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With so many options out there, knowing how to choose the best camera for your blogging journey can be overwhelming.
Do you need entry level or professional grade? Are you a food or fashion blogger? This can make a difference in the type of blogging camera you should choose.
Not to mention that cameras are often not cheap. However, regardless of your preferred blogging niche, they are a smart investment and a must-have blogging tool.
Specifically, they provide better quality photographs and videos for your website, increase opportunities to collaborate with companies, and save time editing.
The look of your blog and your social media platforms like Instagram can make or break you. You need high quality original images, and the best way to ensure this it to choose the best camera for bloggers.
Plus, having high-quality photos and videos will help you stand out from the competition and not be an amateur blogger.
In this guide, you can learn some key factors to consider when choosing a camera for blogging, the best blogging cameras to choose from and even some key accessories you need!
Haven’t started your blog yet? Set one up with this easy guide.
Table of Contents
What is the Best Overall Camera for Blogging?
Here is our top pick of blogging camera:
Canon G7X Mark II
With excellent image quality, built in wi-fi, a compact size and an affordable price tag, the Canon G7X is the best overall pic of blogging camera.
The Best Cameras for Bloggers
If you want to learn about the types of cameras, features and more, start here, otherwise, here are the top picks of cameras for blogging:
Best Cameras for Blogging For Beginners
If you are a beginning blogger, and need a quality but affordable camera, these are the options for you.
Canon G7X Mark II: Best Camera For Beginning Bloggers
The G7X Mark II, which costs around $750 (or $680 right now on Amazon!), provides a high-quality blend of everything you’ll need to get started blogging and vlogging.
Because the Canon G7X Mark II is so light, you won’t get tired of shooting with one hand while vlogging your activities. Even with the small size, the camera has a rubber grip in front that makes it relatively easy to operate and hold.
The Canon G7X Mark II does not disappoint when it comes to image quality; expect clear and detailed photos, as well as RAW processing in-camera. For a wider range, it has a designed 4.2x zoom lens.
Features:
- Camera Type: Point and shoot
- Video resolution: 1080P
- Optical image stabilizer
- WiFi built-in
- Weight: 0.71 lb
- Price: $629 at Amazon
Sony ZV-1 – Best Camera For Beauty Bloggers
The Sony ZV-1 is an amazing camera for any beauty bloggers or beginning bloggers out there. It is a more affordable option if you are just starting out. Right now you can catch it on Amazon on sale for $648, well worth the investment.
The Sony ZV-1 is also actually one of the best cameras for vlogging.
Sony actually describes this camera is an ideal choice for content creators, Vloggers and YouTubers.
It has an installed beauty effect that makes your skin softer and improves your overall appearance. Yes please! When it comes to taking selfies, the flip-out adjustable LCD will come in handy.
The BIONZ X image processor delivers the highest image quality still photos while also supporting 24fps burst mode.
However, the video format is its actual strength, as it provides not only 4K video but also complete pixel output and super slow-motion recording.
Not to mention the Real-Time Eye AF, which ensures that your face is always in focus when photographing or filming.
Meanwhile, beauty bloggers will appreciate the Face Priority Auto-Exposure (AE) function. As you pass through changing lighting conditions, the Sony ZV-1 can automatically change exposure.
More Reading: Best Blogs About Blogging
Features:
- Camera Type: Point and shoot
- Weight: 294 g
- Video resolution: 4K
Middle Range Cameras For Blogging
These blogging cameras fall somewhere between beginner’s and advanced. Any of these are a valuable pick from our list of best cameras for bloggers.
Fuji X-T20 – Best Camera For Lifestyle Blogging
The Fuji X-T20 is the ideal camera for lifestyle blogging for a variety of reasons, but one of the most important is that it is elegant and portable.
This mirrorless camera is ideal for motion photographs, whether they’re of your daily activities or fashion-related photographs. With 325 customizable AF points, 169 of which incorporate phase detection, it boasts a great autofocus system.
Check out the Fuji X-T20 on Amazon
Features:
- Camera type: Mirrorless
- 24.3 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor for incredible detail
- 100-12,800 ISO range
- WiFi capabilities
- Weight: 0.73 lb
- Video resolution: 4K
Canon 6D Mark II – Best Camera For Food Blogging
No camera presently outperforms the Canon 6D Mark II as it is related to food blogging. It’s a reasonably priced DSLR that offers a wide range of camera controls, from ISO to numerous focus points.
The Canon 6D Mark II comes with everything you’ll need to take the best food shots possible. A 45-point autofocus system, a 26.2MP sensor, and an ISO range of approximately 40,000 are all fantastic features of the camera.
Additionally, it is compatible with several excellent lenses, allowing you to expand the range of photos you may take.
It has built-in phase detection pixels that ensure reliable autofocus in low-light conditions, which is ideal for taking pictures of foods with natural light.
On sale now at Amazon for $1,399 instead of the normal $1,799
Features:
- Camera Type: DSLR
- Ultrafast 6.5 frames per second
- 26.2 megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor
- Built in WiFi
- Weight: 1.51 lbs
- Built in GPS to geotag pictures
- Video resolution: 1080P
Best Professional Cameras for Blogging
If you want a top-of-the-line camera, with all the bells and whistles and advanced features, try one of these options.
Sony A7 III – Best Camera for Travel Blogging
If you are a travel blogger, the Sony A7 III is the best camera you can buy. It’s a mirrorless camera that is both small and powerful.
The Sony A7 III is capable of producing stunning images with in-depth details and authentic colors.
Even at a high ISO, the Sony A7 III produces grain-free photographs, making it ideal for low-light situations. Even as high as ISO 12,800, you can get rich, minimal noise images, which is ideal for any travel blogger.
Sony A7 III also incorporates in-body image stabilization based on a 5-axis sensor. The Sony A7 III also includes a silent mode that allows you to shoot without creating any noise.
When recording handheld, it reduces motion blur, allowing you to capture sharp shots even when moving fast down a busy street. It’s ideal for photographing in serene settings or when you don’t want to draw too much attention to yourself.
Features:
- Camera Type: Mirrorless
- Video resolution: 4K
- 24.2 MP resolution
- ISO 100-51,200
- High speed continuous shooting
- Wirelessly stream stills and movies to a smartphone, PC or TV
- Image sensor shift mechanism with five-axis compensation
- Weight: 3.5 lbs
Sony A7R III – Best Camera For Fashion Bloggers
It is critical for fashion bloggers to invest in a camera that can highlight accurate colors and the details of clothes. The Sony A7R III has a remarkable 42-megapixel resolution.
Its new shutter allows it to shoot at 10 frames per second, which is ideal for fashion photography.
Even while the person walks around to create lovely patterns, you can easily snap still photographs without any motion blur.
In addition, the 399-point AF system ensures that focus is achieved faster and more accurately in any lighting scenario. You can also modify the focus point with the joystick. This is however one of the highest priced camera options in our list.
Features:
- Camera Type: Mirrorless
- 42.4MP resolution for lifelike detail
- ISO auto, ISO 50-102,405
- High speed continuous shooting
- Fast hybrid phase and contrast-detection autofocus
- Video resolution: 4K HDR
- Wirelessly stream images
- Pixel shift multi shooting
- Weight: 1.26 lbs
Canon Powerhost G7X Mark III – Best Vlogging Camera
The Canon Powershot is one of the best cameras for beginning vloggers. With a built-in microphone and improved sensor, this camera provides excellent video quality as well as pictures.
You can even turn the camera into a high-quality web-cam for live streaming! And, of course you can capture your videos in 4K.
You can even record vertical videos, like you would with an iphone. The 20.1 Megapixel 1.0-inch stacked CMOS sensor and powerful DIGIC 8 Image Processor create beautiful images even in low light.
Features:
- Camera type: Point and shoot
- 3″ multi-angle touch-screen LCD
- 4.2x optical and 4.2x digital zoom
- Records 4K 30p and Full HD 120p movie clips with minimal sound distortion
- 20.1MP 1″ CMOS sensor
- Canon DIGIC 8 image processor and optical image stabilizer
- Wi-fi technology
Why do You Need a Good Camera for Blogging?
You may be tempted to just use your iphone as your blogging camera. But, there are many reasons why you should invest in a good camera if you are running a blog.
Not to mention the fact that when you purchase a good camera you will likely have it the rest of your life! So, if you spend $1,000 a camera, but use it for 10 years, you are only spending $100 bucks a year for it!
Better Quality Photos
If you invest in good camera, you will see the difference in your photos, or your videos if you are a vlogger.
There are so many blogs and websites out there that you are competing against for attention.
High quality images will help! And on the contrary, if your images are sub-par because your camera is, it will not get the readers to your site or social media you are looking for.
Improved Social Media Engagement
There is no place where quality imagery is more important and beneficial than in social media.
Social media is really nothing but images! And videos. And having original, quality photos will help increase your engagement and the number of followers you have.
Increase Your Chances of Brand Collaboration
The more professional your photos, the higher your chance of getting spotted by brands.
Brands who will pay you to promote their products, or to collaborate. The simple investment of a quality camera, can increase your revenue.
How do you Choose the Best Camera for Blogging?
There are a few key factors you can consider when choosing the best blogging camera. It may depend on your personal preference, or the type of blog you have, but you should figure out what is most important to you.
Camera Size and weight
If you want to be able to easily take your camera everywhere, a smaller camera size may be important.
You don’t want to be carrying about a big, cumbersome camera when a compact one can take photos that are just as good.
And, if you’re running a travel blog, it is even more important that your blogging camera is portable.
The best cameras for travel bloggers are lightweight and easy to take everywhere. The camera models I’ve discussed here are among the most compact.
Whether a smartphone or a DSLR, most recent cameras have advanced capabilities but are no longer as large as previous models.
Price
Of course, price may be a factor in your camera choice. Certain cameras are more affordable.
If you have a tight budget or are just starting your blogging journey, opt for a less expensive camera as your first one. You can always upgrade later.
Another option however if price is a factor, is to buy a used camera. You can possibly get a lot more advanced camera but not pay top-dollar if you buy one that is pre-owned.
Type of blog
Certain cameras are better suitable for various blogging styles. It’s crucial to know what essential qualities to look for in a camera, whether you’re running a lifestyle blog, travel blog, or beauty blog.
As we already mentioned, a more compact camera is best for a travel blogger but the best cameras for fashion bloggers may have more advanced features.
Video Capabilities
If you are or plan on becoming a Vlogger, make sure the camera you opt for has the ability to create videos. A flip screen on the camera will help make this easier.
Other elements you need in a video camera include 1080P or 4K Ultra HD resolution and in-body stabilization to help keep your videos from being shaky. A camera for a Vlogger should have a frame rate of 24-34 fps and it needs the ability to connect to external microphones.
4K Resolution
Vloggers aren’t the only ones who benefit from 4K video resolution. Even if you’re just writing blog content, I’d suggest including videos in some way.
It doesn’t matter if it’s a close-up of a product you’re reviewing or a 360-degree photo of your vacation spot. It can be just another way for your blog to stand out among others.
A blogging camera with 4K resolution will provide the ultimate picture quality.
Performance and Ability to Autofocus
The focusing of the camera is the next factor to consider when selecting the ideal camera for for your blog.
The best cameras for bloggers can readjust the lens to focus on the target accurately. It may look simple, but nothing is more upsetting than missing a perfect shot because of an unstable focus.
Thanks to the camera’s excellent autofocus capability, you can be confident that most of your videos and pictures will be sharp, focused, and set to use.
Audio Quality
If all you want to do is take pictures, audio quality may not be a primary concern.
However, if you’re going to look for a suitable camera for blogging, you might as well go all out and get one that can also record fantastic audio!
These days, many bloggers are also Vloggers, which means that audio quality is crucial.
It is helpful if the camera has an excellent built-in microphone, but you can also have an external microphone for Vlogging. You will just need to make sure the camera you pick can connect to one.
Low-Light Functionality
Yes, knowing how to tune your ISO, shutter speed, and aperture is key to capturing fine photographs in low light.
However, no matter how outstanding your technical expertise is, you won’t be able to get the most out of a photo if the camera isn’t up to the task. The low light feature could be useful if you want to capture images in poorly lit or low-light settings, such as at night.
Since you can’t control the outdoors or the setup in your favorite restaurant, low-light functionality is a key feature you want to have in your blogging camera.
Image Stabilizing
It’s challenging to totally remove the camera shake if you’re not using a tripod with your camera; this is especially true if you’re in an active or outdoor location.
If you want to shoot clean images without blur, image stabilization is essential. A few cameras have this built-in feature, while others require attaching an additional component to the lens.
The best cameras for bloggers are the ones that include image stabilization, especially if you are a newbie!
If you want to learn more about photography in general, opt for a how-to book like this Beginner’s Guide to Digital Photography.
A few camera settings explained
Some of the features you will see mentioned in camera descriptions may sound like Chinese. It is good to understand a few of the essential settings and abilities.
ISO
All this term describes is how sensitive the camera’s sensor is to light. The higher the ISO, the more sensitive the camera.
With a high ISO, you can take pictures in low lit/dark settings and still have a quality picture.
Sensor size
You will see information about the size of a camera’s sensor. The bigger the sensor, the higher the image quality you will get.
Manual mode
The opposite of a manual mode camera is an automatic. Just as the name implies, it will do everything for you automatically. While this is an easier camera to use, you won’t have. as much control over the output or the quality.
An automatic camera will pick the settings such as the ISO, shutter speed and opening for you. However, with a manual mode camera, you can control all of these and create exactly the type of image you want.
In addition, you will definitely have more artistic capabilities with a manual mode camera. But, it is harder to use and will definitely require a little education to get it.
LCD
LCD is Liquid Crystal Display. This just affects the resolution. Choose a camera with a higher resolution LCD for better quality images.
Frames per second
Another feature you will frequently see mentioned related to a camera’s abilities is the frames per second. It is how many pictures a camera can take in each second.
If you are a fashion blogger or someone who takes pictures of kids and fast moving scenes, you may need a camera with more FPS.
Megapixels
Megapixels is pretty important as it shows the resolution of the camera itself. Again, the bigger the number the better the quality of the image.
You need about 20 mp for a good blogging camera.
Why Do You Need a Camera for Blogging If You Have An iPhone?
How good are the cameras on today’s smartphones? Isn’t it amazing?
However, smartphone cameras, including iPhones, do have limits and aren’t the most impressive camera for blogging and vlogging if you want the best quality.
Despite having an iPhone, here are several reasons why you should invest in a camera for blogging instead of a smartphone:
- An iPhone simply cannot compete with the quality, quickness, or control of a high-end quality blogger’s camera.
2. Smartphone cameras have merely computational zoom. However, the best digital camera for blogging has a true optical zoom that covers a considerably wider range.
3. If you are taking many shots, your smartphone’s battery will run out halfway through the day. The best camera for blogging and vlogs, on the other hand, will take roughly 300-500 shots before needing to be charged.
4. Lastly, even though some smartphones give you some flexibility over how you shoot images these days, they don’t give you the same amount of control as a good real, digital camera for bloggers. These cameras let you play about with diverse settings and modes. Giving you more creative features and capabilities.
How Much Does a Blogging Camera Cost?
Well, as you see in all the top camera options in our list, the prices can vary. It is all about the features and functionalities you want.
The more advanced, the more money you will spend. But in general, the cost of a good blogging camera could vary from $300-$2,500.
What Types of Cameras for Blogging Are There?
Cameras can be sorted according to 3 main types. Point and shoot, Mirrorless and DSLR.
Here is some basic information about each camera type to help you choose the right blogging camera for you.
Point and Shoot
A point and shoot camera is basically the simplest, easiest-to-use camera out there (besides your phone of course!) However, this type of camera does not give you much control.
It is best for someone who wants the camera to be automatic. All you have to do is literally point the camera in the direction of what you want to take a picture of and shoot. For this reason, this type of camera can be good for beginning bloggers.
Additionally, they are super compact.
The downside is the quality will not be as good as some of the other blogging cameras out there.
You will not be able to swap out lenses for effects and the camera has a reduced sensor which affects the quality of the photographs.
On the other hand, battery life is also much shorter on a point and shoot camera.
Overall, this isn’t the best choice of blogging camera unless you just want an affordable, simple option when you start blogging..
Single Lens REflex Cameras (DSLR)
A single lens reflex camera unlike a point and shoot is two pieces. The body of the camera and the lens. You can remove the lens and put different types and styles of lenses on.
There is a mirror inside the body of the camera which actually is how the image is taken. IF you are really serious about your blogging photography, you should opt for a DSLR camera.
You will get the best quality images and you can switch out lenses for different styles and affects on your photos.
The battery life is typically longer with this camera type. As far as blogging cameras go, this is a better choice than the point and shoot.
However, keep in mind this option is more expensive than the simple point-and-shoot.
Mirrorless Cameras
The mirrorless camera type is just like the DSLR, except it doesn’t use mirrors to take pictures. Obviously, that’s why the name!
While it has the same features as the DSLR, it tends to be more compact and lightweight, making it a popular camera choice with bloggers.
You will still have the benefit of interchangeable lenses, control over your images, and improved photograph quality.
However, because the sensor is smaller than the DSLR cameras, the quality of the photos is not quite up to the DSLR level. They also don’t have as long of a battery life.
The only negative is this type of camera is more complicated to to use and requires some learning. A photography class might be in order for this camera. It is also bulkier and heavier in weight.
Best Camera Accessories For Bloggers
After you’ve chosen the best blogging camera for you, you might want to consider investing in some additional accessories. Some of them are required for most blogs, while others are useful depending on the niche.
All of these accessories will help make your blog photography life a little easier!
Tripod
A tripod is used to stabilize your camera, which is impossible to do by hand. It’s Important to consider the camera’s weight while choosing a tripod.
This tripod from Amazon is a nice option that works for cameras and phones.
Hard Drive
Any blogger should have a hard drive on hand to help stay on top of their work. It allows you to erase unwanted files from your memory card without losing them entirely.
A hard drive like this one also supports the protection of your footage, ensuring that it does not become corrupted or lost.
External Microphone
Most cameras don’t have the ideal microphone audio built-in. As a result, having the option to connect an external microphone is often preferable.
Look for a microphone jack camera, as this may be necessary, especially if you plan to Vlog.
Memory Cards
Memory cards are required to keep your camera’s files safe. The majority of cameras use an SD card, though this varies by device and manufacturer.
This one from Samsung is just $19.99
Gimbal
If you’re a Vlogger looking to make cinematic videos, you’ll need a gimbal.
The camera may move around its axes on this pivoting platform, resulting in stabilized pictures. You can eliminate any shaking or blur with a gimbal for smooth camera movements.
Camera bag
If you purchase a camera for blogging, you absolutely will need a camera bag. Especially because you will likely have accessories like lenses, and memory cards.
A bag like this one will help you keep everything in one place and keep your camera safe.
Photo Editing Software
Once you have your camera chosen, you have to start using photo editing software. It will make a huge difference in your photos!
With photo editing software, you can fix photos that are too dark, erase blemishes and add filters to make yourself look even better!
Here are a couple of great options for editing your photos:
- Lightroom
- Affinity Photo
- Capture One Pro 21
Frequently Asked Questions about blogging cameras
What is a Good Blogging Camera?
As we already mentioned, any of the cameras in this list would make a good blogging camera. Ultimately, it depends on what features you are most concerned with.
Maybe you want a budget-friendly camera, or you need something for a vlog. Figure out your most important features, and choose according to that.
And, you can’t go wrong with our overall best camera pic, the .Canon G7X Mark II.
What is the Best Camera for Blogging for Beginners?
If you are a beginning blogger, you might want to start with an affordable, easy-to-use camera that sill provides fantastic pictures and some flexibility.
The G7X Mark II, is a great option, since it is the best overall camera.
Another great camera pick for beginners is the Sony ZV-1 from our list above.
What Camera do bloggers use for Instagram?
For Instagram, you will likely need one of the more advanced cameras to ensure the best possible photo quality.
The Sony A7R III or the Sony A7 III would be a good choice of camera for an Instagrammer.
In addition, if you are creating stories or videos on Instagram, you might opt for the Canon Powershot which is good for vloggers.
Final thoughts on the best cameras for blogging
There are plenty of camera options out there for bloggers. If you are just starting out, opt for an entry level one.
As you and your blog continue to grow, step up to on of the mid-range or professional cameras in this post.
The point is to choose a quality investment camera, you’ll see the results in your images and your blog!
More posts about blogging:
15 Blog Post Ideas for Beginners
14 Best Blogging Platforms to Make Money
How to Write a Good Blog Description
Best Google AdSense Alternatives
15 Blog Post Ideas for Beginners
Best Free Social Media Schedulers
My Favorite Blogging Tools:
Tailwind for Pinterest to help boost your blog traffic
ConvertKit for email automation and landing page conversions
Keysearch for keyword research
Elegant Themes for design themes
Canva for graphic design
Stupid Simple SEO course for SEO tactics
Long Tail Pro keyword research
Fiverr for freelance designers