12 Best Cameras for Food Photography in 2022 – Reviews, FAQS & Guide
If you are a beginner at food photography, then it might seem quite challenging at the start. Moreover, finding an ideal camera for food photography is also difficult.
Therefore, before heading to the best camera picks for food photography, a buying guide below will introduce you to some of the points that should be considered before making any purchase.
12 Best Cameras for Food Photography
| Sony a7 III Camera | 24-megapixel full-frame Sensor.BIONZ X processor.Mirrorless form factor. |
| Nikon z5 Camera | 24.3-megapixel full-frame Sensor.EXPEED 6 processor.Mirrorless and compact form factor. |
| Fujifilm X-T1 | 16.30-megapixel crop factor sensor.EXR Processor II.Mirrorless and compact form factor. |
| Canon EOS 6D Mark II | 20.2-megapixel full-frame Sensor.DIGIC 5+ Image Processor.Mirrorless and compact form factor. |
| Nikon D3100 Camera | 14.2-megapixel full-frame Sensor.Optical Processor.Mirrorless form factor. |
| Sony Alpha a6400 Camera | 24.2-megapixel crop sensor.BIONZ X Image Processor.Mirrorless and compact form factor. |
| Nikon D810 Camera | 36.3-megapixel full-frame Sensor.EXCEED 4 Image Processor. Mirrorless and compact form factor. |
| Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Camera | 30.4-megapixel full-frame Sensor.DIGIC 6 Image Processor.Mirrorless and compact form factor. |
| Olympus E-M10 III Camera | 16-megapixel full-frame Sensor.TruePic VIII Image Processor.Mirrorless and Compact form factor. |
| Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II Camera | 20.1-megapixel full-frame Sensor.DIGIC 7 Image Processor.Mirrorless and Compact form factor |
| Canon EOS Rebel T7i Camera | 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor.DIGIC 7 Image Processor.Mirror and Compact form factor. |
| Canon EOS Rebel T7 Camera | 24.1-megapixel APS-C sensor DSLR camera. |
Let’s have a comprehensive study of the cameras as mentioned above.
1.Sony a7 III Camera
Features
- It features the latest HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma)4 picture profile, capable of recording 4K videos. It also supports HDR workflow.
- Its Sensor is a new version of ‘24.2-MP5 Exmor R CMOS Sensor.’
- In addition, it features a “BIONZ X Image’ processing engine.
- With this camera, you can capture 10fps with its auto-focus (AF)/ auto-exposure (AE) tracking2.
- It allows you to capture up to 40 uncompressed or 89 compressed RAW and 177 JPEG images with a single ‘Burst19’ shot.
- Its 693 point-focal-plane phase-detection auto-focus (AF) supports A-mount lenses.
- It comes with an adapter that allows the attachment of multiple lenses with the camera.
Specifications
| Model | ILCE7M3K/B |
| Brand | Sony |
| Screen Size | 3 inches |
| Sensor Size | Full-frame Sensor (35mm) |
| Sensor Resolution | 24.2 megapixels |
| Optical Zoom | 2X |
| Video Recording Resolution | 2160p |
| Viewfinder Type | Electronic |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Image Coverage | 93% |
| ISO Level | Up to 51200. Expandable (50-2048007). |
| Weight | 1.44 lbs |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 5 x 3.88 x 3 inches |
Product Description
For food photography, you will not need advanced digital cameras; modern cameras with advanced basic features will be better. Sony a7 III is perfect for food photography, thanks to its impressive specifications.
The ISO levels are great. It allows you to capture and record 4K videos. In addition, it has a full-frame sensor, which means that this camera works perfectly even in low light.
Its advanced Eye auto-focus with executive AF-C mode is best for capturing food portraiture. Moreover, it also has a 5-axis high stabilization unit.
Thus, with this camera, you don’t need to slow down your capturing speed. The stabilization unit will tackle all shutters and tilting, providing an exceptional image quality.
This camera allows shooting in absolute silence with its ‘Shooting18’ feature. With this, you can capture up to 10fps in total silence.
2.Nikon Z5 Camera
Features
- It features a 24.3 MP sensor that captures over 50% more image area than the typical sensors. As a result, it produces detailed, sharp images and records 4K videos.
- It has a shutter speed as fast as 1/8000 of a second.
- It has a 5-axis VR image stabilization system.
- It comes with dual UHS-II SD card slots.
- It has the latest 3.96M O-LED viewfinder.
- This camera has a “Hybrid AF System” that has 273 detect points that cover the frame up to 90%.
- It has an ultra-fast ‘EXPEED 6’ processing engine.
- It features a special ‘Silent Mode.’
Specifications
| Model | Z 5 |
| Brand | Nikon |
| Screen Size | 3.2” |
| Sensor Size | Full-frame (35mm) |
| Sensor Resolution | 24.3 megapixels |
| Optical Zoom | 4-6.3X |
| Video Recording Resolution | 2160p |
| Viewfinder Type | O-LED viewfinder |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Image Coverage | 90% |
| ISO Level | Auto (100-51200). Expands up to 102400 |
| Weight | 1.49 lbs |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 9.1 x 9.1 x 9.1 inches |
Product Description
If Sony a7 III seems too expensive, then check out this camera. The camera’s impressive ‘EXCEED 6’ engine processor is the mystery behind its remarkable image and video quality.
Its VR stabilization system allows capturing images at a fast shutter speed without any hassle. It can be activated in up to 5 stops of stabilization in 5 different directions, i.e., roll, yaw, pitch, X, and Y.
However, without this VR technology, the camera can still stabilize on 3 different axes. Moreover, the O-LED viewfinder is a legacy from DSLR cameras. Its impressive clear functioning improves manual focusing capacity.
It comes with an F-Mount compatible 24-50mm lens which can be mounted via the optional ‘Mount FTZ Adaptor’ that comes in the kit with this camera.
3.Fujifilm X-T1 Camera
Features
- It has an X Trans CMOS II sensor.
- The processing engine is “EXR II.”
- It can behave as a weather-resistant camera when used with a weather-resistant Fusion lens.
- It has a 2.36 million pixel O-LED viewfinder.
- The LCD is tiltable.
- It features a hot shoe flash.
- It has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth compatibility.
- It can be remotely controlled via a smartphone
Specifications
| Model | Fujifilm X-T1 |
| Brand | FUJIFILM |
| Screen Size | 3 inches |
| Sensor Size | Crop factor |
| Sensor Resolution | 16.3 megapixels |
| Optical Zoom | 0.77X |
| Video Recording Resolution | 4896 x 3264 |
| Viewfinder Type | O-LED viewfinder |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Image Coverage | 100% |
| ISO Level | 200-6400. Extended (100-51200) |
| Weight | 2 lbs |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 1.85 x 5.08 x 3.54 inches |
Product Description
This is the first camera in this list that satisfies the needs of people seeking a camera with a crop sensor. Having a crop sensor makes it cheaper than the formerly mentioned products.
But being economical does not mean that this product has nothing good to offer. On the contrary, it has some of the most remarkable features that will make you buy this perfect camera kit.
First, its viewfinder is exceptional and offers 100% image coverage. Record 1080/30fps HD videos with this camera. It allows continuous shooting at the rate of 8fps.
It becomes dust-proof, water-proof, and freeze-proof up to 10-14 degrees Celsius when used with an appropriate weather-resistant Fusion lens. One of the prominent drawbacks is its poor magnification and low ISO levels.
But for this drawback, the camera is not to be blamed; it includes a crop sensor that ultimately reduces its magnifying and shuttering capacity. However, most crop sensor users are generally aware of this fact.
4.Canon EOS 6D Mark II
Features
- This monitor has a full-frame CMOS sensor.
- It comes with a built-in DIGIC 5+ Image Processor.
- It comes with a sensitive GPS.
- It also has built-in Wi-Fi support.
- Thanks to its GPS and Wi-Fi support system, this camera can easily be connected to different devices such as PCs, laptops, and mobiles.
- The images and recorded videos can wirelessly be transmitted via the Canon Image Gateway.
- The frame rate of 4.5 frames per second allows excellent continuous shooting features.
- This camera features an 11-point AF system.
Specifications
| Model | 8035B002 |
| Brand | Canon |
| Screen Size | 3 inches |
| Sensor Size | Full frame (36mm) |
| Sensor Resolution | 20.2 megapixels |
| Optical Zoom | 0.71X |
| Video Recording Resolution | 1080p |
| Viewfinder Type | Electronic |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Image Coverage | 98% |
| ISO Level | 100-25600. Expandable (50-102400) |
| Weight | 1.7 lbs |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 5.71 x 2.8 x 4.3 inches |
Product Description
This camera is best for those photographers who seek excellent connectivity and transferring capabilities for their camera.
Canon has introduced a remote EOS app that allows the camera to connect with multiple devices at a time. Moreover, as described above, it also has GPS and Wi-Fi support and a Canon Image Gateway.
Its amazing image processing engine and an 11-point AF system allow the camera to capture even the tiniest details of your subject.
This camera is one of the most economical full-frame cameras from the entire Canon range.
5.Nikon D3100 Camera
Features
- It has a DX-format CMOS sensor.
- It features six automatic exposure scene modes.
- It features an 11-point auto-focus system.
- This camera features intuitive and easy-to-use controls for flexible functioning.
- Its 3-inch LCD has a ‘one-touch continuous live shooting’ feature.
Specifications
| Model | CRTNKD3100BODYKRB |
| Brand | Nikon |
| Screen size | 3 inches |
| Sensor Size | Full-frame |
| Sensor Resolution | 14.2 megapixels |
| Optical Zoom | 0.8X |
| Video Recording Resolution | 1080p |
| Viewfinder Type | Electronic |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Image Coverage | 95% |
| ISO Level | 100-3200 Expandable (up to 28000) |
| Weight | 2.8 lbs |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 4.9 x 2.9 x 3.8 inches |
Product Description
Nikon camera is the most affordable option in the entire Nikon range. It comes with typical features, including an 11-point auto-focus system.
One feature that makes it prominent than others is its six automatic exposure scene modes, which are listed below.
- Portrait Mode
- Landscape Mode.
- Child Mode
- Night Mode.
- Close-up Mode.
- Sports Mode.
It also includes picture modes, which can be applied after taking the image to enhance its quality.
The only disadvantage of this camera is that its Sensor has a resolution of only 14.2 megapixels. But reviewing its price, this camera is best for beginners.
6.Sony Alpha a6400 Camera
Features
- It features an ‘APS-C Exmor CMOS’ Sensor.
- It has a ‘BIONZ X Image Processor.’
- It has a 425 phase and 425 contrast rate, which gives a professional photography look.
- This camera comes with a 50mm lens.
- This camera resembles a DSLR.
- With this camera, an 11 fps continuous live shooting can be enjoyed.
- This camera can be used to record time-lapse, slow motion, and fast motion videos.
- It has built-in Wi-Fi support.
Specifications
| Model | ILCE-6400/B |
| Brand | Sony |
| Screen Size | 3 inches |
| Sensor Size | Crop Factor |
| Sensor Resolution | 24.2 megapixels |
| Optical Zoom | 1.07X |
| Video Recording Resolution | 1080p |
| Viewfinder Type | Electronic |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Image Coverage | 100% |
| ISO Level | 100-32000. Expandable (up to 1028000) |
| Weight | 0.89 lbs |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 4.5 x 5.6 x 6.0 inches |
Product Description
Although imSo y a6400 is an APS-C camera, it resembles and inherits many of its features from Sony’s full-frame line-up. Within the price of a crop sensor, you get to have the benefits of a full-frame camera.
It allows continuous live shooting at 11 fps, which can be extended up to 8 fps for silent shooting.
With Wi-Fi compatibility, this camera allows easier transfer of files from the camera to other devices or vice versa. Moreover, it also has a selfie LCD, which is quite rare for cameras.
Another outstanding feature of this camera is that it provides a 100% image coverage facility. Thus, you will be able to capture your desirable details.
However, this camera has some serious disadvantages. It has no IBIS, and its menu system is not easy or flexible to use. Furthermore, the battery life of this camera is very short.
7.Nikon D810 Camera
Features
- It features an FX-format full-frame CMOS sensor.
- It has an EXCEED 4 processor, which works 30 percent faster than the previous versions.
- The shutter speed is 1/80000 to 30 seconds.
- It features a 51-point auto-focus (AF) system.
- This camera has a ‘3D Color Matrix Metering III’ featuring a 91000 pixels RGB sensor.
- It has 1080p cinematic video recording capabilities.
- It has a premium quality weather-resistant body.
- It produces very little noise.
- The camera is energy efficient and consumes very low power, which indicates longer battery life.
- It produces D-SLR quality images.
Specifications
| Model | Nikon D810 |
| Brand | Nikon |
| Screen Size | 3.2 inches |
| Sensor Size | Full frame (35mm) |
| Sensor Resolution | 36.3 megapixels |
| Optical Zoom | 46X |
| Video Recording Resolution | 1080p |
| Viewfinder Type | Optical |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Image Coverage | 100% |
| ISO Level | Auto, 64-12800. Expandable (32-51200) |
| Weight | 2.16 lbs |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 5.75 x 3.23 x 4.84 inches |
Product Description
If you seek a camera with ultimate sensor resolution, then the Nikon D810 camera is ideal. With its 36.3-megapixel sensor resolution and 51-point AF system, this camera allows you to capture the best of the subject.
Although it does not come with an optical low-pass filter, this camera still produces detailed and sharp images.
It has an optical viewfinder which provides 100% image coverage. This camera produces stunning trail images and allows unlimited continuous live shooting.
For appropriate lighting, this camera also comes with a built-in flash, which is a prominent convenience for photographers. Moreover, it has a 12-bit uncompressed RAW size that stores multiple professional files at a time.
This camera undoubtedly has some of the most stunning specifications. But obviously, like any other high-end device, it is pretty expensive and is tagged above $2000.
8.Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Camera
Features
- It has a CMOS sensor.
- It feaures a DIGIC 6 Image processor.
- It has an excellent 61 point auto-focus (AF) system.
- You can record 4K videos with this camera at 24 fps to 30 fps.
- It has a 7.0 fps continuous live shooting feature.
- It has a touch-screen LCD.
- It comes with built-in NFS and Wi-Fi support.
- It is a high-speed camera, thanks to its extensive AF system.
- It has a dust-proof and water-proof body frame.
Specifications
| Model | 1483C002 EOS |
| Brand | Canon |
| Screen Size | 3.2 inches |
| Sensor Size | Full-frame (35mm) |
| Sensor Resolution | 30.4 megapixels |
| Viewfinder Zoom | 0.71X |
| Video Recording Resolution | 2160p |
| Viewfinder Type | Optical |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Image Coverage | 100% |
| ISO Level | 100-32000. Expandable (50-102400) |
| Weight | 1.7 lbs |
| Dimension (L x W x H) | 7.62 x 14.99 x 11.68 inches |
Product Description
This is another camera on this list known for its ultra-fast capturing system, thanks to its 30.4MP CMOS sensor and 61-point AF system. However, you can record 4K videos easily with this camera at 24 fps to 30 fps.
The body of the Nikon EOS, 5D Mark IV camera, is all-black and durable. The body frame is also water-proof and dust-proof. In addition, it has built-in Bluetooth, Wi-Fi,
and NFS support, which makes the transferring of files easier. This camera can also be connected to multiple devices via the brand’s “Canon Camera Connect App.” It also has a touchable LCD monitor screen.
9.Olympus E-M10 III Camera
Features
- It features a CMOS sensor.
- It has a “TruePic VIII Image Processor.”
- With this camera, you can record 4K videos.
- It has 5-axis image stabilization for smooth 4K video recording.
- It records high-speed videos at a rate of 120 frames per second.
- It has a lightweight structure.
- It has a tilting touch-screen LCD monitor.
- This camera has 15 built-in ‘Art Filters.’
Specifications
| Model | Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III |
| Brand | Olympus |
| Screen Size | 3 inches |
| Sensor Size | Full-frame (35mm) |
| Sensor Resolution | 16 megapixels |
| Optical Zoom | 1X |
| Video Recording Resolution | 2160p |
| Viewfinder Type | Electronic |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Image Coverage | 100% |
| ISO Level | 100-25600. Expandable (50-102400) |
| Weight | 0.90 lbs |
| Dimension (L x W x H) | 4.8 x 2 x 3.3 inches |
Product Description
Despite its modest price, this camera provides an incredibly strong set of choices in an appealing and small design. In addition, the visual quality is excellent.
With such features, you will undoubtedly produce excellent food photography. It also features a touch screen, an excellent viewfinder, and a single-shot AF system.
In addition, it could be wirelessly connected to your phone or tablet, allowing you to transfer photos in a couple of seconds.
It includes a 121-point contrast-detect AF system and can shoot continuously at 4.8 frames per second. It can also record 4K/UHD video at 24p and 30p and a high-speed 120 frames per second mode at 720p.
10.Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II Camera
Features
- It has a BSI CMOS sensor.
- It features “DIGIC 7 Image Processor.”
- Its “Picture Style” feature lets you choose between eight different presets, allowing you to fine-tune the way your photo looks.
- It comes with built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS support.
- It has a 31-point auto-focus (AF) system.
- It produces JPEG images of excellent quality.
- However, RAW files can also be captured and stored on this camera.
- It has five different drive modes.
Specifications
| Model | Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II |
| Brand | Canon |
| Screen Size | 3 inches |
| Sensor Size | Full-frame |
| Sensor Resolution | 20.1 megapixels |
| Optical Zoom | 3X |
| Video Recording Resolution | 1080p |
| Viewfinder Type | TFT |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Image Coverage | Approx. 100% |
| ISO Level | Auto, 125-12800. |
| Weight | 0.4 lbs |
| Dimension (L x W x H) | 1.2 x 3.9 x 2.3 inches |
Product Description
The PowerShot, G9 X Mark II camera, has a sleek appearance and high-performance features, including the DIGIC 7 Image Processor. It makes it simple to record the subject in a stylistically attractive way.
At high ISO, this camera provides excellent food shots with minimal noise. As a result, there’s no need to be concerned about dark photos. However, smartphone users would undoubtedly like the large size of a touch screen.
This camera will be a wonderful discovery for food photographers searching for high-quality photos and unique features that smartphones provide.
11.Canon EOS Rebel T7i Camera
Features
- It has an APS-C CMOS sensor.
- It features “DIGIC 7 Image Processor.”
- It has built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS support.
- It has a 45-point auto-focus (AF) system.
- It has a “Vari-angle Touch” LCD screen.
Specifications
| Model | Canon EOS Rebel T7i |
| Brand | Canon |
| Screen Size | 3 inches |
| Sensor Size | APS-C CMOS |
| Sensor Resolution | 24.20 megapixels |
| Optical Zoom | 3.05X |
| Video Recording Resolution | 1080p |
| Viewfinder Type | Optical |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Image Coverage | Approx. 100% |
| ISO Level | 100-25600. Expandable (up to 51200) |
| Weight | 9 lbs |
| Dimension (L x W x H) | 5.2 x 3.9 x 3 inches |
Product Description
With a 24.2-megapixel sensor, 45 autofocus points, and six frames per second shooting, the Canon T7i / 800D has all the features you’d expect from an entry-level DSLR.
However, in reality, labeling the T7i and its competitors “entry-level” is a bit harsh, given that all of these cameras offer remarkable features and picture quality and are all fairly sophisticated in general.
The T7i does, however, offer certain lower-end and mid-tier characteristics, like its button arrangement and focusing mechanism, that fall short of Canon’s best DSLRs.
However, in several respects, it is comparable to these more sophisticated cameras.
12.Canon EOS T7 Rebel DSLR Camera
Features
- It features an APS-C sensor.
- It has a ‘DIGIC 4+ Image Processor.’
- It has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth compatibility.
- It has three different “Drive Modes,” namely, self-timer, single and continuous.
- It has a 0.43X auxiliary wide-angle lens.
- This camera comes with two SanDisk 32GB SDHC memory cards.
Specifications
| Model | Canon T7 |
| Brand | Canon |
| Screen Size | 3 inches |
| Sensor Size | APS-C DSLR |
| Sensor Resolution | 24.1 megapixels |
| Optical Zoom | 3X |
| Video Recording Resolution | 1080p |
| Viewfinder Type | Optical |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Image Coverage | 95% |
| ISO Level | 100-12800 |
| Weight | 9.33 lbs |
| Dimension (L x W x H) | 5.09 x 3.99 x 3.06 inches |
Product Description
The EOS Rebel T7 camera is ideal for photographers who want to take their photography to the next level.
It combines amazing capabilities with simple operation for high-quality photos you’ll be happy to share. Utilize the EOS Rebel T7’s big 24.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor to achieve your photographic potential.
Because this camera has a crop ratio of 1.6, the zoom lens will produce images that seem like they were taken with a 28mm-88mm lens. As a result, you’d be zooming all the way into the 55mm setting for food photography.
Buying Guide
- Sensor’s Size
The primary thing to think about before opting for a camera is the size of its Sensor. There are versions of sensors based on their size, i.e., a crop sensor and a full-frame sensor.
The cropped sensor captures sharp pictures with enhanced focal length, but the only problem is that the camera and lenses will behave differently.
Moreover, crop sensors aren’t the best choice when it comes to capturing pictures in dim light. Full-frame sensors are much more efficient in this regard.
But if you seek something affordable in sensors, then crop sensors are the best. This is because they provide satisfactory image quality and are pretty economical.
- Megapixels
For professional food bloggers, considering the number of megapixels in a camera is very important. Higher the number of megapixels, the better the quality of the printed image will be.
- File Size
Another point to decide is whether you want to work on JPEG files or RAW files. JPEG is a basic form and is much suitable for beginners. It is easy to operate and has a smaller file size as compared to RAW.
However, RAW is bigger in file size and is primarily for professionals. It has a better color gamut and has a broad dynamic range.
Furthermore, RAW files can endure heavy editing and won’t lose any data though RAW-supported cameras are pricier.
- Focus Points
Professional photographers rely on manual focusing most of the time. But it is what they are professional at, and not every beginner can do that. Thus most rely on ‘autofocusing.’
Thus, while seeking an ideal camera for food photography, try to opt for the one that has a greater number of focus points. Because the greater their number is, the better you will be able to capture even the tiniest details.
- ISO Level
ISO levels of a camera are important to consider while buying a camera because not all the time would you be relying on a tripod to capture images. In addition, there can be discrete noise levels in your surroundings.
Especially as a food blogger, if you are recording videos in a food market, tackling background noise is utterly important.
And this is where the ISO level steps in. It reduces all the shaking and noise levels and improves the quality of images and videos.
- Lenses
Ensuring a good quality of lenses is undoubtedly very important while purchasing a camera. Also, make sure that the camera does not have fixed lenses; otherwise, you will not be able to make a lens upgrade to your camera.
Verdict
If your budget permits, invest in a full-frame camera if you wish to photograph food professionally. If you can’t afford a new device, acquire a used one from a trustworthy vendor.