TOP CAMERAS FOR PHOTO & VIDEO
Here is a condensed list of the exact cameras that I currently shoot with and why I love them.
Looking for lenses? Keep scrolling for my top recommendations.
Best All Around: Canon 1DX Mark II
In case you’re curious, this is the camera that I use on a daily basis. It is heavy and large, but I’m willing to sacrifice a little bit of comfort in order to achieve such incredible image and video quality. My favorite feature about this camera is it’s amazing ability to follow focus as I shoot video. I find this feature invaluable as I am constantly tracking quickly moving kiddos.
- Fastest shooting EOS-1D, capable of up to 14 fps full-resolution RAW or JPEG, and up to 16 fps in Live View mode with new Dual DIGIC 6+ Image Processors
- Achieves a maximum burst rate of up to 170 RAWs in continuous shooting at up to 16 fps, and 4K movies using CFast cards in the new CFast 2.0 slot
- Improved AF performance through 61-point, wide area AF system with 41 cross-type points, improved center point focusing sensitivity to -3 EV and compatibility down to f/8
- Accurate subject tracking for stills and video with new EOS Intelligent Tracking and Recognition AF with 360,000-pixel metering sensor. Working temperature range: 0�C - 45�C / 32�F - 113�F
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Affordable + Quality: FujiFilm X-T4
Another solid choice for those looking to shoot with something a little more affordable, compact, and yet still great quality. My husband shoots with this camera, so I can say with confidence that it’s awesome. It shoots 4k video, handles low light well, and is incredibly fast for a mirrorless camera. The size is also really nice – much smaller than a typical DSLR, so it is a great choice for traveling and on the go shoots.
- Putting stability in your hands: A huge part of creating great photos or videos is making sure you are in the right place at the right time – and that often means making handheld images to get to the heart of the action. X-T4’s state-of-the-art, five-axis In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS) provides up to 6.5 stops of image stabilization to make sure that, even in the midst of all the excitement, your images remain steady and sharp. Combine this with the new four-axis digital image stabilizer, and you have lots of room to maneuver.
- Performance you can rely on: For any serious image maker, having a tool that can be relied upon to perform flawlessly whenever it is required is extremely important. For this reason, X-T4 features a newly developed mechanical shutter that is the fastest and most robust in the history of the X series. Not only can it make images at 15 frames per second, but it is also rated for 300,000 actuations 2. When you combine this with its larger capacity battery that is capable of up to 600 frames per charge 2, X-T4 has the power and the durability to give you the peace of mind that you’ll never miss the perfect opportunity.
- Find the best angle for your story: When chasing the perfect image, versatility is key, so the last thing you want is to be hampered by awkward angles. The 1.62 million pixel vari-angle touchscreen LCD featured on X-T4 can be adjusted to make it visible from a wide range of positions. This not only gives you a high-quality monitor to frame with, but also provides quick and simple controls when you need them most. On the flip side, there are times when you need to minimize the light and distractions that a screen can create. That’s why X-T4’s LCD has been designed to easily fold away so it is completely hidden from view, leaving the updated 3.69 million pixel/100fps electronic viewfinder to help you focus on the moment at hand.
- When your story needs movement: The modern image maker is blurring the lines between photography and videography, and X-T4 has been designed to celebrate this new generation of hybrid creativity. With the simple flick of a switch, movie mode is activated, meaning X-T4 is capable of recording both professional-level DCI 4K/60p and Full HD/240p super slow-motion video. It is also possible to record F-Log footage in 10-bit color, straight to the card. What’s more, the innovative AF-C subject tracking works in low-light conditions down to -6EV and the camera’s use of a new, high capacity battery lets you push your creative limits.
- Powerful image manipulation made easy: For over 85 years, Fujifilm has produced photographic films that have been used by some of the world’s best-known moviemakers to create some of the world’s most successful movies. This legendary reputation in color science is celebrated with their hugely popular selection of Film Simulations, which digitize some of the industry’s most iconic films and puts them right at your fingertips. X-T4 introduces Eterna Bleach Bypass, the newest addition to this much-loved collection of film simulation modes available in the X Series product line, which creates a beautiful de-saturated, high-contrast look that any image-maker will find irresistible.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best for Video + Photo: Canon 7D Mark IV
An excellent choice for entry level DSLR video and photography. This was the camera I started with and used for years, even for commercial gigs. Highly recommend it as a solid entry level choice.
- 20.2 MP CMOS sensor and ISO 100-16000
- High speed continuous shooting up to 10.0 fps
- 65-point all cross-type AF system
- Stunning Full HD video with Custom Movie Servo AF (speed and sensitivity)
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF enables you to shoot video like a camcorder
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best for Affordable Photo: Canon 5D Mark IV
This is the camera I used in between owning the 7D and my current 1DX. Perhaps the most popular choice out there among lifestyle photographers, this camera handles both video and photo exceptionally well. It’s a good mid-range price point that is still affordable for professionals or serious hobbyists. Can’t go wrong with this one.
- New 30.4 Megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor for versatile shooting in nearly any light, with ISO range 100-32000; expandable up to 50-102400 (equivalent ISO).
- 4K Motion JPEG video (DCI cinema-type 4096 x 2160) at 30p or 24p; in- camera still frame grab of 4K 8.8-Megapixel images; multiple video options include Full HD up to 60p, and HD up to 120p.
- Superb Dual Pixel CMOS AF for responsive and smooth AF during video or live view shooting; LCD monitor has a full touchscreen interface, including selection of AF area.
- Excellent performance - up to 7.0 fps continuous shooting speed with high-performance DIGIC 6+ Image Processor for improved speed and excellent image quality.
- Use the EOS Utility Webcam Beta Software (Mac and Windows) to turn your Canon camera into a high-quality webcam, or do the same using a clean HDMI output.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
TOP LENSES FOR PHOTO & VIDEO
Arguably your lens is just as, if not more, important than your camera body.
Think about it – you’re spending a good amount of money for a great camera, but if you’re shooting with a kit lens you are simply missing out on any great quality that camera offers.
The quality of the glass that the image travels through to reach your camera is just as important as the camera itself.
What I’m trying to say is – don’t skimp on your lens choice. Save up and buy 1 or 2 staple lenses that will suit most of your shooting needs.
Another great thing about quality lenses is that they are a longterm investment. The technology doesn’t change as quickly as the camera body, so you can purchase a great lens and keep it for a number of years.
Here are a few of my favorites:
Best All-Around + Most Versatile for Variety of Shooting Styles: Canon 24-70mm
If you can only pick one, pick this one. It is a bit bulky, but it is such a great lens that I still won’t travel without it. This is the kind of lens that you can keep on your camera at all times and capture just about anything. Since it’s a zoom lens, you can capture a variety of angles without changing lenses. Close-ups, wide shots, portraits, landscapes, you name it.
- High image quality and bright f/2.8 aperture zoom RF L lens
- Optical image stabilization of up to 5 Stops of shake correction
- High speed, smooth and quiet autofocus with Nano USM
- Min. Focusing distance of 0.69 ft by 0.21M (wide), 1.25 ft. by 0.38M (tele)
- A control ring for direct setting changes
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best for Documentary + Portraits: Canon 35mm
This is my favorite lens for low light scenarios and the best for capturing that airy, dreamy look. Because the aperture is so wide, you can do a lot with this lens. It’s my go-to for indoor newborn shoots, as well as shots of my littles around the house. 35mm most closely mimics what your eye sees, so it’s great for the real-life, documentary feeling.
- Focal Length & Maximum Aperture: 35mm f/1.4
- Lens Construction: 14 elements in 11 groups
- Diagonal Angle of View: 63
- Focus Adjustment: AF with full-time manual
- Closest Focusing Distance: 0.92 ft./0.28m Filter Size: 2.8 in./72mm diameter Max. Diameter x Length, Weight: 3.2 x 4.2 in., approx. 26.8 oz. / 80.4 x 105.5mm, approx. 760g
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best for Portraits, Close-Ups, Soft Backgrounds: Canon 50mm
This lens is like the icing on the cake – the best icing you’ve ever had. Yes, it’s expensive. No, it’s not the first lens I’d recommend. BUT, it’s worth its weight in gold. If you truly want to expand your photography and videography into the next realms of creativity, then this is the best.
It takes some practice to master this lens, because the aperture is so wide. However, once you do – your photos will be so light, airy, and beautiful.
- Weather-resistant standard lens
- Focal Length & Maximum Aperture-50mm F/1.2, Closest Focusing Distance - 1.48 ft. / 0.45m
- AF with full-time manual focus, 72mm filter size
- Ultrasonic Motor (USM), Lens not zoomable
- Purchase this product between May 1, 2016 and July 30, 2016 and get 13 months of free damage protection from Canon. The product must be registered within 30 days of the purchase date to be eligible.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best Travel, Compact Lens & Best Gift Idea: Canon 40mm
I LOVE this compact little lens. It’s my everyday, go-to choice, especially if we are out and about. It’s also my favorite for trips and vacations. Because my camera body is so stinking big, this lens helps me manage some space and size when we are traveling. And for the price of this lens, it is super sharp and fast. I highly recommend adding this to your main kit. Great gift idea since the price is so affordable.
- EF Mount Lens
- Aperture Range: f/2.8-22
- 64mm Equivalent on APS-C Cameras
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Thanks for checking out a few of my favorite things. Not only have I tested all of these products, I stand behind each and every one of them. As an Amazon affiliate, I do receive compensation for mentioning my favorite resources, however any commission that I earn comes at no cost to you. I hope you end up enjoying some of these helpful tools as much as I do!
