Finding the best camera for jewelry photography can be a bit tricky. There are a lot of cameras that you can use for capturing necklaces, earrings, rings, and watches. But – not all of these cameras meet your particular requirements and budget. The most ideal cameras for jewelry are high-resolution macro cameras. These cameras enable you to take highly detailed and sharp images of the subjects from a very close range.
Most often, you have to take pictures of the jewelry from close quarters, such as from just 1-2 feet away. You need to control the aperture setting or have a Micro Four Thirds camera to fully focus the ornaments or the products. Almost all the DSLR and mirrorless cameras allow you to adjust aperture according to the size of the subject and its distance. However, it can get confusing to buy the right one because there are so many of them to choose from.
You need not worry because we have compiled a list of the best jewelry photography cameras for your convenience. You can get any of these cameras to take beautiful photos of jewelry irrespective of its type.
Best Cameras to Capture Jewelry
The following are the ultimate cameras to capture jewelry according to our experts. We have chosen these cameras after extensive research and measuring their performance against factors like megapixels, lens compatibility, high-resolution macro photography, focal length, autofocus, image stabilization, and shooting speed, etc.
| Image | Camera Name | Sensor | ISO | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Sony Alpha a7 iii |
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| Check Price |
 | Canon EOS 5D Mark IV |
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| Check Price |
 | Nikon Coolpix P900 |
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| Check Price |
 | Canon EOS 70D |
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| Check Price |
 | Canon PowerShot SX740 HS |
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| Check Price |
 | Olympus Pen PL-7 |
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| Check Price |
 | Fujifilm X-T10 |
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| Check Price |
 | Sony Alpha a5000 |
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| Check Price |
 | Canon EOS 90D |
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| Check Price |
 | Nikon D800 |
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| Check Price |
So, let us start our reviews with the first camera on our list.
1. Sony Alpha a7 iii: Best Camera for Jewelry Photography
Sony Alpha a7 iii is a perfect and reliable choice for professionals. It is a highly advanced mirrorless camera with features for every type of photography including jewelry.
Features
It allows exceptional close-ups of jewelry courtesy of the minimum focusing distance of only 11 inches. You can get incredibly close to the jewelry and highlights all of its details and glory brilliantly. Similarly, the aperture range of f/3.5-22 and extended ISO range of 50-2048007 mean it excels in low light situations such as in studios, wedding halls, and other indoor functions.
The 5-axis image stabilization ensures longer exposure times, something you also need for beautiful close-range shots as in the case of jewelry.
The advanced 24.2 megapixels full-frame sensor produces high-quality images. Perhaps, the best feature of the camera is 693-point phase-detection and 425-point contrast-detection autofocus covering 93% of the frame. Therefore, it instantly tracks and focuses even the fastest moving objects.
The continuous shooting speed of 10fps is a boon for jewelry photographers as there is a lot of movements in parties and functions. The camera also shoots in 4K if you are considering recording jewelry videos.
Made of magnesium alloy, the body has a strong resistance against dust and moisture. Unfortunately, it is not fully waterproof but the battery compartment has a waterproof seal covering.
Drawbacks
You can only use the touchscreen for focusing and that is the camera’s major shortcoming.
Our Verdict
All in all, the Sony Alpha a7 iii is the right camera for jewelry photography. It has all the features and functions to take stunning images of the jewels in any situation.
User Reviews
I used to shoot with Nikon & would miss focus all the time. This camera never misses focus with eye-detect. Has helped me grow my photography business rapidly.
2. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV: Excellent Jewelry Photography Camera
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is one of the most popular DSLRs on the market. Almost every kind of photographer can use this camera for its combination of basic and advanced features.
Features
What separates this camera from the rest is its whopping 30.4 megapixels sensor. It combines with DIGIC 6+ image processor to create crisp, sharp, and incredibly detailed images even in low light. The extended ISO range of 50-102400 further enhances the quality of low-light images.
The camera has a minimum focusing distance of only 0.9 inches with a Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM lens. The maximum aperture of f/2.8 is also outstanding for macro photos such as in the case of jewelry. The brilliant 61-point Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus of the camera also works will this and other lenses.
The ability to shoot in RAW imparts more details to images compared to cameras that only shoot in JPEG.
The 4K video resolution at 30p and continuous shooting speed of 7fps are also quite impressive. The came can shoot in Full HD at 60p and HD at 120p for super slow-motion videos. However, it has a crop factor of 1.7 when you shoot in 4K.
Drawbacks
Unfortunately, 5D Mark IV has average battery life. But – it should not be a deal breaker because you can always buy a spare battery.
Our Verdict
In general, Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a wonderful camera for jewelry photography. You can use it to take spectacular images of the jewelry and mesmerize your audience.
User Reviews
Simply put this camera takes damn good photos. Worth the money in this case the old adage is true. You get what you pay for!
3. Nikon Coolpix P900: Best Affordable Camera for Jewelry Photography
Nikon Coolpix P900 is an inexpensive DSLR, making it a great jewelry camera for novices and beginners.
Features
The main highlight of the camera is the whopping 83X optical zoom thanks to the 24-2000mm lens. 166x dynamic zoom and 332x digital zoom are also worth bragging about. The focal length for the lens is equivalent to 35mm.
What makes it an excellent camera for jewelry photography is its closest focusing distance of only 1.8 feet. You can find cameras with even smaller focusing distance but P900 also offers low ISO settings, necessary for this kind of photography.
Similarly, the camera features a 16 megapixel CMOS sensor, excellent image stabilization, and an aperture range of f/2.8-6.5, all of which help you take stunning shots of all kinds of jewelry.
Some other notable features of the camera are 3-inch fully articulating screen, electronic viewfinder, Full HD video, and full manual controls.
The built-in wireless and NFC send photos directly to your smartphone or computer through the Nikon SnapBridge app. The camera also has internal GPS, allowing you to find your location in the wild.
Drawbacks
The only problem with Nikon Coolpix P900 is the lack of RAW support. Similarly, it is slightly larger and heavier.
Our Verdict
Nikon Coolpix 900 it is a fantastic yet inexpensive camera for jewelry photography. It has a few shortcomings but it does the job for you without costing a fortune.
User Reviews
Bought this camera for my fiance. She absolutely loves it! Takes wonderful photos and videos. Zoom is outstanding!
4. Canon EOS 70D: Best Jewelry Photography Camera for Beginners
Canon EOS 70D is another superb DSLR camera for capturing jewelry. Available for around $800 with an 18-35mm kit lens, it is pretty affordable but also offers some really nice features for jewelry and other kinds of photography.
Features
The 20 megapixels camera has live processing filters. Besides, the excellent 3-inch retractable touchscreen allows you to focus on the subjects with the touch of your finger. It is an easy to adjust touchscreen as well, making it a great camera for jewelry, especially for beginners.
The camera also comes with a built-flash to illuminate the shooting space for you if it is too dark. It delivers good macro shots due to the maximum aperture of f/3.5.
The 19-point cross-type autofocus is particularly fast. Similarly, the 7fps continuous shooting speed is at par with the more expensive Canon EOS 5D Mark IV. The continuous autofocus for continuous shooting in Live View is another outstanding feature of the camera.
The ISO range of 100-12800 (extendable to 25600) coupled with excellent white balance results in a captivating jewelry images. The low shutter lag further enables you to take good photos of all the ornaments on display.
Our Verdict
In short, Canon EOS 70D is an excellent choice for beginners if they want a camera for jewelry photography.
User Reviews
Great beginner camera. I started my YouTube channel this year and love the video and picture quality of my shots. All my family and friends think I’m some super professional, but I love capturing big and important moments in high quality.
5. Nikon Z7 FX-Format Mirrorless Camera: Best Mirrorless Camera for Jewelry Photography
Nikon Z7 FX-Format Full-Frame is the best camera for jewelry photography, especially if you are interested in close-ups. It ticks all the right boxes when it comes to getting a camera for capturing jewelry.
Features
The acme of the camera is the staggering 45.7 megapixels backside illuminated image sensor. The larger sensor size has been made possible by removing the optical low pass filter. As we already know, high megapixels and large sensors ensure spectacular images in all light conditions.
9fps continuous shooting speed, as well as 493-poitnt on-sensor phase-detect autofocus, make it easier to capture fast action with quick and accurate subject tracking.
The 24-70mm focal length and the minimum focusing distance of just 0.99 ft. allow you to take spectacular landscapes and extreme close-ups of the jewelry or whatever you are shooting. You can also select the Aperture Priority mode to create breathtaking jewelry images from the close range.
Nikon Z7 has built-in vibration reduction compared to previous models that had stabilization in the lens. Needless to say, Nikon Z7 is compatible with Z Nikkor lenses and F-mount Nikkor lenses. Similarly, image stabilization works will all these lenses.
Drawbacks
You can only choose from three native lenses at the moment. It is a bit limiting for experienced photographers who use different types of lenses for different situations. It is also quite an expensive camera.
Our Verdict
Nikon Z7 offers fabulous image and video quality in a compact and lightweight body. The ISO range is excellent and connection with smartphones and computer is easy through built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The high-resolution viewfinder and 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen make shooting jewelry a delight.
User Reviews
The z7 is a detail machine! AF is good and with new firmware 3.x getting better and better.
6. Olympus Pen PL-7: Best Compact Mirrorless Camera for Jewelry Photography
The most popular mirrorless camera by Olympus, the Pen PL-7 can help you capture splendid images of the jewelry. It offers a superb manual mode besides RAW support.
Features
However, it is the best and ideal camera for jewelry photography because of its 16 megapixels Micro Four Thirds sensor. Therefore, you can get incredibly close to rings, bracelets, necklaces, bangles, earrings, and everything related to jewelry. The TruePic VII image processor captures every color and detail in jewelry and other subjects.
The 81-point autofocus system is quite fast. Similarly, the continuous shooting speed of 8fps means you won’t miss any action while capturing jewelry. The 180° tilting touchscreen works effortlessly and exceptionally well at all zoom ranges.
The 3-axis image stabilization and a touchscreen shutter release make capturing portraits and self-portraits easier and faster than ever. It is also the perfect camera for product photography thanks to the 14 Art filters.
Drawbacks
The camera does have a few limitations such as a single control dial and lack of built-in flash. However, these are not major problems and you can live without them.
Our Verdict
Olympus Pen PL-7 is a beautiful compact camera with some great features for product photography. You cannot find a better mirrorless camera for taking jewelry shots in this price range.
User Reviews
Olympus puts out a great system, I would put this up against the large processors any time.
7. Fujifilm X-T10: Jewelry Photography Camera with Best Autofocus
Fujifilm X-T10 is a midrange mirrorless camera available for around $700 with an 18-55mm kit lens. It offers 16 megapixels APS-C sensor with an Exmore II image processor. The combination of these two delivers brilliant images and videos.
Features
The large sensor also delivers crisp, and color-rich images using the original color filter array. The real-time viewfinder shows the images clearly even in bright conditions.
8fps continuous shooting speed is better than some more expensive cameras. Similarly, the new autofocus system has six different autofocus modes including 3D tracking, Wide Tracking, Single Point, and Zone tracking. Therefore, it makes it a breeze and lightning fast to track and focus a subject despite unpredictable movements and speed.
The compact and lightweight body ensures better operability by providing new and conveniently located controls. You can use different controls such as Shutter Priority mode, Program mode, Manual mode, and Aperture Priority Mode which is perfect for shooting close-ups.
Or, you can choose the excellent Auto mode with 58 presets. When it is in Auto Mode, the camera automatically chooses one of these presets according to the situation. The quality of images is pristine no matter which model you choose.
You can also trigger the shutter release or focus using the dedicated Fujifilm Camera Remote app.
Drawbacks
Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touchscreen. Similarly, the maximum ISO, while shooting in RAW is only 6400.
Our Verdict
Fujifilm X-10 is not only an affordable option but will also help you take your jewelry photographs to the next level.
User Reviews
I really love FUJI cameras. I had a Sony A6000. It was a serious disappointment. Love this new Fuji.
8. Sony Alpha a5000: Best Cheap Camera for Jewelry Photography
Sony Alpha a5000 is the cheapest camera on our list as it is available for only around $400. However, don’t be fooled by its low price because it packs a lot of features and punch for jewelry photography.
Features
To begin with, it has a 20 megapixels sensor, enabling you to capture relatively high details in your images. Similarly, the 180° tilting touchscreen helps you see exactly what you want to capture. The camera also helps you take gorgeous self-portraits thanks to a zoom lever.
The Auto Object Framing gives your photos a professional look. The 16-50mm kit lens is ideal for creating beautiful landscapes as well as portraits of your subjects. The lens is collapsible making a5000 more compact and travel friendly. It allows you to take images of the highest quality both in Auto and Manual settings.
Drawbacks
The continuous shooting speed of4fps is low but more than enough for a beginner. However, the camera doesn’t have any kind of image stabilization. That may be a limitation especially for photographers who use slow shutter speeds for low light photography. But – it has quick autofocus for maintaining the sharpness and highlighting details.
Our Verdict
All things considered, the Sony Alpha a5000 is the best camera for jewelry photography for newcomers or casual use.
User Reviews
Bought this camera here 6 years ago, I’m still as obsessed as I was m on the first day! It’s perfect!
9. Canon EOS 90D: Best DSLR Camera for Jewelry Photography
You cannot ignore Canon EOS 90D when you think of the best jewelry photography equipment. It is one of the most famous DSLRs by Canon.
Features
Offering a large 32.5 megapixels sensor and highly advanced DIGIC 8+ Image processor, it enables you to create crisp, sharp, and extremely beautiful jewelry photos.
Perhaps, the best feature of the camera is its 5481-point Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus. You can focus on a specific point while shooting in Live View. Similarly, autofocus ensures fast and precise focusing even in random settings. In simple words, it focuses on the movement as it happens. The Eye-detect autofocus can eve detect and focus on your subjects’ eyes for expressive and natural images.
Canon EOS 90D is also quite a fast camera courtesy of 10fps continuous shooting speed with no time lag. The 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen helps you easily compose and view photos, take beautiful selfies, and focus specific locations in the Live View with a tap of your finger.
The high dynamic range and ISO of 100-25600 for produce images of the matchless quality in all conditions. The closest focusing distance of 35cm and a maximum aperture of f/3.5 are also ideal for macro shots.
The camera can shoot in 4K at 30P and Full HD at 120P for slow-motion videos.
Drawbacks
When it comes to weaknesses, the camera has only one memory card slot as well as a cramped rear dial.
Our Verdict
In general, Canon EOS 90 is the best camera for jewelry photography if you are looking for a DSLR camera to accomplish the task.
User Reviews
Bought this as an upgrade and im extremely happy. Takes amazing photos. I think its fairly easy to use. Has auto settings that are very helpful for beginners and manual settings for those with more experienced or looking to be.
10. Nikon D800: Best Camera for Sharp Jewelry Images
Nikon D800 and Nikon D800E are the cameras for you if you mostly shoot indoors or in studios. Both of them improve sharpness and reduces blurriness with the help of a low pass filter.
Features
They are midrange DSLR cameras with impressive features like negligible noise, the widest tonal range, and very high dynamic range. They are a great choice for RAW photographers if they can control distance, light, and the subject itself.
The camera features a staggering 36 megapixels sensor with EXPEED 3 image processor. As a result, images are sharp and devoid of false color and blurs. Such a large sensor is also perfect for product or jewelry photography. It can further beautify even the smallest of gems in the photos.
Nikon D800 also boasts precise 51-point autofocus to ensure rendering of every pixel and image sharpness. The maximum video resolution of Full HD 1080P at 30P and HD 720P at 60P delivers broadcast quality videos as well.
Drawbacks
The modern and ergonomic design facilitates you to handle serious tasks such as shooting jewelry a touch away. However, the grip is too small, especially for people with large hands.
Our Verdict
Summing up, Nikon D800 is a great camera for product photography, especially for studios and indoors. It delivers a sharp and crisp image every single time.
User Reviews
It’s a Fantastic body for the money. The dynamic range and sharpness is extremely good, even by today’s standards. I highly recommend this camera if you’re just getting into full frames, or even if you’re knowledgeable in photography.
How to Buy the Best Camera for Jewelry Photography?
Purchasing a camera for capturing jewelry requires you to keep a few things in mind such as:
Megapixels
The first consideration is always the megapixels. A low megapixel camera would do the job nicely if you only want to share jewelry pictures on social media. However, a larger sensor with high megapixels is the way to go if you want to use images professionally such as on posters and pamphlets. The more the megapixels, the greater the details camera will capture, and sharper and crispier would be the images, drawing more attention to the jewelry.
Lens
A good lens can also improve your images considerably and this is where DSLR cameras have a distinct edge over mirrorless cameras. They are compatible with a wide range of lenses. The best lens for jewelry photography is the macro lens with a smaller focal length. It helps you create spectacular life-size close-ups of the precious stones. It helps you get closer to subjects and bring out more details.
ISO Range
A camera with a high ISO range is necessary if you want to shoot in low light such as indoors or in studios. Shooting at high ISO can result in considerable noise in images but not if you are using a high-quality mirrorless or DSLR camera.
Image Stabilization
You must buy a camera with built-in image stabilization irrespective of what you are shooting. Image stabilization removes camera shakes, steadies the image, and keeps blurs at bay, especially for handheld shooting. It also reduces noise when you are using high ISOs in low light.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which camera is perfect for jewelry photography?
Sony Alpha a7 iii is the best camera for jewelry photography because of its astounding features such as 24.2 megapixels sensor, 10fps continuous shooting speed, long exposure times, fast autofocus, good ISO, and 5-axis image stabilization, etc.
2. Do jewelry photographers need macro lenses?
You may need a macro lens for smaller stones for having better image quality in large sizes. However, you don’t need a macro or any lens on most occasions. An 18-55mm kit lens is enough because images for the internet don’t need to be big.
3. What do you need for jewelry photography?
Using a mirrorless or DLSR camera is the best method to capture jewelry. A camera also needs to have image stabilization for reducing camera shakes. You can also use a tripod to steady the camera. Similarly, you must light your jewelry evenly and consistently. Get your product in focus and use the correct camera aperture.
4. How to avoid reflection in jewelry photography?
You need to adopt the trial and error method to remove reflections from jewelry photography. You can eliminate reflections by placing the paper at the bottom and around the camera lens. It will also throw more light on the jewelry or your subjects.
5. How do you take picture of a diamond ring?
First of all, put the ring in its box or a bright space. Attach the camera to a tripod and adjust its setting according to the quality and image size you require. Now, simply press the shutter to capture the ring.
Final Thoughts
Jewelry photography is more difficult than other types of photography. It is a cumbersome task to avoid reflections coming from gleaming gems and stones. Similarly, you need to get particularly close to the jewelry to get the best results. It also requires a high-quality camera with relatively advanced features. Without the best camera for jewelry photography, you cannot achieve the image quality you are looking for when it comes to jewelry photography.
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Manny