What is the best camera for wedding photography? Capturing that perfect wedding moment takes skill, planning, and the best equipment. Professional wedding photographers know where to be. And they know when and how to get the most out of their cameras.
Choosing the best camera for wedding photography doesn’t have to be complicated… whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting. Here we look at some of the best wedding photography cameras available. Our top pick is a professional and reliable piece of kit. It has great video abilities and amazing autofocus. Have a look at the Canon 5D Mark IV!
What’s the Best Camera for Wedding Photography?
Here’s a quick look at our top choices. Jump to the next section for even more details.
- Quality sensor produces detailed and vibrant images even at high ISOs
- Dual Pixel AF with eye detection
- User-friendly touch-to-focus screen
- 900-shot battery life
- Cinema-quality (DCI) 4K video
- Excellent 32.5 MP APS-C sensor
- Dual Pixel AF with eye detection
- Decent frame rate of 10 fps
- Good, 1,300-shot battery life
- Live View and 4K/30p Ultra HD video
- Long-exposure presets
- Plenty of autofocus (AF) points
- Nice, uncropped 4K video capabilities
- Dual memory card slots (UHS-II)
- Excellent low-light focusing
- Lightweight and portable
- Superb low-light dynamic range
- Dual memory card slots
- Relatively affordable
- Excellent in-body image stabilization
- Compact and ergonomic design
- Fantastic expandable ISO range
- Rapid burst speeds
- Impressive 20 fps continuous shooting
- Lightning-fast autofocus
- Improved ergonomics
- Great file transferring speeds
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization to counter camera shake
- Brilliant 26.1 MP sensor
- Rapid 30 fps burst mode
- Smooth 4K video
- 100% autofocus coverage
- Weather-sealed body
- Multi-shot, handheld, high-res mode
- Compact and lightweight
- 60 fps RAW and JPEG image capture
- 7 stops of image stabilization
- Simulated Live ND filters
- Quick-and-easy Pro Capture (action) and Starry Sky AF modes
- Excellent video options
- Affordable for a medium format
- Incredible 51.4 MP sensor resolution
- Autofocus works well in low-light
- Excellent low-light performance with high ISO settings
- Durable weather-sealed body
- Incredible image quality
- Wide max aperture of f/1.7
- Fast 20 fps burst rate with the mechanical shutter
- Sleek and stylish camera body
- Easy Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
1. Canon 5D Mark IV
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
 Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Canon EF
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
30.4 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
 |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
61 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
32,000 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
7 fps |
| Video |
Video
 |
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
 3.2" |
| Extra Features |
Extra Features
Weather-resistant, GPS, Wi-Fi
|
The Canon 5D Mark IV is for professional wedding photographers. It’s for those who value quality and durability over size and weight. The Canon 5D was the most common camera for wedding photography. (Until the recent surge of mirrorless cameras.) And it’s easy to see why.
Its weather-sealed ruggedness is combined with outstanding image quality and battery life. Plus, it has great low-light performance. And paired with Canon’s professional L lenses, it makes for sharp images in as little as moonlight.
Like all big DSLR cameras, a 5D with an L lens can weigh about 2 kg (5 lbs). So if you are a two-camera person, you may want to invest in a harness to help spread the weight.
2. Canon EOS 90D
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
 APS-C |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Canon EF/EF-S
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
33 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
45 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
25,600 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
10 fps |
| Video |
Video
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
 3" |
| Extra Features |
Extra Features
Vari-angle touchscreen
|
The EOS 90D is the top of Canon’s consumer line APS-C DSLR cameras. The body and sensor are smaller than those of the 5D. But it has a lower price. It has a 32.5 MP sensor and a 10 fps shoot rate. So the 90D is an incredible entry-level wedding photography camera.
Its handy flip-out screen allows you to use Live mode to get creative angles you might otherwise miss. And its compatibility with all Canon’s EFS and EF lenses. This means you can upgrade from affordable to high-end glass.
The Canon EOS 90D is the best entry-level DSLR camera for wedding photography.
3. Nikon D780
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Nikon F
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
25 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
51 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
51,200 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
12 fps |
| Video |
Video
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
3.2" |
| Extra Features |
Extra Features
Dual autofocus (AF) system
|
Nikon’s full frame DSLR camera has fewer megapixels. But it has a massive 273-point hybrid focusing system and -5 EV low-light performance. And these features more than makes up for it.
The Nikon D780 is a professional wedding photography camera with impressive autofocus capability. The AF eye detection locks on and tracks your subject as they move.
Professional wedding photographers choose the Nikon D780 to capture the moment… regardless of the environment. But all that tech comes at a price, in both weight and dollars.
4. Nikon Z6 II
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Nikon Z
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
24.5 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
273 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
51,200 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
14 fps |
| Video |
Video
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
3.2" |
| Extra Features |
Extra Features
ProRes video and USB-C chargeable while shooting
|
Nikon took the full frame and low-light capabilities of the D780. And it put them into a mirrorless camera body. Nikon designed it for those who record wedding videos. So the Z6 II records 10-bit ProRes RAW video files to a compatible ATOMOS recorder.
This doesn’t mean it skimps on the stills. The hybrid AF system is fast and sharp. And its low-light performance beats any DSLR camera. If the compact Nikkor Z lenses aren’t enough, you can use the FTZ mount adaptor. It gives you access to the whole range of Nikkor F lenses.
This is the best Nikon camera for serious wedding photography videographers.
5. Canon EOS R6
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Canon RF
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
20.1 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
1,053 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
102,400 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
20 fps |
| Video |
Video
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
3" |
| Extra Features |
Extra Features
Amazing low-light performance
|
The Canon EOS R6 is a mirrorless camera aimed at a professional wedding photographer. Its unrivaled low-light performance makes it ideal for those dance floor moves at the end of the day. And its 20 fps means you won’t miss any magic moments.
Like the Nikon Z6 II, you can use a mount adapter. The EF-EOS R gives you access to Canon’s full range of lenses. But you will sacrifice some focusing speed. The Dual Pixel AF uses almost the whole frame to focus. And it has 1053 AF areas to track people and animals.
The R6 is a professional wedding photography camera for those who want to buy into the Canon brand. But the cost of RF-mount lenses may put off existing Canon users.
6. Sony a9 II
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Sony FE
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
24.2 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
693 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
51,200 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
20 fps |
| Video |
Video
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
3" |
| Extra Features |
Extra Features
Long-life batteries, silent shooting, and upscale video to 8K
|
Sony is well known for its range of mirrorless cameras. The Sony a9 II has super-fast focusing with 693-point phase-detection AF. Plus, it has a silent shutter and a small body. So you can unobtrusively shoot those special wedding moments. This makes it their best camera for wedding photography.
The in-body image stabilization means you can use analog lenses with pin-sharp results. This gives a vintage look to your work. Plus, the focusing and burst rates are both speedy. And the Zeiss lenses produce beautiful bokeh.
The Sony a9 II is for professional wedding photographers. It’s for those who want powerful full frame imaging in a tiny package. But it’s a small camera with a hefty price tag.
7. Fujifilm X-T3
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
APS-C |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Fujifilm X
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
26 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
425 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
12,800 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
20 fps |
| Video |
Video
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
3" |
| Extra Features |
Extra Features
Film Simulation modes
|
For those who like the classic film camera vibe, look no further than the Fujifilm X-T3. Its tiny form houses a very clever crop sensor. And the smaller sensor rivals the full frame cameras listed above!
The body looks and works like a classic film camera with dial controls. And the software has built-in Fuji film simulations to give an analog feel to your photos.
The 10-bit video option is a nice feature. But without in-body image stabilization, you need a tripod or gimbal to get the most out of it.
It’s an excellent mirrorless for those starting or moving from analog to digital. And it’s perfect for those wedding photographers who love its vintage look and feel.
8. Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
 Micro Four Thirds |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Micro 4/3
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
20 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
121 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
25,600 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
60 fps |
| Video |
Video
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
3" |
| Extra Features |
Extra Features
Links to Olympus audio recorders
|
The Olympus E-M1 Mark III is the flagship of the OM-D range. Olympus is not as commonly seen as the Canon and Nikon cameras in this list. But the E-M1 is a mirrorless camera with a feature set perfect for wedding photography.
Olympus has a partnership with Zuiko lenses in much the same way Sony partnered with Zeiss. So there are quality Zuiko lenses available.
Plus, the E-M1 Mark III can focus in extremely low light. And it has a compact, lightweight body. So the E-M1 Mark III is a versatile camera for wedding photography.
For video recording, the E-M1 Mark III links to Olympus audio devices like the LS100. This enables you to get the mics close to the action while filming from a distance.
It’s a superb choice for wedding photographers who produce videos. Or it’s for those who already have Micro Four Thirds mount lenses.
9. Pentax 645Z
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
 Medium Format |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Pentax 645AF2
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
51.4 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
27 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
204,800 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
3 fps |
| Video |
Video
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
3.2" |
| Extra Features |
Extra Features
Multi-Pattern white balance
|
Traditionally, photographers shot weddings on medium or large format cameras. And the Pentax 645Z is the most affordable digital medium format camera today.
With a whopping 51.4 MP sensor, every beautiful detail comes in posed group portraits. In a multi-exposure mode, you can combine up to nine exposures in one image. Multi-pattern (Multi-P) white balance detects different light sources in the frame. And it adjusts them automatically.
This camera is for serious traditional wedding photography. It’s for posed shots that you set up rather than ones captured on the fly. You won’t take candids or action shots with its low burst rate of 3 fps.
10. Leica Q2
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Fixed
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
47.3 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
225 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
50,000 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
10 fps |
| Video |
Video
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
3" |
| Extra Features |
Extra Features
Fixed Summilux 28mm Lens
|
I’ve spoken to wedding photographers who shoot with a Leica Q. They all comment on how it is a fantastic camera. But they also say how it has improved their photography!
With a fixed lens, you may think the Leica Q2 is an expensive way to miss close-ups. But with 47 MP, you can crop photos without losing resolution. Plus, being forced to move to frame your shot can open up creativity you wouldn’t otherwise get using a zoom lens.
The sensational 28mm Summilux lens costs over $5,000.00 on its own. And the camera has high-quality Cinema 4K video capabilities. So this camera is the perfect fit for the arty wedding photographer.
This camera gives you famous Leica quality at a fraction of their normal prices. But it is still very expensive! If you want to go one step further, Leica does a monochrome version too!
Conclusion
When choosing the best camera for wedding photography, consider the practicalities. Do you want to look through the viewfinder or at a screen all day? Will you need two bodies and several wedding lenses? And how much will that weigh? Battery life is a big issue with mirrorless cameras. So will you buy spares or charge them at the venue or in your car?
The best camera for wedding photography is one that fits your shooting style:
- Do you shoot from the hip and capture the event as a guest? Then go for one of the mirrorless cameras like the Fuji X-T3.
- If you create video showreels, the in-body stabilization of the Sony a9 II is a great fit.
- But if you film the whole event, the Olympus E-M1 Mark III, with its link to sound recording equipment, could be for you.
- If you’re looking for a camera you can trust to capture the key moments, choose the Canon 5D IV.
