In this post, we'll explore the 11 best cameras for car photography that will help you get the perfect shot every time.
From DSLR to mirrorless to medium-format cameras, I covered them in detail to help you pick the right one to take your car photography to the next level.
Let's get into it.
- Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
- Canon EOS R6 II
- Canon EOS R8
- Fujifilm GFX 100S
- Fujifilm X-T5
- Nikon D850
- Nikon Z6 II
- Nikon Z7 II
- Sony a7R IV
- Sony a7 IV
- Sony a1
1. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Superior imaging prowess in a rugged, versatile body.
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV delivers exceptional image quality and performance, making it the go-to choice for capturing the beauty and power of vehicles in motion or at rest.
With DIGIC 6+ image processor, this camera delivers high-quality images and exceptional performance, making it a versatile option for capturing fast-paced car action or stills.
With its advanced autofocus system and fast continuous shooting mode, the 5D Mark IV can easily capture stunning shots of cars in motion.
5D Mark IV is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor shooting with its durable and weather-resistant design.
However, its relatively large and heavy body may not be ideal if you're after something more portable.
The Good
- 30.4MP Full-Frame Sensor: High-resolution images and excellent low-light performance.
- DIGIC 6+ Image Processor: Faster performance and improved image quality.
- 61-point Reticular AF System: Quick, precise autofocus in various lighting conditions.
- ISO 100-32,000: Flexibility in low-light situations and reduced noise.
- 7fps Continuous Shooting: Capture fast-paced action effortlessly.
- 4K Video at 30fps & Full HD at 60fps: High-quality video capture and versatile options.
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF: Smooth, accurate focus tracking in live view and video mode.
- Rugged Magnesium Alloy Body: Durability and weather sealing for challenging environments.
The Bad
- No In-Body Stabilization: Lacks built-in stabilization, requiring stabilized lenses or support equipment for steady shots.
- Limited 4K Video: 4K video recording with a 1.74x crop factor, impacting the field of view and overall video versatility.
- Heavy Body: Weighing 890g, less comfortable for extended handheld use and more cumbersome to carry.
- Expensive: Higher price compared to competitors.
- No Flip Screen: Fixed LCD screen limits shooting angles and convenience.
2. Canon EOS R6 II
Mirrorless redefined: blazing speed and precision.
Experience the next level in mirrorless photography with a camera that delivers speed, precision, and outstanding image quality.
The Canon EOS R6 II is the ultimate upgrade for any photography enthusiast looking to take their shots up a notch.
Its stellar autofocus system and advanced subject tracking make it an absolute joy to use - easily locking onto moving cars in even the most challenging conditions.
The in-body stabilization is a game-changer, ensuring your shots come out sharp, even with non-stabilized lenses.
The only things I don't like about it are its price and weight — it's expensive and quite heavy.
But even then, it's still a great choice if you're after a reliable, high-performing mirrorless option.
The Good
- 24.2 MP Full-Frame Sensor: High-resolution images with excellent dynamic range and low-light performance.
- Dual Pixel RAW / RAW Burst: Capture more detail and information for post-processing flexibility.
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF: Fast, accurate autofocus with 4,897 AF points covering 100% of the frame.
- ISO 100-102,400: Exceptional low-light flexibility and noise reduction for various shooting conditions.
- In-Body Stabilization: Up to 8 stops of shake reduction for sharper images and smoother video.
- Digital Tele-Converter: Crop images without sacrificing resolution or image quality.
- 12fps Mechanical / 40fps Electronic Burst Shooting: Capture fast action and fleeting moments with ease.
- Hybrid Auto: Automatically captures stills and video simultaneously for easy sharing and storytelling.
- 60fps 4K & 180fps FHD Video: High-quality video and slow-motion capabilities.
- OLED Viewfinder & Vari-angle Touch LCD: Clear, bright viewfinder and flexible touchscreen for easy composition and control.
The Bad
- Heavy Body: At 680g, less comfortable for extended handheld use.
- Expensive: Higher price than some competitors in its category.
3. Canon EOS R8
Unrivaled imaging power: the future of high-resolution mirrorless.
Embrace mirrorless mastery with a camera that combines high-resolution brilliance and cutting-edge performance.
When shopping for a car photography camera, you want stunning image quality, fast shooting, and excellent low-light performance.
And Canon EOS R8 has all of those, making it ideal for capturing vehicles in a wide array of lighting situations.
The R8's accurate autofocus system and subject tracking make photographing moving cars a breeze, ensuring razor-sharp, dynamic images.
And its compact and lightweight design is perfect for easy handling and portability during car events or trackside action.
However, it lacks built-in stabilization, so you probably need to invest in stabilized lenses or support equipment.
Additionally, the battery life is not the best in its class, so having spare batteries on hand could be helpful.
The Good
- 24.2MP Full-Frame Sensor: High-res images, excellent dynamic range, and low-light capabilities.
- DIGIC X Processor: Swift, powerful processing for high-speed shooting and video.
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF II: Accurate autofocus with 4,897 AF points covering 100% of the frame.
- ISO 100-102,400: Exceptional low-light flexibility and noise reduction for various shooting conditions.
- Subject Detection: AI-based recognition for enhanced tracking and focus.
- 40fps Continuous Shooting: Capture fast action and fleeting moments with ease.
- 60fps 4K & 180fps FHD Video: High-quality video, slow-motion, C-Log3, and HDR PQ support.
- Compact & Lightweight Body: Weighing 461g for easy handling and portability.
- OLED Viewfinder & Vari-angle Touch LCD: Vivid viewfinder and adaptable touchscreen for effortless composition and control.
The Bad
- No Built-In Stabilization: Lacks stabilization, requiring stabilized lenses or tripods for blur-free images.
- Poor Battery Life: Drains quickly due to high-performance features, necessitating frequent recharging or spare batteries.
4. Fujifilm GFX 100S
Medium-format marvel: astounding resolution and dynamic range.
Capture stunning detail and vibrant colors effortlessly with the medium-format marvel, transforming your photography with extraordinary precision.
If you're in the market for a top-of-the-line camera to capture breathtaking images of cars, the Fujifilm GFX 100S is worth a look.
This mirrorless camera boasts impressive image quality thanks to its 102MP sensor, which produces sharp, detailed images that will impress.
The GFX 100S features advanced autofocus technology, making it easy to track moving objects and capture stunning shots of cars in motion.
Plus, its IBIS technology ensures sharp images even in low-light conditions, which is excellent for indoor car shows or nighttime photography.
While the GFX 100S is expensive, its advanced features make it a pleasure to use. Though, its size and weight may be a downside for those prioritizing portability.
The Good
- 102MP Medium Format Sensor: Ultra-high resolution, exceptional dynamic range, and low-light performance.
- X-Processor 4: Fast, efficient processing for high-speed shooting and video.
- 425-point Hybrid AF: Accurate autofocus, 100% coverage, Face/Eye-Detection AF for humans/animals.
- ISO 100-12,800: Low-light flexibility and noise reduction.
- 5fps Continuous Shooting: Capture detailed images of fast-moving subjects.
- 30fps 4K & 60fps FHD Video: High-quality recording and F-Log profile.
- Dual Card Slots: Two SD UHS-II slots for versatile storage and backup.
- Compact Magnesium Alloy Body: Weather-sealed and durable design.
- High-res EVF & Tilt Touchscreen: Clear viewfinder and adjustable touchscreen for easy use.
The Bad
- Super Expensive: Substantial cost compared to competitors.
- Heavy Body: Weighing 900g, less comfortable for extended handheld use and more cumbersome to carry.
- Slower Autofocus: Less responsive AF system, especially in low light or challenging conditions.
5. Fujifilm X-T5
Compact powerhouse: stunning imagery and robust video capabilities.
Unleash your creativity with this compact powerhouse, capturing striking visuals with precision and ease in a portable form factor.
Despite having a cropped sensor, the X-T5 delivers exceptional image quality.
It features fast and accurate autofocus, and a 20fps continuous shooting mode, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving cars.
But there's more:
The X-T5 features IBIS (in-body-image-stabilization), which reduces blur and ensures sharp images.
An overall all-rounder for car photography, although, if I'm being honest, it's a little pricey for an APS-C camera.
The Good
- 40.2MP APS-C Sensor: High-resolution images, excellent color reproduction, and low-light performance.
- X-Processor 5: Super fast, efficient processing for high-speed shooting and video.
- 425-Point Hybrid AF: Accurate autofocus, 100% coverage, Face/Eye-Detection AF for humans/animals.
- ISO 125-12,800: Low-light flexibility and noise reduction.
- In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS): Reduces blur and ensures sharp images, even in low-light conditions.
- 20fps Continuous Shooting: Effortlessly capture fast action and fleeting moments.
- 6.2K 30fps, 4K UHD 60fps & Full HD 240fps Video: High-quality recording, slow-motion, and F-Log profile.
- Dual Card Slots: Two SD UHS-II slots for versatile storage and backup.
- Weather-Resistant Body: Durable design with magnesium alloy chassis and weather sealing.
- High-res EVF & Vari-angle Touchscreen: Clear viewfinder and adjustable touchscreen for easy use.
The Bad
- Cropped Sensor: Smaller sensor than others on this list.
6. Nikon D850
Full-frame prowess, remarkable resolution, and versatile dynamism.
Elevate your photography with a powerful tool designed for effortlessly capturing stunning visuals in a wide range of situations.
Nikon D850 is a well-rounded DSLR with breathtaking image quality — perfect for capturing every detail of vehicles in diverse lighting conditions..
With its dependable autofocus system and swift subject tracking, photographing moving cars becomes a seamless experience, ensuring crisp, dynamic shots.
However:
It's a bit heavier, which might affect comfort during extended handheld use.
Also, its video features, though capable, might not be as advanced as some mirrorless alternatives. Its low-light performance is impressive, but newer cameras may have an edge.
That said, it's still a fantastic choice if you're looking for a robust, high-performing DSLR with a great balance of features.
The Good
- 45.7MP Full-Frame Sensor: High-resolution images, excellent dynamic range, and enhanced low-light performance.
- EXPEED 5 Image Processor: Faster performance and superior image quality.
- 153-Point AF System: Rapid, precise autofocus in diverse lighting conditions.
- ISO 64-25,600: Low-light flexibility and noise reduction at high sensitivities.
- 7fps Burst Shooting: Capture fast action and fleeting moments.
- 30fps 4K & 120fps FHD Video: High-quality video and slow-motion capabilities.
- Focus Shift Shooting Mode: Create images with extended depth of field by combining shots at different focus distances.
- Durable Magnesium Alloy Body: Weather-sealed design for resilience in harsh environments.
The Bad
- Heavy Body: Weighing 1,005g, more cumbersome for prolonged handheld use.
- No In-Body Stabilization: Absence of stabilization, necessitating stabilized lenses or support equipment for steady shots.
- Limited Video Autofocus: Contrast-based AF in video mode results in slower and less accurate focus than competitors.
7. Nikon Z 6II
Speed and video excellence in a compact powerhouse
Nikon Z 6II lets you capture stunning images and videos with remarkable speed and precision, elevating your photography to the next level.
Nikon Z 6II is a versatile mirrorless camera with stunning image quality and impressive low-light performance — perfect for capturing vehicles in various lighting conditions.
The Z 6II's reliable autofocus system and subject tracking make it a breeze to photograph moving cars, ensuring you get sharp, dynamic images.
However, while the camera has in-body stabilization for steady shots, its LCD screen doesn't fully rotate, so it could be challenging when photographing from unique angles.
Also, though the battery life is improved, it's wise to have spare batteries on hand for extended shooting sessions.
Overall, it's an excellent choice for a well-rounded, high-performing mirrorless camera suited for car photography.
The Good
- 24.5MP Full-Frame Sensor: High-quality images, excellent dynamic range, and low-light performance.
- Dual EXPEED 6: Swift, efficient processing for shooting and video.
- 273-Point Hybrid AF: Accurate autofocus, 90% coverage, Eye-Detection AF for humans/animals.
- In-Body Stabilization: Reduces camera shake for steadier shots, even with non-stabilized lenses.
- ISO 100-51,200: Low-light flexibility and noise reduction.
- 14fps Continuous Shooting: Capture fast action and fleeting moments with ease.
- 30fps 4K & 120fps FHD Video: Quality recording and slow-motion capabilities.
- Dual Card Slots: CFexpress (Type B) and SD UHS-II for versatile storage and backup.
- Magnesium Alloy Body: Weather-sealed design for durability.
- High-Res EVF & Tilting Touchscreen: Clear viewfinder and adjustable touchscreen for easy use.
The Bad
- Lower Resolution Sensor: 24.5MP full-frame sensor offers less detail compared to higher resolution competitors.
- Reduced Battery Life: Powerful features and compact design drain battery faster, requiring spare batteries for extended use.
- Non-Rotating LCD Screen: Limited articulation restricts shooting angles, which makes it less convenient for vlogging or self-portraits.
- Heavy Body: At 705g, less comfortable for extended handheld use.
8. Nikon Z 7II
Perfect upgrade: unparalleled resolution and speed.
Unlock limitless creativity and elevate your craft with Nikon Z 7II, featuring unparalleled resolution and speed that takes your photographic potential to the next level.
Z 7II shares many similarities with the Z 6II, including reliable autofocus, advanced subject tracking, a compact and lightweight design, and limited battery life.
Another thing you need to know is that the Z 7II has a lower ISO range than the Z 6II, which could be an issue in low-light situations or when shooting fast-moving subjects where a high shutter speed is required.
However, the Z 7II boasts a higher resolution sensor, allowing for more detailed images. So if you want to capture sharp, crisp images, this could be a good choice.
The Good
- 45.7MP Full-Frame Sensor: High-resolution images, excellent dynamic range, and improved low-light performance.
- Dual EXPEED 6: Fast and efficient image processing for high-speed shooting and video recording.
- 493-Point Hybrid AF: Quick, accurate autofocus covering 90% of the frame, with Eye-Detection AF for humans and animals.
- ISO 64-25,600: Flexibility in low-light situations and noise reduction at high sensitivities.
- In-Body Stabilization: Reduces camera shake for steadier shots, even with non-stabilized lenses.
- 60fps 4K & 120fps FHD Video: High-quality video recording and slow-motion capabilities.
- Refined Ergonomics: Comfortable grip and intuitive button layout for effortless handling and control.
- Dual Memory Card Slots: CFexpress (Type B) and SD UHS-II card slots for versatile storage options and backup.
- Robust Magnesium Alloy Body: Weather-sealed design for durability in challenging environments.
- High-Resolution EVF & Tilting LCD: Clear electronic viewfinder and adjustable touchscreen for easy composition and control.
The Bad
- Reduced Battery Life: Powerful features and compact design drain battery quicker, necessitating spare batteries.
- Lower Native ISO Range: ISO 64-25,600 limits low-light capabilities compared to cameras with broader ranges.
- Non-Rotating LCD Screen: Limited articulation restricts shooting angles, which makes it less convenient for vlogging or self-portraits.
- Heavy Body: At 705g, less comfortable for extended handheld use.
9. Sony a7R IV
Excellence redefined with the 61MP powerhouse
Sony a7R IV is a game-changer, redefining excellence with its 61MP powerhouse delivering unparalleled image quality, advanced autofocus, and remarkable speed.
Sony a7R IV packs a punch with its impressive 61-megapixel sensor, providing outstanding image quality and exceptional detail.
Sony's AF system is sound, but the one on a7R IV and its subject tracking are top-notch, making it easy to capture razor-sharp images of moving cars.
Its 15-stop dynamic range can capture images with excellent tonal range, even in challenging lighting conditions.
However:
The camera has a lower ISO range and may require additional lighting to create properly exposed images in low-light situations.
The Good
- 61MP Full-Frame Sensor: Ultra-high resolution, excellent dynamic range, and low-light performance.
- BIONZ X Processor: Fast, efficient processing for high-speed shooting and video.
- 567-Point Hybrid AF: Accurate autofocus, 74% coverage, Eye-Detection AF for humans/animals.
- ISO 100-32,000: Low-light flexibility and noise reduction.
- 10fps Continuous Shooting: Effortlessly capture fast action and fleeting moments.
- 30fps 4K & 120fps FHD Video: High-quality recording and slow-motion capabilities.
- Dual Card Slots: Two SD UHS-II slots for versatile storage and backup.
- Magnesium Alloy Body: Weather-sealed design for durability.
- High-res EVF & Tilting Touchscreen: Clear viewfinder and adjustable touchscreen for easy use.
The Bad
- Heavy Body: At 665g, less comfortable for extended handheld use.
- Expensive: Higher price compared to competitors.
10. Sony a7 IV
Exceptional precision for remarkable detail
a7 IV's advanced AF system lets you unlock new creative possibilities with unparalleled precision and detail.
Sony a7 IV is a top-performing camera for car photography.
Its 33MP sensor delivers exceptional image quality and dynamic range, making capturing detailed and sharp images of cars in motion easy.
Compared to a7R IV, the a7 IV has an even more remarkable AF system, ensuring you capture sharp, focused images of moving cars.
And its 10fps continuous shooting also allows you to capture fast action and fleeting moments easily.
It's not perfect, though:
a7 IV's 4K video may suffer from the rolling shutter issue, which can be particularly problematic for car photography, where capturing smooth and seamless motion is essential.
The Good
- 33MP Full-Frame Sensor: High-resolution images, excellent dynamic range, and low-light performance.
- BIONZ XR Processor: Swift, efficient processing for high-speed shooting and video.
- 759-Point Hybrid AF: Accurate autofocus, 92% coverage, Eye-Detection AF for humans/animals.
- ISO 100-51,200: Low-light flexibility and noise reduction.
- 10fps Continuous Shooting: Capture fast action and fleeting moments with ease.
- 60fps 4K & 120fps FHD Video: High-quality recording, slow-motion, and S-Cinetone color profile.
- Dual Card Slots: CFexpress Type A and SD UHS-II for versatile storage and backup.
- Magnesium Alloy Body: Weather-sealed design for durability.
- High-res EVF & Vari-angle Touchscreen: Clear viewfinder and adjustable touchscreen for easy use.
The Bad
- 4K Rolling Shutter: Noticeable distortion during rapid motion or action sequences in video.
- Expensive: Higher price compared to competitors.
11. Sony a1
A game-changer for whom demand the best
Sony a1 is the ultimate choice for professionals who demand the best, setting the bar for the future of photography.
Sony a1 is probably not for most people, but if you're looking for the best for your car photography, definitely consider it.
With a 50.1MP full-frame sensor, this camera delivers exceptional image quality and advanced features, making it an ideal choice for capturing high-speed action shots of cars.
Its autofocus system is top-notch, providing precise and accurate autofocus and tracking for fast-moving cars.
And its continuous shooting speed ensures you never miss a shot when capturing fast-moving cars. Not to mention its 8K video capabilities allow you to shoot high-quality footage of cars in motion.
The elephant in the room is, of course, the price. It's a Sony flagship camera and was really expensive.
But if budget isn't an issue, with what a1 has to offer, it'll make an excellent choice for car photography.
The Good
- 50.1MP Full-Frame Sensor: Ultra-high resolution, excellent dynamic range, and low-light performance.
- BIONZ XR Processor: Swift, efficient processing for high-speed shooting and video.
- 759-Point Hybrid AF: Accurate autofocus, 92% coverage, Real-time Eye AF for humans/animals/birds.
- ISO 100-32,000: Low-light flexibility and noise reduction.
- 30fps Continuous Shooting: Capture fast action and fleeting moments with ease.
- 30fps 8K & 120fps 4K Video: High-quality recording, slow-motion, and S-Cinetone color profile.
- Dual Card Slots: Two CFexpress Type A/SD UHS-II slots for versatile storage and backup.
- Magnesium Alloy Body: Weather-sealed design for durability.
- High-res EVF & Vari-angle Touchscreen: Clear viewfinder and adjustable touchscreen for easy use.
The Bad
- Super Expensive: Significantly higher price point than competitors, potentially limiting affordability for most people.
What Is Car Photography?
Car photography involves capturing images of cars, their designs, and their unique features.
Creative car photography involves pushing the boundaries and experimenting with unique angles, lighting, and editing techniques to create visually stunning images.
Conclusion
And that concludes this post on the 11 best cameras for car photography. I hope this post has helped you narrow your search for the camera you want.
Each camera has unique features and strengths, so it's essential to consider your shooting style and needs when making a purchase decision.
Now - over to you:
Which camera model are you currently using for your car photography? Share with me in the comment section below 🫡