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The best cameras for wedding photography have a distinct set of characteristics. First and foremost, they want quick and precise focusing, as well as the ability to shoot in low-light conditions, twin memory card slots, a sturdy sensor for the clearest photographs, and lastly, a quiet shooting mode.

In today's mirrorless world, it's becoming easier to find all of these characteristics in all price ranges. When it comes to the best cameras for wedding photography, you still have to be extremely picky, but the days of needing to purchase one of the pricey professional cameras are long gone. Indeed, sometimes buying intelligently is more important than shopping for features; you may be shocked to see a Micro Four Thirds camera on our list for a particular reason.

Whether you're just getting started or seeking to improve your existing setup, our selection of the best cameras for wedding photography includes APS-C and full-frame cameras that we think are ideal for the task. (In reality, entry-level cameras aren't actually suited for shooting weddings since they lack the correct mix of crucial functions.)

We divided the tutorial into three sections: getting started, upgrading, and professional. If you earn the most of your money from wedding photography, you'll probably want to start at the pro end with cameras, but it's worth scanning the whole list.

BEST CAMERA FOR WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY: TOP PICKS

My overall favorite here is the Canon EOS R5, which has practically everything you could want, including 8K video, which comes with a brilliant hack: you may shoot video of critical events, from which you can extract crystal-clear 35MP still photographs. It's the best of both worlds!

This one will put the cat among the pigeons, but my second pick is the OM System OM-1, which is, indeed, a Micro Four Thirds camera. You've probably heard a lot of bias and people arguing that they aren't professional cameras, particularly because they don't have a very narrow depth of focus. But that seeming disadvantage is really a major advantage in this case; have you ever photographed a wedding in a church or anywhere with poor lighting? Have you ever had to open your aperture so wide that just one thing is in focus? When shooting with the OM-1, you get double the depth of field!

And, while I understand that some people prefer DSLRs, my third choice is the magnificent Nikon D850, which is still the go-to camera for many professional wedding photographers and weekend warriors alike. Like every DSLR, it lacks a quiet shooting mode (yes, it has one, but it's impossible for the mirror to be silent), but it's a fantastic tool otherwise.

The best wedding photography cameras in 2024

Why can you rely on Digital Camera World? Our experienced reviewers spend hours evaluating and comparing goods and services, so you can find the best option for you. Discover how we test.

1. Canon EOS R10 camera

The best wedding photography camera for the money

SPECIFICATIONS

Model: Mirrorless
APS-C sensor
24.2 Megapixels
Articulating touchscreen with 1.04m dots
2.36m dot, 120fps viewfinder
Canon RF lens
Continuous shooting speed: 25 frames per second (with electronic shutter).
4K video resolution is the highest possible.
Intermediate/enthusiast user level

cons

Professional features
4K-resolution video

pros

There is just one card slot.
There is no in-body stability.

The Canon EOS R10 is almost too wonderful to be true, but Canon isn't playing games! With a 24.2MP APS-C sensor, 4K resolution, and a burst rate of up to 23fps, it's ideal for wedding photography. It has the same lightning-fast and hyper-accurate Dual Pixel CMOS AF II as Canon's professional-grade cameras like the R3 and R5, which is astounding given the body costs less than $1,000.

It's also exceptionally lightweight, weighing just 429g, making it an excellent option for wedding photographers who need to shoot for 8 hours or more. The main disadvantage here, like with the X-S10 below, is that it only has one memory card slot. Personally, I believe that its other features compensate for it, but for other individuals, not having that piece of mind backup is a deal-breaker; if this is the case, go directly to the Z5.

2. X-S10 from Fujifilm

The best entry-level camera for wedding photography with stabilization

SPECIFICATIONS

Model: Mirrorless
APS-C sensor
26.1 Megapixels
Fujifilm X-mount lens mount
3-inch vari-angle touchscreen with 1,040,000 dots
Viewfinder type: electronic
Maximum burst speed: 20 frames per second.
4K video resolution is the highest possible.
465g total weight

cons

Image stabilization inside the body
Complete phase-detection AF coverage

pros

There is just one card slot.
For video, IBIS is less effective.

The X-S10 is a departure for Fujifilm. The design is the most noticeable difference between this camera and the similarly priced Fujifilm X-T30. For starters, the handgrip is more obvious than on earlier X Series cameras, and the top plate has been simplified with a less frightening collection of buttons. New users will undoubtedly find this more straightforward, but experienced users will still appreciate the body-mounted controls and personalization.

The build quality is likewise superb, and the vari-angle display, which can fold in on itself, is a lovely addition. The X-S10 employs Fujifilm's outstanding 26MP sensor, which produces photographs with superb detail and beautiful color. Then there's the sophisticated 425-point system and superb 6-stop in-body image stabilization technology—and, most crucially, the family of film simulations, which allow you to be highly creative in camera. Again, I'm willing to take risks, but the single memory card may be a deal-breaker for you.

3. A Nikon Z5 camera

The best full-frame camera on a budget for wedding photos

SPECIFICATIONS

Model: Mirrorless
Full-frame CMOS sensor
24.3 Megapixels
Nikon Z-mount lens
3.2-inch tilting touchscreen with 1,040k dots
Continuous shooting speed: 4.5 frames per second
EVF with 3,690k dots, 100% coverage, and 0.8x magnification.
The maximum video resolution is 4K UHD at 30p.
Enthusiast is the highest degree of user.

cons

Excellent value for a full-frame camera.
There are two card slots.

pros

Only 4.5 frames per second burst
4K video crop

Think again if you thought your first camera for wedding photography had to have an APS-C sensor! Nikon's entry-level full-frame DSLR offers excellent value. It offers a continuous shooting speed of 4.5 fps, which isn't the quickest, but it'll do for most wedding circumstances. It includes a 24.3 MP CMOS sensor that can record not just gorgeous, color-accurate photographs but also 4K video with full-frame quality and dramatic depth of field.

The Z5 boasts twin UHS-II slots, so in the event of a card failure, your photographs may be securely backed up on the second. The 273-point hybrid autofocus system is quick and precise, and features like eye AF ensure that your portraits are always in focus. It's lightweight, weather-sealed, features USB-C charging capabilities, and has an ISO range of 100–51,200, so your photographs will still appear clean even at higher sensitivities. With the Nikon FTZ adapter, you may now utilize the vast array of current (and less expensive) Nikon F DSLR mount lenses.

4. The Canon EOS 90D

The top high-resolution APS-C DSLR for wedding photos

SPECIFICATIONS

Model: DSLR
APS-C sensor
32.5 Megapixels
Canon EF-mount lens
3-inch fully articulating touchscreen with 1,040,000 dots
Viewfinder Type: Optical
10 frames per second is the maximum burst speed.
4K video resolution is the highest possible.
701g total weight

cons

Touchscreen interface that has been polished
4K uncropped video

pros

Buffer capacity is limited.
There is just one card slot.

The EOS 90D is at the top of Canon's APS-C enthusiast DSLR lineup, with a 32.5MP sensor and one of the highest resolutions of any APS-C camera. That's one of my favorite camera features, but it's just a tiny portion of the narrative. There's a vari-angle touchscreen, Canon's powerful Dual Pixel AF, and the ergonomics are superb, with an AF joystick and a comfortable handgrip that's ideal for long-haul photography.

The 90D is likewise weatherproof and made of an aluminum alloy and polycarbonate resin (with glass fiber). However, the buffer might be improved since this is a body with just one card slot. However, for those searching for their first wedding camera, this is a really good alternative.

For additional information, see our complete Canon EOS 90D review.

5. Nikon D780 camera

Overall, it is the best entry-level DSLR for wedding photography.

SPECIFICATIONS

Model: DSLR
Full-frame sensor
24.4 Megapixels
3.2-inch tilting screen with 2,359k dots
Pentaprism optical viewfinder
7/12 fps continuous shooting speed
The maximum video resolution is 4K UHD.
Enthusiast/professional user level

cons

Excellent maneuverability
AF in real time.
4K uncropped video

pros

There are two AF systems to learn.
Manual live view switch
While new, it is expensive.

The Nikon D780 incorporates the Nikon Z6's on-sensor phase detection autofocus, resulting in a DSLR with the live view autofocus speed of mirrorless cameras—fantastic! The D780 is essentially an updated, turbocharged version of the still-popular Nikon D750 full-frame DSLR.

The D780 not only has improved live view AF but also a high-resolution tilting touchscreen display, 4K UHD video, two UHS-II memory card slots, and continuous shooting rates of up to 12 fps in live view mode. When you combine it with its robust design and pleasant grip, you have an instant classic.

UPGRADING THE BEST CAMERAS FOR WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

6. X-T4 from Fujifilm

The greatest APS-C camera for wedding photography overall

SPECIFICATIONS

Model: Mirrorless
APS-C sensor
26.1 Megapixels
Fujifilm X-mount lens mount
3-inch vari-angle touchscreen with 1,620,000 dots
Viewfinder type: electronic
Maximum burst speed: 20 frames per second.
4K video resolution is the highest possible.
607g total weight

cons

In-body stabilization at 6.5 stops
Controls and layout are traditional.

pros

Options for complex burst and video frame rate
There are no sensor advancements over the X-T3.

As the name implies, Fujifilm's flagship X-mount mirrorless camera is now in its fourth incarnation, and the result is an impressively sophisticated and competent camera. It may not have a full-frame sensor like some competitors, but the 26-megapixel APS-C sensor delivers shots with rich colors and attractive detail. Fujifilm has also built a fantastic lens lineup for their X-Series camera, with some extremely appealing alternatives for wedding photographers.

Aside from that, pretty much everything is checked, including in-body stabilization, a vari-angle touchscreen display, and a respectable battery life. There's also a sophisticated 425-point AF system and cutting-edge 4K video capabilities. Finally, some may be turned off by the plethora of body-mounted controls, but once you've got everything dialed in, it's a really straightforward and intuitive camera to shoot with.

With the arrival of the Fujifilm X-T5, the price of the X-T4 has dropped significantly. If you need additional resolution, the X-T5 may be a superior choice, but in terms of features and pricing, we believe the X-T4 is the better choice.

7. Canon EOS R6 Mark II camera

This is this category's finest all-around camera for wedding photography.

SPECIFICATIONS

Model: Mirrorless
Full-frame sensor
20.1 Megapixels
Canon RF lens mounting
3-inch fully articulating touchscreen with 1,620,000 dots
Viewfinder type: electronic
Maximum burst speed: 20 frames per second.
4K video resolution is the highest possible.
598g total weight

cons

Burst shooting at 40 frames per second
Excellent stability
6K footage that has been oversampled

pros

Should it support CFexpress cards?
4K recording limitations

What did Canon leave out of this camera? It includes oversampled 6K video, a shooting speed of 40 fps that rivals the EOS R3, the greatest full-frame stabilization in the market, and astonishing brand-new AI focusing settings. This is without a doubt the greatest camera available in this price range right now. It is even closing in on its larger brother, the Canon EOS R5.

In reality, only its lower megapixel count and slower SD cards keep it from being a serious rival, despite the fact that it has two of them, and clearly investing in costlier CFexpress cards would raise the barrier to entry. In any case, this is one of my favorite Canon cameras of this generation, since it excels in almost every area.

Also read: Lifestyle Newborn Photography Tips

8. The Nikon Z6 II

Nikon's greatest hybrid camera for wedding photos at a reasonable price.

SPECIFICATIONS

Model: Mirrorless
Full-frame sensor
24.2 Megapixels
Nikon Z-mount lens
3.2-inch tilting touchscreen with 2,100,000 dots
Viewfinder type: electronic
Maximum burst speed: 14 frames per second.
4K video resolution is the highest possible.
705g total weight

cons

Burst shooting at 4 frames per second
Best-in-class construction quality

pros

Other sophisticated AF systems
Tilt-angle display, not variable-angle display

Nikon's full-frame mirrorless camera with a mid-price tag has a lot to offer wedding photographers. To begin, the results from the 24.5MP back-illuminated sensor will not disappoint, and the Z6 II can also capture superb 4K video (up to 60p if Nikon releases a software update). The Z6's 273-point phase-detect AF system is a competent performer, covering 90% of the frame and including EyeAF, which has proved popular elsewhere.

The Z6 II can also shoot at a very fast 14 fps with the mechanical shutter and has a good buffer depth. I also appreciate how the Z6 II feels in my hands, due to the pleasant textured grip and ample usage of magnesium alloy on the body panels.

PROFESSIONAL WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY CAMERAS

9. Canon EOS R5 camera

The most suitable full-frame camera for wedding photos

SPECIFICATIONS

Model: Mirrorless
Full-frame sensor
45 Megapixels
Canon RF lens mounting
3.15-inch fully articulating touchscreen with 2,100,000 dots
Viewfinder type: electronic
Maximum burst speed: 20 frames per second.
8K is the maximum video resolution.
738g total weight

In many respects, the R5 is the ideal professional camera, and it is especially effective at weddings. Its 45MP sensor provides outstanding still images, and if you need more pixels, you may use its 400MP picture mode for still-life situations. The 8K video has well-known recording constraints, but if you work within them, you'll get stunning footage with the opportunity to extract sharp 35MP still photographs.

The camera's industry-leading AF technology is simply the finest I've ever used. The ability to follow faces even when they are hidden will come in handy for photographing weddings, and the 12 fps (20 fps with an electronic shutter) burst shooting ensures you never miss a snap. In addition, when used with an optically stabilized RF lens, the in-body image stabilization (IBIS) technology can correct for up to 8 stops. It is pricey, but it will never fail you down.

10. Sony Alpha A7R IV camera

The ideal high-resolution camera for wedding photos

SPECIFICATIONS

Model: Mirrorless
Full-frame sensor
61 Megapixels
Sony FE lens mount
3-inch tilting touchscreen with 1,440,000 dots
Viewfinder type: electronic
10 frames per second is the maximum burst speed.
4K video resolution is the highest possible.
655g total weight

If you want large files with ample versatility for cropping and post-production, look no further than the A7R IV, which has 61 MP and comfortably outperforms rival mirrorless and DSLR cameras in terms of quality. The A7R IV, on the other hand, does not trade performance for picture quality. A strong 567-point AF system with Sony's outstanding EyeAF technology supports its ability to shoot at 10 frames per second.

The A7R IV is fantastic in terms of technology, but I find it less appealing in terms of use; the handling is more tuned than previous generations, but it's simply not as approachable as competitors from Canon and Nikon. The newer, quicker, and more costly Sony A7R V is also available, with a larger buffer for burst mode, improved IBIS, and a dual-pivot vari-angle LCD, but I'd choose the IV to save some money.

11.1 OM System

Wedding photography's greatest computational camera

SPECIFICATIONS

Model: Mirrorless
Micro Four Thirds sensor
20.4 Megapixels
Micro Four Thirds lens mount
3-inch articulating touchscreen with 1,620,000 dots
Viewfinder type: electronic
Burst speed maximum: 120 fps (no AF/AE), 50 fps (complete AF/AE).
4K video resolution is the highest possible.
511g total weight

cons

increase the depth of field
Shooting at up to 120 frames per second
Pre-buffer pictures to avoid missing them.

pros

increase the depth of field
Just 20.4MP

Wait, aren't Micro Four Thirds cameras simply toys, unsuitable for professional use? Stop listening to folks at your photography club who have never used it; the OM-1 is a fantastic camera. And one of its most criticized features—the fact that its 2x crop factor sensor provides twice the depth of field—is a clear advantage for wedding photos.

When shooting in low light with a full-frame camera (such as during a church ceremony) and opening your aperture, your depth of field is so narrow that it's difficult to get more than one subject (such as the bride and groom!) in focus. However, since the OM-1's f/1.8 aperture produces results similar to those of an f/3.6, you get twice the depth of field and, consequently, more of your objects in focus while shooting in low light. (Of course, the trade-off is that you have to work a little more to attain a shallow depth of field.)

The OM-1 is also the smallest and lightest system on the market, with a tiny and lightweight chassis and lenses that are substantially smaller than APS-C lenses. As a result, your equipment is smaller and lighter. The 20.4MP resolution is conservative, but there is 50MP and 80MP high-resolution shooting via pixel shift, incredible picture stabilization, and the most wide native lens choices of any mirrorless camera system. Get over your fears and give it a go; you'll be astonished!

11. The Nikon D850

The most effective DSLR for wedding photography

SPECIFICATIONS

Model: DSLR
Full-frame sensor
45.7 Megapixels
FX Nikon lens mount
3-inch tilting touchscreen with 2,359,000 dots
Viewfinder Type: Optical
7 fps is the maximum burst speed.
4K video resolution is the highest possible.
1 kilo (1,005g)

cons

photo battery life
Excellent image quality

pros

Slow focusing speed in Live View
When compared to mirrorless competitors, it is heavy.

In a world of modern mirrorless cameras, the D850 may seem dated, but that will change once you start shooting with it. The D850 is one of the best (if not the best) DSLRs ever made, thanks to a number of factors: there's the excellent 45MP full-frame sensor with broad dynamic range, so you can get every detail from the bride's dress, and the advanced 153-point AF gets the job done.

It's heavier than the mirrorless competition, but its weather-sealed construction means it can be soaked in champagne and keep going. And it will keep shooting with a battery life that will make any mirrorless camera blush. A contemporary classic.

BEST WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY CAMERAS: HOW WE TEST CAMERAS

Cameras are tested in both real-world shooting circumstances and under highly controlled lab conditions. The resolution, dynamic range, and signal-to-noise ratio are all measured in our lab testing. ISO resolution charts are used to assess resolution; Analyzer test equipment is used to measure dynamic range; and Analyzer is also used to analyze noise throughout the ISO range of the camera. To inform our remarks in purchasing recommendations, we utilize both real-world testing and lab data.

FAQ's

What is the best camera for wedding photography?

Nikon D780 camera. This is yet another excellent choice for budget-conscious novices.
Fujifilm X-S10 camera. Are you just starting out in wedding photography
Nikon Z6 II.
Sony A7 III.
Canon EOS 5D Mark

Is a full-frame camera required for wedding photography?

While many pros utilize full-frame cameras, they are not required. Full-frame sensors often feature greater resolution, a wider dynamic range, and cleaner images at high ISOs. They are also physically larger, which allows them to balance better with larger lenses.

However, APS-C (and Micro Four Thirds) cameras have made tremendous progress in all of these areas. They are physically smaller and lighter, have smaller and lighter lenses, and are less expensive.

Is it necessary for wedding photographers to have two cameras?

Two cameras aren't required, but they're a great idea! Having two bodies, preferably similar ones, provides a backup in case one fails or is taken. It also allows you to have multiple lens choices accessible in an instant, such as a zoom lens on one and a portrait or macro lens on the other, without having to continuously shift lenses and lose those golden moments.

Is 24 MP sufficient for wedding photography?

Depending on how you shoot, 24MP is more than enough; actually, one of our choices is the 20.1MP OM System OM-1, which is more than adequate for shooting a wedding.

The actual issue is whether you're utilizing the right lenses and how competent you are at creating photographs. If you often snap photographs that are too wide (either because you don't have a long enough lens or because your composition isn't up to par), you'll need more megapixels so you can crop into your shots.

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