Best Cameras for Bird Photography (2024)

Few experiences can match the thrill of spotting an elusive bird species. But you know what’s even better? Having your camera ready to capture that moment forever.

Snagging that perfect bird photo takes more than just patience and a sharp eye—it requires the right camera.

Whether you’re a beginner on the hunt for budget-friendly gear to start your bird photography journey or a seasoned pro looking for top-tier models that can deliver publication-worthy images, we’ve got the scoop on the best cameras for you.

Contents

1. How we picked the best cameras for bird photography
2. Sony Alpha 1
3. Canon EOS R3
4. Nikon D850
5. Canon EOS R5
6. Olympus OM-D E-M1X
7. Sony Alpha 7R III
8. Nikon D7500
9. Sony Alpha 6400
10. Canon EOS Rebel T8i
11. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
12. What to look for when shopping for the best camera for bird photography
13. How many megapixels do you need for bird photography?
14. Are DSLR cameras good for bird photography?
15. Is mirrorless better than DSLR for bird photography?
16. Is a full-frame camera better for bird photography?
17. How to choose the best camera for bird photography for YOU

SPECIFICATIONS

• Body Type: Mirrorless
• Sensor: Full-frame CMOS (35.9 x 24 mm)
• Effective Megapixels: 50.1
• Autofocus Points: 759 (in-phase detection)
• Continuous Shooting Burst Rate: 30 fps
• Buffer: 155 compressed RAW frames or 165 JPEGs at 30 fps
• Image Stabilization: Yes
• ISO Sensitivity: 100-32,000 (expands to 50-102,400)
• Weight: 1.6 lbs (with battery and memory card)
• Price Range: $$$

WHAT WE THINK

The Sony Alpha 1 isn’t just a camera; it’s a bird photography juggernaut that’s quickly becoming the gold standard in the field. Packing a whopping 50.1MP Exmor RS full-frame sensor and powered by the BIONZ XR engine, this camera is all about delivering mind-blowing image quality and processing speed.

But the Alpha 1 isn’t just about megapixels and fancy tech. With sensitivity that cranks up to ISO 102400 and a 15-stop dynamic range, this camera laughs in the face of low-light challenges. Combine that with the ability to shoot at a lightning-fast 30 fps while maintaining phase-detection autofocus, and you’ve got yourself a tool that can nail those elusive, fast-moving birds with surgical precision. Plus, the lossless compressed raw files give you all the room you need for post-processing magic.

It’s no wonder the Alpha 1 is winning over pros, including many who’ve ditched their Canon or Nikon gear for this beauty. It keeps the familiar feel of Sony’s other full-frame mirrorless cameras, so it’s intuitive and comfortable, even if you’re upgrading from an earlier model. Sony basically took the best bits from the A9 Mark II, A7S Mark III, and A7R Mark IV, sprinkled in 8K video capabilities just because, and wrapped it all up in a camera that’s nothing short of phenomenal for bird photography.

With all these cutting-edge features packed into one sleek body, it’s easy to see why the Alpha 1 is hailed by many as the best mirrorless camera on the market today.

BEST PRICES

SPECIFICATIONS

• Body Type: Mirrorless
• Sensor: Full-frame CMOS (36.0 x 24.0 mm)
• Effective Megapixels: 24.1
• Autofocus Points:1053
• Continuous Shooting Burst Rate:~30 fps with electronic shutter and up to 12 fps with mechanical shutter
• Buffer: 540 JPEG or 140 RAW files at 30 fps
• Image Stabilization: Yes
• ISO Sensitivity: 100-102,400 (expands to 204,800)
• Weight: 1.81 lbs (camera body only), 2.2 lbs (incl. battery and memory card)
• Price Range:$$$

The Canon EOS R3, powered by the DIGIC X Image Processor, is like the overachiever in the mirrorless camera world—pushing the limits and making it look easy.

At its heart is a back-illuminated stacked 24.1MP full-frame CMOS sensor, which translates to lightning-fast readout speeds and a significant reduction in that pesky “rolling shutter” effect. This means cleaner low-light shots and the ability to capture true 14-bit RAW files, even in electronic shutter mode. Oh, and did we mention it’s surprisingly lightweight for a camera of its size? Because it is, making it all the easier to lug around on those all-day birding expeditions.

But where the R3 really flexes is in its burst mode—blazing fast and ready to capture every wing beat, tail flick, or curious head tilt without breaking a sweat.

The R3 brings together the rugged durability of the EOS-1D series and the advanced features of the EOS R5, creating a camera that doesn’t just stand out—it pretty much stands alone in its class. If you’re looking for a mirrorless powerhouse that’s as tough as it is sophisticated, the EOS R3 should be at the top of your list.

BEST PRICES

SPECIFICATIONS

• Body Type: DSLR
• Sensor: Full-frame CMOS (35.9 x 23.9 mm)
• Effective Megapixels: 45.7
• Autofocus Points: 153 (99 cross-type)
• Continuous Shooting Burst Rate: 7 fps (9 fps with a grip)
• Buffer: 51-54 fps of 14-bit RAW files with lossless compression
• Image Stabilization: No
• ISO Sensitivity: 64-25,600 (expands to 32-102,400)
• Weight: 2.02 lbs (camera body only)
• Price Range: $$$

With 45.7MP imaging and uncropped 4K 30p video, it’s hard not to love what this camera offers in terms of detail and versatility. It’s a beast when it comes to capturing stunning, high-resolution shots.

But here’s the rub: the D850’s relatively slow 7 frames per second in continuous shooting mode, paired with a buffer that maxes out at 51 RAW frames, can be a bit of a bummer when you’re trying to nail those split-second moments, like a bird darting through the sky. Compared to cameras that can fire off double the frames per second, you might end up with fewer “keepers” when shooting fast-moving subjects.

That said, don’t let that scare you off. The D850 is still a heavyweight contender in the camera world, holding its own against the competition with ease. If you can work around the slightly slower burst speed, this camera is more than capable of delivering incredible results.

BEST PRICES

SPECIFICATIONS

• Body Type: Mirrorless
• Sensor: Full-frame CMOS (36 x 24 mm)
• Effective Megapixels: 45
• Autofocus Points:1,053
• Continuous Shooting Burst Rate: 12 fps (mechanical shutter), 20 fps (electronic shutter)
• Buffer: 182 RAW images at 12 fps
• Image Stabilization: Yes
• ISO Sensitivity: 100-51,200 (expands to 102,400)
• Weight: 1.62 lbs (incl. battery and memory card)
• Price Range: $$

But it’s not just about the megapixels. The R5’s blazing 20 fps speed is perfect for freezing those split-second moments when birds take flight, making sure you don’t miss a beat (or a wing flap). The Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system, turbocharged with Deep Learning technology, nails focus on fast-moving subjects like it’s got a sixth sense.

And let’s not forget the five-axis sensor-shift image stabilization, which keeps your shots sharp and steady even when conditions are less than ideal. Whether you’re shooting in low light or battling the elements, the R5 has your back.

All these high-end features come wrapped in a familiar yet refined design that makes the R5 a true game-changer, seamlessly blending speed, resolution, and precision focus. Though it’s technically considered mid-range, it punches well above its weight, delivering pro-level performance at a price that won’t require selling a kidney.

It’s no wonder so many pros are adding this gem to their gear bag. The R5 is simply a powerhouse that does it all, and does it exceptionally well.

BEST PRICES

SPECIFICATIONS

• Body Type: Mirrorless
• Sensor: Live MOS Micro Four Thirds (17.4 x 13 mm)
• Effective Megapixels: 20.4
• Autofocus Points: 121 (cross-type)
• Continuous Shooting Burst Rate: 60 fps
• Buffer: 49 RAW frames and 49 JPEG frames at 60 fps
• Image Stabilization: Yes
• ISO Sensitivity: 200-25,600 (expands to 64)
• Weight: 2.20 lbs (incl. batteries)
• Price Range: $$

WHAT WE THINK

The Olympus OM-D E-M1X is all about reliability, speed, and versatility.

Its 20.4MP Live MOS sensor and dual TruePic VIII image processors allow for quick continuous shooting, and with a sensitivity range up to ISO 25600 and a sophisticated 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization system, you can expect sharp images even in challenging conditions.

The camera also features on-chip phase-detection points and contrast-detection areas for fast and precise focusing.

Its integrated vertical grip – the first of its kind in a Micro Four Thirds camera – makes for improved ergonomics and handling, whether you’re shooting horizontally or vertically.

Overall, we’re very impressed with this camera, especially considering the affordable zoom lens options from Olympus that you can pair with it for a fantastic bird photography kit.

BEST PRICES

SPECIFICATIONS

• Body Type: Mirrorless
• Sensor: Full-frame Exmor R CMOS sensor (35.9 x 24.0 mm)
• Effective Megapixels: 42.4
• Autofocus Points: 399 (phase-detection), 425 (contrast)
• Continuous Shooting Burst Rate: 10 fps
• Buffer: 76 Large/Extra Fine JPEGs, 28 uncompressed RAW images, and 28 for uncompressed RAW + Large/Extra Fine JPEGs
• Image Stabilization: Yes
• ISO Sensitivity: 100–32,000 (expandable to 50-102,400)
• Weight: 1.45 lbs (incl. battery and memory card)
• Price Range: $$

WHAT WE THINK

​The Sony Alpha 7R III is a top-tier pick for bird photography, delivering the kind of image quality that makes even the most elusive feathered friends look like they’re ready for their close-up. With a 42.4MP sensor, this camera captures every tiny detail, from the texture of a bird’s feathers to the glint in its eye.

When it comes to speed, the Alpha 7R III doesn’t disappoint. It shoots at 10fps, and its autofocus system—with a whopping 399 phase-detection and 425 contrast AF points—means you’ll be ready for action, no matter how fast your subject is. Whether it’s a hawk diving for prey or a hummingbird flitting from flower to flower, this camera has the chops to keep up.

The broad dynamic range and adjustable ISO sensitivity offer the kind of flexibility you need for those golden hours when light is either just waking up or starting to fade. Early mornings or late evenings, when the light can be tricky, are no longer a challenge.

Add in the 5-axis in-body image stabilization and the Pixel Shift Multi Shooting feature, and you’ve got a recipe for high-resolution, blur-free shots that’ll make your portfolio sing.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting to spread your wings in bird photography, the Alpha 7R III is a trusty companion for capturing those breathtaking avian moments.

BEST PRICES

SPECIFICATIONS

• Body Type: DSLR
• Sensor: DX-Format CMOS (Crop Factor: 1.5x)
• Effective Megapixels: 20.9
• Autofocus Points: 51
• Continuous Shooting Burst Rate: 8 fps
• Buffer: 50-100 Raw files depending on the bit depth and compression settings. For JPEGs, the buffer can accommodate up to 100 images.
• Image Stabilization: No, but some Nikon lenses that can be used with the D7500 come with Vibration Reduction
• ISO Sensitivity: 100-51,200, Expanded ISO 1,640,000
• Weight: 1.41 lbs (body only)
• Price Range: $

WHAT WE THINK

The Nikon D7500 is a bit of a dark horse in the bird photography world, quietly delivering everything you need without making a fuss—or a huge dent in your wallet. With its 20.9MP CMOS sensor and EXPEED 5 image processor, this camera churns out sharp, detailed images that’ll make your feathered subjects look like they’re about to take flight right out of your screen. And let’s talk about that ISO range—it’s like having night vision for those early morning or late evening shoots when the light is playing hard to get.

Built to survive the wild (or at least your local park), the D7500’s durable design can handle the bumps and scrapes of outdoor photography. The tilting rear touchscreen is a sweet bonus, giving you the freedom to get creative with your shots—because sometimes the best angle is the one you didn’t think you could reach.

For bird photographers looking for a camera that’s got the goods without the hefty price tag, the D7500 is a fantastic choice. It’s reliable, it’s versatile, and it’s not going to make you choose between a new lens or paying the rent. In short, it’s the perfect sidekick for anyone looking to dive into bird photography without diving into debt.

BEST PRICES

SPECIFICATIONS

• Body Type: Mirrorless
• Sensor: APS-C CMOS (23.5 x 15.6 mm) (Crop Factor: 1.5x)
• Effective Megapixels: 24.2
• Autofocus Points: 425 (phase- and contrast-detect)
• Continuous Shooting Burst Rate: 11 fps
• Buffer: Can maintain its top speed for 46 RAW+JPEG, 49 RAW, or 114 JPEG shots
• Image Stabilization: No, but there are a number of Sony e-mount lenses available that do include image stabilization
• ISO Sensitivity: 100-32,000 (expandable to 102,400)
• Weight: 0.89 lbs (with battery and memory card included)
• Price Range: $

The ISO sensitivity range is nothing short of impressive, meaning you can shoot in all kinds of lighting—whether the sun’s barely up or you’re chasing that last bit of daylight.

Now, let’s talk about the 4D FOCUS system. It’s fast, it’s precise, and it’s like having a personal assistant who never misses a beat. Quick-moving birds? No problem. The a6400 locks onto them like it’s got birding radar.

The body design is practical and easy to handle, with a flexible LCD touchscreen that makes getting those tricky angles feel effortless. Whether you’re shooting from the ground, over your head, or somewhere in between, this camera adapts right along with you.

Packed with all the right features, the Sony a6400 is a solid companion for bird enthusiasts. It meets the unique demands of bird photography without the bulk or complexity of higher-end models, making it a go-to choice whether you’re just starting out or looking to add a versatile tool to your kit.

BEST PRICES

SPECIFICATIONS

• Body Type: DSLR
• Sensor: APS-C CMOS (22.3 x 14.9 mm) (Crop Factor: 1.6x)
• Effective Megapixels: 24.1
• Autofocus Points: 45 (all cross-type phase-detect)
• Continuous Shooting Burst Rate: 7 fps
• Buffer: 170 JPEG Fine images in a single burst and up to 40 images when shooting in RAW format
• Image Stabilization: It does not have in-body image stabilization; however, many Canon lenses, including the 18-55mm kit lens often paired with the T8i, do come with built-in optical image stabilization. Additionally, the T8i offers electronic image stabilization for video, but this feature is not available for stills
• ISO Sensitivity: 100-25,600
• Weight: 1.13 lbs (incl. battery, recording media)
• Price Range: $

The autofocus systems on this camera are no joke. The Dual Pixel CMOS AF and 45-point all-cross-type phase-detection system make tracking those zippy little birds a breeze. Whether they’re darting through the trees or perched high above, the Rebel T8i locks on and doesn’t let go.

And let’s not overlook the user-friendly perks. The touchscreen LCD is a dream for quick adjustments and shooting from creative angles, while the connectivity features make sharing your shots or controlling the camera remotely as easy as pie. Plus, with great battery life, you can spend more time focusing on your next shot and less time worrying about recharging.

We’re big fans of the Rebel T8i, especially for beginners. It’s one of the best entry-level cameras out there for folks looking to get into bird photography without breaking the bank. It’s affordable, capable, and user-friendly—making it the perfect way to dip your toes into wildlife photography while keeping your budget intact.

BEST PRICES

SPECIFICATIONS

• Body Type: Mirrorless
• Sensor: Live MOS Micro Four Thirds (17.3 x 13.0 mm)
• Effective Megapixels: 20.3
• Autofocus Points: 121
• Continuous Shooting Burst Rate: 15 fps
• Buffer: Continuous shooting of up to 150 ORF (Olympus Raw Format) images at 10 fps with a mechanical shutter. The buffer can hold about 30 photos before the camera slows down, but it clears in about 6 seconds when using a UHS-II card. In high settings, its buffer depth provides 42 RAW images and virtually unlimited RAW images in low settings.
• Image Stabilization: Yes
• ISO Sensitivity: LOW (approx. 100)-25,600
• Weight: 0.84 lbs (incl. battery and memory card)
• Price Range: $

The Micro Four Thirds sensor, combined with the ability to swap out lenses, gives you the kind of flexibility that’s perfect for adapting to different birding scenarios. And the camera’s user-friendly and responsive interface makes it a breeze to navigate, so you can focus more on your shot and less on fumbling with settings.

Its SLR-styled body is not only attractive but also solidly built, making it durable enough for all your outdoor adventures. Despite its compact size, it feels robust and ready to go wherever your birding takes you.

Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been snapping bird shots for years, the E-M10 Mark IV is a dependable and versatile choice. It’s an excellent companion for capturing those perfect bird moments, fitting right into the sweet spot between ease of use and powerful performance.

BEST PRICES

Choosing the right camera for bird photography can feel a bit daunting. We’re here to help ease the process a bit.

From sensor size to autofocus systems, continuous shooting rates to ISO sensitivity, each aspect plays a critical role in capturing those breathtaking shots of our feathered friends.

Let’s dive in and uncover what makes a camera truly “fly” in the realm of bird photography:

1. Sensor Size and Resolution: A bigger sensor captures more light, ensuring top-notch image quality even in low-light situations.
2. Autofocus System: To capture those quick and unpredictable bird movements, a fast and accurate autofocus system is a must.
3. Frames Per Second (FPS): Increase your chances of capturing the perfect moment with a high FPS rate.
4. Durability and Weatherproofing: As outdoor shooting is common in bird photography, a robust and weather-sealed camera is a must.

Remember, the best camera for you depends on your needs, budget, and experience level. We’ll discuss how to choose the right camera for YOU a little further down.

Photo: Jaymi Heimbuch

This is a question worthy of hot debate.

In general, most photographers find that a camera with at least 18 megapixels is plenty for bird photography. But again, it all depends on your personal requirements and how you plan to use your images.

The more megapixels, the more information you have to work with. If you can’t get close to a bird and it’s small in the frame, having plenty of megapixels makes it easier to crop in during post-processing and still have a nice, big final image.

Sometimes photographers get wrapped up in megapixel envy, upgrading every time a new camera with more megapixels comes out. Just remember: another way to get nice, tight bird images is to use your feet and some naturalist strategy.

As long as your camera has in the neighborhood of 18 megapixels or more, you’re good to go. Focus on skill and strategy, with megapixels being a helpful ingredient.

The takeaway: while megapixels are important, they’re just one aspect of what makes a great bird photography camera. Other factors like the autofocus system and frames-per-second rate also play a significant role in capturing stunning bird images.

Photo: Jaymi Heimbuch

In short, yes. Both DSLR and mirrorless cameras are great for bird photography.

(They’re both definitely better than any superzoom camera since interchangeable lenses and fast focusing are critical for serious bird photography.)

It’s really all about finding a camera that fits your requirements and shooting style.

So with that in mind, let’s reframe the question:

The question of whether a mirrorless camera is better than a DSLR for bird photography is interesting because it really depends on your specific needs and preferences. Both types of cameras have their strengths and can be excellent choices for bird photography.

Mirrorless cameras have made significant strides in recent years, particularly in terms of autofocus speed, which is essential when capturing sharp images of birds. Many mirrorless models also offer superior AF tracking systems, making them particularly effective for photographing birds in flight.

However, mirrorless cameras do have some drawbacks. For instance, they generally have shorter battery life than DSLRs and also require a longer boot-up time.

On the other hand, DSLRs are traditionally favored for their robustness and longer battery life. They also often provide a more extensive selection of lenses, which can be beneficial depending on the type of bird photography you’re interested in.

So, whether a mirrorless camera is “better” than a DSLR for bird photography can largely depend on the photographer’s personal preferences and requirements.

Photo: Jaymi Heimbuch

Choosing between a full-frame or crop sensor camera is tough – each has its unique features and advantages!

Choosing the right camera body for bird photography isn’t as straightforward as picking out a bird feeder camera for your backyard (though that’s a fun project too!). When it comes to capturing great bird images, the stakes are higher, and the decision is a bit more nuanced. Here’s what you should keep in mind as you navigate the options:

Performance

How does the camera hold up in the real world? Pay close attention to autofocus speed, high-ISO performance, and frames-per-second rates—these are key for snapping those fleeting bird moments. Also, consider the maximum shutter speed. Most modern cameras offer plenty of speed to freeze movement, but it’s worth double-checking if you’re going after those razor-sharp in-flight shots.

Budget

How deep are your pockets? Bird photography gear can get pricey fast, but remember: the best camera is the one you can afford and feel comfortable using. You don’t need to sell a kidney to get started—just make sure whatever you pick fits within your budget and meets your essential needs.

Ease of Use

Bird photography can be demanding. When your subject could take off at any moment, you need a camera that’s intuitive and easy to handle. Think about how the camera fits in your hands, the layout of buttons, and whether the controls are easy to operate when you’re in a hurry. Comfort and ease of use are critical, especially when you need to react quickly.

Future-Proofing

Are you in this for the long haul? If you’re serious about bird photography and plan to level up your skills, it’s wise to invest in a camera that can grow with you. A higher-end model might be a bigger upfront investment, but it can save you from having to upgrade sooner than you’d like.

Compatibility

Already own some solid gear? Make sure your new camera body is compatible with your existing lenses and accessories, or check if a lens mount adapter is available. This can save you a lot of money and frustration since you won’t have to replace all your gear.

Weight and Size

Fieldwork is part of the game in bird photography, so think about how much gear you’re willing to lug around. A lightweight, compact camera can be a game-changer, especially if you’re trekking to remote locations or doing a lot of hand-held shooting. Remember, the weight of your camera and lens adds up quickly when you’re trying to hold steady for those perfect shots.

At the end of the day, your camera should feel like an extension of your vision.

There’s a vast array of choices out there, but the best camera truly is the one that aligns with your specific needs, budget, and style.