Can’t choose the best camera for fashion photography that is affordable? Would you like to know what experienced photographers in the beauty and fashion industry recommend? What cameras are in demand for professional fashion shooting? I will try to answer these questions by giving you a brief review of 10 beauty and fashion photography cameras and lenses typically used for fashion or commercial photography.
10 Best Cameras for Fashion Photography
There are several factors that determine the best camera for fashion photography. First of all, it is the possibility to select compatible lenses. The camera’s small weight is also desirable, especially for fashion shows. Plus, you must take into account the battery life of your camera body.
In this review, there are 10 cameras in various price categories and for various styles of fashion photography that I recommend you test.
1. Canon EOS-5D Mark III
Canon EOS-5DMarkIII is probably one of the most popular cameras for fashion shooting. It has a full-frame CMOS sensor with an image resolution of 30.4 megapixels, thereby providing a detailed image. One of the advantages of this best camera for fashion photography is its small weight. It is comfortable both for carrying and for use during modeling shooting. I like that photos are quite clear at all ISO levels. As a result, you can capture the characteristic features of your models.
I’d like to note the excellent focusing of this camera even in low light conditions. It is very convenient for shooting events or night fashion shots. Another important advantage of this camera, which I really like, is the ability of the viewfinder to provide a lot of information. Without taking this Canon camera away from my face, I can check and adjust metering, white balance, autofocus and driving modes. This is very convenient when I work with changing lighting conditions, like during a fashion show.
Recommended lens for fashion photography:
Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L USM
This is one of the most popular standard lenses among photographers. It provides a soft blur and thanks to the wide aperture you get a narrow depth of field. The developers have taken care to minimize glare and ghosting.
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Photo taken by Canon EOS-5D Mark III 2. Nikon D7100
Nikon D7100 is another excellent commercial fashion photography camera. It has two useful slots for SD cards and this 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. It is fast, accurate and confident 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 for fashion photography:
Nikon AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G
This lens is great for modeling shooting in various lighting conditions. The maximum aperture of f/1.8 allows you to focus on the object and get a slightly blurred background. This is an excellent lens for fashion portrait photography, including close-up portrait fashion shooting.
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Photo taken by Nikon D7100
- View more about the best cameras for photography beginners in fashion and modeling photography.
3. Canon EOS 7D Mark II
Canon EOS 7D Mark II can reach a burst speed of 10 frames/s. That is enough for high-quality work with a model in the studio. The strongest side of this device is the autofocus. Autofocus points cover almost the entire frame. This is one of the best cameras for model photography because it focuses on the object at the first attempt without problems. Besides, its autofocus is very fast and that makes it possible to work with moving models at shows.
In addition, I like that an object that might suddenly appear between me and the model does not confuse automatics. This camera continues to hold the object sharp and doesn’t hurry to refocus. In general, I want to note that this is a real workhorse with the fashion shooting functionality brought to the ideal. What kind of portrait fashion shooting I wouldn’t have, I can confidently rely on Canon EOS 7D Mark II and convey the atmosphere of the event with high detail and excellent color reproduction.
Recommended lens for fashion photography:
Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM
If you need the best lens for studio fashion photography or shooting at fashion shows, then pay attention to this model. It has a rounded aperture and fast autofocus, and it is capable of creating a shallow depth of field.
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Photo taken by Canon EOS 7D Mark II
- Read more about the best cameras for professional photography.
4. Nikon D3300
Nikon D3300 is an ideal DSLR camera for fashion photography because it offers good fashion portrait features — bright, vibrant colors with 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. For entry-level DSLRs, this is the best fashion camera 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 for fashion photography:
Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED
This is the best lens for fashion photography, covering focal lengths from wide-angle to fashion portrait fashion shooting. You can always capture any objects, from the city landscapes to dynamic HD shots.
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Photo taken by Nikon D3300
- Check out what is the best mirrorless camera for fashion bloggers.
5. Canon 5D Mark II
When it comes to picture quality, I always recommend Canon 5DMarkII. It seems to me that it has the clearest photos I have ever had. I like that this camera takes very clear images at all ISO levels. Of course, some users complain that this device makes the image too sharp. But if you work in the fashion industry and take pictures of a large format, this is its main advantage.
This fashion camera has some flaws. For example, it takes more time than usual to adjust settings. Therefore, most of the time, I use it exclusively for work in the studio, but not at shows. But all these drawbacks aren’t so important after you see your pictures that are sharp, rich, and excellent on a large printed canvas.
Recommended lens for fashion photography:
Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM ArtLens
This model is considered the best lens for fashion show. Incredible bokeh and impressive sharpness are the undoubted advantages of this lens. You can get excellent results not only with a full aperture but also after setting it to one or two stops.
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Photo taken by Canon 5D Mark II
- Check out my list of the best cheap cameras for photography.
6. Pentax K-70
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 the best camera 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. 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 for fashion photography:
Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG HSM Art
This Sigma 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 photography.
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Photo taken by Pentax K-70 7. Canon EOS 70D
Canon EOS 70D is distinguished by a 20.2-megapixel CMOS sensor that operates together with the DIGIC 5+ image processor. This powerful combination essentially gives you the ability to produce qualitative images with incredible detail and superior clarity that makes fabrics and clothes look bright and attractive. For that reason, I rightfully call this model a praiseworthy camera for fashion photography.
I really like the ultra-fast and accurate autofocus system, which allows me to capture the movement of bright and exciting fashion outfits that really enliven shots. Finally, 70D also boasts of 100-12800ISO range, with the ability to expand to 25600. This makes it a great companion for a number of different fashion portrait shooting conditions. I can safely take my shots outside without worrying about losing image quality.
Recommended lens for fashion photography:
Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM
A recent addition to the L-Series of EF optics was improved to satisfy the requirements in terms of picture quality. This zoom lens pleases professional fashion photographers with premium reliable build, terrific optics and stunning capacity.
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Photo taken by Canon EOS 70D 8. Canon Rebel T7i
Thanks to its fast processor and large 24.2 MP sensor, Canon EOS Rebel T7i provides 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.
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 for fashion photography:
Zeiss Planar T* 85mm f/1.4 ZF.2
Not every lens may compete with Canon EF lens mount, but Zeiss managed to produce one. This first-class model fully replaces manual focus with its 250 degrees and ensures that you determine the focus point correctly.
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Photo taken by Canon Rebel T7i 9. Sony a9
Sony A9 turned out to be a breakthrough and revolutionary model. Its fashion shooting functions are based on a new full-frame multi-layer CMOS matrix with integrated memory. The most obvious advantage is the speed of burst shooting. It is capable of reaching up to 20 fps in full resolution with tracking autofocus and metering for each frame. I enjoy this feature during fashion shows and dynamic scene fashion shooting.
I also like the electronic viewfinder with its indistinguishable individual points that make up the image. The picture is lively and realistic, and there are no delays. I would also like to note that the camera body is made of metal and features dust and moisture protection. In terms of fashion shooting, the camera boasts of great details and accurate color rendering. The colors are rich, vivid, and without distortions, which is a must for the best camera for beauty photography.
Recommended lens for fashion photography:
Sony (SEL85F18) FE 85mm F1.8
This first-rate lens has compact dimensions and light weight. Owing to its 9-blade swift F1.8 aperture, it is capable of producing outstanding blur background effects. Besides, the model satisfies users with a reliable, water-proof and dust-proof design.
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Photo taken by Sony a9 10. Nikon D610
In comparison with the majority of 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 the biggest advantage of this model isn’t speed and accuracy, but 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 low light environment.
No matter how marvelous Nikon D610 is, it still has some downsides. For instance, the device is deprived of image stabilizer and Wi-Fi connectivity. So, if these functions are relevant to you, I suggest you opt for Nikon D610. All in all, it is the best DSLR camera, which doesn’t cost a fortune for fashion-related photo shoots.
Recommended lens for fashion photography:
Nikon AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G
Mid-range telephoto lens with a large aperture for SLR cameras in FX and DX formats. Being an ideal model for commercial fashion photography, it perfectly combines the classic focal length and high-speed aperture.
Photo taken by Nikon D610 List of 10 Best Cameras for Fashion Photography
| Image | Name | Details | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Canon EOS-5D Mark III
OUR CHOICE |
CHECK PRICE→ | |
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Nikon D7100
|
CHECK PRICE→ | |
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Canon EOS 7D Mark II
|
CHECK PRICE→ | |
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Nikon D3300
BUDGET |
CHECK PRICE→ | |
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Canon 5D Mark II
BEST DSLR |
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Pentax K-70
FOR BEGINNERS |
CHECK PRICE→ | |
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Canon EOS 70D
|
CHECK PRICE→ | |
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Canon Rebel T7i
|
CHECK PRICE→ | |
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Sony a9
BEST MIRRORLESS |
CHECK PRICE→ | |
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Nikon D610
|
CHECK PRICE→ |
How to Choose the Best Camera for Fashion Photography
There are several primary points you need to take into account while selecting the best camera for fashion photography:
1. Flash Sync
If you are frequently using strobe lights when fashion shooting in a studio or on a particular location, the end result greatly depends on flash sync speed. Proper flash speed of a fashion camera is swift and simultaneously pretty slow to entirely coincide with the used lighting kit.
2. ISO Range
Even though it isn’t the most significant parameter, a decent ISO range in the best camera for fashion photography is desirable. ISO 100 is generally the lowest value in the range. It enables you to regulate the light setting on the camera so that it fully corresponds to the chosen aperture.
3. 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.
4. Focus System
When picking the best camera for fashion photography, don’t forget to check its ability to focus. Certain models possess fewer AF points. It is mainly a matter of a genre of photography you most frequently work in. For instance, fashion photography requires from 15 to 30 AF points. A value bigger than 30 is a definite plus. Bear in mind that in many cases, the shooting environment determines your fashion photography.
Ann Young
Hi there, I'm Ann Young - a professional blogger, read more
