There is much debate between photographers and industry experts on which are the best cameras for landscape photography.
It could be argued that the right one is simply the camera you have on you at the moment you see an amazing shot! With advances in technology, the quality of images that can be captured even just with a basic camera may well surprise you.
However, there remains big differences between entry level and professional grade equipment.
Choosing the best camera will largely be dependent on how you plan to use your camera, your budget and what you intend to do with the imagery your camera captures in terms of final output and the required size of any prints.
Best compact camera
The range of compact cameras available for landscape photographers changes regularly, as manufacturers frequently update models.
Take a look at our blog for more information on specific cameras we have tested and recommend.
To future proof your purchase, there are three key points that you may wish to consider – particularly in this segment of the camera market.
Firstly, the quality of the lens is where most of your money should be spent.
Several manufacturers link to lens specialist brands for some of their models.
Also, consider focal length and the size of the sensor; which will affect the magnification effect of the lens your camera comes with, which directly affects the best cameras for landscape photography in this sector.
Second should be to look for a camera that offers a full range of manual settings.
Whilst there may be a temptation to simply switch on ‘Landscape Mode’ you will learn nothing and in turn, lose control of changing key settings to optimise the best image for the conditions you are shooting in.
Thirdly, not all compact cameras have a tripod mount. Whilst it’s unlikely that you will immediately need this for this type of camera format, it nonetheless provides a useful option and helps you get used to framing a shot with a tripod, which can be a useful exercise prior to investing in a more expensive camera.
Digital SLR’s – best cameras for landscape photography?
Digital SLR’s – best cameras for landscape photography?The traditional upgrade from a basic camera is a DSLR.
This camera format is a digital version of the original film based single lens reflex (SLR). In place of film for an image to be exposed onto is a sensor which captures a digital file.
These cameras offer a flexible shooting format with a wide range of interchangeable lens options and ability to mount additional equipment onto the camera body, such as battery grips and powerful flash units.
The price you will pay for a DSLR can vary enormously, from a budget entry level camera of around £500 ($700), anywhere up to £7,000 ($10,000) and beyond. So why such a vast difference when both essentially do the same thing?
As with most equipment in photography, the required budget to meet your needs will largely be set by you and what you intend to do with the camera. Equally the functions a camera offers, quality of sensor, weather proofing and processing technology all have a direct bearing on prices.
DSLR user groups
Generally, DSLR cameras fall into three price brackets with different user groups, this being:
- Amateur entry level
- High quality enthusiasts
- Professional
As you might expect, prices rise in line with the user bracket a camera falls into, with several models overlapping between different user groups.
For the landscape photographer in pursuit of the highest quality image, key criteria include compatibility with a high-quality set of lenses, low levels of digital noise produced during the file capture process and large enough file sizes that can be cropped into without significant loss of quality in post processing.
Are mirrorless systems worthy of further reflection?
Mirrorless camera systems have risen in popularity over recent years and offer an appealing balance which some may argue makes them the best cameras for landscape photography.
Like DSLR cameras they offer the ability to use interchangeable lens systems, but enjoy smaller proportions like a compact system and are lighter to travel with consequently.
This new generation of cameras have been built exclusively as a result of digital photography. Traditional camera manufacturers like Olympus have introduced models alongside electronics brands such as Panasonic and Sony.
Cameras such as the Sony a7RII have grown a significant fan base over recent years and the imagery that can be captured in the right hands will give any of the top DSLR’s a run for their money.
If you are looking to make the switch from a compact system, this is a camera format that rightfully demands further investigation before making your purchase.