12 Best Cameras for Instagram in 2024: Ranked & Reviews

By Tati Taylor 5 days ago, Cameras & Lenses

Popular cameras for Instagram used by influencers all over the world.

top 3 cameras for instagram

Whether you’re a traveler, fashion expert, photographer, or aspiring influencer, you’re going to need the best camera for Instagram available to ensure your profile attracts as many followers as possible. This post features a handpicked selection of reliable options that are perfectly suited for taking high-quality, lifestyle photos of any genre.

The average price of the cameras included in this article ranges between $400 and $1,500, meaning nearly anyone can find something for their budget to implement all your creative Instagram photo ideas.

Top 12 Cameras for Instagram to Try

  1. Fujifilm X-S10 - Superior image quality
  2. Nikon Z 50 - Compact
  3. Panasonic LUMIX G100 - Budget
  4. Olympus PEN E-PL10 - In-camera RAW editing
  5. Sony ZV-1 - Built-in ND filter
  6. Apple iPhone 13 Pro - For premium-looking content
  7. Nikon COOLPIX P1000 - Exceptional optical zoom
  8. Sony Alpha A6600 - Tiltable display
  9. Olympus E-M10 Mark IV - 5-axis image stabilization
  10. Canon EOS M50 Mark II - Snapbridge technology
  11. Olympus Tough TG-6 - Waterproof design
  12. Canon EOS Rebel T7 - Remote control with a smartphone

Regardless of your Instagram account type or preferred photography genre, below you’ll find several suitable modern cameras that are used by the most popular Instagram photographers. I’ve also prepared a guide that will help you pick the best camera for Instagram without getting bogged down with various technical characteristics.

1. Fujifilm X-S10 - Our Choice

Superior image quality
fujifilm x s10 camera for instagram

Type: Mirrorless | Megapixels: 26.1MP | Lens mount: Fujifilm X lenses | Video: 4K | Weight: 16.40 oz

  • ✚ Comes with a decent lens included
  • ✚ Built-in film emulation presets
  • ✚ Capable of capturing 4K video at up to 30fps
  • ✚ Instant wireless sharing
  • Buffer fills up quickly
  • Poor battery life

If you're serious about taking your Instagram game to the next level, investing in a dedicated best Fujiflm camera like the X-S10 is definitely worth it. The image quality you can achieve with this camera is far superior to what your smartphone can offer. And the fact that it comes with a decent 18-55mm zoom lens as part of the package is a major bonus, saving you the cost of buying a separate lens.

Another cool feature is the built-in film emulation presets, which allow you to add a specific look to your images. And for all you videographers out there, the X-S10 has an HDMI port for connecting external monitors during video recording.

fujifilm x s10 camera for instagram photo sample

Photo Taken with Fujifilm X-S10

Now, let's talk about the downsides. One of the main issues I found with this camera for IG photos is that the buffer fills up quickly, especially when shooting in RAW. It takes around 15 seconds for a single file to be written to the SD card, which can be frustrating if you're trying to capture bursts of shots.

Additionally, the battery life isn't the longest, so you'll need to recharge after a day of shooting.

2. Nikon Z 50

Compact
nikon z 50 camera for instagram

Type: Mirrorless | Megapixels: 20.9MP | Lens mount: Nikon Z lenses | Video: 4K | Weight: 13.93 oz

  • ✚ Pleasant touchscreen UI
  • ✚ Weather protection
  • ✚ Impressive high ISO results
  • ✚ Long-lasting battery
  • Single UHS-1 card slot
  • Price tag

First off, it features a fantastic 20.9 MP CMOS sensor, which produces high-quality images with accurate colors and impressive detail. It also has a speedy 11 FPS continuous shooting speed, perfect for capturing those fast-paced moments. And the best part? You can shoot stunning 4K videos without any annoying crop.

Another advantage is the autofocus system. It works like a charm, ensuring your shots are sharp and in focus. Plus, the Z 50 is one of the few mirrorless cameras that offer an LCD flip-out, making it super convenient for all your selfie lovers out there. Trust me, it's a game-changer.

nikon z 50 camera for instagram photo sample

Photo Taken with Nikon Z 50

However, let's not ignore the disadvantages and compromises of the Z 50. Firstly, it's a bit more expensive compared to some of its competitors. Another downside is the lack of Commander mode or FP modes found in Nikon's more advanced full-frame cameras. And let's not forget the limited support for SDXC UHS I cards, which can lead to slower buffering times.

3. Panasonic LUMIX G100

Budget
panasonic lumix g100 camera for instagram

Type: Mirrorless | Megapixels: 20.3MP | Lens mount: Micro Four Thirds lenses | Video: 4K | Weight: 12.42 oz

  • ✚ Easy to carry around
  • ✚ Smart onboard audio
  • ✚ Fantastic monitor/EVF
  • ✚ Allows editing RAW photos in camera
  • No built-in flash
  • Lack of weather sealing
  • No built-in ND filter

Now, as an avid Instagram user and content creator, finding the perfect camera for Instagram pictures to capture my moments is crucial. The G100 definitely caught my attention, so let's dive into its advantages and disadvantages.

First off, the G100 is small and compact, making it super convenient to carry around. It fits right in your pocket, which is perfect for those on-the-go moments. Plus, the G100 also offers a range of JPEG processing modes similar to smartphone filters.

panasonic lumix g100 camera for instagram photo sample

Photo Taken with Panasonic LUMIX G100

But like any camera for beginners, there are some downsides to consider. The G100 doesn't have a built-in flash, so if you're shooting outdoors during the day, that might pose a challenge. Another downside is that it doesn't have weather sealing, so be cautious of dirt and dust getting into the camera's sensor.

4. Olympus PEN E-PL10

In-camera RAW editing
olympus pen e pl10 camera for instagram

Type: Mirrorless | Megapixels: 16MP | Lens mount: Micro Four Thirds lenses | Video: 4K | Weight: 13.41 oz

  • ✚ Integrated image stabilization
  • ✚ Silent manual mode
  • ✚ Multiple newbie-friendly modes
  • ✚ 180° swivel screen
  • No built-in viewfinder
  • Autofocus system may struggle with tracking moving subjects

As a blogger, I'm always on the lookout for an Instagram camera that gives me the perfect shots for my feed, and I have to say, this mirrorless camera definitely has some advantages. Firstly, the Olympus PEN E-PL10 is designed with the Instagram generation in mind.

As one of the best micro four thirds cameras, it offers a variety of Art Filters that give your images a creative touch, making them stand out on your feed. This is a great feature for those of us who want to add a unique and distinctive look to our photos.

olympus pen e pl10 camera for instagram photo sample

Photo Taken with Olympus PEN E-PL10

There are a few drawbacks to consider. Firstly, the E-PL10 doesn't have a built-in viewfinder, which can be a bit of a drawback if you're looking to shoot more complex scenes that require precise manual adjustments. Instead, it has a large LCD touchscreen that you can use to compose shots and perform various settings.

5. Sony ZV-1

Built-in ND filter
sony zv 1 camera for instagram

Type: Compact | Megapixels: 20.1MP | Lens mount: - | Video: 4K | Weight: 10.37 oz

  • ✚ Excellent autofocus options
  • ✚ High-resolution and low-noise images
  • ✚ Easy-to-use interface
  • ✚ Directional 3-capsule microphone
  • Short battery life
  • Image quality can be better

This Instagram camera is all about the experience of using it. It's designed to be user-friendly, with features like face tracking, auto exposure, and high-speed 4K recording. If you're into vlogging or making videos for Instagram or YouTube, this video camera will definitely appeal to you.

One cool feature that I love is the built-in ND filter. This comes in handy when shooting in bright conditions, as it helps balance out the exposure and avoid overexposed shots. Plus, the camera has a dedicated memory recall button, allowing you to switch between your favorite photo and video settings on the fly.

sony zv 1 camera for instagram photo sample

Photo Taken with Sony ZV-1

The biggest drawback is its battery life. It uses the NP-BX1 batteries, which are the same as many other Sony cameras, but it only has a 260-shot CIPA rating. That means if you're shooting a lot of video or using it in brighter conditions, you'll need to have some spare batteries on hand.

6. Apple iPhone 13 Pro

For premium-looking content
apple iphone 13 pro camera for instagram

Type: Smartphone | Megapixels: 12 MP + 12 MP + 12 MP | Lens mount: - | Video: 4K | Weight: 7.2 oz

  • ✚ Ability to record video in photo mode
  • ✚ Dual flashes for clear photos in dim light
  • ✚ Four cameras available
  • ✚ Second-generation optical image stabilization
  • Video quality drops significantly when uploaded to Instagram due to compression
  • The need for editing to achieve the desired result

The iPhone 13 Pro has not one, not two, but four cameras for IG photos! With a wide-angle lens, a super-wide lens, a telephoto lens, and even a macro mode, you have all the options you need to capture stunning photos. The macro mode is a game-changer, allowing you to get within two centimeters of any object and snap a photo.

One thing I really appreciate about this selfie camera is its second-generation optical image stabilization system. This means that even if your hands are a little shaky, you can still capture sharp and clear pictures. Plus, the four optical zoom levels allow you to get up close and personal with your subjects.

apple iphone 13 pro camera for instagram photo sample

Photo Taken with Apple iPhone 13 Pro

But here's the thing, when it comes to uploading videos to Instagram, there is a slight downside. Instagram compresses the videos, so the quality might not be as crisp and clear as it is on your phone. Just something to keep in mind if you're a video enthusiast.

7. Nikon COOLPIX P1000

Exceptional optical zoom
nikon coolpix p1000 camera for instagram

Type: Bridge | Megapixels: 16.8 MP | Lens mount: - | Video: 4K | Weight: 49.91 oz

  • ✚ Minimum shutter lag
  • ✚ Swivel LCD
  • ✚ High autofocus speed
  • ✚ Fast launch
  • Heavy body
  • Disappointing battery life
  • It is not weather-sealed

The P1000 is one of the most unique Nikon photography cameras out there. It’s the only bridge camera currently available that provides such an incredible range of optical zoom (24-3000mm) range.

nikon coolpix p1000 camera for instagram photo sample

Photo Taken with Nikon COOLPIX P1000

This model also allows photographers to stylize their photos with filters that are conveniently divided into 5 categories: Light (for color brightening), Depth (for establishing a calm, serene atmosphere), Memory (vintage looks), Classical (traditional photography effects), and Noir (black-and-white filters).

One downside is that the camera is not weather-sealed. So, if you're planning to use it in wet or challenging environments, you might want to take extra precautions.

8. Sony Alpha A6600

Tiltable display
sony alpha a6600 camera for instagram

Type: Mirrorless | Megapixels: 24.2 MP | Lens mount: Sony E lenses | Video: 4K | Weight: 17.74 oz

  • ✚ Excellent low-light performance
  • ✚ Weather-sealed design
  • ✚ Extensive customization options
  • ✚ In-body image stabilization
  • Slow memory card write speed
  • Lack of front command dial

The Sony Alpha A6600 offers DSLR-level image quality and performs exceptionally well in low-light conditions. This means you can capture stunning, high-quality images even in challenging lighting situations. Plus, it's compact and weather-sealed, perfect for those on-the-go Instagram moments.

Another advantage is the in-body image stabilization, which is a game-changer for those who don't want to invest in a tripod. This travel camera helps to eliminate shake and ensures you get sharp, blur-free images. The selfie lovers will definitely appreciate the fact it allows you to look at yourself and practice your Instagram poses.

sony alpha a6600 camera for instagram photo sample

Photo Taken with Sony Alpha A6600

It's a bit surprising that Sony didn't include a front command dial on the A6600, as it would have greatly improved the camera's ergonomics. Additionally, the camera's memory card write speed is on the slower side.

9. Olympus E-M10 Mark IV

5-axis image stabilization
olympus e m10 mark iv camera for instagram

Type: Mirrorless | Megapixels: 20 MP | Lens mount: Micro Four Thirds lenses | Video: 4K | Weight: 13.51 oz

  • ✚ Flip-down LCD
  • ✚ Digital teleconverter button
  • ✚ Portable design
  • ✚ Improved AF system
  • Tracking mode may require practice to master
  • Rolling shutter and false color artifacts in 4K video
  • Limited to Micro Four Thirds sensor size

First off, the E-M10 Mark IV is specifically designed for photography beginners and those looking to upgrade from their smartphones. It's super user-friendly, with a revamped UI and a simplified menu that can be navigated with your finger. Plus, it has a Live Guide feature that provides tips and helps you experiment with picture adjustments, which is great for learning and improving your photography skills.

olympus e m10 mark iv camera for instagram photo sample

Photo Taken with Olympus E-M10 Mark IV

One of the standout features of this camera for Instagram is its flip-down LCD and high-definition EVF, making it perfect for capturing and sharing images with your mobile phone. The 5-axis image stabilization is also a game-changer, ensuring your photos and videos come out steady and smooth.

While the E-M10 Mark IV offers great image quality, especially at lower ISO settings, it may not perform as well in high-contrast scenes. Another thing to keep in mind is that the camera's tracking mode, although improved, may take some practice to master.

10. Canon EOS M50 Mark II

Snapbridge technology
canon eos m50 mark ii camera for instagram

Type: Mirrorless | Megapixels: 24.1 MP | Lens mount: Canon EF line (requires adapter) | Video: 4K | Weight: 13.65 oz

  • ✚ Vertical video mode
  • ✚ Built-in premium quality flash
  • ✚ Compact size
  • ✚ User-friendly camera app
  • No advanced features
  • Lack of in-body image stabilization
  • Limited lens options

Being one of the best cameras for Instagram means you can expect high-quality images with great detail. This is perfect for fashion influencers like me who want to showcase the intricate details of clothing and accessories.

The camera also has the ability to record 4K video, so you can create stunning videos for your IGTV or YouTube channel.

One of the standout features of this vlogging camera is its ability to create vertical videos for social media platforms. As we all know, vertical videos are the way to go for Instagram Stories and Reels, and this camera makes it super easy to capture content in that format.

Plus, it has a 3-inch vari-angle LCD monitor, which is great for vloggers like me who need to see themselves while filming.

canon eos m50 mark ii camera for instagram photo sample

Photo Taken with Canon EOS M50 Mark II

While it does offer great features, it may not have the advanced capabilities that professional photographers are looking for. The camera does not have in-body image stabilization, which can lead to shaky footage if you're not using a tripod or stabilizer.

11. Olympus Tough TG-6

Waterproof design
olympus tough tg 6 camera for instagram

Type: Compact | Megapixels: 12 MP | Lens mount: - | Video: 4K | Weight: 8.92 oz

  • ✚ Suitable for adventurous activities
  • ✚ Built-in Wi-Fi and GPS
  • ✚ Ability to control the camera remotely
  • ✚ Variety of accessories available for customization
  • Poor battery life
  • Unreliable wireless implementation
  • Difficult access to battery compartment

One of the biggest advantages of the TG-6 is its ruggedness. It's waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, crushproof, and even freeze proof. So, whether you're snorkeling, kayaking, or even rock climbing, this Instagram camera can handle it all. It's built to survive anything you throw at it.

But it's not just about durability, this camera packs a punch in terms of features too. It has built-in WiFi, so you can easily share your pictures on Instagram, and GPS tagging, which is great for keeping track of where you took your amazing shots.

olympus tough tg 6 camera for instagram photo sample

Photo Taken with Olympus Tough TG-6

Plus, you can control the camera remotely using the OI Share app, which is super convenient.

The battery life of the TG-6 is not great. You'll find yourself needing to recharge it often, which can be a hassle, especially when you're out on your adventures. And the wireless implementation can be unreliable at times, which can be frustrating when you're trying to quickly share your photos.

12. Canon EOS Rebel T7

Remote control with a smartphone
canon eos rebel t7 camera for instagram

Type: DSLR | Megapixels: 24.1 MP | Lens mount: Canon EF lenses | Video: Full HD | Weight: 16.76 oz

  • ✚ Easy to use
  • ✚ Integrated optical viewfinder
  • ✚ Great picture quality
  • ✚ Flash Sync input
  • Lacks touchscreen controls
  • Autofocus issues
  • Plastic body

The mix of a reasonable cost, solid feature set, and good picture quality make the Rebel T7 an attractive cheap camera for experienced photographers with a limited budget and a capable camera for amateur photographers.

canon eos rebel t7 camera for instagram photo sample

Photo Taken with Canon EOS Rebel T7

Even though its functionality isn’t as cutting-edge as what you’ll see in premium models and it lacks touchscreen controls or a rotatable LCD, the features that are there provide everything you need to conveniently control the camera and take high-quality photos.

One of the main downsides is the plastic body. While it helps keep the camera lightweight, it does feel less durable compared to some other models. Additionally, the camera's autofocus, while generally good, can sometimes struggle in certain situations, especially in low light or fast-paced scenarios.

IMAGE NAME FEATURES
fujifilm x s10 camera
Fujifilm X-S10
OUR CHOICE
  • Mirrorless
  • 26.1MP
  • 4K
CHECK PRICE
nikon z 50 camera for instagram
Nikon Z 50
COMPACT
  • Mirrorless
  • 20.9MP
  • 4K
CHECK PRICE
panasonic lumix g100 camera
Panasonic LUMIX G100
BUDGET
  • Mirrorless
  • 20.3MP
  • 4K
CHECK PRICE

How to Choose the Best Camera for Instagram?

If you have no idea how to choose the best model among numerous social media cameras on the market, but still want to have a successful Instagram these tips will help you.

camera for instagram weight

Weight and size. Firstly, your device should be light enough so that you can always carry it with you. It has to be compact, but not too small. The best variant is when the camera fits in your hand, so you can easily take selfies.

Image quality. Good image quality is the most important feature of a good camera for Instagram pictures. It should be capable of taking photos without much digital noise in dim light conditions. Choose something with 15MP and up.

AF system. A smart auto mode and remarkable autofocus are a great advantage, especially if you are a beginner and can't cope with all those camera adjustments. A good autofocus system will help you shoot gorgeous photos even if you don’t know how to control the camera, ISO settings, and dials.

camera for instagram

Connectivity options. Wireless capabilities help quickly transfer your photos to a smartphone for further image processing and uploading to a social network.

camera for instagram

Battery life. It is very significant because usually we take photos for Instagram while walking or traveling. So, it is better to choose a model that can take more pictures at one charge.

You can also use special tricks that will help make the battery last a long time, in addition to picking a high-quality camera for IG photos with a good battery. One of these things is optimizing auto-save settings. In addition, many photographers believe that the battery needs to be warm.

FAQ

  • • What is the most popular camera type used by Instagrammers?

Since the image quality provided by phone cameras has improved significantly, most Instagram content creators, including Khaby Lame, Chiara Ferragni, Cameron Dallas, employ smartphones for taking and uploading photos.

However, the ones that want to set themselves apart from the competition by delivering higher-quality images with a better dynamic range, purchase one of the DSLR and mirrorless cameras used by professional photographers instead.

  • • What is the best camera for Instagram today?

One camera that stands out is the Fujifilm X-S10. It's perfect for all you photographers and videographers, especially vloggers. With its fast burst mode and impressive autofocus capabilities, you can capture those perfect moments effortlessly.

  • • What is the optimal number of megapixels for Instagram posts?

Instagram posts have a resolution of 1080x1080pixels (1.2MP), which is a very small size by current standards but still an improvement over the original 640x640pixel resolution that was the norm for nearly 5 years.

  • • How to choose the best Instagram camera?

When it comes to choosing the best camera for IG pictures, image quality is key. You want a camera that can produce high-quality pictures, especially in different lighting conditions. So, check out the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO settings. These play a crucial role in capturing stunning shots.

But wait, we can't forget about videos! Nowadays, video content is booming on Instagram. So, if you want to join the trend, look for a camera that can deliver high-quality videos. Features like a wide-angle lens and 4K resolution are essential for crisp and clear footage.

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