12 Best Cameras for Car Photography in 2023

This is a guide covering the best cameras for car photography. Car photography is a lot of fun, especially if you love both cars and photography!

It can also be a bit intimidating at first because you want to capture the beauty of these cars exactly how you see it in real life. Well, a big part of doing that also depends on your gear such as the camera you choose.

In a hurry? Here’s the quick rundown:

• ⭐ Best Overall Camera for Car Photography
  • Nikon D850

• 🚗 Best High-Resolution Camera for Detailed Car Photography
  • Nikon D850
  • Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
  • Canon EOS R5

• 💨 Best Camera for High-Speed Action Car Photography
  • Canon EOS 7D Mark II
  • Nikon D750
  • Canon EOS 90D

• 📹 Best Camera for Video Recording Cars in Motion
  • Panasonic LUMIX G7KS
  • Canon EOS R5
  • Fujifilm X-T4

• 🚙 Best Enthusiast-Level Camera for Car Photography
  • Canon EOS 6D Mark II

• 💸 Best Budget Camera for Car Photography
  • Nikon D3500

How to Choose the Best Camera for Car Photography?

Resolution: A camera with a high-resolution sensor will allow you to capture fine details of the car.

Autofocus: A camera with fast and accurate autofocus is important for capturing sharp images of a moving car.

Continuous shooting: A camera with high-speed continuous shooting will allow you to capture multiple images in quick succession, which can be useful for capturing action shots of a car.

Aperture: A camera with a wide aperture (low f-stop number) will allow you to shoot in low light and create a shallow depth of field.

Video: If you plan on capturing video footage of the car, look for a camera that can shoot 4K or Full HD video, and has good autofocus capabilities when shooting video.

Brand: Some brands like Nikon, Canon, and Panasonic have a good range of cameras that are well-suited for car photography.

Budget: Decide on a budget and look for cameras that meet your needs within that budget.

Lenses: Make sure that the camera you choose is compatible with the lenses you plan on using. Some cameras have a crop factor that affects the focal length, and this could affect the final outcome.

12 Best Cameras for Car Photography

1. Nikon D850

Specifications:

• Body: Mid-size SLR
• Sensor size: Full frame
• Lens mount: Nikon F
• Max resolution 8256 x 5504
• Image ratio: 1:1, 5:4, 3:2, 16:9
• ISO: Auto, 64-25600 (expands to 32-102400)
• Image stabilization: No
• Touch screen: Yes
• USB: USB 3.0 (5 GBit/sec)
• USB charging: No
• HDMI: Yes (mini HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (wired, wireless, smartphone)
• Video resolutions:
  • 1280 x 720
  • 1920 x 1080
  • 3840 x 2160 (4K)

The Nikon D850 FX-Format is a top-of-the-line car photography camera that can meet the standards of professional photographers.

We considered it as the best overall camera on our list given the quality of images that it can produce, its versatility, not to mention its user-friendly operations.

The Nikon D850 FX-Format DSLR comes in with a 45.7MP resolution powered by BSI full-frame image sensor with no optical low pass filter.

It also comes in handy whether you are capturing cars on display or cars that are speeding around the road or race track with its 9fps continuous photo/video ability. It is also a favorite among professional videographers given its 8K capability.

Using the Nikon D850 FX-Format DSLR is quite easy with its tilting touchscreen allowing the user to adjust the camera according to his or her preference.

Even with some of the best cameras for car photography on our list, it is tough to compete against the D850 FX-Format DSLR.

Also, check out the best lenses for the Nikon D850.

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2. Panasonic LUMIX G7KS

Specifications:

• Body: SLR-style mirrorless
• Sensor size: Four thirds
• Lens mount: Micro four thirds
• Max resolution: 4592 x 3448
• Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
• ISO: Auto, 160, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200, 6400, 12800, 25600
• Image stabilization: No
• Manual focus: Yes
• Touch screen: Yes
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (microHDMI TypeD)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Video resolutions:
  • 640 x 480
  • 1280 x 720
  • 1920 x 1080
  • 3840 x 2160 (4K)

So you still want to have a good camera for car photography but you don’t have a large budget? If this is the case, you might want to give the Panasonic Lumix G7KS 4K Mirrorless camera a chance.

We consider it the best pick for budget-strapped car photography enthusiasts. The Panasonic Lumix G7KS 4K Mirrorless Camera brings in decent specs and a lightweight body to its users.

It’s tough to compete against the Panasonic Lumix G7KS 4K camera in the weight department given how mirrorless cameras are designed.

It is also a performance-savvy camera with a 16MP sensor that brings good results on your images. Though it’s not the best in terms of performance, this can be a good starter camera for car photography hobbyists and even aspiring pro photographers.

You can even take 4K videos with this small camera. But what made us convinced that it’s a good choice even for aspiring pros is that it comes in with intuitive controls that allow you to get the right aperture and shutter speed.

What’s not to like? It is still not going to meet the needs of professional car photographers given the quality of images that it produces.

On top of that, you also have to deal with fewer lens selections compared to DSLRs.

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3. Nikon D750

Specifications:

• Body: Mid-size SLR
• Image ratio: 3:2
• Sensor size: full frame
• Lens mount: Nikon F
• ISO: Auto, 100-12800, expandable to 50-51200
• Image stabilization: No
• Touch screen: No
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (mini-HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (Wired or wireless)
• Video resolutions:
  • 1280 x 720
  • 1920 x 1080

The Nikon D750 FX Formal DSLR is one of the top DLSRs that you could get if you are looking to do car photography for a living. It comes in with powerful specs and a great interface meant for serious photographers.

Equipped with a 24.3MP resolution and a powerful ISO that can even be expanded to 50-51200, this DSLR allows you to photograph cars in different situations.

You get superb quality images with vibrant colors expected from a top Nikon DSLR. It can also connect on WiFi allowing users to transfer the photos to your device fast.

On top of that, it captures 65fps allowing car photographers to not miss any moment when they are capturing cars on the road or the race track.

The D750 FX-format DSLR is a near-perfect pick for our list of best cameras for car photography. Some minor issues that you should look into include the saturation and contrast being a little too high for some users.

Also, its auto and incandescent white balance is a bit too warm when used in tungsten lighting.

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4. Canon EOS 7D Mark II

Specifications:

• Body: Mid-size SLR
• Max resolution: 5472 x 3648
• Image ratio: 3:2, 16:9
• Sensor size: APS-C
• ISO: Auto, ISO 100-16000 (expandable to 51200)
• Image stabilization: No
• Manual focus: Yes
• Lens mount: Canon EF/EF-S
• Touch screen: No
• USB: USB 3.0 (5 GBit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (mini-HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Remote control: Yes (wired or wireless)
• Video resolutions:
  • 640 x 480
  • 1280 x 720
  • 1920 x 1080

If you prefer Canon over Nikon DLSRs, then you should make the Canon EOS 7D Mark II on top of your list.

This model comes in with specs including a 20.2MP CMOS sensor that can produce some of the best photos with stunning details and vibrant colors.

Though it is not as fast as other Nikon DSLRs that we’ve already featured, it still has an above-average burst speed at 10 fps. And also, it can perform well even in low-light conditions with an ISO of 100-16000.

Finding the subject isn’t a concern with the EOS 7D Mark II thanks to its 65-point all-cross-type AF system.

The downside to this is that it takes a while before you can figure out its configuration. Plus, battery life isn’t the best, especially for a professional DSLR camera.

And lastly, though it comes with a GPS, there is no built-in WiFi.

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5. Nikon D3500

Specifications:

• Body: Compact SLR
• Max resolution: 6000 x 4000
• Image ratio: 3:2
• Sensor size: APS-C
• ISO: Auto, 100-25600
• Image stabilization: No
• Manual focus: Yes
• Lens Mount: Nikon F
• Touch screen: No
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• USB charging: No
• HDMI: Yes (mini-HDMI)
• Microphone port: No
• Headphone port: No
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (via smartphone)
• Video resolutions:
  • 1280 x 720
  • 1920 x 1080

Nikon D3500 is a candidate for hobbyists who are looking to take great car photos without breaking the bank.

It can be a good camera for those who are serious about their car photography as it comes with a powerful 24.2MP DX-Format CMOS sensor paired with an EXPEED 4 image processor. Its ISO range isn’t bad as well as it comes with ISO 100-25600 range perfect even for low-light situations.

You can also connect via SnapBridge Bluetooth making it easier to send photos once you are done.

It’s a versatile option even if you are going to compare it with the rest of the other best cameras for car photography on our list. However, one thing that you should consider before going for the D3500 is its out-dated 11-point AF.

When tested on moving cars, its AF system feels mediocre. You also have no dedicated ISO button on your camera making it a bit difficult to configure your images when you’re in a hurry.

Also, check out the best lenses for the Nikon D3500.

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6. Canon EOS 90D

Specifications:

• Body: Mid-size SLR
• Max resolution: 6960 x 4640
• Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
• Sensor size: APS-C
• ISO: Auto, 100-25600 (expands to 51200)
• Image stabilization: No
• Lens mount: Canon EF/EF-S
• Touch screen: Yes
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (Wired , wireless or smartphone)
• Video resolutions:
  • 1920 x 1080
  • 3840 x 2160 (4K)

The Canon EOS 90D is a great pick for most people who love to travel a lot. If you’re the type who wants a robust camera for your passion for car photography, then you might find it a handy choice.

Upon looking at the exterior of this camera, you’ll immediately notice its weather-sealed construction allowing users to use it even if it’s raining.

As for the specs, it has an amazing 32.5MP CMOS APS-C sensor with a continuous capturing capability of up to 10fps with minimal to no lag time.

These are things that make it a good choice not only for car photography but even for different situations. You even have a 4K functionality in case you want to take videos.

As for the AF system, its 45-point all cross-type AF system stands out capturing the subject accurately.

Despite the powerful specs, some users find the single card slot to be frustrating as you will have to switch once your memory card’s full.

Also, check out the best lenses for the Canon 90D.

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7. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

Specifications:

• Body: Mid-size SLR
• Max resolution: 6720 x 4480
• Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
• Sensor size: Full frame
• ISO: Auto, 100-32000 (expands to 50-102400)
• Image stabilization: No
• Lens mount: Canon EF
• Touch screen: Yes
• USB: USB 3.0 (5 GBit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (mini-HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (wired, wireless, or smartphone)
• Video resolutions:
  • 1280 x 720
  • 1920 x 1080
  • 4090 x 2160 (4K)

EOS 5D Mark IV can be reserved for people who are serious about car photography. This camera comes in with highly versatile features allowing users to use it regardless of the situation whether you are dealing with a moving car or you are capturing in a low-light situation.

The EOS 5D Mark IV has a 30.4 MP full-frame sensor combined with an ISO range of 100-32000. You can even have it expanded to 50-102400 though it won’t be necessary on most occasions.

It can also capture 7.0fps giving you the chance to capture even fast-moving cars.

There are a few reasons why photographers don’t like the EOS 5D Mark IV. But for us, the biggest downside to the EOS 5D is the weight.

Also, check out the best lenses for the Canon 5D Mark IV.

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8. Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Specifications:

• Body: Mid-size SLR
• Max resolution: 6240 x 4160
• Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
• Sensor size: Full frame
• ISO: Auto, 100-40000 (expands to 50-102400)
• Image stabilization: No
• Lens mount: Canon EF
• Touch screen: Yes
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (Mini-HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: No
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (wired, wireless or smartphone)
• Video resolutions:
  • 1280 x 720
  • 1920 x 1080

Compared with other options on our list of best cameras for car photography, many considered the Canon 6D Mark II as the top choice.

The EOS 6D Mark II comes in with a 26.2 MP full-frame CMOS sensor coupled with a 45-point AF system. This allows you to find the subject with minimal lag time.

However, the AF system tends to just focus everything on the center.

It also connects to both WiFi and Bluetooth allowing fast transfer of photos to your device. Plus, you get a 3” vari-angle LCD that lets you adjust the configuration with ease.

Also, check out the best lenses for the Canon 6D Mark II.

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9. Canon EOS R5

Specifications:

• Body: SLR-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 8190 x 5464
• Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
• Sensor size: Full frame
• ISO: Yes, 100-51200 (expands to 102400)
• Image stabilization: Sensor shift
• Lens mount: Canon RF
• Touch screen: Yes
• USB: USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 GBit/sec)
• USB charging: Yes
• HDMI: Yes (micro HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes
• Video resolutions:
  • 3840 x 2160 (4K)
  • 4096 x 2160 (4K)
  • 7680 x 4320 (8K)
  • 8192 x 4320 (8K)

Lots of car photography enthusiasts who use Canon always wished that they could use a lighter camera. The Canon EOS R5 is that camera.

Despite the lightweight design, it is packed with high-end specs that can compete against the top DSLRs in the market. You might even consider it the best choice if you are in the market for the best cameras for car photography.

It has the new 45-MP full-frame CMOS sensor with the DIGIC X image processor with an ISO range of 100-51200. If you are already satisfied with 7-10fps, the EOS R5 comes in with 12fps with its mechanical shutter and 20fps with its electronic shutter.

And lastly, you have the dual-pixel CMOS AF that covers 1053 AF areas.

It has powerful specs. However, the biggest concern for some users is the fact that some users reported that it’s overheating.

Also, check out the full list of best lenses for the Canon EOS R5.

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10. Canon EOS M6 Mark II

Specifications:

• Body: Rangefinder-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 6960 x 4640
• Image ratio: 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
• Sensor size: APS-C
• ISO: Auto, 100-25600 (expands to 51200)
• Image stabilization: No
• Lens mount: Canon EF-M
• Touch screen: Yes
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• USB charging: Yes (USB-PD compatible chargers)
• HDMI: Yes (Micro HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: No
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (wireless or smartphone)
• Video resolutions:
  • 1920 x 1080
  • 3840 x 2160 (4K)

EOS M6 Mark II is another mirrorless camera from Canon that brings interesting specs that can come in handy for anyone interested in seriously doing car photography.

With its 32.5MP CMOS sensor, it is easily one of the best cameras for car photography in the market today. It also comes with a fast continuous capturing capability at 14fps.

You also get a dual pixel CMOS AF that has 5481 manually selectable AF positions making this a versatile option when capturing either moving cars or cars that are parked in a studio.

It is also a favorite among vloggers considering its 4K capability. However, the biggest issue is the noticeable noise when you get the camera in a low-light scenario.

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11. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III

Specification:

• Body: SLR-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 5184 x 3888
• Image ratio: 4:3
• Sensor size: Four thirds
• ISO: Auto, 200-25600 (expands to 64-25600)
• Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
• Lens mount: Micro four thirds
• Touch screen: Yes
• USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
• USB charging: Yes
• HDMI: Yes (micro HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (wired or smartphone)
• Video resolutions:
  • 1920 x 1080
  • 3840 x 2160 (4K)
  • 4096 x 2160 (4K)

Some people just need a decent camera that they can use for their car photography hobby. With the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III, you get a good mirrorless camera for car photography that won’t cost an arm and leg.

It has a 16MP Live MOS sensor and a TruePic VIII image processor giving you superb results despite still a bit lacking in the resolution department compared to other options we’ve featured. But does it deserve to be part of the best cameras for car photography?

Definitely.

This is best known for its compact and lightweight design not to mention its intuitive controls. It also comes in with a 3” tilting LCD with touchscreen features to give you the right setting that you need.

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12. Fujifilm X-T4

Specifications:

• Body: SLR-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 6240 x 4160
• Image ratio: 1:1, 3:2, 16:9
• Sensor size: APS-C
• ISO: Auto, 160-12800 (expands to 80-51200)
• Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
• Lens mount: Fujifilm X
• Touch screen: Yes
• USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
• USB charging: Yes
• HDMI: Yes (micro-HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: No
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (via smartphone or wired remote)
• Video resolutions:
  • 1920 x 1080
  • 3840 x 2160 (4K)
  • 4096 x 2160 (4K)

Fujifilm X-T4 is a mirrorless camera that doesn’t lack in terms of features. It is a camera equipped with a 26MP APS sensor, a superb X-Processor 4, not to mention an ability to capture in 4K. All of this comes in a compact and lightweight construction.

This can also capture in 15fps plus it comes in with a flip-out LCD allowing you to take photos/videos in weird angles. However, the biggest downside to the camera would have to be its limited focus area.

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FAQ

Different photographers will have different preferences when it comes to their cameras. In addition to this, there are many options to choose from if you are after the best cameras for car photography.

Don’t forget to compare at least three of these cameras we’ve featured to get the best bang for your buck.

Also, check out the best lenses for car photography.

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