Last updated on December 7th, 2023
Birding is a great way to get outside and enjoy nature, but knowing which camera is right for you can take time and effort.
With all the different camera options on the market, it can take time to know which one is right for you. Do you need a digital SLR? What about a point-and-shoot? And what’s the difference between a megapixel and an image sensor?
We’ve got you covered. Our list of the 10 best cameras for birding will help make your decision easier. You’re covered whether you’re looking for a high-end DSLR or something more affordable.
Overall Best Camera for Birding
Sony a1
If you’re an avid birder, you know that having a good camera is essential for taking pictures of your feathered friends. And while there are a lot of great cameras on the market, the Sony a1 is the best for birding.
The first thing you’ll notice about the Sony a1 is its 50.1-megapixel sensor. This gives you incredible detail and color reproduction, making it easy to capture even the most minor details in your photos.
But it’s not just about megapixels. This Sony camera also has an impressive autofocus system that can easily track moving subjects. This is perfect for when you’re trying to get that perfect shot of a bird in flight! And if you need even more speed, the Sony a1 can shoot up to 30 frames per second without losing detail.
Another critical consideration for birding photography is image stabilization. That’s why the Sony a1 comes with built-in 5-axis image stabilization. This will help keep your photos sharp, even if your hands are slightly shaky.
Last, the Sony a1 is weather-sealed, so you don’t have to worry about taking it out in inclement weather. This is perfect for when you’re out birding in all kinds of conditions!
What We Like/Dislike About the Sony a1
Like:
- Captures incredible detail
- Blisteringly fast AF
- Super-speedy burst shooting
Dislike:
- Expensive
- Overkill for most
What Consumers Are Saying
“The Sony a1 camera is amazing! The pictures come out so clear, and the colors are so vivid!”
“I never knew that a camera could be so easy to use! The Sony a1 makes taking pictures so much fun!”
“The Sony a1 has quickly become my favorite camera! It’s easy to use, and the pictures always turn out great!”
![Canon DSLR Camera [EOS 90D] with 18-135 is USM Lens | Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, 4K Video, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, and 3.0 Inch Vari-Angle Touch LCD Screen, Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51kgWN2UO6L._SL500_.jpg "Canon DSLR Camera [EOS 90D] with 18-135 is USM Lens | Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, 4K Video, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, and 3.0 Inch Vari-Angle Touch LCD Screen, Black")
Best Budget Camera for Birding
Canon EOS 90D
If you’re looking for a camera that won’t break the bank but will still allow you to take fantastic bird photos, the Canon EOS 90D might be the perfect option.
The Canon EOS 90D is a budget-friendly DSLR camera that ticks all the boxes for an amateur birder. It has a 32.5-megapixel CMOS sensor and a DIGIC 8 image processor that allows it to capture stunningly detailed photos and 4K videos at up to 30fps. It also has an impressive 45-point all-cross-type autofocus system, perfect for tracking birds in flight. And with its 100-6400 ISO range, you’ll be able to take pictures in low-light conditions without any problems.
Moreover, the Canon EOS 90D is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around when you’re out birding. And if you’re new to DSLR photography, don’t worry—the Canon EOS 90D is easy to use, even for beginners. Trust us; this budget-friendly DSLR camera will not disappoint.
No camera is perfect, and there are a few potential drawbacks to consider before purchasing the Canon EOS 90D. First, it’s worth noting that this camera is not weather-sealed, so if you’re planning on doing any birding in wet or dusty conditions, you’ll need to protect your camera accordingly.
What We Like/Dislike About the Canon EOS 90D
Like:
- Optical viewfinder
- Size
- Vari-angle touchscreen
- Uncropped 4K
Dislike:
- No image stabilization
- Single memory card slot
What Consumers Are Saying
“The Canon EOS 90D is a powerful and versatile camera that offers great features for amateur and professional photographers.”
“With its impressive image quality, fast shooting speeds, and great autofocus system, the Canon EOS 90D is sure to please photographers of all levels.”
“The Canon EOS 90D is a great camera for anyone who wants to take their photography skills to the next level.”
Runner Up Best Camera for Birding
Sony a7R IV
The Sony a7R IV is a high-resolution mirrorless camera with incredible autofocus capabilities. It’s perfect for birding because it lets you capture sharp images of even fast-moving birds. The autofocus system keeps up with even the most erratic birds, and the eye-tracking technology ensures that your subject is always focused.
The Sony a7R IV packs in an impressive 61 megapixels of resolution, which is overkill for most applications but can be handy when trying to crop in tightly on distant subjects. It also features an improved autofocus system over its predecessor, the a7R III, with faster acquisition times and better tracking performance. Add in a 10fps continuous shooting rate, and you’ve got a camera capable of freezing even the quickest wingbeats.
But perhaps the most impressive feature of the Sony a7R IV is its 4K/30p video recording capabilities. You can capture amazing still images while birding. Still, it also opens up the possibility of using your camera to record incredible HD video footage of your feathered friends in their natural habitat, which would have been impossible with previous generations of DSLRs.
What We Like/Dislike About the Sony a7R IV
Like:
- 60.2MP full-frame imaging
- 10fps Raw capture
- Real-Time Tracking autofocus
- 5-axis image stabilization
Dislike:
- Big file sizes
- Expensive
What Consumers Are Saying
“The Sony a7R IV is a powerhouse camera that offers amazing features and performance.”
“The Sony a7R IV is the perfect camera for professional photographers and enthusiasts alike.”
“The Sony a7R IV sets the new standard for full-frame cameras.”
Honorable Mentions
Nikon D500
The Nikon D500 is an excellent camera for birding. By most accounts, it’s the best camera in its class. The autofocus system on the Nikon D500 is nothing short of amazing. It’s incredibly accurate, even in low light, and it tracks moving subjects very well. This is important for birding, as many birds are in constant motion. The autofocus system on the Nikon D500 will help you get sharp photos of birds in flight, which can be challenging.
In terms of image quality, the Nikon D500 produces images that are simply stunning. The colors are accurate and vibrant, and the detail is incredible. The low-light performance is also impressive; noise is well controlled at high ISO settings. This is important for birding, as you’ll often be shooting in low-light conditions.
Finally, the Nikon D500 is just a joy to use. It’s small and lightweight yet packed with features. The controls are well laid out and easy to use. And the menu system is straightforward to navigate. And the battery life is excellent. You’ll have a camera that’s a pleasure to use, which is essential when you’re out birding all day.
What We Like/Dislike About the Nikon D500
Like:
- Superb image quality
- Great high ISO performance
- Rugged
- Comfortable camera body
- Sharp articulating touchscreen display
Dislike:
- 4K UHD video cropped
- No built-in flash
- It still uses contrast-detect for Live View AF
What Consumers Are Saying
“The Nikon D500 is an extremely versatile and powerful camera that can handle any situation.”
“The Nikon D500 is the perfect camera for advanced shooters who need a powerful yet portable camera.”
“The Nikon D500 is one of the best DSLRs on the market, and it’s perfect for shooters who need a lot of flexibility.”
Canon EOS R6
The EOS R6’s autofocus system is one of its most impressive features. With 5679 phase detection autofocus points covering almost the entire frame, the R6 can quickly lock onto a bird in flight. Canon’s latest firmware update has made the R6 even better at tracking birds in flight, with new algorithms that result in more accurate tracking.
In addition to its excellent autofocus system, the EOS R6 also features a 20.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor. This high-resolution sensor allows you to capture stunningly sharp images and provides ample headroom for cropping and post-processing. Combined with Canon’s excellent EF lenses, the EOS R6 can capture stunningly detailed images of even fast-moving birds.
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a camera for birding is battery life. After all, you don’t want to miss that perfect shot because your battery died! With the Canon EOS R6, you’ll have no such worries. This camera boasts an impressive battery life of over 700 shots per charge, so you can rest assured that you’ll be able to snap away to your heart’s content.
What We Like/Dislike About the Canon EOS R6
Like:
- Best-in-class autofocus
- Excellent full-frame IBIS
Dislike:
- 4K video recording limitations
What Consumers Are Saying
“Canon has hit another one out of the park with the Canon EOS R6!”
“The Canon EOS R6 is by far the best camera I have ever used, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to improve their photography skills!”
“The Canon EOS R6 is a great camera for anyone looking to get into photography.”
Nikon D850
The Nikon D850 is packed with features that make it an excellent choice for birding. A sound autofocus system is one of the essential features of birding photography, and the Nikon D850 doesn’t disappoint. It uses 153 focus points to lock onto birds in flight, meaning you’ll be able to capture sharp images even if the bird is moving around a lot. The autofocus system is also high-speed, so you won’t miss a shot because the camera can’t keep up with the bird’s movements.
Another vital consideration for birding photography is the size of the image sensor. The 45.7-megapixel FX-format sensor is capable of producing stunningly detailed images. The Nikon D850 has a full-frame image sensor that measures 36 x 24mm, larger than most other DSLR cameras on the market. This means that it can let in more light, which is ideal for taking pictures of birds in low-light conditions. The large image sensor also allows you to print your photos at a larger size without losing any quality.
What We Like/Dislike About the Nikon D850
Like:
- Large and detailed images
- Sophisticated AF system
- Large viewfinder
- 19.4MP DX crop mode
- Great battery life
Dislike:
- Expensive
What Consumers Are Saying
“With its 45.7-megapixel sensor and impressive 8K time-lapse recording capabilities, the Nikon D850 is one of the most advanced DSLRs on the market today.”
“The Nikon D850 is a powerful camera that offers many features for shooters of all levels.”
“The Nikon D850 is an amazing camera that has completely redefined what a DSLR can do.”
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is famous for bird photography thanks to its impressive autofocus system, 30.4-megapixel full-frame sensor, and 4K video recording capabilities.
ISO performance is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a bird photography camera. The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV boasts an impressive ISO range of 100-32000, which you can expand to an even greater range of 50-102400. This allows you to shoot in low light conditions without having to worry about image quality suffering as a result.
Another critical factor to consider when choosing a camera for bird photography is the autofocus system. The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV comes equipped with a 61-point High-Density Reticular AF system that offers excellent coverage and tracking performance. This makes it easy to keep your subject focused, even when they’re moving around a lot.
Of course, image quality is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a camera. The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV offers stunning image quality thanks to its 30.4-megapixel full-frame sensor. This gives you plenty of detail and resolution, making it easy to crop or zoom in on your images without losing quality.
What We Like/Dislike About the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Like:
- Touchscreen
- Advanced AF system
- Excellent sensor performance
- 7fps burst shooting
- Wifi
Dislike:
- 4k limits
- Same ISO as previous models
What Consumers Are Saying
“The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a powerful camera that offers features and performance that can appeal to a wide range of photographers.”
“The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a competent camera that should appeal to enthusiast and professional photographers alike.”
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is Canon’s most advanced DSLR to date, offering excellent image quality and a wide range of features.”
Fujifilm X-S10
One of the first things you’ll notice about the Fujifilm X-S10 is that it’s smaller and lighter than most DSLR cameras on the market. That’s a huge plus when you’re out birding all day; the last thing you want is a bulky camera that weighs you down. The X-S10 is also designed to be easy to hold and operate with one hand, so you can keep your binoculars handy for when that rare bird finally appears.
Another feature that makes the Fujifilm X-S10 ideal for birding is its image stabilization. Even if your hands are shaky or the wind starts to pick up, you can rest assured that your photos will come out crisp and clear. That’s thanks to Fujifilm’s in-body 5-axis image stabilization, which compensates for camera shake in five different directions.
Finally, the autofocus on the Fujifilm X-S10 is lightning fast, so you’ll never miss a moment when trying to capture a photo of a bird in flight. And with face and eye detection, you can be sure that your feathered friend will always be in focus – no matter how fast they’re moving.
What We Like/Dislike About the Fujifilm X-S10
Like:
- Proven APS-C sensor
- IBIS
- Large grip
- Excellent Video
Dislike:
- No weather-proofing
- Limited touchscreen
What Consumers Are Saying
“The X-S10 is a powerful camera that takes stunning photos.”
“This camera is perfect for anyone who wants to start photography as a hobby.”
“The X-S10 has quickly become one of my favorite cameras.”
Nikon D7200
The Nikon D7200 sports a 24.2MP DX-format CMOS sensor that’s notable for its lack of an optical low pass filter (OLPF). The removal of the OLPF results in sharper images with more detail and less noise. And when it comes to image quality, every little bit helps.
Another big plus for the D7200 is its EXPEED 4 image processor. This powerful image processor enables fast performance and high ISO Sensitivity, which is excellent news for birders who often shoot in low-light situations. With a native ISO range of 100-25600 (expandable to 51,200), the D7200 allows you to capture sharp, detailed images even in dim lighting conditions.
Another important consideration when choosing a camera for birding is portability. You want a light camera to carry around with you on hikes and nature walks. The Nikon D7200 is lightweight and easy to carry, so you can take it wherever you go.
What We Like/Dislike About the Nikon D7200
Like:
- Great photo quality
- Solid performance
- Sturdy body
Dislike:
- Fixed LCD
- Movie focusing can be slow
What Consumers Are Saying
“It’s not the newest Nikon DX DSLR, but it’s worth every penny.”
“The Nikon D7200 is one of the best midrange DSLRs on the market.”
“The D7200 Isn’t Afraid of the Dark”
Canon EOS 7D Mark II
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II is a DSLR camera with a 20.2 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and an ISO range of 100-16000 (expandable to 25600). It also has a 65-point all cross-type AF system with EV -3 sensitivity (the lowest of any DSLR on the market), 10fps continuous shooting, dual DIGIC 6 processors, and full HD 60p video recording. In other words, it’s a powerful camera that can more than handle the demands of bird photography.
The most important feature of the 7D Mark II for birding is its technology that explicitly targets birds in flight. With Bird Detection AF, the camera can Lock-on AF with up to 128 selectable autofocus points. This means that you can easily keep track of birds in flight, even when they’re moving erratically or at high speeds. You’ll never miss a shot again!
What We Like/Dislike About the Canon EOS 7D Mark II
Like:
- 10fps continuous shooting
- The 65-point cross-type autofocus system
- CF and SD card slots
- Integrated GPS
- 1080p60 video
Dislike:
- Lacks built-in wifi
- Fixed rear LCD
What Consumers Are Saying
“The Canon EOS 7D Mark II is an excellent camera that’s sure to please photographers of all skill levels.”
“The Canon EOS 7D Mark II is a powerful camera that offers a lot of features and flexibility.”
“The Canon EOS 7D Mark II is a terrific camera that’s sure to provide you with great images.”
Conclusion
No matter your budget, there’s a camera that will work well for birding. This blog post looked at the ten best cameras for birding, considering price, features, and customer reviews. Research before purchasing to get the best bang for your buck. And happy birding!
FAQ
What features should I look for in a camera for birding?
The best cameras for birding should have a high-resolution sensor, a fast autofocus system, and good low-light performance. Other features include portability, weather sealing, and specialized AF systems like Bird Detection AF.
What are the best birding lenses?
One of the most critical birding lenses is a 400mm lens. This lens will allow you to see birds from a distance. Other lenses to consider are 70-200mm or 100-400mm zoom range. A teleconverter is also an excellent tool for birders, as it allows you to increase the focal range of your camera without having to buy a new lens.
How do I set up my camera for birding?
First, make sure you have a telephoto zoom lens. This will allow you to get close-up shots of birds without disturbing them. Second, set your camera to a high shutter speed. This will help to freeze the action and prevent blurriness. Third, use manual focus. This will give you more control over your shots and help you to capture sharp images. Finally, make sure you have plenty of storage space. Birding can quickly fill up a memory card, so it’s essential to have plenty of space available. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to capturing fantastic bird photos.
How can I attract birds?
One of the best ways to attract birds is by providing a reliable food source. Bird feeders are an easy way to do this and can be placed in various locations. If you live in an area with many trees, hanging a bird feeder from a branch is a good option. If you have a deck or patio, you can also set out a freestanding bird feeder. Once you have your bird feeder in place, fill it with the type of food that will attract the birds you want to see. For example, if you hope to attract songbirds, use nyjer seed or Finch mix. If you want to attract woodpeckers, use black oil sunflower seeds. By providing food and water, you will create an inviting environment for birds, making your yard a more enjoyable place for all.
