Last updated on February 8th, 2024
The pet photography camera market has never been more crowded or competitive. With so many options, which one is right for you? Based on our findings, we’ve put together a list of the ten best pet photography cameras on the market.
When ranking the cameras, we considered several factors, including image quality, features, ease of use, and price. We also took into account user reviews and ratings from reliable sources.
No matter your budget or needs, a pet photography camera is on this list that’s perfect for you. So, without further ado, here are the ten best pet photography cameras:
Best Camera for Pet Photography
Sony Alpha 7R IV
The Sony Alpha 7R IV is the best pet photography camera overall. It’s a full-frame mirrorless interchangeable lens camera with a 61MP sensor, 4K video recording, and other features.
It’s also one of the most expensive pet photography cameras. But if you’re looking for the best, the Sony Alpha 7R IV is it.
The 61-megapixel back-illuminated Exmor R sensor is the world’s highest resolution sensor of its kind. The high resolution allows it to shoot up to ten frames per second and capture stunning detail and clarity in photos and videos. The camera also has a native ISO range of 50 to 102,400, making it capable of capturing photos and videos in low light conditions.
The camera’s 5.76 million dot UXGA OLED Tru-Finder electronic viewfinder is outstanding in brightness, resolution, and color, providing an immersive shooting experience. The camera’s vibration-free shutter also ensures that your images remain clear and sharp.
What We Like/Dislike About the Sony Alpha 7R IV
Like:
- The best image quality of any pet photography camera on the market
- Excellent low light performance
- Robust and durable construction
- Fast autofocus
Dislike:
- No integrated flash
- Expensive
What Consumers Are Saying
“Combined with the Sony 90mm Macro, I can attain tac sharp focus handheld on insect eyes. I can shoot tiny jumping spiders, assassin bugs, flowers, lichen, moss, and incredibly tiny subjects. APSC mode (or crop in Lightroom) makes this the highest resolution Full Frame and a phenomenal Crop Sensor camera. Win-win!” –Omnifone
“Incredible camera. I upgraded from the A7iii and am amazed by the picture quality and ability to crop the photos and retain the resolution. I took it on a recent trip to Key West for a wild dolphin watch. I am so glad I brought the A7riv with me. I took some amazing pics of the dolphins from far away using the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 and then cropped in. The focus tracking works amazingly well as well. Noise is worse than the A7iii in the low-light situation. But I am willing to live with that with all the other amazing features of the A7Riv.” – Ann
Best Budget Pet Photography DSLR
Canon EOS Rebel T8i
Our most affordable camera for pet photography is the Canon EOS Rebel T8i EF-S 18-55mm STM Lens Kit. It’s a great all-around camera that offers excellent image quality and features at a reasonable price.
The Canon EOS Rebel T8i is a 24.1-megapixel digital camera that is perfect for amateur and professional photographers. It has a CMOS sensor with DIGIC 8 image processing that allows it to shoot 4K video and has an advanced autofocus system. The 9-point AF system and AI Servo AF ensure that your photos will be in focus, while the WiFi and NFC technology make it easy to share your photos with others.
The Canon EOS Rebel T8i is a high-quality digital camera that is perfect for pet photography. It features an optical viewfinder with approximately 95 percent viewing coverage, making it easy to frame your shots. The camera is also very user-friendly, making it an excellent option for those new to pet photography.
What We Like/Dislike About the Canon EOS Rebel T8i
Like:
- Comfortable to use
- Good image quality
- Fantastic autofocus
- Fully-articulated screen.
Dislike:
- Slightly plasticky build quality
What Consumers Are Saying
“I started with a Canon SX720HS 40X small digital camera and took pictures of wildlife in my backyard, people, places, etc. So call me a beginner to mid-range camera buff. Then I bought this Canon Rebel 8ti and a 24-105 Canon Zoom Lens. I love the camera because not only does it take the sharpest, clearest. Most fantastic pictures I have ever produced, I can operate it!….” – FishinDan49
“I had waited for this specific camera to come into stock and was very happy when I got it! I had the same DSLR for 12 years, and it was time for something new. I was keeping in mind that I am not a prof. By any means, I am thrilled so far with what this camera offers! Great pics so far, and I love how light it is! The other plus for me is that all the other lenses that I have invested in over the years work well with it and for me not wanting to spend more than necessary, it was a plus when buying this one over other options….” – Kingdom
Runner-Up Best Pet Photography Camera
Nikon Z7
Our best pet photography camera runner-up is the Nikon Z7 FX-Format Mirrorless Camera Body with Mount Adapter FTZ. It’s more expensive than the Canon EOS Rebel T8i but offers professional-grade features and performance.
The Nikon Z7 is an excellent camera for pet photography because it has a high megapixel count, which means you can capture beautiful, high-resolution images of your furry friend. The camera also shoots 4K videos so that you can create stunning videos of your pet.
The Nikon Z7 is a high-end camera with an advanced autofocus system with 273 focus points. It also has a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system, making it ideal for shooting under challenging conditions. The camera is weather-sealed, dust-resistant, and features a 3.69 million dot Quad VGA OLED Tru-Finder EVF.
What We Like/Dislike About the Nikon Z7
Like:
- In-body stabilization
- Tilting touch LCD
- 4K video.
- Weather sealing
- Bluetooth and WiFi
Dislike:
- Single memory card slot
- Autofocus could be better
What Consumers Are Saying
“This camera is as perfect a camera as I have ever held. I am a D850 shooter, which is hard to beat. But imagine the D850 at half the weight with excellent in-camera stabilization. Not a pro. Just a pretty serious amateur. This camera is the one to beat for the foreseeable future. Period.” –nnachlasmd
“This is hands-down the best camera I’ve ever used (and I’ve been doing photography for years). It also takes amazing movies. The kit lens is superb, and the image sensor is just dynamite. It’s hard to overstate how better the photos are than any other camera I’ve ever owned. Usability is also good, and it’s weatherproof. Finally, it has things like WiFi support that let you remotely control it (and see the pictures) from a phone.” –MarkZ
Best Camera for Pet Photography Under $700
Canon EOS M50 Mark II
If you’re looking for a great pet photography camera but don’t want to spend much money, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II + EF-M 15-45mm STM Kit is great. It’s an affordable mirrorless interchangeable lens camera with excellent image quality and features.
The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a great pet photography camera because it has a 26.1 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor with DIGIC 8 image processing. This allows you to take high-quality photos of your pet that capture their personality. The camera can also shoot 4K video up to 25p so that you can record all the fun moments with your furry friend in stunning detail. Plus, the camera’s advanced autofocus system with 143 focus points makes it easy to get the perfect shot every time.
The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is an excellent camera for anyone looking for a compact and lightweight camera with a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system. The vari-angle touch screen LCD is also a great feature, allowing you to take pictures and videos from any angle easily.
What We Like/Dislike About the Canon EOS M50 Mark II
Like:
- Lightweight build with lenses that complement it
- 24MP APS-C
- Wide focus coverage
- 10fps bursts
- Touch LCD
- Bluetooth and WiFi
Dislike:
- Short battery life
- The small burst capture buffer
What Consumers Are Saying
“So, I had bought the M200, which I liked except that it didn’t support an external mic. I returned that and decided to go with the m50 Mark ii since I read it had the newer features I liked about the m200, such as eye detection and good focus. I am thrilled with this camera because I now can use an external mic for quality audio (and not feel like I’d just gotten back from a run after a project-shouting into the cam, haha). Also, the m200 could only do less than 10 minutes on 4K before the battery heats up and the camera shuts down. I do not have that problem with this one.
All in all, I’d recommend this product over the m200 like 100%! I’m not a professional, so I can’t compare with DSLR cameras and stuff, but here are my 2 cents. I depended on reviews to buy, so I’m paying it forward.” –Hiwot
“…Takes good quality pictures with a 24 MP crop sensor, and the built-in flash is adequate for her non-professional applications. It seems a little small, but the bundled lenses balance it well.”– Zoot
Best Pet Photography Camera Under $500
Canon EOS Rebel T7
This photographer bundle is ideal for novices, with all the tools needed to take your SLR abilities to new heights in a straightforward package. Even when the lights go down, count on the EOS Rebel t7’s superb 24.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor and a wide ISO range of 100-6400 (H: 12800) to capture high-quality pictures, even in low-light situations.
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is an excellent camera for pet photography because it has a 24.1 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor with DIGIC 4+ image processing. This allows the camera to capture high-quality images of pets, and the advanced autofocus system with nine focus points ensures that your shots are in focus. Additionally, the camera can shoot Full HD video up to 30p so you can record your pet’s antics in beautiful detail.
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is an excellent camera for beginner photographers. It is compact, lightweight, and has an optical viewfinder with 95% viewing coverage. It also has a 3.0″ LCD screen, which makes it easy to compose shots and review images.
What We Like/Dislike About the Canon EOS Rebel T7
Like:
- 24MP image sensor
- Inexpensive
Dislike:
- Fixed rear LCD
- Slow 3fps burst rate
- Autofocus not available when recording video
What Consumers Are Saying
“Great starter camera; it took amazing photos on my travels to the desert and the Arches. Autofocus is great and takes superb close-ups. It struggles to adjust to high contrast lighting and can be slow. It is super well made and can survive a beating- which I found out when a dog ran away with the strap in its mouth. *oops*. Happy with this purchase overall!”– Xena
“At first, I was hesitant to purchase this at such a low price and used it, but after receiving the camera and accessories, I am in love! It is just like new with zero scratches. I didn’t realize when I bought this used that it did not come with a Canon brand battery and charger, but that’s fine with me. The seller forgot to send the neck strap and has been promptly keeping in touch with me and is shipping one out ASAP! I love the way it looks; the picture quality is surprisingly good! It’s a great beginner’s camera for sure.” – Brenda J.
Honorable Mentions for Pet Photography Cameras
Sony a7 III
The Sony a7 III is a great pet photography camera for several reasons. It has a 24.2 megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor with BIONZ X image processing, which helps to create high-quality photos and videos. It can also shoot 4K videos up to 30p, making it an excellent option for filming your pet’s antics.
The Sony a7 III is an advanced digital camera with many features and benefits that set it apart from other cameras on the market. One of its most impressive features is its autofocus system, which has 693 focus points. This makes capturing clear and accurate images easier, even in difficult shooting conditions. In addition, the camera is weather-sealed and dust-resistant, making it ideal for use in various outdoor settings. It also has a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system, which helps to keep images sharp and clear, even when handheld. And finally, the camera’s electronic viewfinder offers 100% viewing coverage, so you can be sure that you’re capturing all the details of your shots.
What We Like/Dislike About the Sony a7 III
Like:
- 5-axis stabilization
- 4K HDR video
- Silent shooting available
- Tilting touch LCD
- Dual SD slots
Dislike:
- No in-body flash
- Shooting buffer
What Consumers Are Saying
“I have to say that I am thoroughly impressed with this camera. I decided to purchase it after doing a LOT of research on the best upgrade from my Nikon D7100. I shoot a lot of nature and landscapes, as well as portraits and action shots of my kids playing sports. This camera does it all!”
“I am a professional photographer and have been using this camera for about a year. I have used it for weddings, portraits, and even landscapes. I love it! The image quality is amazing, and the autofocus is incredible. I would highly recommend”
![Canon PowerShot Digital Camera [G7 X Mark II] with Wi-Fi & NFC, LCD Screen, and 1-inch Sensor - Black, 100-1066C001](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51noZbmp16L._SL500_.jpg "Canon PowerShot Digital Camera [G7 X Mark II] with Wi-Fi & NFC, LCD Screen, and 1-inch Sensor - Black, 100-1066C001")
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II
The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II is a great pet photography camera for some reasons: it has a 1-inch 20.2 megapixel CMOS sensor with DIGIC 7 image processing, which enables it to shoot 4K video at up to 30p. Its advanced autofocus system with 31 focus points makes capturing sharp images of your furry friends easy.
The camera comes equipped with a tilting touchscreen LCD, making it easy to take pictures and videos from various angles. Finally, the camera’s built-in WiFi and NFC connectivity make it easy to share photos and videos with your friends and family.
What We Like/Dislike About the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II
Like:
- Wide aperture zoom lens
- 1-inch image sensor
- Tilting touchscreen display
- Quick autofocus
- Raw image capture support
Dislike:
- No hot shoe or EVF
- Edge softness at a wide angle
What Consumers Are Saying
“This camera is great for anyone who wants to photograph their pets! The autofocus is quick and accurate, and the image quality is fantastic.”
“I’m a professional photographer, and I bought this camera to use as a backup on shoots. I have to say that I’m impressed with it! The image quality is fantastic, and the autofocus system is high-speed and accurate.”
Nikon D5600
The Nikon D5600 is a great pet photography camera because it has a 24.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor with EXPEED 4 image processing. Your photos will be high quality and clear, no matter the subject. Additionally, the D5600 can shoot Full HD video at up to 60p, so you can capture your pet’s antics in incredible detail. Plus, the advanced autofocus system with 39 focus points makes it easy to keep your pet in focus, even when they’re moving around.
The Nikon D5600 is a lightweight and compact DSLR camera with a vari-angle LCD touchscreen and an optical viewfinder with 100% viewing coverage. The camera is perfect for shooting photos and videos, and its intuitive controls make it easy to use.
What We Like/Dislike About the Nikon D5600
Like:
- Good battery life
- Good image quality
- Lightweight
Dislike:
- No 4K video
- Entry level camera
What Consumers Are Saying
“I bought this camera to take pictures of my cat, and I have to say that I am very impressed!”
“I am not a professional photographer, but I wanted a good quality camera to take pictures of my pets. This camera is great!”
Panasonic LUMIX S5
The Panasonic LUMIX S5 is a great pet photography camera because it has a 24.2 megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor with Venus image processing. This ensures that your photos will be clear and crisp, even if your pet is moving around. Additionally, the Panasonic LUMIX S5 can shoot 4K video at up to 60p, which is perfect for capturing those action shots of your pet in motion. Finally, the advanced autofocus system with 225 focus points makes it easy to capture your pet’s facial features in sharp detail.
The Panasonic LUMIX S5 is a lightweight and compact camera that features a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system and a vari-angle LCD touchscreen. The camera is perfect for shooting photos and videos, and its intuitive controls make it easy to use.
What We Like/Dislike About the Panasonic LUMIX S5
Like:
- Small size and weight
- Good range of controls
- Excellent video specifications
Dislike:
- No full-sized HDMI port
- Large lenses
- Other cameras have better autofocus
What Consumers Are Saying
“The S5 has much better ergonomics + handling and is the same size as the X-T4, which is remarkable considering its full frame. The JPEG engine is also great (Portrait color profile is my favorite).”
“This is an excellent camera for pet photography. The autofocus system is fantastic, and the image quality is superb.”
Fujifilm X-S10
The Fujifilm X-S10 is an excellent pet photography camera for many reasons:
- It has a 26.1 megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor with X-Processor 4 image processing. This ensures that your photos will be clear and crisp, regardless of the lighting conditions.
- The X-S10 can shoot 4K videos up to 30p. This means you can capture beautiful video footage of your pet that is clear and smooth.
- The X-S10 is lightweight and easy to use, making it perfect for taking on shoots with your pet.
The Fujifilm X-S10 is an excellent camera for anyone looking for a compact and lightweight camera with an advanced autofocus system. The camera has 693 focus points, making capturing clear and sharp photos easy. In addition, the in-body image stabilization helps to keep your photos blur-free.
What We Like/Dislike About the Fujifilm X-S10
Like:
- Fast, reliable autofocus
- 5-axis IBIS
- Front-facing display
Dislike:
- Omits weather sealing
- Short Battery life
What Consumers Are Saying
“An excellent investment for me. I need a camera for my kid, and this one is perfect. Lightweight enough to carry with all other baby stuff and ease of use.”
“just got into photography; the camera is perfect for learning for first-timers into photography.”
Conclusion
If you’re in the market for a new pet photography camera, then be sure to check out the ten best cameras we’ve listed above. These cameras are perfect for capturing clear and sharp photos of your furry friends. They range in price and features, so be sure to find the right one for your needs. And most importantly, have fun taking photos of your pets! They’re sure to bring a smile to your face.
FAQ
What lens is suitable for dog photography?
Different lenses can be suitable for dog photography, depending on what you want to achieve with your pet photography. For example, a macro lens would be a good choice if you want to take close-up portraits of your dog. If you want to capture action shots of your dog playing, a telephoto lens would be a better option.
What is the best aperture for pet photography?
Again, this depends on what you want to achieve with your pet photography. If you’re looking to take close-up portraits of your pet, then a higher aperture (e.g., f/2.8 or f/4) will give you a shallow depth of field, which can help make your subject stand out from the background. If you’re looking to capture more of the environment in your pet photography, then a lower aperture (e.g., f/8 or f/11) will give you a greater depth of field, which can help keep everything in focus.
What is the best ISO for pet photography?
ISO is another setting that will depend on the results you’re trying to achieve with your pet photography. A higher ISO will give you a brighter image, but it can also introduce noise into your photos. So, a higher ISO might be necessary if you’re looking to take low-light photos of your pet or if you want to capture fast-moving action. However, a lower ISO would be better if you’re looking to take high-quality photos with minimal noise.
What is the best shutter speed for pet photography?
Again, this depends on the results you’re trying to achieve. A faster shutter speed will freeze action, which can be helpful for pet photography, where you want to capture your subject mid-movement. A slower shutter speed will result in a blur, which you can use creatively to convey a sense of motion.
What are some tips for taking better pet photos?
Some tips for taking better pet photos include:
- You are using a fast shutter speed to freeze action
- You’re using a lower aperture to get more of the scene in focus
- You’re using a higher ISO if you’re shooting in low light or trying to capture fast movement.
