Having a newborn is the best feeling in life. Your happiness has no bounds and the best way to show how happy you are is to take some candid pictures of your child. These pictures will help you preserve and treasure every moment of your baby for the rest of your life. But – it is only possible if you have the best camera for newborn photography.
Babies are a divine gift and photographing them gives you a unique pleasure and aspiration. Seeing their children in the photos also makes moms and dads extremely happy. This is one of the most trending and popular genres of photography these days. It never burns the photographer because how come watching and capturing babies in photographs be boring.
Newborn babies don’t move very often. Therefore, you don’t need an expensive or high-end camera to photograph them. However, you must not go for a cheap or random camera to capture newborns as well.
In this guide, we are going to review the best camera for baby photos. Even more, we will also include a detailed buying guide explaining what you should look for in a newborn camera.
Best Cameras for Newborn Photography
The following are the ultimate cameras both the parents and the photographers can use to capture the newborns. We have chosen these cameras after testing dozens of models against parameters like image quality, speed, autofocus, ISO, image stabilization, price, etc.
| Image | Camera Model | Comparative Features | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Nikon Z6 |
| Check Price |
 | Sony a7 III |
| Check Price |
 | Canon EOS 5D Mark IV |
| Check Price |
 | Fujifilm X-T30 |
| Check Price |
 | Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III |
| Check Price |
 | Canon EOS R |
| Check Price |
 | Canon EOS R5 |
| Check Price |
 | Nikon D7200 |
| Check Price |
 | Canon EOS 70D |
| Check Price |
 | Canon EOS R6 |
| Check Price |
1. Nikon Z6 Mirrorless Camera: Best Camera for Newborn Photography
Nikon Z6 is often compared with the Sony a7 series of full-frame cameras such as Sonly a7 III. Although it does not offer a similar image quality yet it is still a very powerful and capable camera for newborn photography.
Features
The camera takes beautiful images courtesy of a 24.5 megapixels sensor. According to our test, it lags behind Sony a7 III in terms of image performance but just by the slightest of margins.
The camera further improves the images using the EXPEED 6 image processor. Overall, mages are vibrant, sharp, and high-resolution.
Nikon Z6 comes with built-in image stabilization, making it a good choice for low light and handheld photography. The ISO range of up to 51000 combined with Nikon Z mount results in extremely clear images in low light as well.
One area where Nikon Z6 wins the competition is the burst rate of 12fps compared to 10fps of Sony a7 III. It is a comparatively faster camera than its Sony counterpart and enables you to snap images quickly.
Being a relatively new mirrorless camera, Nikon Z6 also has pretty fast and accurate autofocus with 273 points autofocus points as well as a phase-detection system. The autofocus also covers 90% of the frame.
The shutter has a silent mode as well as 4K video mode, making Z6 a great option for shooting videos of newborns as well. Similarly, you can also record slow-motion 1080P movies at 120fps.
The weather-sealed camera has a high-resolution viewfinder and a tilting touchscreen for shooting from difficult angles.
Drawbacks
The camera only has one memory card slot. Similarly, the battery life is less than stellar. You also need adapters for F-mount lenses.
Our Verdict
Nikon Z6 is undoubtedly the best camera for baby pictures thanks to its features like brilliant image quality, fast autofocus, image stabilization, and versatility.
Users’ Reviews
This is what users say about this camera.
Nikon colors, build quality and everything about it beats it’s competitors. Yes the AF isn’t Sony level but with the recent firmware’s is still great!
Pros
- Compatible with dozens of lenses
- Excellent image quality
- High-resolution viewfinder and touchscreen
- 12fps continuous shooting speed
- 273-point autofocus
- 4K videos and 6K time-lapse
- ISO up to 51000
- Built-in image stabilization
Cons
- Low battery life
- Only one memory card slot
2. Sony a7 III Full-Frame Camera: Best Camera for New Parents
Sony a7 III is another outstanding full-frame mirrorless camera for newborn photography. It has almost similar features as Nikon Z6 and therefore, you can expect superb images and incredible low light performance.
Features
Sony a7 III has a 24.2 megapixels sensor compared to Nikon Z6’s 24.5 megapixels sensor. However, it delivers slightly better photos when combined with Sony’s latest and highly powerful BIONZ X image processor.
The ISO range of 50-204800, 5-axis image stabilization, and BIONZ X image processor ensure incredible images and videos in low light. The image stabilization also counters camera shakes and removes image blurs while handheld shooting.
a7 III’s autofocus is also much more potent than that of the Nikon Z6. It has 693 and 425 points for phase and contrast detection respectively. Keep in mind that Z6 only has 273-point phase detection autofocus.
Sony a7 III’s battery life is also much better than Nikon Z6. It can take 610 shots with the viewfinder and 710 shots with the touchscreen.
The camera has a burst rate of 10fps, which is slightly slower than 12fps but still quite fast.
Drawbacks
The camera does not have a vari-angle touchscreen, making it hard to shoot from different angles. Similarly, it only has one memory card slot.
Our Verdict
Sony a7 III is a versatile camera that you can use for many situations. It is also an ideal camera for parents looking to photograph their newborns due to its advanced features.
Users’ Reviews
This is what users say about this camera.
Even with the IV released, I prefer the III for the price and performance. Truly, the only issue I have with it is the focus box color being white/grey and hard to see.
Pros
- Very fast autofocus
- BIONZ X image processor
- Excellent image quality
- 10fps shooting speed
- 5-axis image stabilization
- Superb performance in low light
- Good battery life
Cons
- No vari-angle touchscreen
- Only one memory card slot
- Relatively expensive
3. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV: Best DSLR Camera for Newborn Photography
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is one of the DSLR cameras in the world at the moment. Therefore, both professional photographers and parents can use it to take breathtaking photos of their kids.
Features
The camera boasts a 30.4 megapixels sensor with DIGIG 6 image processor. The result is beautiful and sharp images even in low light. The ISO range of 32000 (expandable to 102400) is ideal for taking great pictures in the dark.
The continuous shooting speed of 7fps is less than both Nikon Z6 and Sony a7 III. However, it is sufficient for newborn photography as they don’t move much.
EOS 5D Mark IV has a powerful, fast, and accurate 61-point autofocus as well as an optical viewfinder. Furthermore, the autofocus works equally well for videos and stills. The camera also has Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus on the sensor, just like mirrorless cameras.
Apart from these impressive features, the camera records beautiful 4K videos at 30fps. It also has a rugged and weather-sealed body.
Drawbacks
The camera is quite expensive, available for almost $3000. The glaring omission however is image stabilization
Our Verdict
You should choose Canon EOS 5D Mark IV if you need a DSLR for newborn photography and have enough funds to buy it as well.
Users’ Reviews
This is what users say about this camera.
The 30 megapixels make it better than the MK 3 because of greater cropping. The noise level at HIGH ISO is better than the 5D 3. I haven’t done much of it yet, but it appears I can shoot at about 8000 with minimal noise.
Pros
- 30 megapixels sensor
- 61-point fast and accurate autofocus
- DIGIC 6+ image processor
- 32000 (expandable to 102400) ISO
- Rugged and weather-sealed body
- 4K videos
- Excellent image quality
Cons
- Comparatively expensive
- Only 7fps continuous shooting speed
- No image stabilization
4. Fujifilm X-T30 Mirrorless Camera: Best Cheap Camera for Baby Photography
Fujifilm X-T30 is available for $1000 only but it can give more expensive cameras a run for their money. It has impressive and highly advanced features that you only expect in high-end cameras.
Features
The camera has a 26 megapixels sensor with X-Processor 4 Quad Core CPU. Combined with fast and accurate hybrid autofocus, these techs offer exceptional images and videos for a very low price. The autofocus also has the face and eye detection features for tracking faces and eyes of the moving objects respectively.
The retro-styled camera has uncropped 4K video resolution which is also its standout feature. This feature is hard to find even in some more advanced and expensive cameras. The HDMI output also enables you to record videos using an external recorder.
Apart from 4K at 30fps, it records 1080P videos at 120fps for slow-motion effects.
Images taken by most cameras at high ISOs tend to have a high degree of noise but not in the case of this camera. It takes spectacularly sharp and clear images at higher ISO as well.
Fujifilm X-T30 has 8fps and 20fps continuous shooting speeds with the mechanical and electronic shutters. The latter is even comparable to Canon EOS R6. However, X-T30 has an additional feature that is a 30fps burst that delivers 16MP pictures albeit with a 1.25x crop.
Drawbacks
The camera has poor build quality and does not have weather sealing as well. Similarly, it is not very ergonomic.
Our Verdict
Fujifilm X-T30 offers the features of advanced cameras at almost half the price. You can use this camera to take splendid pictures of the kids, besides using it for almost every situation you want. Rest assured, you will never be disappointed.
Users’ Reviews
This is what users say about this camera.
I am new to photography and wanted a nice camera for traveling and family photos. I love how well pictures look with this camera and lens set (15-45mm kit lens). There are so many tutorials online to figure out the camera, for now I just stick with mostly automatic settings
Pros
- Hybrid autofocus with eye and face detection
- Uncropped 4K videos
- 26.1 megapixels sensor
- Great images at high ISOs
- Excellent image and video quality
- Useful color modes
- 8fps and 20fps speed with mechanical and electronic shutters respectively
- 30fps burst mode
Cons
- Poor build quality
- No weather sealing
5. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III: Best Entry Level Camera for Baby Photography
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III is one of the cheapest mirrorless cameras available on the market. However, don’t be fooled by its low price because it has all the features you need to take beautiful photos of your children.
Features
The camera has 16 megapixels Live CMOS sensor. It is on the lower side but the highly advanced TruePic VIII image processor more than compensates for this shortcoming. Together they work to produce sharp, clear, and detailed images.
It is also hard to find 4K resolution in such a cheap camera. M10 Mark III not only offers 4K at 30fps but also a 4K time-lapse feature. Similarly, you can record slow-motion 1080P videos at 120fps.
The camera has the best autofocus among the cheap mirrorless cameras. The 121-point autofocus can detect lines both vertically and horizontally with great accuracy.
The 3-inch tilting LCD allows you to easily navigate the camera and take pictures. M10 Mark III also has 5-axis in-body image stabilization, a rarity in cheap or even budget cameras.
Drawbacks
The battery can only last for 350 shots after every charge. Similarly, there is no microphone input for the video which may be a deal breaker for video makers.
Users’ Reviews
This is what users say about this camera.
This camera is absolutely amazing. It has so many cool features available. It’s a good first camera for amateurs. I got it for my wife so she could take photos because she loves photography.
Pros
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization
- 4K videos and 4K time-lapse
- 1080P videos at 120fps
- Good ISO performance for the price
- Decent popup flash
- 3-inch tilting touchscreen
- 121-point autofocus system
- Good image quality
Cons
- Short battery life
- No microphone input
6. Canon EOS R Mirrorless Camera: Best Camera for Baby Pictures
Canon EOS R mirrorless camera has somewhat similar features as the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV but has a smaller body and is available at a lower price.
Features
Both 5D Mark IV and EOS R have 30 megapixels sensor which is greater than cameras like Nikon Z6, Sony a7 III, and Canon EOS R6.
In my opinion, 30 megapixels is an ideal option for newborn photography. It produces sharp details and big prints without any skin imperfections and considerably less noise.
You can use the Canon EOS R with Canon’s DSLR lenses using a lens adapter. Similarly, it is also compatible with a variety of dedicated lenses. Therefore, you don’t need to spend extra money on lenses if you already have a lot of DSLR lenses in your kit.
The camera has a compact design thanks to the large 54mm diameter and short back focus distance. According to DXOMark, a third-party company that reviews cameras, it is one of the best Canon mirrorless cameras for low light.
The camera also features Canon’s renowned Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus. It is not generally needed for infants but you will need it to capture toddlers after a few years.
8fps continuous shooting speed will also help you keep abreast with the movement of your children.
Drawbacks
The camera sells for $2300 which is almost equal to EOS R6 and Nikon Z6 but it lacks image stabilization.
Our Verdict
Canon EOS R5 is the best camera for newborn photography for its compatibility with a wide variety of lenses. It also takes great pictures and the video quality is good too.
Users’ Reviews
This is what users say about this camera.
My very first Canon full frame, was hesitant, but very glad I bought it. Recommended!
Pros
- Compatible with a wide variety of lenses
- 30 megapixels sensor
- Good image and video quality
- Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus
- Large 54mm diameter
Cons
- No image stabilization
7. Canon EOS R5 Mirrorless Camera: Best Camera for Professional Newborn Photography
Canon EOS R5 is the ultimate mirrorless camera for professional photographers. It has highly advanced features and functions for you to take spectacular images of your babies.
Features
The camera comes with a whopping 45 megapixels sensor, the largest on our list. Similarly, it features an incredibly fast DIGIC X image processor that is hard to overcome for other cameras. The combination of both the large sensor and DIGIC X processor results in extremely sharp, crisp, and bright images.
The camera also excels in low light thanks to the DIGIC X processor, ISO 100-51200 (expandable to 102400), and 8 cross in-body image stabilization. Needless to mention, it has the best image stabilization system in the world as well, perfect for still shots of the babies.
The continuous shooting speed of the 20fps is also the highest among current mirrorless models.
The camera has the best autofocus in the market with 1053 autofocus points, matched only by its cheaper brother, the EOS R6.
Canon EOS R5 offers a 3.15-inch tilting touchscreen as well as an electronic viewfinder.
Another nice feature of R5 is 8K video resolution. Not many cameras offer such high video resolution even in 2022.
Drawbacks
The camera is very expensive, available for almost $4000. Unfortunately, 8K video is cropped but it is hard to find 8K resolution in other cameras. Similarly, it heats at 8K as well.
Our Verdict
Canon EOS R5 is expensive but worth its price. Its impressive techs, specs, and features enable you to take exceptionally good photos and videos. It is indeed the best camera for newborn photography if you are a professional photographer.
Users’ Reviews
This is what users say about this camera.
There is nothing left to be desired with this camera. I use it to shoot both photo and video content for some of the largest corporations in the world as well as very high end weddings.
Pros
- 45 megapixels sensor
- 8k video resolution
- DIGIC X image processor
- 20fps shooting speed
- Electronic viewfinder
- ISO 100-51200 (expandable to 102400)
- 3.15-inch touchscreen
- 8 cross in-body image stabilization
- Amazing image and video quality
Cons
- Very expensive
- Heats up at 8K
8. Nikon D7200 DSRL Camera: Affordable Camera for Newborn Photography
Nikon D7200 is another affordable camera you can use for newborn photography. According to some users, it is still better than its replacements and delivers good performance in different situations as well.
Features
The image quality of the camera is excellent thanks to the 24.2 megapixels DX-Format CMOS sensor. It beats expensive cameras like Canon EOS R6 and has a similar sensor as Fujifilm X-T30.
The camera also records Full HD 1080P video at 60fps. Most cameras in this price range offer Full HD videos at 30fps.
The 51-point autofocus system cannot come close to the autofocus systems of the other cameras we have tested. However, you don’t need fast autofocus for newborn photography as well.
The connectivity features include both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Similarly, it has two memory card slots, unlike its successors.
The build quality is also excellent with a vertical grip port, another feature that newer Nikon DSLRs lack.
Drawbacks
The touchscreen is fixed and therefore, cannot take images from various angles. The autofocus for movies can be slow. There is no built-in image stabilization as well.
Our Verdict
Nikon D7200 is the best camera for taking pictures of babies if you are looking for a cheap DSLR. It is still better than its successor in many ways besides offering superb image quality for a fraction of the price.
Users’ Reviews
This is what users say about this camera.
This camera works great! Good pictures, autofocus, and everything else works fine. Only thing I should have read the description more because it doesn’t come with a warranty. But it works so no harm.
Pros
- 24 megapixels sensor
- Full HD videos at 60p
- Good autofocus performance
- Excellent build quality
- Vertical grip port
- Two memory card slots
- Good image quality
Cons
- Fixed touchscreen
- Slow focusing for videos
9. Canon EOS 70D DSLR Camera: Cheap DSLR for Newborn Photography
Canon EOS 70D was once one of the most popular DSLR cameras by Canon. However, it is still quite a capable camera for various situations such as newborn photography.
Features
With 20 megapixels sensor and 7fps continuous shooting speed, it can rival some of the more advanced DSLR cameras. The overall image performance is excellent and it also delivers satisfactory results in low light.
The Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus performs equally well both for videos and images. The 3-inch articulating touchscreen and a built-in flash with integrated Speedlight are also quite impressive. Similarly, the camera boasts an intelligent electronic viewfinder.
You can record Full HD 1080P videos at 30fps and HD 720P videos at 60fps. The full manual mode in the video further enhances its utility.
Perhaps the best feature of the camera is EOS Remote app that enables you to control the camera remotely. The built-in Wi-Fi allows you to share your files instantly. It is GPS compatible but it is sold separately.
Drawbacks
The 19-point autofocus system is too slow by today’s standards. You can buy a camera with better autofocus even in this price range if it is your top priority.
Our Verdict
Canon EOS 70D is an ideal DSLR for capturing newborn babies. It is affordable but takes captivating images and enables you to record high quality videos as well.
Users’ Reviews
This is what users say about this camera.
This camera came in very nice shape, it does exactly what it’s supposed to do, great purchase..
Pros
- Cheap camera
- 20 megapixels sensor
- 3-inch articulating touchscreen
- Built-in flash
- Integrated Speedlight
- Electronic viewfinder
- Full HD 1080P video
Cons
- Very slow autofocus
10. Canon EOS R6 Mirrorless Camera: Best Camera for Baby Photography
Finally, we have Canon EOS R6 Mirrorless Camera on our list. It is a cheaper version of Canon EOS R5 and offers almost all of its features for more than half of the price.
Features
The camera comes with a 20 megapixels sensor, more than enough for beautiful baby portraits. Similarly, the ISO range of 100-102400 (expandable to 204800) combined with Canon’s latest DIGIC X image processor produce incredible images in the dark.
The best feature of the camera is the 20fps continuous shooting speed with the electronic shutter, making it one of the fastest cameras for newborn photography. Similarly, it has a 12fps burst rate with a mechanical shutter just like Nikon Z6.
Another impressive aspect of EOS R6 is 1053-point autofocus with 100% coverage. With phase and contrast detection, the autofocus also uses deep learning to track subjects.
Both the fast burst rate and autofocus are not that important for baby photographs but you are going to use the camera for other purposes and this is where they come to your help.
The list of the camera’s impressive features continues with 5-axis image stabilization. Similarly, it has 4K video resolution as well as built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
Drawbacks
The 20 megapixels sensor fades in comparison to its competitors such as Nikon Z6 and Sony a7 III. The camera also heats up when used for longer periods.
Our Verdict
Canon EOS R6 delivers excellent photos and videos which are the basic goals of any camera. Similarly, it is a great camera for professionals and amateurs alike when it comes to baby photography.
Users’ Reviews
This is what users say about this camera.
I bought my new Canon R6 to replace my long time companion, my 5D Mark II.
Wow, what a camera! This R6 is super fast, the focusing system is incredible, the picture quality is superb, and I have had zero overheating issues when recording video so far.
Pros
- DIGIC X image processor
- 12fps speed with mechanical shutter
- 20fps speed with electronic shutter
- ISO range of 100-102400 expandable to 204800
- Uses deep learning for subject tracking
- 5-axis image stabilization
- 4K videos
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Excellent image and video quality
Cons
- Only 20 megapixels sensor
- Heats up when used for long periods
How to Buy the Best Camera for Newborn Photography?
Just like any camera, you need to look out for quite a few features while buying a camera for baby photography.
Megapixels
The first consideration of most people is megapixels. Megapixels play an important role in determining image quality. The greater the megapixels, the better will be the image. Nowadays, you can easily find a camera with at least 20 megapixels sensor at a reasonable price. Anything less than that is unacceptable unless you are getting an extremely good deal. Apart from megapixels, the image quality also depends on the camera’s sensor size. Again, the image quality will be better if the camera has a large sensor.
Image Stabilization
Newborn babies don’t move quite often but your hands can while taking their photographs. Therefore, you need a camera with built-in image stabilization, especially if you are an amateur. Image stabilization not only counters camera shakes and removes image blurs, but it also improves the camera’s performance in low light.
Autofocus
Fast autofocus is not as important for the newborn photographs as in other situations for the same reasons. Newborns remain static for long periods making it easier for you to focus them even if the camera has slow autofocus. However, you are not going to use the camera for newborn photography only. Therefore, it is better to buy a camera with relatively fast autofocus.
Connectivity Options
Most modern cameras come with connectivity options like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, USB, etc. It is nice to have all these options but Wi-Fi and USB are necessary in my opinion. They help you transfer your files easily.
Price
You must not go for an expensive camera if you are an amateur or novice. New parents can take beautiful pictures of their babies using budget cameras like Canon EOS 70D and Fujifilm X-T30. When it comes to professionals, even a camera like Canon EOS R5 may not be sufficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What age is best to photograph a newborn?
The best time to photograph a newborn is 6-7 days after the birth. Some photographers also wait for babies to reach the six weeks milestone.
2. What can I use for baby photography?
In my opinion, you must try to use a DSLR camera for baby photography. They usually have a high ISO and interchangeable lenses. Similarly, they can also shoot in RAW. Mirrorless cameras on the other hand are quieter and do not disturb newborns while they are asleep. Both types of cameras offer excellent image quality as well.
3. Which are the best cameras for newborn photography?
The following are the top three cameras for newborn photography.
- Canon EOS R5 for professional newborn photography
- Sony a7 III is the best Sony camera for newborn photography
- Nikon Z6 is the best Nikon camera for newborn photography
Final Thoughts
Newborn photography is perhaps the easiest yet most exciting and rewarding form of photography. You also don’t need to buy a very advanced or expensive camera with high-tech features to capture newborns. They are usually docile and don’t create many problems for the photographers. Our guide strives to make it easier for you to buy the best camera for newborn photography according to your requirements, shooting style, and budget.