12 Best Cameras for Wildlife Photography (2022)

As a beginner wildlife photographer, you want a camera for a reasonable price that you won’t regret getting but which will still let you grow into it.

If you are on a tight budget, go for a crop sensor; if you are more serious about photography, then definitely go for a full-frame sensor.

The best wildlife camera comes with fast autofocus, is great in low-light, and has a large variety of lenses available.

We Recommend

Great options for beginners

• Best point and shoot – Nikon Coolpix P1000
• Best budget all-around – Fujifilm X-T30 Mirrorless
• Beginner-friendly & fast focus – Canon EOS 90D
• Great first big boy camera – Nikon D750 FX
• Best camera for wildlife photography – Nikon D7200 DX
• Best versatile mirrorless camera – Sony Alpha a7III
• VERY fast camera – Canon EOS 7D Mark II

Great for enthusiasts

• Best for sports and wildlife – Nikon D500 DX
• VERY popular Canon camera – Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
• Flawless image quality – Nikon D850 FX
• Best for the money – Canon EOS-1DX Mark II ​
• Best for video – Canon EOS R

Best Wildlife Camera

1. Nikon D7200 DX-format DSLR Wildlife Camera

---

The Nikon D7200 is an excellent low-cost DSLR camera that can compete with many pricier options.

Wildlife photographers who are hobbyists will be very impressed with the images that this camera produces.

The 24.2 megapixel APS-C sensor will ensure picture quality despite users who may still be struggling to balance their camera settings.

Overall, the Nikon D7200 DX-Format DSLR Camera is a very forgiving camera.

Novice photographers are expected to make mistakes as they learn the ins and outs of photography, but the Nikon’s AF is intuitive enough to compensate for any user errors.

Best for: Beginner Wildlife Photography Enthusiasts
Matching wildlife lens: Nikon AF-P Nikkor 70-300mm Lens

---

Sensor: 24.2 MP DX-Format APS-C CMOS Sensor
Frames per second: 6 fps
AF points: 51-point AF System
ISO range: 100-25,600
Weight: 1.5 lbs (Body Only)
Video: Full HD 1080p
Weather Sealed: Yes

2. Canon EOS-1DX Mark II DSLR Camera

---

The Canon EOS-1DX Mark II DSLR Camera is an extraordinary camera.

For most photographers, there are very few downsides to this camera in terms of image quality and performance.

With a wide ISO range, a 14 fps shooting speed, and a smart & fast autofocus, the Canon EOS-1DX Mark II delivers incredibly precise photos that are sure to amaze.

Wildlife photographers and bird photographers will both benefit from the features of the Canon EOS-1DX Mark II, but be prepared for the sheer size of the camera. It’s difficult to have a camera that performs as well as this one in a compact body.

Best for: Professional Grade Wildlife and Bird Photography
Matching wildlife lens: Canon EF 100-400mm Lens

---

Sensor: 20.2 MP Full-Frame Sensor
Frames per second: 14 fps
AF points: 61-point AF system
ISO range: 100-51,200
Weight: 3 lbs (Body Only)
Video: Full HD 1080p
Weather Sealed: Yes

3. Sony Alpha a7 III Mirrorless Digital Camera

---

The Sony Alpha a7III is a formidable camera for its size and price point.

Its mirrorless design allows it to be a compact full-frame camera, excellent for photographers looking to reduce weight without diminishing photo quality.

Photographers will be impressed with the Sony specific InBody Steadyshot for improved image stabilization and a crystal clear EVF that tracks like an SLR camera.

The Sony Alpha a7II is a great camera for wildlife photographers interested in shooting larger animals.

Pro bird photographers may find the AF a bit slow when it comes to shooting birds in flight, but overall the Sony Alpha a7II is an exceptional camera.

Best for: Wildlife Photographers Who Like to Travel Light
Matching wildlife lens: Sony FE 70-300mm Lens

---

Sensor: 24.2 MP Full-Frame Sensor
Frames per second: 10 fps
AF points: Fast Hybrid AF with 117 Phase-Detection Points and 25 Contrast-Detection Points
ISO range: 100-51,200
Weight: 31.25 oz (Body Only)
Video: Full HD 1080p
Weather Sealed: Not advertised

4. Nikon D750 FX-format Digital SLR Camera

---

The next option is often seen in wildlife camera reviews. The Nikon D750 FX-format Digital SLR Camera offers a range of high-quality and professional features, all at a balanced price point.

While it may be a little too expensive for the beginners, it offers a great option for intermediate photographers.

The Nikon D750 FX-format Digital SLR Camera is compatible with various Nikon lenses, including wide angle options that make wildlife photography much easier.

While not the best point-and-shoot camera for wildlife photography, the camera does make it easier to take great shots in the outdoors.

This Nikon wildlife camera features a 24.3MP sensor. The CMOS sensor is accompanied by an EXPEED 4 image processor. This image processor helps to provide a clearer photo that is free of blur.

The device also has a built-in image stabilization system. Wireless communication also makes it easier to transfer photos.

Matching wildlife lens: Sigma 150-600mm Zoom Lens

---

Type: DSLR
Sensor: CMOS
Frames per second: 24 to 65fps
ISO range: Auto
Weight: 1.65 lbs
Video: Yes
Weather-Sealed: Yes

5. Canon EOS 7D Mark II DSLR Camera

---

The Canon EOS 7D is a great step-up for hobbyists looking to take their wildlife photography more seriously. This camera offers users a range of control options and internal functions that rival cameras twice the price.

The Canon EOS 7D Mark II has an instinctive ISO that rarely leaves photos grainy. The autofocus system is also exceptional, making it easy to track movement.

Perhaps the best thing about this camera for wildlife photographers is the shooting speed of 10 fps. Paired with this camera’s ISO and AF system, wildlife photographers are sure to capture incredible action shots even in low-light settings.

Best for: Semi-pro Camera Great for Wildlife Photography and Bird Photography
Matching wildlife lens: Canon EF 100-400mm Lens

---

Sensor: 20.2 MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
Frames per second: 10 fps
AF points: 65-point All Cross-Type AF System
ISO range: 100-16,000
Weight: 1.8 lbs (Body Only)
Video: Full HD 1080p
Weather Sealed: Yes

6. Nikon D500 DX-Format DSLR Wildlife Camera

---

The Nikon D500 is a great camera for serious bird and wildlife photographers. This camera has an expansive 153-point AF system that easily tracks objects in motion.

The wide ISO range also performs very well, allowing the camera to take excellent photos in low light. Although the Nikon D500 is not a full-frame camera, its APS-C sensor is still a top performer.

Paired with a quality lens, this camera is great at taking photos of wildlife at a distance. Bird and wildlife photographers will not be disappointed by the images the Nikon D500 produces.

Best for: Semi-Pro Wildlife and Bird Photographers Looking for 4K Video as well
Matching wildlife lens: Nikon AF-S FX Nikkor 200-500mm Lens

---

Sensor: 20.9 MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
Frames per second: 10 fps
AF points: 153-point AF System
ISO range: 100-51,200
Weight: 1.7 lbs (Body Only)
Video: 4K Ultra HD 2160p
Weather Sealed: Yes, and dust & water-drop resistant

7. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Full Frame DSLR Camera

---

If you want budget professional camera for wildlife photography, then the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Full Frame DSLR Camera is an option to consider.

The product is great for pro photography. It is also compatible with different lenses.

This is also the best Canon camera for wildlife photography if you prefer a full frame option with a powerful CMOS sensor.

The camera features a 30.4MP sensor and a 1x multiplier optical zoom function.

It also has the capability to record video content in 4K UHD resolution. The camera uses 4K Motion JPEG video technology.

The camera comes with built-in Wi-Fi technology. This helps to make wireless communication easier – making it faster to share photos with other devices without the need for wires.

A built-in LCD display makes it easier to view your shots and organize them with ease.

Matching wildlife lens: Canon 24-105mm Lens

---

Type: Full frame
Sensor: CMOS
Frames per second: 7pfs to 60fps
ISO range: 100 – 32000
Weight:  1.76 lbs
Video: Yes
Weather-Sealed: Yes

8. Nikon D850 FX-format Digital SLR Camera

---

The Nikon D850 FX-format Digital SLR Camera is an excellent wildlife photography camera for professional photographers.

It features wide compatibility with several lens types. It offers a large range of professional features. This helps you take better shots – but it also comes at a higher price tag.

If you need the best wildlife camera, then you will also appreciate the 45.7MP sensor. The camera uses a BSI full-frame sensor.

This will essentially help to provide you with better clarity when you take shots. The FX-format mount also helps you explore different zoom lenses, wide-angle lenses, and other options.

In addition to taking great still photos, the Nikon D850 FX-format Digital SLR Camera also offers video recording capabilities.

You can take videos up to 8K6 resolution. This provides you a camera that can be used for more than just taking shots to print out.

Matching wildlife lens: Nikon 200-500mm ED VR Lens

---

Type: DSLR
Sensor: BSI
Frames per second: Up to 120fps
Weight: 2.02 lbs
Video: Yes
Weather-Sealed: Yes

9. Canon EOS R Full Frame Mirrorless Camera

---

If you want a wildlife video camera then the Canon EOS R Full Frame Mirrorless Camera is an option you want to look at too.

The price tag is in line with other intermediate cameras. This is also a full frame mirrorless camera. It provides better overall quality in terms of photo clarity and resolution.

The camera features an autofocus system with 5,655 different points. It also provides a dual pixel CMOS sensor.

The 4K video recording capability of the camera makes it easier to get your hands on a device that is able to give you the ability to record vlogging videos at a higher resolution.

The Canon EOS R Full Frame Mirrorless Camera offers a 30.3MP sensor. You can also choose to buy the camera with an included lens, including the Canon 24-240mm lens.

Matching wildlife lens: Canon 24-240mm lens

---

Type: Full frame
Sensor: CMOS
AF points: 5,655
Weight: 1.46 lbs
Video: Yes
Weather-Sealed: No

10. Nikon Coolpix P1000 16.7 Digital Camera

---

The Nikon COOLPIX P1000 16.7 Digital Camera is another top option when looking at the best wildlife photography cameras.

The camera comes with a 16.7MP sensor, which gives you adequate quality for most standard print sizes.

Something that makes the camera unique is the fact that it comes with a built-in lens. This is a 24-300mm equivalent lens.

It provides a great variety in the settings you can choose from. The variety gives you an opportunity to explore different angles, and focal length ranges to help you get a great shot.

This is one of the best Nikon cameras for wildlife photography if you prefer the brand. It also comes with an HDMI output port.

With the port, it is really easy to output photos and videos to a television or projector. You can also use the camera to record video content in up to 4K resolution.

Matching wildlife lens: Comes with a lens

---

Type: Point and shoot
Sensor: APS-C
Frames per second: 7fps
Weight: 3.12 lbs
Video: 4k Ultra HD 2160p

11. Fujifilm X-T30 Mirrorless Digital Camera

---

The Fujifilm X-T30 Mirrorless Digital Camera offers exceptional quality at a good price tag.

It is a great night camera wildlife photographers will enjoy, due to the special APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor that is used.

This sensor is able to reduce flare in lighted environments, while also providing better performance when shooting wildlife at night.

If you want one of the best digital cameras for wildlife photography, you already know how important video capabilities are. Luckily, the Fujifilm X-T30 Mirrorless Digital Camera will not disappoint you here either. It features full 4k video recording capabilities at 30fps, or 1080p at 120fps.

The Fujifilm X-T30 Mirrorless Digital Camera is compatible with a wide range of lenses – which gives you greater possibilities to explore with your photography sessions.

Many outdoor photography guide reviews will even offer this camera as a recommendation. It also comes with built-in face and eye detection.

Matching wildlife lens: Fujinon XF23mmF2 R WR Lens

---

Type: Mirrorless Camera
Sensor: APS-C
Frames per second: 30fps to 120fps
Weight: 2.2 lbs
Video: 1080p / 4K

12. Canon EOS 90D APS-C Digital SLR Camera

---

The Canon EOS 90D APS-C Digital SLR Camera is a great option when looking at the best camera for safari and other outdoor trips.

The camera features a 32.5MP CMOS APS-C sensor, allowing for high-quality and crystal clear photos.

It is also a beginner-friendly camera that makes taking great shots easier.

The video functionality gives it a place alongside the best wildlife video cameras too. The camera is able to capture video content in either 1080p or 4K quality. It also features a continuous shooting mode, allowing multiple shots to be taken after each other.

While not as cheap as some of the alternatives, the higher megapixel rating of the sensor does allow you to get bigger prints from your session, without adversely affecting image quality.

This is a DSLR camera. It has a built-in autofocus system, which helps to focus your image on several detectable subjects in the shot.

Matching wildlife lens: Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Standard Zoom Lens

---

Type: DSLR
Sensor: CMOS APS-C
Frames per second: 10fps
AF points: 27
Weight: 1.32 lbs
Video: Yes

Best Types of Cameras for Wildlife

Wildlife photographers require a little more out of their cameras. The camera you choose should be able to perform well in an array of lighting conditions, be able to capture motion easily, and also be able to survive the elements. 

The most popular cameras for wildlife photography include: point-and-shoot, DSLR, and mirrorless cameras. Below is a breakdown of what each type offers.

Point-and-Shoot camera

A point-and-shoot camera with a proper zoom can be a great tool for taking wildlife photos.

• Point-and-shoot cameras are typically easy to use and offer adequate resolution.
• Many amateur photographers may find a point-and-shoot camera sufficient to meet their needs.
• Photographers looking for a bit more control with their camera settings may want to try either a DSLR or mirrorless camera.

DSLR

A DSLR (Digital Single-Lens Reflex) camera will allow users more opportunities to control the shot.

• DSLR cameras have interchangeable lenses and a viewfinder that is able to see exactly what the lens sees. The single-lens reflex allows you to track images in real-time.
• This is an important aspect of wildlife photography given that the movement of wildlife can be rapid.
• The body of DSLR cameras are bulkier than other options, but overall the performance of a DSLR camera is hard to beat.

Mirrorless camera

Mirrorless cameras do not reflect the image from the lens into the viewfinder.

• Instead, the images are sent directly from the lens to the image sensor and the camera uses an electronic viewfinder (EVF) to project the image into the photographer’s eye.
• Mirrorless cameras are often lighter and tend to perform just as well as DSLR cameras. You still have the option to change lenses, but the weight of your camera body will be reduced.
• Mirrorless cameras are a great option for wildlife photographers who travel and are hoping to reduce the overall weight of their camera setup.

Autofocus is The King

An excellent autofocus feature is essential for wildlife photography. Landscape and portrait photographers have the luxury to play around with their camera settings and to manually focus their lenses to create great shots. Wildlife photographers must capture images whenever the moment arises.

Finding a good autofocus is a bit of a challenge. AF systems aren’t necessarily a mechanical process, such as shutter speed. There’s a lot of computing that goes on. You’ll want to find a camera that has the computing power to process the AF system in milliseconds, not only allowing for a fast shutter speed but also detecting the intended subject within your viewfinder.

Here’s a few key aspects of autofocus that you should consider.

Multiple Autofocus Points

The more AF points a camera has the more information the camera has to detect the object in view. Multiple AF points is also useful if you are manually changing the focal point of the frame to be a point other than the center.

Phase-Detection vs. Contrast-Detection

Phase-detection AF is generally better for wildlife photography. This is because phase-detection AF is faster and is better at tracking objects. Contrast-detection AF can be more precise but the system has to take time to adjust, making it difficult to take pictures of moving wildlife.

Lens with a Wide Aperture

Lens with a Wide Aperture – Choosing a lens with a wide aperture will also help improve the speed of your camera’s AF system. A lens that accommodates an aperture of f/2.8 will be faster than one that has a higher f-stop number.

Shooting Speed is The Queen

Shooting speed refers to a camera’s frame rate. This number is represented as fps (frames per second). When capturing images of wildlife in motion it is often advantageous to use continuous shooting mode to take a burst of photos. 

A camera with a frame rate of 5 fps is fairly fast, but if you are looking to capture those intense moments in nature–such as birds flying, bull elk fighting, or whales breaching the surface–a camera with 10fps or more will ensure that you capture the right image.

Shutter speed is another camera component that is vital for wildlife photography. Particularly for motion shots, you’ll want a camera with a fast shutter speed to capture the images of the animals you see. Now a lot goes into capturing clear images of wildlife. You have to consider the lighting, distance, ISO, as well as the best time to click and capture the object in your viewfinder.

To start though, here are some suggestions on shutter speeds:

• 1/50-1/400: Wildlife that is stationary or with slight movement.
• 1/400-1/1,000: Wildlife that is moving steadily.
• 1/1,000-Up: Rapid movement such as birds in flight.

The Wildlife Camera Price Timeline

0-$500: Most of the cameras in this price range will be point-and-shoot, but there are a few DSLR and mirrorless options under $500. Typically, at this price point, camera sensors are quite small which greatly reduces image quality. Also, the standard lenses that come with cameras in this price range are limited so it may be difficult to capture close-ups of wildlife. A camera in this range may be best for taking photos at the zoo.

$500-1,000: Cameras between $500-1,000 are great options for amateur wildlife photographers. Cameras in this range will provide more opportunity for control, allowing users opportunities to change lenses, manually adjust settings, and manually focus the lens. Image quality in this range will be decent, but may still not meet professional standards.

$1,000-2,500: Cameras above $1,000 will come with an array of features and settings that allow photographers ample opportunities to take more control over their photos. Cameras in this range will almost exclusively be either DSLR or mirrorless. Features will vary from one camera to the other, but overall you’ll see the improved performance (AF, Shutter Speed, ISO) and also improved image quality.

$2,500-Higher: For professional-grade photos, you’ll have to pay for a high-end camera and a high-end lens. This could easily put your camera setup cost over $5,000. For most amateur photographers the nuances of these higher-priced cameras are too fine to justify the expense. But if you’re planning on making money off your photos or having your photos enlarged (either digitally or in print), the image quality of more expensive cameras is hard to replicate.

RELATED: Best Superzoom Cameras for Birding (Beginners’ guide)

How to Choose the Right Wildlife Camera?

Cameras are complicated machines. So what exactly should you be looking for in a camera? What works for portraits and landscape photographers, may not be what’s best for wildlife photographers. If your passion is capturing images of wildlife, then here’s what you should look for in a camera.

Sensor size

For superb image quality and better low-light performance, cameras with a full-frame sensor are the obvious choice. But a smaller crop sensor, such as APS-C, can also take great photos. In fact, APS-C sensors sometimes have an advantage when it comes to taking pictures of subjects in the distance. For wildlife photographers, it is a matter of preference when it comes to which sensor to choose.

Autofocus

Excellent autofocus and image tracking is a must for wildlife photography. Look for a camera that features phase-detection AF with a number of AF points. You want your camera to be able to gather the necessary information from the image in view to quickly focus on the intended subject and track its movements. Look for cameras with at least 50 AF points.

Shooting speed (FPS)

Capturing stellar shots of wildlife requires speed. Having a camera that is intuitively fast will help you snag those amazing moments of wildlife in action. A frame rate of 5 fps is a great start, but if you plan on taking photos of rapidly moving wildlife go for cameras that feature a frame rate of 10 fps or more.

FAQ

What is the best camera for wildlife photography?

The best camera for wildlife photography, when looking at specifications, lens compatibility, and pricing, is the Nikon D850 FX-format Digital SLR Camera. 

Which is the best bridge camera for wildlife photography?

The best bridge camera for wildlife that you can get your hands on at the moment would definitely be the Nikon COOLPIX P1000 – it even comes at a great price tag. 

Which Sony camera is best for wildlife photography?

If you want a good digital camera for wildlife photography and you are a fan of Sony’s products, then take a look at the Sony Alpha A7II.

How many megapixels do I need for wildlife photography?

There is no specific minimum megapixel for a wildlife camera. The best cameras for wildlife photography will provide at least a 10MP sensor – but for larger prints, try to get at least a 24MP camera. 

Is a 200mm lens enough for wildlife?

When looking at the best camera for animal photography, most professionals do agree that 200mm is enough to capture wildlife at a great angle. 

How do you photography wildlife like a pro?

Start with the best camera for nature and wildlife photography. Add a good lens with image stabilization. The lens should also not make a noise when focusing. 

What is the best camera for a beginner wildlife photographer?

The best camera for wildlife photography beginner classes and sessions is the Canon 90D. The Nikon D750 is a good alternative. 

Is Canon 90d good for wildlife photography?

The Canon 90D is a good option if you are still a beginner and want to focus primarily on wildlife. It is also good for other types of photography sessions.