So, here is the thing. You love your pets and want to capture them in the photographs whenever you get a chance. However, it is easier said than done. You need the best camera for pet photography to get the best images possible.
Pet photographs enable you to cherish the happy moments you spend with your favorite pets for the rest of your life. A good camera enables you to record every moment, movement, and detail of your furry friends. It should also provide excellent image quality and sharpness to keep them fresh forever.
Most of us have an intense desire of taking photos of the pets we bring home. You have to ensure your camera captures the best and the most amazing shots of the animals to make them memorable.
Best Camera for Pet Photography 2022
It can be quite confusing to select the right camera for your pet. You have to consider things like focus, colors, sharpness, image quality, power, and a lot of other factors. However, you need not worry. We have simplified the process for you by reviewing the best pet photography camera. The list also includes some other fantastic models that you can use for pet photography.
So, let us start our guide without any further ado.
| Image | Camera Model | Sensor | Video Resolution | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Canon PowerShot SX730 |
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| Check Price |
 | Canon EOS M50 Mark II |
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| Check Price |
 | Sony Alpha a6400 |
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| Check Price |
 | Panasonic Lumix GX85 |
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| Check Price |
 | Nikon D3500 |
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| Check Price |
 | Olympus PEN E-PL10 |
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| Check Price |
 | Canon EOS Rebel T8i |
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| Check Price |
 | Fujifilm X-T30 |
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| Check Price |
 | Sony A7 III |
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| Check Price |
 | Nikon Z7 |
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| Check Price |
1. Canon PowerShot SX730: Best Affordable Camera for Pet Photography
Canon PowerShot SX730 is a small and lightweight camera with 40x optical zoom. It is also a very affordable compact camera. However, it is more suitable for beginners while the professional should have a more advanced camera.
The 40x optical zoom helps you get close to the pets without freaking them out. Similarly, it excels in low light conditions thanks to built-in optical image stabilization and DIGIC 6 image processor. It easily and accurately captures moving pets due to the subject tracking autofocus as well.
The 20.3 megapixels camera records Full HD 1080P videos as well as timelapse videos. It has multiple shooting modes to cover all the situations you may find your pets in.
You also don’t need any special training or knowledge to use this camera. The 3-inch tilt LCD makes it even easier to take photos. The connectivity options include W-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth.
Unfortunately, SX370 does not shoot in RAW format. It is a major downside, especially for professional photographers who need high quality and large prints for their clients.
All in all, Canon PowerShot SX370 is an excellent entry-level camera for pet photography. However, it is not an ideal choice for professionals.
Product Test Results
Here are the results of the tests conducted on this camera.
I have 2 of these cameras myself. I have had different cameras all my life. This is by far the best pocket size camera I have ever used. The 2 I just bought are Christmas presents for some special people.
Sample images taken with Canon PowerShot SX730 HS.
2. Canon EOS M50 Mark II: Best Beginner Camera for Pet Photography
Canon EOS M50 Mark II has some really cool features for pet photography. The APS-C mirrorless camera are much cheaper than full-frame options but offer exceptional flexibility and functions.
The camera produces brilliant images in both JPEG and RAW. Therefore, it is equally popular among beginners and professionals. The continuous shooting speed of 10fps is also great for taking candid pictures of your pet.
The 24 megapixels sensor, as well as DIGIC 8 image processor, ensure images of the highest quality. The camera is also popular among pet vloggers because of its vari-angle touchscreen. Not to mention, it can also record in 4K at 24p and slow motion HD videos in 120p.
M50 Mark II has one of the best in-class autofocus as well. It is perfect for pet photography because cats and dogs rarely stat stationery for long. M50 Mark II has full automatic as well as semi-automatic shooting moods. Once again, it helps a lot while photographing pets because you don’t have to change settings manually while shooting fast moving critters. However, there is also a manual mode for more experienced photographers.
Unfortunately, the camera does not have a USB charging feature. Similarly, there is no clean output while recording.
Canon EOS M50 Mark II is ideal for beginners but serious photographers also widely use it for different scenarios. It has something for everyone be it is a novice or professional photographer.
Product Test Results
Here are the results of the tests conducted on this camera.
Good compact dslr/mirrorless. I already have Canon M10 but wanted to upgrade and M50 Mark II is great small professional camera, very lightweight and compact!
3. Sony Alpha a6400: Best Mirrorless Camera for Pet Photography
The main highlights of the Sony Alpha a6400 are the brilliant streaming and video capabilities. Therefore, it is the best camera if you want to stream your pet vlogs live. The most popular mirrorless camera from Sony has a lot to give to pet photographers.
You can record beautiful 4K videos with full pixel readout and binning. The video quality is simply spectacular because it records in super 35mm format. The super slow motion Full HD videos at 120p are also fantastic.
The autofocus boasts contrast and phase detection with 425 autofocus points for each. Similarly, the real-time 4D focus autofocus is the fasted in the world according to Sony. It can accurately track objects moving at an extremely fast rate in just 0.02 seconds.
The 24 megapixels sensor produces almost zero noise at high ISO as well. It helps you highlight your pets by creating beautiful bokeh or background blur.
180° tilt screen enables you to capture stunning images and record remarkable videos. However, 11fps continuous shooting speed works only for images.
Despite having all the above features, a6400 has no built-in image stabilization. That is a glaring omission because all the comparable cameras have this feature.
Sony Alpha a6400 could have been the best camera for pet photography if not for the lack of image stabilization.
Product Test Results
Here are the results of the tests conducted on this camera.
I upgraded from the A6000 to this A6400 and I haven’t looked back. I deal mostly in still photography as a hobby, I am by no means a pro, however if you are looking at this camera I highly recommend it. Picture quality is great, the facial recognition and auto focus are fast and reliable. All of my images are shot with the Sony E-Mount 16-50mm or 55-210mm, and processed in Lightroom.
4. Panasonic Lumix GX85: Best Camera for Dog Photography
Panasonic Lumix GX85 is the camera for you if you are looking for a second and more affordable mirrorless camera to go along with your main camera.
The autofocus is quite good with superb tracking abilities, eye and face detection, Pinpoint, and 49 areas or points. You can also focus using the touchscreen while looking through the electronic viewfinder. However, you would mostly use face and eye detection and tracking for pet photography.
The 16 megapixels Live MOS Micro Four Thirds sensor as well as Venus Engine 9 processor work in tandem to produce sharp, detailed, and beautiful images.
The camera also records 4K videos at 30fps and Full HD at 60fps. Some of the other features of the camera are stop motion animation, USB charging, dual controls, and HDR. Similarly, it has a 3” tilting touchscreen, 4K live crop, built-in flash, and post focus.
The camera has reduced vibration courtesy of the redesigned shutter. Therefore, it is an excellent option for handheld shooting. Furthermore, you won’t have 10fps continuous shooting speed in any other comparable camera.
The image quality of the camera is also impressive despite the 16 megapixels sensor. It is because it doesn’t have a low pass filter allowing more resolving power and thus superior image quality.
The main complaint regarding the camera is its low battery life. Otherwise, it is a perfect camera to take beautiful pictures of your pets.
Product Test Results
Here are the results of the tests conducted on this camera.
Great camera. Does what it says on the box. It’s micro four thirds so sometimes it’s grainy but otherwise it is a great small camera.
I’ve had to send it to Panasonic’s repair depot two times in the first year of ownership. Each time it costs around $50 to ship there (and back). There is no phone support, there is only chat and crummy email.
Both times they have replaced the main board of the camera.
Sample images taken with Panasonic Lumix GX85.
5. Nikon D3500: Best Cheap Camera for Pet Photography
Nikon D3500 is yet another entry-level camera on our list. The DSLR camera has been in use for many years now. Still, it is going strong and can hold its own against newer and more advanced cameras.
The camera has a Guide Mode for beginners and of course, a manual mode for experienced photographers. It also has an optical viewfinder and an LCD that is not touch-enabled. However, some photographers love to use these instead of electronic viewfinders and touchscreens.
The lightweight and compact camera has larger 24 megapixels sensor. Therefore, it delivers superb image quality besides being fairly easy to carry around. The images are crisp and extremely detailed.
The 5fps continuous shooting speed is not the best but that is what you can expect from an old and cheap camera. However, the decent ISO range means you can confidently use it in low light situations.
Another great feature is the Vibration Reduction, allowing you to shoot good handheld images at slower shutter speeds.
Finally, you can also use Nikon’s SnapBridge app to share photos instantly. Besides, it also has good ergonomics.
The lightweight camera with vibration reduction for handheld images is quite suitable for pet photography. It is a nice upgrade from your smartphone and an excellent beginner camera for everyone.
Product Test Results
Here are the results of the tests conducted on this camera.
Nice camera. Takes good pictures. Just takes awhile to figure out that it can do, and how to use the functions.
6. Olympus PEN E-PL10: Best Beginner Camera for Pet Photography
Olympus PEN E-PL10 is an economical mirrorless camera that you can use to take good pictures of your pets. Despite being cheap, it is a very capable camera having features like 3-axis in-body image stabilization. Most of the comparable cameras only have stabilization in their lenses.
Built-in image stabilization enables you to take crisp pictures in the low light or when you are taking handheld shots. The camera also has excellent autofocus but only for still objects. It struggles to focus on moving objects properly.
The best thing about the camera is the superb image quality for both JPEGs and RAW. However, pictures taken in Auto mode may have some saturation.
The 180° titling touchscreen has a brilliant selfie mode for you to take memorable selfies with your pet. You can immediately send your photos to smartphones through Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and OI Share app.
The camera is very easy to use as well. In short, it is the best camera for pet photography in its category.
7. Canon EOS Rebel T8i: Reasonably Priced Camera for Pet Photography
Canon EOS Rebel T8i is a very popular camera due to advanced features like very fast autofocus, 24 megapixels CMOS sensor, and 4K video quality.
The 24 megapixels sensor combines with DIGIC 8 image processer to deliver high quality images in all light conditions. Similarly, the camera is also ideal for pet portraits and shots of the head because of the eye-detection autofocus.
Another nice feature of the camera is the built-in image stabilization. It is necessary to capture pets because they can move unpredictably. Keep in mind that even cameras like Canon Rebel SL3, Canon PowerShot G7X Mark II, and Nikon D3500 don’t have this feature.
The main connectivity option is Wi-Fi. However, it is a breeze to connect the camera with Wi-Fi enabled devices and share your pictures.
The major disadvantage of the Rebel T8i is the lack of weather sealing. Therefore, you cannot use it in wet conditions or harsh elements. It is also quite heavy and it can be a challenge to carry it around.
In general, Canon EOS Rebel T8i has all the features to become a brilliant pet photography camera. It has its shortcomings but its merits vastly outnumber its demerits.
Product Test Results
Here are the results of the tests conducted on this camera.
I’m a beginner and very happy with this camera. I’m still learning the features of a “real” camera and lenses, but am learning fast. I’ve had it almost two weeks. The kit 18-55mm is great for starting out and learning. The editing software from Canon is also great.
8. Fujifilm X-T30: Another Great Mirrorless Camera for Pet Photography
Fujifilm X-T3 was the best overall camera of 2018 and X-T30 is its cheaper version. The former camera is known for its exceptional image quality and the latter offers some of its features at a more affordable price
Both the cameras have 26.1 megapixels APS-C X-Trans BSI CMOS 4 sensor and X-Processor 4 quad-core CPU. Similarly, the hybrid autofocus combines with the above techs to offer outstanding performance without breaking your bank.
Not many cameras in this price range have uncropped 4K video. The HDMI output allows you to record through an external recorder as well.
The images maintain their superior quality even at high ISOs. Just like all other Fujifilm cameras, X-T30 has a wider range of classic “Film Simulations” beside a host of useful color modes.
X-T30 leaves its competitors in the dust when it comes to continuous shooting speed. It can shoot at 8fps with a mechanical shutter and at 20fps with an electronic shutter. Similarly, the 30fps burst mode creates 16 megapixels pictures with a 1.25x crop.
All the good things have some problems and X-T30 is no exception. For example, it does not have in-body image stabilization making it difficult to shoot handheld images. Similarly, lack of weather sealing, poor build quality, and less optimal ergonomics are some of the other problems.
Product Test Results
Here are the results of the tests conducted on this camera.
Does it all. Small, light, brilliant, accurate color under all conditions I have tried – the best carry-along camera to a full size, weighty DSLR. Love it!
Sample images taken with Fujifilm X-T30.
9. Sony a7 III: Best Camera for Puppy Photography
Sony A7 III is a multifunction camera that you can use in a variety of situations, both for images and videos. The 42.4 megapixels sensor and the latest BIONZ X image processor can capture some of the best images you can think of.
The 10fps continuous shooting speed is more than enough for average photographers as well. As compared to its previous version, the camera also has a much improved battery. Therefore, you can keep shooting for long hours (up to 710 shots) without worrying about recharging the battery.
The 693-point autofocus is not only fast but accurate as well. It can easily detect or track even the fastest moving objects in a jiffy.
A7 III records in 4K at multiple framerates as well. The tilting 3” LCD helps you take images from different angles. The handheld shots are also fantastic courtesy of the 5-axis in-body image stabilization. Therefore, you can confidently use any lens that is compatible with Sony a7 III.
Sony A7 III looks like a DSLR but it is, in fact, a mirrorless camera. It is slightly on the high end of the price spectrum and not many people can afford it. But – it will be the best camera for pet photography for those who can splash such a huge amount on a camera.
Product Test Results
Here are the results of the tests conducted on this camera.
Oh my goodness this camera is actually amazing. Only had one day of filming on it but it’s so sharp and nice to use.
Used it with the 50mm and the 24-70mm and it’s a dream.
Highly recommend. It did take a while to get here but I was just too excited.
10. Nikon Z7: Best Camera for Professional Pet Photographers
Finally, we have Nikon Z7 on our list of the best camera for pet photography. With its highly advanced features and high price tag, it is more suitable for professional photographers.
The camera is perfect for pet photography for its great video features and 45 megapixels sensor. The sensor in particular captures highly detailed and sharp pictures of your furry friends. When it comes to videos, the Super35 4K mode produces extremely beautiful videos.
The low light performance and the autofocus of the camera are also terrific. The camera has 5-stops of image stabilization besides a continuous shooting speed of 9 fps.
The compact and lightweight body contain a full-frame sensor. It is also weather-sealed and rugged and therefore, you can use it in all kinds of conditions.
The camera also boasts an electronic viewfinder and a large 3.2” tilting touchscreen. However, the battery life is quite short that is only 330 images per charge.
Arguably, Nikon Z7 is the best camera on our list. It offers some brilliant features at a reasonably good price for a professional. It comes with an excellent sensor and a modern Z-lens mount. However, it is not a good choice if you require better speed and AF tracking performance.
Product Test Results
Here are the results of the tests conducted on this camera.
So let me start by saying this is my first mirrorless. I upgraded from a Nikon D750 to the Nikon Z7. Best decision ever! Focus is spot on, the battery last a good long time in it, the light is easily controlled, and the controls were pretty easy to figure out.
What to Look for in the Best Camera for Pet Photography?
You need to consider a lot of factors while buying a camera for pet photography. The most important of these factors are as below.
Image Stabilization
You cannot always use a tripod while shooting pets. Therefore, you need a camera with excellent image stabilization capabilities. Image stabilization will help you take crisp and sharp images of your pets without any blurs.
Fast Frame Rates
Pets hat to remain still for a long time. They would move unpredictably and that is why your camera should have high continuous shooting speed. High frame rates allow you to capture your pets at their best such as chasing a ball without missing any action. Ideally, you need a camera with at least 10fps to capture most of the movement.
Good Autofocus
You would only be able to track and focus fast moving animals if your camera has good autofocus. By good autofocus, we mean high focus points scattered across the frame, lightning fast autofocusing, and excellent tracking.
Some latest cameras also boast animal eye autofocus, allowing you to take extremely sharp images of your pets. Similarly, such cameras also take brilliant portraits of the pets without needing you to move autofocus points.
A Good Zoom Range
A camera with a good zoom range is essential for effective pet photography. You sometimes need to shoot them from a distance, especially if you want more natural photographs. Look out for models with a high zoom range if you are buying a camera with a fixed lens. In the case of cameras with interchangeable lenses, choose the one with a wide variety of lenses.
An Adjustable or Tilting Screen
Sometimes, you have to get to the pet’s level to take more natural images. An adjustable screen enables you to accomplish this task without scrabbling around on the floor. A tilting screen enables the camera to shoot from a very low or high angle by quickly popping up and down, depending on the situation. A fully articulating screen takes much longer to get into position.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best camera for photographing pets?
We recommend both Sony A7 III and Nikon Z7 if you are a professional photographer. Similarly, both Sony A7 IV and Canon R6 deliver excellent image quality besides having unique animal-eye autofocus modes.
2. How do I take great pictures of pets?
It is better to put some distance between you and your pet using a longer telephoto lens. You don’t want your pet to be conscious of your presence which will simply ruin the originality of the situation.
3. What type of camera should I get for pet photography?
You should try to buy a mirrorless camera for pet photography in 2022.
Final Thoughts
Concluding our guide to the best camera for pet photography, we can confidently declare Nikon Z7 as the winner while Sony a7 III finishes on the close second. We also hope you are in a better position to buy a pet photography camera after reading our guide. We have tried to cover both the cheap and expensive cameras to cater to the needs of everyone.