Taking a trip in our Wayback machine, we came across our post for the best cameras for designers and believed it was time for an update. We wanted to present you with the best camera for creatives in 2020 in case you were looking to upgrade or even start a new side business.
To get things started, we wanted to provide you with a handy shopping list for you to use before you buy your next camera.
So let’s start there!
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What to look for when buying your next camera
- Sensor size
Exposure flexibility and picture quality are highly influenced by the sensor within the camera along with the size of each light-capturing photosite on it. More light can be captured and recorded the larger the surface area of the photosite is. However, having the biggest sensor isn’t always the best thing. The larger the sensor is then the camera will likely be larger, heavier, and more expensive.
- Resolution
In the past, most of the marketing energy when it came to cameras were focused on the number of megapixels the camera came with. These days, the megapixel count isn’t as important as it once was because cameras come with between 20 and 30 megapixels. This tends to be enough for most photographers but you should be careful when it comes to cameras with ultra-high resolution. Unless you need it, these types of photos take time to process and can be very data-heavy.
- Brand Loyalty
If you’re buying a camera to upgrade to something better, it makes perfect sense to look for a camera that is the same brand as what you had previously. However, it can be the wrong choice because some manufacturers will have two separate camera lines, one for full-frame sensors and one for cropped sensor models. So unless you’re going with the same type of camera, you may want to consider a different brand.
- Video
The availability of recording in 4K is everywhere and not something you should actively look for unless you’re shooting a lot of movies or shooting professional videos. Most cameras will record 4K clips at 25 fps although there are faster frame rates out there for Full HD recording. If you shoot a lot of videos, check out the resolutions, formats and frame rates that are available but be prepared to pay more. If you choose a camera that supports recording formats that professionals use such as CinemaDNG, you should be prepared to pay a premium price.
- Lenses
While many cameras are sold with a kit lens, the downside of kit lenses is that they tend to use more plastic in their lens than glass. This can lead to a slower lens. Polycarbonate lenses are very strong and high-quality. Metal mounts are also much more durable and reliable than plastic mounts. You want to try and build a collection of lenses for every type of photo you might take. That way, you’re never at a loss when it comes to catching that perfect shot.
Best Cameras for Photographers, Designers & Creatives in 2020
- Nikon Z6 – $1796
- Fujifilm X-T30 – $799
- Sony A7 III – $1798
- Nikon D850 – $2996
- Panasonic Lumix G95 / G90 – $1197
- Nikon Z50 – $856
- Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III– $999
- Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 250D – $549
- Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 – $697
- Olympus Tough TG-6 – $379
Best Cameras for Designers 2020 Compared
Nikon Z6
The best camera overall
Type: Mirrorless | Sensor size: Full-frame CMOS | Resolution: 24.5MP | Lens: Nikon Z mount | Viewfinder: EVF | Screen type: 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen, 2,100,000 dots | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 12fps | Movies: 4K
A fantastic all-around camera with incredible handling, there is no other camera out there currently that can beat the versatility, affordability, and usability when it comes to the Z6 from Nikon. Combining excellent stills and 4K video quality with all of the other features that are essential to a full-frame mirrorless camera. The Z6 also comes with a responsive, tilting touchscreen. All of this combined complete with its lightweight and compact body makes this the best camera overall on our list.
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- Large, full frame Z mount for Revolutionary optical performance
- Nikon-designed 24. 5MP backside illuminated image sensor
- 273-Point on-sensor Phase detect AF system
- Up to 12 fps; 4K Ultra-HD video; 6K time-lapse; 1080P/120Fps slow motion
- Compatible with NIKKOR Z lenses, over 360 F-mount NIKKOR lenses
Fujifilm X-T30
Retro look with modern tech
Sensor size: APS-C | Resolution: 26.1MP | Viewfinder: 2,360K dots | Monitor: 3.0-inch tilt-angle touchscreen, 1,040K dots | Autofocus: 425-point AF | Maximum continuous shooting rate: 8fps | Movies: 4K at 30p
The X-T30 is a technological marvel. By packing a ton of tech into a small and cheaper digital camera, Fujifilm has made the X-T30 one camera that’s easy to recommend. With a resolution of 26.1 megapixels, excellent 4K video recording, and a hybrid AF system help the camera offer a more polished presentation to a customer over other models in their stable. Improvements to the overall speed and face/eye detection just add to the value of this camera. While many might point out the small viewfinder magnification, we feel like that’s not enough to keep it from having a place on our list.
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- Advanced Image Sensor Technology: The 26.1MP BSI APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4 image sensor and X-Processor 4 quad-core CPU combination provide accurate AF and Face Detection for moving subjects when capturing...
- Accurate Auto-Focus Tracking and Face Detection: he new X-Processor 4 Quad Core-CPU offers fast and accurate face-detection for moving people. Additionally, eye-detection AF now works in AF-C mode,...
- Superior Video and Image Effects: The X-T30 offers the ability to record 4K video at 30 frames per second or capture of 120 frames per second at 1080p to create super slow motion effects. Filmmakers...
- Intuitive Design with Comfortable Controls: Offers 3.0-inch touch LCD with 2-way tilting and improved touch screen to capture images efficiently in challenging situations. Provides advanced SR Auto...
- Next-Gen Wireless Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi? and Bluetooth V.4.2 offers digital communication with the free FUJIFILM Camera Remote app to wirelessly control the camera or share images to smart...
Sony A7 III
The Best Overall Camera runner-up
Sensor size: Full-frame | Resolution: 24.2MP | Viewfinder: 2,359K dots | Monitor: 3.0-inch tilt-angle touchscreen, 921K dots | Autofocus: 693-point AF | Maximum continuous shooting rate: 10fps | Movies: 4K at 30p
Now in its third iteration, the A7 line of cameras from Sony is finally starting to move things in the right direction by offering a great camera that stands out compared to many of its competitors in the full-frame mirrorless camera space. Along with a 10fps burst mode, the camera packs a 693-point hybrid AF system which is pretty strong considering the camera comes with two card slots meaning that you’re getting a great camera at an excellent value for the money you will spend on the camera.
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- Advanced 24.2MP BSI Full frame Image Sensor w/ 1.8X readout speed Advanced 24.2MP Back Illuminated 35 millimeter Full frame Image Sensor Sony test conditions. Compare to the 7 II
- 15 stop dynamic range, 14 bit uncompressed RAW, ISO 50 to 204,800. Compatible with Sony E mount lenses. Can be connected via Bluetooth with smartphones featuring (as of the date of release)- Android...
- Up to 10fps Silent or Mechanical Shutter with AE/AF tracking. Battery Life (Still Images): Approx. 610 shots (Viewfinder) / approx. 710 shots (LCD monitor), Battery Life (Movie, continuous recording):...
- 693 phase detection / 425 contrast AF points w/ 93 percent image coverage. Focus Sensor: Exmor R CMOS sensor
- In the box: Rechargeable Battery (NP FZ100), AC Adapter (AC UUD12), Shoulder strap, Body cap, Accessory shoe cap, Eyepiece cup, Micro USB cable.Metering Type:1200 zone evaluative metering
Nikon D850
The DSLR camera that delivers every time
Type: DSLR | Sensor size: Full-frame CMOS | Resolution: 45.4MP | Lens: Nikon F mount | Viewfinder: Optical | Screen type: 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen, 2,359,000 dots | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 7fps | Movies: 4K
In the current landscape, many of the cameras on top ten lists are all mirrorless, so you’d think that DSLR has had their day in the sun but the D850 from Nikon keeps reminding people how good these cameras can be. A 45MP resolution is perfect for those looking for high resolution as well as 4K video recording and a rugged case to protect it from the elements. The only factor that sets it apart from its mirrorless competition is battery life. At a whopping 1800 frames per charge, the last thing you should ever have to worry about is running out of juice.
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- Nikon designed back side illuminated (BSI) full frame image sensor with no optical low pass filter
- 45.7 megapixels of extraordinary resolution, outstanding dynamic range and virtually no risk of moiré
- Up to 9 fps1 continuous shooting at full resolution with full AF performance
- 8K6 and 4K time lapse movies with new levels of sharpness and detail; File system : DCF 2.0, Exif 2.31, PictBridge
- Tilting touchscreen, Focus Shift shooting mode, outstanding battery performance and much more; Total Pixels: 46.89 million
Panasonic Lumix G95 / G90
A great camera for vloggers
Type: Mirrorless | Sensor size: Micro Four Thirds | Resolution: 20.3MP | Lens: Micro Four Thirds | Screen type: 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen, 1,040,000 dots | Viewfinder: EVF | Maximum continuous shooting rate: 9fps/30fps | Movies: 4K
Many vloggers who are in the market for a new camera should consider the Lumix G95. A great option that’s as good shooting video as it is shooting stills. The G95 manages to fit a lot of features into its small design. Shooting video is a breeze with 4K resolution and frame rates of 24p, 25p, and 30p while you can record in FullHD up to 120fps in the cameras High-Speed Video mode. The camera includes a microphone and head-socket ports to help make video creation even easier.
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- Four-thirds sensor– 20. 3-Megapixel digital live MOS sensor without low-pass filter attains maximum performance (is 25600 Max sensitivity)
- Lumix g MFT camera lens – easy-to-use Lumix g 12-60mm 3. 5-5. 6 standard focal for Micro Four Thirds lens mount digital Mirrorless cameras
- 4K v-log L video – 4K 24/30P video capture Plus pre-installed v-log L offers exceptional flexibility in post-production, featuring log characteristics with 12 Stops of dynamic range
- 4: 2: 2 HDMI output – Real-time image output to an optional external monitor in 4: 2: 2/ 8-bit via an optional micro HDMI cable simultaneously while recording video
- Mic jack – 3. 5mm microphone jack supports external microphone use, such as an optional Panasonic external stereo/Shotgun microphone dmw-ms2
Nikon Z50
The perfect upgrade for former DSLR owners
Type: Mirrorless | Sensor size: APS-C | Resolution: 20.9MP | Lens: Z-mount | Screen type: 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen, 1,036,080 dots | Viewfinder: EVF | Maximum continuous shooting rate: 11fps | Movies: 4K
While the Z6 is the best camera on our list, its price might leave some with smaller budgets looking for another answer. Enter the Z50, which is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a high-quality, mid-range APS-C camera and is an even better option if you’re looking to change from DSLR to mirrorless. With its deep grip, the Z50 puts a priority on the handling of the camera. An excellent viewfinder and tilting touchscreen help you produce great photos which are especially helpful when you are taking general or even travel photos plus the autofocus system works extremely well on static subjects.
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- camera features a 20. 9 MP DX CMOS sensor and EXPEED 6 engine
- Durable construction and weather sealing
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for simple sharing of images
- Flip down LCD for self portrait mode. Lcd is touchscreen too.
- Mounting Type: Nikon
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
The Best All-around Camera
Type: Mirrorless | Sensor size: Four Thirds | Resolution: 20.4MP | Lens: Micro Four Thirds | Viewfinder: 2.36M-dot OLED EVF | Screen type: 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen, 1,040,000 dots | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 30fps | Movies: 4K
No matter how much money you spend on something, you might not ever get everything that you’re hoping for. This is certainly true when it comes to cameras, although the Mark III from Olympus certainly comes close. With a polycarbonate shell, the casing may feel like a step down from its predecessor but the Mark III us lighter and is amazing to handle. Not only does it have good looks, but the processor inside the camera is also powerful and the shooting modes and image stabilization will help any skill level. The combination of style, speed, and versatility make it one of the best all-around cameras available.
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- 20MP live MOS sensor
- Portable, weather sealed design
- 121-Point all-cross-type on-chip Phase detection AF
- Compact, In-body 5-axis image stabilization (up to approx. 5. 5 EV steps of compensation)
- 50MP tripod High-Res shot
Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 250D
The Best Beginners DSLR
Type: DSLR | Sensor: APS-C CMOS | Resolution: 24.2MP | Lens mount: Canon EF | Viewfinder: Optical | Screen type: 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen, 1,040,000 dots | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 5fps | Movies: 4K
One of the best DSLRs for beginners, the EOS 250D from Canon is the world’s smallest DSLR with a fully articulating screen which is great news for vloggers. With 4K recording and a new processor inside the camera as new features, the 24.2MP sensor will give your photos that extra something and while you’re shooting live view and videos, the fluid AF system will come into play. With an easy-to-understand interface and affordable pricing, the EOS 205D is an amazing first choice for a DLSR.
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- Lightest, smallest EOS DSLR camera
- High image quality with 24. 1 Megapixel CMOS (APS C) sensor
- Fast and accurate dual Pixel CMOS AF with eye detection AF
- 4K video, 4K time lapse movie
- Vary angle Touchscreen, 3. 0 Inch LCD, built in Wi Fi and Bluetooth technology with auto image transfer, DIGIC 8 Image processor, is 100 25600, optical Viewfinder with a 9 point AF system
Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200
The Perfect Travel Camera
Type: Travel compact | Sensor: 1-inch type CMOS | Resolution: 20.1MP | Lens: 24-360mm, f/3.3-6.4 | Viewfinder: EVF | Screen type: 3.0-inch touchscreen, 1,240,000 dots | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 10fps | Movies: 4K
Panasonic is known for its line for travel-friendly compact cameras and that recognition continues with the ZS200. Affordably packaging a large 1-inch sized sensor along with 15x optical zoom, the camera has a built-in electronic viewfinder that can help you see in bright conditions if the touch-sensitive screen is tough to see. While there are better options out there, for anyone who doesn’t have a huge budget, the ZS200 is a great option for those looking for a great travel camera
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- [Larger 1 Inch Sensor] 20.1 Megapixels large sensor for brighter and more colorful photos (12800 Max ISO).
- [LEICA DC 15x Lens] Leading class optical zoom performance with a bright F3.3 ? 6.4 aperture for soft defocus background effects. (24-360mm, 5 Axis Hybrid O.I.S.+)
- [Creative Control] Scene modes, filter modes, adds creativity while traditional aperture and shutter priority modes allow for background defocus or eliminate sports motion blur.
- [4K Features] 4K Video 30p, 4K PHOTO, and 4K Live Crop turn 4K frame capture into photography. Focusing Area - Normal: Wide 50 cm - infinity / Tele 100 cm - infinity. Focusing Area - AF Macro / MF /...
- [Electronic Viewfinder] plus a touch-enabled LCD for greater control and easier image viewing.
Olympus Tough TG-6
A tough camera with high-end features
Type: Compact | Sensor: 1/2.3-inch | Resolution: 12MP | Lens: 25-100mm f/2-4.9 | Viewfinder: N/A | Monitor: 3.0-inch screen, 1,040,000 dots | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 20fps | Movies: 4K |
Depending on what you do for your business that may mean taking photos in some unique environments. When these occur, using a smartphone is likely not going to end well. The Tough TG-6 from Olympus is a great choice. Waterproof to 45 feet, crushproof to weights of 100kg and drop-proof from heights of 7 feet, the TG-6 is one tough little camera. Able to shoot 4K video at 30p or high-speed at 120p in FullHD. While intended for underwater photography, the design is still great for those working on the land as well.
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- Waterproof (50 feet / 15 meter ), dust proof, shockproof (7 feet / 2; 1 meter), crush proof (100kgf), freeze proof (14 degree Fahrenheit / 10 degree Celsius ), anti fog
- High resolution F2.0 lens, maximum 8x zoom, true pic VIII, back illuminated CMOS Image Sensor
- Variable macro system comprised of 4 macro shooting modes, magnified shooting up to 1centimeter from the end of the lens
- 5 underwater shooting modes including underwater microscope, 3 underwater white balance modes
- 4K movie and full HD 120 fps high speed movies can be recorded. Battery Life - Approx. 340 Images (using Toshiba SDHC UHS-I Card Exceria with IS ON, based on CIPA test standards). Approx. 50 minutes...
Best Cameras for Creatives in 2020
When you’re on the hunt for a new camera, it can be tough to know which ones will be able to take care of the needs you may have. Hopefully, with our list of the Best Cameras for Creatives in 2020, we’ve given you some options you can seriously consider.
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