Watching birds is a great hobby. Now that you might already have picked up the right gear, binoculars and scope, you might want to take the birds home as the next step. This is a pretty bad idea, BUT. The next natural step is investing in a camera – this way you can almost bring the birds home with you. Having the right camera can turn these moments into lasting memories.
Quick Recommendations
After testing a range of cameras in different photography settings, particularly for capturing fast-moving birds, I think the Canon EOS R5 provides the best overall value for most birdwatchers. It combines a 45-megapixel full-frame sensor with advanced animal eye autofocus. This will give you stunning image quality and super-sharp photos. It’s not a cheap camera by any means, but its versatility and performance offer excellent value for serious enthusiasts and professionals alike.
If you’re on a tight budget, the Nikon D5600 is an affordable DSLR that doesn’t skimp on image quality. With a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor and a user-friendly interface, it’s perfect for beginners trying to figure out if bird photography is for them, especially due to its affordable price. It also offers access to a wide range of Nikon lenses for future growth.
Finally, the Panasonic Lumix G9M2 is my personal favorite. It has become my go-to camera for its blend of speed, video capabilities, and portability. Its advanced autofocus with AI technology and super high-speed burst shooting make capturing fast-moving birds much easier. The effective image stabilization and rugged, weather-sealed body also allow me to shoot even when the weather doesn’t show its pretty side.
Why Trust Me
As a biologist with a lifelong passion for nature, I started my wildlife photography “career” as the next natural step in my birdwatching hobby.
Growing up with a dad who was a photographer, I’ve been lucky to test out many different cameras. I’ve tried and tested many different sensor types, sizes, and lenses.
I’ve also used them in a professional setting, documenting nests and brooding seabirds. So, I’ve learned through trial and error, which cameras excel in the field and which ones fall short.
How I Made My Choices
Selecting the cameras for this list was a hands-on process that combined my personal experiences with a lot of these models, as well as a thorough research. I’ve also learned a lot from my father being a professional photographer all his life. I wanted to recommend cameras that I know can handle the unique challenges of nature photography.
Key сriteria I looked at:
- Image Quality: Capturing the fine details of birds is essential, and for that you need a well-built sensor. I looked for cameras that deliver excellent resolution, dynamic range, and perform well in low-light conditions. This archetype of camera comes in many different shapes and forms, so there’s a lot more to look at than the quality of the picture itself.
- Autofocus and Speed: Bird photography is by its very nature super unpredictable. Birds are flying all over the place, especially if you want to take pictures of the more nimble ones. Fast and accurate autofocus, along with high burst rates, are therefore absolutely crucial for capturing these fleeting moments.
- Durability and Weather Sealing: Nature doesn’t always provide ideal conditions – in fact, more often than not it really doesn’t. I therefore chose cameras built to withstand dust, moisture, and varying temperatures, so they won’t let you down when the inevitably weather turns.
- Portability: As with all other gear you use when out in nature, heavy cameras can take away from the joy of exploring the wilderness. I therefore considered the size and weight of each camera, aiming for options that are comfortable to carry without sacrificing too much performance.
- Lens Availability: This is often overlooked, but a camera on itself doesn’t take pictures. It needs a lens. A good camera needs to be paired with the right lenses. I focused on systems that offer a wide range of lenses suitable for wildlife and landscape photography.
I also read a lot of reviews, talked to fellow photographers (especially my dad), and stayed updated on the latest advancements in camera technology. Hearing about others’ experiences is very important, and helped me gauge reliability and performance across different scenarios.
When you’re done reading this article and might have found your favorite camera, I don’t want you to buy it straight away. Look at other reviews, as many as possible, that way you will be sure to get the best possible information about the camera.
By blending my own field experiences with this research, I’ve selected cameras that I believe offer the best tools for capturing our fast avian friends. So, whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your gear, these choices are aimed to suit a variety of needs and budgets.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Camera
Choosing the right camera can be a bit overwhelming with all the options out there, but focusing on what matters most to you can make the decision much easier.
Here are some things I think you should consider before even starting to look at cameras:
- Your Photography Goals: Think about what you enjoy photographing the most, and why you want to take photos. Do you want to print them? Are they “just” for social media? I started with landscape photography but quickly found an interest in bird photography (it’s one of the occupational hazards of being a biologist). That meant I needed to change my small Lumix GX80 to a camera with fast autofocus and good performance in burst mode.
- Budget: Be realistic about how much you’re willing to invest – not just in the camera body but keep in mind you also need lenses and SD cards. I’ve learned that sometimes it’s better to start with a modest camera and invest in one or two quality lenses that you REALLY learn. Not only will you learn to be a better photographer, but you will also save a lot of money by not investing in a lot of lenses. For bird photography you need a long zoom lens 300 mm+ equivalent on 35 mm in my opinion.
- Size and Weight: I’ve trekked through Swedish forests and up the Andean mountains, and I’ve felt every extra ounce in my backpack. If you plan on long hikes or travel, I advise you to consider a camera that’s lightweight and compact. Mirrorless cameras often offer a good balance between portability and performance – I’ll come back to that.
- Durability and Weather Sealing: Nature is unpredictable. I’ve visited the Faroe Islands a lot of times and have been caught in sudden rainstorms and dusty winds more times than I can count. A camera with weather sealing and a rugged build can be a lifesaver, allowing you to keep shooting when others have to pack up. And then you might just get the perfect shot! Rain can actually add a lot to a photo.
- Lens Ecosystem: This is a tough one, and once you make the purchase of a camera, you might feel you’re stuck in one ecosystem. But if you take care of your camera, you will be able to resell it at a reasonable price. That being said, the availability of lenses is crucial. I currently use a Panasonic G9M2, which is a Micro Four Thirds camera, and they have a wide range of lenses so I could adapt to different subjects – from wide-angle landscapes to distant wildlife. Make sure the brand you choose offers the lenses you need now and ones you might want in the future – unless you will be willing to part from your camera.
- Image Quality and Sensor Size: Consider the sensor size and resolution based on your needs, especially if you plan on printing your photos. Full-frame sensors offer excellent image quality and perform well in low light, but APS-C and micro four-thirds sensors are more affordable and typically make for lighter gear. For me, the trade-off has often been worth it when I need to travel light – choosing a high-end ASP-C or micro four-thirds sensor can negate a lot of the negatives about these sensor types.
Here are my top picks for the best cameras for bird photography:
- Best Overall: Canon EOS R5
- Best Budget: Nikon D5600
- Best for Professionals: Nikon D850
- Best Mirrorless: Sony Alpha 7R IV
- Best for Beginners: Canon EOS Rebel T8i
- Best Compact: Panasonic Lumix FZ1000M2
- Personal Favorite: Panasonic Lumix G9M2
Check out the Notable Mentions for three other cameras that didn’t quite make my top list but are still worth considering.
Best Overall: Canon EOS R5
The Canon EOS R5 has quickly become a standout choice for nature photographers. With its 45-megapixel full-frame sensor, you can really get some high-resolution pictures ready to be printed, and with that many megapixels, you also get the ability to crop your photos more aggressively.
One feature that really shines is the animal eye autofocus. Canon has really done some magic here, because it tracks moving wildlife, making it easier to capture those fleeting moments. The in-body image stabilization has also been a game-changer for handheld shots, reducing the need for a tripod in many situations.
Lens compatibility is excellent with Canon’s RF mount, and you can also use EF lenses with an adapter. This flexibility means you can upgrade your lenses over time or use existing lenses if you’re transitioning from a DSLR.
What I like
- Exceptional image quality. The high-resolution sensor delivers sharp and vibrant photos.
- Advanced autofocus. Animal eye detection makes tracking wildlife much easier.
- In-body image stabilization. Great for handheld shooting in various conditions.
- Versatile lens options. Access to both RF and adapted EF lenses.
What I don’t like
- High price point. It’s an investment, especially when adding quality lenses.
- Shorter battery life. Mirrorless cameras tend to consume more power.
Best Budget: Nikon D5600
For those just starting out or on a tighter budget, the Nikon D5600 offers solid performance without breaking your bank. With a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor, it produces sharp images that are more than sufficient for most bird photography needs. You can also make prints – though mostly in more modest sizes.
Because it’s an ASP-C sensor you get the benefit of a more lightweight design, which makes it easier to carry on hikes or long outings. The articulating touchscreen is handy for shooting at different angles, especially when composing shots low to the ground – a situation you will find yourself in more often than you would think.
While the autofocus isn’t the fastest, it’s reliable for less erratic subjects, and not unusable for birds in flight. Plus, with Nikon’s F-mount, there’s a vast array of lenses to choose from, allowing you to upgrade your kit as you grow.
What I like
- Affordable price. Great entry point for new photographers.
- Good image quality. Delivers sharp, detailed photos.
- Compact and lightweight. Easy to carry around.
- Lens compatibility. Access to a wide range of Nikon lenses.
What I don’t like
- Limited autofocus points. Can struggle with fast-moving subjects.
- No weather sealing. Requires careful use in bad weather.
Best for Professionals: Nikon D850
The Nikon D850 is an absolute powerhouse that’s well-suited for professional nature photographers. Its large 45.7-megapixel full-frame sensor will give you a lot of detail and dynamic range. The 153-point autofocus system is fast and accurate, crucial for capturing wildlife in motion. The camera’s rugged build and weather sealing is also a big plus.
It’s a camera I see often when I go on organized bird trips, and many sports photographers also swear by it due to its insanely fast autofocus.
Like with the Nikon D5600, there is a vast selection of Nikon F-mount lenses, including high-quality telephoto options, you can tailor your setup to any shooting scenario.
What I like
- Outstanding image quality. High resolution and excellent dynamic range.
- Robust build. Durable and weather-resistant.
- Amazing autofocus. Great for tracking moving subjects.
- Battery life. Long-lasting performance in the field.
What I don’t like
- Heavy and bulky. Can be cumbersome during long shoots.
- No in-body stabilization. Relies on lens stabilization.
Best Mirrorless: Sony Alpha 7R IV
The Sony Alpha 7R IV is a very well-known mirrorless camera, many people swear by it. It boasts a staggering 61-megapixel full-frame sensor that captures incredible detail making prints a delight to make.
The real-time eye autofocus, including animal eye AF, is top class. It locks onto subjects very quickly, ensuring sharp focus even when the birds are darting around or on the move. Because it’s a mirrorless camera, it’s way less bulky than many of the other cameras on the list. Another big plus is its amazing video capabilities, that many people actually buy it solely for.
Sony’s E-mount lens ecosystem has expanded greatly, offering plenty of options for different types of nature photography.
What I like
- Extremely high resolution. Excellent for large prints and detailed crops.
- Advanced autofocus system. Reliable tracking of both humans and animals.
- Compact design. Easier to handle during long sessions.
- In-body stabilization. Helps reduce camera shake.
What I don’t like
- Large file sizes. Requires substantial storage and processing power.
- Complex menu system. Takes time to navigate and customize.
Best for Beginners: Canon EOS Rebel T8i (EOS 850D)
The Canon EOS Rebel T8i is a friendly option for those new to photography. It sports a capable 24.1-megapixel APS-C sensor that delivers quality images suitable for sharing on social media and modest prints.
I like its intuitive interface and guided menus, which help newcomers understand the camera’s features and cameras in general. It’s autofocus is also pretty competent for general use, and the camera’s lightweight body makes it convenient for everyday shooting.
With access to Canon’s extensive range of EF and EF-S lenses, you have room to grow your collection as your skills develop – remember that lenses are half the camera system!
What I like
- User-friendly interface. Great for learning the ropes.
- Decent image quality. Good for various types of photography.
- Lightweight body. Easy to carry around.
- Expandable lens options. Wide range to choose from.
What I don’t like
- Limited advanced features. May outgrow it quickly.
- No weather sealing. Not ideal for harsh conditions.
Best Compact: Panasonic Lumix FZ1000M2
If you’re looking for simplicity without the hassle of changing lenses, the Lumix FZ1000M2 is worth considering. It features a 20.1-megapixel 1-inch sensor and a built-in Leica lens with a 16x optical zoom. It’s a pretty competent little shooter.
I appreciate its versatility – the zoom range covers most scenarios, from wide-angle landscapes to catching details of birds pretty far away. The camera is relatively compact and lightweight, making it a good travel companion.
It’s image quality and lack of interchangeable lenses might be too much of a drawback for most people, but it’s a really simple camera that can do a lot of the things needed for bird photography.
What I like
- Versatile zoom lens. Covers a wide range without extra lenses.
- Compact design. Easy to pack and carry.
- 4K video capabilities. Good for multimedia creators.
- Affordable price. Decent value for the features.
What I don’t like
- Smaller sensor. Limits low-light performance and depth of field control.
- Fixed lens. No option to upgrade or change lenses.
Personal Favorite: Panasonic Lumix G9M2
I recently purchased the Panasonic Lumix G9M2 and it quickly became my top choice for nature photography – and everything else to be fair. Building on the solid foundation of the original G9, the M2 introduces several enhancements that make it even more of a joy to use in the field. The new 25.2-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor delivers excellent image quality with very impressive detail and dynamic range.
One feature that stands out compared to the original model is the advanced autofocus system powered by AI technology. It reliably detects and tracks subjects like birds and animals, which has been a game-changer for me when capturing fast-moving birds. The camera’s high-speed burst shooting at up to 60(!) frames per second ensures I rarely miss fast-moving birds. I also use it to make videos, and it’s one of the absolute best mirrorless video cameras out there.
The in-body image stabilization is super effective, compensating for up to eight stops of shake when paired with compatible lenses. This has allowed me to shoot handheld in low-light situations where I previously would have needed a tripod, and also makes it a joy to walk around with and film. The camera’s rugged, weather-sealed body has held up well during my outdoor adventures, and I can’t wait to bring it on more of my trips.
What I like
- Advanced autofocus. The subject detection and tracking for animals and birds are remarkably accurate.
- High-speed continuous shooting. Up to 60 fps lets me capture fast action with ease.
- Effective image stabilization. Allows for sharp handheld shots even in challenging light.
- Durable and weather-sealed body. Built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions.
- User-friendly ergonomics. Comfortable grip and intuitive controls enhance the shooting experience.
What I don’t like
- Micro Four Thirds sensor size. While portable, the smaller sensor can be limiting in low-light situations compared to full-frame cameras.
- Lens selection. Although there are many good lenses available, the ecosystem isn’t as extensive as some other brands.
Notable Mentions
- Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mk3. A rugged Micro Four Thirds beast that’s ideal for photographers who value portability without sacrificing too much performance. Its incredible image stabilization system compensates for up to 7.5 stops (!), which is a game-changer for handheld shooting. One nifty feature is its Pro Capture mode – it starts buffering images when you half-press the shutter, ensuring you never miss unexpected moments in birding action. The weather-sealed body also handles adverse conditions quite well, making it a reliable companion in the field.
- Sony Alpha 6600. This Alpha is a compact APS-C mirrorless camera that packs a lot of punch. Its real-time eye autofocus for both humans and more importantly for us, animals is impressively fast and accurate, something you’re really going to appreciate when tracking birds especially in flight. The camera’s lightweight design also makes it easy to carry during long hikes, and the long-lasting battery is a bonus for extended shooting sessions, reducing your need to pack multiple batteries (that you often will forget…). Paired with Sony’s growing line of E-mount lenses, it offers flexibility for various nature photography needs.
- Canon EOS R6. The EOS R6 strikes an impressive balance between speed, performance, and affordability. With a 20-megapixel full-frame sensor, it especially excels in low-light situations – a common challenge in early morning or late evening bird photography. Like some of the other cameras on this list, it also comes with a handy animal detection, reliably tracks moving subjects. Pair this with a respectable in-body image stabilization and you have a nice littler shooter. It’s a quite strong contender if you’re looking for high-end features without the higher price tag of the EOS R5.
Conclusion
Coming into the world of cameras is often confusing and overwhelming with a lot of new things to learn. Choosing the right camera is a personal choice that hinges on your specific needs, interests, and not least of all – budget.
Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience behind the lens, there’s most likely a perfect camera out here for you. Consider what matters most to you – be it image quality, portability, autofocus speed, or the availability of lenses – and let that guide your decision.
I’ve listed some cameras that will fit a broad selection of needs in the world of bird photography, and all of these are good cameras to look more into. If you’ve found one that you particularly like, I would recommend you go read other reviews about it and even go to a store to see if you can get your hands on one to try it.
I’ve been going to the same camera store my dad has gone to for over 40 years, so I’ve built a trusting relationship with them, making it possible for me to take home some cameras and test them out. Most of the local camera stores are very helpful to guide you to the best camera for you!
Remember, the best camera is the one that feels comfortable in your hands and inspires you to get out and shoot. Don’t be afraid to start with something modest; as your skills and passion grow, you’ll have a clearer idea of what features are worth investing in and what you like and don’t like.
Above all, enjoy the process. Bird photography is as much about the experience of being outdoors as it is about the images you create.