10 Best Cameras for Fashion Photography to Buy in 2024

Top-rated cameras for fashion photography.

top 3 cameras for fashion photography

Even if you find a beautiful model for fashion shooting, you won’t be able to get professional results unless you have a good camera. When selecting a camera, make sure to consider its specs. The best cameras for fashion photography are fitted with full-frame or cropped sensors. The latter are more suitable for those who are on a budget. You can also buy a camera that comes with an APS-C sensor.

When planning your budget, keep in mind that you will need to pay between $1,500 and $2,000 for a decent model. However, you can also purchase cameras with prices ranging from $500 to $4,500. It allows you to select the best option for your needs regardless of your budget.

Top 10 Best Cameras for Fashion Photography

  1. Canon 5D Mark IV - The best camera for fashion photography
  2. Nikon D7100 - Excellent burst speed
  3. Nikon D850 - Long battery life
  4. Nikon D3300 - Perfect Auto Mode performance
  5. Sony a7R III - Compact
  6. Pentax K-70 - Budget
  7. Canon 70D - High responsiveness
  8. Canon Rebel T7i - Wide dynamic range
  9. Canon EOS 80D - Stylish
  10. Nikon D610 - Ergonomic body

When compiling this list, I was selecting cameras that fit several criteria. They have decent stabilization and impressive battery capacity. Besides, these models are easy to handle and allow taking high-quality photos. They support Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, which enables you to quickly share your photos and upload them to your PC.

In this review, I will tell you about the main features that you need to consider to select a great camera for fashion photography.

1. Canon 5D Mark IV – Our Choice

The best camera for fashion photography
canon 5d mark iv camera for fashion photography

Type: DSLR | Sensor size: 36 x 24 mm | Resolution: 30.4 MP | Screen type: LCD | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 7 fps

  • ✚ Unlimited JPEG buffer
  • ✚ Impressive dynamic range
  • ✚ Quick performance, mode switching
  • ✚ RAW images with high resolution
  • None
Rating

The Canon 5D Mark IV is considered to be one of the best Canon cameras since it allows taking photos with rich and accurate colors. It’s a perfect option for fashion photographers who are looking for a camera that can be used for long shooting sessions.

Professional portrait photographers will be pleased to discover that its autofocus is pretty quick and has a wide coverage area. This model has 61-point AF and a Dual Pixel AF, which accounts for faster face tracking and identification. The 5D Mark IV is the first full-frame model released by Canon that supports continuous focusing. To use this feature, I switch to its Live View mode.

Just like other cameras by this brand, this model is easy to use and has a durable body. It comes with a touchscreen and an integrated Wi-Fi module. This camera has all the features that are important for photographers who need to take photos for fashion magazines.

Recommended lens:

Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L USM

This is one of the most popular standard lenses for fashion photography. It provides a soft blur. Thanks to the wide aperture you get a narrow depth of field. The developers have taken care to minimize glare and ghosting.

fashion photo sample

Photo taken by Canon 5D Mark IV

2. Nikon D7100

Excellent burst speed
nikon d7100 camera for fashion photography

Type: DSLR | Sensor size: 23.5 x 15.6 mm | Resolution: 24.1 MP | Screen type: LCD | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 6 fps

  • ✚ High image detail
  • ✚ Advanced ergonomics
  • ✚ Fast autofocus
  • ✚ A flexible algorithm of automatic ISO setting
  • Control options are difficult for a starter
  • ISO and white balance buttons are on the left side
  • High quality requirements for optics
Rating

The Nikon D7100 has two useful slots for SD cards. It makes it possible to take more RAW shots to get the perfect picture. By the way, I liked that it can shoot at the speed of 6 frames per second in the RAW + JPG format. It is not so much, but it is great for fashion shows or dynamic portrait fashion shooting.

Focusing deserves special attention. This Nikon photography camera is fast and accurate even in poor lighting conditions. Detailing and color rendition of this DSLR camera are excellent.

I was impressed that you can capture the most complex lines and textures of clothing. The camera control is designed for experienced photographers. It will be quite difficult for starters to handle it.

Recommended lens:

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G

This Nikon lens is suitable for capturing great photos in different lighting conditions. Thanks to the max aperture of f/3.5, you can make the background look blurred. This lens will come in handy to portrait photographers who enjoy taking close-up photos.

fashion image

Photo taken by Nikon D7100

3. Nikon D850

For professional photographers
nikon d850 camera for fashion photography

Type: DSLR | Sensor size: 35.9 mm x 23.9 mm | Resolution: 45.7 MP | Screen type: LCD | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 9 fps

  • ✚ Excellent results
  • ✚ Large viewfinder
  • ✚ Easy-to-tilt touchscreen
  • ✚ Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support
  • Heavy and takes up a lot of space
  • No integrated flash
Rating

Featuring an excellent large viewfinder and a full-frame 45.7 MP sensor, the Nikon D850 is a perfect camera for those who are interested in taking high-resolution photos. It allows you to capture pictures with a great level of detail. This camera supports an impressive dynamic range, which makes it suitable for those who need to capture shows and special events.

The key selling point of the D850 is that it supports high-accuracy color rendering, which enables users to capture beautiful skin tones. When using it, you don’t need to worry that some areas of your pictures might become underexposed. Even when you use it at high ISO settings in poor-light situations, your images will be free of noise.

The camera supports a Wi-Fi connection, which enables you to transfer your pictures quickly. However, this model is quite heavy and doesn’t support image stabilization. If you don’t have a tripod and want to take high-clarity photos, you might need to consider another model.

Recommended lens:

Nikon 50mm f/1.8G

The AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G is a perfect option to consider if you are looking for a powerful lens for taking photos every day. It boasts a 50mm focal length with a quick f/1.8 aperture, which enables you to use it for snapping attention-grabbing photos with a shallow DoF. Thanks to it, you can emphasize the main subject and slightly blur the background.

fashion photo taken with nikon d850 camera

Photo taken by Nikon D850

4. Nikon D3300

Perfect Auto Mode performance
nikon d3300 camera for fashion photography

Type: DSLR | Sensor size: 23.5 mm. x 15.6 mm | Resolution: 24.2 MP | Screen type: LCD | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 5 fps

  • ✚ Long battery life
  • ✚ Great for newbies
  • ✚ Decent picture quality
  • ✚ Extra white light AF assist is built-in
  • You need an external adapter for Wi-Fi
  • There is only one slot for an SD card
  • UI doesn’t work perfectly

The Nikon D3300 is an ideal camera for amateur photographers that offers good fashion portrait features. It allows you to take photos with bright, vibrant colors and precise, even skin tones. Even using a flash, there was almost no red-eye effect in my pictures.

It is very convenient and also saves time during picture editing. When it comes to DSLRs for newbies, it is one of the best cameras for fashion photography that offers a huge sensor. This is fantastic news for photographers, who want to make large prints, such as billboards.

I like fast focusing, excellent shutter response, and continuous modeling shooting at 5 frames per second in RAW + JPG format. This allows me to concentrate on the fashion shooting process and not be afraid that I’ll lack time to get the desired frame.

Recommended lens:

NIKON NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8

The camera is fitted with a pro-grade mid-range zoom, which makes it suitable for those who need to shoot fashion shows, landscapes, or cityscapes. I like taking it with me on a walk or using it to take photos outside. It allows me to get clear pictures with great resolution and impressive bokeh.

fashion picture

Photo taken by Nikon D3300

5. Sony a7R III

Compact
sony a7r iii camera for fashion photography

Type: Mirrorless | Sensor size: 36 x 24 mm | Resolution: 42 MP | Screen type: LCD | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 10 fps

  • ✚ Photo and video camera with hybrid AF
  • ✚ Powerful 42MP full-frame sensor
  • ✚ 10fps image capture with tracking
  • ✚ Tilting LCD
  • Expensive
  • Limited touchscreen adjustment options
  • Comes without an XQD card slot
Rating

This mirrorless camera is known for its effective light transmission. With it, I took great RAW images and easily processed them afterward. Thanks to its 693 phase-detection AF points covering 93% of the frame, this camera is perfect for fashion photographers who specialize in portraits.

Even if you don’t have time to adjust the settings manually, you can use the camera in AF mode. It supports 425 contrast zones and can quickly detect the main object in the frame, which accounts for quicker autofocusing.

The Sony a7R III is known for its impressive sensitivity of up to -3 EV, which allows me to focus it even in poor light conditions. This model can be considered as a part of essential photography gear for catwalk photographers and other professionals that specialize in taking fashion photos.

Recommended lens:

Sony FE 24-70 mm F2.8

To make the most out of this camera, try using this lens. It’s perfect for portrait, travel, and event photographers. Besides, it will come in handy for taking candid photos. It consists of three aspherical elements, including the XA element that minimizes distortion and allows you to take high-resolution photos regardless of the zoom and aperture you are using.

fashion pic

Photo taken by Sony a7R III

6. Pentax K-70

Budget
pentax k70 camera for fashion photography

Type: DSLR | Sensor size: 23.5 x 15.6mm | Resolution: 24.2 MP | Screen type: LCD | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 6 fps

  • ✚ Remarkable image resolution
  • ✚ Protection from water splashes
  • ✚ WLAN and rotatable display
  • ✚ Autofocus with phase detection
  • Autofocus in Live View mode
  • Short burst modeling shooting
  • Poorly developed video mode
Rating

I like that Pentax K-70 not only generates beautiful and sharp fashion portraits, but it is very easy and pleasant to work with. Therefore, I can confidently advise it to amateurs as one of the best cameras for fashion photography. Thanks to the 24-megapixel sensor, I enjoy a good shallow depth of field in fashion portraits and still have plenty of space for framing. The shots are very clear.

Combined with the right lenses, the device may assist you in achieving an impressively beautiful bokeh. That’s why most often I use it for fashion portrait photography when it is necessary to put the main emphasis on hair, jewelry or make-up.

I would also like to note the incredible image stabilization, which helps avoid camera shake even at large focal lengths and increased exposure. Even in low light, you'll get clear fashion portraits that are perfect for shooting models and couture shows.

Recommended lens:

Sigma 50mm F1.4

This lens is setting brand new standards for the Art line with its revised, modernized design and functionality. It will be a perfect match for fashion portraiture, landscapes, street and studio photos.

fashion photoshoot

Photo taken by Pentax K-70

7. Fujifilm X-T4

For street fashion photographers
fujifilm x t4 camera for fashion photography

Type: Mirrorless | Sensor size: 23.5 mm x 15.6 mm | Resolution: 26.1 MP | Screen type: LCD | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 15 fps

  • ✚ High ISO
  • ✚ Electronic viewfinder
  • ✚ 5-axis in-built picture stabilization
  • ✚ Ultra-sonic vibration sensor cleaning system
  • A flip-eschewal screen
  • Large lowest shadowing focus area
Rating

The Fujifilm X-T4 is an impressive camera for street fashion photographers as it supports up to 6.5 stops of image stabilization. It enables you to take high-clarity images without any visible blur.

Thanks to it, you can use this camera in handheld mode. The in-built picture stabilizer will cope with its task even when you shoot at 15fps.

You won’t face any difficulties when capturing fast-moving subjects or taking candid photos, which makes this camera perfectly suitable for fashion photographers.

This camera has ISO ranging from 80 to 52000, which allows you to use it in settings with different lighting. You can quickly focus on your subject even on the street.

What I like the most about this camera is that it is small and lightweight. It has a speedy mechanical shutter and a quick hybrid AF, which enables you to take sharp and clear photos.

Recommended lens:

Fujinon XF56mm F1.2 R

This fast F1.2 lens stands out for its 85mm focal length, which enables you to create a mesmerizing bokeh effect. It makes it perfectly suitable for taking fashion portraits. The lens delivers a powerful performance due to its optical design with 11 elements in 8 groups.

fashion photo taken with fujifilm x t4

Photo taken by Fujifilm X-T4

8. Canon Rebel T7i

Wide dynamic range
canon rebel t7i camera for fashion photography

Type: DSLR | Sensor size: 22.3 x 14.9mm | Resolution: 24.2 MP | Screen type: LCD | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 7 fps

  • ✚ 45 AF points while looking through the viewfinder
  • ✚ Dual Pixel CMOS AF
  • ✚ Screen assistant mode for newbies
  • ✚ Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth modules
  • Not the largest frame coverage in the viewfinder
  • Inability to directly select the AF point in the viewfinder
  • Lacks manual white balance setup
Rating

Thanks to its fast processor and large 24.2 MP sensor, the Canon EOS Rebel T7i increased sensitivity and fast operation. Exactly these features make it an ideal fashion photography camera. I really like that the ISO range can be extended to 51200. Even at the highest ISO value and in low light conditions, the device is still capable of generating clear shots.

The Canon EOS Rebel T7i is perfect for shooting moving models thanks to its optimized AF system. So, I frequently bring it with me to fashion shows. I would also like to note that the model can provide outstanding image quality with excellent detail and clarity.

Besides, the optical viewfinder built into the device makes it much easier to preview the shot before you release the shutter, eliminating the necessity to take multiple pictures.

Recommended lens:

Rokinon RK12M-M 12mm F2.0

I set my f-stop to f/2.0 to capture more light when I take photos in the evening. Sometimes, I adjust the depth of field to focus on my main subject and make the background blurrier. The inner surface of the two from-end elements has the nano-crystal coating, which accounts for reduced ghosting and allows me to take images without any sign of blur or flare.

fashion photo

Photo taken by Canon Rebel T7i

9. Canon EOS 80D

High responsiveness
canon eos 80d camera for fashion photography

Type: DSLR | Sensor size: APS-C | Resolution: 24.2MP | Screen type: LCD | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 7fps

  • ✚ Easy-to-rotate two-axis screen
  • ✚ Touchscreen with advanced features
  • ✚ Informative on-screen prompts
  • ✚ Protected against dust and moisture
  • Only one memory card slot
  • Poor battery capacity
  • The subpar in-built image stabilizer
Rating

Canon EOS 80D is popular among fashion photographers who are looking for a camera with handy controls. Its menu is easy to navigate as it is conveniently organized by categories. You can quickly switch between different exposure modes using a topside knurled dial. Depending on your skills, you can shoot in manual, semi-automatic and fully automatic modes.

What makes it the best camera for fashion photography is that you can use it to capture pictures with perfectly saturated colors and a high level of detail. It allows you to minimize the shadow noise, which makes it better than the earlier model in this lineup, the 70D. It enables you to snap clear and detailed pics of the highest quality. Thanks to it, you can capture the beauty of fabrics and clothes. All these features make this model a must for fashion photographers who want to get professional photos.

You will be especially pleased with the viewfinder. It’s quite bright and boasts 100% coverage with .95x magnification. What I like about this camera is that it’s fitted with a quick, high-precision AF system. Using it, you can easily capture models in beautiful outfits. It’s suitable for shooting moving subjects, so you don’t need to worry about blurry images. 

Recommended lens:

Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8 L IS USM

After an upgrade, this lens with RF optics meets all modern requirements and allows for capturing high-quality photos. This is everything a professional photographer might ever need. The lens features excellent optics and has a durable build. You will be impressed with its amazing capabilities especially when you pair it with the best camera for fashion photography.

fashion image sample

Photo taken by Canon EOS 80D

10. Nikon D610

Ergonomic body
nikon d610 camera for fashion photography

Type: DSLR | Sensor size: 141 x 113 x 82 mm | Resolution: 24 MP | Screen type: LCD | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 6 fps

  • ✚ Full-frame matrix
  • ✚ Time-lapse shooting and HDR
  • ✚ Decent optical viewfinder
  • ✚ Quiet modeling shooting mode
  • Relatively large size and weight
  • Complicated interface for a beginner
  • Autofocus points are grouped close to the center of the frame
Rating

In comparison with the majority of dynamic range cameras from Nikon, this model catches the eye with its accurate white balance system and a faster frame rate. Those, who constantly shoot at fashion events or shows and don’t want to disturb the audience, would surely appreciate the almost silent continuous fashion portrait shooting mode.

However, I believe that what makes it a truly great fashion photography camera isn’t its speed and accuracy, but the remarkable clarity and details of the taken image.

I like the color rendering of the skin tones – this is undoubtedly the strong point of the camera, mainly thanks to the impressive sensor. Thus, it may be awarded the status of the best camera for model photography. Besides, I easily capture details in shadow areas and use high ISO values to produce relatively noiseless pictures even in a low-light environment.

Recommended lens:

Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8E

This lens offers excellent performance in low light, sports, nature, events, weddings, and lifestyle photos. In order to eliminate chromatic aberrations and color fringing and provide a clear, sharp image, the current version has six extra-low dispersion components, one fluorite component, and one high refractive index element.

fashion pics sample

Photo taken by Nikon D610

IMAGE NAME FEATURES
canon 5d mark iv image
Canon 5D Mark IV
OUR CHOICE
  • High image quality
  • Great dynamic range
  • Speedy startup
CHECK PRICE
nikon d7100 image
Nikon D7100
DURABLE
  • Advanced ergonomics
  • Fast autofocus
  • Great image quality
CHECK PRICE
nikon d850 camera
Nikon D850
FOR PROS
  • Excellent results
  • Large viewfinder
  • Easy-to-tilt touchscreen
CHECK PRICE

How to Choose a Good Camera for Fashion Photography?

To select a camera that allows you to take great images, you need to consider several main aspects that affect the quality of the shooting. When choosing the best camera for fashion photography, focus on these parameters.

Image Stabilization

Pro-level cameras have decent optical image stabilization thanks to dedicated lens elements that can be shifted to minimize blur and make your photos clearer. Many photographers find it difficult to hold a camera still when they use it with long-zoom lenses. This is why it’s crucial to select a model that supports image stabilization. Many DSLR cameras have this feature.

Some models are fitted with sensor-shift stabilization systems also known as IBIS. Thanks to these in-built image stabilization features, the camera sensor can be physically moved to minimize vibrations. Such systems are used in most mirrorless cameras because of their high effectiveness.

A Number of Metering Zones and Focus Points

A higher number doesn’t mean that you will get high-quality photos. A camera for fashion photography with 6 focus points might be just as good as the one with 30 focus points. However, it might be a good idea to buy a model with a higher number of focus points if it has the tracking AF feature.

Flash Sync

If you frequently experiment with different studio lighting kits when taking photos indoors, the end result greatly depends on flash sync speed. The proper flash speed of a fashion camera is swift and simultaneously pretty slow to entirely coincide with the used lighting kit.

Price

Even if you are on a tight budget, you will easily find an affordable model that meets your needs. While the newest cameras often cost more than $1800, you will need to pay about $700 for decent budget models. If you want to improve your skills but don’t have much money to spend, it’s better to opt for mid-tier cameras that cost about $1200. They have all the necessary features that you might need for taking fashion photos.

Adaptability

If you are looking for a good camera for fashion photography, pay attention to its adaptability. For instance, if you specialize in several photography genres, it might be a good idea to buy a camera with an ultra-wide-angle lens. Whether you are a professional photographer or beginner, make sure to select a model with wide functionality and a good lens.

ISO Range

Even though it isn’t the most significant parameter, it’s better to buy a camera with a decent ISO range. ISO 100 is generally the lowest value in the range, but if you are also shopping for the best camera for landscape photography, choose a device that can go twice higher. It enables you to regulate the light setting on the camera so that it fully corresponds to the chosen aperture.

Battery Life

Your fashion photography equipment, especially the camera, must accompany you throughout the whole event. Of course, events typically take up less time than photo sessions, but still, the longer battery life is, the better. This is also relevant if you are shopping for the best camera for photographing artwork.

The Fastest Shutter Speed

choosing the best camera for fashion photography

This feature is especially useful for taking photos of moving objects. Think about which shutter speed you need, 1/2000 or 1/8000. By changing the shutter speed, you can adjust sharpness when taking photos on a bright day. To darken the frame, you can also use affordable filters. Keep in mind that there is a significant price difference between cameras that support 1/2000 or 1/4000 shutter speeds.

WI-FI & Bluetooth

Make sure to buy a fashion photography camera that allows you to share files via Wi-Fi. Thanks to it, you will be able to quickly transfer your files to your desktop computer or laptop for further editing. While many cameras support a Wi-Fi connection, some photographers prefer using Bluetooth to quickly upload their photos to social networks.

Upgradability

how to choose camera for fashion photography

If you are a beginner, it makes sense to invest in a camera that you can use for years. However, if you already have some experience and want to improve your skills even further, then it’s better to buy a more advanced camera that can be easily upgraded. Those who are on a budget can buy entry level DSLRs for an affordable price. However, even if you opt for a cheap camera, it’s better to select an option with more advanced features.

FAQ

  • • What cameras are popular among fashion bloggers?

The type of camera used by a fashion blogger usually depends on the content they are shooting. If a photographer enjoys taking photos of street life, they can even use an iPhone instead of a camera. Lifestyle and beauty bloggers use a variety of photography gear, including professional digital cameras for photography, like the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV.

  • • What should I do to take pro-level fashion images?

Make sure to learn how to adjust the camera settings for portraits to avoid spending a lot of time on post-processing. You need to experiment with different camera angles, select the right exposure, and set up lighting. After taking pictures, you can further enhance them with the help of professional photo editing software, such as Photoshop or Lightroom.

  • • Which camera should I choose, with a cropped or full-frame sensor?

When selecting a fashion photography camera, you need to consider several things, including your budget and the projects you mostly work on. If you don’t have much money to spend, you can buy a crop-sensor model. Full-frame cameras have a large sensor, but it accounts for a low depth of field.

  • • Do I need to buy a reflector for taking photos in the studio?

Yes, if you want to become a professional photographer and take polished photos, you will need to use a reflector to ensure that there won’t be any shadows on the face of your model. Put the reflector opposite your subject so that it reflects light from a window or other light source on the face.

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