10 Best Cameras for Macro Photography in 2023

This is a guide covering the best camera for macro photography.

A lot of people think that macro photography is all about the lens. In reality, you also have to consider the power and features of the camera.

Some cameras are better at macro photography than others.

If your job as a photographer includes a lot of macro photography, then you might want to consider some of the cameras that we are going to feature.

This list will include different cameras that could easily be the best camera for macro photography.

We’ve come up with different brands of cameras to make the selection process easier for different users.

In general, a camera with a larger sensor, a built-in macro mode, and a high-resolution electronic viewfinder is the best choice for macro photography. Also, you might need to use a dedicated macro lens, which can give you more control over the focus and depth of field, and will be able to take sharper and more detailed close-up shots.

In a hurry? Here’s the quick rundown:

• ⭐ Best Overall Camera for Macro Photography
  • Canon EOS 6D Mark II

• 📷 Best DSLR Cameras for Macro Photography
  • Canon EOS 6D Mark II
  • Nikon D5600
  • Nikon D7500
  • Nikon D610

• 🔍 Best Mirrorless Cameras for Macro Photography
  • Panasonic LUMIX G7KS 4K
  • Canon EOS R6
  • Canon EOS M50
  • Panasonic LUMIX G85
  • Panasonic LUMIX S5

• 📹 Best Point-and-Shoot Camera for Macro Photography
  • Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III

• 💸 Best Budget Camera for Macro Photography
  • Canon EOS M50

How to Choose the Best Camera for Macro Photography?

Sensor size: A larger sensor size can be beneficial for macro photography as it allows for more control over depth of field and image quality. Full-frame sensors are generally considered the best for macro photography, but APS-C and Micro Four Thirds sensors can also work well.

Macro mode: Look for a camera that has a built-in macro mode, which can make it easier to take close-up shots and control the focus and depth of field.

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

Image stabilization: If you plan on shooting in low light or at slow shutter speeds, consider a camera with built-in image stabilization or a lens with image stabilization to reduce camera shake.

Manual controls: Macro photography often requires manual control of settings such as aperture, shutter speed, and focus. Look for a camera that has manual controls and the ability to shoot in RAW format.

High-resolution electronic viewfinder: A high-resolution electronic viewfinder can be helpful for macro photography as it allows you to see the fine details in your subject and compose your shots more accurately.

Dedicated Macro lens: A dedicated macro lens will give you more control over the focus and depth of field, and will be able to take sharper and more detailed close-up shots.

10 Best Cameras for Macro Photography

1. Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: Mid-size SLR
• Max resolution: 6240 x 4160
• Image ratio: w:h 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
• ISO: Auto, 100-40000 (expands to 50-102400)
• White balance: presets 6
• Image stabilization: No
• Touch screen: Yes
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (Mini-HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: No
• Wireless: Built-In
• Wireless notes: 802.11b/g/n + NFC + Bluetooth
• Remote control: Yes (wired, wireless or smartphone)
• Format: MPEG-4, H.264
• Modes
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 60 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 30 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 12 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 23.98p / 30 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1280 x 720 @ 60p / 26 Mbps, MOV, H.264, AAC
  • 1280 x 720 @ 30p / 4 Mbps, MOV, H.264, AAC

I believe the best camera for macro photography is the Canon EOS 6D Mark II.

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II is a popular choice for professional photographers. It is a favorite among sports and nature photographers considering its high-speed performance and ability to take vibrant colors.

As far as its specs are concerned, it comes with a 26.2 MP full-frame CMOS sensor plus a DIGIG 7 image processor that can give you accurate colors and superb details on your shots.

When shooting small subjects, it comes with a vari-angle touch screen that can adjust and allow you to take photos even in weird angles.

Finding the subject isn’t a problem as well for the Canon EOS 6D Mark II given its dual-pixel CMOS AF with phase detection.

On top of all the features that we’ve mentioned, it also has WiFi and GPS capability.

The flaw that you might not like about this camera is that you can still see some noise even if you’re using the camera at low ISO.

If you’re going to print your photos, this is something that you might notice.

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

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2. Panasonic LUMIX G7KS 4K Mirrorless Camera

Your investment will always be a consideration whenever you’re choosing the best camera for macro photography.

Some beginners prefer a camera within a reasonable range.

The Panasonic Lumix G7KS fits the classification of the best least investment camera in macro photography.

But when it comes to its performance, you can never go wrong with the Panasonic Lumix G7 KS 4K mirrorless camera.

This camera is compact, plus it has a 16 MP sensor and a standout image processor that can produce great quality images for its user.

Though it’s more known today as a video content creator’s go-to camera, this performs well in shooting macro photography.

It comes with a precise AF tracking ability, silent shooting capability, and wireless connectivity to name a few. Unfortunately, it’s not exactly a pro-level camera.

The picture quality tends to produce a lot of noise especially if you run the ISO high.

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3. Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: Compact
• Max resolution: 5472 x 3648
• Image ratio: w:h 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
• Image stabilization: Optical
• 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 wireless remote)
• Touch screen: Yes
• Modes:
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 120 Mbps, MOV, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 120 Mbps, MOV, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 60 Mbps, MOV, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 30 Mbps, MOV, H.264, AAC

The best point and shoot camera for macro photography is the Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III.

In most instances, cameras that can do well in macro photography are those that have interchangeable lenses.

However, it doesn’t mean that point-and-shoot cameras can’t do macro photography.

This camera is equipped with a 24-100mm F1.8-2.8 zoom lens. It also comes with a 4.2x optical zoom.

With its wide aperture lens, not to mention the ability to shoot up close, it’s a good pick for point-and-shoot macro photography.

It also comes with a 20.1 MP and a 1.0″ stacked CMOS sensor and a DIGIC 8 image processor.

This makes the Canon Powershot G7X Mark III a powerful camera even if it can’t switch lenses.

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4. Nikon D5600 DX-Format Digital

Camera Specification:

• Body type: Compact SLR
• Max resolution: 6000 x 4000
• Image ratio: w:h 3:2
• ISO: Auto, 100 – 25600
• Image stabilization: No
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (mini-HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: No
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (Yes (MC-DC2 (wired), WR-1/WR-R10 (wireless))
• 1920 x 1080 (60p, 50p, 30p, 25p, 24p), 1280 x 720 (60p, 50p)

The Nikon D5600 DX-Format Digital Camera is a top contender for the best camera for macro photography given its ability to shoot in different situations.

It has shooting modes including candlelight, beach, snow, and many others.

As far as shooting macro photography is concerned, you’ll enjoy sharp results. It has 24.2 megapixels plus it produces vivid colors of different subjects.

When it comes to its usability, it is lightweight and even comes with a reticulating touchscreen LCD.

There are only a few things that you won’t like about this lens. Its connectivity is a hit or miss on different devices regardless if it’s an IOS or an Android device.

Also, check out the best Nikon macro lenses and the best lenses for the Nikon D5600.

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5. Nikon D7500 20.9MP DSLR Camera

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: Mid-size SLR
• Max resolution: 5568 x 3712
• Image ratio: w:h 3:2
• ISO: ISO 100 – 51200 (expandable to 50 – 1640000)
• Image stabilization: Digital only
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (Wired, wireless, smartphone)
• Modes
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 144 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 144 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 144 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 48 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 24 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 50p / 48 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 50p / 24 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 24 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 12 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 25p / 24 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 25p / 12 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 24p / 24 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 24p / 12 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1280 x 720 @ 60p / 24 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1280 x 720 @ 60p / 12 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1280 x 720 @ 50p / 24 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1280 x 720 @ 50p / 12 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM

The D7500 is another great pick and a strong candidate for the best camera for macro photography.

Several features can make it stand out from the rest of the macro photography camera options out there today. For starters, it comes with a 20.9 MP resolution.

Plus, you also have a 51-point AF system that makes it easier to track the subject.

As for its functionality, you get a touchscreen LCD that allows you to navigate the settings and get exactly what you want. It also has a decent ISO range.

There are only a few things that you might not like about this camera. For instance, the wireless connectivity, just like the D5600, we’ve featured is difficult to use.

Imagine having a 2MB size limit.

Also, check out the best lenses for the Nikon D7500.

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6. Canon EOS R6 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 5472 x 3648
• ISO: Yes, 100-102400 (expands to 204800)
• Image stabilization Sensor-shift
• 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
• Modes:
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 60p / 230 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 120 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 23.98p / 120 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 120 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 60 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 30 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 23.98p / 30 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM

The Canon EOS R6 is a top choice for Canon enthusiasts who prefer using a lighter mirrorless camera.

Originally catered to videographers, this camera has grown in popularity among photographers who regularly shoot macro photography.

Taking a closer look at its features, you’d easily consider this as a strong contender for the best camera for macro photography.

For one, it comes with a 20MP dual-pixel CMOS sensor. It also comes with an in-body stabilization that is rated up to 8EV of correction.

It makes it easy to use even when you don’t have steady hands and shooting small moving insects.

It also comes with a fast shutter speed reaching up to 20fps.

The touchscreen LCD is also handy as it makes it easier to navigate the settings of the camera.

The colors are vibrant plus it comes with a noise reduction feature that can add clarity to shots.

Though it’s a near-perfect camera, it might feel a bit too overkill if you’re not shooting videos.

Also, if you are going to compare it with other mirrorless cameras within its range, such as the Nikon Z7 or the Z6, and even the Sony A7RIV, this camera feels cheap with its plastic materials.

Also, check out a full list of the best lenses for the Canon EOS R6.

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7. Canon EOS M50

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 6000 x 4000
• Image ratio: w:h 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
• ISO: Auto, 100-25600 (expands to 51200)
• Image Stabilization: No
• Touch Screen: yes
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• USB charging: No
• HDMI: Yes (micro-HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: No
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (via smartphone)
• Modes
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 23.98p / 120 Mbps, MOV, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 60 Mbps, MOV, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 30 Mbps, MOV, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 23.98p / 30 Mbps, MOV, H.264, AAC
  • 1280 x 720 @ 120p / 52 Mbps, MOV, H.264, AAC
  • 1280 x 720 @ 60p / 26 Mbps, MOV, H.264, AAC

Another popular mirrorless camera from Canon is the Canon EOS M50. It’s a camera that first became popular among vloggers.

But apart from its 4K video capability, this can also be used for shooting photos.

It comes in as a great pick if you wish to shoot macro photography with its 24 MP APS C CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8 Image Processor.

It delivers stunning colors and ranges that can please not only hobbyists but even professional photographers alike.

The vari-angle touchscreen LCD is also complimentary when shooting macro photography at weird angles. This makes it easy to review your photos and set up the right setting for your shots.

With these specs, you might consider this the best camera for macro photography.

However, you also have to take a closer look at some of its flaws.

For one, the battery life didn’t live up to our expectations. Also, it tends to lag when used in low-light situations.

Also, check out the best lenses for the Canon M50.

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8. Panasonic LUMIX G85

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 4592 x 3448
• ISO: Auto, 200-25600 (expands down to ISO 100)
• Image Stabilization: Sensor-shift
• Touch Screen: Yes
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (micro-HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: No
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (via wired remote or smartphone)
• Modes:
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 100 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 100 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 28 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60i / 17 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 24 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 20 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 24p / 24 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.

The Panasonic Lumix G85 can get the job done if you’re looking for a mid-range camera whether for shooting videos or photos.

It has gained popularity over the years because of its 4K capability.

But aside from its usual role as a vlogger’s go-to mirrorless camera, it can potentially be the best camera for macro photography.

It can be a good pick since it comes with a 16MP resolution and a class-leading image stabilization feature.

The quality of the shots is above average, making it a good option for those who don’t want to carry a bulky DSLR. However, there are a few flaws that you also need to consider.

For starters, you have noticeable noise when shooting in low-light situations. The autofocus is also not as fast as you’d want it to be if you’re trying to shoot moving insects.

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9. Panasonic LUMIX S5

The Lumix S5 is among the top picks for fans who love mirrorless cameras. The Lumix S5 is a lightweight pick that can promote high-quality photos and videos.

It also comes with improved autofocus and an image stabilization feature that can minimize shaky results. You can save your photos in 96MP high-resolution mode.

However, under normal circumstances, it can give users 24.2MP. The colors are lively and accurate.

Its image stabilization feature can compensate for up to 6.5 stops. Plus, the high-speed autofocus comes with advanced AI technology.

But despite the near-perfect performance of the Lumix S5, the autofocus is still not the best. It could’ve been better.

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10. Nikon D610

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: Mid-size SLR
• Max resolution: 6016 x 4016
• Image stabilization: No
• Touch screen: No
• Microphone: Mono
• Speaker: Mono
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (Mini Type C)
• Wireless: Optional
• Remote control: Yes (Optional, wired or wireless )
• Video Modes:
  • 1920 x 1080 (30, 25, 24 fps), 1280 x 720 (60, 50, 30, 25 fps)

The Nikon D610 is a great option for those who want to turn professional. It is a handy tool for all types of photographers including those who are looking for the best camera for macro photography.

It comes with a 24.3MP full-frame CMOS sensor providing vivid colors. Also, it comes with a 39-point AF system that makes it easy to track the subject.

And since it is an all-around camera, you can even get a speed of up to 6fps.

The D610 is considered a bit aged compared to the other DSLRs in the market but it can still get the job done. Pound for pound, it can still compete despite being an older model.

The only issue is that the camera tends to back focus which can be a bit annoying.

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FAQ

Final Remarks

Some photographers love to shoot subjects up close. You can make the most out of your art when you have a good camera.

These options that we’ve featured can help make things easier for you. But before you go for a gear, be sure that you consider weighing your options first.

Try comparing not only the pros and the cons but determine what you want in a camera.

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