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11 Best Cameras for Car Photography in 2023

Article By: Faheem Hussain Published On: June 1, 2023 , Last updated on : November 25, 2023 | Reviewed by : Editorial Board
11 Best Cameras for Car Photography in 2023

Car photography is a popular genre that has garnered a lot of hype as of late, with car enthusiasts and photographers alike capturing stunning images of their favorite vehicles. However, capturing the perfect shot requires a high-quality camera that can handle the fast-paced nature of car photography. With so many choices currently on the web, it can be a tedious process to choose the best camera for car photography that suits all needs. Fear not, as we cover the very best cameras to get you on the road.

Check out how to pick the best camera for car photography | Buying Guide

When it comes to the best car photography camera, the right one can make all the difference. But with so many cameras available on the market now, it can be challenging to know what to look for. In this buying guide, we’ll outline some key points to bear in mind when selecting the best camera for car photography.

Sensor size

A relatively larger sensor can capture more light, resulting in sharper and more detailed images. Full-frame cameras are often the preferred choice for car photography due to their ability to capture more detail in low-light situations.

Autofocus system

Car photography often involves capturing moving vehicles, so a camera with both a fast and accurate autofocus system is essential. Usually, the best camera for car photography comes with multiple autofocus points and a fast burst mode to ensure you can capture the action.

Lens compatibility

The right lens is crucial for car photography. Look for a camera with a wide selection of lenses to choose from, including prime and zoom lenses that can capture the car from different angles. The best camera lens for car photography isn’t always included with the camera and is mostly sold separately.

DSLR and mirrorless camera

The choice between a DSLR and a mirrorless camera will solely depend on your individual needs and preferences. Both have their pros plus cons, but generally, they produce high-quality images that are suitable for various types of photography, including car photography.

Resolution

The ability to capture minute details of the car, such as the texture of the paint, subtle design components, and minor features, is made possible by higher-resolution cameras. This is very helpful for taking close-up pictures of vehicles or showing their attractiveness.

ISO range

The ISO range determines how well a camera can handle low-light situations. A higher ISO range allows for better performance in low light but can also lead to increased image noise. The best camera for car photography usually has a decent ISO range.

Weather sealing

Car photography often takes place outdoors, so weather sealing is important to protect your camera from the elements. Additionally, the best cameras for car photography should come with weather-sealed body and lens options to ensure your gear can withstand rain, dust, and other harsh conditions.


Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is an excellent camera for car photography. It has a high-resolution sensor that can capture highly detailed images with accurate colors and a wide dynamic range, making it one of the best cameras for car photography.
Nikon D850 FX

Nikon D850 FX

The Nikon D850 FX offers exceptional image quality, a fast autofocus system, and versatile shooting options, which make it a top pick for professional photographers and auto enthusiasts. With a brand like Nikon, you’re sure to get some noteworthy shots.
Sony Alpha a6400

Sony Alpha a6400

The Sony Alpha a6400 is a versatile and capable camera that offers a wide range of features that are well-suited for car photography, whether indoors or outdoors. With a brand like Sony, you know you’re getting something with high quality and longevity.
Fujifilm X-T4

Fujifilm X-T4

The Fujifilm X-T4 is a top-of-the-line mirrorless camera that offers excellent image quality, fast performance, and advanced features. For those on the prowl for the best camera for vehicle photography, its excellent IBIS function will be a treat.
Sony a7R IV

Sony a7R IV

The Sony a7R IV is a highly capable and versatile camera. It is well-suited for professional photographers and serious enthusiasts who demand the highest image quality and performance. Its weather-sealed body and fast autofocus make it a joy to use.
Nikon Z 7II FX

Nikon Z 7II FX

The Nikon Z 7II FX is a dependable camera for taking car pictures and offers outstanding image quality, advanced features, and exceptional build quality. It is a great choice for professional car photo buffs who demand the best performance from their equipment.
Canon PowerShot ELPH 360

Canon PowerShot ELPH 360

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 can be a good option for casual or beginner photographers who are looking for a compact and easy-to-use camera to capture photos of cars. It offers a decent 20.2-megapixel sensor, a 12x optical zoom lens, and a variety of shooting modes.
Panasonic LUMIX GH5

Panasonic LUMIX GH5

This Panasonic camera has excellent image and video quality, image stabilization, fast autofocus, and a rugged build making it a top choice for professional automotive photographers and videographers alike.
Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Canon EOS 6D Mark II

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II is a viable choice for anyone looking to capture high-quality images of cars. Its 26.2-megapixel sensor delivers excellent image quality with sharp details and vibrant colors and offers good low-light performance.
Sony Alpha A6600

Sony Alpha A6600

The Sony Alpha A6600 is undoubtedly one of the best cameras for car photography that delivers high-quality images and fast and accurate autofocus. Its compact and lightweight design ensures a reliable and versatile mirrorless camera that can handle a versatile range of shooting situations.
OLYMPUS OM-D E-M1 Mark III

OLYMPUS OM-D E-M1 Mark III

This is a mirrorless camera that features a 20.4-megapixel Live MOS sensor, 5-axis in-body image stabilization, and an advanced autofocus system. The camera’s fast burst mode of up to 18 frames per second with continuous autofocus and exposure tracking makes it ideal for capturing multiple shots of fast-moving cars.

The best camera for car photography | Top 11

In this review, we will dig deep into the best cameras for car photography, highlighting features and benefits to help you make the right decision. Regardless of if you’re a professional photographer or just a novice looking to capture the perfect shot, these cameras will help you take your car photography to the next level.

Below are the best cameras for car photography in 2023

  1. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
  2. Nikon D850 FX
  3. Sony Alpha a6400
  4. Fujifilm X-T4
  5. Sony a7R IV
  6. Nikon Z 7II FX
  7. Canon PowerShot ELPH 360
  8. Panasonic LUMIX GH5
  9. Canon EOS 6D Mark II
  10. Sony Alpha A6600
  11. OLYMPUS OM-D E-M1 Mark III

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

1.Canon EOS 5D Mark IVType: DSLR
Resolution:
30.4 MP

This Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a premium full-frame camera released in 2016 as a successor to the 5D Mark III, a popular choice for many. This is the best Canon camera for car photography, and it’s still the go-to choice among many professional automotive photographers. The 5D Mark IV features a 30.4-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor that can capture highly detailed images with accurate colors and a wide dynamic range.

The DSLR camera has an ISO range of 100-32000, which is expandable up to 50-102400, allowing it to perform well in low-light situations. It also features Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system, which provides fast and accurate autofocus. This results in making it easy to capture sharp and detailed images of fast-moving sports cars.

Pros:

  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF system
  • Noiseless low light shooting
  • 7 fps continuous shooting speed
  • Built-in Wi-Fi and GPS

Cons:

  • Lacks built-in flash

Overall, this Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a highly capable camera that is well-suited for car photography. Its fast autofocus system, high-resolution sensor, and robust design make it a favorite among professional photographers. However, it is also relatively expensive and may not be necessary for beginners or hobbyists who are just starting out in car photography. All-in-all, this is the best camera for car photography in our books.

Quantitative Measurement

Frame rate: 9.5/10
Shutter speed: 9/10
Battery life: 9/10
Design: 9/10

Nikon D850 FX

2.Nikon D850 FXType: DSLR
Resolution:
45.7 MP

The Nikon D850 FX is a popular full-frame DSLR camera that is a go-to choice among professional photographers, including many car enthusiasts. With its 45.7-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, this camera delivers stunning image quality with sharp details, accurate colors, and impressive dynamic range. Whether you’re shooting cars on the street or in a studio, this DSLR is capable of capturing every detail of the car’s design with ease.

The autofocus system of the D850 is top-class, thus making this one of the best cameras for car photography. Its 153-point AF system with 99 cross-type sensors ensures fast and accurate focusing, even in low-light conditions. This makes it easy to track fast-moving cars and capture the perfect shot. The camera’s 7 fps continuous shooting speed can be increased to 9 fps with the optional battery grip, which makes it possible to capture multiple images of a car in motion.

Pros:

  • Superior image quality
  • Fast auto-focus
  • Time-lapse mode

Cons:

  • Confusing menu controls

The Nikon D850 FX DSLR camera offers excellent image quality, fast autofocus, and a high-resolution sensor that can capture the fine details of cars. The camera’s high burst rate, wide ISO range, and fast shutter speed also make it suitable for capturing moving cars in action, making it a no-brainer.

Quantitative Measurement

Frame rate: 9.5/10
Shutter speed: 9/10
Battery life: 9/10
Design: 8.5/10

Sony Alpha a6400

3.Sony Alpha a6400Type: Mirrorless
Resolution:
24.2 MP

The Sony Alpha a6400 is a high-performance mirrorless camera with a wide range of advanced features and capabilities. It’s a compact, lightweight camera that is easy to carry around, making it a worthy option for outdoor car meets. Its magnesium alloy body is sturdy and durable, while its dust and moisture-resistant construction makes it well-suited for use in a variety of conditions.

The a6400 boasts an impressive 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor that captures stunning images with excellent detail and color accuracy. The camera’s AF system is fast and accurate, with Sony’s “Real-time Tracking” technology. This is done using AI-based algorithms to accurately track moving subjects and maintain focus even when the subject moves out of the frame briefly. This makes it a top choice for the best camera for car photography that is well-suited for capturing fast-moving subjects like cars.

Pros:

  • 4D focus
  • Real-time tracking AF
  • Well priced

Cons:

  • Battery life can see improvement

The Sony Alpha a6400 is a highly capable mirrorless camera that offers a wide range of advanced features and capabilities. Its fast autofocus system, high ISO range, and 11 fps continuous shooting speed make it well-suited for capturing fast-moving subjects like cars. Consequently, its high-quality yet lightweight design makes it easy to carry around for outdoor car films, which makes this the best camera for shooting car videos.

Quantitative Measurement

Frame rate: 9/10
Shutter speed: 8.5/10
Battery life: 8/10
Design: 9/10

Fujifilm X-T4

4.Fujifilm X-T4Type: Mirrorless
Resolution:
26.1 MP

The Fujifilm X-T4 is a premium mirrorless camera body that is designed for both professional photographers and auto enthusiasts. For starters, its 26.1-megapixel APS-C sensor and X-Trans CMOS – 4 image sensor delivers high-quality images with excellent detail and color accuracy, which is important for capturing the details of a car even in low light. The camera also has a hybrid autofocus system that combines phase detection and contrast detection for improved accuracy and speed.

Moreover, the camera’s hybrid autofocus system is also fast and on-point, making it easier to capture shots of moving vehicles. The Fujifilm X-T4’s in-body image stabilization (IBIS) can be especially useful for car photography, as it allows you to capture sharper images even when shooting handheld. Finally, the camera’s flip-out touchscreen LCD display can also be helpful for taking photos at odd angles, such as low to the ground for close-up shots of wheels or undercarriage.

Pros:

  • In-body image stabilization (IBIS)
  • Flip-out touchscreen LCD
  • Excellent battery life

Cons:

  • Pricey compared to the competition

The X-T4’s video capabilities can be useful for car photography as well. It can record 4K/60fps video with 10-bit color depth, which can be great for capturing dynamic shots of cars in motion. Overall, the Fujifilm X-T4 is a highly capable camera that can be a good choice for car photography.

Quantitative Measurement

Frame rate: 8/10
Shutter speed: 8.5/10
Battery life: 9/10
Design: 8/10

Sony a7R IV

5.Sony a7R IVType: Mirrorless
Resolution:
61 MP

The Sony a7R IV can be an excellent camera for car photography. Its high-resolution sensor captures a tremendous amount of detail, making it ideal for capturing the intricate details of cars, from their paintwork to their design features. The advanced autofocus system, including its many autofocus points, makes it easy to track and capture fast-moving cars.

It features a 61MP back-illuminated full-frame sensor, which delivers exceptional image quality with sharp details and accurate colors. The camera’s advanced autofocus system includes 567 phase-detection autofocus points and 425 contrast-detection autofocus points, providing fast and accurate focus performance.

Additionally, the camera’s weather-resistant design means it can handle shooting in various outdoor environments, making it a great option for car photography in challenging conditions. The camera’s high-resolution electronic viewfinder and tiltable LCD screen can also help photographers frame their shots effectively, whether they’re shooting from low angles or high up.

Pros:

  • High MP camera
  • Weather-resistant construction
  • Advanced Auto Focus

Cons:

  • Very expensive

Additional features of this Sony camera include a five-axis in-body image stabilization system, dual UHS-II SD card slots, and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for remote control and easy image sharing. Overall, the Sony a7R IV can be an excellent camera for car photography due to its high image quality, advanced autofocus system, and rugged build quality. However, the price is the steepest on this list.

Quantitative Measurement

Frame rate: 9/10
Shutter speed: 8.5/10
Battery life: 9/10
Design: 8/10

Nikon Z 7II FX

6.Nikon Z 7II FXType: Mirrorless
Resolution:
45.7 MP

The Nikon Z 7II FX is a full-frame mirrorless camera that offers high resolution and advanced features for professional photographers. It features a 45.7-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, which delivers outstanding image quality with excellent detail and color accuracy. The camera also features a powerful image processing engine that can handle high-speed continuous shooting and high-resolution video recording.

Nikon Z 7II sports a fast and accurate hybrid autofocus system that combines both phase detection and contrast detection autofocus. This allows the camera to track subjects like automobiles quickly and accurately, making it ideal for action and wildlife photography. The camera is built to a high standard, with a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body that is rugged and durable.

Pros:

  • Full-frame CMOS sensor
  • Superfast and accurate hybrid autofocus system
  • Weather-sealed magnesium alloy body

Cons:

  • Limited lens selections

Additionally, this camera features a comfortable grip and intuitive controls that make it easy to use in a variety of shooting situations. Overall, the Nikon Z 7II FX is a dependable camera that can handle a wide range of photography genres, including car photography.

Quantitative Measurement

Frame rate: 8.5/10
Shutter speed: 8/10
Battery life: 8/10
Design: 8/10

Canon PowerShot ELPH 360

8.Canon PowerShot ELPH 360Type: Digital
Resolution:
20.2 MP

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 is a compact point-and-shoot camera that offers a variety of features and capabilities for a relatively affordable price. While this is not the ideal camera for advanced car shoots, it is still the best budget camera for car photography, especially if you are looking to capture high-quality, detailed images.

The camera’s 12x optical zoom lens can be useful for getting closer to a car, but its limited focal range of 25-300mm may not be sufficient for capturing certain types of car shots, such as wide-angle shots of a car’s exterior or shots from unique angles. The ELPH 360’s autofocus system is generally good but may not be fast or accurate enough to capture fast-moving cars or action shots. Autofocus also struggles in low-light conditions or with certain types of subjects. Nonetheless, it’s one of the best beginner cameras for car photography here.

Pros:

  • Great camera for causal car photography
  • Excellent zoom for a digital camera
  • Compact and lightweight

Cons:

  • Lacks many robust features versus the competition

While the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 can be a good option for casual or beginner car photography, its image quality, zoom lens, autofocus, and usability may not be sufficient for more advanced car photography needs. Suppose you’re looking to capture high-quality car photos. In that case, you may want to consider a camera with a larger sensor, faster autofocus, and more advanced manual controls, like some of the other options on this list. Nonetheless, this is still an adequate camera for the job

Quantitative Measurement

Frame rate: 7.5/10
Shutter speed: 8/10
Battery life: 8/10
Design: 8/10

Panasonic LUMIX GH5

7.Panasonic LUMIX GH5Type: Mirrorless
Resolution:
20.3 MP

The Panasonic LUMIX GH5 is a highly capable mirrorless camera designed for all those car meets and shoots you may be planning. The GH5 features a 20.3-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor that delivers excellent image quality, even in low light conditions.

This Panasonic camera is very robust and can withstand almost any weather condition, given that you are careful. The camera’s high-resolution sensor, wide dynamic range, and fast autofocus can help capture fine details and vibrant colors in the car’s body, interior, and surroundings.

Pros:

  • High-speed AF system
  • 5-axis dual image stabilization
  • Solid build quality

Cons:

  • Menu interface can see improvements

The GH5 features a fast and accurate autofocus system, which is especially useful for capturing fast-moving subjects. The camera offers 225 autofocus points, which cover almost the entire frame, and also includes face and eye detection. Overall, the GH5’s combination of high-quality imaging, versatility, and rugged build can make it a great choice for capturing stunning car photography.

Quantitative Measurement

Frame rate: 8/10
Shutter speed: 8/10
Battery life: 8/10
Design: 8/10

Canon EOS 6D Mark II

9.Canon EOS 6D Mark IIType: DSLR
Resolution:
26.2 MP

With its full-frame sensor and advanced autofocus system, this EOS 6D Mark II DSLR camera from Canon can easily capture sharp and detailed images of cars. The camera’s dynamic range and low-light performance also make it suitable for shooting in various lighting conditions, which is often necessary when photographing cars.

Additionally, the camera’s fast burst mode and large buffer make it possible to capture multiple shots of fast-moving cars in quick succession. To add, the camera’s autofocus system is fast and accurate, with 45 cross-type autofocus points that cover a wide area of the frame. The camera’s burst mode is decent, allowing you to shoot up to 6.5 frames per second. Its low-light performance is also impressive, with good noise control even at high ISO levels.

Pros:

  • 45 cross-type autofocus points
  • Good low-light performance
  • Decent burst mode

Cons:

  • Limited dynamic range

The EOS 6D Mark II supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC connectivity, which allows you to easily connect it to a Mac, your computer, smartphone, or tablet to transfer images. Its built-in GPS is also a useful feature for photographers who need to geotag their images. Overall, this Canon DSLR is an excellent camera that delivers high-quality images, fast and accurate autofocus, and sturdy build quality.

Quantitative Measurement

Frame rate: 8/10
Shutter speed: 8/10
Battery life: 7/10
Design: 8/10

Sony Alpha A6600

10.Sony Alpha A6600Type: Mirrorless
Resolution:
24.2 MP

The Sony Alpha A6600 is a mirrorless camera that boasts a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor, 5-axis in-body image stabilization, and an advanced autofocus system. It’s a good camera for car photography for almost all level types. The camera’s APS-C sensor delivers excellent image quality, and its advanced autofocus system with 425 phase-detection autofocus points ensures fast and accurate focus on moving cars. To add, the 5-axis in-body image stabilization is also a useful feature that helps to reduce camera shake and produce sharp images, even when shooting handheld.

Additionally, the camera’s fast burst mode of up to 11 FPS with continuous AF and exposure tracking makes it possible to capture multiple shots of fast-moving cars in quick succession.

Pros:

  • Wide 425-phase/425-contrast detection
  • 4D Focus
  • 5-axis in-body image stabilization

Cons:

  • Built-in flash missing

This is surely one of those best cameras for car photography as its autofocus system is both fast and accurate, with 425 phase-detection autofocus points that cover a wide area of the frame. Its burst mode is also impressive, allowing you to shoot up to 11 frames per second with continuous autofocus and exposure tracking. Overall, the Sony Alpha A6600 is a feasible choice for anyone looking for the best cameras for car photography, bar none.

Quantitative Measurement

Frame rate: 8/10
Shutter speed: 8/10
Battery life: 7/10
Design: 7.5/10

OLYMPUS OM-D E-M1 Mark III

11.OLYMPUS OM-D E-M1 Mark IIIType: Mirrorless
Resolution:
20.1 MP

The Olympus-OM-D E-M1 Mark III is a mirrorless camera that boasts a 20.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor, 5-axis in-body image stabilization, and an advanced AF system. This system comes with 121 cross-type autofocus points and a fast burst mode of up to 18 frames per second with continuous autofocus and exposure. As a result, tracking objects is made easier to capture fast-moving cars in sharp focus.

Additionally, the camera’s in-body image stabilization helps to reduce camera shake and produce sharp images, even when shooting handheld. Its 20.4-megapixel sensor also delivers high-quality images with good color accuracy and dynamic range. The weather-sealed body is also a useful feature that makes it possible to use the camera in various weather conditions, which can be helpful when photographing cars outdoors.

Pros:

  • 121-point cross-type AF
  • Weather sealed body
  • Very lightweight

Cons:

  • Small sensor size

Overall, this Olympus camera is a reliable and versatile camera that’s suitable for capturing high-quality images of cars. Its advanced autofocus system, fast burst mode, in-body image stabilization, and weather-sealed body make it one of the best cameras for car photography.

Quantitative Measurement

Frame rate: 8/10
Shutter speed: 8/10
Battery life: 7/10
Design: 7.5/10

The wrap-up

Choosing the best camera for car photography depends on several factors, which include the type of car photography you plan to do, your budget, and your personal preferences. Ultimately, the best camera for car photography is one that caters to your needs and helps you capture stunning images of cars that showcase their style, beauty, and power.

Next, check out the best cameras for product photography or cameras for filming hunts. Alternatively, you can get the best car chargers for iPhone to charge your device on the go.