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5 Best Cameras for Landscape Photography 2019 (With The Lenses)
Look:
I firmly believe that buying a specialized camera should be a fun process. And to make your life easier, I created this list with the top 5 best landscape cameras for 2019 (across various price points).
It gets better:
I included the best lens for landscape photography that is recommended for each camera presented in this article.
So…
This buying guide should be useful, especially if your primary task is traveling and still-life photography.
Here is a quick overview of what to expect today:
5 Best Cameras for Landscape Photography 2019
- Nikon D5500 – Sweet beginner camera for portrait and landscape photography.
- Pentax K-1 – One of the best budget full-frame DSLRs for shooting landscapes.
- Nikon D810 – Great landscape camera (plus an alternative option for scenery).
- Sony a7R II – Top rated mirrorless camera for landscape photography 2019.
- Nikon D850 – Best DSLR if you need an uncompromisingly high image quality.
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Now…
Let’s start with the one at a low-price point that will allow you to take pretty awesome photos – the Nikon D5500.
Best Beginner DSLR for Landscape Photography
Nikon D5500
- Type: Compact SLR
- Weight: 420g
- Sensor size: APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm)
- Resolution: 24 MP
- LCD: Fully articulated
- Touchscreen: Yes
- Weather resistant: No
- ISO: Auto, 100 – 25600
- Bottom line: Good starter DSLR for landscape photography, at a low price point
Look:
If you’re looking for the best budget Nikon camera for scenery photography, especially as a beginner, then this DSLR might be your best bet.
To start off…
This is a entry-level option for “advanced beginners” that came to replace the Nikon D5300, and it was the first Nikon DSLR equipped with an articulated touch screen.
If you end up picking up Nikon D5500, you will realize that this one is capable of shooting different scenes and all images do come out great.
And guess what?
Just like with all modern Nikon cameras, when shooting in low-light conditions, you can rely on this model’s confident work.
Now:
When it comes to landscape photos, you can boldly raise ISO up to 1600 without worrying about loss of detail and the image noise.
This is the case where D5500’s autofocus, along with continuous shooting, demonstrates decent speed and accuracy.
I’ll say this…
Being their first DSLR with a touch screen, Nikon company succeeded at making this implementation a successful one.
Its touch screen reacts very quickly, and navigating through the menu has become faster and easier.
However…
The only thing that bothered me a little (and probably will you too) was the lack of a GPS in this model.
Let me remind you that one of my recommended DSLRs for beginners, the Nikon D5300, does have it.
(This model also made the list of my top 9 list of the best Nikon lineup in 2019).
The thing is that for travel and landscape photography, location matters.
On the other hand, advanced amateur photographers will always be able to purchase an external GPS module.
For those who do not need it, the D5500 will cost less.
✓ What you might like about it:
- accurate work in auto mode
- articulated touch screen
- fast autofocus
- a decent speed of serial shooting
- low noise level up to ISO 3200
- good color rendition
- high image detail
- presence of built-in Wi-Fi
- in-camera image processing
✕ What you might not like about it:
- no built-in GPS
- not weather-sealed
- not too much buffer space when shooting in RAW + JPG
Recommended Lens for Nikon D5500
Truth is:
Usually the kit lenses aren’t that sharp, that’s why Sigma 18-55mm f/1.8 lens is being recommended specifically for landscape photography.
I mean, this lens is incredibly sharp.
- Important: Make sure you pick it up in a Nikon mount!
At a low price point you are going to get fantastic images out of Nikon D5500 and Sigma 18-55mm f/1.8 lens.
Nikon D5500: Great Starter DSLR for Nature Photos
Arguably, Nikon D5500 is the best budget choice for landscape photography today.
I’ll say more:
For beginner photographers, it will be a real godsend.
Accurate and confident work in auto mode will produce high-quality images even for inexperienced amateurs.
The presence of built-in filters and the possibility of in-camera image processing will improve your images even without using a computer.
In favor of the D5500 also speaks its universality.
(It is equally suitable for most photography genres, stably producing quality photo.)
Now…
If you use use Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 lens, then this camera will be a great option for landscape photography at the lowest price possible.
==> Read my full review on D5500.
Best Budget Full-Frame Camera Today
Pentax K-1
- Type: Mid-size SLR
- Weight: 1010 g
- Sensor size: FX (35.9 x 24 mm)
- Resolution: 36 MP
- LCD: Tilting
- Touchscreen: Yes
- Weather resistant: Yes
- ISO: Auto, 100-204800
- Built-in GPS: Yes
- Bottom line: Best budget full-frame DSLR on the market today
I’ll say this:
Pentax K-1 certainly is suitable for any type of shooting. (If you can get Mark II, even better.)
Basically it will be appropriate in your hunting for landscape frames, and for artistic portraits alike.
It is also a great option for other professional photography genres, including:
- wedding,
- interior, and,
- product photography.
I also feel that Pentax K-1 will be interesting for those who are choosing their first full-frame DSLR.
To such photographers, this Pentax model will offer a lot for a relatively small price tag.
What else can I add?
Well…
We have a camera that offers:
- a very effective optical stabilization system,
- the image quality of is simply magnificent (!),
- the widest dynamic range, flexible in RAW processing, low noise level,
Just to name a few.
Aren’t these qualities the most important thing to photographers?
Without doubt, its affordable price is a HUGE advantage.
In the segment of the top full-frame DSLRs, the Pentax K-1 is one of the best budget FX cameras for landscape photography that you can find in 2019.
(You know how expensive they can be!)
Now…
What are the disadvantages? – you may ask.
I personally think that the design and interface seem to be a bit “damp”.
What I mean by that is that:
- controls duplicate each other,
- a strange choice of functions for the Smart Function,
- and many “superfluous” modes, differing from each other only by the possibility (or impossibility) of using auto-ISO.
The truth is:
All this requires optimization and rationalization.
The abundance of “unique technologies” also makes Pentax K-1 quite difficult mastering.
I’m not trying to scare you away from Pentax K-1 but please understand that if you plan on getting it, you’ll need some time to get used to it.
It needs to be adjusted for you.
✓ What you might like about it:
- excellent image quality: low noise, the widest dynamic range
- 5-axis stabilization
- unique tilting screen
- two SD-card slots
- full-featured Live View mode
- Pixel Shift, AstroTracer feature, antimoire
- convenient shooting in RAW (PEF), JPEG, and in the universal DNG format
- built-in GPS and Wi-Fi
- low price for a camera in its category
✕ What you might not like about it:
- not the most advanced AF for a FX DSLR, a small coverage area for phase AF
- low speed of continuous shooting, small buffer
- when using Pixel Shift, HDR shooting and other technologies that load the processor, make it work a bit slower
Recommended Lens for Pentax K-1
If you want to create sweet landscape photos, it is recommended that you pair up your Pentax K-1 with Pentax 24-70mm f/2.8 lens.
On a full-frame DSLR like the new Pentax K-, this lens captures an angle of 74º in the horizontal direction when you set it at 24mm.
And that is GOOD for landscape photography.
Great Budget Full-Frame DSLR for Landscapes
A big step up from Nikon D5500 is Pentax K-1, which has an amazing sensor stacking technology, paired with the Pentax 24-70 f/2.8 lens.
Who is this product for?
It is clear that professionals are unlikely to abandon their camera systems that they use now and got for Pentax instead.
However, K-1 has everything to be a professional tool:
- it not only gives excellent quality of images,
- but it has huge shutter speed
- and is weather sealed (which I find to be important for landscape photographers).
Definitely it is for enthusiasts and creative photographers, looking for their first full frame DSLR.
Top Rated Camera for Landscapes in 2019
Nikon D810
- Type: Mid-size SLR
- Weight: 980g
- Sensor size: Full frame (35.9 x 24 mm)
- Resolution: 36 MP
- LCD: Fixed
- Touchscreen: None
- Weather resistant: Yes
- ISO: Auto, 64-12800
- Bottom line: One of the top rated full-frame options under $2000 (body only).
Here’s the deal:
Nikon D810 is a modern full-frame DSLR, designed primarily for those photographers who need uncompromisingly high image quality.
(Which sure is the case with landscape/nature photography.)
Thanks to the 36-megapixel sensor without an optical low-pass filter, this Nikon model provides the highest detail among all digital SLRs.
I must warn you though:
The control interface of the D810 is designed for an experienced photographer, and amateurs may find it way too complicated.
This being said, it may take some time for a beginner photographer to learn the tips and tricks of the camera.
But…
The efficiency of control is at an altitude thanks to the abundance of individual buttons and selectors, as well as the possibility of fine-tuning many of them.
Here’s the kicker:
Its pretty high burst rate and excellent autofocus allows you to use the D810 for reportage and documentary photography too.
(In case landscape photography isn’t the only favorite photography genre of yours.)
A word on resolution.
Don’t be afraid of high resolutions. When shooting with insufficient lighting, it allows a more effective noise reduction.
In addition to that, you always have the opportunity to take pictures with a lower resolution, including in the S-RAW format.
The advantages of D810 include:
- excellent ergonomics,
- a waterproof body,
- an ability to work with two flash drives, and,
- a convenient optical viewfinder with an exhaustive set of output parameters.
On a separate note, I want to mention the video mode.
Nikon D810 is maximally adapted for professional video shooting.
It allows you to:
- use external microphones and headphones,
- record uncompressed stream from the HDMI-output
- save on the flash drive rollers up to 1080 @ 60p.
There is even a special Picture Control profile, which gives the maximum color correction capabilities for post-processing of video – Flat.
But any, even the most perfect camera, has its drawbacks.
What are those drawbacks?
In my opinion, the disadvantages of the Nikon D810 include:
- a relatively high cost,
- the possibility to face the moiré effect (in rare cases),
- as well as not too much buffer capacity when shooting in RAW.
✓ What you might like about it:
- the highest detail of the images
- excellent color rendering
- quality picture up to ISO 3200-6400
- high burst of rate given its resolution
- large buffer when shooting in JPG
- excellent autofocus
- advanced ergonomics
- dust and moisture protection
- extensive control settings
- video shooting up to 1080 @ 60p
- input for microphone and headphone output
- working with 2 memory cards
✕ What you might not like about it:
- relatively high cost
- the possibility of moire (occasionally)
- a small buffer when shooting in RAW and S-RAW
Recommended Lens for Nikon D810
While there are many lenses that you could use for landscape photography, you might want to start with Nikkor AF-S 16-35mm f/4 G and then go from there in the future.
Thoughts on Nikon D810 for Landscapes
(And A Cheaper Alternative If You’re On A Low Budget)
Without a doubt:
Nikon D810 with Nikkor 16-35mm f/4 lens sure is a great option.
You will find that it will be especially useful in:
- landscapes,
- wedding, and,
- advertising photography.
Thanks to the 36-megapixel sensor without an optical low-pass filter, this camera provides excellent color rendering and offers the highest detail of the image.
Now, I know that this Nikon might be a bit pricey, so there is a great, cheaper alternative: Nikon D750 with Tamron 15-30mm f/2.8 lens.
D750 is a fantastic DSLR and lens (and significantly more affordable than D810 with Nikkor 16-35mm f/4 lens).
I’ve written reviews on both, so I highly suggest you check them out.
==> Click here if you’d like to read my FULL review on D810.
Best Mirrorless Camera for Landscape Shots
Sony a7R II
- Type: SLR-style mirrorless
- Weight: 625 g
- Sensor size: Full frame (35.9 x 24 mm)
- Resolution: 42 MP
- LCD: Tilting
- Touchscreen: None
- Weather resistant: Yes
- ISO: Auto, 100-25600 (expands to 50-102400)
- Bottom line: One of the best mirrorless options for nature photography in 2019
Look:
As of 2019, Sony a7R III is probably THE best hybrid (mirrorless) camera for landscape photography, but I decided to include Mark II version here as a cheaper alternative.
So…
This section here is for those who are looking for the best mirrorless under $5000, including the lens recommended here.
With Amazon deals, you might even get a better price.
(Speaking of which, see my guide on how to find good photography deals here.)
Anyway:
Sony Alpha A7R II is a symbolic model which has gathered all of Sony’s most advanced technologies.
This product has amazing photo and video capabilities, as well as presents the latest developments in the field of microelectronic production.
The sensor has 42 megapixels which is not the record one but it was the first full-frame sensor in the world, created using the BSI technology.
Note: In a classic CMOS sensor, the photosensitive element is surrounded by “strapping” and numerous conductors. The real area of the photosensitive element is never equal to the area of the pixel.
A bit of history here:
Let me remind you that the use of BSI-technology some time ago allowed tiny smartphones’ sensors to reach such a high level of quality that they were able to compete with cameras.
Then BSI-sensors then came to be introduced in point-and-shooters, significantly raising the bar of quality.
And now we see this technology being introduced in one of the world’s best mirrorless camera.
Back to our topic…
The Sony Alpha A7R Mark II sensor has no optical low-pass filter. As a result, this further increases the detailization of images.
And by the way, you won’t see a lot of moire in the photos.
(The specificity of multi-megapixel sensors is that it’s really hard to get moire on them.)
In a nutshell, Sony a7R II has…
- well-developed ergonomics,
- finely tuned interface,
- professional video shooting with a resolution of up to 4K,
- and an effective optical stabilizer,
… all of which are enclosed in a really compact body.
Add to this combo an excellent speed and hybrid autofocus (compared to previous Sony models).
Are there cons with Sony Alpha A7R II?
Certainly.
The main one is its price tag.
Something unique simply cannot be cheap.
Also:
An unusual interface may confuse the “old-school” (DSLR) photographers when testing out this mirrorless monster for the first time.
✓ What you might like about it:
- highest resolution = 42 megapixels
- absence of optical low-pass filter
- low noise up to ISO 6400
- wide dynamic range
- effective stabilizer
- silent shutter
- advanced ergonomics with a customizable interface
- improved hybrid autofocus
- large viewfinder
- 4K-video shooting
- WiFi & other additional features
- two batteries and a charger included
✕ What you might not like about it:
- relatively high price tag
- not instant switch-on time
- unusual interface for old-school (SLR) photographers
Recommended Lens for Sony a7R II
Sony 24-70 and 16-35mm f/2.8 are absolutely stellar lenses for landscape photography.
Awesome Mirrorless Camera for Nature Photography
Truth is:
Sony A7R II is the perfect choice for those photographers and videographers who need the highest possible technical quality.
If you’re involved with:
- stock photography business,
- nature/landscapes and wildlife,
- advertising,
- work in a studio,
- and are a travel photographer (videographer),
… then Sony Alpha A7R Mark II is for you.
This camera can always be at hand and provide excellent results in any conditions.
What else can you ask for?
Best DSLR for Landscape Photography 2019
Nikon D850
- Type: Mid-size DSLR
- Weight: 1005 g
- Sensor size: Full frame (35.9 x 24 mm)
- Resolution: 45 MP
- LCD: Tilting
- Touchscreen: Yes
- Weather resistant: Yes
- GPS feature: None
- ISO: Auto, 64-25600 (32-102400)
- Bottom line: Best Nikon DSLR for landscape and wildlife photography in 2019.
Truth is:
If you want to go more with an old-school options then Nikon D850 is the best DSLR for landscape photography that you can get in 2019.
The Nikon D850 is not just an upgrade of the good old D800 (which, in fact, was the D810).
It’s a completely new camera with a lot of interesting and practical features.
Here’s the thing:
This type of gear can often be found in the hands of professionals as they have proven themselves in various types of shooting such as wedding, studio, and/or landscape.
So…
If you’re a beginner, you might want to consider entry-level DSLRs instead, such as:
- D5500 (the first one in this list),
- Nikon D5300 DSLR (a cheaper alternative to D5500),
- Nikon D3400
- Canon EOS Rebel T6i
Anyway:
Despite the avalanche of various innovations, the main intrigue in the Nikon D850 remains its sensor.
This was the first time that a BSI-CMOS sensor was used in Nikon products.
As I’ve mentioned earlier, it’s designed to provide better results when working at high ISO.
Also, for the first time the sensor has such a high resolution of 45.7 Mp. At the output, we get images up to 8256 × 5504 pixels.
There is no low-pass filter on the sensor (which is a good thing).
You might ask:
“Why do I need so many megapixels”?
It’s like with time and money: you can’t have it too much. 🙂
Here’s how it works:
- More image detail – the more freedom you have in everything.
- High resolution allows you to print pictures in large format, gives room for framing and greater flexibility in processing.
For example: Retouching a portrait or a subject photo becomes much more convenient if the shot is taken in high resolution.
That is why cameras with higher resolution are so loved by studio and landscape photographers.
However…
Classic studio cameras are rarely equipped with an equally powerful autofocus and do not have such a fast continuous shooting.
This means that Nikon D850 will:
- give a high resolution not only to photographers working in the studio and with landscapes,
- but also to all those involved with the reportage shooting.
It’s absolutely worth mentioning that the DSLR combines:
- high speed with incredible detail of images,
- allows you to make high-quality shots in any conditions, including in poor lighting at high values of ISO.
Now…
While this product is great I don’t recommend it for total photography beginners, as there are no guide modes available and it will be a bit challenging to master.
✓ What you might like about it:
- high resolution 45.4 Mp
- excellent work at high ISO, low noise level up to ISO 6400
- wide dynamic range, flexibility in processing RAW files
- ease of use: improved grip, button illumination, high resolution inclined display
- touch screen
- optical viewfinder with 100% frame coverage
- quiet shutter
- noiseless Live View shooting
- fast and tenacious focusing
- high speed of continuous shooting (7 fps), capacious buffer
- 30 fps 4K video shooting
- support of modern fast memory cards XQD and SD UHS-II
✕ What you might not like about it:
- a bit slow focusing of contrast type in Live View mode
- challenging for beginner photographers
Recommended Lens for Nikon D850
As a landscape photographer you will want to get Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8 VR lens to pair it up with Nikon D850.
Nikon D850: An Amazing High-End Landscape DSLR
(Totally Worth Buying in 2019)
Without doubt:
This full-frame DSLR is a universal creative tool and positioned by the manufacturer as a model for professionals and advanced enthusiasts.
(More professional in the line of Nikon DSLRs is only the Nikon D5, but it is oriented to a different field of application: it is a quick burst-rate SLR in a killer body, created for reporters.)
Generally speaking…
The Nikon D8** series are associated not only with an amazing resolution, but also with versatility and reliability.
D850 is also protected from moisture and dust.
(After all, being environmentally sealed allows this DSLR to work in the most difficult weather conditions.)
Bottom line:
If you get Nikon D850 with 24-70mm f/2.8 VR lens, you’ll have an amazing tool for your landscape photography masterpieces.
A Word on Taking Nature and Landscape Photos
Look:
Landscape photography is one of my favourite genres not only because I love to shoot landscapes but also because I love nature.
Taking a shot of something amazing is hard work and depends a lot on luck. Basically you need to be in the right place at the right time.
Technically speaking, if you have a DSLR, landscapes are easy:
- Use the A mode
- Close the aperture to f/9-11 and min ISO
- Take a photo, check if it’s too bright/dark, adjust the exposure
If it’s a point-and-shooter:
- Use the M mode
- Set the min ISO, forcibly turn off the flash
- Take a photo, check if it’s too bright/dark, adjust the exposure
This is the basic approach.
(If you want a detailed article with the tips, let me know in the comments!)
Anyway…
For this type of genre, you don’t need a fast lens. You just need everything to be in focus and for that you need a maximum depth-of-field (DOF).
That’s why even a compact can work.
Especially with 1-inch sensors or larger. (Like these ones.)
A great budget wide-angle lens under $500 that I like is Tokina 12-24mm.
In any case, it’s one thing to be able to take a photo. Catching the moment is what matters.
5 Best Landscape Cameras Right Now (2019)
All the aforementioned products are absolutely great for landscape photography, whatever your budget is.
The fact is:
All of the above were/are used by professional photographers and it shows that the quality really is top-notch (especially Sony a7R II and Nikon D850).
Almost all of them are environmentally-sealed…
… Which means that as a landscape photographer, you will be able to shoot in any weather condition.
And all the lenses chosen here are great for landscape photography.
Note: As many of you may know, it’s the lens you have that’s more important.
So:
If you are on a budget, it might be a better idea to get a cheaper option but a stellar lens.
(For example, getting Nikon D5500 and a Sigma 15-55mm f/1.8 lens with it).
Anyway…
I really hope you enjoyed this list of the best cameras and lenses for landscape photography and let me know which one you found most suitable for you.
One last thing to mention:
If you are into sports, action or wildlife, keep in mind that unlike landscapes, sports photography requires fast focusing and high frame rate.
Therefore you’ll need different digital cameras and lenses for sports.
Choosing the Camera for Scenery Photography:
Your Thoughts?
Now…
I’d like to hear from YOU:
- What is your level of photography skills?
- Are you more into DSLRs or mirrorless options?
- Which of the aforementioned digital cameras appealed to you the most for shooting nature/landscape photography in 2019?
Let me know in the comments below!
Happy photographing!
About Author
Zarina
Founder & CEO of Digital World Beauty. My main objective here is to create a valuable resource for photography enthusiasts with honest tech reviews, course recommendations, and how-to tutorials.
Landscape cameras are the best especially when it comes to taking photos during travels.
I’ve always find it weird why the pictures I took during travel did not come out as beautiful as the ones I saw in travel blogs. Thank you so much and I appreciate your reviews on different landscape cameras to help me decide which one suits me the most.
I like how you provide unbiased reviews of the cameras and also how you include the pros and cons to help me visualize better. With so many good cameras to choose from, it might take me some time to decide which one to get. 🙂
Perhaps you could help me out?
I am a beginner photographer and I would like to spend less than 1000$ for city/skyline photos. I am not sure whether to go for a wide angle lens, or one that does all 3? What camera that you would recommend for someone like me?
Hi Lana,
1. Getting a wide angle lens would definitely be appropriate for landscape/skyline photography.
2. Nikon D5500 is a pretty good camera but I would recommend getting Sigma 18-55mm f/1.8 lens with it. However, that will be a bit over $1,000. Approximately $1,300 (the lens is incredibly sharp though).
(As an option you can get a used Nikon D5500.)
The thing is that the kit lens that comes with any camera isn’t that sharp, that’s why Sigma 18-55mm f/1.8 lens is being recommended specifically for landscape photography.
3. I think you’d really enjoy Pentax K-1 with its 24-70 f/2.8 lens for landscapes.
It exceeds your indicated budget limit though.
Instead, have a look at Pentax K-3, which is definitely within your budget (with the lens included).
The main feature of the Pentax K-3 kit is a phenomenally good picture, even despite the installed kit lens (making, for example, pictures on Canon seem very mediocre).
Hope this helps.
SLR cameras are worth it when you are determined to spend the time learning them.
Most people think that they can take good photos with their smartphones but you cannot compare the 2. Recently I bought a Sony DSLR for my wife and the photos she is making are spectacular and she is a complete newbie.
If someone is really interested in making good photos, a good DSLR is the only way.
It’s not so simple as pressing a smartphone button but with a little time invested you can create wonderful images. Great article with a lot of details and good comparisons.
It will be really helpful for people looking to buy a new SLR either experts or complete newbies, be it for landscape photography or not.
I totally agree with you on choosing a DSLR camera if you want to have spectacular photos!
Even compact (point-and-shoot) cameras can be great, if you know where to look and what to look for!
What I like to think is that with your smartphone you are taking PICTURES, with a DSLR camera you are taking PHOTOS. If you think about it, there is a difference 😉
I’m not a photographer, but if I run into one who is looking for a landscape camera, I will definitely be directing them to this page.
You go into an amazing amount of detail and give a really clear and sharp picture of the pros and cons of each camera. Well done.
Question: What is an “articulated touch screen”?
Another question: Valentine’s Day is around the corner and do you think that getting one of these (cheaper) cameras would be appropriate for my girlfriend?
She’s starting to develop a love for photography, so I thought it’d be a huge surprise for her.
Articulated touch screen is basically a screen that you can move around (it’s not fixed to camera). It makes photographer’s life easier if we want to take from different angles without lying on the ground or twisting our bodies lol.
Of course, you may consider getting digital camera as a gift to your girlfriend but you really would have to consider a lot of factors.
For example, what is your budget for a camera purchase? What is your her level of experience, is she a total noob or is she an enthusiast photographer?
This way you’ll know whether you want a basic point-and-shoot camera or a DSLR camera (more professional).
By the way, if your girlfriend is a professional photographer, it’s likely you shouldn’t get her photography-related gear. Trust me, they are picky!
If you still want to get her a solid camera gift for her that match her camera skills, then check out this article if she’s just entering the photography world.
I know you’ll have to go through a lot of articles if you really want to purchase a camera. I also understand that there is not too much before the Valentine’s to make a decision.
I can’t really just say one concrete camera choice without having additional info but as an option, if your sweetheart is a tech/gadget lover (and you need to make a decision fast), then check out these tech-related gifts for Valentine’s Day.
It’s definitely relevant for 2018 and there are some awesome Valentine’s Day gift ideas for HER 🙂
I have actually owned several Nikon digital SLR’s. They are one of my favorite cameras. I am looking to upgrade mine within the next couple of months.
Just like Apple computer or any Apple products really Nikon cameras do hold their value, too.
In your article about top rated Nikon cameras I saw that you can purchase kits for cameras.
Is there a kit for Nikon D5500? What are other lenses can you purchase with the Nikon D5500? I do take a lot of landscape photography, but it’s always a great idea to have different lenses that I can switch out.
Yes, that’s right, you can indeed purchase Nikon D5500 with kit lens and it’s definitely going to be cheaper than the ones that I included here.
The reason why I included Sigma 18-55mm f/1.8 lens is because it is a great lens specifically for landscape photography.
See, the kit lenses are usually not sharp and are OK for beginners but when you are looking for a specialized camera, you really want to the best lens possible (whatever your budget is).
It is better to get an average camera and a great lens, than a great camera than an average lens.
Just judge based on your situation – whether you want to practice your skills, or you take more nature related photos, sports photography or weddings or portraits.
The good thing is that most cameras are with interchangeable lenses, so you can get a few lenses if your budget permits.
What camera would you recommend for someone who does about 70% of landscapes and 30% wildlife? I do a lot of hiking, so I am looking for a rather light camera too. My budget is $5,000-6,000.
See, requiring a lightweight camera for wildlife is pretty tough.
You wouldn’t want to go on a hiking trip, return back and be disappointed with the quality of your images. That’s why in most cases people carry their heavy beast camera + lenses up mountains to avoid this frustration.
In any case, I suggest you look at a great hybrid camera – Sony a7R III and Sony’s 100-400mm lens for wildlife.
I hope this helps!
Yeah, you’re right. That’s what I thought too. If I will be shooting more wildlife, I may end up purchasing a Nikon D500 down the road.
Usually, people tend to take two good lenses so that’s why it’s so heavy for hiking.
But, for what it’s worth, Nikon D850 without the extra battery might also be good weight-wise & switching between the 49mps vs. the 20mps would give you multiple focal lengths.
This way, you could probably get a way with only one lens – say 24-70mm, instead of 24-70mm AND 70-200mm.
I’d like to learn about composition. Do you recommend any books specifically for landscape photography composition and exposure?
For what it’s worth, you have an extremely well laid-out and covered post/article on this aspect of digital photography. Your passion and knowledge for photography comes across clearly and I think you’re doing a great job. Thanks for your hard work.
Hi Craig,
Thanks for your kind words. In terms of books on composition and exposure, check out the following:
You might also consider checking out the courses that Digital Photography School offers. They are excellent (and for a great price too).
This is a great and detailed review. I have never owned a “fancy” camera, though I’d love to invest in one someday. Which of these do you think is easiest to use for someone who hasn’t really used anything other than a point and shoot before? Do these also do well with taking photos of people and pets, or are they really just best suited for landscape?
Welcome to the photography club, Holly! These are great questions. Here are my thoughts based on your situation:
If I were to choose 1 camera out of this particular top 5 list, then it’d definitely be Nikon D5500.
But you say you had experience with point and shoot cameras only…
In this case, I usually recommend Nikon D3400 or D5300 for beginners.
It’s best to start with less challenging DSLRs that have “Guide Mode” (or at least take some online courses to have a basic understanding how a more serious camera works).
Anyway, I happen to have reviews for these 2 Nikon cameras, to help you learn more:
Now…
While this guide was created for landscape and nature photographers, these camera options absolutely work for portraits (you’ll just need to be careful in your lens selection).
But I don’t want to overwhelm you with all these details, so first have a look at the aforementioned reviews and go with kit lenses to gain more experience first.
Alternatively, you can check out this list of high-quality compact cameras with large sensors (instead of DSLRs).
Personally, I love compacts, especially when I want to have great travel photos when I travel (without lugging bulky DSLRs around). If you into travel/street photography, definitely have a look at those 🙂
Hope this helps!
I love your site.
Tell me I have always been a Canon fan, but it isn’t listed here as one of the best cameras for landscape photography. Are these ones a lot better and what are your thoughts on the Canon brand? I use my camera mainly for people pics and haven’t tried taking landscapes with it, interested to know.
Hi Michel, thank you very much.
To answer your question:
I know my article kinda gives off a feeling that Canon is dead but just because I am not mentioning them in my top 5 list, doesn’t mean they are dying as a company.
For example:
Canon 5D IV is a sweet DSLR on the market right now.
For what it’s worth: 24-105 mm lens should be good for landscapes/portraits (24 mm width should cover most landscapes). Overall, Canon glass is amazing.
Truth is…
Canon needs to improve their noise-related sensor performance (DR, high ISO, color depth). But if I am completely honest, I think they will come back stronger with their camera body models.
(And hopefully, they’ll update their 24-70 and 70-200 f/2.8 lenses).
Anyway, I included mostly Nikon cameras because that’s what I found to be most popular/top rated among photographers lately.
And remember, while I am trying to present the most accurate info, at the end of the day my articles ARE subjective 🙂
Hi Zarina!
I’m thinking about replacing my current camera. I did a lot of research, but before making my final decision I still would like to hear your advice.
Basically I started my photography journey two years ago. Back then I purchased a small Olympus OM-D E-M10 after reading some good reviews about it. It’s been with me during my travels, I’ve done studio and product photography.
Now I’d like get more serious with it.
I want to get photos with better detail, more possibilities for blurring the background, and a dust and moisture resistant body which would be very useful for photo walks in inclement weather.
I’m also looking for a camera with an articulated screen, without which I can’t imagine you can possibly shoot outdoors with comfort.
I think that it is still possible to squeeze out more details and image quality from Olympus by buying new, better lenses, but it doesn’t really make sense, does it?
So here what my thoughts were.
At first, I was leaning towards a used/full-frame DSLR or maybe EOS 6D, but all this will be without a tilting screen.
Then I thought that the Canon EOS 80D would be perfect for my needs.
Coupled with EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM (for food and product photography) and EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5–5.6 IS STM (for landscapes and street shooting), it should fall within my $1500 budget. Well, -ish.
I considered 77D since it’s about $200 cheaper, but the problem is that this body isn’t weather sealed and unlike in 80D I won’t be able to customize almost every feature.
Based on what I said here, should I proceed with Canon 80D!? Or..?
Hi Maryann,
I’m not super familiar with Olympus cameras but it does sound more logical to get new gear than buying new lenses for your purposes.
If we talk about Canon, then yes, 80D definitely is a great choice.
I’d like to add one more thing about its dust and moisture protection. A lot of photographers say that 80D being weather sealed is a myth. Be careful using it in rainstorm.
To be honest, I wouldn’t trust Canon’s camera/lens in anything more than a very light drizzle, where you can just brush off any drops.
(For what it’s worth, Canon won’t warranty for any water-related damage, even if they claim their equipment is weather-sealed).
Whatever you do, if you plan on using a weather resistant body in rainy condition, you should also remember about having weather sealed lenses too.
And finally, consider special covers/sleeves to protect your gear from rain. Many options available on Amazon.
Hope this helps! Let me know if you have any further questions.
I don’t have a lot of lenses because of which I’d want to hold on to the Olympus system, so it makes sense upgrade to Canon.
I’m ok with “brushing off the drops” but I am pretty paranoid about water getting into places it shouldn’t be in, so I will definitely get a camera cover to protect it against rain.
And man, I didn’t think about the lens. If I were to buy weather-sealed lenses too, then it’ll definitely be way over my budget limit. In this case, I’ll probably go with 77D instead of 80D. Something to think about.
Thanks a lot for your quick reply!
Glad to help, Maryann! 🙂