Food photography has become extremely popular online, especially on Instagram. Professional photographers who want to take pictures of food often look for the best camera options for their needs. Daniel Doyle Pleasantville shares the criteria you should look for when searching for a camera for food photography and lists some of the best options on the market today.
Sensor Size
One of the most important points to consider when buying a camera for food photography is sensor size. You have the option of choosing a camera with a cropped sensor or a full-frame sensor. Your budget may determine which option you choose. Cropped sensors are most often found on point-and-shoot consumer cameras. You can take good pictures with a cropped sensor camera, but if you are a professional, it may be a better idea to go with a full-frame camera. This means that your uncropped photo will have the same dimensions as a 35mm film camera.
File Size
Food bloggers most frequently use their images online, so the file size is not as important. However, if you plan to do any work in print like in a cookbook or magazine, you should go for a camera with a larger file size. Make sure that the image is at least 3000 pixels and can shoot RAW files. Unlike JPG files, a RAW file does not lose any of its quality when it is edited.
ISO Level
You will also want to consider the ISO level, or the level of noise which is included in each image. Be sure that your camera can handle taking images at different levels of ISO without causing a degraded image.
Best Cameras for Food Photography
Daniel Doyle Pleasantville has assembled a list of the best cameras by price range. It is possible to buy a good camera for food bloggers and Instagram influencers under $500.
Canon Rebel T6i
This camera is a great starter option. You can buy it as a kit with an 18-55 mm zoom lens, or you can buy the lens separately. In that case, the 50mm lense is recommended. This camera has a 24-megapixel sensor with 12,800 ISO.
Nikon D3400
This is another excellent entry-level DSLR camera with a 24-megapixel sensor. While it does not have Wi-Fi, it does have Bluetooth.
Canon 6D
This is one of the lowest-priced full-frame cameras, but you get a lot for your money. It is a great camera to use in low-light or natural light settings. It can go up to 25,600 ISO.
Canon 5D Mark IV
This is one of the most popular options for the professional food photographer. It is a versatile camera with the ability to shoot in low light as well as having excellent sensors and ISO.
Nikon D810
The Nikon has a 36.3 megapixel sensor. It does not have wireless connectivity, but it has better battery life than the Canon 5D Mark IV.
Getting Started in Food Photography
With any one of these cameras, a beginner can get started with food photography. Daniel Doyle Pleasantville recommends becoming a food photographer because it is a fun hobby that can be turned into a profitable business
