with a 3-inch 922k-dot touchscreen LCD with a tilting design, affording you easy access to multiple angles.
And weather-sealing is applied to this camera! Want some shots of cars gliding through the rainy roads…
This great Outdoor Companion could be your idea of the best camera for car photography in 2020!
Battery Life:
You will find a Sony NP-FZ100 rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack for this camera.
You can shoot more than 600 images on a single charge!
However, the number of hours this camera would last without recharging does obviously depend on the shooting style and practice of the user.
Features and Benefits:
- New BIONZ X image processing system with front end LSI, which helps the device to obtain 2-times faster data readout speed and 1.8 times faster processing capability.
- The camera has a fine 4D focus due to its 693 phase-detection AF points with 93% image coverage coupled with 425 densely positioned contrast-detection AF points.
- It is quite suitable for a continuous burst up to 10 fps. It enables silent shooting with AE/AF tracking at great resolution.
- If you want to make classy car videos, the camera has the competence to produce superior 4K HDR movies. It has a Hybrid Log-Gamma picture profile for fast HD videos.
- The product comes with a 2-year standard warranty. It is one of the finest versions in the A7 series by Sony.
Pros
- High-Resolution Camera with 4K technology
- Excellent ISO performance and a Great Battery Life
- Amazing JPEG colours with quick Autofocus
Cons
- Lacks a built-in flash which may affect picture quality
- Not a very budget-friendly option for obvious reasons
- Possesses 2 HD card slot but only one of them is high-speed UHS-II enabled
Expert Opinion:
2. SONY ALPHA A6500 | Best Value Mirrorless Option
We stay with the brand of Sony and take a look at another similar mirrorless camera.
Some obvious differences will stand out as there is a big price drop from the last camera to this one.
This is the Sony Alpha A6500, which costs about $760. So, there’s a price drop of around $1,000!
If you like the brand of Sony but were looking for something cheaper than the last model, this may be your camera!
This is a great option for those on a budget but still wanting to produce some quality shots of cars.
This camera doesn’t quite have everything the A7 had, but it’s still a solid choice.
Tech Specs:
The A6500 comes equipped with a 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and possesses up to ISO 51.200, so you’ll be getting high quality shots in a variety of different lighting conditions.
These are some impressive details packed into this fairly inexpensive camera.
And speaking of impressive details, the 4D autofocus system works with 425 phase-detect autofocus points so that you’re going to be able to focus on subjects with ease.
It’s quick and quiet, the A6500 is the Ninja Focuser.
You’re of course not quite getting the same quality as you would with the more expensive A7, but you’ll still get a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system with this in order to prevent camera shake.
And if you need to quickly get multiple shots of a car in motion, the 11fps continuous rate burst shooting is a nice perk.
This camera does HD. This camera does 4K. This camera has even added an LCD touchscreen since the last model.
Many critique that it’s somewhat on the dull side. But the addition of the LCD screen is better than no screen.
Features and Benefits:
- Addition of LCD screen since last model.
- This camera has a 4D autofocus system which works with 425 phase-detect autofocus points.
- The 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor along with other great details will wow you at such a low price
Pros
- High-Resolution Camera with 4K technology
- Budget friendly option from Sony
- Addition of LCD screen since last model
- 11 fps continuous shooting speed
Cons
- Not quite as high quality as the Sony A7
- LCD screen is a bit on the dull side
Expert Opinion:
3. FUJIFILM X-T3 | Best All-Around Weather Option
Fujifilm has a mirrorless option for you, it’s one you should really consider if you’re interested in creating some great quality shots.
The Fujifilm X-T3 is an excellent choice with a professional feel and will be able to create professional work.
This is a high-end quality camera that basically splits the difference from the last two mirrorless cameras in terms of cost.
Running you about $1,200, the X-T3 is prepared to give you some bang for your buck!
Tech Specs:
Something to fall in love with right away, would likely be the 26.1MP APS-C-format X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor.
This is a high-quality sensor with a high pixel count. If it’s sensors you want, it’s sensors you got with the X-T3.
Unfortunately, the X-T3 doesn’t have an image stabilization system built in. This would be the main downfall of this camera.
If you’re not concerned with camera shake, perhaps you don’t intend to move the camera around a lot while shooting, you may not find this to be a worry.
Maybe you plan to operate on a tripod or plan to shoot still cars for the most part.
Or maybe you’ll notice all the lenses you can pair with the Fujifilm X-T3 and notice some of those have image stabilization and will decide to go that route.
There are plenty of amazing compatible lenses you can use which will add levels of depth to your work. If you don’t mind spending a little extra, you can find plenty that incorporate image stabilization.
The HD and 4K options with this camera are complemented by the excellent 2.16m-point phase-detection autofocus system.
And the X-Processor 4 uses four CPUs for faster image processing.
11fps continuous shooting burst rate spells out lots of sharp images in a short time span!
The X-T3 features a new OLED electronic viewfinder design with 3.69m-dot resolution and a high 0.75x magnification.
In contrast to this new viewfinder, it also retains its classical looks and tactile, easy-to-use, controls. If you’ve used a Fujifilm before, they make sure to keep the experience easy for you!
Another great feature of this camera is the Sports Finder Mode.
While using this mode, the camera highlights the 16.6MP crop area in order to give you additional room outside of the frame to recognize moving subjects.
Pair that with the fact that the camera is weather-sealed for cold and inclement weather, and you may find this to be the best camera for car photography if your car photography takes place out on the cold streets, catching shots of cars swinging by!
Features and Benefits:
- 26.1MP APS-C-format X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor
- Unique Sports Finder Mode
- X-Processor 4 gives fast processing speeds
- OLED electronic viewfinder and 3.69m-dot resolution and a high 0.75x magnification
Pros
- Really great resolution available and excellent picture quality
- 11 fps continuous shooting speed
- Weather-resistant
- Variety of lenses to be used with it
- Great value for it’s excellent quality
Cons
- No image stabilization available
- Though not too expensive, also not one of the cheapest options available
Expert Opinion:
4. PANASONIC LUMIX GH5 | Best Continuous Shooting Speed
We’re now going to take a look at a great mirrorless camera from Panasonic.
Panasonic is another trusted brand that puts out quality cameras.
This particular model is the Panasonic Lumix GH5, quite a fine choice from Panasonic’s line. A high-end option that will cost about $1,300.
Right around in the same neighbourhood as the Fujifilm X-T3, this camera will show you why it’s worth the money.
Tech Specs:
The GH5 has a 20.3 Megapixel micro four thirds sensor, which isn’t necessarily the best one on this list. But it’s good enough to give you some quality images free of unwanted artifacts.
This is another option with an electric OLED viewfinder if you’re one to avoid LCD, this is a nice choice for you.
It has an 8cm vari-angle type monitor for you to catch all the shots from any angle you find yourself in.
Get close up to the cars, get artistic, get creative, shoot from all the pleasing angles your mind can dream up!
An advantage with this camera over the X-T3 is that you do get a 5-axis dual image stabilization system.
This is a top-notch stabilization system that will help you to prevent camera shake while you work. Shots, videos, keep the shake away for all of it!
Rounding out all the fantastic features of this camera, along with excellent HD you’ll get just as excellent 4K.
And perhaps the best of all, for those of you who want many shots in a short period of time… a 12-fps continuous shooting speed!
That’s efficiency! And that makes the GH5 the “Fastest Gun” on this list! There’s a lot to love with the Lumix GH5!
Features and Benefits:
- Fantastic image stabilization system
- Electric OLED viewfinder and 8cm vari-angle type monitor
- 20.3 Megapixel micro four thirds sensor
Pros
- 12 fps is the best continuous shooting speed on this list
- Excellent Image Stabilization system
- Great viewfinder and provides you with great quality images
Cons
- Though sensor is good, not the best available
- Still not too expensive, but not one of the cheapest options either
Expert Opinion:
Best DSLR Cameras for Car Photography
5. CANON EOS REBEL T6 DSLR | Best Budget Camera
Rated as a fine quality DSLR camera especially for entry-level photographers, Canon’s Rebel T6 is a great option if you are looking to replace your smartphone for a compatible camera.
Being very pocket-friendly, many find this a nice option.
It’s a sleek and compact camera so you can grab it and go at a moment’s notice if your name is suddenly called through the sound of screeching tires.
It travels well no matter where you need to head off to.
And if you have recently ventured into car photography, you can enrich your experience with this Canon DSLR model.
This is certainly one of the best cameras for car photography on a budget, as it has fine quality for quite a low cost, just about $400.
TECH SPECS:
The Rebel T6 has an 18 MP CMOS image sensor, it possesses a DIGIC 4 Plus Image Processor, which creates more realistic and lively images even under poor lighting condition.
The processor also enhances pictures by reducing the processing of high ISO shots up to 60% compared to its older versions.
There is lesser noise in the results obtained due to this technology.
With the combination of the sensor and processor, you’ll be afforded the ability to shoot at 3fps continuously if you’re photographing moving subjects.
So, you won’t be limited to shooting still cars, this camera can allow you to get some decent stills of cars in action.
And it can record in 1080p HD at 30fps. It includes a 9-point autofocus system which incorporates a single center cross-type AF point.
This is going to aid you in increased accuracy and focusing speed.
The Rebel T6 has a nice rear 3-inch 920k-dot LCD screen. You’ll be able to monitor your playback on this screen, seeing it as a bright, clear image.
And built-in Wi-Fi is a nice addition if you need it in a hurry.
An ISO 100-6400 allows good snaps in various light backdrops.
The Rebel T6 is powered by the company’s LP-E10 rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which enables around 500 shots (around a day) on a single charge.
The battery capacity is lower than the average battery life of other cameras, so that’s a bit of a downside for this DSLR.
But with it being a Canon, you’ll be afforded the full repertoire of compatible Canon lenses to better your experience!
Get any types of shots you want of the cars you capture with the variety of excellent lenses available to you.
Features and Benefits:
- Great camera for beginners at a low price. Recommendable for those looking towards shifting from mobile photography to a DSLR camera.
- It has as a better display compared to its older versions. It comes with a 3-inch LCD monitor with 920,000 dots and 170-degree angle to view.
- Its Scene Intelligent Auto Mode helps amateurs and new users to easily understand different settings.
The EOS Scene Analysis system assists in adjusting the image, brightness, colours, contrast and moving objects. - Admits continuous shooting till 3 fps. So, you can capture your car in action.
- Armed with the 9-Point AF system and AI Servo AF, which provides rapid and smart automatic focus along with better reliability.
One Centre Cross-type AF point ensures precision while capturing images in different settings.
- Also, the Optical Viewfinder will allow you to click pictures of your cars in both bright sunshine or during nights.
Pros
- Good value for money
- Reviewed as a user-friendly model in Amazon
- Wi-Fi and NFC enabled; allows convenient sharing of images across devices
- Decent Picture Quality and Ergonomics
Cons
- Out-dated Camera Resolutions when compared to counterparts
- The autofocus performance is not that satisfactory
- Slow burst shooting and obsolete movie recording features
Expert Opinion:
6. NIKON D3500 DSLR | Best Beginner-Friendly Camera
Appraised as an excellent option for fresh, new entrants in the world of photography, this is another great option for the not-so-seasoned-veteran photographer.
If you have always dreamed of starting car photography, this Nikon DSLR is definitely worth considering.
No prior experience necessary.
Experts have highly recommended this Nikon DSLR for users at a learning stage.
This is another low-cost option with quality features. Costing just about $390, this lends itself to be one of the best cameras for beginners of car photography.
TECH SPECS:
With APS-C sensors and 24.2 MP capabilities, the Nikon D3500 is an exciting camera option to get high-quality images. And that’s quite an impressive resolution for an inexpensive camera.
For great pictures during the night, the camera offers an ISO 100-25600.
Don’t be hindered by lack of sun! If the moon’s out, your D3500 can be out! Snap away!
Installed with an EXPEED 4 Engine for reducing obstructions, the Nikon D3500 gives enhance clarity even in poor lighting conditions.
The D3500 unfortunately doesn’t have 4K capabilities but it will still provide you fantastic HD images and video.
And it’s 5-fps shooting rate isn’t the best on the list, but it’s better than the comparably priced Canon Rebel T6.
You’ll be able to catch multiple shots of cars in motion up to an acceptable rate.
And the Nikon D3500 stands as a winner due to its high battery capacity.
With a single charge, you can click around 1550 shots, which is quite impressive.
The camera is powered by Nikon EN-EL 14a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack like most of the portable devices.
A sharp 3-inch 921k-dot LCD screen for you to view your work as you shoot is a plus.
And the helpful Guide Mode on this camera is excellent for beginners and those relatively new to photography.
Helping you along the way as you begin your journey, you may view this as one of the best cameras for car photography in 2020.
And don’t forget about the convenient Bluetooth connectivity and the ten different in-camera special effects you can utilize. Perfect your shots all while in the fiels, when you use the Nikon D3500!
Features and Benefits:
- Being durable, compact and lightweight, it is amazing for outdoor car shooting. The well-structured camera helps in comfortably taking pictures in various angles.
- It is quite suitable to shoot fast-moving objects like cars due to its 11 focus points spread across and its AF remains steady on the object to ensure a great snap.
- The camera allows full HD video recording with ease.
- Equipped with an optical viewfinder and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for simple sharing. The Guide mode is great for advancing your skills.
Pros
- Best camera available under $500 with impressive performance
- Efficient, quick and easy to use. Comes with Guide Mode for newbies
- 5 fps continuous shooting ability and films Full HD videos
Cons
- Its AF system is a bit obsolete and under-performing
- Has a fixed LCD monitor which lacks a touchscreen
- Does not produce 4K quality results and there is no mic input
Expert Opinion:
7. NIKON D850 DSLR | Absolute BEST for Car Photography (My Favorite)
Nikon also has a big step up in their DSLR game. It comes in the form of the Nikon D850.
With this DSLR, Nikon has established a high standard for great performance and quality.
With an excellent resolution and high-tech features, it is a good choice for all professional snappers.
The camera is a bit pricey, which is no surprise looking at its advanced technology and capabilities. It will run you somewhere in the neighbourhood of $2,990.
However, it is truly one the best cameras for car photography especially for professional photographers.
So, you’ll decide if the cost is worth it, because every penny is indeed accounted for with a magnificent detail hidden around every corner.
TECH SPECS:
As hinted at before, the Nikon D850 has an astounding resolution for its sensor.
The 45.7MP FX-Format BSI CMOS sensor is by far the best you’ll see here and will allow you to capture supreme images of any cars in any setting.
The ISO range of 64 to 25,600 enhances its performance in different scenarios.
So, with the D850 you don’t really have to worry too much about the lighting where ever it is that you’re snapping car photos, just worry about the cars.
This camera can handle all sorts of different times of day, sunny, cloudy, overcast, you name it.
It has a Back Side Illuminated system with FX-format full-frame CMOS sensors.
EXPEED 5 engine assists in minimizing noise and enhance clarity.
The Nikon D850 has an excellent battery power, which lasts for more than 1800 shots after a single charge.
It has a Nikon EN-EL 15a rechargeable battery, which provides effective high-density energy.
Features and Benefits:
- Along with its impressive resolution and excellent HD and 4K options, you can create stunning car videos with its 8K UHD movies with the help of images captured with its time interval shooting feature.
- Possesses the latest feature of continuous shooting at an incredible pace of 9 fps and a modern shutter and mirror drive mechanism which ensures picture stability.
- The Camera has a 153-point autofocus system with 99 cross-type sensors so that it can cater to fast-pace shots easily.
Don’t worry about the focus, it will catch up to you, just shoot your shots as fast as you need to. This camera allows you to go about your work as you need to. - Its 0.75 X optical viewfinder is currently one of the best in the market and offers you a clear and realistic view of your subjects.
- You will find a 3.2-inch tilting touch-screen LCD monitor for convenient usage. Tough angles are tough no more with the D850!
- A wireless remote controller can be availed to control certain features of the camera remotely. It also has Bluetooth as well as Wi-Fi connectivity.
Pros
- 4K Video technology for superior videos
- Great Auto-focus system for easy shooting
- Amazing 45.7 MP full-frame sensors for life-like images
Cons
- High price
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Connectivity not that reliable
- It has a 30 minute-video clip limit
Expert Opinion:
8. CANON EOS REBEL T7 DSLR | Most Acclaimed Camera in the Community
Let’s look at another Canon which is similar to the one reviewed earlier, this one being the Canon EOS Revel T7.
I can surely say the Canon T7 provides “quality without complexity”!
A fine option for newbies in the industry, it is easy to handle and provides great results with fine picture quality and good processing speed.
It costs about $450, so it’s on the inexpensive side. Not the cheapest option here, but perhaps for people who are a step or two above “beginner status” this may be an excellent choice for you, as it’s still not a big hit to your wallet but offers some fantastic qualities.
TECH SPECS:
The Rebel T7 has a 24.1 MP APS-C CMOS Sensor coupled with ISO 100-6400 for colourful, detailed images even in low light settings.
These are some impressive specs for this ‘step-above-entry-level DSLR’.
Its DIGIC 4+ processor speeds up the processing capability so that the camera functions smoothly.
With a single charge, you can take about 500 images.
The camera contains a Canon LP-E10 rechargeable lithium-Ion battery with low self-discharge.
Its battery life is a bit lower than the average though!
And the 3-fps of continuous shooting speed is on the lower end of capabilities featured by the cameras on this entire list, but it can still get the job done in capturing multiple shots in a short period of time.
Just don’t expect to be able to stitch together a movie with your stills.
However, you’ll love the nice 3-inch 920k-dot LCD screen you’ll get with the Rebel T7 as it offers bright and clear images for you to view as you shoot and film.
Features and Benefits:
- Built with an optical view-finder having around 95% view coverage. The view-finder stabilizes the camera and helps in obtaining better images.
- The Scene Intelligent Auto Mode provides needed accuracy and analyses the image before capturing, for proper brightness, contrast and exposure.
- For ease of sharing with other devices, the camera has the facility for NFC and Wi-Fi connectivity. Capture great snaps of your cars and share them hassle-free in no time.
- Its 9-point AF system and centre cross-type AF point ensure precision and consistency in image quality.
- For the new entrants in this niche of photography, the camera has an On-board Guide providing simple, quick explanations about various functions.
Pros
- Affordable and handy with satisfactory performance
- Optical Viewfinder with High-Resolution Sensors
- HD Video quality and good low-light captures
Cons
- No Bluetooth Connectivity
- Fixed LCD and no touch screen monitor
- Sluggish Continuous shooting feature
Expert Opinion:
9. NIKON D7500 | Best Value DSLR
We saw the Nikon D3500 which is a great little inexpensive camera with some nice features.
We saw the Nikon D850 which is a powerhouse DSLR that offers you plenty… and then some. And it comes with a high cost.
Some may love the Nikon brand but think “the D3500 is too low-end for me” and “the D850 is too high-end for me.”
For all you Goldilocks photographers out there that want something in the middle that’s “just right” meet the D7500.
The D7500 falls in between the other two Nikons in cost, running at around $900. It also displays plenty of great qualities.
Quite an improvement from the D3500 for those who need more out of their camera. Not quite as many as the D850, which may be fine for those who found the D850 had more than was needed.
TECH SPECS:
The 20.9 megapixel DX-Format CMOS sensor admittedly isn’t the best sensor on this list in terms of resolution, but it’s definitely good enough to afford you great quality images.
A quite attractive feature of the D7500 is the EXPEED 5 Image Processor which allows for fast processing speeds. This camera runs as smooth as the cars you’ll want to shoot!
And speaking of speed, want to quickly catch multiple shots in a short period of time?
This camera gives you 8-fps burst rate continuous shooting speed for just that. As the cars race by you, you can snap, snap, snap away. Capture the right moment while your subject is in motion.
Worried about focusing? The D7500 has a 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross type sensors which does an extraordinary job getting clear, crisp, focused shots for you.
Another great set of features includes the 100% coverage on the pentaprism optical viewfinder.
Add to that a 3.2 inch 922k-Dot Tilting Touchscreen LCD which is going to allow you to shoot from many different angles and capture exactly the artistic shot you want of your favorite cars.
The D7500 does HD, 4K, auto ISO, Timelapse, it has built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for your convenience.
This is your reliable best friend with a bag full of goodies!
If you’re looking for great quality that isn’t going to break the bank, then you may view the Nikon D7500 as one of the best cameras for car photography in 2020!
Features and Benefits:
- The pentaprism optical viewfinder gives you 100% coverage.
- The EXPEED 5 Image Processor allows fast processing speeds.
- The D7500 does HD, 4K, auto ISO, Timelapse, it has built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for your convenience.
Pros
- Great images produced with excellent quality
- Fast processing speed
- Great autofocus system
- Plenty of impressive features for fairly inexpensive cost
Cons
- Sensor is good, but not the best
- Great mid-level Nikon, but not the best Nikon here
Expert Opinion:
10. CANON EOS REBEL SL3 | Best Quality Rebel On The List
We saw a couple Rebels from Canon, and here’s another one. The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 will have some similarities and some differences from the previous two Rebels.
This is a great DSLR, costing about $500. You’ll notice it’s a bit more expensive than the other two, but let’s take a look at the details of this camera and find out why.
TECH SPECS:
With the Rebel SL3 you’ll get a 24.1MP APS-C-format CMOS sensor which affords a better resolution to the T6 and comparable to the T7.
This will help to create some sharp images!
The SL3 utilizes its DIGIC 8 Image Processor and the wide ISO 100-25600 sensitivity range for quick processing and great ability to handle all different lighting conditions.
As opposed to the other two Rebels which have a 3-fps continuous shooting speed, this Rebel grants you 5-fps.
Great quality HD and 4K in a small package.
And Dual Pixel CMOS Autofocus which uses a 9-point phase detection autofocus means you can worry about the composition of your shot while this little camera works to focus for you.
The SL3 is a compact camera that still manages to have a 3 inch 1.04m-dot touchscreen LCD which allows you to see your work clearly.
It features intuitive controls and a vari-angle design so that you aren’t restricted to working from just one angle.
It has built-in Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and a remote camera control from a mobile phone… for those of you that wan to get really creative.
Maybe you even want to be in your own shots with the cars! This feature can make that a possibility.
The SL3 still fits many photographer’s budgets, though more expensive than some other Canon Rebels. But it packs a lot in for the low cost. This DSLR has great value for it’s price.
Features and Benefits:
- Wi-Fi available for convenient pairing with smart phones. Additionally, the remote camera control works with mobile phones as well.
- Dual Pixel CMOS Autofocus is powerful for this small camera.
- A compact camera still affording a large enough 3 inch 1.04m-dot touchscreen LCD.
Pros
- Inexpensive option with great details
- 5 fps is a better continuous shooting speed than other two Rebels
- Great sensor and auto-detection especially for the low price
Cons
- Doesn’t have all the bells and whistles other options have
- Though 5 FPS is better than the other two Rebels, it’s on the lower end for speed on this list
Expert Opinion:
11. CANON EOS 5D MARK IV | Best Canon DSLR
Staying with Canon but taking a look at a really powerful DSLR, we introduce to you, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV.
This is the powerhouse DSLR you want from the brand Canon.
It’s a pricier camera of course, but that comes with the territory. It costs around $2,500 but as we review all the details of this DSLR, you will see why.
This is a DSLR for professionals and advanced amateurs who really want to get the most out of their car photography!
TECH SPECS:
An exquisite 30.4 MP full-frame CMOS sensor is going to provide you with some of the best quality images of all the cameras on this list.
The Mark IV allows you to have some of the most crisp shots imaginable.
With its DIGIC 6 Image Processor, it’s going to allow you to obtain those fantastic images quickly!
The Mark IV works smoothly and quickly. No waiting around with this choice. You can focus on your work and continue to work as quickly as you like.
And speaking of focusing on your work, you can do so with the Mark IV’s 61-point autofocus system with 41 cross points.
This works quickly and with great ease, your subjects will be expressed with the greatest detail with this excellent autofocus system.
Shoot and film in full HD, 4K, or utilize the 7-fps burst shooting continuous rate.
You’ll get fine quality images, even with moving subjects. And your videos will be outstanding if you really want to capture the beauty of a car in motion.
The Mark IV also has a 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen LCD display so you’ll get to work from any angle you desire.
Its intuitive controls and flexibility will make the experience all the easier for you.
And don’t forget about the built-in Wi-Fi and GPS, just to name a few other features.
Want to get some great shots of cars racing through the desert or other ‘off-the-grid’ locations? The Mark IV can handle it.
For a DSLR that can handle everything you want to throw at it, the Mark IV is one of the best cameras for car photography in 2020!
Features and Benefits:
- That 30.4 MP full-frame CMOS sensor is one of the best on this list.
- The 61-point autofocus system also has 41 cross points for extreme accuracy, coverage and quickness
- The DIGIC 6 Image Processor gives you top-of-the-line processing speeds
- 7-fps continuous shooting rate is an excellent burst rate to have for multiple shots in a short period of time.
Pros
- One of the best quality cameras available here
- Very high resolution, excellent sensor
- Fast processing speed
- 7 fps is fairly good continuous shooting speed, especially in comparison to other Canon models
Cons
- Very expensive option
- 7 fps continuous shooting speed is fairly good, but finds itself right around the middle of this entire list
Expert Opinion:
Best Point-and-Shoot Camera for Car Photography
12. PANASONIC LUMIX LX100 II | Best User-Friendly Camera
This Panasonic LUMIX model is rated among the top “point and shoot camera” in the market and one of the best cameras for car photography as well.
This is the Panasonic Lumix LX100 II and it’s packed with many impressive features.
It is very compact and user-friendly for those of you who aren’t the most camera-savvy and prefer something that doesn’t require a large carrying case or that demands so much room to be dedicated to it.
One of the most attractive features of this camera is the ability to control the shutter release and video recording on the camera through your smartphone or tablet.
It’s a moderate cost for the LX100 at about $790. Definitely not the most or the least you can spend on a camera on this list, finding itself pretty much right in the middle.
There are some great features for this camera, especially for this cost that stays under $1,000 for those of you on a budget.
Let’s take a closer look to see what appeals to you.
TECH SPECS:
The LUMIX has a total 21.7 MP resolution with highly sensitive four-thirds MOS Sensors with 17 MP.
Its LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMILUX lens ensures perfection in your pictures.
The four-thirds sensors system allows multiple aspect ratios (4:3, 3:2 and 16:9) without changing the focal length.
This is a nice detail if you quickly want to change the orientation of your photos. And you’ll be afforded crisp details in all formats.
The LX100 also possesses an ISO 100-25600 for better nightscape experience.
And 11-fps continuous shooting speed in order to capture many shots in an instant.
It allows approximately 300 images on a single charge.
The battery life is quite low compared to the DSLR cameras.
However, the battery life does depend on the practice and shooting style of the photographer.
The camera contains a Panasonic DMW-BLG10 rechargeable lithium-ion battery.
Features and Benefits:
- The product is installed with a LEICA DC Vario-Summilux lens, which has an Optical image stabilizer to reduce noise and distortion while zooming.
- You will find 4K video and photo technology used in the camera. It captures 30 frames per second in 4K Ultra HD videos and you can extract photos from them.
- The camera is easy to carry and has a new superior grip with a well-designed structure.
- Comes with a 3-inch touch display for conveniently viewing the images.
- This Panasonic camera has the remote-control feature. Through the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, you can shutter release and video shoot via your phone.
All you need is to install the Panasonic image app.
Pros
- Ability to reduce noise and distortion while zooming
- 4K video and photo technology
- Remote-control feature
Cons
- Rather low battery life
- Limited 1-year warranty
Expert Opinion:
Best Cameras for Car Photography in 2021 — Buyers Guide
Car photography is an appealing endeavour to pursue and to make the most out of it, you need the right camera set along with the right skill-set!
Deciding which camera to buy might place you in a state of utter confusion looking at some countless options available.
So, I will assist you with simplifying this complexity.
At first, let’s get to know the different types of cameras available in the market for car photography!
DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex):
DSLR Cameras have two primary parts- the body and the lens.
The lens is detachable and can be altered when needed. They have a high-resolution and ensure amazing picture quality.
Mirrorless Cameras:
Similar to a DSLR camera, they have changeable lenses. However, the mirrorless cameras are more compact and don’t have a mirror mounted over the main body.
But most mirrorless cameras still cannot compete with DSLR’s performance standards.
Still, Full Frame Mirrorless cameras are an exception with excellent picture quality and features.
Point-and-Shoot Cameras :
The point and shoot cameras are smaller and easier to use.
They have fixed lenses and compact bodies with tiny sensors.
The picture quality is not as exceptional as the DSLR cameras.
Frequently Asked Questions!
Here, I have tried to put a brief solution to some of the most requested queries and doubts the users post online for making the correct buying decision!
Some of these questions may match questions you have, which is perfect.
Some of these questions may be ones you hadn’t thought of asking but will shed some important light for you.
No matter what questions you have coming into this article, taking a look at the answers provided here will help you to decide on the best camera for car photography in 2020.
Which Camera brand manufactures the best digital cameras?
This is a very subjective answer. You can’t outrightly name a single brand name as the BEST.
Currently, Nikon, Canon, Sony, Olympus, and Panasonic all have managed to create a brand image for themselves.
Each of the brands has its pros and cons.
From the price to the purpose, you need to keep various factors in mind.
What are the major factors to consider while selecting the camera for your car photography project?
The foremost factors are your budget and nature of the project.
If you are pursuing car photography professionally on behalf of some car companies or websites, you need high-resolution advanced cameras like high-end DSLRs such as Nikon D850 for enhanced image quality.
If you are pursuing photography as an entrant or amateur, you can go for budget DSLRs (such as Canon T6) and Point-and-Shoot cameras (such as PANASONIC LUMIX LX100 II) without much thinking.
There are affordable DSLR cameras available as well. You just need to make a proper analysis considering your budget and photography purpose.
Does just having more Megapixels means better performance?
From a low 16 MP to high 48 MP, the camera resolution affects the picture quality but it isn’t the only factor, which influence your snaps.
The APS-C sensors and field control as well as the camera type are some of the factors which play a key role.
Even if you have a Point-and-shoot camera, which has a higher resolution than a DSLR, it doesn’t ensure that the picture obtained would be better than that of the DSLR.
What is the relevance of Wi-Fi connectivity and GPS features?
Today in the Internet age, most camera companies provide Wi-Fi features in their devices to allow easy sharing and transfer of pictures from your camera.
GPS is not a common feature in many cameras. Generally, if you are not travelling to new places for your photography projects, having a GPS feature is not of much relevance.
If you are travelling a lot, then it could be a big benefit.
What if I do plan on travelling a lot and want to utilize GPS?
One camera that has GPS built-in is the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV.
Not only is the GPS fantastic, but the rest of the camera is as well.
It’s a bit pricey, but if you’re doing professional work, and you need to travel and want the very best, the Mark IV can help with that!
What are the cheapest cameras I can get for car photography in 2021?
If you want something that works great but doesn’t hurt your wallet as much as the rest of the options, there are some excellent options.
The Canon EOS Rebel T6 and the Nikon D3500 are both just around the same price… about $400.
This may vary depending on where and when you buy one or the other. But they are both great bets.
They are both DSLR options. If you wanted a Mirrorless camera, the Sony Alpha A6500 us the cheapest on this list at about $760 and has a lot of reasons to be loved.
What is the best camera for car photography if I live somewhere with a lot of inclement weather?
Almost all the If you’re going to be photographing cars and there’s always a good chance of rain or other inclement weather… for one, be careful driving, and two, you’ll want a camera that has weather-sealing.
Not only does the Fujifilm X-T3 have weather-sealing, it has excellent weather sealing.
You can equip many different lenses, plenty of which feature weather-resistant elements as well. This would be a great choice.
What’s the best value camera for car photography in 2021?
The most bang for your buck! That’s what we often strive towards.
The Sony Alpha A6500 is a great value mirrorless option, only costing $760 and having a plethora of amazing details and qualities.
If you’re thinking of a DSLR option, then you might want to try thinking of the Nikon D7500.
It only costs about $900 and can hold it’s own with the most professional and expensive cameras with it’ fast processing speeds, large LCD and bevy of features and excellent specs.
What’s the overall best camera for car photography in 2021?
Here, I would have to say the Nikon D850.
It’s got everything you could want. It’s the professional camera for the professional photographer and it will create pure excellence!
What is the need for manual controls in your camera?
Almost all the photographers have an inclination to get a camera with the feature of manual controls.
It really makes it convenient for the camera guy to adjust the settings like focus, exposure, brightness, angle and shutter speed as per need to get the quality results with each shot.
Best Cameras for Car Photography (2021) — Conclusions
I hope you now have a better understanding about how to make a good decision about the digital cameras best suited for your car photography initiative.
So, here come my final recommendations:
- If you have a higher budget, you should go for Sony A7 III or the Nikon D850 cameras as they have excellent resolution and image quality.
- For entry-level photographers, I suggest the Canon Rebel T series cameras to kick-start their learning experience with very user-friendly devices.
- If you are thinking of shifting from mobile photography, try a Point and Shoot camera like Panasonic LUMIX for better snaps.
So, what are you waiting for?
Grab hold of your choice of camera soon!
Those stunning cars of your dreams are waiting to be clicked!
