Artistic Brilliance Captured: Best Cameras for Art Focus

A digital camera is an excellent tool for artists and creatives. You might already be an avid photographer. Or maybe you want to share your artwork online. Either way, cameras are more affordable than ever. But there are also countless options available. You might get confused, wondering what is the best camera for photographing artwork. 

That’s why I’ve put together this detailed guide to the best cameras for artists. You’ll find the essential factors to look out for when shopping around. Plus, I’ve reviewed the top options out there. 

If you’re looking for the best affordable DSLR, you’re sure to find the perfect camera below! Or perhaps you’re after the best camera for filmmaking on a budget. Not to worry – I’ve got you covered!

Best camera for art photography

(Image credit: Ailbhe Flynn)

How to Choose the Best Camera for Art Photography

You need to look out for a few crucial factors when choosing a new camera for art photography. First up, you’ll need to decide what type of camera you would like.

Mirrorless or DSLR Camera?

When you’re shopping for a new camera, you have two main choices: a mirrorless camera, or a DSLR camera. Here are the main differences to help you choose the best option for your needs.

Mirrorless cameras are still relatively new on the market and tend to be more expensive. But they also come with the advantage of being lightweight and portable. That makes them ideal for traveling. Mirrorless cameras are also fantastic for video recording. 

In contrast, DSLR cameras can be cheaper unless you go for a high-end model. Accessories and lenses are more affordable. This gives you more options and flexibility in your photography.

High-Quality Photography

You want to go for a camera that can create sharp, high-resolution images. As a result, your shots will look beautiful, even if you print them at larger sizes.

If you go for a DSLR camera, make sure that you pay attention to the sensor size. The sensor is the part of the camera that transforms light into your image. So, the bigger the sensor, the higher your image’s quality!

Video Recording

You should also check out the video recording capabilities before you buy a camera. Most modern cameras can record video nowadays. But the quality can vary greatly, especially with DSLR models.

Make sure that your chosen camera can capture 4K 1080 pixel video. Don’t forget to look up the frame re-coding rates. A higher rate translates to a smooth, high-quality video.

Durability & Size

Another factor to think about is the size and durability of your camera. Your priority here will depend on when and where you’ll use your camera. If you travel a lot, look for a compact, lightweight camera that’s easily portable.

You should also check out how hardwearing and weather-proof the camera is. Look for waterproofing and dust-proofing. These features will ensure that your camera will last for years! 

You might need to weigh your need for a portable camera vs. a larger one that can withstand bumps and scratches. 

The Best Camera for Artists

Here are my recommendations for the best digital camera for fine art photography. You’ll also find some of the best cameras for beginner filmmakers here! There’s something to suit everyone’s needs and budget. 

Canon EOS 800D Digital SLR

Canon EOS 800D Digital SLR

(Image credit: Canon)

The Canon EOS 800D is a fantastic, affordable DSLR camera. It shoots high-quality imagery even in low light, thanks to the generous 24.2 MP sensor. It’s simple and easy to use, making it ideal for beginners and amateurs. 

This model offers excellent features such as fast focusing and six shots per second. The internal image stabilizer ensures that your freehand photos are clean and crisp. 

The EOS 800D can also shoot high-quality HD videos, making it both a versatile and powerful camera. It’s perfect for making art photography or for getting started with videography. 

This model comes with a standard 18-55m lens and a battery and charger. You get everything you need so you can jump straight in and start taking photos! These features combine to make the Canon EOS 800D the best affordable DSLR camera.

Pros:

  • Affordable low price
  • High-quality images and video

Cons:

  • It’s not as compact as some models

Check price on


D5600 DX-format Digital SLR

(Image credit: Nikon)

The D5600 is a fantastic choice for any newbie photographer. It’s easy to use, with a small learning curve. You can dive in and start shooting, thanks to smart auto modes that select the right setting for you. The touchscreen is intuitive and user-friendly for smartphone users who want to uplevel. 

But this camera is also suitable for more experienced photographers. The D5600 has a wide range of advanced tools at your disposal. Another bonus is that it’s super lightweight, so you can take it anywhere.

This DSLR camera has both a high-res sensor and a wide ISO range. Your shots will be crystal-clear in any environment, including low light. Plus, you can shoot HD videos with crisp sound.

Pros:

  • Excellent for both beginners and pros
  • User-friendly with quick setup

Cons:

  • It’s not the best camera for shooting video

Check price on


Nikon D7500 20.9MP DX-Format

Nikon D7500 20.9MP DX-Format

(Image credit: Nikon)

The Nikon D7500 is another excellent DSLR camera for beginners. The renewed models come in for an affordable price. This camera is packed with essential features like high resolution and a wide ISO range. 

The 20.9-megapixel sensor allows you to capture any image in crisp detail. Plus, you can also record 4K video, which makes it ideal for any budding videographer. It captures 30 frames per second, so your videos will be breathtaking and lifelike.

Another bonus is that the D7500 is both lightweight and hardwearing. These features combine to make it a perfect travel camera. It’s protected against the elements thanks to durable weather sealing.

This model has a tilting touchscreen, so it’s effortless to use. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you’ll be impressed with this camera. The D7500 is an excellent bargain choice, making it the best DSLR camera. 

Pros:

  • Fantastic value for money
  • It’s equipped with the latest processor and a tilting touchscreen

Cons:

  • It’s not as compact as a mirrorless camera

Check price on


Canon EOS Rebel T7i

(Image credit: Canon)

The EOS looks like a classic Canon, but it comes ready with all the latest features. With this model, you’ll get 45-point AF and ultrafast autofocusing. What’s more, it’s very intuitive and straightforward to use. 

The EOS Rebel offers the ultimate versatility, allowing you to customize it to your needs. You can use it with all sorts of lenses, from wide-angle lenses to a macro lens. So, it’s suitable for every photographer! 

The maximum resolution of the EOS Rebel is a jaw-dropping 24.2 mp. You’ll get crystal clear images every time! Plus, it won’t weigh you down at just over 1lb, so you can take it anywhere.

It’s sturdy and well-built, despite the compact size. Just as you’d expect from a Canon camera! If you’ve been looking for the best camera, the EOS Rebel ticks all the boxes!

Pros:

  • It’s very small and featherlight for travel
  • The touchscreen is easy to use and very responsive

Cons:

  • It can’t record 4K video

Check price on


Pentax KP 24.32 Ultra-Compact Weatherproof DSLR

Pentax KP 24.32 Ultra-Compact Weatherproof DSLR

(Image credit: Pentax)

While Pentax might not be such a well-known brand as Canon or Nikon, its cameras should not be overlooked! The Pentax KP is an exceptional camera that boasts some great features. For example, the 24.3 MP sensor and the impressive 819200 ISO.

It also comes with a 5-axis shake recognition system. Thanks to this smart tech, your shots should never come out blurry or unfocused. You’ll have more crisper images than ever before!

This sturdy camera is built to withstand all conditions, from dust and wind to rain and snow. It’s weatherproof and waterproof. Some photographers have even taken it diving (but I don’t recommend that!) 

This advanced model will be a joy for any photographer to use. It’s easy enough for the beginner just getting started. But it offers plenty of room for growth and advancement as your skills improve! 

Pros:

  • Durable, customizable, and accurate
  • Excellent high ISO quality

Cons:

  • It’s quite heavy

Check price on


Canon Digital SLR Camera [EOS 80D]

Canon Digital SLR Camera Body [EOS 80D]

(Image credit: Canon)

Here we have another great offering from Canon. The EOS 80D doesn’t come cheap, but it’s well worth the investment. It has all sorts of exciting features like the Intelligent Viewfinder.

You can take vivid, precise shots with this camera. It’s suitable for use in low light as well as bright conditions. Plus, you can shoot 1080p video with the EOS 80D. The touchscreen is a bonus, and the Intelligent Viewfinder allows you to get creative.

Overall, this Canon model is powerful and versatile. It would be an excellent addition to any artist’s studio for shooting both stills and video.

Pros:

  • Timeless build and easy to hold for long periods
  • Fast focus and image capture for precise shots

Cons:

  • It doesn’t have 4K video capability

Check price on


Canon EOS 70D Digital SLR Camera

Canon EOS 70D Digital SLR Camera - The best camera for photographing art

(Image credit: Canon)

You’ve seen the Canon EOS 80D, but don’t overlook the EOS 70D. It’s also a superb camera that provides all the features you need as an artist. It has a decent ISO range of 100-12800 so that you can shoot in all conditions. This camera reduces noise while replicating vivid colors and flawless tonality.

If you’re more interested in recording video, you’ll be pleased to see the Dual Pixel CMOS AF. With this setting, your video will always look sharp and focused. The articulating touchscreen is also a game-changer. It makes capturing different angles simple and straightforward.

Don’t be fooled just because the EOS 70D isn’t the latest edition. This model is sure to amaze you with its accuracy, quality video, and ease of use. 

Pros:

  • Very affordable price
  • It’s lightweight and easy to get the hang of it

Cons:

  • It’s not the best camera for shooting in low light

Check price on


best camera for art

(Image credit: Renan Brun)

The Wrap Up

So there you have my roundup of the best cameras for artists. All the reviewed products combine the essential features any artist needs. They are durable, affordable, and can capture superb images and video. 

Don’t put off the decision any longer – buy one of these tried-and-tested models today! You’ll elevate your artwork to the next level with the right camera.

Let me know if you have any questions about these cameras for artists. Post them below, and I’ll get back to you ASAP! And while you’re here, make sure to sign up for the Proactive Creative newsletter. I’ll share the best resources, inspiration, and tips for creatives.

This post contains affiliate links. Proactive Creative may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase.

Author

Outmane is the founder of Proactive Creative. He is an artist/designer.


You may also like these articles

2 thoughts on “Artistic Brilliance Captured: Best Cameras for Art Focus”

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.