The 7 Best Cameras For Wildlife Photography – Summer 2023: Reviews
- Table of Contents
- Intro
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Best Camera
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Best Upper Mid-Range
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Best Mid-Range
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Best Budget
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Best Cheap
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Best Bridge Camera
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Best Low Light
- Notable Mentions
- Recent Updates
- All Reviews
- Discussions
Updated Jul 26, 2023 at 09:25 am
By Adriana Wiszniewska
Smartphones have made it easy to snap wildlife photos while you’re out and about, but for those who are serious about wildlife photography, a dedicated camera with a zoom lens will take your wildlife photography to the next level. There are a few factors to consider when choosing a camera for nature photography. Fast continuous shooting speeds allow you to capture clear stills of moving animals, while large image buffers let you shoot for longer without interruption. Silent shooting might also be important if you tend to shoot more skittish, easily frightened animals, while quicker animals like small birds require more responsive, accurate autofocus systems.
Thankfully, we’ve done some of the work of narrowing down your options. We’ve bought and tested over 90 cameras in our lab, and below, you’ll find our recommendations for the best cameras for nature photography and wildlife. If you’re interested in a range of photography styles, you can look at our best cameras for general photography. If you’re just starting out with photography, you might also want to check out the best beginner cameras we’ve tested. Otherwise, you can also see our overall picks for best cameras.
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Best Camera For Wildlife Photography
OM SYSTEM OM-1
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Sport & Wildlife Photography
7.
5Body Type
SLR-Style
Mirrorless
Yes
Sensor Size
4/3 (MFT)
See all our test results
The OM SYSTEM OM-1 is the best camera for wildlife photography that we’ve tested. Going with a Micro Four Thirds camera like this has a few benefits for wildlife photography, notably a more portable size and fantastic image stabilization. Compared to full-frame models like the Canon EOS R6 Mark II below, you can use physically smaller lenses to get longer equivalent focal lengths, meaning you can use a more compact kit even when using telephoto lenses to photograph far-off wildlife like birds. On top of that, the OM-1’s five-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) works incredibly well with stabilized lenses to ensure you get steady shots at longer focal lengths.
The camera also has a quick burst rate, including a Pro Capture mode that ensures you won’t miss a critical moment.
Plus, it’s rugged and compact, with a weather-sealed body and excellent ergonomics. It has a solid battery life for a mirrorless camera, too. The biggest downside is that its AF tracking isn’t the most reliable, so it may not be the best choice for fast-moving subjects. If autofocus tracking is a priority, consider the Fujifilm X-h3S. Its AF is a bit more effective than the OM SYSTEM, and its stacked sensor is well-suited to quick subjects, but it’s more expensive and less portable.See our review
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Best Upper Mid-Range Camera For Wildlife Photography
Canon EOS R7
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Sport & Wildlife Photography
8.7
Body Type
SLR-Style
Mirrorless
Yes
Sensor Size
APS-C
See all our test results
While the OM SYSTEM OM-1 is hard to beat if you need something rugged and compact, an APS-C option like the Canon EOS R7 has its own advantages and comes at a lower price point.
With a remarkably quick 15 fps mechanical burst rate and a highly sophisticated autofocus system, the R7 is tailor-made for wildlife shooters. It has a very solid battery life, as well, and feels great in the hand. It also has a fantastic IBIS system for steadier handheld shots.Equivalent lenses for the R7 generally won’t be as portable as Micro Four Thirds options. However, they’re still typically smaller than full-frame alternatives, allowing you to shoot far-off subjects without too much bulk. The R7 also has a high-resolution sensor that gives you more leeway to crop your photos. Ultimately, if you don’t need the portability of a Micro Four Thirds kit, this is one of the best cameras for birding and wildlife at this price point.
See our review
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Best Mid-Range Camera For Wildlife Photography
Canon EOS 90D
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Sport & Wildlife Photography
7.
9Body Type
DSLR
Mirrorless
No
Sensor Size
APS-C
See all our test results
As far as mid-range options go, the Canon EOS 90D is well worth considering. Like the Canon EOS R7, it has a higher resolution sensor than most APS-C cameras, giving you more leeway to crop your photos. It can also shoot at a quick 11 fps max burst rate, though that drops to seven fps when using continuous tracking AF. While its autofocus system isn’t as fast as newer, mirrorless alternatives, it still tracks moving subjects well.
Unfortunately, the trade-off is that you don’t get IBIS for steadier handheld shots. It also doesn’t have the deepest image buffer, which can slow you down when shooting extended bursts. That said, some excellent DSLR lenses are available for Canon’s EF/EF-S mount, and they won’t run you as much as full-frame mirrorless options.
The camera is well-built, weather-sealed, and feels great in hand, making for an excellent all-around shooting experience.See our review
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Best Budget Camera For Wildlife Photography
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
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Sport & Wildlife Photography
7.5
Body Type
SLR-Style
Mirrorless
Yes
Sensor Size
4/3 (MFT)
See all our test results
Shooting wildlife on a budget can be tricky, considering how quickly the cost of zoom and telephoto lenses can add up. That’s why a Micro Four Thirds option like the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a fantastic entry-level choice for wildlife photography.
Lenses are typically smaller and give you longer equivalent focal lengths, which is good for subjects that are farther away. The Micro Four Thirds system also has a well-established stable of lenses to choose from.Beyond that, the camera is lightweight and portable, and it’s one of the few budget cameras to feature five-axis in-body image stabilization, which will help stabilize handheld shots taken at longer focal lengths. It can also shoot at up to 15 fps in silent mode, so you can fire off extended bursts without scaring away more skittish animals. Add in a solid battery life and a decent AF system, and this little camera is hard to beat for beginner wildlife photographers on a budget.
See our review
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Best Cheap Camera For Wildlife Photography
Panasonic LUMIX FZ80
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6.
9Body Type
Bridge
Mirrorless
Yes
Sensor Size
1/2.3-inch
See all our test results
The Panasonic LUMIX FZ80 is a good choice for those on a tight budget who don’t want to dip into the used market. A bridge camera like this one can be a good all-in-one solution thanks to its fixed superzoom lens, and it also means you can save yourself the cost of buying expensive telephoto lenses. While its fixed lens doesn’t offer the same kind of optics as high-quality interchangeable zoom lenses, its long zoom range, from 20 to 1200mm in full-frame equivalence, is incredibly useful for capturing faraway subjects like birds and other wildlife.
That said, the FZ80 doesn’t have the most robust build quality, and the screen and viewfinder resolution is lacking, though the camera is still comfortable to handle and easy to use for beginners.
Just be aware that its small sensor is most suitable for shooting in bright daylight and doesn’t handle noise well in dimmer conditions. Still, if you’re looking for something simple and cheap for casual wildlife and nature photography, the FZ80 offers a lot of value for its price.See our review
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Best Bridge Camera For Wildlife Photography
Sony RX10 IV
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Sport & Wildlife Photography
7.5
Body Type
Bridge
Mirrorless
Yes
Sensor Size
1-inch
See all our test results
If you like the convenience of an all-in-one camera but want something more capable than the Panasonic LUMIX FZ80, the Sony RX10 IV is one of the best bridge cameras on the market.
Naturally, you won’t get the same image quality or sharpness as with an interchangeable-lens option. However, it does have a stacked 1-inch type sensor that puts it above your average bridge camera. The sensor is bigger than most bridge cam sensors—resulting in better image quality than the FZ80, for example—and its stacked design also means a faster readout speed, allowing for quicker burst shooting at up to 24 fps and keeping rolling shutter distortion to a minimum.Its built-in lens is also quite versatile, with a max full-frame equivalent focal length of 600mm, giving you plenty of range for far-off critters. On top of that, it has a good autofocus system to track moving wildlife, and its well-constructed, weather-sealed body gives you some peace of mind in adverse weather conditions. While interchangeable-lens cameras are the way to go if image quality is your top priority, the convenience of having such a long zoom lens in an all-in-one package makes this a great option for birding and hiking enthusiasts.
See our review
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Best Camera For Low-Light Wildlife Photography
Canon EOS R6 Mark II
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Sport & Wildlife Photography
8.4
Body Type
SLR-Style
Mirrorless
Yes
Sensor Size
Full Frame
See all our test results
For those who do a lot of wildlife photography at dusk or dawn, a full-frame camera is a great choice, especially if you don’t mind carrying a bulkier kit. The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is the best full-frame camera we’ve tested for wildlife photography. It does a fantastic job managing noise in low light and features a best-in-class autofocus system that can reliably track moving subjects even in trickier lighting conditions.
Beyond that, it checks all the boxes for wildlife photography, including quick burst shooting, with bursts of up to almost 40 fps when using the e-shutter or a still-respectable 12 fps with the mechanical shutter. Plus, it uses an excellent in-body image stabilization system and has a great battery life. Though full-frame telephoto lenses will be much larger, this is one of the best nature photography cameras if you need the low-light advantage of a full-frame sensor. The Nikon Z 6II is another excellent full-frame option if you’re looking for a slightly cheaper camera body. It has a quick mechanical burst rate and amazing ergonomics, though its AF isn’t quite as reliable as the AF on the R6 Mark II.
See our review
5
Plus, it’s rugged and compact, with a weather-sealed body and excellent ergonomics. It has a solid battery life for a mirrorless camera, too. The biggest downside is that its AF tracking isn’t the most reliable, so it may not be the best choice for fast-moving subjects. If autofocus tracking is a priority, consider the Fujifilm X-h3S. Its AF is a bit more effective than the OM SYSTEM, and its stacked sensor is well-suited to quick subjects, but it’s more expensive and less portable.
With a remarkably quick 15 fps mechanical burst rate and a highly sophisticated autofocus system, the R7 is tailor-made for wildlife shooters. It has a very solid battery life, as well, and feels great in the hand. It also has a fantastic IBIS system for steadier handheld shots.
9
The camera is well-built, weather-sealed, and feels great in hand, making for an excellent all-around shooting experience.
Lenses are typically smaller and give you longer equivalent focal lengths, which is good for subjects that are farther away. The Micro Four Thirds system also has a well-established stable of lenses to choose from.
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Just be aware that its small sensor is most suitable for shooting in bright daylight and doesn’t handle noise well in dimmer conditions. Still, if you’re looking for something simple and cheap for casual wildlife and nature photography, the FZ80 offers a lot of value for its price.
Naturally, you won’t get the same image quality or sharpness as with an interchangeable-lens option. However, it does have a stacked 1-inch type sensor that puts it above your average bridge camera. The sensor is bigger than most bridge cam sensors—resulting in better image quality than the FZ80, for example—and its stacked design also means a faster readout speed, allowing for quicker burst shooting at up to 24 fps and keeping rolling shutter distortion to a minimum.
Notable Mentions
- Canon EOS R6:
The Canon EOS R6 is the predecessor to the Canon EOS R6 Mark II. Though it’s still a great choice for low-light wildlife photography, it has a slower max burst rate, a worse rolling shutter than the Mark II, and a lower-resolution sensor that gives you less leeway to crop.
See our review - Nikon COOLPIX P1000:
The Nikon COOLPIX P1000 is a bridge camera with an astonishing 24 to 3000mm focal length range, far out-zooming the Sony RX10 IV. That said, beyond the range of its zoom lens, it leaves much to be desired in terms of comfort, portability, and autofocus performance.
See our review - Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III:
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is similar to the OM SYSTEM OM-1 if you want something cheaper. However, its autofocus system isn’t as reliable.
See our review
Recent Updates
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Jul 26, 2023:
Added mention of the Fujifilm X-h3S as an alternative to the OM SYSTEM OM-1. -
May 31, 2023:
Added the Panasonic LUMIX FZ80 as the ‘Best Cheap Camera For Wildlife Photography’.
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Apr 05, 2023:
Added the Canon EOS R6 Mark II as the ‘Best Camera For Low Light Wildlife Photography’. Replaced the Nikon Z 6II with the OM SYSTEM OM-1 as the ‘Best Camera For Wildlife Photography’ and replaced the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III with the Canon EOS R7 as the ‘Best Upper Mid-Range Camera For Wildlife Photography, moving the E-M1 Mark III to Notable Mentions. Removed the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III and the Nikon D780 from Notable Mentions. -
Jan 31, 2023:
Removed the Panasonic LUMIX FZ80. -
Dec 02, 2022:
Reviewed article for clarity and accuracy; no change to recommendations.
All Reviews
Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best wildlife cameras for most people to buy, according to their needs.
We factor in the price, feedback from our visitors, and availability (no cameras that are difficult to find or almost out of stock in the U.S.).
If you would like to choose for yourself, here’s the list of all our camera reviews, ranked by their suitability for sports and wildlife photography. Be careful not to get caught up in the details. There is no single perfect camera. Personal taste, preference, and shooting habits will matter more in your final selection.
Best Camera for Sports and Wildlife Photography in 2023
If you are into sports and wildlife photography, you might be wondering which camera is the best for these two genres today. Without a doubt, action photography can be challenging even for the most expensive cameras on the market, since it has very specific requirements. Action cameras need fast autofocus systems, fast continuous shooting speeds, minimum blackout, large camera buffers, extensive weather sealing, solid build quality, and the intelligence to be able to identify and stay locked onto a subject.
In this article, we decided to compile a list of top cameras we recommend for sports and wildlife photography needs. It is important to note that every single tool in the list below has been tested extensively by our team members, so we only provide recommendations based on our real-world experience.
NIKON D500 + 600mm f/4 @ 600mm, ISO 1250, 1/1000, f/4.5
Copyright John Lawson
If you are wondering which camera features are important in an action camera, here is a quick list that we put together, based on its importance (from most important to least):
- Lens Selection – while this is not a camera feature, it is perhaps the most important factor when considering a sports and wildlife camera. What good is a camera, if you can only mount a very limited number of telephoto and super-telephoto lenses on it? The first factor you should always consider is the overall strength of the camera system, which heavily depends on the availability of high-quality lenses.
- Fast, Responsive and Customizable Autofocus (AF) System – you will need a camera with an advanced phase-detection autofocus system that is reliable for fast-action photography. The autofocus system needs to be fast and accurate, capable of producing consistently good results in different environments. Here is a breakdown of the most important autofocus features:
- Phase-Detection AF / Hybrid AF System
- AF Speed
- AF Reliability
- Low-light AF Performance
- Subject Recognition and Tracking
- Range of AF Focus Modes (Single, Dynamic, Group, etc)
- AF Mode Customization (Tracking Speed, Tracking Sensitivity, etc)
- Wide AF Point Coverage
- Face / Eye Detection
- Continuous Shooting Speed – when it comes to photographing sports and wildlife, the more frames-per-second (FPS), the better.
- Camera Buffer – fast FPS alone is not enough if the camera cannot shoot continuously for more than a few seconds before its buffer runs out. The camera also has to have a large enough buffer size.
- Fast Memory Card Storage – the camera buffer heavily depends on how fast the memory card storage is. In fact, if the memory card storage is fast enough, the camera buffer does not have to be very large. Basically, the faster the storage, the faster the images are transfferred to the memory card.
- Sensor Size – being able to shoot clean, noise-free images in low-light situations can be critical when doing wildlife photography. A full-frame camera is going to have much better high ISO performance than a camera with a smaller sensor. At the same time, a smaller sensor with similar resolution is going to provide better reach due to cropping (see crop factor), so one has to evalulate sensor size low-light performance vs reach.
- Sensor Resolution (Megapixels) – while some photographers prefer low-resolution cameras for cleaner images, others like the ability to crop images agressively when using high-resolution cameras.
- Ergonomics – when shooting fast action, ergonomics are extremely important. You need to be able to quickly switch between different focus modes without lifting your eyes off the viewfinder. You must be able to access the most critical settings such as camera mode, ISO, exposure compensation and metering mode when conditions change. You need to be comfortable with button placement, and you should be able to quickly evaluate the quality of the captured image. The camera and lens need to balance in your hands and when used on a tripod.
- Build Quality and Weather Sealing – sports and wildlife photographers have to be able to shoot in all kinds of challenging conditions, so weather sealing in both the camera and the lens is extremely important. When shooting in a busy sports arena or shooting from a moving vehicle, bumping and dropping accidents tend to happen from time to time, and one needs to be able to rely on the build quality of their gear to keep on shooting.
- Battery Life – sports and wildlife photography depletes battery faster than any other type of photography, since the camera is always busy actively tracking subjects, taking many images and constantly accessing and storing captured images. The longer the battery lasts in the field, the better.
- Size and Weight – generally, a high-end DSLR camera with a super-telephoto lens is going to be large and heavy. While smaller sensor systems are going to be lighter and smaller in comparison, they are not going to yield the same level of performance in comparison. You will need to evaluate each system based on your needs and budget. Keep in mind that the camera and lens combination have to be practical in the field.
The camera also has to have a large enough buffer size.
There are other camera features and factors to consider, but the above are the most important ones to keep in mind.
NIKON D3S + 300mm f/2.8 @ 500mm, ISO 1600, 1/800, f/8.0
Copyright Nasim Mansurov
These recommendations are divided into mirrorless cameras and DSLRs.
For most photographers looking for a new system, a mirrorless camera is preferable because DSLR systems are no longer being developed and because mirrorless cameras are generally more advanced in certain features useful for action.
On the other hand, if you are on a budget or want to save a lot on some amazing used supertelephotos, a DSLR can still be a very nice option, provided that you keep in mind that DSLR systems will receive less support from manufacturers.
Keep in mind that the sensor size is going to dictate the size of the overall system, its weight, as well as its overall cost. While top-of-the-line full-frame cameras offer the best autofocus systems and image quality, they are quite large, heavy, and very expensive. For this reason, those who are starting out in sports and wildlife photography might want to first consider APS-C sensor options, which are provided in this article.
When it comes to camera brands and systems, there are plenty to choose from from a variety of camera manufacturers, including Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm, and many others.
The below list is sorted by our order of preference, although every camera we present is more than capable of producing great results.
Mirrorless Camera Systems
Nikon Z9
The Nikon Z9 is Nikon’s first mirrorless camera aimed at sports and wildlife, and they did not disappoint. Although the Z9 has a similar style body compared to the Nikon D6 and others in the Dx series, it is a completely different beast.
Now, Nikon’s flagship has a 45.7MP sensor, and so it has the same pixel density as the Z7, D850, and D500, making the Z9 more flexible when it comes to cropping.
The Z9’s autofocus system can keep up with almost any situation, and it also has some features that were lacking on previous flagship bodies, such as excellent video capabilities. In fact, the Z9 is Nikon’s first camera that can shoot 8K video and in 12-bit Raw no less.
Nikon Z9 + 400 mm f/2.8, ISO 3200, 1/2000 second, f/5.0 © Libor Vaicenbacher
As I said, a wildlife and sports camera is also about the lenses, and Nikon is currently in the lead compared to Canon and Sony.
Not only does Nikon have more supertelephoto primes than the competition with unique offerings like the Nikon 400mm f/4.5 and 800mm f/6.3, their traditional 400mm f/2.8 and 600mm f/4 lenses both have built-in teleconverters.
The Nikon Z9 is also the first major performance flagship without a mechanical shutter. Sports shooters might be wary of this because it is harder to control banding with artificial lighting at sports events, but since the release of the Z9, Nikon has incorporated advanced anti-flicker shutter adjustments to avoid most of these problems.
We have done an extensive review of the Nikon Z9 at Photography Life, which I encourage you to read to see this amazing camera’s full potential.
Sony A1
Sony’s flagship A1 is currently the top Sony camera for wildlife. It has a 50MP full-frame sensor, giving approximately the same pixel density as most APS-C cameras which gives more cropping ability than the Sony A9II or Sony A9. Its autofocus system is in the top three of all cameras available today.
The A1’s blackout-free 30FPS Raw shooting ensures that you will get the shot in almost all scenarios. Sony also has an amazing selection of supertelephoto lenses, including the Sony 600 f/4 GM. Sony also has the best superzoom lens of any system, its Sony 200-600 f/5.6-6.3 lens. The only other first-party superzoom that goes to 600mm for a mirrorless system is the Fuji 150-600mm f/5.6-8, which is an APS-C lens and not as bright at the long end.
Sony a1 + Sony FE 600mm F4 GM OSS (SEL600F40GM) @ 600mm, ISO 800, 1/200, f/4.0, Ondřej Prosický ©
Compared to the Sony A9 II, the Sony A1 is especially suited to wildlife because of its higher-resolution sensor. Sports or action shooters who can typically get closer to their subjects would probably be better off with the Sony A9II, which is also quite a bit cheaper than the Sony A1.
Canon R5
Although Canon’s most advanced mirrorless camera is arguably the Canon R3, the Canon R5 is the best camera if you are considering both sports and wildlife.
The autofocus system of the Canon R5 can still compete with the Sony A1 and the Nikon Z9, and its 45MP sensor makes it more suitable to wildlife than R3 with a 20MP sensor.
As a wildlife shooter who has used the R5, I feel it has some distinct advantages over the Nikon Z9 and the Sony A9 and A1 models. First, its autofocus system is still very capable compared to the Sony and Nikon models.
Canon EOS R5 + EF100-400mm F4.5-5.6 L IS II USM + 1.4x III @ 560mm, ISO 10000, 1/2000, f/9.0 © Michel Schmidlin
The R5 has more resolution than the Sony A9. Having shot wildlife with a 24MP full-frame camera and a 45MP full-frame camera, I can definitely tell the difference. It is also smaller than the Nikon Z9 and cheaper than both the Nikon Z9 and Sony A1. Finally, Canon has the superb Canon 100-500 f/4.5-7.1L lens. Although it is a little dimmer than the Sony 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 model, it is 750g lighter than it. I get a bit tired with a lens the size of the Sony 200-600mm, but the Canon 100-500mm lens is something I can carry all day without fatigue.
Thus, if you are looking for a camera with a compact zoom, the Canon R5 with the Canon RF 100-500 f/4.5-7.1 is still my top choice.
Canon EOS R6II / R6
The Canon EOS R6II is another mirrorless camera on our list of recommended tools for action photography and for a good reason. It is phenomenal, all thanks to Canon’s superb Dual Pixel CMOS AF II autofocus system that is capable of tracking people and wildlife’s eyes with great precision. Add the ability to shoot up to 12 FPS (40 FPS with electronic shutter), high-resolution EVF, low-noise 20.1 MP full-frame image sensor, 4K video shooting up to 60p, and a weather-sealed body, and you got one heck of a mirrorless camera for photographing fast action.
Canon EOS R6 + RF800mm F11 IS STM @ 800mm, ISO 1600, 1/1000, f/11.0
The Canon EOS R6II has excellent ergonomics and a properly organized menu system, making it easy to operate the camera in the field. It is small and lightweight, and when coupled with Canon’s newest 600mm f/11 and 800mm f/11 super-telephoto primes, it can offer amazing reach in a very compact package.
Additionally, Canon has a wide range of supertelephotos for the RF system including a 600mm f/4, an 800 f/5.6, and even a 1200mm f/8, or you can use any of Canon’s supertelephotos for their DSLR EF mount with Canon’s excellent EF to RF adapter.
Almost all of the features of the Canon R6II are in the R6 as well, so you would have very few additional limitations going with the R6 if you can find a good deal on it.
Sony A9 II
If you were to pick the best mirrorless camera for action photography today, the Sony A9 II would certainly take the top spot. The highlights of this camera include Sony’s best 24.2 MP BSI stacked CMOS sensor with phenomenal readout speed that allows up to 20 FPS continuous shooting, advanced 693-point phase detection AF with Real-time Eye Autofocus capabilities, 5-axis in-body image stabilization, 3.69-million dot OLED electronic viewinder (EVF) and dual UHS-II SD memory card slots.
ILCE-9 + FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS @ 352mm, ISO 400, 1/1600, f/5.
6
Copyright Nasim Mansurov
Being a mirrorless camera, the Sony A9 II has a few advantages over Canon’s and Nikon’s top DSLRs. First of all, at just 678 grams, it is a much lighter camera when compared to the Canon 1D X Mark III or Nikon D6 (even with an optional battery grip attached, it is still 300 grams lighter). Second, its autofocus system offers a much wider coverage compared to DSLRs, which allows the Sony A9 II to continue tracking subjects even when they are close to the borders of the frame. Third, the fast readout speed of the image sensor allows the A9 II to be able to shoot without major blackouts, which makes it easier to shoot fast-moving subjects. Obviously, being a mirrorless camera, the Sony A9 II has many pros and cons when compared to a DSLR. If you are wondering about their differences, see my DSLR vs Mirrorless Camera article for more information.
ILCE-9 + FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS + 1.4X Teleconverter @ 280mm, ISO 2500, 1/320, f/4.0
Copyright Nasim Mansurov
Lastly, Sony managed to make its FE 400mm f/2.
8 GM OSS and FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS lenses as light as Canon’s newest super-telephoto primes, which is a very impressive achievement. Lens selection is obviously a big deal for sports and wildlife photography, and that’s where Sony is a bit behind at the moment – it has no 300mm f/2.8 / f/4, 500mm f/4, 800mm f/5.6, or high-end zoom lenses like 200-400mm f/4. Another negative is the poor ergonomics and menu system of all Sony mirrorless cameras. If you are used to Nikon and Canon ergonomics, switching to a Sony might be a rather painful experience.
If you are on a tight budget, the original Sony A9 is also an excellent choice, and it can be purchased at a bargain. Another great option for photographing action is the Sony A7 III.
OM SYSTEM OM-1 (Micro Four Thirds)
The OM SYSTEM OM-1 is a beast of a camera for sports and wildlife. If you are already into micro four thirds, the OM-1 is king. It has a superb subject detection mode, along with an insane 120fps Raw burst mode making it very easy to capture the right moment.
OM System OM-1 — the only stacked sensor camera for micro four thirds
OM SYSTEM in an interview recently said that their focus is “to develop the OM System brand to meet the needs and expectations of adventurous photographers who are passionate about the outdoors”, showing that they have a future commitment to the wildlife and sports genre. This also shows from their release of the latest OM SYSTEM 90mm macro.
I do have one reservation about using micro four thirds for certain kinds of wildlife, and that is simply the lack of long supertelephoto primes. Yes, they do have the Olympus ED 150-400mm f/4.5 TC lens, which is definitely a great lens, but it is also expensive at $7500 and also quite hard to get. There is the Olympus 300mm f/4, which in my opinion is a bit short on a micro four thirds body.
As a long-time bird photographer, I would still strongly recommend going with Nikon, Canon, or Sony if you think you ever might get serious about birds in the future. Sports shooters should also consider other options, especially if they are thinking of using classic options like a 400mm f/2.
8 lens.
On the other hand, if you are sure your style of photography will always be satisfied by existing lenses, the OM-1 is a great option.
Fuji X-h3S (APS-C)
For the longest time, I would never recommend Fuji as a sports or wildlife camera, simply because the options from other brands were far superior in the autofocus and lens selection department. The Fuji X-h3S something different. It has a stacked sensor and a powerful autofocus system which can operate at 40FPS, which is perfect for wildlife.
The X-h3S also offers a 26.1MP APS-C sensor, which offers more pixel density than most full-frame cameras. Its 4K120 F-Log video is also impressive, which is great for wildlife video shooters.
Alongside the release of this camera, Fuji gave us the FXF 150-600mm f/5.6-8 R LM OIS WR. This very compact lens would be perfect for anyone who needs a zoom for wildlife.
That being said, Fuji suffers the same problem as micro four thirds, only more severely.
They simply have very few other lenses suitable for wildlife. (I once saw a man shooting birds with the Fuji 200 f/2. It was cool, but definitely not practicale or usable in most scenarios.)
So, my opinion is that if the Fuji X-h3S is the perfect camera for you for other reasons and you’ll only ever use a zoom like the 150-600mm f/5.6-8, then this would be a nice wildlife option. On the other hand, if you are selecting a system for the first time and want to grow with sports and wildlife shooting, stick with Nikon, Sony, or Canon.
DSLR Camera Systems
Canon EOS-1D X Mark III
If you are looking for a true beast of a DSLR in the Canon world, the latest EOS 1D X Mark III is an absolute marvel for any kind of action photography, including sports and wildlife. Canon engineers put their best efforts into making it the most feature-rich and complete DSLR camera on the market today, and it really shows. With its advanced 20.1 MP CMOS sensor that produces low-noise images even at extremely high ISO levels, 191-point advanced autofocus system, superb Dual Pixel CMOS AF and 5.
5K video shooting capabilities, the Canon 1D X Mark III shines as both advanced stills and video camera.
Canon EOS-1D X @ 560mm, ISO 640, 1/1600, f/6.3
Copyright Dvir Barkay
Canon’s new autofocus system is what makes the 1D X Mark III stand out from the competition. In addition to the advanced phase-detection autofocus system that features Face Detection, Head Detection, and Deep Learning for advanced subject recognition and tracking, Canon also incorporated its Dual Pixel CMOS AF into the camera that takes autofocus performance to the next level when using Live View. This brings many of the benefits of modern mirrorless systems in terms of autofocus features. At 16 FPS, the 1D X Mark III is also the fastest camera on the market when it comes to continuous shooting speed – and it can shoot at such insane speeds with full-time AI Servo AF. Switching to Live View, it extends the shooting speed to 20 FPS, also with continuous autofocus and tracking capabilities. And it can do all that without ever running out of the camera buffer, even when shooting RAW + JPEG images.
Canon EOS-1D Mark III @ 300mm, ISO 800, 1/200, f/3.2
Copyright Dvir Barkay
The EOS-1D X Mark III is the first Canon camera to feature the HEIF image option, which can store HDR information in the image and offers much better bit depth compared to the JPEG format.
And let’s not forget about Canon’s excellent line-up of super-telephoto lenses – from 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM and 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x all the way to the exotic 300mm f/2.8, 400mm f/2.8, 500mm f/4, 600mm f/4 and 800mm f/5.6 primes. Canon really knocked its latest EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM and EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM lenses out of the park, making them significantly lighter compared to their Nikon counterparts (the 400mm is almost a kilo lighter in comparison, which is very impressive).
As explained in my Nikon D6 vs Canon 1D X Mark III article, the Canon 1D X Mark III stands out almost in every way when compared to the Nikon D6, making it our top contender for the best sports and wildlife camera on the market today.
Nikon D6
The Nikon D6 is another advanced and feature-rich DSLR camera on the market today, making it another top pick for sports and wildlife photography. Sporting a low-noise 20.8 MP CMOS sensor, Nikon’s most advanced Multi-CAM 37K autofocus system, a fast EXPEED 6 processor, 14 FPS continuous shooting speed, a huge buffer, and dual CFexpress memory card slots, the Nikon D6 is a monster of a camera. The autofocus system features a total of 105 all cross-type focus points that deliver fast and accurate focusing, which is extremely important when shooting fast action.
NIKON D5 @ 600mm, ISO 4000, 1/640, f/4.0
Copyright Robert Andersen
As Nikon’s “best of the best”, the D6 has superb ergonomics, excellent build quality, and extreme weather sealing to make it suitable for any shooting environment. Nikon also has an extensive list of exotic super-telephoto lenses Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR, 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR, 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR, 300mm f/2.8G VR II, 400mm f/2.
8E FL ED VR, 500mm f/4E FL ED VR, 600mm f/4 E FL ED VR and 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR. For those who want lighter lenses, the Nikon 300mm f/4E PF ED VR, as well as the 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR are also unique and superb alternatives. Lastly, Nikon maintains an excellent trio of 1.4x, 1.7x and 2x teleconverter options, providing plenty of focal length options for those who need better reach.
NIKON D4S @ ISO 12800, 1/1600, f/6.3
Copyright John Lawson
For those on a tighter budget, Nikon’s previous-generation top-of-the-line DSLRs like D4, D4S, and D5 are also excellent choices for sports and wildlife photography. In my earlier days of photography, I used to own and love the Nikon D3s, which I used heavily for photographing action and wildlife. I also had quite a bit of field experience shooting with both Nikon D4 and D4s, which are simply phenomenal cameras. Today, you can find these cameras for a real bargain in the used market, some of which are in excellent condition.
NIKON D4 + 800mm f/5.
6 @ 800mm, ISO 1400, 1/320, f/5.6
Copyright Nasim Mansurov
Nikon’s top-of-the-line cameras are obviously not for everyone, but for those who can afford these cameras, they are worth every penny.
Nikon D850
Those who want a more modern DSLR with better cropping options than the D6 have another excellent choice – the Nikon D850. This camera features a high-quality 45 MP BSI CMOS sensor capable of class-leading high ISO performance and dynamic range, Multi-CAM 20K 153-point AF system, 7 FPS continuous shooting speed, a reasonably large buffer, 4K video shooting, excellent battery life, superb ergonomics and full weather-sealing.
NIKON D850 + 180-400mm f/4 @ 380mm, ISO 400, 1/1000, f/4.0
Copyright John Lawson
Nikon threw everything in its arsenal at the D850, and it really shows. The D850 is a DX and FX camera combined in one. Switch to DX mode, and you get a 19.4 MP camera with unlimited buffer capacity. And if you use a high-power battery in a grip, you can increase the shooting speed to 9 FPS – almost the same speed as what the Nikon D500 offers.
NIKON D850 + 250-550mm f/5.6 @ 550mm, ISO 450, 1/250, f/5.6
Copyright John Lawson
At $3K, the D850 is not a cheap camera, but it is one heck of a tool for practically any photography needs, including fast action. If it falls out of your budget, the Nikon D780 is another great full-frame option at a much lower price. See our Nikon D780 review for more information.
Nikon D780
If the D850 is out of your budget, the Nikon has another great full-frame option – the D780. Sporting a modern 24.5 MP BSI CMOS sensor, EXPEED 6 image processor, Advanced Multi-CAM 3500FX II autofocus system with 51-focus points, 7 FPS continuous shooting speed (12 FPS in live view), a large buffer and a lightweight but fully weather-sealed body, the D780 has a lot to offer for its $2300 MSRP. Nikon incorporated some of its features from the mirrorless Z-series cameras into the D780, making it a “hybrid” DSLR.
NIKON D780 + VR 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3E @ 122mm, ISO 1100, 1/2000, f/5.6
Copyright Spencer Cox
Although its autofocus system is older and inferior to the one on the D850, Nikon improved the AF algorithm, which makes it quite solid for shooting fast action, even in low-light situations.
Those who like shooting videos will be pleased with the 4K video recording capabilities – the D780 does it without any extra cropping involved (full sensor width, oversampled). It has dual UHS-II compatible SD memory card slots, so it is a good idea to use fast cards in order to clear the buffer faster. As expected from a DSLR, the D780 has amazing battery life – you can get up to 2260 shots (CIPA) on a single charge! There is a lot to say about this camera, so if you want to find out more, check out our detailed Nikon D780 review.
NIKON D780 + VR 90mm f/2.8G @ 90mm, ISO 100, 1/2500, f/2.8
Copyright Spencer Cox
Nikon D500
Although the Nikon D500 was announced way back in 2016 and has not received a refresh, it has remained as a formidable choice for sports and wildlife photography. While it might not have the same level of low-light performance as the full-frame cameras I talked about so far (being an APS-C / DX camera), it has Nikon’s incredible and proven Multi-CAM 20K 153-point autofocus system, fast 10 FPS continuous shooting speed, large camera buffer, superb battery life, and full weather-sealed construction, making it one of the best APS-C action cameras on the market.
NIKON D500 + 300mm f/4 @ 420mm, ISO 800, 1/125, f/8.0
Copyright Nasim Mansurov
The Nikon D500 is a robust and very practical camera in the field, especially when paired with Nikon’s top super-telephoto lenses. My favorite lens selections for the Nikon D500 are the 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR, 300mm f/4E PF ED VR, and 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR lenses. These lenses are very small, lightweight, and extremely versatile, allowing one to easily hand-hold gear in the field. And being a DSLR, you don’t have to worry about running out of the camera battery when observing wildlife at a distance.
Nikon D500, 200-500mm f/5.6 @ 360mm, ISO 250 1/2000s f/5.6
Copyright John Lawson
While many photographers have been wondering why the Nikon D500 has not been updated in so many years, I feel like the D500 has already pushed many of the boundaries of current sensor and DSLR technology. At around $1500 retail and less than $1K in the used market, the D500 still offers quite a bit of value, even today.
Best Budget Camera for Sports and Wildlife Photography
If you are not ready to spend thousands of dollars on a medium format or a full-frame system, you might want to consider a few budget-friendly options with smaller sensors that offer a bit less resolution. Many photographers who do wildlife photography as a hobby might want to consider these:
- Canon EOS 90D
- Fujifilm X-T4
- Nikon D7500
- Sony A6000-series
I would also recommend looking closely at the DSLRs on this list, or some older models like the Nikon D5, and Canon 1DX II because they are still very capable but are dropping in price due to the maturing mirrorless technology.
What camera do you shoot sports and wildlife with and why? Please share in the comments section below!
Best Wildlife Photography Equipment
Best Wildlife Photography Equipment – Canon Europe
ARTICLE
Professional wildlife photographers Marina Kano and Markus Varesvuo talk about their favorite equipment for capturing stunning images of the natural world.
Bird photographer Markus Varesvuo says the Canon EOS R5 has had a big impact on his workflow. “In late winter and early spring, I spent two weeks filming black grouse on the lek, where they do mating dances,” he says. “I’ve been doing this every year for several decades, and as a result I have accumulated an archive of images of these birds fighting and flying into each other. However, with the EOS R5, this event sparkled with new colors for me. This is a big step forward.” Taken on a Canon EOS R5 with a Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM lens at 1/3200 sec, f/2.8 and ISO5000. © Markus Varesvuo
Wildlife photography requires patience, perseverance, an understanding of animal behavior patterns and the ability to work on location. Also, the presence of a telephoto lens will not hurt. The Canon EOS system has a lot to offer professional wildlife photographers, from telephoto primes, zooms and super telephoto lenses to high-speed, high-quality cameras that can handle even the most extreme shooting conditions faced by photographers looking to capture shy wildlife.
But what are the best Canon cameras and lenses for wildlife photography? We asked two Canon Ambassadors, African wildlife specialist Marina Kano and bird photographer Markus Waresvuo, to talk about the cameras and lenses they use to capture stunning images of the natural world, while Mike Burnhill, Canon Europe Professional Products Specialist, will share technical insights.
This manual introduces RF lenses for use with Canon EOS R system full-frame mirrorless cameras, and EF lenses for use with EOS DSLRs and EOS R cameras via the EF-EOS R Mount Adapter without sacrificing quality or functionality.
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African wildlife specialist Marina Cano appreciates the fast burst and autofocus speeds of her Canon EOS-1D X Mark III.
“Together, these features allow you to quickly prepare for shooting and capture the best moments,” she says. Taken on a Canon EOS-1D X Mark III with a Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM lens at 1/2000 sec, f/4 and ISO400. © Marina Cano
“When photographing wild animals, you never know what you will encounter,” says Marina. Animals can run after bushes or quickly jump between branches. However, the tracking system on the EOS-1D X Mark III allows you to keep your subject in focus.” Taken on a Canon EOS-1D X Mark III with a Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM lens at 1/1250 sec, f/9 and ISO2500. © Marina Kano
1. Best DSLR for wildlife photography: Canon EOS-1D X Mark III
With high-speed autofocus, 20fps fast continuous shooting. The Canon EOS-1D X Mark III is built to last and is ideal for professional wildlife photography.
“When shooting wildlife, which in my case is Africa, the action unfolds instantly and I just don’t have time to take good care of the equipment,” says Marina.
“I often leave my cameras on dusty ground or dirty floors in vehicles, and I often work in clouds of dust or slanting rain that fills the inside of a car – sometimes both phenomena can be seen in one day.”
Canon EOS-1D X Mark III
Reliable, rugged and easy to use DSLR with 20.2 MP full frame sensor and 61-point autofocus system, the EOS-1D X Mark III captures better images faster than the competition .
“During my recent trip to Tanzania in April 2021, I captured a picture of a cheetah running through the rain between hills. I didn’t have time to worry about the camera getting wet and I knew I could totally rely on the EOS-1D X Mark III.”
Wildlife photographer Bruno d’Amicis took the Canon EOS R3 to the test when he traveled to Abruzzo, Italy to capture the elusive sea plovers. With the EOS R3’s 120 fps refresh rate electronic viewfinder and up to 30 fps continuous shooting. With full tracking AF/AE, it’s even easier for photographers to track and shoot fast-moving subjects even in low light.
Taken on camera
Canon EOS R3 with lens
Canon RF 600mm F4L IS USM at 1/4000 sec, f/4.5 and ISO 1600. © Bruno d’Amichis
On the EOS R3, Tracking AF recognizes birds as the main subject in all AF modes, including the new Flexi Zone AF, in which the size and shape of the AF area can be manually selected. This unique combination of capabilities makes the EOS R3 ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects such as these coastal birds. Taken on camera
Canon EOS R3 with lens
Canon RF 600mm F4L IS USM+
Extender Canon RF 2x and the following settings: 1/640 sec., f/8 and ISO 400. © Bruno d’Amicis
2. Best Mirrorless Camera for High-Speed Wildlife Photography: Canon EOS R3
Canon’s flagship full-frame mirrorless camera, the EOS R3, brings a new level of performance to professional wildlife photographers.
The EOS R3 is equipped with a Canon-developed BSI CMOS image sensor and offers continuous shooting speeds up to 30 fps. with full tracking autofocus/autoexposure. It also features an innovative eye-tracking autofocus system that allows you to move the focus point to look at a different area of the frame.
“For example, when shooting a flock of birds, this autofocus allows you to isolate the bird of interest faster than manually changing the focus point or moving the camera,” explains Mike. “The EOS R3 allows you to select a subject for the system to track by simply moving your gaze to the desired area of the frame, without you having to recompose.”
Canon EOS R3
A camera designed to capture fast-moving subjects that meets the highest demands of professional photographers with ultra-fast response, high sensitivity, reliability and durability.
Subject Tracking AF is supported for all AF area modes, including bird, cat, and dog AF, and the new Flexi Zone, which allows you to change the size and shape of the AF area—ideal for shooting creatures of different sizes.
The camera not only offers multiple autofocus modes, but also boasts the world’s fastest focusing time of 0.03 sec. — and the most effective in low light — down to brightness levels of -7.5 EV or lower — with autofocus among full-frame cameras.*
The EOS R3 features a built-in Image Stabilizer that delivers industry-leading 8-stop-equivalent performance with select RF lenses attached to the EOS R3, providing unrivaled flexibility when shooting at long focal lengths.
“The wide maximum aperture of the Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM makes it my go-to choice when shooting in low light,” says Markus. “It’s also the best when it comes to capturing fast movement.” Taken on a Canon EOS R5 with a Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM lens at 1/4000 sec, f/3.2 and ISO4000. © Markus Varesvuo
The Canon RF 400mm F2.8L IS USM lens is also an excellent choice for low light photography. “The EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM design team was also involved in the development of the RF lenses,” says Mike.
Therefore, these models share many technologies and electronic components.” Taken on camera
Canon EOS R5 with lens
Canon RF 400mm F2.8L IS USM at 1/4000 sec, f/2.8 and ISO 200.
3. Best Canon Lenses for Low Light Wildlife Photography: Canon RF 400mm F2.8L IS USM and Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM
A fast f/2.8 aperture and quality optical components make the Canon EF 400mm f The /2.8L IS III USM and its counterpart in the RF range, the Canon RF 400mm F2.8L IS USM, are excellent choices for capturing superb images even in the most adverse conditions.
“The EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM is a must for bird photography during the Finnish winter,” says Markus. “Only its combination of fast focusing and high aperture allows me to photograph birds in flight in low light conditions.”
Canon RF 400mm F2.8L IS USM
Super telephoto lens with high optical performance and class-leading portability, performance and image quality.
Learn more
Tele focal length separates the subject from the background, and together with a maximum aperture of f/2.8, these professional 400mm lenses are ideal for capturing shots that focus the viewer’s attention on the animal or bird of choice. “I used the EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM at f/2.8 to shoot the meerkats and the background got a soft blur effect,” says Marina.
With comparable technologies and features, the Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM and the Canon RF 400mm F2.8L IS USM offer similar optical performance, so you can be confident that you will be taking quality photographs when used as full-frame mirrorless cameras of the EOS R System and digital SLR cameras. “Both of these lenses are also much lighter than their counterparts,” adds Mike.
However, the Canon EOS R3’s 12-pin RF lens mount allows for faster lens-to-camera communication, as well as a wide bandwidth that enables faster communication for more efficient focusing when using the RF 400mm F2.
8L IS lens with the EOS R3 USM.
The Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM lens offers five stops of image stabilization and fast ring-type USM autofocus, which is useful when tracking fast-moving subjects like this screamer eagle. “I use this lens to capture a wide variety of wildlife including elephants, lions, caracals, eagles and herons,” says Marina. Taken on a Canon EOS-1D X Mark III with a Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM lens at 1/3200 sec, f/4 and ISO640. © Marina Cano
The Canon RF 600mm F4L IS USM super telephoto lens captures close-ups of even the most shy animals with exceptional image quality in all conditions. Taken on camera
Canon EOS R5 with lens
Canon RF 600mm F4L IS USM at 1/800 sec, f/4 and ISO 800.
4. Best Canon lenses for bird photography: Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM and Canon RF 600mm F4L IS USM
Marina and Markus chose the Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM as their must-have lens. “It offers unimaginably high quality,” says Marina.
Markus needs maximum magnification to shoot so he can stay away from the shy birds he photographs. “The EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM is the lens I use the most,” he says. “When needed, I also use the EF 1.4x III Extender and EF 2x III Extender, mounting them on EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM and EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM lenses without any loss in quality. The extra focal length allows you to photograph even the most shy birds from a distance.”
Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM
Incredibly lightweight 600mm f/4 lens with 5-stop Image Stabilizer for exceptional image quality and pro-level performance.
Learn more
With class-leading portability and performance, the Canon RF 600mm F4L IS USM lens with RF mount is becoming the go-to lens for professional nature photographers. Attached to the Canon EOS R3, the RF 600mm F4L IS III USM becomes even more effective in bird photography with bird AF mode and the new Flexi Zone AF mode, which allows you to choose the size and shape of the AF area, especially for those who taking pictures of small birds.
For more affordable super telephoto lenses for wildlife photography, you can also consider the Canon RF 600mm F11 IS STM and even the Canon RF 800mm F11 IS STM. “Until now, 800mm lenses were too expensive, too big and heavy—you had to plan where and when you would use them,” explains Mike. “However, this lens is lighter than a water bottle and can easily be carried in your equipment bag.”
The compact size of the EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM lens makes it an excellent choice for wildlife photographers who often travel light. Taken on a Canon EOS-1D X (Next generation now available at:
Canon EOS-1D X Mark III) with lens
Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM at 400mm, 1/125 sec, f/5.6 and ISO800.
“The Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM is easy to hold and the image quality and focus are outstanding,” says Markus. It also allows you to focus on subjects as close as 1.2 meters with the 500mm focal length, allowing Marcus to get as close as possible to capture this skittish brown-headed nut.
Taken on a Canon EOS R5 with a Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM lens at 472mm, 1/160 sec, f/7.1 and ISO250. © Markus Varesvuo
5. Canon’s most versatile wildlife photography lenses: Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM and Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM
Versatile zoom range, optical components exceptional quality and a portable, weatherproof design make the Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM and Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM lenses excellent choices for handheld wildlife photography .
Both the EF and RF models are equipped with a three-mode Image Stabilizer, however the EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM supports four stops slower than non-IS lenses, while the RF 100-500mm F4. 5-7.1 L IS USM provides an effect equivalent to five stops of exposure.
Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
L-series build quality and 5-stop image stabilization make this lens an exceptional performance lens, while UD lens elements and an ASC coating provide unparalleled contrast and clarity to create the highest quality images.
Learn more
“A 500mm lens is a great entry point for bird photography,” says Mike. What’s more, the RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM is also compatible with RF extenders. Autofocus on the Canon EOS R3, EOS R5 and EOS R6 models works in such low light that the camera will easily focus even when the aperture is closed, including at f/22.”
If you’re on the budget, consider an even more versatile lens, the Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x. “It offers a 200-400mm focal range with a constant f/4 aperture and a built-in extender,” says Mike.
“The EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM [newly available: EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM] is one of my favorite lenses,” says Markus. “I have been working with him regularly for several years, and he becomes my companion when I go to shoot birds and landscapes, such as this image of the Great Owl.” Taken on a Canon EOS-1D X Mark III with a Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens at 100mm, 1/2000 sec, f/10 and ISO10000.
© Markus Varesvuo
6. Canon’s best lenses for non-profile wildlife photography: Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM and Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM
Shorter telephoto zoom lenses such as the Canon RF 70- The 200mm F2.8L IS USM and the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM are great additions to a wildlife photographer’s kit as they allow you to capture an animal while preserving its surroundings. A constant f/2.8 aperture makes these professional zoom lenses perfect for wildlife photography in low light, too. 9The 0003
RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM has the advantage of a more compact body than its EF counterpart, and is equipped with a 5-stop Image Stabilizer.
Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM
This high-performance F2.8 telephoto zoom lens is the third in a trio of new RF lenses with a compact body and exceptional image quality to suit any shooting situation.
Learn more
“When you fly on an airplane, you want to fit as much equipment as possible in your hand luggage, so size and weight really matter,” says Mike.
“The RF version is significantly smaller and lighter, and offers lightning fast focusing.”
Marina took this shot with a Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM lens (newly available: EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM) to capture the majestic sky. “Telephoto lenses are great for wildlife photography, but they provide a compressed perspective,” says Mike. “A wide-angle lens, in turn, adds depth to the composition and makes it more voluminous.” Taken on a Canon EOS-1D X Mark II (now succeeded by the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III) with a Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM lens at 1/500 sec, f/ 5.6 and ISO 1000. © Marina Kano
7. Best Canon Lenses for Capturing Wildlife in Their Surroundings: Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM and Canon RF 15-35mm F2.8L IS USM
using an ultra wide angle lens such as the Canon RF 15-35MM F2.8L IS USM, but if you can do it, you can capture the animal in its natural surroundings. The ability to control a Wi-Fi-enabled EOS camera using the Canon Camera Connect app on a smartphone or tablet makes these lenses ideal for setting camera traps.
Marina uses a Canon 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM (the next generation is now available: Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM). “I love how this magical lens captures the small silhouette of a giraffe or elephant against a skyline or skyline,” she says. “This creates an immersive effect that reflects the scale of Africa.”
Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM
Premium ultra-wide-angle zoom lens with a constant f/2.8 maximum aperture for superior image quality even in low light.
Learn more
The EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM’s state-of-the-art optical design delivers edge-to-edge clarity, while the RF 15-35mm F2.8L IS USM offers a range of additional features. “They are similar sized lenses that offer comparable image quality, but the RF model adds a lot more, including a 5-stop Image Stabilizer,” says Mike.
Canon RF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS USM and
The EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM offers hybrid image stabilization. “Handheld macro photography will move the camera up, down, right, and left instead of tilting and panning,” explains Mike.
“Therefore, the hybrid system is designed to compensate for both types of vibration.” Taken on camera
Canon EOS R5 with lens
Canon RF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS USM at 1/160 sec, f/7.1 and ISO 6400. © Oliver Wright
8. Canon’s best lenses for close-up wildlife photography: Canon RF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS USM and Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM
When it comes to small wildlife, there’s nothing better than a comfortable macro lens with high image quality. The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM short telephoto lens delivers true-to-life reproduction of the subject at 1x magnification when shooting from a distance where you can’t scare away dragonflies or other insects.
Its RF equivalent offers 1.4x magnification at the same time. “The difference between 1x and 1.4x does not seem to be that significant,” says Mike. “However, in fact, this is almost a 50% increase in the size of the object.”
Canon RF 100mm F2.
8L Macro IS USM The
RF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS USM is a professional macro lens with class-leading 1.4x magnification and spherical aberration control for fine bokeh.
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“Another advantage of the Canon RF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS USM is the focus breath reduction feature,” adds Mike. “It will make it easier for you to stack images on top of each other, using the focus stacking technique to create macro photos with increased depth of field.”
When paired with the Canon EOS R3 camera, the RF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS USM lens offers maximum flexibility with up to 8-stops of stabilization for crisp macro photography even handheld at high magnifications.
Author Marcus Hawkins
Only for still photography with f/1.2 lens, excluding RF lenses with Defocus Smoothing (DS) coating, using center AF point and single-server AF at room temperature and ISO 100.
ARTICLE
Shooting birds of prey at dusk with the EOS-1D X Mark III
How does Canon’s flagship action camera perform when used to capture fast birds in low light? Wildlife photographer Markus Varesvuo figured it out for you.
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The best cameras for wildlife photography in 2021
Final Dub:
We already represented EOS R5 and we know that it deserves more. If you request one specific reason for this right, we will provide you with two or more.
First off, this amazing 36 x 24mm 45MP full-frame CMOS sensor is the first EOS camera to feature 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization, making it a true leader among Canon cameras.
With these attributes, you get the best detail in your shots that can compete with other high-end mirrorless and SLR cameras.
According to Summers, you can also get 35-megapixel footage from his 8K footage, which is very nice. Even better, when Canon says “35MP” quality, it actually means 35MP. The captures have great detail and you get almost the same elements as in real shots.
On the other hand, Summers said that the EOS R5’s burst mode and buffer will surprise you.
“The EOS R5 can shoot bursts at up to 12fps with the mechanical shutter and up to 20fps with the electronic shutter. That’s more than enough, and the good thing about the R5 is how deep its buffer is. It has two card slots and, depending on what you use, you get either a maximum buffer of 180 RAW images with a CFexpress card slot, or 87 RAW images with a UHS-II SD card slot.”
And since we’re talking about video, the R5 can also deliver 8K video at 30p.
However, there is one caveat here, which is the infamous overheating of such cameras when shooting anything in excess of standard 4K 30p video. However, for very short clips, we still consider the 8K feature to be a good addition.
On the other hand, the R5 boasts Dual Pixel CMOS AF II, which is currently one of Canon’s prides in terms of autofocus system. It covers photos from 5.940 AF points and 4,500 point video. You can use this technology at any frame rate and resolution, Summers says, which is really amazing compared to other camera models with very limited autofocus features and capabilities.
“The performance is unsurpassed, since the detection of an object, regardless of its movement, will cause tears. The way the autofocus locks on and stays on the subject is really impressive; be it face, head or eye tracking.
“Once the camera has recognized the person, the focus stays where it should be, even if the bride wears a veil or momentarily covers her face with a bouquet, hands, or whatever,” Summers said.