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Best Cameras for Landscape Photography

For landscapes and the outdoors, we break down the top camera models from point-and-shoots and mirrorless to dslrs.

Yellowstone landscape photo

Yellowstone captured with a point-and-shoot

Credit: David Wilkinson/Switchback Travel

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Buying a camera for landscape photography can be overwhelming, but the process should be fun and not just a leap of faith. First, choose among the three main tiers of cameras: point-and-shoots, mirrorless cameras, and digital SLRs. Then do some research based on your price range and specifications. The good news is that you can find reasonably priced cameras in all categories that capture quality images, and many are light enough that they won’t be much of a burden to carry. Below is what you need to know, and all of the information is current for 2020.    

Option 1: Point-and-Shoots

Point-and-shoot cameras are about the size of a notecard with an attached zoom lens and mostly automatic features (hence the name). Don’t be fooled: technology keeps advancing and these cameras capture good images, are easy to use, and lightweight. In terms of cost, they run the gamut from inexpensive cameras that barely outperform your smartphone to high-end models built for professionals with large sensors and impressive lenses.

Point-and-shoots have experienced a resolution explosion in recent years, along with the rise of superzooms (some have a zoom range of 50x or more). The reality is that the small sensors and lenses on most point-and-shoots can't capture as much light or sharpness as bigger cameras. If you want large, professional-grade prints, consider a mirrorless camera or digital SLR below. Otherwise, point-and-shoots have their advantages. When making prints, an average point-and-shoot should produce a 12” x 18” print without a significant drop-off in quality. For larger prints, consider a point-and-shoot like the Ricoh GR III that has an APS-C image sensor, which is the same size as many DSLRs. Pros:  Lightweight, easy to use, and relatively cheap.  Cons:  Mostly automated, struggle with large prints. Things to Remember:  Don’t be overwhelmed by features—focus on fundamentals like sensor size, megapixels, zoom, battery life, cost, and brand reputation. Price Range:  $100 to $1,000+ Top High-End Point-and-Shoots:  The high-end  Sony RX100 VII  is a feature-packed point-and-shoot that pretty much does it all. We also like the  Panasonic Lumix LX10 , which has a faster lens and is cheaper. The Ricoh GR III in an interesting option with its extra large APS-C image sensor (the same as most DSLRs), but that camera has a fixed 28mm lens with no zoom. It's the ideal compact camera for street photography but a little narrow for landscapes. Top Mid-Range Point-and-Shoots: We still like the   old  Sony RX100  here, which is a fraction of the the price of the RX100 VII above. Keep in the mind that the zoom range is 28-100mm instead of 24-200mm, which is 4mm narrower and therefore less optimal for landscapes.  Top Budget Point-and-Shoot: The  Canon PowerShot SX740 HS  has a huge zoom range at 24-960mm, is easy to use, and relatively inexpensive. The biggest downside is the small sensor, but that's an issue with just about every point-and-shoot in this price range. More:  See our page on the  Best Point-and-Shoot Cameras of 2020

Option 2: Mirrorless Interchangeable-Lens Cameras

Mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras are the new kid on the block but they've made a big splash among serious photographers. Built entirely for digital, this modern breed of compact camera foregoes the internal mirror system of a DSLR; instead, light passes through the lens directly to the image sensor like a point-and-shoot. This build allows for a large image sensor in a relatively small camera body.

For landscape photographers, mirrorless cameras are a very intriguing option. Sony has lead the pack with its full-frame a7 series for years, but there are a number of great other options from brands like Fujifilm and Panasonic. It’s worth noting that good wide-angle lenses for mirrorless cameras can be pricey, and a full set-up easily can end up costing more than a comparable DSLR. However, we love the lack of bulk and many professional landscape photographers are making the switch.

Pros: Compact, easy to use, great image quality. Cons: Lenses can be expensive, and weight savings are noticeable but not groundbreaking.  Things to Remember: Sony, Olympus, and Panasonic largely have dominated this sector and offer the most extensive collection of lenses, but traditional powerhouses Nikon and Canon recently made the jump to mirrorless.  Price Range: From around $400 for an entry-level model to $3,000 and up for the full-frame Sony a7R IV. Top High-End Mirrorless Cameras : It's not even much of a conversation: the full-frame  Sony Alpha a7R IV  is the best mirrorless camera on the planet for landscape photographers.  Top Mid-Range Mirrorless Cameras:  Sony keeps coming strong with the  Alpha a6500 , which includes weather sealing, 4K video, built-in image stabilization, and some of the fastest autofocus in the business. We also like the Fujifilm X-T3 , which is an excellent all-around mirrorless camera with ample quality lens choices for landscapes and other uses.  Top Budget Mirrorless Cameras:  The old  Sony Alpha a6000  currently is a steal with the releases of the a6500 and a6600. With a kit lens it costs less than many high-end point-and-shoots yet will produce far better images.  More: See our page on the Best Mirrorless Cameras of 2020

Option 3: Entry-Level and Mid-Range DSLRs

Digital SLRs—bigger camera bodies with interchangeable lenses—take professional grade images and foster the greatest photographic expression. Cameras of this type have considerably larger sensors than do point-and-shoots and capture fantastic detail and color. They also operate with less automation, allowing for adjustments in shutter speed, ISO, and aperture, among others (some point-and-shoots offer variations of these adjustments but it's not the same).

Digital SLR and point-and-shoot size comparison

The downsides of digital SLRs come with a higher price tag and increased size and weight. These cameras are bulkier than mirrorless cameras and many times larger than point-and-shoots, and you will need at least one lens and a camera bag to protect your gear. But on the whole, the image quality produced by digital SLRs is worth the extra bulk to many photography enthusiasts (consider it a form of cross-training). These photographs can be enlarged and hung on the wall for a lifetime. Pros:  Less automation (more room for creativity), professional grade image quality, great for large prints. Cons:  Less automation (more room for user error), size and weight, cost. Things to Remember:  Get to know the camera before your trip by reading the manual and going out for some test shoots. Many digital SLR’s have automated settings such as ‘landscape’ and ‘portrait’ but you will want a baseline of familiarity. Price Range:  Budget DSLR camera/lens kits start at around $400; professional set-ups can cost $2,000 and up. Top Cameras:  The 24.2-megapixel  Nikon D5600  is a powerhouse mid-range DSLR, and the  Nikon D3500  is an outstanding budget DSLR. We also like the  Canon Rebel T7i , but that camera has a number of video-centric features that drive the price up and many landscape photographers won’t need. Finally, Pentax makes the only weather-sealed DSLRs at the budget end of the spectrum, including the Pentax KS-2 . More:  See our page on the  Best DSLR Cameras of 2019

Option 4: Professional DSLRs (Full Frame)

The critical distinction between entry-level and professional digital SLRs is the jump to full-frame—professional DSLRs have extra large 36x24mm sensors that take full-frame images.

DX/FX distinction

In the image to the left, the inner box represents a DX photograph and the outer box is a full-frame or FX photograph. The difference is rather astounding: full-frame images contain substantially more visual information.

Full-frame cameras are phenomenal—the best of the best—and if you can afford one it will not disappoint. There are fewer deals in the full-frame market than we would like and lenses are particularly pricey—the extra large sensors require extremely precise (and therefore expensive) glass.

For landscape photography, one full-frame camera stands out from the pack: the Canon EOS 5DS R . With a whopping 50.6 megapixels of resolution, the 5DS R offers 20.1 more megapixels than the Canon 5D Mark IV  and a 4.9 more megapixels than the Nikon D850 . This camera is built for still photography with fewer video options than the competition, but we appreciate the split from the hybrid model at this end of the spectrum. The cameras above not named the Canon EOS 5DS R certainly aren’t slouches, and you can even explore some budget full-frame options like the Canon EOS 6D Mark II  and  Nikon D750 . Both offer impressive resolution for landscape photography and are among the best cameras out there.

Pros:  Exceptional image quality (the best), high resolution prints of any size. Cons:  Cost, learning curve, size and weight. Things to Remember:  With a full-frame camera you should be prepared to invest in quality full-frame lenses (some smaller lenses are compatible but the images will be cropped). Price Range:  Camera bodies start at around $1,400 for the Canon 6D Mark II; good lenses cost nearly that much or more.  Top Models: Nikon D850 and Canon EOS 5DS R Lenses: See our article on Lenses and Focal Lengths for Landscapes More:  See our page on the  Best Full-Frame Cameras of 2020

Option 5: Your Smartphone

For years, we hesitated to include smartphones in this article for a number of reasons. The images sensors were tiny, resolution was poor, the lenses didn’t have wide-angle capabilities (older iPhones couldn’t go wider than 28mm, for example), and the photos just didn’t come out very good. That said, the tides have shifted in 2020, and particularly with the release of the latest iPhone 11. The base model has two lenses including a separate ultra-wide at an impressive 13mm, along with a standard 26mm lens (the Pro adds a third tele lens at 56mm). The Google Pixel 4 is another quality smartphone for photography, although it can’t match the wide-angle capabilities of the latest iPhone. 

iPhone 11 landscape photo

With these improvements, we now frequently use our iPhone 11 Pro in the field, even for professional and website use. How does it perform for these purposes? The convenience is unparalleled, the new triple-lens set-up is fantastic, and the photos are increasingly usable in terms of resolution and quality. That said, images do get pixelated fairly easily if you plan on cropping or enlarging them and can look very electronic, autofocus is mediocre at best, and the files are small enough that editing in Photoshop can be challenging. All in all, smartphone photos can’t match a dedicated mirrorless camera or DSLR, but we’d take the convenience of our iPhone over most point-and-shoots any day. Plus, it makes for a terrific supplementary camera. 

What we like: Incredibly convenient, and the latest iPhone 11 sports a true wide-angle lens.  What we don’t: Image quality still is limited, and particularly if you crop, enlarge, or edit.   Things to Remember: If you really want to capture great images on a smartphone, shoot away. We often find that various elements of the photos are compromised, so take multiple shots and experiment with the different lenses and modes.   Price Range: The iPhone 11 currently is $699 for the base model without a trade-in, and the Google Pixel 4 is $799.  Top Smartphone Cameras: The iPhone 11 is the best overall smartphone for photography on the market in 2020, and the Google Pixel 4 isn’t far behind. 

Lenses for Landscape Photography

Don’t make the mistake of focusing too much on the camera itself while overlooking lenses. For landscapes, you’ll want a lens with strong wide-angle capability, which isn’t as easy as it might sound. Point-and-shoots tend to be around 24mm to 28mm at the wide end, which is serviceable but not optimal for big landscape shots (24mm is much better than 28mm). Mirrorless cameras and DSLRs are offered with kit lenses that usually are around 27mm to 29mm at the wide end. These kit lenses are decent but not professional grade and you’ll likely notice some distortion and softness, which is why we recommend adding a specific wide-angle lens for landscapes. To help clarify this topic, see our helpful guide on lenses and focal lengths for landscapes . 

Weather Sealing

Landscape photographers inherently spend most of their time outdoors, and therefore weather sealing is an important consideration when making a camera purchase. This technology isn’t an exact science and manufacturers aren’t as transparent about weather sealing as we would like, but the process generally involves adding rubber around the joints and buttons to prevent moisture and dust from entering. This won’t necessarily protect your camera during an extended deluge, but it does offer piece of mind during light to moderate precipitation and exposure. 

Weather-sealed mirrorless camera in the rain

Weather sealing unfortunately increases the price of the camera and this technology is most often found on enthusiast and professional models (Pentax is one exception to this rule with entry-level DSLRs like the KS-2). With Nikon, for example, you’ll have to spend up for the D7200 to get weather sealing. For Canon, it’s the 90D but unfortunately not the Rebel series. For a complete list of current options, see our articles on  weather-sealed DSLRs and weather-sealed mirrorless cameras . 

Landscape Photography Is About More Than Your Camera

The header image for this article was shot years ago with a cheap Nikon point-and-shoot that was all this author could afford at the time (we keep it up there for sentimental reasons). It’s definitely not a perfect photo—a tripod would have helped in these early morning hours as would a higher-end camera and lens. But I was out there at sunrise in breathtaking Yellowstone National Park, with freezing hands, taking photos while others were sleeping. You can spend as much as you want on camera gear, but a common thread of great landscape photos is being in beautiful places at the right time of day. Quality cameras and lenses certainly will help your cause, but you can capture memorable landscape photos on just about any budget. 

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Our Expert Guide to the BEST Travel Cameras in 2024

We’ve spent years working as professional travel photographers, and are proud to have put together this definitive guide to the best travel cameras in 2024 for every budget, based on actual hands-on experience.

One of the best souvenirs you can bring home from your adventures abroad is photographs.

As the old saying goes, pictures are worth a thousand words, and nothing brings back the excitement and thrill of holiday memories quite like looking back at your photos.

These days almost everybody has a decent camera in their pocket, thanks to the wonders of modern smartphones. And while these are fine for the average person, if you really want great image quality, you’re going to have to invest in something better.

People say, “It’s not the camera that takes good photos, it’s the photographer”, and this is completely true. Yet there’s a reason professionals use expensive gear – they are better for the job.

Never fear though, that doesn’t mean you need to go out and spend $10k on a set-up! Definitely not.

Church Of The Good Shepherd Best Travel Camera

In fact this article is going to save you time and money by diving straight into the best travel camera for every budget.

So why listen to us?

We’ve been working as professional travel photographers for almost a decade, and have been fortunate enough to put hundreds of cameras to the test during our career.

Based on our personal experience, we’ve been able to narrow down the absolute top choice in every category.

Whether you are a beginner, intermediate or professional, or even if you know nothing at all, we’ll help you make the right choice so you don’t waste your money getting something that just isn’t up to the job.

READ MORE: Check out our comprehensive guide on how to take better travel photos .

Let’s dive into our comprehensive guide for the best camera for travel photography.

Table of Contents

Our Recommendation

Bonus: recommended lenses for sony a6600, bonus: recommended lenses for sony a7iv, size and weight, resolution/megapixels, interchangeable lenses, manual settings, weatherproofing, stabilization, mirrorless vs dslr, what camera do most professional photographers use, what camera is best for travel videos, what is the best small camera for travel, what is the best travel camera in 2024.

Without further ado, let’s get into the article!

Disclaimer – NOMADasaurus is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and the Amazon EU Associates Programme, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

GoPro HERO12 Black – The Best Action Camera

Action cameras have come a long way since we bought our first one back in 2010.

They used to be reserved just for people who were into extreme sports – skiing, skydiving, motocross, scuba diving, etc.

Now they have become one of the top travel cameras on the market thanks to their durability, compact size and high quality.

The good ones shoot in at least 4K video (this one though actually goes up to 5.3k), are completely waterproof and even connect to your phone so can take great photos from any angle.

They also shoot time-lapse photography, which is great if you’re catching an epic sunrise or particularly busy urban scene.

Even if you are not interested in jumping off of cliffs or mountain biking through a jungle, having an action compact camera is still a brilliant tool to have in your suitcase.

They are especially awesome if you’re looking for the best cameras for adventure travel.

The undisputed king of action sports cameras is GoPro, and we’ve been proudly using them for over 13 years.

These epic cameras have insane image quality and shoot some remarkable video. They’re also extremely durable, waterproof and fit in your pocket.

Adding to the GoPro series is a huge range of accessories that makes getting footage limited by only your imagination.

Check out our brand new GoPro HERO12 Black review to see if it’s right for you!

Different mounts allow you to put them just about anywhere, extension poles get unique angles (perfect for selfies), you can stick a GoPro on a tripod and there are even filters available.

We’ve had just about every GoPro camera since the original HERO was released, and we’re super excited to share that the newest one on the market is by far the best ever.

Their latest camera is the GoPro HERO12 Black , following hot off the heels of the successful HERO11 (click the link to read our review of it), and it’s risen the bar once again.

When the HERO7 came out they introduced a number of revolutionary features, such as HyperSmooth (in-built image stabilisation), TimeWarp (awesome hyper-lapse videos) and SuperPhoto (HDR photos on steroids).

The HERO9 added a front-facing LCD screen, which really stepped things up a notch, especially for vloggers.

The HERO10 brought in the new GP2 processor, which made everything work, well, just better.

The HERO11 went bonkers with a brand new larger sensor, 10-bit colour and all new aspect ratio.

And now with the HERO12 the company has gone and made everything more refined with a host of new features and upgraded battery life.

Gopro Hero 12 Black Camera For Travel

Boasting the fantastic GP2 processor, 1/1.9″ sensor and 8:7 aspect ratio, the latest GoPro HERO12 Black now has HDR video to go along with the expert camera settings.

The massive aspect ratio gives more room to crop, so you can shoot in one perspective and scale later for portrait social media content or landscape YouTube videos.

The camera shoots in 5.3k 60 frames per second, 4k at 120fps and 2.7k at a whopping 240fps (8x slow motion), which also allowing for 27 megapixel screen grabs when using 5.3k on the full 8:7 ratio.

The stabilization is even better with HyperSmooth 6.0 (in-built horizon levelling up to 360 degrees), TimeWarp 4.0 allows to switch between hyper-lapse, real-time and slow-mo recording in the same video with a tap of the screen, and the SuperPhoto has improved HDR abilities.

The screens are still very responsive and look excellent.

SuperPhoto for photographers, in particular, means you can point and shoot, and barely have to edit before uploading to social media. Although we still recommend shooting in RAW for the pros out there.

This article talks more about how to take better GoPro photos, written by a pro.

For the purists out there, the GoPro HERO12 shoots in RAW format for all photo modes.

There is still voice activation and the entire unit is waterproof to 10m, meaning there is no need for a dive housing if you’re not going below that depth.

Also the all-new Night Effects modes are really awesome. Who would have thought you could capture light trails and the Milky Way on such a tiny camera?

For the video gurus out there the HERO12 is a gimbal killer. What does that mean? It means HyperSmooth 6.0 is on another level.

The HERO7 stabilisation was amazing for vlogging and action sports, as was the HERO8 and 9, but after testing the new HERO12, the stabilisation is even better again. Don’t know how they do it, but they do! And it works at 4K at 120fps, TimeWarp and live streaming!

Want slow motion? How does 2.7k at 240FPS sound? Buttery smooth, that’s for sure.

Whereas in previous models they had White, Silver and Black models, the HERO12 only has a Black model.

Q? Encoding=Utf8&Asin=B0Cddy8F9L&Format= Sl250 &Id=Asinimage&Marketplace=Us&Serviceversion=20070822&Ws=1&Tag=No0C4D 20&Language=En Us

Canon Powershot SX740HS – The Best Affordable Camera

If you want a dedicated camera that is cheap and still takes decent photos then you really are spoiled for choice.

We’ve personally owned a whole range of different brands in this range, from Canon to Fuji to Olympus to Sony, and with the way the best travel camera market is now if you’re not fussy about the brand you get, then you can’t really go wrong. But let us explain what you’ll need.

You’ll basically be looking for a small point and shoot, something that is foolproof and most importantly quite durable. Having a big zoom range is a big bonus so you can crop right in on different scenes.

The ability to use manual settings will come in handy if you ever want to play around and learn a bit more about how photography works.

And you want something affordable so that you won’t be overly worried if you lose it (just make sure you backup your photos).

The Canon Powershot SX720HS was a hugely successful compact camera, and Canon backed it up with the amazing SX730HS to become the best budget travel camera.

But like all good camera companies, Canon has stepped it up a notch again by bringing out the newest model in the range, the SX740HS .

This great little travel camera does it all, and for the price, it is the best travel zoom camera out there.

40x optical zoom, manual settings, shoots in 4K video, good color grading, and it is one of the better compact cameras out there.

It also has wifi so you can transfer photos straight to your phone or laptop without plugging it in, or control the camera from your phone. Perfect for the general traveler who just wants something to take decent photos with on their trip.

It also has a large articulated screen, so you can angle your shots perfectly, whether you’re shooting from the ground or above the head.

A few more updates over the SX730HS is an improved small sensor, meaning better low light capabilities, and faster burst shooting, cementing its position as the best budget camera for travelling.

Canon Sx740Hs

READ MORE: Check out our latest guide on the best camera accessories !

Sony RX100 vii – The Best Compact Camera for Travel

This is the next level up. You still want the portability and benefits of having a point and shoot, but you want to take incredible photos too.

You’re interested in learning about the fundamentals of photography, and perhaps want to one day print your photos or maybe put them up online. Ultimately you’re after the best pocket camera for travel.

Here are the things you’ll need: Full manual control, a decent size sensor, zoom, high-quality video, flip screen (so you can shoot from different angles while still framing your shot), ability to shoot in RAW format, good ISO performance and a wide aperture.

This is the category that most people will be in. So if you’re asking yourself what is the best compact digital camera for traveling, read on…

READ MORE: Check out our comprehensive guide to the best landscape photography tips !

This is, in our opinion, the best point and shoot camera for travel on the market. It does everything you’ll ever need it to do and has incredible image quality in a premium compact size.

Sony have completely revolutionized the market with the RX100 range, and with each update it just gets better and better.

Without a doubt there’s no better option for the best compact camera for travel out there than the Sony RX100 vii right now.

The Mark 7 has a very long zoom range (8.6x optical, up from 3.6x optical, which is like having a 24-200mm lens), an amazing 20mp one-inch sensor to capture huge dynamic range, high quality 4K video and an articulating flip screen.

It’s an expensive camera, yes, but if you want the absolute best quality on the market in a small, compact unit that fits in your pocket, this is the best travel camera out right now.

BONUS TIP – If you want to create travel vlogs and have a decent camera for photography too, this is the model for you!

Sony Rx100Vii

Canon G7X Mark iii – Best Camera for Vlogging

Vlogging is the newest craze, and it’s quite literally taking over as the new digital media of choice for many travelers and influencers.

If making videos is more your style instead of taking photos, then you’re going to want to look at a camera that has a range of specific features.

Most importantly is the ability to shoot in 4K (even if not many people have 4K monitors today, in a few years it will be common and you’re going to want to have footage to match the current standard).

Once you’ve got this another handy feature is an articulated LCD screen that can face you while you’re talking in the lens.

This allows you to frame your shot instead of cutting off half your head. Lastly you’ll want a microphone jack to catch better audio.

Get the camera, start filming and put some great videos up on YouTube ! Sounds easy, right? But what is the best travel camera for vlogging…

We’ve used more vlogging cameras than we can remember, from full-frame setups to GoPros and even putting to the test the brand new Sony ZV-1F .

But what have we settled on?

The Canon G7X Mark ii has always been considered the ultimate travel camera for vlogging, but it fell short in a few different categories.

That’s all changed now with the newest upgrade, the G7X Mark iii .

Shooting fantastic 4k video, this travel camera now has an in-built microphone jack for improved audio, a flip-up touchscreen for keeping your face in frame, and has a faster start-up time than previously.

The image quality is also much better now, and with manual control functions it really is a premium compact travel camera.

Canon G7Xiii

Sony A6600 – Best Mirrorless Camera for Travel

You’ve broken out of the realm of standard point and shoots, and you’re looking for a camera that has interchangeable lenses.

You’re getting into the idea of shooting wide, or perhaps portrait shots. Maybe you really would like to get a longer zoom.

Most of all, you really want to get serious about photography.

In your kit will be a range of lenses for a range of situations. You can look at getting filters to give beautiful effects on your shots. You might even want to start growing your photography portfolio .

A few years ago everyone would have recommended you to get an entry-level DSLR. This is no longer the case.

With the way mirrorless technology has gone DSLRs are losing traction and popularity. Now you can get something with the same image quality for half the size.

Torres Del Paine National Park Views

The Sony A6600 is an absolute powerhouse and puts up a good fight for being the ultimate travel camera.

For entry-level mirrorless cameras, Sony broke the mould by introducing the A6000 a few years ago. Since then every model has been lightyears ahead of the competition.

The latest A6600 is their newest offering, and for a compact camera, it is seriously next level.

It boasts one of the fastest autofocus capabilities of any camera on the market, an improved APS-C sensor capable of high-level video and great image quality, a touch-enabled articulating LCD screen and excellent electronic viewfinder.

The range of lenses available for this Sony mirrorless camera is huge, and manages to cover all bases for whether you want to shoot 4K video or take images that you can sell to magazines.

Sony A6600

You can really get away with the standard lenses that come in most kits, but there are a couple of exceptions that you could splurge out for.

All Sony E mount lenses will fit onto the Sony A6XXX series (including the spectacular full-frame range, with a crop factor).

So if you are ever considering an upgrade to full frame and want to buy some new lenses for your APS-C sensor, you can fork out the money early and still use your lenses later on.

Best Wide Angle Lens

There’s really only one option in this range, and it’s the brilliant 10-18mm F4 . To this day one of the best photos we’ve seen taken of the Petronas Towers was taken with a Sony A6000 (older model) and this lens.

Best Portrait Lens

The Sony 50mm F1.8 is a great choice for a native portrait lens. It’s light, fast and cheap. 

The quality is decent without being amazing, but it definitely does a wonderful job for what you pay for.

Otherwise step up to the FE 55mm F1.8 (read about it below), although this will give you a 85mm perspective on the APS-C sensor.

Best Zoom Lens

Keeping with the affordable and light range that makes for great travel camera lenses, we recommend the Sony 55-210mm f/4.5-6.3 .

For the amateur and hobbyist photographer, this will do just about everything you need and is a solid lens to have in your kit.

Humpback Whales Breaching

Sony A7iv – Best Professional Camera for Travel Photography

If you’re like us and want to make capturing the absolute best images of your travels a priority, then you’ll be looking at a professional range of travel cameras.

Following on from the discussion on mirrorless vs DSLR above, you’ll get many professional photographers who choose to stick to cameras like the Canon 6D or 5D series, or the Nikon D750 or D810.

These are legendary cameras in the industry, and with the enormous range of lenses available for each one, there’s a reason the best in the business use them.

But, we’re talking about travel cameras. And for this, we recommended sticking to mirrorless. 

Full frame DSLRs are big and heavy, whereas their equivalent in mirrorless are a fraction of the size.

If you have decided you want to take the leap to a full frame sensor and want to be rocking the best mirrorless camera for travel, then you have only two choices.

READ MORE: But you need to carry everything, right? Here’s our new expert guide to the best camera backpacks on the market today!

Sony was the first major camera producer to create a full frame mirrorless camera, and while Canon has finally caught up, Sony has years of research and development on their side.

The Sony A7 series is almost flawless. Fantastic image quality, 4K video capabilities (on the A7R, A7S and the A7iv), articulating LCD screens, wifi, light, compact and a whole range of native lenses available for it makes them the absolute best cameras for traveling.

And with the Metabones adaptors you can even use your old Canon, Nikon, Sigma, Samyang or other type of lenses on it.

As of 2024, Sony’s top cameras are the A1, A7iv, A7Siii, A7Rv and the A9ii. Now while the A9ii, A7Rv and A1 are absolute beasts of cameras, the truth is you most likely don’t need all the features they have.

We currently own the A7iv and A7Rv, and for professional travel photography, they are the best on the market.

The image quality is superb and the dynamic range is insane. The low light capabilities are also amazing. Even at ISO 12800, there’s barely any noise that shows up on the shot compared to a compact camera.

We personally recommend the A7iv as the best travel camera out there , as it’s just damn near perfect, especially as a hybrid photo and video camera.

4K video with 60fps, a lightning-fast autofocus system, joystick control, touch screen, fast processor, upgraded full frame sensor and amazing battery life.

If you’re the kind of person that loves to blow up their images for print, or does a lot of cropping when you edit your shots, then that’s the only reason you’ll want to step up to the A7Rv, as it has a 62mp sensor.

But wait – isn’t the brand new Sony A7Rv the best in class right now? Yes, it is. However, while it is absolutely incredible and takes things up another notch, it’s quite expensive and the megapixel count is likely not something you need..

Instead we recommend that you save your money on the body, put what’s left over towards some lenses, and get the A7iv be your go to camera for travel photography.

Sony A7Iv

If you’re going for the Sony A7 series, we’ve got some bad news for you. Full frame lenses are expensive.

But if you’re considering turning your photography hobby into a profession, then this is a small sacrifice to make for the quality of photos you’ll be taking.

Trust us, if you’re buying the best camera for travel photography on the market, you’ll want to also have the best lenses to go with it.

The great thing with the Sony Alpha series is that their lenses are all interchangeable, meaning if you start out with a Sony A6600 and eventually upgrade to a Sony A7iv, you can take your old lenses and put them on the new camera (but it will have a crop factor).

Best All-Round Lens

The new FE 24-105mm f4 lens from Sony is pretty much the best all round travel zoom lens for photography.

It’s damn sharp, and with a constant aperture of f4, it means you can get excellent bokeh and decent low-light performance at any focal length.

This lens practically lives on our A7iv, as it’s so versatile, great for video and the image quality is fantastic.

The Sony 16-35mm f2.8 GM lens is one of the best wide angle lenses on the market, and when you throw it on your travel camera, you’re almost guaranteed to get fantastic shots.

Pretty much every review on photography sites raves about it, and having owned it for over three years now, we completely agree.

It’s not cheap, but to have such a fast and wide native lens for the Sony setup is pretty epic! If you want a cheaper alternative, check out the 16-35mm f4 , which is also very good.

Amir Timur Mausoleum

Best Prime Lens

If you are into portrait or street photography make sure you get the FE 55mm F1.8 prime lens.

It’s very fast, very light and very sharp. And with such a good value, it may be the best prime lens that Sony makes (excluding the high-end GM series).

Owning a telephoto lens isn’t just about taking photos of wildlife or zooming in on things that are far away from you. It adds a whole new creative element known as lens compression to your arsenal.

This is the optical illusion that happens when the further you zoom into something, the bigger the background appears.

You start to get this effect from around 100mm and on, so if you’re looking for the best zoom lens to put on your Sony A7iv, consider the 70-200 f2.8 GMii lens, or the 100-400mm GM lens .

We have both of these zoom lenses, and we love love love them!

DJI Mavic Air 2 – The Best Drone for Travel

Aerial photography has gained in popularity over the last two years, and it’s easy to see why. 

Not that long ago the only way to get photos from the sky was by taking a chartered flight or helicopter.

But today just about anyone can go out, buy a drone and start taking shots from very unique angles.

The appeal is obvious. Capturing epic photos and video of landscapes from a perspective that few have ever seen before.

From the moment we bought our first drone (a DJI Phantom 4) we fell in love with it.

Good drones up until now have always been quite prohibitive when it comes to travel due to their bulky size.

The DJI Phantom series helped make it more accessible for most people, but even then it was still a commitment to travel with one.

Today the best drone for travel has finally been determined.

Sunset Vibes Coron

The DJI Mavic series is what you should be looking for when considering a travel drone.

With foldable legs and compact size, they tick all the boxes for portability.

There are a few different models to consider, and it really depends on your needs.

If you’re a professional, we recommend the DJI Mavic 2 Pro , thanks to its 1-inch Hasselblad Sensor and 360-degree collision avoidance.

But just announced is the Mavic Air 2 , and with features like 48-megapixel photo mode, panorama capabilities and 4k video, it’s the best option for anybody trying to take travel photos from the air on their next trip.

Its small size and great value makes it perfect for travel, but one thing to consider is the fixed focal length, meaning you can’t zoom in to take photos.

Note – With whatever drone you buy we highly recommend buying extra batteries. You’ll be surprised how quickly you chew through these. Check out the bundle packages from DJI (called ‘Fly More’ on the Mavics).

Dji Mavic Air 2

GoPro Max – Best 360 Travel Camera

With virtual reality becoming more and more popular, it might be no surprise that one of the best travel cameras for 2024 is actually a 360-degree camera!

These incredible little devices come with multiple cameras on one piece, managing to capture an entire scene in one shot in both photos and high definition video.

When they first came out they were very poor quality, but now they’ve improved enough that we actually travel with one full-time now.

360 cameras became popular when the Chinese company Insta360 started to bring out their affordable options, but the image quality was always pretty poor.

Then GoPro stepped onto the scene with the Fusion, and it changed the industry forever.

With all the standard great features GoPro is known for, such as being waterproof, having awesome connectivity and packing it all into compact cameras, the Fusion took things to the next level.

It did require a bit of work to use though, and the stitching wasn’t great. Plus with two SD card slots required to save media, it was just that bit too cumbersome for most photographers.

Cue the Max!

The GoPro Max took the best parts of all their cameras and threw it together into one unit with this one.

The Max, with its dual lenses on either side of the body, now uses just one SD card, making storage and management so much easier, and it has a touch LCD screen that can be used on the go.

For people looking for travel cameras that can do it all, it doesn’t just shoot in 360-degree mode.

There is their ultra-wide single perspective, and for having a small sensor, the low light shots are surprisingly good.

If you’re a travel vlogger you’ll be amazed at the quality of this! The inbuilt microphones do a great job at picking up audio while cutting out background noise, and the battery life is great.

It shoots at 5.6k video quality and 30 frames per second. You can change the pitch, yaw, field of view and angles to get the view you desire.

Even more unique, it can create 360 time-lapses and hyper lapses with a simple click. No need to pull it up in a program like Adobe Premiere Pro to make your videos any more!

Best of all it connects seamlessly to your smartphone using the GoPro app, so you can do all your editing, sticking and keyframing on the go.

When it comes to a travel camera that tries to do it all, this one is hard to beat.

Gopro Max

That concludes our list of the best cameras for traveling. Let us know if you have any other recommendations, or if you use any of these cameras while traveling the world!

How to Choose the Best Camera for Travel 

No matter what level you are, the first piece of kit you are going to need to buy is the camera.

This can range from a cheap point-and-shoot right up to a top-of-the-line DSLR that can cost as much as a small car.

A quick visit to a camera store can leave you feeling completely overwhelmed with all the choices.

Keep on scrolling to find detailed information about each of these, and why they really are the best cameras for travel.

READ MORE: See what made the cut as the best travel tripod on the market in our expert guide!

What Features to Look for in a Travel Camera

There’s a number of different features that you need to look for when searching for the best travel camera to buy, based on your needs.

The first thing to look out for is how big and heavy a camera is.

When you’re on the road traveling, weight and space is a huge issue to overcome. You don’t want to be lugging around a heavy backpack full of gear if you don’t have to.

If you’re not a pro or a big enthusiast, we recommend checking out a compact camera or mirrorless camera, as they are smaller and more portable, while also providing decent image quality.

One thing that camera companies and salespeople like to preach about is megapixels. But what exactly does that mean?

A pixel is a tiny dot of color that you see on your computer or phone display. A megapixel is 1 million (actually 1,048,576 to be technically correct)  of those dots. So ‘24 megapixels’ so about 24 million dots of color

You may hear that more megapixels equal better quality photos, but this isn’t entirely true.

The sensor has more to do with image quality than the resolution does, but it does play a small part.

In short don’t get caught up about more buying a camera with more megapixels, unless you’re planning on printing your images on billboards.

Instead just use this guide to the best travel cameras to find out exactly what is the best choice you can afford.

Cook Islands Palm Tree Tropical Water Best Travel Camera

One thing to consider when looking at the best travel camera is whether or not you can change the lens.

The reason this is important is that it gives you more choices down the road if you decide you want to get into different styles of photography.

A compact travel camera is most likely a fixed lens, meaning that whatever zoom range it comes with you can’t change.

A camera that you can change the lens on will let you upgrade to wide-angle lenses, a zoom lens, better maximum aperture options for low light performance, etc.

In general, if you can afford a mirrorless camera or DSLR, it’s worth buying.

A camera that allows you to change the manual settings gives you complete control over things like aperture, ISO and shutter speed.

This opens up a whole new world of creativity, and in our opinion, you shouldn’t consider a camera that doesn’t have this feature.

Luckily every recommendation on this list allows you to control those settings, even the GoPro HERO camera below!

It’s 2024 – make sure you get a camera that can shoot 4K video!

This provides much higher resolution when shooting video, and even if you don’t have a 4K monitor at home, you can always take that clip and watch it in high definition 1080p, or even crop into your footage.

Just beware that 4K video chews up your battery life, so make sure you have some spare ones!

Unless you plan on always being in perfect weather when you travel, it’s a good idea to get a camera that is either waterproof, or has good weather sealing.

Unfortunately you often have to compromise on a waterproof camera or a quality travel camera (unless you buy a GoPro), so we don’t recommend buying a camera that is fully waterproof.

Instead just make sure it has decent sealing, or look at buying an underwater housing if you want to get into underwater photography.

How far you can zoom in on a subject is very important when trying to decide the best travel camera.

If you buy a fixed lens camera, make sure it has a long zoom range, like a Canon Powershot or the Sony RX100vii.

Or if you buy a mirrorless camera or DSLR, you don’t have to worry about this as you can always upgrade later.

Galapagos Sea Lion

No matter how steady you think you are, you will almost always have a small amount of camera shake when taking handheld photos.

If you’re shooting at fast shutter speeds, this isn’t a problem. But if you’re photographing in low light, you can end up with motion blur.

Look out for cameras that have inbuilt image stabilization to counter this.

A DSLR ( digital single lens reflex ) works by having a mirror inside the camera. When you are looking through the viewfinder the mirror is down, covering the sensor, and you are looking at a reflected scene.

When you push the shutter the mirror flips up mechanically, allowing the image to be exposed onto the sensor, and then onto your SD card. All these moving parts take up room, hence why DSLRs are larger in size.

With mirrorless cameras, there are no moving parts inside. The image comes through the lens and directly onto the sensor.

There is an electronic viewfinder,  meaning you are seeing a digital copy of what you’re pointing the camera at, rather than a live view.

So without a mirror constantly flipping, the camera can be made a lot smaller. That’s why mirrorless cameras can be half the size of a DSLR.

When mirrorless cameras first came out the quality wasn’t that great. Now they are just about on par with DSLRs, and the portability means that they are the best cameras for travel photography!

In case you’re not sure what we mean, this article goes into a bit more information, but in short, we recommend getting a mirrorless camera.

Photos Of Penguins

The 3 most popular cameras that pros use are the Canon 5Div, the Nikon D850 and the Sony A7Riv.

For general travel videos, the kind of stuff you would publish on YouTube, we recommend the Sony RX100vii. If you’re looking to create more cinematic videos, the A6600 is the best compact travel camera for videos.

If you need the best small camera for travel, you should buy the Canon SX740HS. Compact, high quality and affordable, this little beast is a fantastic travel camera.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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About the Author - Alesha and Jarryd

Hey! We are Alesha and Jarryd, the award-winning writers and professional photographers behind this blog. We have been travelling the world together since 2008, with a passion for adventure travel and sustainable tourism. Through our stories and images we promote exciting off-the-beaten-path destinations and fascinating cultures as we go. As one of the world's leading travel journalists, our content and adventures have been featured by National Geographic, Lonely Planet, CNN, BBC, Forbes, Business Insider, Washington Post, Yahoo!, BuzzFeed, Channel 7, Channel 10, ABC, The Guardian, and plenty other publications. Follow our journey in real time on Facebook , YouTube and Instagram .

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The best travel camera in 2024: compact and portable cameras to take anywhere

The best travel cameras are small, lightweight, easy to use and offer a range of features – here are the ones to look at

The best travel camera, woman in a hat holding a camera and smiling

Best travel camera: Our top picks

Best overall, best for most people, best for vintage styling, best budget, best for vloggers, best waterproof camera, best for reach, best action camera, best 360 action camera.

The best travel cameras have to do one crucial thing: be better than your phone. After all, your phone is almost certainly going to be in your pocket anyway – and it's almost certainly got a great camera. 

That means the best travel cameras need to combine compactness with image quality, advanced features with simple operation, and ideally the ability to get your files onto your phone, tablet or laptop quickly, to share your holiday photos and vacation videos. Having a camera that's safe to take on the beach, in the snow or even in the sea could be another key consideration!

1. Best overall 2. Best for most people 3. Best for vintage styling 4. Best budget 5. Best for vloggers 6. Best waterproof camera 7. Best for reach 8. Best action camera 9. Best 360 action camera

Even though the best camera phones can produce great images, you just don't get the same quality as you would if shooting with one of the best point-and-shoots or best mirrorless cameras . Smartphones are restricted by smaller sensors offering lower still and video quality, reduced low light performance and minimal control over depth of field (for those blurry backgrounds). 

The type of camera you pick comes down to personal preference and budget. To help you decide which is best, we've split the guide into two sections. First, we'll look at mirrorless cameras that offer better image quality and more versatility than compact systems but at the cost of increased size and weight. 

Secondly, we'll look at compact cameras that are pretty much pocket-sized, perfect for keeping on you at all times, won't weigh you down, and are really simple to use – although they have smaller sensors and fixed lenses.

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

When picking the best travel camera, we're focusing on portability, and the dinky but mighty Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is one of the best portable cameras around. Read more below

Fujifilm X-S10 body

The Fujifilm X-S10 is one of the best all-around APS-C cameras you can buy right now. It's got a fully-articulated screen and generally handles very well (despite having fewer external control compared to the Fujifilm X-T4 and Fujifilm X-T30 II ) Read more below

Nikon Z fc

If you're looking for a camera that has modern tech but vintage styling then the Nikon Z fc is the king of style, sporting a design from precious film cameras. Read more below

Panasonic Lumix G100

If you want a small camera that shoots great stills and video, and cost cost the earth the Panasonic Lumix G100 is the best budget option out there for travel. Read more below

Sony ZV-E10

If you want to start a travel vlogging channel on YouTube then you need something compact, but mighty on specs and the Sony ZV-E10 is the perfect choice for wannabe travel vloggers. Read more below

OM System Tough TG-7

If you're planning on a coastal adventure then you need a camera that is fully waterproof and rugged enough to take on the most challenging adventures, the Tough TG-7 is for you. Read more below

The best travel camera in 2024

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

Best mirrorless travel cameras

Mirrorless cameras might be a little heavier and larger than compacts, but they deliver better quality (through larger sensors) and the option to change your lenses. The best lenses for travel give you the ability to capture ultra-wide-angle photos of famous landmarks and also zoom in on the beautiful details in the distance. You'll also find that they perform better in low light.

Hands holding the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV best travel camera

1. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

When picking the best travel camera, we're focusing on portability, and the dinky but mighty Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is one of the best portable cameras around. Not only does it have an incredibly lightweight body, with tactile dial-led controls, but it also uses the smaller-but-still-powerful Micro Four Thirds sensor.

While this has some slight disadvantages in terms of low-light capabilities, it effectively doubles the focal length of any lens mounted to the camera; so a 50mm will behave like a 100mm. And the best Olympus lenses include positively tiny lenses that go a long way for travel photography, helping you keep your kit and weight size down. We haven't even talked about everything else that's great about the E-M10 Mark IV: its snappy burst shooting, its accurate autofocus, and its impressive 4K video. It's a terrific all-around camera. 

Read our full Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV review .

Fujifilm X-S10 best travel camera sitting on a marble table

2. Fujifilm X-S10

The Fujifilm X-S10 is one of the best all-around APS-C camera you can buy right now.  It's got a fully-articulated screen and generally handles very well, despite having fewer external control dials and buttons compared to the Fujifilm X-T4 and Fujifilm X-T30 II . Having in-body stabilization is also a huge bonus, making it easier to shoot handheld with slower shutter speeds – which is hugely useful for low-light work and using longer lenses. 

As with all Fujifilm X bodies, the JPG are stunning straight out of camera and it features a variety of different film simulation modes if you want to add a little something to your pictures. In terms of APS-C cameras, we're hard-pressed to think of one that offers a better balance of features, performance, and price than the Fujifilm X-S10, and that's why it's one of our top picks. 

Read our full Fujifilm X-S10 review .

man looking through the viewfinder of the best travel camera Nikon Z fc

3. Nikon Z fc

If how your camera looks is really important to you, you can't go wrong with the Nikon Z fc. It comes in a choice of vibrant colors including mint green, coral pink, and dark orange so, no matter what your preference is, there will be one you love. 

When this camera was first released, it was so popular that Nikon struggled to keep up with demand . And no wonder; this compact camera isn't just a beauty on the outside, as its 20.9MP APS-C (DX) sensor delivers super high-quality images that you can transfer on the go thanks to built-in Bluetooth and WiFi. 

One of the biggest downsides to the Z fc is the lack of native DX lenses available, however. Nikon and other third-party brands are slowly bringing out more, but you might need to use much heftier full-frame glass to tide you over until then.

Read our full Nikon Z fc review .

A hand holding the best travel camera Panasonic Lumix G100

4. Panasonic Lumix G100

Travelers don't just shoot stills any more! For many of us video is just as important as still images, if not more so, and it's these vloggers and content creators that the Lumix G100 is aimed at. It makes it easy to capture high-quality video and stills with its approachable button layout. 

But even if you are uninterested in the technicalities of capturing great-looking videos, you will be able to get still images with this camera. There’s an inherent risk of dumbing things down too much when creating a camera for social media creatives, but Panasonic has avoided that pitfall with the Lumix G100.

This is a great camera to start with if you're just as interested in vlogging as you are in regular photography. It's also a super-small, super-cute camera with a wide range of Micro Four Thirds lenses available – though its autofocus uses Panasonic's cruder contrast-detect technology, which is notorious for "pulsing" and "hunting" during video.

Read our full Panasonic Lumix G100 review .

The best travel camera the Sony ZV-E10 sitting on a wall behind some leaves

5. Sony ZV-E10

The Sony ZV-E10 is one of the cheapest vlogging cameras yet, and combined with its slim dimensions this makes it a perfect choice for travelers who want to shoot a little video. It comes with sophisticated built-in mics and a clip-on windshield for noise reduction, making it much easier to get clean audio on your vlogs even outdoors, and the 4K UHD video it produces is of excellent quality. 

As we've come to expect from Sony, the autofocus is best in class, whether shooting video or stills. And a point worth mentioning is that, while the ZV-E10 may be optimized for vlogging, it's still a capable stills camera with 11fps burst shooting in the tank, so don't worry about restricting yourself with it. The ZV-E10 makes for an excellent traveler's camera.

Read our full Sony ZV-E10 review .

A red OM System Tough TG-7

6. OM System Tough TG-7

Following the aquisition of Olympus's camera divistion, the OM System TG-7 is essentially an update to the much-loved Olympus Tough TG-6 . It might have relatively conservative 12MP resolution, but it makes up for this by packing a sensor that's back-side illuminated. This means that a) there are less pixels, but each one is larger to capture more light, and b) the sensor design is more efficient at gathering light in challenging conditions. 

This is important because the TG-7 is a camera that can take pictures and video underwater – where there is obviously less ambient light. It can also take pictures and video in the dust, sand, snow, and heat – and it's drop-proof, crush-proof and freeze-proof. No more having to baby your camera, or not take it with you to the places where you're going to get the best photos! 

Even if you're not going to be hiking, climbing, swimming or otherwise putting your camera in danger, the Tough can capture RAW photos and capture 4K video, and has brilliant built-in macro and microscope modes for ultra close-up shooting. And since it's near indestructible, it's one of the best cameras for kids , too!  

Read our full OM System Tough TG-7 review .

A hand holding the best travel camera the Panasonic Lumix ZS200

7. Panasonic Lumix TZ200/ZS200

The Panasonic TZ200 / ZS200 benefits from a larger 1-inch sensor and it also has a 15x zoom, which zooms all the way to 360mm on a full-frame sensor. You can shoot in JPG if you want to use the images straight out of the camera or RAW if you prefer to edit your images first. For those who love documenting holidays through video, it can shoot in 4K and it also has a 4K Photo Mode that can extract 8MP still images from a burst sequence. 

If you're looking for versatility, portability, and advanced features without the fuss of interchangeable lenses, look no further.

Read our full Panasonic Lumix TZ200 / ZS200 review .

DJI Osmo Action 4

8. DJI Osmo Action 4

For most adventurer-creators, the Osmo Action 4 is the perfect balance of quality and price. Stabilized 4K video looks great and the camera can take a lot – not just rough and tumble but temperature extremes and it's waterproof to 16m without a case. Best of all, it has a larger image sensor than any other camera on the list, so it is better in lower light, making it more flexible.

DJI did have an interesting experiment with modular design, now seemingly abandoned, with the Action 2, but they do retain powerful magnetic mounts which can even partially survive the heat of an oven (we tried accidentally – see our full review). 

Like the more famous competition, DJI has high-quality horizon balancing and image stabilization, which has improved on the Action 3. The resolution limit is 4K, but in practice, this is the ideal resolution for action (and the limit of almost all TVs). More useful is the 120fps capability (or 240fps at 1080P).

The fact that Action 4’s isn’t interwoven with subscription software is one we wholeheartedly appreciate, too, but GoPro seem to finally growing out of this.

Read our full DJI Osmo Action 4 review for more depth.

Insta360 X3

9. Insta360 X3

There are times when handling even an action camera's wide-angle lens becomes a problem, and that's where a 360-degree action camera can step in. With two back-to-back lenses and enough smarts to eliminate a selfie stick from the footage, this almost magic camera can capture an image from a point within reach looking any direction you see fit.

I tried it with the bike attachment – which holds the camera a little way in front of the bike, over the front wheel – and was amazed at the footage which makes it look like I'm cycling toward a perfectly controlled drone. Better still, by syncing with my phone I could draw GPS data and have it overlaid, in the form of a speedometer, by the Insta360 app before sharing.

The only real worry is how naked those glass lenses are when the camera is in use; the joy of re-positioning the camera angle after the fact can be hours of fun. 5.7K is good enough for sharing, but more resolution would help pro work.

Read our full Insta 360 X3 review for more details

How to choose the right travel camera

These are five key things to look out for when choosing the right travel camera for your needs.

1) Image quality: Ask yourself how you will use any photos or videos you capture. If you only plan to share content online on social media then any of the above cameras will be suitable. If you plan to print your pictures, though, then mirrorless cameras with larger sensors and higher megapixel counts will produce better-quality results.

2) Focal range: What kind of range do you need for your traveling activities? Compact cameras can have impressive zoom ranges, but to achieve their tiny size they often lack quality compared to mirrorless cameras. For mirrorless cameras, what lenses are available? So-called standard zooms are a great option for all types of travel, but they can also be large and heavy. A wide-angle lens might be best for capturing cities and landscapes, or if you are going to see wildlife or a sporting event then a compact telephoto lens might be best.

3) Size and weight: If you're going on vacation then the last thing you want to take is a heavy kit – especially given things like baggage restrictions when traveling. With that in mind, both your camera and lens(es) need to be small and light. If you want something that can fit in your pocket, get a compact camera – but if you don't mind taking a bag, a mirrorless system with one or two lenses could be more versatile. 

4) Simplicity: Don't want to get bogged down with camera settings? Most modern cameras have a range of auto modes – especially compact cameras, which take away the stress. Advanced modes and complicated controls don't usually mix with spur-of-the- moment snaps, so decide what is important to you and pick your camera based on that.

5) Price: The cameras in our list have a range of prices, and we try to include cameras that suit every budget. The price of a camera usually reflects its capabilities, although all the options listed here will take great images and video – so try to strike the right balance between what you need in a camera and what you can afford.

How we test travel cameras 

Want to find out how we test and review DSLR and mirrorless cameras? We trial cameras both in real-world shooting scenarios and in carefully controlled lab conditions. Our lab tests will generally measure resolution, dynamic range, and signal-to-noise ratio, which gives us a benchmark by which to compare cameras. 

Resolution is measured using ISO resolution charts, dynamic range is measured using DxO Analyzer test equipment and DxO Analyzer is also used for noise analysis across the camera's ISO range. Our compact camera evaluations are based on real-world testing alone.

For our real-world testing, our reviewers spend time with each camera, testing it in a variety of shooting situations and providing their qualitative thoughts on how the camera was to use and evaluating the images and video it produced. Here's an example of how we literally take a camera on vacation to evaluate it!

How we choose the best travel cameras

When we are reviewing cameras, we carefully think about what scenarios each camera could be used for. When considering which cameras would make ideal travel cameras, we judge each camera on how small and lightweight it is for easy packing and transport, as well as carrying for long periods of the day while out exploring. 

We also consider the technical capabilities of each camera, and how suitable they are specifically for travel photography scenarios from beach vacations to safaris, to city breaks. Finally, we consider the price of the cameras to select options that cover a range of budgets and requirements.

We use our real-world experience with each camera and our in-depth camera knowledge to determine a final selection of top cameras that we would recommend as the ideal camera traveling companions.

Is it better to use phone or camera for travel?

We covered this a little bit at the start of the article, but the answer is that it is always better to use a camera for stills or video when possible. So the question really becomes, "Do your travel plans make using a camera possible?" Phones are so small and quick to use that they go where cameras are too bulky and slow to shoot. A great compromise is a compact camera – or the Olympus Tough TG-6 , which is a weather-proof camera that goes the places that you wouldn't dare to use your phone! 

Is a DSLR or mirrorless camera better for travel photography?

As a travel camera, mirrorless cameras are usually the better choice for most people. They are much small and lighter than DSLRs, and also usually have a selection of smaller and lighter lenses to match. This makes traveling easier as it takes up less space and weight in increasingly restricted carry-on bags. Mirrorless cameras also are generally newer than DSLRs and most likely have more modern technology, making photography and video easier to capture and of better quality.

What size camera lens is best for travel?

Again, this comes down to what your travel plans entail and what you plan to shoot. The kit lens that comes bundled with many cameras will cover the most commonly used focal ranges, so that's a good place to start (though kit lenses do not deliver the best image quality). We recommend checking out the best lenses for travel photography to see what's right for you.

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Gareth Bevan

Gareth is a photographer based in London, working as a freelance photographer and videographer for the past several years, having the privilege to shoot for some household names. With work focusing on fashion, portrait and lifestyle content creation, he has developed a range of skills covering everything from editorial shoots to social media videos. Outside of work, he has a personal passion for travel and nature photography, with a devotion to sustainability and environmental causes.

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Best cameras for landscape photography 2022: top picks for the great outdoors

Discover the best cameras for landscape photography

A camera on a tripod pointed towards a misty landscape

Looking for the best camera for landscape photography? If it's scenic shots you're after, then you've come to the right place – we've rounded up all of the finest photographic companions for the great outdoors, whatever your budget.

Landscape photography cameras often have a specific range of skills, because they're usually attached to tripods during exposures that are too long for handheld shots. Rather than burst modes or advanced autofocus, the most important factors are often resolution, build quality, weather-proofing and their overall size. 

While large sensor cameras can be pricey, this means that you also don't necessarily need the absolute latest models – so we've included a mix in this in-depth guide, based on countless hours spend out in the field. Naturally, lenses are also an important factor when choosing the best landscape photography camera, so we've factored that in, too.

Full-frame and medium format cameras offer the highest resolutions for making larger prints and offer the best noise handling at high ISO settings. The latter isn’t essential for landscape photography cameras, making smaller and lighter APS-C and Micro Four Thirds (MFT) cameras strong options if you need a camera that’s more comfortable to carry over long distances. Editing software tricks like Adobe ’s 'Super Resolution' also makes it possible to double the size of raw files with excellent results, so lower resolution sensors don't always present a major problem.

There’s no denying that medium format cameras like the Fujifilm GFX 50S II provide the best overall image quality with larger pixels spread over a huge sensor to provide smoother color and tonal graduations. But image quality from smaller sensor cameras remains impressive. So much so, that professional landscape photographers can simply use the camera format that best suits their needs.

What's the best camera for landscape photography right now? Overall, we'd say it's the Sony A7R IV. Despite being a few years old, its mix of an excellent 61MP sensor, a sturdy weather-proof build, and Sony's excellent range of recently updated lenses give it the slight edge over the Nikon Z7 II. But you don't have to spend a fortune to get a great landscape photography camera either, as the other options in our guide show.

How to choose the best camera for landscape photography

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Buying any camera for a specific genre of photography involves weighing up your budget, personal preferences and other factors like existing lenses. For landscape photography, this certainly applies, but it's one subject where you can capture fantastic images with few, if any, bells and whistles – it’s resolution, size, weight and build quality that are most important.

The size and weight of a camera system are very much a personal choice; some photographers are willing to carry larger and heavier medium format cameras to enjoy the best image quality possible. While others opt for the middle ground with a full-frame camera. Then some prefer the size and weight advantages of APS-C and Micro Four Thirds cameras.

Weather-sealing is always important because it’s not uncommon to find yourself shooting in inclement weather. And although a rain cover is always useful to avoid putting a wet camera into a dry camera bag, knowing that your camera and lenses are dust and moisture resistant adds another layer of confidence in these situations. 

Buying a new camera is always an exciting prospect, but it can also be fraught with risk. Choose the wrong model and you’ll be cursing yourself for years to come, or could even find yourself trading in prematurely. The camera market can be confusing, so we’ve compiled a list of the best landscape photography cameras suitable for all budgets and requirements.

The best cameras for landscape photography in 2022:

1. sony a7r iv.

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

It may be an all-rounder that's capable of shooting a wide variety of subjects, but the 61MP Sony A7R IV is particularly compelling for serious landscape photographers. It shoots incredibly detailed images with good exposure, low noise and pleasing colors – and is bolstered by a fine range of landscape-friendly lenses, too.

With many excellent Sony wide-angle primes and zooms, plus high-quality offerings from third-party lens manufacturers, there’s no shortage of optics to suit your style and way of shooting. And with a 16-35mm f/4 and a 16-35mm f/2.8 available, there’s a wide-angle zoom option to suit all budgets, too.

The A7R IV offers long-lasting battery life when set to Airplane Mode, but with Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity you can wirelessly tether the camera to a laptop with ease or enjoy wireless control of the camera. A built-in interval timer makes shooting time-lapses incredibly easy, and there’s a Pixel Shift Multi Shooting feature where several sensor-shift images can be merged to create a larger image file, although the 61MP resolution is more than satisfactory in most situations.

The main downside to Sony mirrorless cameras is the unintuitive menu system, which is tricky to navigate compared to other manufacturers. But with dust and moisture resistance, plenty of customization options and direct access buttons, alongside 567 AF points, you’re never too far from your next best landscape shot. If the A7R IV's price and resolution are too high for you, then it's also worth considering the 33MP Sony A7 IV.

  • Read our in-depth Sony A7R IV review

Perfect landscape lens: Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM

The Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM is one of, if not the best, lenses available in this focal range. And while it’s expensive, the large maximum aperture combined with excellent image quality make it a great option for landscape photographers who need a versatile wide-angle zoom. The f/2.8 maximum aperture may not be as fast as the FE 24mm f/1.4 GM or the FE 20mm f/1.8 G, which are great lenses for astrophotography, but the 16-35mm can perform well when shooting this type of photography, making it a fantastic all-round option for landscape and outdoor photographers shooting with A1, A7 and A9-series cameras.

2. Nikon Z7 II

Nikon may have been late to the full-frame mirrorless camera party, but the Z7 II is the company’s most impressive offering to date. This 45.7MP professional camera is pricey and ideal for landscape photography, but if you need a full-frame Nikon mirrorless camera with an equally impressive feature set, then the 24.5MP Z6 II provides a more cost-effective alternative.

There aren’t as many native lenses available for the Nikon Z system as Sony E-mount, but for landscape photographers, there are all the wide-angle primes and zooms you could ever need, plus the promise of more to come. That’s alongside some impressive third-party options, although once again there are fewer than for Sony E-mount due to the infancy of the Z-mount. The Mount Adapter FTZ II, however, allows the use of an extensive catalogue of F-mount lenses to be used with the camera.

Features of interest include base ISO 64, an interval timer for time-lapse photography, class-leading weather sealing, and the ability to set the camera to take focus-stacked images to be merged in Photoshop for a larger depth-of-field in the final image. The camera offers dual card slots – one SD and the other XQD – with the latter being faster and more expensive than the former. This may be of use to action and sports photographers, but for landscape shooters dual high-speed SD card slots would have been preferable. Still, it's a minor black mark on one of the best landscape photography cameras around.

  • Read our in-depth Nikon Z7 II review

Perfect landscape lens: Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S

Every landscape photographer needs a wide-angle zoom, and the Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4 S is a versatile workhorse. Despite the lens' ultra-wide 14mm minimum focal length, it has an 82mm filter thread – which means you can use standard 100mm filters, rather than requiring 150mm filters like some ultra-wide lenses. This lens isn’t as fast as the Nikkor Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S, but the larger focal range and more affordable pricing make the 14-30mm f/4 a fantastic option that can be complemented with the Nikkor Z 20mm f/1.8 S if you need a fast prime for astrophotography, for example.

3. Canon EOS R

If you’re a Canon DSLR owner or someone looking for an affordable entry point to full-frame mirrorless cameras, the 30.3MP Canon EOS R is an attractive option. It's now well over three years old, and there are rumors of a possible successor later this year. But for landscape shooting, the EOS R continues to offer superior value to over the admittedly more future-proofed Canon EOS R5.

In terms of lenses, the Canon RF line-up is growing fast. Like Nikon’s Z-mount lenses, it’s still smaller than the longer standing Sony E-mount options. This will, of course, grow over time and third-party options will also improve, but for existing Canon DSLR owners and newcomers to the RF system, the optional Mount Adapter EF-EOS R makes it possible to use Canon’s extensive list of EF/EF-S lenses, as well as those from third-party manufacturers.

The EOS R uses a sensor that’s similar to the one in the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV . This means it isn't as up to date as more recent EOS R models or those from Nikon and Sony, but it still provides a very respectable performance. There’s also only one SD card slot, but with excellent dust and water-resistant sealing, 5655 AF points, a low price and solid overall handling, it remains a fine landscape photography camera. Particularly for those who are on a budget but want to shoot with a full-frame mirrorless camera.

  • Read our in-depth Canon EOS R review

Perfect landscape lens: Canon RF 15-35mm F2.8 L IS USM

Buying a cheaper body can leave you with more cash to spend on lenses, which is never a bad thing. Canon’s wide-angle options are currently limited, but the RF 15-35mm F2.8 L IS USM is a versatile option that will let you to shoot landscapes and even astrophotography thanks to its f/2.8 maximum aperture. If this lens is out of your budget, the slightly wider but slower RF 14-35mm f4 L IS USM is also a fantastic option. And if you’re looking for a wide-angle prime, the Canon RF 16mm f2.8 STM is inexpensive, extremely small and lightweight.

4. OM System OM-1

Some landscape photographers like to carry the smallest and lightest kit available, while still enjoying professional features and functionality. And this is exactly what the Olympus OM-1 offers. Its sensor is just 20.4MP and in the smaller Micro Four Thirds (MFT) format, but the camera does offer an 80MP High Res Shot Mode where the sensor shifts to create larger raw files. The only downside is that this function doesn't work as well with landscapes that contain movement.

The great thing about the Olympus and Panasonic Micro Four Thirds lens mount is that lenses are interchangeable between the two manufacturers. So, while both companies produce some similar lenses, others are completely different, which means you benefit from a wider range of possibilities. Plus, there are lots of third-party lenses available for the MFT lens mount.

Despite its diminutive size and low weight, the Olympus OM-1 is a professional powerhouse packed with the latest technology, including IP53 dust and moisture resistance and arguably the best in-camera image stabilization available today. It’s so good that it's possible to shoot one-second exposures handheld. 

Other bonuses include focus stacking and a Live Composite Mode, which combines long exposures into a single image that builds on an initial exposure as new light enters the scene. This is great for night photography, because it takes some of the guesswork out of exposures, and is popular with photographers who regularly paint with light.

Perfect landscape lens: Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 8-25mm f4 PRO

Having a choice between Olympus and Panasonic MFT lenses is fantastic for photographers, because it provides many more lens options than most systems. There are several wide-angle options available, but the one that combines performance, price and ease of use is the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 8-25mm f4 Pro, which has a full-frame equivalent focal length of 16-50mm. This makes the lens incredibly versatile, but if you’d like a higher quality lens the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 7-14mm f2.8 Pro is another great option. The only downside to this lens is that despite its small size, it requires the use of a special filter holder and 150mm filters, unlike the 16-50mm that can be paired with standard 100mm filters.

5. Fujifilm X-T4

There aren’t many cameras that can perform as well for both beginners and professionals, but the Fujifilm X-T4 is one camera that successfully breaks the mould – and it does so with style. This retro-inspired APS-C camera with tactile controls features an excellent 26.1MP sensor and is very good value for a camera that’s more than capable of satisfying the demands of professional photographers.

Fujifilm optics are well-known for their excellent performance with several wide-angle zoom lenses and many more primes available to satisfy the needs of landscape photographers. Most are also weather-resistant, which is a huge bonus when partnered with the weather-resistant X-T4. Plus, there are lots of excellent third-party lens options that expand the potential of the system further.

The X-T4 is small and lightweight, offering an APS-C sensor that sits between full-frame and Micro Four Thirds in terms of size. For landscape photography, there are two aspects of the camera that are incredibly useful, despite not being headline features; these are the ability to set the mode dial to T mode and set exposure times much longer than 30 seconds with an on-screen countdown timer. And in Bulb Mode, an on-screen timer is also displayed.

These make it incredibly easy to shoot long exposures with 10-stop ND filters, and Time (T) mode allows you to do so without the need for a shutter remote, using the self-timer instead. There’s also an interval timer available for shooting time-lapse photography, making this a compelling camera option for photographers of all levels. The main negative for the camera is the lack of a supplied battery charger. Instead, an adaptor is provided for in-camera battery charging.

  • Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-T4 review

Perfect landscape lens: Fujifilm XF 10-24mm f4 R OIS WR

There’s no shortage of wide-angle primes for Fujifilm owners, and three zooms provide access to the most commonly used focal ranges in landscape photography. The most appealing lens is the Fujifilm XF 10-24mm f4 R OIS WR offering a full-frame equivalent focal range of 15-36mm with a 72mm filter thread that can be used with 100mm filters. The pricier wide-angle Fujifilm XF 8-16mm f2.8 R LM WR Lens, meanwhile, requires a special filter holder and 150mm filters. You get a wider field of view and faster aperture with this lens, but the need for larger filters on the XF 8-16mm is unappealing when you’ve invested in a smaller system like this.

6. Panasonic Lumix G9

The Panasonic Lumix G9 is most often touted as a great camera for wildlife and sports photography, thanks to its extremely fast frame-rates. But this certainly doesn’t mean it isn't also well-suited to landscape photography – and thanks to its affordable price tag, the 20.3MP Micro Four Thirds (MFT) camera is the perfect option for beginners and enthusiasts. What’s more, there are plenty of great optics to choose from.

Panasonic MFT cameras are also compatible with Olympus MFT lenses since they share the same lens mount. So although there’s some crossover with the lenses that each manufacturer produces, this interchangeability opens up the possibilities for a much wider range of lenses. There are also plenty of third-party lenses available for the MFT lens mount, further widening the options available.

The most impressive features of this camera are geared towards speed, but it’s certainly no slouch when it comes to shooting landscapes. While AF performance and shooting rate are inconsequential for this type of photography, the G9 produces excellent image quality in a small and lightweight package. It also offers focus stacking, an interval timer for time-lapse photography and an 80MP Sensor Shift High Resolution Mode. Although like the Olympus OM-1, this feature may not be well suited to landscapes featuring movement.

  • Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix G9 review

Perfect landscape lens: Leica DG Vario-Elmarit 8-16mm f/2.8-4.0 ASPH

The most versatile lens available for the G9 is the Leica DG Vario-Elmarit 8-16mm f/2.8-4.0 ASPH, offering a full-frame equivalent focal range of 16-36mm. The maximum aperture is variable depending on the zoom factor, but only closes down by one stop as you zoom in. This lens will work perfectly with 100mm filters, but if you’re looking for something slightly less expensive and wider, the Lumix G Vario 7-14mm f/4 ASPH provides an equivalent focal range of 14-28mm. Another lens that’s extremely interesting, but with a professional price tag, is the Leica DG Vario-Summilux 10-25mm f/1.7 ASPH. With a 20-50mm equivalent focal range and constant f/1.7 aperture, this is one of those lenses that could be used for many types of photography, including landscape and astrophotography.

7. Fujifilm GFX 50S II

If maximum image quality is your priority, even at the expense of portability and your bank balance, then there are few better options than the medium format GFX 50S II. It sensor is 1.7x bigger than full-frame, and the result is photos with superb dynamic range and impressively fine detail. This is particularly noticeable in low-light situations, where you can pull out huge amounts of detail from the shadows.

The GFX 50S II certainly isn't cheap, but it actually isn't that much more expensive – even when you factor in lenses – compared to full-frame rivals like the Sony A7R IV and Nikon Z7 II. While you do get a larger sensor than those cameras, the compromise is a slight lack of everyday practicality. The autofocus, for example, is a little sluggish and it can only hit a maximum of 3fps, which will put off anyone who's looking for an all-rounder.

Still, the GFX 50S II is certainly feature-packed in other ways that are beneficial to landscape photographers. The 6.5 stops of in-body image stabilization (IBIS) are there if you fancy taking the camera off the tripod and composing handheld, and it also supports a 205MP multi-shot mode (as long you're shooting static subjects).

Then there are the system's brilliant GF lenses. The GF30mm f/3.5 WR and GF45-100mm f/4 R LM OIS WR are arguably the best choices for landscape shooters, with both offering weather-resistance and impressive sharpness. Like the camera itself, they aren't cheap, and some photographers may prefer the higher-resolution GFX100 or the versatility of a full-frame camera to the more limited GFX50S II. But for landscape shooters in search of maximum quality, it remains one of the best options out there.

  • Read our in-depth Fujifilm GFX 50S II review

Perfect landscape lens: Fujifilm GF30mm f/3.5 R WR

Offering an equivalent focal length to 24mm on full-frame cameras, the GF30mm is a very practical choice for landscape shooters who want something that's neither too big nor too pricey for their GFX camera. It's weather-sealed, weighs 'only' 508g and offers impressive sharpness across the frame. It isn't the brightest lens, thanks to that f/3.5 aperture, but that won't be an issue for most landscape shooters, who'll be looking to capture the fine details of sunlit mountains rather than gloomy music venues.

What are the best settings for landscape photography?

Capturing great landscapes is more about location, composition, light and weather than settings. But even so, using the right settings to ensure the best possible image quality and a large depth-of-field is essential. Typically, ISO needs to be set to the base ISO setting which is usually ISO 64 or 100. This provides the maximum dynamic range available for the camera being used. 

Beyond ISO, shoot in manual or aperture priority and set metering to Evaluative/Matrix for an exposure value that’s calculated according to light and dark areas in the scene, with white balance set to Daylight. Shooting in Daylight white balance will capture the natural color of the light rather than being neutralized by Auto white balance. Plus, you can adjust the white balance when processing raw files. 

For landscape photography, shooting in raw provides a huge amount of scope for making adjustments to reveal, recover and enhance the rich detail you’re typically capturing. Plus, it ultimately helps you to enjoy the best image quality possible, because you’re working on the raw image data rather than a JPEG that has already been processed in-camera.

When it comes to focusing, for a large depth-of-field, it’s recommended that you focus a third of the distance into the scene beyond the foreground area that you’d like to be sharp and in focus. This can be applied manually or using autofocus. In terms of aperture, it’s best not to set the minimum aperture of f/16 or f/22 because diffraction (an overall softening of the image) will be an issue. Instead, shot at f/11-16 on a full-frame camera, f/8-f/11 with APS-C and f/5.6-f/8 for Micro Four Thirds.

How we test landscape photography cameras

Buying a landscape camera these days is a big investment, so every camera in this guide has been tested extensively by us. These days, real-world tests are the most revealing way to understand a camera's performance and character, so we focus heavily on those, along with standardized tests for factors like ISO performance.

To start with, we look at the camera's design, handling and controls to get a sense of what kind of photographer it's aimed at and who would most enjoy shooting with it. When we take it out on a shoot, we'll use it both handheld and on a tripod to get a sense of where its strengths lie, and test its startup speed.

When it comes to performance, we use a formatted card and shoot in both raw and JPEG (if available). For burst shooting tests, we dial in our regular test settings (1/250 sec, ISO 200, continuous AF) and shoot a series of frames in front of a stopwatch to see if it lives up to its claimed speeds. We'll also look at how quickly the buffers clears and repeat the test for both raw and JPEG files, even though this is less crucial for landscape cameras.

In various lighting conditions, we also test the camera's different autofocus modes (including Face and Eye AF) in single point, area and continuous modes. We also shoot a range of photos of different styles beyond landscape (typically portrait, low light and macro/close-up) in raw and JPEG to get a sense of metering and its sensor's ability to handle noise and resolve fine detail.

If the camera's raw files are supported by Adobe Camera Raw, we'll also process some test images to see how we can push areas like shadow recovery. And we'll also test its ISO performance across the whole range to get a sense of the levels we'd be happy to push the camera to.

Battery life is tested in a real-world fashion, as we use the camera over the course of the day with the screen set to the default settings. Once the battery has reached zero, we'll then count the number of shots to see how it compares to the camera's CIPA rating. Finally, we test the camera's video skills by shooting some test footage at different frame-rates and resolutions, along with its companion app.

We then take everything we've learned about the camera and factor in its price to get a sense of the value-for-money it offers, before reaching our final verdict.

  • Check out our guide to the world's best cameras for photography

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James Abbott

James Abbott is a professional photographer and freelance photography journalist. He contributes articles about photography, cameras and drones to a wide range of magazines and websites where he applies a wealth of experience to testing the latest photographic tech. James is also the author of ‘The Digital Darkroom: The Definitive Guide to Photo Editing’.

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The 11 Best Cameras for Travel of 2024, According to Professional Photographers

The Sony Alpha V is our favorite.

best camera for travel landscape photography

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Travel + Leisure / Marcus Millan

Cameras let us snap scenes that inspire, places that take our breath away, and simple moments that make up the fabric of a destination through our eyes. Hefty camera bodies with giant lenses might seem like the obvious choice for top-notch photos, but for travel, they can be a bulky hindrance taking up too much packing space. Instead, consider your specific needs as a jumping off point when you're ready to shop for a new camera. Are you a hardcore adventurer? Are most of your travels long-haul trips? Are you a beginner or advanced photographer? These are all questions you should ask yourself to help narrow it down.

Whether you purchase a budget-friendly camera or something pricier, it'll be an investment — not only financially, but also in trusting your pick to properly capture once-in-a-lifetime experiences that don't come with do-overs. To help with your travel camera search, we researched dozens of options and spoke to professional photographers Jonathan Pozniak and Viktoria North, as well as Nikon senior product manager Mark Cruz.

Best Overall

Sony alpha 7r v.

It has superior auto-focus with 61 megapixels and 8K video capabilities.

The large number of customization options can take a while to set up.

The freshly released full-frame, interchangeable lens Sony Alpha V is our top pick for a plethora of reasons, but what it really boils down to is crisp, high-quality imagery, intelligent features, and stellar 8K video. Mirrorless cameras are a fantastic choice for travelers due to a lightweight, portable design that doesn’t lack in the features department; this one ticks all of those boxes and more. The tilting live-view screen gives photographers flexibility and shows real-time settings in action, so you can easily adjust when shooting in manual or shift to video. 

Battery life is fantastic as well, which is great when you’re exploring a new travel destination. Although the price point is on the higher end, the quality certainly matches it. Another fantastic feature is that this camera can be completely tailored to your preferences with the various settings, though it takes a while to get things configured to your liking. Dual SD card slots are ideal for professionals shooting in the field for longer amounts of time, days spent walking around a new city, or hiking to remote spots. We also love the fast Wi-Fi, real-time auto tracking in video, and impressive subject recognition, from humans to animals, birds, and insects, as well as even vehicles and airplanes.

"Mirrorless cameras are equipped with the latest technology and are smaller than traditional DSLR cameras,” Cruz says. “They're great for those shooting handheld and carrying their camera around for street and travel photography . They are also easier to use and have superior video capabilities thanks to more robust focusing."

The Details: 35mm full frame, Exmor R CMOS sensor | 61 megapixels | 1/8000 to 30 s, Bulb, Movies (NTSC mode): 1/8000 to 1/4 (1/3 steps) shutter ​​| 8K 24p/25p4 and 4K 60p/50p5 | 1.6 pounds

Best Action Camera

Gopro hero11.

It’s adventure-ready with protection against water, dust, and drops.

It’s only waterproof up to 33 feet underwater, so it’s not ideal for scuba diving.

For a tiny little cube, the GoPro camera series does a stand-up job of capturing photo and video on almost any endeavor, making it a fantastic travel companion. We love the GoPro Hero 11 Black for its new, larger sensor that makes capturing high-quality stills from your videos a possibility. Incredibly lightweight and portable, it’s easy to throw in your pocket or backpack, or attach to your body for wherever your travels take you, whether it’s snorkeling in crystal clear water or zipping down the mountain bike trails. We also like the RAW burst mode, stabilization, and 5.3K video for crisp quality with rich details and coloring. Choose from Easy and Pro modes, where you can either use it as it's shipped (which is great for most) or fine-tune certain settings to your liking. For a rugged travel camera that fits almost anywhere, the GoPro Hero 11 Black delivers protection for your ventures as well as quality for your photos and videos.

The Details: 33 feet | 1 hour and 13 minute battery life | 27 megapixels | 1/1.9-inch CMOS sensor | 5.4 ounces

Best Budget DLSR

Canon eos rebel t7.

It's super affordable and user-friendly.

It's best suited for entry-level photographers.

With the Canon EOS Rebel T7, you can save your dollars without skimping on image quality, and there's not much more you can ask for in the DSLR world. Although there is a newer version of this camera ( EOS Rebel T8i ), the T7 is still the most budget-friendly device with features perfect for someone ready to branch out and learn the ins-and-outs of DSLRs. That being said, it's more suited for a beginner photographer who wants to amp up their game past smartphone photography . It's a fantastic camera to practice manual mode and learn how to adjust ISO, aperture, and shutter speed settings. Eventually, it's likely that you'll be ready to graduate to a more complex camera — but we all have to start somewhere, right?

Canon is well known for having a straightforward, easy-to-use system, which is a huge bonus for beginners. The LCD screen is helpful for navigating the menu and setting up images, though it does lack the luxury of touchscreen capabilities. Built-in Wi-Fi allows for quick sharing between devices, so your amazing shots can be posted to social media platforms in a jiff.

The Details: Cropped CMOS sensor | 24 megapixels | 1/4000 to 30 seconds, bulb shutter ​​| Full HD Video at 60 frames per second | 15.06 ounces (body only)

Best Budget Mirrorless

Canon eos r50.

B&H Photo

It’s compact and lightweight, offering great value for its features.

It’s currently only available for pre-order, so it won’t ship right away.

The brand new Canon EOS R50 snags the spot for best budget mirrorless and doesn’t only promise great photo quality, but its video capabilities are fantastic as well. With 4K uncropped video and stellar subject detection and tracking at a friendly price point, this mirrorless model is a great everyday camera that’s ideal for everything from social media video captures to portrait and landscape shooting. Interchangeable lenses give you flexibility, and the compact design won’t weigh you down. Excellent auto-focus that can be tailored to detect humans, animals, and even vehicles is a major highlight, as is the 12fps (frames per second) burst mode. The touchscreen and creative assist mode make this a beginner-friendly camera as well as one that won’t break the bank.

The Details: Cropped CMOS (APS-C ) sensor | 24.2 megapixels | 1/4000th sec - 30 seconds, in 1/3-step increments shutter ​​| 4K at 30 frames per second | 11.52 ounces

Best Retro Look

Fujifilm x-t5.

It has a timeless look but totally modern capabilities.

The dials and switches can sometimes change easily with a bump of your finger, shifting your settings accidentally.

We love the vintage design of the Fujifilm X-T5 and the fact that it’s not just pretty to look at, but is also a high-performing mirrorless camera. Its lightweight profile is ideal for travel, and this model offers stunning image quality and up to 6.2K video. Two SD card slots mean that you can shoot as much as you want while discovering a travel destination. We really like the two-way tilting screen, raw shooting capabilities, body image stabilization to reduce shake, and tracking of moving subjects. Solid battery life and weather protection add to the allure, particularly for travelers who should be prepared for anything and everything. If you’re in the market for a new camera with a timeless look, this one fits the bill.

The Details: 23.5 x 15.6 mm (APS-C) CMOS sensor | 40.2 megapixels | 1/8000 to 30 Seconds shutter ​​| 4K at 60 frames per second, 6.2K at 30 frames per second | 16.8 ounces

Best Mirrorless for Beginners

The user-friendly design makes learning photography with this model much easier.

The flip screen tends to get in the way of a tripod attachment if you're using one.

We love how the Nikon Z50 is small enough to fit in your pocket, but don't be fooled by its size: it produces big-time quality images. "For those new to photography and video, this camera provides an exciting entry point. It's small enough to carry with you, but offers higher-quality images than your phone. This model is great to learn with as it incorporates many easy-to-use features, plus offers an automatic mode that senses different shooting scenarios and automatically adjusts the camera's settings (e.g., ISO range, exposure compensation) to deliver stunning results," Nikon's Cruz says.

The flip-down LCD screen is ideal for travel photographers and creators that want to take selfies, vlog, or include themselves for scale. The Z50 is also designed to save settings for both photo and video separately, so you don't have to worry about changing everything when you switch modes. With low-light capabilities, an easy-to-navigate menu, a sleek design, and 11 frames per second at full resolution, a beginner travel photographer will be hard pressed to find a better mirrorless camera.

The Details: Cropped APS-C CMOS sensor | 20.9 megapixels | 1/4000 to 30 seconds, bulb, time shutter ​​| 4K at 30 frames per second | 14 ounces (body only)

Best Budget Point-and-shoot

Panasonic lumix dc-zs70s.

It's a small but fierce camera that fits in a shirt pocket.

The viewfinder is on the smaller side.

The features that this point-and-shoot camera packs in are quite impressive given its small size and affordability. For those interested in boosting their photography up from smartphone imagery, the Panasonic LUMIX DC-ZS70S is an excellent travel companion. It's capable of capturing both JPEG and RAW format images, and with the whopping 24-720-millimeter zoom range on the Leica lens, you can hone in on fine details from a distance. The vari-angle touchscreen, built in Wi-Fi, and continuous autofocus are all welcome details jammed into this pint-sized wonder as well. Charging the battery via the micro-USB port without even having to remove the battery from the camera body is a breeze.

Have fun shooting with the wide array of scenery modes, such as "vivid sunset glow," "clear sports shot," and "backlight softness." Or just keep it in "intelligent auto" mode and let the camera do what it does best. This pocket-sized point-and-shoot is a trustworthy camera for capturing travel memories.

Sensor Size: Cropped 1/ 2.3 MOS sensor | 20.3 megapixels | Mechanical shutter: 1/2000 to 4 seconds, electronic shutter: 1/16000 to 1 second​​ | 4K at 30 frames per second | 11.36 ounces

Best Splurge Point-and-shoot

Sony rx100 iii 20.1 mp premium compact digital camera.

It’s a versatile compact camera that produces high-quality imagery for almost any situation.

Image quality diminishes with the use of the optical zoom feature.

The Sony Cybershot DSC-RX100M3 is our favorite splurge point-and-shoot for many reasons, but the low light capabilities and fast processing are a solid start. The F1.8-2.8 24-70 millimeter Zeiss lens not only performs well in lower light situations but also provides a versatile focal length appropriate for all types of photography. Whether you want portraits with beautiful bokeh blurring, macro of flora and fauna, or wider landscape photos, this camera can seemingly do it all — and fast, with the Bionz X processor.

Another exciting highlight of this Sony model is the revolutionary pop-up electronic viewfinder, something not found in compact cameras until now. Battery life is approximately 320 shots, which is likely sufficient for most shooting opportunities before a recharge is needed. Another major highlight is the built-in 3-stop neutral density filter, which helps in harsh light conditions to avoid overexposing and a shallow depth of field. The tilting LCD screen is great for selfies or video taking, and afterward, you can easily transfer to your phone via the built-in Wi-Fi with the use of an app. This travel-friendly compact camera packs a punch with features and quality while staying small and lightweight and won’t completely drain your funds either. 

The Details: 20.1 megapixels | 1.0 inch Exmor R® CMOS sensor, aspect ratio 3:2 | Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 2.9 x 24-70 millimeter F1.8-2.8 lens | 180-degree tiltable LCD | HD / 60p | 10.2 ounces with battery and memory card | 4 x 2.4 × 1.7 inches

Best Underwater Point-and-shoot

Olympus tough tg-6.

It's tough and effective.

Divers should be aware that the waterproofing level only goes to 15 meters.

The Olympus Tough TG-6 is exactly what it claims to be: tough, rugged, and capable of taking superb underwater photos and videos. The solid handgrip does a great job giving you that extra security as you swim around and shoot the underwater world . With a unique internal zoom mechanism, the 25-100-millimeter lens doesn't stick out from the camera body, keeping it watertight while you capture macro details of marine life from a safe distance. RAW shooting and 4K video make this not just any old underwater camera, but one with impressive capabilities. The super slow-motion mode is another favorite. It's rated as waterproof to 50 feet, making it the perfect companion for your snorkeling or free diving adventures . It's not just waterproof either; the shockproof design makes this camera perfect for ventures outside of the water as well. Bring it hiking, mountain biking, or just for a day at the beach without having to worry.

The camera is also easy to use, which is exactly what you want when you're shooting underwater. "I had fun with the Olympus TG-6 on assignment in Bora Bora. I'm a terrible swimmer so all I could do was click away and hope for the best. Thankfully it worked!" Jonathan Pozniak shares.

The Details: Cropped 1/2.3" CMOS sensor | 12 megapixels | 1/2000 to 4 seconds in auto mode​​ shutter | 4K at 30 frames per second | 9 ounces

Best Phone Lens

Moment tele lens.

It gives you 2x and 4x zoom capabilities when attached to single and multi-lens smartphones.

Using this lens mount requires a special Moment's M-series case.

With ever-evolving, advanced capabilities for photo and video, a smartphone lens can be a solid all-around tool for capturing your vacation memories. Though they don't produce high-quality imagery for large-scale prints, what they can do is enough for most travelers. We love the Moment line of smartphone lenses for the ability to elevate your photography game a bit without having to purchase an actual separate camera. The tele lens 58mm is a versatile option to slap on your phone and get that extra boost in zoom. This is great for travelers hoping to extend their range some, especially with wildlife and landscape photography. Since it's compatible with most Apple, Google, OnePlus, and Samsung devices, it's a logical option for almost anyone with a smartphone.

"For most people, a smartphone is all you need, but that may vary for each trip. If I'm out hiking for the day, my iPhone 12 Pro in my pocket is all I need, and the fact that it shoots RAW and video is a huge plus." Pozniak explains.

The Details: 58 millimeter | 300 line pairs per millimeter (axis), 200 line pairs per millimeter (edge) | 39.5 millimeter lens | 2.6 ounces

Best for Video

Sony alpha zv-e10.

It's compact, sleek, and has tons of features to let your creativity shine.

For live-streaming video, it supports 720p, not 4K.

We love Sony's compact camera that was designed specifically for vlogging and travel videos. Things like wind and background crowd noise will be less of a problem when recording videos with the Sony ZV-E10, and with your pick of E-mount lenses, you can capture versatile content. If you're a vlogger, the real-time autofocus will be a game-changer, allowing you to comfortably move around in frame while staying in focus.

Low light isn't a problem for the ZV-E10, and it has multiple picture effect modes that allow you to make unique, one-of-a-kind videos. The one-button blurred background control is simple to use for a cinematic effect while filming or taking photos, and stabilization technology keeps things steady too. Using built-in metadata, videos can be shot vertically without any rotation necessary, making social media sharing a breeze.

The Details: Cropped APS-C Exmor CMOS sensor and fast BIONZ X processor sensor | 24.2 megapixels | 1/4000 to 30 seconds, 1/4000 to 1/4 second in movie mode shutter​​ | 4K at 30 frames per second | 12.1 ounces (body with battery and memory card)

Tips For Buying a Travel Camera

Understand the specs.

"When you're thinking about buying a camera, it's important to understand what features and specifications complement your shooting style as well as the content you are looking to capture, whether it be still images, video content, or both," says Nikon's Mark Cruz. These are some of the specs you should consider before making a purchase.

Sensor size: Your camera's sensor is the rectangle that reads the image from your lens and dictates how much light and detail you're able to capture. The main sensor sizes to decide upon are cropped or full-frame, with full-frame cameras having larger sensors and the ability to produce higher image quality. Cropped frame sensors will get you a tighter frame, with magnification cropping the actual lens focal length by anywhere between 1.5x and 2x. This means that a 70-millimeter lens would be magnified to a 105-millimeter focal length with a crop factor of 1.5x. Common crop sensor sizes are APS-C and micro four thirds (1.6x and 1.5x).

There are advantages to purchasing a full-frame (35 millimeter) camera, though it will come with a heftier price tag. You'll experience sharper images with more crisp details, as well as less noise. Additionally, a full-frame sensor has excellent low-light capabilities, making it the ideal aspect for astrophotography . For landscape photography, the wider field of view is a major advantage of the full-frame sensor as well. If you're interested in professional photography, selling prints, or turning your shots into custom photo gifts , the full-frame sensor will be a good fit since it produces the highest possible quality images.

Megapixels: This is a measurement of the number of pixels the camera sensor has, with "mega" meaning "millions." Usually anything over 12 megapixels will get the job done. However, if you're planning on printing large-scale versions of your images for personal or professional use, the higher the megapixel count, the better. Most cropped sensor cameras have somewhere around 20-24 megapixels while full-frame cameras tend to have between 40 and 50 megapixels.

Shutter speed: This dictates the amount of time that your camera's sensor will be exposed to the light coming in. Faster shutter speeds such as fractions of a second are usually used for quickly moving subjects in order to freeze the motion in the photograph, while slower shutter speeds are typically used to capture things like the flow of a waterfall or the stars in the night sky by having it open and exposed for a longer period of time. When buying a camera, it's a good idea to purchase one with a wider range of shutter speeds to give you the most versatility. Typically, the range is between 1/4000 to 30 seconds. "Bulb" is available on some models and offers more than 30 seconds of exposure to light, usually for photographing the night sky.

Video shooting: The highest quality video on most cameras is 4K, which will give you superb quality. However, many still have full HD video at 1080p or 720p. If video is high on your priority list, 4K is certainly the way to go.

Weight: For travel cameras, this is one of the most important factors to consider. Most travelers want a camera that is lightweight for packing purposes and easy to carry around for the day. Think about if you are willing to lug a bigger DSLR or even a mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses in order to have the option for high-quality images that can be printed at a larger scale. If that's more than you need, then a compact, point-and-shoot, or your own smartphone with extra lenses might be the best fit for you.

Buy for your skill level and purpose

While browsing for a travel camera, first assessing your skill level and main purpose for shooting will help narrow down your search considerably. If you're a professional photographer doing brand work with a hotel in a far-flung destination that will be used in marketing campaigns or billboards, your purchase will most likely look a lot different than if your goal is to get images for your travel-focused Instagram page or to simply share with friends and family via digital picture frames . As a beginner, you should purchase a camera aimed at that level of photography with some room to grow, so you can learn effectively without being overwhelmed.

Choose a camera that fits your life and travel style

Are you into the outdoors and spend a lot of time doing water-based activities, or are you mostly interested in food photography when you travel? All of these aspects will help you determine the right fit for you. As photographer Jonathan Pozniak shares, it's also about comfort. "All cameras are good nowadays, and all have fantastic features. So here's my rule of thumb: go to a camera store, and hold each one in your hand. Listen to the sound it makes, feel what the clicking of the shutter is like," he says. "How do your fingers glide across the buttons? It should feel like an extension of your arm. Be intuitive with it!"

The art of packing a camera involves cushioning and protection against the elements (rain, dust, dirt, etc.). A backpack designed for camera use with a rain cover is always a good idea, particularly if you're someone who will be exploring the outdoors. Camera cubes are great accessories that provide an affordable way to turn a bag you already have into a camera bag.

"When I'm not bringing a lot of gear/cameras, I love the camera cubes by Mountainsmith for the airport and plane. I usually keep the cube in my room with extra lenses and if I am doing a lot of walking, just pick one lens to use for the day (usually a 50 millimeter)," says North.

"While today's mirrorless cameras are rugged, it is best to pack them in a camera bag to ensure as much safety as possible and avoid any potential damage. You should also make sure to put the body cap on the camera to protect the sensor from getting dirty, scratched, or damaged while traveling," she adds.

"Circular Polarizer and a UV filter, a comfortable strap like the Peak Design SL-BK-3 Slide , a backpack clip like Peak Design Capture Camera Clip V3 , and if you're heading somewhere with rain or snow in the forecast, Peak Design's shell ," says North.

You'll also definitely want something to backup all the incredible footage you'll be getting. "A portable hard drive for backups is essential! My heart crumbles when I hear stories of cameras and laptops getting stolen on the road. I've certainly experienced that myself. I make multiple backups each day and put each portable drive or thumb drive in a different bag just in case one gets lost or stolen," Pozniak shares.

Our experts also recommend making sure your batteries are fully charged before stepping out each day and bringing along a couple extras just in case.

Our experts had a lot to say when it came to the camera versus lens debate. "The camera and lenses are equally important, but it depends on what a person wants to capture," says Nikon senior product manager Mark Cruz. "The lens is what creates a gorgeous blurred background or lets you get close to the action from far away, but the camera provides the autofocus performance and speed to get there. The most important factor for the quality of photos is how you, as the photographer, make the most of your equipment. Combining photography knowledge with a powerful, capable camera and sharp, versatile lenses will allow you to get the best content."

Meanwhile, professional photographer Jonathan Pozniak argues that they're equally important, and emphasizes keeping your lenses clean: "Both! But what's even more important is how you use it, how it feels in your hand, and I've gotta say it, how clean your lens is!"

Fellow photographer Viktoria North was adamant that lenses are her highest priority, and she has very good reasons for putting them at the top of her must list. "With even the most basic of digital cameras now having impressive MP counts and full size sensors becoming more common, good quality glass is most important for me," she says. "This is because I can achieve a specific feel to my images dependent on the lens. For example, a fixed 50 millimeter is going to allow me to capture my urban travels as my own eyes see things. If I also go fast on it, say F1.8, that means the background is going to be nice and blurred and keep the focus on my subjects. But if I'm traveling in some beautiful vast landscapes, I'd grab a zoom lens. This will allow me to compress the different levels of the landscape and or subject and create a lot of depth. You don't always have to go with a big lens like a 70-200mm. I hike and backpack with a 24-105mm F4 most often and when it's at 105mm, I can achieve some really great compression with it."

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

A travel photographer herself, Lauren Breedlove used her personal experience with finding the right cameras and shooting in various conditions around the world. She also scoured the internet, researching and selecting the best cameras for travel, and interviewed professional photographers Viktoria North and Jonathan Pozniak , as well as Nikon senior product manager Mark Cruz , to gather expert insights. Using all of these factors, she curated this list of the best travel cameras.

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The best cameras for landscape photography

Daven Mathies

Lush forests, rushing waterfalls, and epic sunsets are subjects that never get old. Landscape photography is all about setting up the shot and taking the time to get it right, but having the best camera for the job certainly doesn’t hurt. While any camera can take a solid landscape shot, our money-is-no-object pick for the best is the Hasselblad X1D II 50C. Armed with a 50-megapixel medium-format sensor, it delivers exceptional detail and dynamic range.

At a glance:

The best: hasselblad x1d ii 50c, best full-frame landscape camera: panasonic lumix s1r, best landscape camera for travel: olympus om-d e-m1 mark iii, best landscape camera on a budget: fujifilm x-t30, what is dynamic range.

You might be wondering why we didn’t pick the 100MP Fujifilm GFX 100 , a fellow medium-format camera. While the extra resolution is nice, we don’t think it’s imperative, and the GFX’s other killer feature — in-body image stabilization — doesn’t matter when the camera is on a tripod, which is common for landscape work. The GFX is also quite a bit bigger and nearly twice as heavy, making it more difficult to travel with. And while we did say money is no object, it’s hard to ignore the GFX 100’s price, which is several thousand more than the X1D II.

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Any medium-format camera is going to set you back a pretty penny, though. Fortunately, if you’d rather not open a new credit account, there are some less expensive options in full-frame and crop-sensor cameras that are still excellent for landscapes.

After something a bit different? Check out our collection of the best Black Friday camera deals and best GoPro deals .

  • Best landscape camera overall: Hasselblad X1D II 50C

Why should you buy this: Excellent dynamic range, tack-sharp lenses

Who’s it for: Professionals and anyone who wants the absolute best.

Why we picked the Hasselblad X1D II 50C:

When it comes to medium-format imaging, no other camera company has a pedigree like Hasselblad’s. The Swedish company’s cameras and lenses have been used everywhere — including the moon . Historically, Hasselblad cameras weren’t exactly known as compact or portable, but the relatively new X series sought to change that. This is partly what makes the X1D II 50C such a good landscape camera — it’s actually light enough that you won’t mind backpacking with it.

At the core of the X1D II 50C is a tried-and-true 50-megapixel sensor with about 70% more surface area than a full-frame camera. It’s the same sensor as used in the first X1D 50C (and a few other medium-format cameras) but it continues to be a top performer to this day. In fact, it is the number one sensor in DxO Mark’s imaging test database, thanks to excellent performance in all categories. That means lifelike color, broad dynamic range, and low noise at high ISOs.

Our author had the chance to shoot the original X1D, complete with the exceptional 21mm f/4 lens , on a trip to Spain. It blew him away.

The main improvements in the X1D II have to do with speed and performance, but it remains a rather slow camera compared to the Sonys, Canons, and Nikons of the world. Personally, we never found the lack of speed to be an issue for shooting landscapes, however — in fact, it can even be a benefit. This is a camera that encourages you to put more time into your exposures, and when you do that, you inevitably end up with a better shot.

There are plenty of reasons why other photographers should not pick the Hasselblad X1D II, but if your passion is landscapes, we can’t imagine a camera that will make you happier. That is, of course, if you can afford it.

Read our Hasselblad X1D II 50C review .

Why should you buy this: 188MP high-resolution mode, rugged durability

Who’s it for: Photographers who need a great landscape camera that can easily switch to other tasks.

Why we picked the Panasonic Lumix S1R:

When Panasonic jumped into the full-frame mirrorless arena in 2018, it did so with a very different approach compared to its rivals. The Lumix S series is all about ruggedness and control at the expense of size and weight, which would seem to limit it to a relatively small niche of photographers. Compared to a Sony A7R IV or Nikon Z 7 , two other high-resolution mirrorless cameras, the S1R is almost laughably large. Atop a sturdy tripod, however, it’s a force to be reckoned with.

The S1R is built around a 47-megapixel full-frame, which runs neck-and-neck with the top full-frame sensors on the market. It doesn’t quite match the resolution of the A7R IV, at 61MP, but the real-world difference isn’t that big, with both cameras able to produce very large prints with stunning detail. And if you truly need to maximize detail, you can use the S1R’s high-resolution pixel-shift mode, which takes a series of eight exposures, shifting the sensor slightly between each, and combines them together for a mind-boggling 188MP.

Yes, the Sony A7R IV also has a similar pixel-shift mode — which goes up to 250MP — but unlike the Panasonic, it can’t combine the frames in-camera. The S1R gives you a single RAW or JPEG file that you can view in-camera or easily transfer to your image editing software of choice without having to run it through any proprietary software first. We also have a hard time imaging when we could possibly need more than 188MP.

It doesn’t hurt that the Panasonic Lumix S1R has arguably the most flexible and customizable control layout of any mirrorless camera and is built to handle the elements. A little rain or snow will not slow it down, making it a great camera for adventurous photographers — so long as you can live with the weight.

Read our Panasonic Lumix S1R review .

Why should you buy this: Compact, lightweight, with a 50MP high-resolution mode

Who’s it for: Anyone who wants solid landscape performance they can take anywhere.

Why we picked the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III:

Don’t let the OM-D E-M1 Mark III’s small size fool you — this is a very capable camera built for enthusiasts and pro photographers. Thanks to its relatively small Four Thirds sensor, lenses for the E-M1 are significantly downsized compared with their full-frame (or medium-format) counterparts. This makes the E-M1 a great choice for photographers on the move and is, in fact, our pick for the best travel camera .

But the reason the E-M1 is also a great landscape camera has to do with its 5-axis sensor-shift stabilization. Similar to the Lumix S1R, this allows for a pixel-shift high-resolution mode that combines eight exposures into a single image with extra resolution. So while the E-M1’s sensor only serves up 20 megapixels, it can output 50MP JPEGs and even 80MP RAWs using the high-resolution shot mode. Beyond resolution, this mode helps improve dynamic range by pushing the noise lower compared to a standard photo, helping the E-M1 make up for some of the deficiencies of its smaller sensor.

The E-M1 Mark III also adds a handheld high-resolution mode that wasn’t present on previous E-M1 models. Even without a tripod, you can now take advantage of multi-shot high-resolution images, another feature that comes in handy for the traveling photographer who needs to pack light.

Read our Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III review

Why should you buy this: Flagship performance at an affordable price

Who’s it for: Anyone who wants solid image quality without breaking the bank.

Why we picked the Fujifilm X-T30:

The X-T30 keeps showing up on best camera lists, and for good reason. It’s hard to think of another camera that offers as good of a value proposition. It houses the same sensor and processor as the much more expensive Fujifilm X-T3, but in a compact body with simplified controls that make it more approachable to the novice photographer.

The 26MP X-Trans APS-C sensor won’t outperform the full-frame and medium-format cameras on this list when it comes to resolution, but it still holds its own when it comes to color and dynamic range. That’s what really makes the X-T30 a solid choice for landscape photographers, as it captures a broader range of detail from shadows to highlights compared to its peers in this size and price bracket.

The other thing helping the Fujifilm X-T30 is a couple of excellent wide-angle zoom lenses. Both the Fujifilm XF 10-24mm F4 and 8-16mm F2.8 are stunning — if not exactly cheap. Or, for photographers who want to travel light, the XF 16mm F2.8 is a low-profile, wide-angle prime lens that adds a barely perceptible 5.5 ounces to the camera.

Read our Fujifilm X-T30 review .

Dynamic range refers to the range of brightness a camera can capture before detail is “clipped,” meaning either too dark or too bright to register. Dynamic range is important in landscape photography because there is often a significant difference between the brightest and darkest areas of the image, and you can’t use flash to fill in the shadows like you could with a portrait.

Cameras measure dynamic range in the relative unit of “stops.” An increase of 1 stop means doubling the brightness. The best cameras have a dynamic range approaching 15 stops. To take advantage of your camera’s full dynamic range, make sure you are shooting in RAW.

You can capture even greater dynamic range by bracketing exposures for a high-dynamic range (HDR) composite, which combines several photos shot at different exposure settings to maximize detail throughout the full tonal range of the scene.

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Daven Mathies

Photo editing is a complex discipline, and it's not just for those who like to take pictures and process them after the fact; instead, many people have a need for some form of photo editing, whether professional or not. That's especially the case with the rise of social media and the overall quality of images these days, especially with how easy some apps make it. But, if you're starting out on your photo editing journey or are already on that path, having a solid photo editing laptop can make a big difference.

Whether you want to run Lightroom or Capture One, you need the equipment that's fit for purpose. As such, we've done our best to pick a selection of laptops for various budgets and needs to help save you the trouble of weeding through the currently saturated laptop market. So, be sure to check out all the options and take a look at our quick guide on how we made these picks to get a better sense of what to look for. The Best Laptops for Photo Editing

With working from home, attending online classes, and engaging in streaming now the norm, the best webcams are a necessity. If you're still using a basic webcam or the one that's built in your laptop, you may want to finally make an upgrade so that you can enjoy better video quality and more helpful features. Whether you want the absolute best webcam available, a webcam for a specific purpose, or a webcam on a budget, below are our recommendations. The best webcam

Best webcam overall:

Not only is GoPro one of the most popular names in action cameras, but it’s pretty much responsible for an entire generation of amateur and consumer athletes and adventurers producing professional-level footage of their endeavors. The best action cameras don’t necessarily come cheap, as they have a very small physical form to fit a lot of capability into. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find a GoPro with a discounted price. In fact, right now there are several GoPro deals worth pouncing on. We’ve rounded them all up, so read onward for more details. Best GoPro camera deals

If you’re looking for a camera that has just about everything GoPro has to offer, the GoPro Hero11 Black should be your camera of choice. It can record 5.3K video and take still photos at a resolution of 27 megapixels. It also has GoPro’s newer stabilization capabilities with HyperSmooth 5.0. Plus, the rugged design will be appreciated by athletes and adventurers alike. It’s made to take a beating through mud, snow, or water as deep as 33 feet. That being said, all of GoPro's excellent cameras offer similar features, so it's also worth considering another model if you need to spend less, or want something more capable.

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  • In Progress
  • Newsletters
  • Mirrorless For Travel
  • Table of Contents
  • Best Camera
  • Best Full Frame
  • Best Upper Mid-Range
  • Best Mid-Range
  • Best Budget
  • Best Vlogging

Notable Mentions

Recent updates, all reviews, the 6 best mirrorless cameras for travel - winter 2024 reviews.

Best Mirrorless Cameras For Travel

As is often the case, the best camera for the job is usually the one you've already got on you, and that's especially true when you're traveling and likely don't have the space to pack a bulky camera kit. A smartphone will suffice for most people, especially as modern smartphone cameras become increasingly impressive. But if you want to take your travel photography to the next level, a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera will get you there. While the battery life on mirrorless cameras isn't as strong as their DSLR counterparts, they're tough to beat regarding portability, making them great travel cameras if you want the versatility of shooting with different lenses.

We've bought and tested over 100 cameras in our lab, and below, you'll find our recommendations for the best mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras for travel. If you'd prefer a fixed-lens compact camera, check out our  best compact cameras for travel instead. You can also look at our top vlogging cameras if you're a travel vlogger. Or, if you want a mirrorless camera for use beyond just traveling, check out our recommendations for the best mirrorless cameras  overall.

Best Mirrorless Camera For Travel

Fujifilm X-T5 Design Photo

Among mirrorless options, the Fujifilm X-T5 stands out as one of the best for travel photography. It's aimed at enthusiast photographers, with old-school exposure dials that make it easy to adjust settings on the go and a relatively portable, lightweight design. Beyond its sleek exterior, it also comes equipped with one of the highest-resolution APS-C sensors on the market, with 40 megapixels, capturing stunning levels of detail and giving you plenty of leeway to crop your photos.

If that wasn't enough, it has excellent battery life for a mirrorless model, and the camera feels nice and sturdy, with a weather-sealed body for some more peace of mind if you're caught in the rain. It also features Fujifilm's most advanced autofocus system, with intuitive AF tracking for a wide range of subjects, including many you'll likely encounter while traveling, from people to birds to vehicles. Overall, the X-T5's combination of image quality, portability, and photography-first design make it our top pick for the intrepid travel photographer.

See our review

Best Full Frame Mirrorless Camera For Travel

Sony α7C Design Photo

If image quality is your top priority, the Sony α7C is hard to beat for high-level travel photography. It's one of the most compact full-frame bodies on the market, proving that portability and image quality aren't mutually exclusive. While full-frame lenses are still bigger than APS-C or M4/3 alternatives, the compact body helps make a more portable kit, especially if you stick to smaller prime lenses. Its compact size does mean fewer custom buttons and an uncomfortably small viewfinder; however, these are small sacrifices to make if you need portability but still want the best possible image quality.

The camera's real selling point is its excellent full-frame sensor, which can capture beautiful images—from busy street scenes in European cities to breathtaking landscapes in the mountains of South America or anything in between. That said, the camera's now been succeeded by the Sony α7C II , which boasts a higher-resolution sensor and more advanced video features, but it's more expensive, and the α7C performs on par for photography, so it's a better deal for most travelers.

Best Upper Mid-Range Mirrorless Camera For Travel

OM SYSTEM OM-5 Design Photo

Micro Four Thirds (MFT) models like the OM SYSTEM OM-5 are practically made for travel photography. Though there's a slight trade-off in low light capability with a Four Thirds sensor, you can still get excellent images out of this camera. It also has some neat computational photography features, like a high-resolution composite mode to capture stunningly detailed landscapes or vistas. Plus, the MFT ecosystem has a well-established lineup of lenses, including more compact options that'll make for a more portable overall kit.

On top of that, the OM-5 is weather-sealed and ruggedly built, giving you some peace of mind while traveling. Built-in image stabilization allows you to get clear shots at slower shutter speeds, and the camera has a decent autofocus system, though it falls short of the standard set by brands like Sony and Canon. Battery life is also underwhelming, but this model is still a sure bet if you're looking for a portable and feature-rich camera system at a reasonable price point. If you can find it for cheaper, the older Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III offers near-identical performance, though it uses an older sensor and lacks a few extra features found on the OM-5, like 'Live ND' mode.

Best Mid-Range Mirrorless Camera For Travel

Fujifilm X-T30 II Design Photo

The Fujifilm X-T30 II doesn't offer too many upgrades over the original Fujifilm X-T30 , but if it ain't broke, why fix it? As far as mid-range options go, the X-T30 II is an excellent choice with a super portable body. Like the higher-end Fujifilm X-T5 , it has a sleek retro-inspired design with the same vintage approach of including dedicated exposure dials, giving you more hands-on control over camera settings on the fly.

The camera's APS-C sensor captures excellent image quality straight out of the camera. And while competitors like the  Sony α6400  (or one of its α6x00 series siblings) might have better autofocus, the combination of physical controls and Fuji's film simulation profiles make the Fujifilm a blast to shoot with. Throw in a solid selection of fast prime lenses, and you've got a great camera for travel photography, particularly if you're interested in capturing people or street scenes. That said, unlike the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III mentioned above, there's no IBIS here, and the camera is less versatile for videos and vlogs because of its tilt screen.

Best Budget Mirrorless Camera For Travel

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV Design Photo

If you're on a tighter budget, the small and mighty Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV offers a ton of value for its price. Like its higher-end sibling above, it uses a Micro Four Thirds sensor, making for a more portable overall kit with a budget-friendly price tag. It's a great option for beginners, with simple controls and plenty of creative shooting modes that allow you to play with different photography styles.

Beyond that, this is one of the few cameras at this price point with in-body image stabilization, which can help reduce camera shake in videos or make it easier to get clear handheld shots at slower shutter speeds. That said, this model doesn't have the most reliable autofocus, so if that's important to you, the Canon EOS R50 is a good alternative with a larger APS-C sensor and a more effective AF system. Just be aware that there are fewer lens options for Canon's RF-mount, and lenses are generally bigger.

Best Mirrorless Camera For Travel Vlogging

Sony ZV-E10 Design Photo

If you're more inclined to shoot videos while traveling, consider a vlogging camera like the Sony ZV-E10. It's small and lightweight, so it's easy to toss in a bag and take on the go. While it doesn't have a viewfinder like the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV , its fully articulated screen is perfect for vlogging, allowing you to monitor yourself while shooting. It has vlogging-friendly features like a detachable windscreen to reduce ambient noise, specialized focus modes, and a great battery life.

It's worth noting that the camera doesn't have built-in stabilization, and its e-stabilization feature introduces a distracting wobble effect, so you're better off keeping it disabled and using an optically stabilized lens if you want to keep camera shake to a minimum. Otherwise, the ZV-E10's relatively low price, convenient size, and solid video features make this the ideal mirrorless camera for travel vlogging.

  • Fujifilm X-T4: The Fujifilm X-T4 is the predecessor to the Fujifilm X-T5 and, though it's a tad heavier, is a great choice if you want to save some money, offering many of the same advantages. That said, it uses an older processor and lower-resolution sensor and has a less reliable autofocus system. See our review
  • OM SYSTEM OM-1: The OM SYSTEM OM-1 is a fantastic Micro Four Thirds camera. It's more rugged and better built than the OM SYSTEM OM-5, but it's also pricier and likely overkill for most people. See our review

Jan 26, 2024: Replaced the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III with the OM SYSTEM OM-5, as it's more widely available.

Oct 27, 2023: Added mention of the Sony α7C II to flesh out the market context for the Sony a7C.

Aug 31, 2023: Added the Fujifilm X-T5 as the 'Best Mirrorless Camera For Travel' and shifted the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III down to the upper mid-range spot.

Jul 06, 2023: Renamed the Sony a7C to 'Best Full Frame Mirrorless Camera For Travel' and replaced it with the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III.

May 08, 2023: Verified that recommendations were still relevant and accurate.

Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best mirrorless cameras for travel for most people to buy, according to their needs. We factor in the price, feedback from our visitors, and availability (no cameras that are difficult to find or almost out of stock in the U.S.).

If you'd like to choose for yourself, here's the list of all our interchangeable-lens mirrorless camera reviews, ranked by their suitability for travel photography. Be careful not to get caught up in the details. There is no single perfect camera. Personal taste, preference, and shooting habits will matter more in your selection.

The 12 Best Cameras for Travel Photography in 2024

A Post By: Matt Murray

The best cameras for travel photography

This article was updated in February 2024 with contributions from Matt Murray and Jaymes Dempsey.

Need a top-notch travel camera so you can capture gorgeous photos of your next adventure? You’ve come to the right place.

Picking the best camera for travel photography can be hard work, considering the array of options on the market. Fortunately, I’ve spent decades traveling with dozens of cameras (film, instant, and digital), and below, I share my top 12 favorite models.

Note that I’ve offered a variety of choices, including models for beginners, professionals, and everyone in between – as well as cameras at every price point, from affordable point-and-shoot models all the way up to pro-level full-frame cameras. (In other words: No matter your requirements, we’ve got you covered!)

So if you’re ready to find the perfect camera, then let’s dive right in, starting with our top choice:

1. Sony a7C II

Sony a7C II camera

The original a7C was an excellent travel photography camera in its own right, thanks to the full-frame sensor and compact body – but the Sony a7C II , which debuted in the fall of 2023, is even better than its predecessor.

Sony’s latest full-frame offering is an all-around great camera, but travel photographers in particular will appreciate the extremely compact body combined with the impressive 33 MP full-frame sensor. Expect outstanding low-light capabilities for interior architecture and nighttime street shots as well as amazing autofocus performance when capturing travel portraits and action scenes. Plus, if you like to do a mix of photo and video shooting while exploring distant countries, you’ll love the beautiful 4K/60p video.

The in-body image stabilization ensures sharper handheld shots when working at slower shutter speeds, such as when shooting at restaurants and in churches (where tripod use is often restricted), and the camera also includes access to a tremendous line of travel photography lenses. My biggest gripe is the lower-resolution electronic viewfinder, which is on par with the old a7C as well as the Sony a7 III. But it’s still highly usable, and for serious travel shooters looking for top-notch image quality in a compact body, the a7C II is a stellar pick.

  • Ultra-compact body
  • Excellent 33 MP full-frame sensor
  • Amazing low-light performance
  • In-body image stabilization
  • 2.36M-dot electronic viewfinder
  • Somewhat pricey

2. Nikon Z fc

Best camera travel photography

Looking for solid image quality in a portable, easy-to-use camera? Then check out the Nikon Z fc , which offers plenty of handy features, not to mention a retro-style, streamlined camera body.

The Z fc boasts a high-quality APS-C sensor , so you’ll have no problem capturing beautiful images of landscapes, cities, and any other subject you might encounter on your travels – yet the camera is relatively small and inconspicuous, so you won’t need to worry when photographing in busy areas or carrying the camera for long hours on buses, planes, or trains.

The film-type dials on the top of the camera promise a tactile shooting experience, and the articulating screen makes it easy to capture photos and videos of all kinds. Speaking of video, the Z fc does offer 4K recording, so if you also like to vlog or shoot cinema-type footage while traveling, you’ll be thoroughly impressed by the results.

And did I mention that you can grab the Z fc for under $1000? In other words, it’s a great option for travel photographers on a budget!

  • Great image quality
  • Reasonable price
  • Beautiful design
  • Retro style doesn’t suit all photographers
  • Not as small as point-and-shoot options

3. Fujifilm X-T30 II

Best camera travel photography

The X-T30 II is the latest model in Fujifilm’s midrange APS-C lineup, which successfully packs high-level features into smaller, lighter bodies. The X-T30 II boasts a capable 26-megapixel APS-C sensor (so you won’t struggle to capture printable images even in low-light scenarios), and it can shoot up to a whopping 30 frames per second (so you don’t need to worry about capturing those split-second moments on your travels). Like other Fujifilm cameras, the X-T30 II has face- and eye-detection autofocus, which is a big help for travel portraits and street shots . It also includes Fujifilm’s renowned film simulations .

When you buy into the Fujifilm system, you’ll gain access to dozens of great travel photography lenses ; in fact, the hard part is actually deciding which is right for you! My personal go-to lens for travel photography is the XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 lens . While the X-T30 II doesn’t include in-body image stabilization, the technology is included in several of Fujifilm’s best travel lenses, so as long as you choose your lenses carefully, you won’t have problems handholding indoors or at night.

The X-T30 II offers a uniquely tactile shooting experience thanks to a shutter speed and exposure compensation dial, so if you’re a fan of film-camera ergonomics, this camera will make you feel especially at home. It offers surprisingly great value, too; at the time of writing, you’ll pay just $900 for the camera body (though you will need to buy a lens separately).

  • Excellent lens lineup from the affordable XC lenses to enthusiast and professional XF lenses
  • Stunning image quality with a range of JPEG film simulations
  • Many amazing features
  • Not as robust as Fujifilm’s higher-end models

4. Sony RX100 VII

Best camera travel photography

Sony keeps improving the RX100 line, and the RX100 VII is its best model yet. It may have a smaller sensor than the Nikon Z fc featured above, but the RX100 VII is still a powerful performer. It boasts impressive autofocus, a flip-screen for vlogging and selfies, a mic socket, and a huge zoom range (equivalent to 24-200mm in full-frame terms).

The RX100 VII also borrows tech from Sony’s flagship models, which is why it can shoot up to 20 frames per second with no viewfinder blackout.

If you’re a watersports fan, there’s an added bonus: the RX100 has underwater housing available for surfing, diving, and snorkeling photos. At around $1300 USD, the RX100 VII is on the pricier side, but for serious travel photographers, it’s an excellent choice.

  • Impressive autofocus
  • Handy zoom range
  • Up to 20 frames-per-second shooting
  • Expensive for a compact camera
  • Smaller 1-inch sensor

5. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Best camera travel photography

Olympus may not be the world’s most popular camera brand, but that’s okay – especially if the company continues to develop outstanding models like the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV .

In many ways, the E-M10 Mark IV is an ideal travel photography camera. It offers amazing image quality – thanks to a 20 MP Four-Thirds sensor – yet it’s remarkably compact, so you can literally slip it in your pocket or handbag while traveling and only pull it out as needed. And the lenses are designed with portability in mind, too; a perfect choice for a lightweight setup is the 14-42mm EZ lens , though if you want more range, take a look at the 14-150mm .

Other features include a tilting 3-inch screen (so you can capture low-angle shots as desired), a 2.36M-dot electronic viewfinder (for a DSLR-like shooting experience), and in-body image stabilization (so you can work handheld even in low-light travel scenarios). Plus, the price is incredible; you can grab the E-M10 Mark IV for just $700, and if you want to add a capable kit lens, you’ll pay just $799. How’s that for a bargain travel camera?

  • Compact and light
  • Excellent image quality
  • Good range of lenses
  • Smaller sensor
  • Lower-resolution EVF

6. Sony a7 IV

Best camera travel photography

If you’re an advanced travel photographer in need of a do-everything camera, consider the Sony a7 IV , a full-frame, pro-level model that combines incredible autofocusing, beautiful image quality, and capable video into one reasonably priced package. 

The a7 IV isn’t designed specifically for travel, so while it’s not big , it’s not especially compact, either. But you can comfortably travel with it in a backpack or even around your neck, and for serious shooters, the bevy of top-notch features will make up for the extra bulk.

The a7 IV’s incredible sensor and in-body image stabilization allow you to capture sharp handheld photos indoors (e.g., at museums and churches) and at night. And thanks to the 3.68M-dot electronic viewfinder, you can expect a lifelike shooting experience (along with other cool perks like exposure simulation), while the fully articulating screen makes it easy to create unique low- and high-angle shots of popular landmarks. Finally, the 4K/60p recording capabilities make the camera a top option for hybrid shooters; you can vlog, shoot video, and capture beautiful images all on the same day.

  • Astonishingly good image quality
  • Great video features
  • Fully articulating screen
  • Beautiful EVF
  • Pricey compared to other models on this list
  • Larger than other options

7. Nikon D5600

Best camera travel photography

This next model needs no introduction; Nikon SLRs were favored by many famous travel photographers in the 1980s and beyond. The D5600 is the latest camera in Nikon’s midrange APS-C series, and it’s a perfect choice for beginners and enthusiast photographers alike.

The D5600 boasts Nikon’s excellent ergonomics, and the camera feels reassuringly comfortable in your hand, although it’s not as compact as other models on this list. Image quality is superb and low-light shooting is very impressive. Plus, you get a fully articulating screen (for selfies, vlogging, and tough compositions) along with excellent battery life.

These days, you can purchase a new D5600 for a great price, and it’s even cheaper if you buy it used – so if you’re in need of a reasonably high-level camera with a bargain price tag, it’s definitely a model worth checking out.

  • Good ergonomics and handling
  • Good battery life
  • No 4K video
  • On the larger side

8. Ricoh GR III

Best camera travel photography

Ricoh has been producing super-compact GR cameras since the film heydays of the late 1990s. Those classic point-and-shoot GR models were known for their sharp wide-angle lenses and minimalist controls, and the digital line of GR cameras is no different.

The Ricoh GR III is a perfect mix of portability, optical quality, and impressive features. You get a fixed 28mm full-frame equivalent f/2.8 lens capable of producing great images, and four-stop shake reduction that ensures sharp files even in challenging light.

The GR III is often compared to another camera in this list, the Fujifilm X100V, but I’d encourage you to grab the Ricoh if you prefer a smaller camera with a wider angle of view.

  • Truly pocketable
  • Four-stop shake reduction
  • Fantastic wide-angle lens
  • The straight-out-of-camera JPEGs are not as good as Fujifilm’s
  • Battery life could be better

9. Sony a6700

Sony a6700 for travel photography

It’s easy to see why Sony has grabbed a big share of the mirrorless camera market in recent years: The company produces an impressive range of cameras that appeal to professionals and enthusiasts alike.

The Sony a6700 may not have a full-frame sensor like some of its stablemates, but its compact body and impressive specs make it a strong candidate for the best enthusiast travel photography camera on the market. The a6700 features a 26-megapixel APS-C sensor, outstanding autofocusing for photography and video, and five-axis optical image stabilization. The 180-degree flip screen also makes the a6700 handy for vlogging and selfies.

And speaking of vlogging and video: While the a6700’s predecessor, the a6600, only offered 4K/30p, the a6700 now offers 4K/60p and can even capture 4K/120p video (albeit with a heavy crop) for those epic slow-motion travel clips!

I do think the layout and controls could be improved, but it’s one of the only drawbacks to an otherwise excellent product. Quick note: If you like the look of the a6700 but you’re on a tighter budget, also consider the a6400 . It may not be as impressive as the a6700, but it offers excellent value for money.

  • Small and light
  • Great lens lineup
  • Good image quality
  • Handling and ergonomics could be improved

10. Olympus Tough TG-6

Best camera travel photography

Going on an extreme adventure? The Olympus Tough TG-6 could be the best travel camera for you. This compact point-and-shoot model can withstand a lot of punishment, thanks to its shockproof, dustproof, and crushproof body.

The TG-6 can also work in temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit (-10 degrees Celsius), and it’s fogproof, even during sudden changes in temperature. As I found out on a recent trip to Indonesia – where I was frequently moving from an air-conditioned hotel room to the outside heat and humidity – a foggy camera can be a real inconvenience.

For snorkeling and diving fans, the Tough TG-6 will love being underwater almost as much as you. It’s waterproof up to 49 ft (15 m), and it boasts several nifty underwater modes, including a microscope mode that can focus on objects 0.39 in (1 cm) away.

  • Super tough
  • Only 12 megapixels
  • More suited to adventurers than enthusiast photographers

11. Fujifilm X100V

Best camera travel photography

I’m a huge fan of the Fujifilm X100 series cameras (I’ve owned three of the five models released over the last decade). In fact, many photographers loyal to other brands buy an X100-series camera as their “take-everywhere” body.

The X100V is small and light, yet it boasts an incredible 35mm f/2 fixed lens. Other useful features include its leaf shutter (good for photographing in quieter places like museums and churches ) as well as a built-in neutral density filter (perfect for beautiful long-exposure landscapes and wide-aperture shots in bright light). And of course, you get a range of stunning JPEG film simulations that are ready to go as soon as you turn on the camera.

While the entire X100 series is great, note that the latest model, the X100V, does have an important improvement over its predecessors: it’s weather-resistant. This makes it an excellent choice for photographers who shoot in sand, rain, snow, and more.

  • Excellent lens
  • Built-in ND filter
  • Fujifilm JPEGs
  • Weather-resistant
  • No in-body image stabilization
  • More expensive than its predecessors

12. Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III

Best camera travel photography

The Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III is the third iteration of a popular point-and-shoot series from Canon. It’s sleek, it’s stylish, and it almost looks like a mini DSLR.

Many compact cameras have a tiny sensor – one inch or smaller – but the G1 X Mark III is an exception; it boasts an impressive APS-C sensor, which is one of the biggest sensors offered in such a portable camera. It also features a handy zoom range of 24-72mm and an optical stabilizer for shooting in low light, so you’ll be ready to handle any travel photo scenario you encounter.

The G1 X Mark III is easy to use and produces images with high clarity and outstanding colors. The only downside is the price tag: At around $1000 USD, it may be on the high end for some enthusiast photographers, but for intermediate shooters, it’s certainly worth the extra cash.

  • Large APS-C sensor
  • Compact size
  • Articulating screen
  • Premium price

What is the best camera for travel photography?

Choosing the perfect travel photography camera is a difficult task, one that depends on many factors. Before you hit that “Buy” button, try to determine what you value most, then evaluate the different cameras I’ve discussed based on those criteria.

So what is the best camera for travel photography? Only you can answer that question! Read my list carefully, think about what matters to you – and, if you’re still struggling, go to a camera shop, where you can talk to the staff and hold each camera in your hands.

Then, when you’re ready, grab a camera and hit the road!

Now over to you:

What travel photography camera do you plan to buy? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

The 12 Best Cameras for Travel Photography in 2024

Read more from our Cameras & Equipment category

Matt Murray

Matt Murray is a travel, portrait and stock photographer from Brisbane, Australia. Matt publishes Fujifilm X-series body reviews, lens reviews and photo galleries on his website Matt Loves Fuji . Matt also hosts an analogue photography podcast Matt Loves Cameras featuring reviews of classic film and instant cameras.

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best camera for travel landscape photography

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best camera for travel landscape photography

  • Cameras Landscape

The Best Cameras for Landscape Photography

  • Rajib Mukherjee

Last updated:

  • February 19, 2024
  • See comments

best camera for travel landscape photography

The legendary Ansel Adams had summarized landscape photography as – “the supreme test of the photographer; and often the supreme failure.” I have not found a better one-liner that could summarize what landscape photography means to me and hundreds and thousands of other landscape photographers .

I can understand why the legendary photographer may have said something like this. For one part, photographic equipment was nowhere near as evolved as they are today.

But things have improved since the days of Ansel Adams . Cameras back then didn’t have built-in light meters, and a single exposure measured the knowledge and mettle of a photographer.

mountainous landscape.

We live in a world where the camera does the bulk of the work. Plus, we have the luxury of instant gratification – thanks to the vari-angle touchscreen at the back of the camera. We are truly blessed.

So, in this golden age of photography , how does one choose the best camera for landscape photography ?

How to Choose the Best Camera for Landscape Photography ?

Which are the main parameters that you should pay attention to when choosing a camera for landscape photography ? Let’s quickly go through them.

Sensor Size

An average digital camera has more tech in it than the computer that sent the first rocket to the moon. Many photographers don’t even use all the tech that comes with a camera. So, when we talk about cameras for landscape photography, let’s not talk about features and tech that are not relevant to the subject.

Which camera features are a must-have for beautiful landscape photography ? When we talk of cameras for landscape photography , it is hard to ignore the resolution bit. Most photographers will agree that resolution is the most important aspect when deciding on a camera. But wait, aren’t we forgetting something? What about the size of the sensor?

ocean landscape photography.

Sensor size has a direct relationship to the amount of light that a camera can capture. The larger the chip larger the amount of light that the camera can capture, and vice-versa.

Additionally, the smaller the sensor size smaller the actual field of view that you are going to capture, even with a lens that is designed for a 35mm camera.

Let’s say that you mount a 14-24mm lens on an APS-C camera. This lens is designed to utilize the image circle of a full-frame camera. However, when you mount the lens on an APS-C camera, which has a smaller image circle, only a part of the light that comes through that lens is utilized by the sensor.

Crop Factor

Continuing from the above example, the Nikon D5300 has an APS-C chip. That is much smaller than that of a 35mm chip (such as the Nikon D850). How much smaller? Well, the ratio between the dimensions of the APS-C unit and that of a 35mm (Full-frame) sensor is 1.5.

We also use that to state the crop factor of the camera. I will come to that shortly.

On the other hand, a full-frame chip such as the one inside the Nikon D850 will utilize the entire amount of light that is coming in through the lens.

Crop Factor is an important term that we need to understand. The ratio of the dimensions of the sensor you are comparing to a 35mm chip is the crop factor. When the crop factor kicks in, i.e., when you use a full-frame lens on an APS-C camera, the effective focal length of the lens changes.

To find out what is the effective focal length simply multiply the focal length of the lens with the crop factor. So, a 14-24mm lens becomes a 21-36mm lens when mounted on an APS-C camera with a crop factor of 1.5.

As a landscape photographer, it is important to have an understanding of this concept. Because, when you use a full-frame lens on a crop camera your effective focal length will change and with it the Field of View (FoV) that you capture.

As a landscape photographer, resolution is your best friend. The higher the resolution, the more is the amount of detail that you can capture in the image. The higher resolution has several advantages.

large landscape image.

Most importantly, the higher resolution allows you to print large. Landscape photographs are captured to be showcased on a large platform. Whether that is a large canvas print or a metallic print or a 40-inch blowout on glossy paper that you frame and hang on your favorite wall.

The more the amount of resolution, the higher is the amount of detail and consecutively higher is the possible print size.

The Low-pass Filter

The Optical Low-pass Filter (OLPF) of a camera does the job of countering false colors and moiré in cameras that have a high resolution. The position of the OLPF is directly in front of the imaging chip. It has the effect of reducing the overall image resolution.

Cameras without an OLPF will produce a much sharper image of a landscape scene. In any case, you don’t need OLPF for shooting landscape. It is more necessary for fashion photoshoots , especially close-ups of fine fabric.

That said, higher resolution on large sensor cameras has made it redundant to use the OLPF. A reason why a lot of the high-resolution cameras these days either don’t have OLPF or have the option to switch it off on demand.

Low Light Performance

The best camera for landscape must have good low light performance. Usually, sensor size is a big factor in that regard. Full frame cameras like the Nikon D850 and the Sony Alpha A7R IV have better low light performance.

What exactly is the low light performance indicator for cameras? The first thing is the dynamic range of the camera. I have discussed this below.

low light landscapes.

The second parameter is the low noise threshold that results in as little amount of noise as possible even when shooting at a relatively high ISO.

Dynamic Range

This denotes the number of stops of light between pure black and pure white that a camera can see. Each stop has the effect of doubling the amount of light.

You may ask what is the dynamic range of the human eye? Well, it is about 20 stops. The digital camera does not have the same range as the human eye. But it is very close and getting closer with every update. For example, the Nikon D850 has a dynamic range of nearly 15 stops.

There is a certain amount of importance attached to dynamic range in cameras for landscape photography . The human eye can perceive both the darkest and the brightest parts of a scene at the same time. The camera, on the other hand, can only see 15 stops at the most. That is why it becomes necessary to choose whether you wish to expose for the highlights and crush the blacks or expose for the shadows and blow out the highlights.

With a camera that has a higher range, you have a bit more freedom to work with.

Weather Sealing

Weather sealing is not an absolute must-have requirement. But a weather-sealed camera has a much better chance of surviving in inclement weather. If you are shooting landscape photography you must prepare for bad weather.

stormy and rainy weather landscapes.

Taking a weather check before you leave home is always a smart thing to do. But being prepared for the worst-case scenario is the most prudent thing to do. That includes buying a camera (and a lens) that comes with weather sealing.

Full-frame Mirrorless Cameras

First up is the full-frame mirrorless camera. Mirrorless systems have completely taken over the camera world. I am not discounting DSLRs. But they are dying breed. When it comes to landscape photography everyone prefers to have a compact camera that is light and won’t put us under stress as we hike, and make our way to beautiful locations to photograph. Mirrorless cameras would be my preferred choice for landscape photography .

1. Sony Alpha 1 (Best Camera for Landscape Photography , Overall)

Sony Alpha 1 - Best Landscape Camera Overall.

The Sony Alpha 1 is the latest and the greatest mirrorless camera that has ever rolled out of a Sony assembly line. The 50-megapixel resolution produces stunning images of 8640 x 5760 pixels. It is almost like a medium format camera under the skin of a compact camera. The image quality is stunning. If you want to print big and capture sweeping vistas, panoramic views of a forest, or stunning rugged shorelines in your hometown this is the camera that can get you those.

I like the Alpha 1 for more than just its medium-format-like resolution. It has a 15-stop capturing a stunning amount of detail in both highlights and shadows. Plus, it has a native ISO range of 100-32000.

Best Features of the Sony Alpha 1

  • 50 megapixel full-frame RS sensor
  • BSI sensor architecture for exceptional low light performance
  • Paired with the BIONZ X image processor
  • Built-in 5-axis SteadyShot stabilization for sharp images
  • AF sensitivity from -4 to +20 EV
  • Electronic Viewfinder with 9.4 Million-dots resolution

2. Canon EOS R5

Canon EOS R5 camera.

The Canon EOS R5 is aimed at video enthusiasts, but I feel that the 45-megapixel sensor is way too irresistible to not shoot landscape photos with. The Canon EOS R5 too comes with a 5-axis stabilization system built-in. That means you will get sharp image quality even when you are hand-holding the camera for the most part.

Landscape photographers are least bothered about things like continuous shooting speed, 4K video, or fast autofocusing in their digital cameras. These are best left for photographers who are shooting wildlife and sports, and of course video.

What landscape photographers are looking for though are high resolution, exceptional image quality, and high dynamic range. The EOS R5 offers all that and more.

Best Features of the Canon EOS R5

  • 45 megapixel full-frame sensor
  • Paired with a DIGIC X image processor
  • Built-in 5-axis Sensor-Shift body image stabilization
  • AF sensitivity from -6 to +20 EV
  • Electronic Viewfinder with 5.76 Million-dots resolution

3. Nikon Z7 II

Nikon Z7 II.

Nikon Z7 II is the upgraded version of the successful Z7. There are some upgrades in the new camera that are interesting as well as some that are superficial. For example, the new camera comes with dual image processors. The large full-frame sensor offers a lot of detail. You can print large canvas prints as well as metallic prints with your digital images.

Landscape photographers prefer to shoot with a tripod. But on occasions, they also shoot hand-held for a quick snap. In any case, a camera stays on the shoulder of the user for most parts.

A lightweight mirrorless camera makes more sense than a big bulky DSLR. And that is precisely why a lot of landscape photographers are switching to mirrorless cameras these days.

Best Features of the Z7 II

  • 45.7-megapixel CMOS sensor
  • Dual EXPEED 6 image processors
  • BSI sensor design
  • 493-point Phase Detection AF system
  • 5-axis body image Stabilization
  • Electronic Viewfinder with 3.69 Million-dots resolution

Full-frame DSLR Cameras

Here are my top picks for the best full-frame DSLR cameras for landscape photography . I have consciously tried to limit my options to high-res cameras.

1. Canon EOS 5DS R (Best Camera for Landscape Photography , DSLR)

Canon EOS 5DS R camera for landscape photography.

The Canon 5DS R is a high-resolution camera designed for landscape, fashion, and product shoots. But the high resolution of the camera is equally suitable for landscape projects. At 50-megapixel the resolution of the camera can give medium format cameras a run for their money.

Plus, the effect of the OLPF is canceled out in this camera which makes the images even sharper. You can get a lot of detail. And that means you can also print big.

Best Features of the Canon EOS 5DS R

  • 50.6-megapixel CMOS full-frame sensor
  • Comes with dual DIGIC 6 image processors
  • Low-Pass Filter effect cancellation for sharper images
  • Native ISO range of 100-6400
  • 61-Point High-density reticular AF system
  • Optical viewfinder

2. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR.

The Canon 5D series has always been a huge hit with professionals. Mark IV comes with several refinements and some really interesting features. One of them is the Dual-pixel RAW feature. This feature allows the photographer to make micro-adjustments to a few aspects of an image after it has been taken. Like shifting the focus point ever so slightly, or the bokeh.

When it comes to capturing detail and dynamic range the 5D Mark IV is a superb camera to work with and the results are simply stunning. Sure it does not have the advantage of super-resolution as some of the other cameras do, but it can more than hold its own when it comes to performance.

Best Features of the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

  • 30.4-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor
  • DIGIC 6+ image processor
  • Native ISO range of 100-32000
  • 61-Point high density reticular autofocus system
  • Dual-pixel RAW
  • Optical Viewfinder

3. Nikon D850

best camera for travel landscape photography

How can you ever leave out the Nikon D850 from a list of the best camera for landscape photography ? The D850 is a versatile camera, something that both professionals and enthusiasts will find exciting to work with. The D850 comes with a 45.7-megapixel full-frame BSI sensor. The dynamic range of the camera is good too. Overall image quality is beautiful.

It is pertinent to mention that dynamic range will fall the higher you push the ISO number. This is true with all cameras. Except for the ones that come with dual-native ISO.

Best Features of the Nikon D850

  • 45.7-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor
  • BSI sensor architecture
  • EXPEED 5 image-processing engine
  • Multi-CAM 20K 153-Point autofocus system
  • Native ISO range of 64-25600

4. Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Canon EOS 6D Mark II.

The best thing about the EOS 6D Mark II is that it is one of the lightest full-frame cameras in the business. A lightweight camera is easier to lug throughout the day. Say if you are hiking through the day for your images, the last thing you would want is a heavy camera bogging you down. The lightweight and powerful sensor of the full-frame Canon EOS 6D Mark II makes perfect sense.

A full-frame camera has larger pixel sizes. Resultantly, the camera is likely to respond to low light situations much better than an APS-C camera with the same number of pixels.

Best Features of the Canon EOS 6D Mark II

  • 26.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor
  • DIGIC 7 image processor
  • 45-Point all cross-type autofocus system
  • Native ISO range of 100-40000
  • Dual Pixel CMOS autofocusing
  • Decent weather-resistant build quality

5. Pentax K-1 Mark II

Pentax k1 camera.

The Pentax K-1 Mark II is a full-frame DSLR using a 36.4-megapixel sensor. A large sensor packed with a high number of pixels, plus it does not have the anti-aliasing filter promises a lot of detail in the images. Another excellent thing about the Pentax K-1 Mark II is its superb weather sealing.

I also like the Pixel Shift Resolution II technology (that’s part of the 5-axis Image Stabilization system). This has the effect of making and combining four sequential images to produce a single image with an incredible amount of detail and color information.

Best Features of the Pentax K-1 Mark II

  • 36.4-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor
  • Paired with PRIME IV image processing engine
  • Pixel-shift Resolution II technology
  • Built-in 5-axis body shake reduction technology
  • Weather sealed construction, perfect for landscape photography
  • Native ISO range of 100- 819200

Many of the DSLRs I have listed here come with excellent continuous shooting speed. But continuous shooting speed is not a requirement for shooting landscape photography . Hence I have deliberately refrained from discussing those features.

6. Nikon D810

Nikon d810 for landscape photographers.

Coming to the D810 . This is a slightly dated model. However, the 36.3-megapixel full-frame body without an anti-aliasing filter is still a formidable tool in the hands of a landscape photographer.

A native ISO of 12800, a Multi-CAM 3500FX 51-point autofocus system, and an electronic first curtain shutter make for the other important features of this camera.

Best Features of the Nikon D810

  • 36.3 megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor
  • Paired with EXPEED 4 image processor
  • Multi-CAM 3500FX
  • 51-point autofocusing sensor
  • Native ISO of 12800

Closing Thoughts

The best cameras for landscape photography are a combination of high resolution, excellent wide dynamic range, and decent ISO performance. Several cameras tick all the boxes.

With these parameters, when you add the optional parameters like technology, weight, weather sealing, and availability of compatible OEM lenses, Sony emerges as the best option. That is why I have selected the Sony Alpha 1 as my favorite camera.

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7 Best Canon Lenses for Landscape Photography in 2024

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Landscape photography demands lenses that can capture nature in its vastness and detail. And Canon lenses for landscape photography are among the best. With the right lens, photographers can bring landscapes to life, from sweeping vistas to intricate textures. Several current Canon lenses stand out for their ability to enhance the beauty of the outdoors.

Our top pick, the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM , is praised for its sharpness and versatility. It’s a clear favorite for its clarity and optical quality. We’ve also chosen six other lenses that are ideal for landscape enthusiasts.

Canon EF 24-70mm F/2.8L II USM

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Canon RF 15-35mm F/2.8L IS USM

What Is the Best Canon Lens for Landscape Photography?

Selecting the best Canon lens for landscape photography involves weighing factors like sharpness, focal range, and build quality. Our curated list prioritizes lenses that deliver crisp, wide views. We have also looked at how they perform in outdoor settings. Each of these lenses should help you to capture the grandeur of nature.

  • Versatile 24-70mm zoom range
  • Constant f/2.8 aperture
  • Robust, weather-sealed construction
  • Exceptional sharpness and clarity
  • Fast, accurate autofocus system
  • Ultra-wide 15-35mm for expansive landscapes
  • Built-in 5-stop image stabilization
  • L-series durability and weather sealing
  • Consistent f/2.8 aperture for low light
  • Fast, quiet Nano USM autofocus
  • Wide 16-35mm range for dynamic compositions
  • L-series optics ensure professional image quality
  • Constant f/2.8 for consistent low-light performance
  • Durable build with comprehensive weather sealing
  • Precise manual focus with full-time override

Canon RF 28-70mm F/2L USM

  • Bright f/2 aperture across entire zoom range
  • Versatile 28-70mm for diverse shooting scenarios
  • Superior L-series image quality and sharpness
  • Robust build with professional-grade durability
  • Fast USM autofocus with precision control

Product

  • Ultra-wide 14-24mm perfect for vast landscapes
  • Art series ensures top-tier image quality
  • Constant f/2.8 aperture for consistent exposure
  • Durable build with dust and splash resistance
  • Hyper Sonic Motor for fast, silent focusing

Product

  • Telephoto 70-200mm range for versatile framing
  • f/2.8 aperture for excellent low-light performance
  • 3.5 stops Image Stabilization for sharp images
  • L-series build quality with weather sealing
  • Fast, silent autofocus with Ultrasonic Motor

Product

  • Ultra-wide 14mm for expansive landscape shots
  • Enhanced MK2 with weather sealing
  • Bright f/2.8 aperture for astrophotography
  • Improved focus lock for creative control
  • Manual focus for precise adjustments

Product

Our Favorite Canon Lens for Landscape Photography

Let’s take a closer look at these Canon lenses, each offering unique features to suit a range of landscape photography needs. From ultra-wide angles to telephoto zooms, our selection caters to diverse shooting styles and scenarios. Discover the perfect lens to elevate your landscape imagery. We have a mixture of EF lenses for DSLRs, and RF for Canon’s mirrorless range.

1. Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM

There is almost no distortion at 24mm. But there is noticeable pincushion distortion from 35-70mm. This distortion is manageable with post-processing. The lens’s optics include Super Ultra-low Dispersion and Ultra-low Dispersion elements, effectively reducing chromatic aberration and ensuring clear images. Its anti-reflective coatings are crucial for minimizing glare and improving contrast in bright outdoor conditions. Significantly, there’s almost no lateral color fringing. 

Weighing 805 g, the EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM is relatively light for its class, making it a good option for photographers who travel or hike to their shooting locations. While it lacks image stabilization, this is less of an issue for landscapes. You’ll most likely be using a tripod to achieve the sharpest images at small apertures. The lens’s closest focusing distance of 0.38m is adequate for including foreground interest, adding depth to landscape compositions.

2. Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM

With a weight of 840 grams, it’s manageable for photographers on the move, fitting comfortably in a bag for hikes or travel. The added benefit of image stabilization is helpful for handheld shots in low light. Although for most landscape work, a tripod is your go-to for stability. The minimum focusing distance of 0.28 meters allows for creative compositions. This allows for some creativity with close detail as well as distant elements.

The RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM’s build is robust. Weather sealing lets you shoot confidently in less-than-ideal conditions. While some wide-angle lenses struggle with distortion, this lens keeps it in check. Canon’s cameras correct it automatically, making it easier to get those straight horizon lines right out of the camera. The third control ring is programmable, adding a layer of convenience and customizability. Overall, this lens is a good option for those looking to capture landscapes with clarity, contrast, and a broad perspective.

3. Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM

This lens handles chromatic aberration well, thanks to its low dispersion elements. Fine details in landscapes are not marred by color fringing. The anti-reflective coatings are effective at reducing glare, which is important when shooting in bright outdoor conditions. At 790 grams, the lens is relatively easy to carry, which is appreciated during long treks into nature.

The EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM lacks image stabilization. This is no great concern for landscapes where tripods are commonly used, or for such a wide-angle lens. The closest focusing distance of 0.28 meters is another attractive feature. Although it’s pretty big for a 16-35mm zoom, the lens remains a popular choice for its optical quality and durable build.

4. Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM

This lens controls chromatic aberration effectively, ensuring that landscapes are free from color fringing. The coatings on the lens elements reduce reflections and improve contrast, beneficial when shooting in bright or backlit conditions. The lack of image stabilization is less of an issue for landscape work, where tripods are commonly used.

The RF 28-70mm f/2L USM’s build quality is solid, with weather sealing that protects it in harsh outdoor environments. This makes it a reliable option for landscape photographers who demand high optical performance and durability. More than anything else, this lens is remarkable for its pin sharp images, even when stopped wide open.

5. Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG HSM | A for Canon EF

The lens’s sharpness is a mixed bag, but overall impressive. Sharpness at the center is about as good as you’ll find anywhere. And this is true for all apertures and focal lengths. Edge sharpness is also excellent. It is between those two areas where the Sigma suffers from some reduced sharpness. Thses With minimal distortion, it preserves the natural lines of scenery, from rocky outcrops to forest horizons.

Weighing 1150 grams, the lens is relatively heavy. But its build quality justifies the weight, offering durability for outdoor use. The anti-reflective coatings are effective in reducing glare, which is particularly important when shooting in bright or backlit conditions. While the lack of image stabilization might concern some, it’s less relevant for landscapes where tripods are commonly used. The bulbous front element means there’s no facility for using filters. This is a very capable lens, that offers excellent value for money for landscape photography.

6. Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM

This lens is relatively heavy, but its build quality is reassuring for outdoor use. The coatings on the lens elements effectively manage reflections and enhance contrast, important for maintaining the vibrancy of landscape scenes. The autofocus has different modes. So you can limit the distance it searches. This is helpful if you’re focused on a distant object, and don’t want it to hunt closer to the camera. The beautiful bokeh from this lens is much prized by wedding photographers. But it will find its uses in landscape work as well.

7. Samyang 14mm f/2.8 MK2 for Canon EF

That being said, it can produce some striking images, that you only get with an ultra-wide lens. This Samyang is a rectilinear lens. That means that, unlike a fish-eye lens, it tries to correct barrel distortion. This is well-suited to landscape photography. 

Weighing less than 500 grams, the Samyang 14mm f/2.8 MK2 is relatively light. That’s a consideration for photographers who venture into the wilderness. Its updated weather sealing provides protection against the elements. This is a manual focus lens, which is part of the reason for its low price. It should be no problem for a landscape photographer. After all, precise slow focusing is more important for this genre.

The fast f/2.8 is ideal for low-light conditions. Golden hour photography, or astrophotography, are both ideal of such a fast lens. The Samyang 14mm f/2.8 MK2 is not the sharpest lens you can buy. But you won’t find a better-value introduction to the wonderful world of ultra-wide landscape photography.

Conclusion: The Best Canon Lenses for Landscape Photography

Selecting the right Canon lenses for landscape photography can make a significant difference in capturing the beauty and vastness of the natural world. The seven lenses reviewed offer a range of focal lengths, apertures, and features. Each suits different landscape scenarios, from wide, sweeping vistas to detailed close-ups. Each lens brings its unique strengths to the table, whether it’s edge-to-edge sharpness, minimal distortion, or robust build quality for outdoor shooting.

Our top choice, the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM , stands out for its versatility and exceptional sharpness. It’s the go-to lens for high-quality images across a variety of landscapes. By happy coincidence, it is also one of the most-loved general purpose zooms for Canon EF cameras. For photographers with different needs or preferences, six other lenses provide options to fit any shooting style or situation. Whether you’re trekking into the wilderness or capturing urban skylines, there’s a Canon lens ready to bring your vision to life.

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best camera for travel landscape photography

Russian Far East: top 10 experiences

Aug 10, 2018 • 6 min read

The limestone Lena Pillars are a popular cruise trip from Yakutsk © Vicky Ivanova / Shutterstock

The limestone Lena Pillars are a popular cruise trip from Yakutsk © Vicky Ivanova / Shutterstock

The Russian Far East has a mystique that’s been luring travellers for generations. With the volcanoes and geysers of Kamchatka, ancient stone pillars on the Lena River and some of the world’s coldest and remotest human settlements, as well as the cosmopolitan cities of Vladivostok and Khabarovsk, the region has something for everyone. Russia’s poignant past is present here too, from the BAM (Baikal-Amur Mainline) railway to the infamous Kolyma Highway that runs to Magadan, the most notorious outpost of the Far Eastern Gulag system.

Night falls over the suspension bridge across the Golden Horn Bay in Vladivostok © Ovchinnikova Irina / Shutterstock

Vladivostok

The ‘Master of the East’, a hip, dynamic city with an impressive setting in the Golden Horn Bay, Vladivostok is the unofficial capital of the Russian Far East and a cultural heavyweight in its own right. St Petersburg’s renowned Mariinsky Theatre has inaugurated the Primorsky Stage in the city in recent years, joining the new Hermitage Vladivostok branch and the stellar Zarya Centre for Contemporary Art as the city’s premier cultural attractions. Meanwhile, the S-56 Submarine , Fort No 7 and the Vladivostok Fortress Museum pay homage to the city’s background as Russia’s most important eastern naval base. Vladivostok’s dining scene is second only to Moscow and St Petersburg, and numerous cocktail bars and pubs attract night owls. If the frenetic pace is a little overwhelming, you can always escape to the beaches on Russky Island and Popov Island .

Right in the heart of the legendary Kamchatka peninsula, the little town of Esso is the jumping-off spot for some terrific hiking, soaking in the istochniki (hot springs) and rafting on the nearby Bystraya River. Charming  izbas (wooden cottages) sit in a pine-scented valley, surrounded by forested mountains. A well-marked network of hiking trails threads its way through the surrounding Bystrinsky Nature Park, ranging in difficulty and in length – the shortest is 2km, the longest 42km.

One of Kamchatka’s highlights, the steaming Valley of Geysers can be accessed only by helicopter © Alla / Shutterstock

Valley of Geysers, Kamchatka

Accessible only by a helicopter tour from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, the smoking Dolina Geyzerov is the star attraction of  Kamchatka – the volcano- and geyser-studded peninsula that has the most dramatic, volatile topography in all of Russia. This 8km-long valley, bisected by the Geysernaya River, is dotted with several dozen geysers that sporadically blast steam, mud and water towards the sky. Some of the more colourful ones can be admired while strolling along a specially made boardwalk.

The remote capital of the Sakha Republic, Yakutsk is both the world’s coldest city and a marvel of Soviet engineering, built entirely on permafrost. Its tangle of overground pipes, carrying water and gas, is a peculiar sight, but Yakutsk is a surprisingly cosmopolitan place despite its isolation. A visit to the quirky  Permafrost Kingdom is particularly worthwhile, with its never-melting sculptures of pagan gods and mythological characters, while the National Art Museum introduces you to the mammoth tusk carvings and paintings by Sakha artists. The best places to try Sakha delicacies such as indigirka (raw, frozen fish), reindeer and zherebyatiny (colt fillet) are Chochur Muran and Makhtal restaurants.

Features - The signage of BAM railway, a marvel of engineering and an alternative to the Trans-Siberian Railway © Philip Lee Harvey / Lonely Planet

Riding the BAM railway

Stretching for some 4324km from Severobaikalsk (on the northern shores of Lake Baikal) to the Sea of Okhotsk, the BAM (Baikal-Amur Mainline) is a triumph of railway engineering (and convict labour) and the less-taken alternative to the Trans-Siberian Railway. With its bridges spanning the mighty Lena and Amur rivers, its tunnels blasted through kilometres of sheer rock, and its tracks running through dense spruce forest and taiga, riding the BAM is a wonderful way to get to know ordinary Russians. You might find yourself sharing a beer or hot tea and heaped spoons of caviar with miners or lumberjacks, who’ll be intensely curious about you. It’s worth disembarking in Tynda, where travel writer Dervla Murphy got stuck while writing Through Siberia by Accident, to visit the BAM Museum, and in Komsomolsk-na-Amure, to check out the grand Soviet-era mosaics and the riverside beach.

Some 650km east of Yakutsk, the tiny reindeer and silver fox breeding station of Oymyakon (population around 500) is the coldest permanently inhabited place on Earth, with temperatures in the nearby valleys dropping as low as -82°C. Various travel agencies in Yakutsk, including Visit Yakutia , organise week-long tours to Oymyakon to attend the annual Pole of Cold Festival in late March, featuring reindeer races, outdoor concerts and other festivities.

The golden domes of the Transfiguration Cathedral in Khabarovsk are dazzling in the winter sunset © Konstantin Baidin / Shutterstock

Whether you come here in winter for the ice sculptures, or in summer for the lively nightlife and the Amur River beach, Khabarovsk is a breath of fresh air, especially if you’ve spent days cooped up on the train before getting here. Its wide boulevards are lined with stately, tsarist-era buildings (spot the Far Eastern State Research Library and the Tsentralny Gastronom), and there are numerous green walkways for strolling around the city, including those on Amursky bul and Ussuriysky bul. The burgeoning dining scene’s highlights are Georgian cuisine at Satsivi  and fusion at Farsh ; some good bars are dotted around the city centre, including the hipster Brozbar , with a good range of craft beer.

Magadan and Kolyma Highway

Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and hemmed in by the Sea of Okhotsk, Magadan is a surprisingly pleasant city, given its dark past. Described as the ‘pole of cold and cruelty’ in Solzhenitsyn’s Gulag Archipelago, it was the most notorious of the Stalinist forced labour camps from the 1930s to mid-1950s. The harsh sub-Arctic climate and dreadful work conditions are believed to have killed over a million prisoners in the Kolyma region, commemorated by the giant Mask of Sorrow monument on a hillside above Magadan, as well as at the Magadan Regional Museum . You can get here by air, or via the Russian Far East’s most ambitious road trip – a three- or four-day journey from Yakutsk by 6WD vehicle or truck along the Kolyma Highway, aka the ‘road of bones’, built on the backs of countless Gulag labourers.

The limestone Lena Pillars in the Sakha Republic are a popular cruise trip from Yakutsk © Vicky Ivanova / Shutterstock

Lena Pillars

The Russian Far East’s most popular cruise is the two-day jaunt from Yakutsk to the Lenskie Stolby (Lena Pillars) along the mighty Lena River. Resembling a petrified forest, the 80km-long, 35-million-year-old limestone pillars reach for the sky along the riverbank – a startling sight after you’ve spent many hours floating through impenetrable spruce forest. Lena Tur Flot  runs 36- and 46-hour cruises here aboard its two comfy cruise ships; you’ll even get to see a shaman ceremony.

Blagoveshchensk

A remote Russian outpost since 1644, this frontier town faces its rather more modern Chinese neighbour, Heihe, across the Amur River. However, it’s worth making the detour 110km south of the main Trans-Siberian Railway line to Blagoveshchensk to check out the charming tsarist-era architecture that dots the town centre; another highlight is the extensive  Amur Regional Museum . Blagoveshchensk is also one of the easiest places in Russia from which to enter China (though you’ll need to organise your visa in advance).

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10 Essential Landscape Photography Tips All Photographers Should Know

L andscape photography is one of the most popular forms of photography; almost everyone with a camera or smartphone has taken a shot of a mountain, beach, or waterfall at some point. But while this genre seems simple to master, the reality is very different.

When you begin as a landscape photographer, you'll often take a picture of what's in front of you without overthinking. After all, there are only so many ways to make a mountain look interesting, right?

If you want to improve your skills beyond the casual phase, you must focus more on the stories in your images. And if you're stuck for ideas, don't worry; we've listed some surefire landscape photography tips below. Let's jump right in!

1. Use a Prime Lens

When you first get a new camera, you'll typically receive a kit lens as part of the package. These lenses are good for getting comfortable with taking pictures, but because you can zoom in and out, you might find that there are too many choices. As a result, you might spend more time faffing with your camera than focusing on the scene in front of you.

When using a prime lens , you can't zoom in or out, so you'll focus more on the composition. Prime lenses are also better suited for landscape photography because they can help you hone in on and only capture what you want, and they also tend to be sharper than zoom lenses.

If you're struggling to pack your camera bag for a hiking trip, understanding the essential items for travel photography is a helpful starting point.

2. Keep It Simple

A common mistake that beginner photographers make is thinking that including more in the composition is better. However, this isn't the case; if there's too much going on, you'll distract the viewer.

Landscape photography—and photography in general—is more about getting rid of what you don't want. Take a moment to think about the story you want your photo to tell. For example, a single cabin surrounded by vast wilderness might express feelings of isolation.

By keeping your landscape photography simple and making use of negative space, the viewer will instantly know what you're trying to say through your art. As a result, your picture will become more memorable to them.

3. Consider the Time of Day

Landscape photography is largely about advanced planning, including thinking about the time of day you're going to shoot. Lighting will completely change the mood of your photo, and taking pictures at the wrong time of day can result in unwanted shadows or glare.

If you're visiting somewhere that is popular with tourists, it's also worth choosing a time of day when you can avoid them. That way, you can take your sweet time with setting up and curating the perfect composition—plus, you won't need to jostle through crowds of people to get the same shot as everyone else.

4. Don't Discount "Bad Weather"

In many cases, "bad" weather is often the best time to go out and do some landscape photography. These conditions can make your images more dramatic, and there's the bonus of being on your own. Learning how to take beautiful photos in the winter is especially rewarding, too.

Of course, taking photos in typically non-ideal weather conditions requires some common sense; don't go if you're putting your life in danger, and make sure that you protect your camera equipment. Weather-sealed bodies and lenses are a good idea, as well as rain covers.

5. Include People or Wildlife in Your Images

The problem with many landscapes is that, while beautiful, the same picture has been taken far too many times.

Having said that, popular locations still offer plenty of unique photography opportunities. One of the easiest ways to add life to your landscape photography is by including people or wildlife. Doing so will instantly give your picture more personality—as long as you don't do generic poses (yellow jackets under waterfalls in Iceland, we're looking at you!).

If you're stuck for ideas, you can always try these ways to take unique photos in popular tourist destinations .

6. Think Outside the Box

One of the best landscape photography tips we can give you is to think a little differently. If you stand in the same position and take your photo at the same angle and time of day as everyone else, you're going to get average results.

Before you head out and start taking pictures, think about the location and what might be worth including in your images. If you can, try visiting beforehand to do some location scouting. That way, you'll find yourself less likely to take pictures just for the sake of it or capture what everyone else is already capturing.

7. Take In Your Surroundings

Many beginners will go somewhere just to take a few pictures and move on to the next spot. By doing this, they dramatically limit the quality of what they could produce.

As with any skill, rushing is going to get you mediocre results. Photography is no different, and quality is much more important than quantity. So before you start snapping away, spend some time walking around and simply sitting or standing there, and really soak in what's around you.

You'll become more familiar with your surroundings and notice what others don't, which will enable you to tell a more meaningful story.

8. Stabilize Your Camera

Depending on where you are, landscape photography will pose several challenges. For example, you might stand on uneven ground or have to deal with windy weather. These, and many other things, can cause your camera to shake, which will result in blurry images—though there could also be other reasons why your photos are blurry .

If you're shooting in any situation where you need a slower shutter speed, you need to keep your camera as still as possible. You can do this by placing it on an even surface or keeping it as close to your body as possible. The easiest way, however, is to take a tripod with you.

9. Don't Edit Too Soon

It's easy to find yourself spending all day outside and filling up your camera's memory card before going home and editing everything straight away. However, importing everything into an editing program without waiting might lead to subpar editing. This is because you likely haven't yet detached from the emotions you associate with the images.

I partially did this in the beginning because I had so many photos to edit, but I now can go a few weeks—if not months—before I begin editing photos from previous adventures. But besides managing your photography workflow better, you can also adopt more of a rational approach to your editing when you wait.

10. Save Landscape Locations in Google Maps Beforehand

One unique challenge of landscape photography is that navigating to interesting photo spots can sometimes be quite challenging. Although you might not have access to the internet on some photoshoots, it's a good idea to save some locations that you think would be cool to photograph before you head out.

Saving locations in Google Maps is very easy. The simplest way to do so is on a smartphone or tablet.

  • Open Google Maps.
  • Tap on a location that you think would be interesting to photograph.
  • Scroll along until you see the Save option.
  • Choose or create a list to save your location to. You can also type anything you need to remember in the text box titled Need to remember anything about this place?
  • Tap Done when finished.
  • Use a prime lens for sharper and more focused compositions in landscape photography, and to avoid getting distracted by too many zoom options.
  • Keep your compositions simple and focus on the story you want to tell, using negative space to make your images more memorable.
  • Consider the time of day for shooting to capture the right lighting and avoid unwanted shadows or glare, and choose less crowded times to have more freedom in setting up your shots.

Landscape Photography Is Not as Easy as You'd Think

Progressing beyond the beginner phase in landscape photography is a little trickier than people think. Grabbing unique shots is crucial for standing out, especially when most photos you see on social media are carbon copies of each other. And being unique requires a lot of effort and thinking.

We've only covered the basics, but these simple landscape photography tips will help you up your game with your next photoshoot. What are you waiting for?

10 Essential Landscape Photography Tips All Photographers Should Know

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    The Nikon D850 is our pick as the best camera for landscape photos. If you want a high-resolution camera with great autofocus and amazing video abilities, look no further! Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Camera For Landscape Photography Nikon D850 Shop 4 Offers Pentax K-1 Mark II Shop 3 Offers Canon EOS 80D Shop 3 Offers

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    Best landscape camera for travel: Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III Best landscape camera on a budget: Fujifilm X-T30

  13. The 6 Best Travel Cameras

    Action Video. 5.9. Body Type SLR-Style. Mirrorless Yes. Sensor Size 4/3 (MFT) See all our test results. The OM SYSTEM OM-5 is one of the best travel cameras you can get. As part of the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) system, it offers a good combination of portability, ruggedness, and image quality. Though it isn't as heavy-duty as higher-end models ...

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    Canon EOS 5DS R DSLR Camera. For Nikon shooters, the D810 remains the company's high-resolution body of choice, and is characterized by an FX-format 36.3MP CMOS sensor whose design omits the optical low-pass filter entirely for notable sharpness and resolution. An electronic front-curtain shutter reduces the risk of mirror slap for maintained ...

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    The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is our choice as the best affordable camera for landscape photography. It produces excellent images that bring out the best of your landscapes. It has helpful photography features for beginners. And it nails the affordability brief. Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Affordable Camera For Landscape Photography

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    1. Canon EOS 5DS R (Best Camera for Landscape Photography, DSLR) The Canon 5DS R is a high-resolution camera designed for landscape, fashion, and product shoots. But the high resolution of the camera is equally suitable for landscape projects. At 50-megapixel the resolution of the camera can give medium format cameras a run for their money.

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    The Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM is a versatile lens, ideal for landscape photography. Its focal length range allows photographers to capture wide expanses and zoom in for detailed shots. The lens's sharpness is exceptional, particularly at the center across all focal lengths.Even the widest aperture of f/2.8 shouldn't disappoint.

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    giuliogroebert on February 25, 2024: "#camera #cameragear #photography #photographer #photographers #sonyalpha #cameras #photooftheday #photographylovers #landscapephotography #landscapephotographer #travelphotography #landschaftsfotografie #fotograf #fotografie #naturephotography #lalala #money Best money waste ever ‍ … | more beautiful places @giuliogroebert | exploring the world w ...

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    Lena Pillars. The Russian Far East's most popular cruise is the two-day jaunt from Yakutsk to the Lenskie Stolby (Lena Pillars) along the mighty Lena River. Resembling a petrified forest, the 80km-long, 35-million-year-old limestone pillars reach for the sky along the riverbank - a startling sight after you've spent many hours floating ...

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    Find photographers near me on Houzz Before you hire a photographer in Khabarovsk, Khabarovsk Krai, browse through our network of over 5 local photographers. Read through customer reviews, check out their past projects and then request a quote from the best photographers near you. Finding photographers in my area is easy on Houzz.

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