Spending time in mother nature often fosters creativity, inspiration, and pure delight. You may want to capture special scenes and magic moments by taking a wide range of photos and videos. When seeking the best camera for hiking and outdoor photography, there are countless options on the market, including many cellphone cameras that take extremely high-quality photos. The camera you choose depends on a few key elements, including your goals with photography, the terrain you hike, the time you spend in the backcountry, and your comfort with technology. Let’s take a look at a few considerations before diving into our “best of” list.
Buyers Guide
Camera terminology is complex and each article seems to suggest something different in what a buyer needs to seek out. Here’s what we think you should consider when looking for a camera.
Do I need a DSLR or mirrorless camera?
DSLRs have long been popular amongst photography enthusiasts but lately, camera makers and users are leaning towards mirrorless cameras for a variety of reasons. Both types of cameras have their merits and eventually it comes down to personal preference. Here’s an oversimplified explanation that will give you a general idea:
A DSLR camera utilizes a built-in mirror that reflects the image you are wanting to capture up into the viewfinder. In order to capture the image, the mirror flips up so that the image can pass to the back of the camera where the sensor can record the image.
Mirrorless cameras implements a live view through an electronic viewfinder without the use of a traditional “mirror”. The camera sensor creates an electronic image of what you are pointing your camera at that is then displayed in the viewfinder. When you go to capture the image, the camera digitally records it, without flipping a mirror up. This type of camera usually has a shorter battery life span because of the way it captures images.
How many megapixels should I opt for?
More megapixels are useful if you’re looking to blow up your images on canvases or large prints. Usually, anywhere between 12 and 24 megapixels is great for standard photography and will give you the option to be able to edit fine detail and blow up photos. Be careful of going too high in the megapixel category. Too high and you’ll eat into your computer’s storage and need to get an external harddrive. You also might have to resize images anyways to make them compatible with a printer or social media.
What kind of lens do I need?
If you’re really looking to geek-out on a camera for hiking and want to level-up your photography game, we’d recommend buying a less expensive body that is a few years old (or even refurbished) and splurging on the lens. Determine what types of photos you want to take while outdoors.
A 30mm lens is a great place to start that gives you the best of both worlds. A 30mm camera lens with a lower f stop (as low as 1.4) will allow you to be able to produce extremely detailed close-ups of leaves, faces, rocks, or bugs and have that beautiful blurry background we all love to see. A wide-angle lens like a 10-18mm lens will allow you to capture a large swath of land and a higher f stop (f11+) will allow everything to be in focus. You can buy a lens made by the same company that made your camera body (original equipment manufacturer or OEM) or from a third-party lens maker.
Is it a bad idea to hike with a nice camera?
Some of the best shots are going to come from the most difficult of situations. In order to feel more comfortable of the risk that is taking a nice piece of technology into the backcountry, consider buying a personal insurance policy on your camera body and lens. These can cost as little as $5 a month and can completely insure your equipment, come rain, snow, mountain goat, or rock fall.
Beginner-Friendly/Entry Level Cameras for Hiking
Regardless of your experience with technology, navigating a new camera can be daunting. Each brand has its own hardware and software. It takes time to get comfortable adjusting settings on the fly, changing file types, and locking in your white balance. For those looking to capture visually-pleasing memories they can take home, show their friends, or post to their socials, these beginner-friendly cameras are your best bet, offering a wide range of possibilities.
Table of Contents
Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G
Key technical specs:
- Price: $1,000 – $1,200 depending on cell phone provider and plan
- Type: cell phone camera
- Skill level required: none
- Megapixels: 108mp, 10mp, 12mp
- Durability: dust resistant, water resistant, weather resistant
- Lens: 4, f1.8 (main), f2.2 (ultrawide), f4.9 (zoom), f2.4 (zoom)
What we love
We love that cell phone manufacturers are continuing to up their camera game. The Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G is one of the best cell phone cameras out on the market today, offering users a plug-and-play experience: they can take fantastic photos with minimal (if any) adjustments. Simply point and shoot, the camera will do the work for you.
What we don’t
We don’t need so many megapixels. It seems like there’s competition between technology manufacturers to commit to upping this number with each new product release. The file sizes are big and take time to upload to Adobe Lightroom and other photo editing softwares.
Product Review:
With four different lens options, this pocketable camera is obviously lightweight, rugged, and durable when hiking in inclement weather. The zoom lens doesn’t sacrifice clarity like other cell phone camera on the market so you can capture far-away scenes – like a herd of elk traipsing through a meadow, or climbers on a ridgeline across the valley. 8K video, while also huge in file size, captures extremely crisp footage that is equivalent to professional level film. The phone’s night mode works wonders and uses even the slightest amount of light to illuminate the image. Beginners won’t have to worry about adjusting the ISO, shutter speed, or aperture in order to capture a low-light image.
iPhone 14 Pro Max
Key technical specs:
- Price: $1,099 – $2,000 depending on cell phone provider and plan
- Type: cell phone camera
- Skill level required: none
- Megapixels: 48MP
- Durability: dust resistant, water resistant, weather resistant
- Lens: 3, f1.78 (main), f2.2 (ultrawide), f1.78 (zoom)
What we love
The useability of the iPhone is unmatched. It’s so simple and straightforward, requiring almost no input from the user. The same goes for the phone’s three distinct cameras. Easily shift between each lens in order to capture portraits and landscapes.
What we don’t
As with most cell phone cameras, adjusting the settings to get the exposure you want is tricky. Their software is designed to auto adjust, while giving the user some options but not a wide range like you’d have with a mirrorless or DSLR camera.
Product Review:
The iPhone 14 Pro Max is able to shoot amazing quality footage and snap incredible stills, all at the touch of a button. Imagine stabilization has improved in this new release while shooting in Pro Raw gives users a whole lot of data to edit with on the backend. You’d be surprised what photos are actually taken with an iPhone camera instead of a DSLR or mirrorless.
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
Key technical specs:
- Price: $899 (body only)
- Type: mirrorless
- Skill level required: beginner, familiar with or willing to learn camera settings
- Megapixels: 20.4 MP
- Durability: weather-sealed
- Lens mount: micro four-thirds mount
What we love
This light-weight yet still compact camera fits easily into hiking daypacks and overnight bags without adding too much weight. The weatherproofing is fantastic and unlike many other cameras on this list.
What we don’t
Because it’s mirrorless, the battery goes quick. Hike with fully-charged backup batteries to make sure you can squeeze every awesome capture out of your outdoor adventure.
Product Review:
The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III can blend photos together to create the most high resolution, visually-appealing photo. If you’re looking for a tough, all-in-one camera that offers excellent image quality, this is it. Because of the weather-sealing, you can use this camera in all conditions without worrying about damage. The Olympus channels old-school design to make its camera body look classic and modern.
DJI Pocket 2
Key technical specs:
- Price: $349
- Type: gimbal camera
- Skill level required: beginner
- Megapixels: 64 megapixels
- Durability: none, can purchase water-resistant and water-proof cases
What we love
The in-body stabilization of this handheld gimbal camera is unmatched. If you want to record your hiking adventures without jostling the viewer along the way, the DIJI Pocket 2 is meant for you. Record and capture great video and photos with this tiny, light-weight option.
What we don’t
This camera is meant for quick captures and amateaur videographers desiring on-the-go shots. The DIJI Pocket 2, while boasting a high number of megapixels, isn’t going to be your go-to for insanely detailed, striking shots.
Product Review:
Made for videographers on the go, this camera can be utilized for hiking and outdoor adventures, with the right additional gear and mindset. Those looking to lean into photography should gravitate towards another option on this list. However, hikers looking to make short, awesome videos should absolutely consider the DIJI Pocket 2 as a necessary tool in their toolbelt. With excellent image stabilization and a compact package, you can store this gimbal camera in your hip bag and quickly pull it out to get a compelling shot.
Olympus Tough TG-6
Key technical specs:
- Price: $499.99
- Type: compact
- Skill level required: none
- Megapixels: 12.7
- Durability: waterproof up to 15 meters, dustproof, shockproof
What we love
This camera can truly go anywhere without consequence. It’s antifreeze down to -10 degrees fahrenheit, anti-shock up to 2.1 meters, and anti-fog so you can take this bad boy underwater. Want to capture the lesser-seen underwater world of alpine lakes or skin-up epic snowy mountain peaks, snagging some photo evidence of all the type 2 fun? This rugged camera is meant for you.
What we don’t
You can’t swap lenses so you lose a little versatility in image composition.
Product Review:
This camera was designed for the beginner photographer, expert adventurer who will be pushing their own physical limits while still wanting to capture cool pictures. With 2.0 – 4.9mm lens and image stabilization, you can capture a lot of different images while on the move. Out of the waterproof cameras on the market, the Olympus Tough actually takes stunning photos underwater.
GoPro Hero 9 Black
Key technical specs:
- Price: $299 – $399
- Type: action camera
- Skill level required: none
- Megapixels: 23.6
- Durability: ultra rugged and waterproof
- Lens: 15mm 2.8 prime lens
What we love
GoPro is the name of the adventure film game. These cameras are made to strap on to helmets, surfboards, ski tips, mountain bike handlebars, and more. This camera will be able to take a beating and still provide high quality images and footage.
What we don’t
Because it’s made to be small, lightweight and incredibly durable, the lens and the body are encased, meaning you can’t swap out the lens or adjust settings. GoPro makes it easy to point, shoot, and go but not adjust settings to account for low light.
Product Review:
With a rear touch screen, the GoPro Hero 9 is super simple to use. You’ll basically just unbox it, charge it up, and take off. While it’s known for taking 5k video, you’ll be surprised at how high quality its stills are. Record time lapses of sunsets or easily snap a shot of your buddy summiting the peak.
Intermediate-Level Cameras for Hiking
For hiking enthusiasts that want to do a little more than come home with cool photos, these cameras are still affordable and not insanely complex. You can find plenty of resources to learn how to use each so you can feel confidence getting the shot.
Panasonic Lumix FZ2500
Key technical specs:
- Price: $997
- Type: fixed-lens, DSLR-style body
- Skill level required: beginner – intermediate
- Megapixels: 21.1 megapixels
- Durability: rugged
- Lens: fixed
What we love
For under $1,000, you get a reliable, easy-to-use camera with a built-in lens. You can learn to adjust your settings, like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO without having to then toy with how varying lenses affect the look of your photos. This DSLR-style camera is lightweight but gives you more autonomy than a typical point-and-shoot.
What we don’t
It’s not customizable. If you get really into photography and start to learn more, you’ll want to level up pretty quickly.
Product Review:
This packable, 2-pound camera fits easily into your pack without the fragility of a detachable lens. At 30 frames per second and 4K shooting mode, you can take stellar videos as well as photos. Focus stacking allows for the photographer to take different images at varying focal depths, then the camera does the work of blending them together for a clear, sharp photo.
Nikon Z50
Key technical specs:
- Price: $859.95
- Type: mirrorless
- Skill level required: intermediate
- Megapixels: 21 megapixels
- Durability: weather-sealing
- Lens: F mount
What we love
The Nikon Z50 is less than one pound, making it an easy decision to bring on any day hike or even overnight backpacking excursion.
What we don’t
There’s no GPS, so if you’re big on details to go along with each image, this may not be the camera for you. Additionally, the auto focus is a little clunky.
Product Review:
The Nikon Z50 is easy and approachable for beginner to intermediate photographers. Designed for action photography, with the right lens, this camera can capture moving wildlife, far off scenery, and large panoramic landscapes. Nikon has long made consistently high-quality products and offers great customer service should you need it.
Best Budget Camera for Hiking
Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80
Technical Specifications
- Price: $397
- Type: compact
- Skill level required: beginner/intermediate to make full use out of it
- Megapixels: 18.1 megapixels
- Durability: pretty durable because of the compact body
- Lens: 20-1200mm superzoom lens
What we love
For an all-in-one, point-and-shoot, the Panasonic Lumix is a great budget camera that can snap some high-quality, high-resolution photos.
What we don’t
You can’t build upon the skills you develop with this camera because you can’t swap out lenses. If you’re looking to get an entry level camera body that you can add nicer lenses to later on, this isn’t it.
Product Overview/Review:
Similar to the other Panasonic Lumix on this list, the DC-FZ80 is a point and shoot camera with focus stack. The zoom lens allows for long-range shots and this camera performs spectacularly in low-light.
Canon EOS Rebel T7
Key technical specs:
- Price: $499
- Type: DSLR
- Skill level required: enthusiast, willingness to learn camera settings
- Megapixels: 24.1 megapixels
- Durability: slightly water-resistant
- Lens: EF mount
What we love
We love how easy the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is to use, even for relative beginners. There is so much literature out there for this type of camera, new users can consume a plethora of information and be able to ues the camera very well, right off the bat.
What we don’t
Once you take your SLR skills to new heights, you may want to sell the rebel body, with a crop sensor, and get a full frame camera.
Product Overview/Review:
Canon’s Rebel series are all good-quality camera bodies that allow the photographer to custom fit with various lenses. The display is easy to see while the controls are simple and straightforward. The 9-point automatic focus lets you get comfortable adjusting settings without having to concentrate on focusing on your subject matter too. Compared to others on this list, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is situated at a reasonable price, letting you save on the body but splurge on nice Canon lenses.
Sony ZV-1
Key technical specs:
- Price: $749
- Type: compact
- Skill level required: intermediate
- Megapixels: 20.1 megapixels
- Durability: no weather sealing
- Lens: compact, 24 – 70mm zoom lens
What we love
We love the articulating display screen that makes it easy to snap selfies that don’t look like selfies. Group shots on top of the summit? Easy to do with the Sony ZV-1.
What we don’t
With the widest focal length of 24mm, you can create compelling images and videos but some photographers will want to be able to go wider.
Product Overview/Review:
Image stabilization and interval shooting set this camera apart from those in the beginner section. The Sony ZV-1 was designed with vloggers in mind but it works insanely well for hikers who want to snap photos and record videos. Wi-fi allows for easy file transfer while the built-in ND filter helps when shooting in bright sunlight. This compact body style packs and handles easily so you can bring it along on backpacking trips.
Advanced Cameras for Hiking
The cameras in this section are more expensive, more complex, and often utilized by professional photographers. That’s because each offers the most versatility when shooting, allowing the photographer to take a dynamic range of photos.
That being said, anyone can opt for one of these cameras and commit to learning how to use them. Ultimately, any camera can be a backpacking camera, depending on an individuals desired photo gear. There are a plethora of YouTube resources that offer instruction on each of these cameras. Additionally, these cameras make the “best of” lists each year and aren’t specific to hiking. Each of these options can create beautiful images and allow you to expand your photo skill set.
Sony A7 IV
Key technical specs:
- Price: $2,498
- Type: mirrorless
- Skill level required: intermediate to advanced
- Megapixels: 33 megapixels
- Durability: no weather sealing
What we love
Sony wasn’t always a major player in the camera game, but over the past decade, this technology company has stepped up and can compete easily with Nikon, Canon, and Fujifilm. This camera is so versatile and can take a wide array of photos and videos, with ease. The autofocus is precise while its 4K shooting abilities make it an excellent choice for videographers.
What we don’t
The price tag can be a big commitment for intermediate photographers looking to level up their skill set. Even among the expensive cameras, this one is at the top of the list. We believe it’s worth it, but it’s a big financial leap.
Product Overview/Review:
This full-frame sensor camera has the ability to shoot footage in 4K and auto focus within 94% of the frame. That means the photographer can set the camera to autofocus, set the aperture to the desired f stop, and rest assured that what they want in focus will be clear and crisp. Sony has a large lens library which allows this camera to really be your last stop, if you’re wanting to continue honing your photography skills.
Canon EOS R6
Key technical specs:
- Price: $2,499
- Type: DSLR
- Skill level required: intermediate to advanced
- Megapixels: 20 megapixels
- Durability: no weatherproofing
What we love
Canon’s cameras are really approachable. Even their top-of-the-line camera bodies are easier to figure out than many Sonys and Nikons.
What we don’t
Again, the price tag is high, but for good reason. If we purchased this camera for hiking purposes, we’d definitely get it insured.
Product Overview/Review:
The Canon EOS R6 autofocus covers 100% of the frame and is trustworthy even in ultra low light situations. Head and eye detection as well as animal detection mean that you can snap shots of your beloved hiking pals (furry too) and know they will be in focus. In-body image stabilization prevents the dreaded shake and allows for clearer shooting without a tripod at a lower shutter speed.
Nikon Z6 II
Key technical specs:
- Price: $1,899
- Type: mirrorless
- Skill level required: intermediate to advanced
- Megapixels: 24.5
- Durability: no weather sealing
What we love
This high-tech camera is more affordable than others in the advanced section of this list. It is a fantastic option for photo and video, meaning you can level up your skills in both creative sectors.
What we don’t
The Z6 II isn’t that much of an upgrade from the Z6, and it’s $400 more expensive. If you need dual card slots, a USB power delivery, and vertical grip, then it’s worth it.
Product Overview/Review:
The Nikon Z6 II full-frame sensor camera can take shots in half the light required by its predecessor. You can better capture starry night skies or buddies around a bonfire with this camera. Comfortable, ergonomic controls and a pro-level grip make vertical shots easier. An energy saving mode for still photography and a USB battery port allow you to hook this camera up to your solar charger and keep shooting.
Quick Guide: Top 5 Cameras for Hiking on This List
- Sony A7 IV
- Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G
- Canon EOS Rebel T7
- iPhone 14 ProMax
- Nikon Z50
Photography Tips to Capture Quality Images
Keep your lens clean
This goes for any type of camera lens. Photo quality depends on a clean camera lens. Carry a makeup brush with you so you can first dust off your lens before wiping with a simple lens cleaning cloth. For expensive lenses with high-quality class, they’ll pick up little flecks on the camera and give you more work during the editing process.
Hold still
For long-exposure shots (like those pretty blurry-water photos or starry night images), get a tripod. Your hand simply cannot hold the camera still enough at a shutter-speed lower than 1/30. Consider a collapsible, light-weight tripod for overnight excursions.
Find the light
Photography is all about light. Photo quality is based upon the presence or absence of light, and its manipulation by the photographer. If you really want to walk away with gorgeous photos, schedule your hikes for early morning or late afternoon to catch the best light. Harsh, overhead sun washes people, plants, and animals out. You’ll find more interesting shadows when the sun sits lower in the sky.
Explore Manual Mode while Off-Trail
Play around with the camera’s settings when you’re at home. Practice shooting with different light sources – i.e. the sun, fluorescent light, indirect light, and low-light. Mastering your camera’s manual mode will allow you to have the most control over your photos’ compositions.
Prepare ahead of time
You don’t need to prepare to take pictures ahead of time, but you should make sure your gear is all squared away before hitting the trail. Charge up your spare batteries, throw in an extra SD card, adjust your settings for natural light, and head out on your backpacking trip.
A Hiking camera will allow you to capture so many incredible moments in nature that you can only achieve via your own two feet. Plus, photography has a way of making us slow down, drink in the moment, and see things from a whole new perspective. This guide will help you choose the right camera for you to bring those sights one-of-a-kind home.
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