Whether a novice or a pro, shooting a wedding is a high-pressure assignment for any photographer. Weddings often take months or even years to plan, and when the big day is over the happy couple will look at the photos you took almost every day for the rest of their lives.
So, no pressure then.
But have no fear! We’ve made a list of the 10 best cameras to use at a wedding, ranging from DSLRs to polaroids, ones perfect for those just starting to the professional who’s looking for an upgrade.
OUR TOP PICK
A favorite among wedding photographers, the Canon 5D Mark IV has all the features you could want to make that wedding photo pop.
With an incredible autofocus system, it can quickly and accurately focus on moving subjects, making it perfect for a shot of the bride walking down the aisle or the couple's first dance.
On top of this the Mark IV is versatile in any light, can capture videos in 4K, has built-in WI-FI for remote uploading, and has amazing performance with up to 7.0 fps continuous shooting speed.
This is a camera that will deliver phenomenal results no matter the assignment and is a safe bet when it comes to capturing the joy of your client’s wedding day.
Pros
- Battery life - can take on average 900 photos
- Swift autofocus - offers much better Live View and image autofocus than most DSLRs
- Built-in WI-FI - can instantly upload or share images
Cons
- Video recording - A limit on video recording of 29:59
- 4K video playback - This feature has been known to be rather slow.
EDITORS CHOICE
Starting in any industry is difficult, but with the Fujifilm X-T200 camera you’re almost guaranteed quality pictures with just the touch of a button.
While it doesn't have all the fancy features that others on the market have, its user-friendly interface is designed to get you that perfect picture without having to change several settings for every photo.
Known for its 3.5-inch vari-angle touchscreen, 4K video, and improved autofocus, this camera can keep up with the top players in the photography world in terms of image quality.
Other key features of the X-T200 include its ability to continually shoot at 8fps, face and eye detection, and WI-FI/Bluetooth connectivity. It’s also just a nice camera to look at, with the design looking and feeling like an old-school 35mm SLR camera.
The X-T200 is a good all-rounder for beginners in the industry, or those who want to learn photography.
Although it has simple features it’s able to function well and produce high-quality images, without the hassle of having to learn all the settings that feature on more professional-style cameras.
Pros
- Compact build - small and lightweight design makes it easy to travel, hold, and use
- 4K video - able to capture high-quality video with the touch of a button
- 3.5-inch touch screen - able to change settings from the screen. The screen also rotates to face forwards
- 8fps shooting with mechanical shutter - produces high-quality images
Cons
- Disappointing battery life - on average 270 shots
- Design - though lightweight the design can make it feel cheap and breakable
- No in-body image stabilization - the lack of stabilization may affect the quality or look of the images
BEST VALUE
Canon cameras have for a long time claimed the top spot of the best camera brand, and the EOS-1D is the next in a long line of successes.
Made purely for the professional, the DSLR/mirrorless camera hybrid comes with a range of features and cutting-edge tech that will bring your images steps above everyone else’s.
The features on this camera are quite frankly insane, such as its Deep Learning autofocus system. Deep Learning enables the camera to essentially teach itself, much quicker than it could be manually programmed by a person.
The system is taught how to always focus on a human face or head, meaning that even if your subject is moving the camera will always be able to focus on them without blur.
Other outstanding features of the EOS-1D include an LCD 3.2 inch fixed touchscreen of 2.1 million dots, an optical viewfinder, a max burst speed of 16fps, and the new Smart Controller.
This feature replaces the traditional joystick for moving your autofocus points around at speed, allowing you to change your focus as fast as you need to.
Pros
- Deep Learning Autofocus - this feature has changed the autofocus game; you’re guaranteed crisp and clean images of your subject every time
- Smart Controller - you can now faster than ever change photo/video settings or the subject you wish to focus on
- Uncropped 4K - its ability to capture video is unparalleled in the current market
- 20fps with electronic shutter - Provides sharp quality in your images
Cons
- LCD 3.2-inch screen doesn’t rotate – Not a deal-breaker for most people it’s worth a mention
RUNNER UP
As a well-deserved rival to Canon, Nikon offers a wide range of DSLR cameras. If you’re after a good all-rounder, then the D7500 is the camera for you.
Designed for the professional, this camera boasts an 8fps continuous shooting speed, a 51-point autofocus system, and can capture 4K video.
Although it has a lower resolution than previous models, the high-performance sensor means it produces the same image quality as other DSLRs.
The camera also features a tilting touchscreen with a resolution of 922k dots. The build feels secure and weighty, with the deep grip at the front giving you a firm hold on the camera to keep it steady.
Pros
- 8fps continuous shooting - captures clear and sharp images of your subject
- Excellent ISO performance – The camera performs well in all lighting
- Advanced autofocus system - makes capturing moving subjects easier
Cons
- Only one SD card slot - You’ll have to carry more than one SD card.
- Downgraded autofocus systems - compared to previous models the D7500 has a less sophisticated autofocus system.
RUNNER UP
The Lumix S5 is the perfect camera for the photographer who already has experience with DSLRs but wants to try something new.
Though packing almost the same power as previous models it weighs about 300g’s less than its predecessor, making it perfect to travel to events with and ensuring that your arms won’t get tired from carrying it all day.
To ensure that you never miss a moment, you can use the 6K photo mode for effective 30fps burst shooting, and the color science built into this camera means that you’re always left with a beautifully clean and sharp image.
This camera will make you realize that DSLRs aren’t the be all and end all, and that mirrorless cameras can do the same if not better in terms of image and video quality.
Pros
- Good video - able to shoot in 4K/60p, it ensures that your videos are always clear and sharp
- 5-axis IBIS – you’ll be able to take blur-free images and shake-free videos
- Dual card slots - you definitely won’t run out of memory while you work
Cons
- Tracking focus limited to 6fps - something to think about if you want to capture as much detail as possible
- Autofocus isn’t as good compared to other models - means you’ll have to put in more work to manually focus on your subject
RUNNER UP
So, you want a camera that doesn’t weigh a ton? Then the E-M10 is the camera for you. Though small it packs a punch and has several features much bigger cameras have like 5-axis in-body stabilization.
The updated 20MP sensor and improvements made to the continuous autofocusing bring it in line with other high-end cameras on the market.
For the photos of the wedding party, the face/eye priority autofocus can focus on faces more accurately in profile or looking down, ensuring that you capture sharp portraits even at odd angles.
A big draw to this camera is that it's lightweight and compact, making it easy to travel with and use for long periods. To get the portability however the E-M10 had to sacrifice a metal frame in favor of plastic, which can feel flimsy at times.
Despite having a few drawbacks, this is perhaps the most perfect camera to travel with, especially if your photography booking is far away.
And with it having many of the features of bigger cameras it might make you question why you would need a big bulky camera at all.
Pros
- Latest 20MP sensor - takes high-quality images in all lighting
- 5-axis in-body stabilization - keeps pictures and videos sharp
- Excellent image quality - this makes the colors pop in the photos
- 4K video - all videos look like they were taken on a bigger and perhaps more professional style camera
Cons
- No microphone input - while it's able to capture in 4K unfortunately your videos won’t have sound
- Design - No weatherproofing so be careful when using in bad weather
RUNNER UP
The A7R IV is Sony’s highest resolution full-frame camera and features a record-breaking 61 million pixels, all while still being able to shoot at 10fps.
The autofocus uses an eye-tracking system which is super effective in tracking portrait subjects and is perfect for shots of multiple people. Like most cameras, it also features 4K video, a 3-inch tilting touchscreen, and space for 2x SD cards so you definitely won’t run out of memory.
This is a camera that was made by professionals for professionals. You have to learn how to set it up, what the functions do, and how to get it to work in your way. But if you want to take your wedding photography to the next level then this may be the camera for you.
Pros
- Highest full-frame resolution - the biggest draw to this camera, your images will look better than they ever have
- Personalization - Although complicated to use, the many settings can be personalized to fit your photography style
- 10fps shooting - you’ll never miss a moment with this feature
Cons
- Possible poor balance - While the camera itself isn’t that heavy, adding a big lens to the front can lead to an imbalance
- Slightly lower video quality - compared to other cameras, as sometimes lower pixel cameras, are more suited to video
RUNNER UP
Considered one of the best DSLRs ever made, this all-rounder is perfect for capturing every moment of the big day. Featuring a continuous shooting speed of 7fps and a 45MP full-frame, you’re able to capture everything in amazing detail.
Other benefits include a 3-inch tilting touchscreen and an impressive battery life guaranteed to last you all day. Also, the two fast SD card slots ensure that you’ll have enough memory for the whole day, although you’ll need to get fast cards for peak performance.
If you want a safe bet for a good wedding camera, this is the one for you. It has been tried and tested by wedding photographers and has consistently come out on top despite there being bigger and flashier cameras on the market.
Pros
- The level of detail – it’s able to capture incredible detail without having to add different lenses or fiddle with annoying settings
- Long battery life - you’ll be calm in the knowledge that your camera won’t die on you while working
- 4K video - perfect for when you want to capture the action in stunning detail
Cons
- Needs fast SD cards - a must if you want the camera to work at its peak
- Lighting - while it works well in all lighting the quality in images tends to drop off in darker environments.
RUNNER UP
When you think instant cameras you think polaroid, and the OneStep+ brings you that classic polaroid design with a modern twist. Able to capture images of 108x88mm with a built-in flash and self-timer, this camera will provide fun and joy to you and your guests.
The addition of Bluetooth connectivity allows for remote shutter control via your smartphone, or you can even take a photo with a clap of your hands (yes, really). With the added benefit of getting your photos instantly, guests can leave with a memory of your wedding already in their hands.
Pros
- Large prints - would make an excellent wedding favor to guests
- Bluetooth compatibility - gives you many options so you won't get bored
Cons
- Battery life - with a built-in battery you’ll want to make sure it’s all charged up for the day
RUNNER UP
Disposable cameras give wedding photos a more personal touch. Perfect for handing out to guests, you’ll be able to see your wedding from angles that you never would have otherwise.
Able to capture 27 photos on 35mm film and with a built-in flash, the opportunities for photos are endless.
Pros
Many exposures - you’ll get back so many pictures to choose your favorites from
Cons
Flash - on this model the flash needs charging
Best Wedding Camera Buying Guide
Buying a camera isn’t as simple as you might think, and you should consider many factors to get the right camera for you and your work.
You’ll have to think about the type of camera you want, what skill level you need to use it, and what extras you’d need to make those pictures perfect.
Below are some key points to think about to make sure your purchase is the right one for you.
DSLR vs Mirrorless
The photography community is often split into two camps - DSLR vs mirrorless. But what's the difference? It's just about how the camera takes the picture.
With a DSLR the camera operates with a fixed digital sensor, and uses the same lens for framing, focusing, and taking the photo.
Inside the camera a mirror splits or directs the incoming light towards the optical viewfinder, allowing you to see an exact optical view of the scene.
Mirrorless cameras don’t use a mirror to reflect the image into the viewfinder. Instead, light passes straight through the lens onto the digital sensor, which then shows the image on your camera’s LCD screen.
These cameras are smaller and lighter than their DSLR rivals because there isn’t a mechanical mirror inside.
Extra kit
If you’ve bought a camera, it likely comes with some extra kit. Lenses are the typical extras that photographers buy to improve their images, though for the novice this probably won’t be necessary.
If you want to buy a new lens, there are some things you should know. Your best bet is to buy a 1.8 or 1.4 50mm lens, which is broadly equivalent to a human's field of vision.
The decimal number on any lens denotes the “speed” of the lens, with a lower number meaning a wider aperture is available, improving sharpness and depth of field. Also make sure you’re buying the right brand, if you have a Canon camera only a Canon lens will work with it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are mirrorless cameras better?
A mirrorless camera is lighter, but a DSLR usually has more lenses to choose from. A mirrorless camera works better in very bright conditions, while a DSLR performs great in low light.
And both cameras offer speedy autofocus so you're able to capture images quickly and easily.
