Best cameras for portraits

June 28, 2023

If you enjoy capturing the character and charisma of a person then the portrait genre is the one for you. While there are no specific cameras made just to shoot portraiture there are many on the market that are more favourable to this genre and include useful features that will enhance your end results. So here we round up some of our favourite choices for the best cameras for portraits and portrait photography.

When it comes to taking amazing portraits there are two aspects to take into account. The first is what type of lens you are using, and the effect this will have on your subject. To capture flattering facial features you should use a lens with a longer focal length as it compresses your subject’s features rather than emphasising them like a wide-angle lens will do.

When it comes to purchasing a new camera for your portrait photography, look at the compatible lenses available as this will have an impact on your final decision. Most portrait photographers aim to have something like a 50mm, 85mm or 100mm prime lens in their bag and possibly a 70-200mm zoom lens as well. Have a look at our guide to the best portrait lenses.

The second aspect to take into account is what image sensor type the camera supports. So, what is the best sensor size for portraits? Dreamy bokeh background blur that is desirable in portraiture photography is easier to achieve on a full frame image sensor, however that is not to say APS-C and Micro Four Thirds models should be dismissed. These types of cameras are often cheaper so work better for those on a budget, and with the right lens they are more than capable of producing excellent results.

Background blur is also affected by other factors such as how far your subject is placed from the background and your lens choice so don’t be put off by an APS-C or MFT model. For more information on sensor size, have a look at our guide to APS-C vs Full-Frame (and MFT) sensors.

Here are our top recommendations for the best cameras for portraits and portrait photography…

Get straight to the point with our quick list of the best portrait cameras:

Want to know more? Read on as we run through the full specs of every camera on our list…

Sony Alpha A6400 in hand, with 18-135mm lens. Photo credit: Andy Westlake.

At a glance:

The Sony A6400 bridges the gap between Sony’s popular full-frame compact system cameras and their APS-C line-ups. We found the 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor to produce excellent results and if used with something like a prime 50mm lens, which equates to a 80mm on full frame, you can’t really go wrong with your portraits!

When we reviewed the Sony A6400 back in 2019 we gave it 4 stars as whilst the camera performed well in terms of image quality there were a couple of niggles such as the slightly dated body design and lack of in-body image stabilisation. For under $1000/£1000 though you can’t have it all!

The Sony A6400’s AF system does a great job of focusing on your subjects eyes and not being distracted by anything else. Sony A6400 + E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS, 1/125sec at f/5.6, ISO 4000. Photo credit: Andy Westlake.

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Fujifilm X-T30 Mark II in hand, body only. Photo credit: Joshua Waller.

At a glance

The Fujifilm X-T30 II is a versatile camera that would suit any hobbyist or enthusiast portrait photographer and is the updated version to what was previously Fujifilm’s best selling and most popular camera in the X-series range, the X-T30.

For portrait photographers the 26.1MP X-Trans 4 CMOS sensor produces excellent results and the camera offers a large ISO range from ISO80 (Low), up to ISO51200 (Extended). The camera also comes with face/eye detection AF and its autofocus system, for a camera of this level, is responsive and fast to react.

The Fujifilm X-T30 II supports the X-Mount, and there are a range of Fujifilm lenses available – both premium lenses available (XF), and more affordable lenses available (XC) – as well as some options from third party manufacturers including Samyang and Tamron.

Portrait, Ben Chapman, Fujifilm X-T30 II, Photo: Joshua Waller.

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Nikon Z6 with 24-70mm f/4 lens. Photo credit: Michael Topham.

At a glance:

If you’re after a full frame mirrorless model but on a budget the Nikon Z6 is a great option for any type of portrait photographer from enthusiast to professional. If you purchase this camera new it will set you back around £1600. However, shop around the second-hand and used market and you’ll find a few options that come under the £1000 mark depending on the condition of the camera.

In our 2018 review of the Nikon Z6 we found the EXPEED 6 image processor enabled it to shoot and process images up to 12fps, which in comparison to its main market rivals at the time was considerably quicker. It also includes excellent features such as its 5-axis in-body stabilisation and 4K movie mode, which even in today’s market are highly appealing. There are a good range of Z-mount lenses available.

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Panasonic Lumix GX80. Credit: Panasonic.

At a glance:

If you’re after a Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera at a budget price, the Panasonic Lumix GX80 is a great option for portrait photographers. In our review we found the camera to be quiet and discrete, but also comfortable to hold, which makes it a fitting choice for shooting portraits on the go as in street photography, photojournalism and documentary photography.

A nice feature for portrait photographers is the face detection or subject tracking modes. They allow the camera to choose the subject from a 49-area grid spread across almost the entire frame. Alternatively, you can select the focus area manually, and there’s even a pinpoint mode for focusing on especially fine details of your subject.

When it comes to lenses the Panasonic GX80 is (or the GX85 as it is known in North America) compatible with an impressively wide range of Micro Four Thirds lenses, from both Panasonic and Olympus, as well as other brands, including Sigma, Leica, and more.

For sub £500 this camera is a great option for beginners, hobbyists and students on a budget.

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Nikon D600.

At a glance:

If having a full frame sensor is your number one priority for shooting portraits but you’re on a tight budget then a second-hand Nikon D600 should be on your radar. When this camera was launched back in 2012 it was a £2000 camera – now a second-hand model can be picked up between £324 and £369 depending on the camera’s condition.

In our review of the Nikon D600 we found images were high in detail and to remain low in noise. Although camera technology has greatly progressed over the past decade if you’re after a simple no thrills full frame shooter to create beautifully blurred backgrounds then this is a solid choice. There are still plenty of Nikon DSLR compatible lenses on the market and second-hand options too so you won’t be disappointed.

Find the best Nikon F-Mount lenses.

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Canon EOS R10. Photo credit: Andy Westlake.

At a glance:

For any beginner who wants to take the next step and upgrade to a mirrorless model the Canon EOS R10 is a great option. This camera is one of the smaller and lighter mirrorless cameras in the Canon collection and includes a host of features that will be useful for the portrait genre. This includes a large ISO range and 23fps burst mode.

Stand out features of the Canon EOS R10 include the superb autofocus system and opportunity to shoot high quality video (Full HD shooting at up to 120fps). It’s also possible to record 4K video at 60fps with a 1.6x crop.

This entry level model will attract both APS-C DSLR shooters who want to move to mirrorless and smartphone shooters wanting to progress with their portrait photography.

The camera’s AF system will focus on the camera’s eye, leaving you free to concentrate on composition. Canon EOS R10, Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM at 140mm, 1/1000sec at f/5, ISO 3200.

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Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV in hand. Photo: Andy Westlake.

At a glance:

For any budding portrait photographer the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is an excellent choice. This camera sits at the entry point level of the OM-D range and includes some excellent features, such as the enhanced face and eye priority autofocus to ensure you capture pinpoint sharp results.

The weight of this camera is a mere 383g and other stand out features such as the 121-point contrast-detect AF system and 5-axis in-body stabilisation all perform well and enhance the shooting experience.

If you’re interested to see what else Olympus has to offer check out our guide to the best Olympus cameras.

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Sony Alpha A7R IV with lens. Photo credit: Michael Topham.

At a glance:

If you’re after a full frame large resolution camera for your portraiture photography you can’t go wrong with the Sony A7R IV. This camera supports a whopping 61MP full-frame CMOS sensor and includes a burst mode shooting capability of 10fps, which as a package is pretty impressive.

In our 2019 review we awarded the Sony A7R IV with a top 5 stars and for good reason. We found the image quality to be remarkable and the dynamic range to be astonishing too. At the low end of the ISO range the ability to pull out immense detail from dark shadows without excessive noise creeping in was noted.

We were also impressed by its AI-based real-time autofocus, and when tested on a portrait shoot it accurately demonstrated how good it was at identifying a face within the frame and immediately locked onto the eyes.

For any pro or serious portrait hobbyist photographer the Sony A7R IV should be at the top of your list.

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Canon EOS R5. Photo credit: Andy Westlake.

At a glance:

The Canon EOS R5 is another cracker of a camera and full of outstanding features that any pro or serious enthusiast will appreciate. These includes the 45MP full frame Dual Pixel CMOS AF sensor that performs superbly, and the way the R5 handles noise at high sensitivity settings. You can expect clean, noise-free images between ISO 50 and ISO 800. Luminance noise starts to appear at ISO 1600, however it’s only apparent when you examine images critically at 100% magnification.

Compared with lower end mirrorless Canon cameras the R5 is far more responsive at identifying people’s eyes and faces from greater distance, and the AF select button and joystick can be used to prioritise which face or eye you’d like the camera to focus on.

If the Canon EOS R5 is way off your budget but you want to stick with the same brand look at the Canon EOS RP instead as this is a budget friendly full frame option. It doesn’t compete with the R5 in terms of features and image quality, however it is by far cheaper.

Read our Canon EOS R5 review

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Nikon Z7 II with 24-70mm f/2.8 lens. Photo credit: Michael Topham.

At a glance:

The Nikon Z7 II is a beast of a camera and although spec wise it falls below Nikon’s high end Z9 in terms of video quality and continuous burst mode speed, it packs the same 45.7MP resolution and is capable of producing top notch results. When you compare the price of the Z9 (£5,299) and Nikon Z7 II (£2,699) the latter seems like a great deal.

To entice the portrait photographer the Z7 II includes 493 focus points and is fast to focus and process images. When we tested the camera in December 2020 we found its face and eye detection feature to be incredibly effective and were also impressed by the image detail and astonishing dynamic range that the camera can produce.

For any portrait photographer whether professional or enthusiast the Nikon Z7 II is an excellent choice.

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Panasonic Lumix S5. Photo credit: Michael Topham.

At a glance:

If you’re buying on a budget but after a full frame mirrorless camera then the Panasonic Lumix S5 is a strong contender. This camera comes with a 24.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor and includes features such as dual memory card slots and 4K video.

In our review we found the AF system easy to control and the joystick and AF-ON buttons well positioned for fast adjustment. When it came to ISO performance the S5 produced crisp details at low ISO sensitivity settings although noise did start to creep in a little at ISO 3200 and ISO 6400. However as our reviewer points out the fine detail that is resolved at these settings is impressive.

The Panasonic Lumix S5 is a good alternative for portrait photographers that have a budget up to £2000. It’s also good to note the S5 is supported by an ever-growing range of L-mount lenses from Panasonic, Leica and Sigma.

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Image credit: Andy Westlake

At a glance:

The Fujifilm X-T5 is a camera that delivers an all-round package for enthusiast photographers while being a more affordable option. Among its key strengths are a reliable AF system, ability to shoot high quality images at high ISO and effective image stabilisation.

In our review of the Fujifilm X-T5 we said that ‘It’s uniquely enjoyable to shoot with, thanks to its analogue controls, excellent viewfinder, and 3-way tilting screen. Secondly, it delivers superb image quality, with stacks of resolution if you need it, plenty of dynamic range, good high-ISO performance and effective image stabilisation. Plus, of course, that lovely Fujifilm colour rendition.’

You have to pre-select the subject type – the X-T5 can’t recognise animals and birds at the same time. Fujifilm XF 70-300mm F4-5.6 R LM OIS WR at 240mm, 1/5000sec at f/5.6, ISO 8000.

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Fujifilm X-T4 in-hand with 50mm f1 lens. Photo credit: Andy Westlake

At a glance:

The Fujifilm X-T4 is a great camera that will appeal to a wide range of portrait shooters. One of the most impressive features is its autofocus performance that is lighting quick to respond. For any portrait photographer trying to capture a fast moving subject like a child this will add some reassurance that you’re going to achieve sharp results.

In our review we also found the face and eye detection to be fully responsive when shooting portraits in the burst mode, which comes in handy when you’re working under pressure and want to maximise your hit rate of sharp shots on the eyes.

Another key strength of the X-T4’s image quality performance is the way it handles noise and preserves detail up to its native ceiling of ISO 12,800.

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Nikon Z50 in hand with lens. Photo credit: Michael Topham

At a glance:

The Nikon Z50 is a 5 star camera and includes many features that will impress the portrait shooter like a tilting touchscreen, 11fps burst mode, and a 20.9MP APS-C sensor. The Nikon Z50 is compatibile Nikon’s range of Z-Mount lenses, and in their current Nikkor Z mount lens collection Nikon have three DX format lenses and 26 FX format mirrorless lenses that are still compatible with the DX sensor. You can also use F mount lenses with a FTZ adapter, giving you more options when it comes to lens choice.

The Nikon Z50 will appeal to beginners and enthusiasts wanting to progress with their photography without having to cost a fortune. In our 2019 review we found the electronic viewfinder and responsive touchscreen to enhance the shooting experience, and was impressed by the 11fps continuous shooting and responsive autofocus system.

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Nikon D850 full-frame DSLR. Photo credit: Michael Topham

At a glance:

Still a favourite amongst many DSLR shooters, the Nikon D850 is a superb camera. Even at a time where mirrorless is taking over, this camera holds its own and is still used by many pros. This mainly comes down to its massive 45.7MP full frame image sensor that captures outstanding images, and other enticing features such as silent shooting in Liveview mode, a fast AF system and a wide ISO range.

This camera is ideal for any type of portrait shooter from those going on location to those shooting in a studio. On the downside the body is considerably heavier compared with most mirrorless models, however on the plus side the battery life lasts far longer and the camera is considerably cheaper than the higher end mirrorless cameras. For those on a budget a second hand model can be picked up for under £2,000 which is an absolute bargain!

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Canon EOS 90D. Photo credit: Michael Topham.

At glance:

The Canon EOS 90D is marketed by Canon at wildlife photographers, however we think this APS-C DSLR will also appeal to portrait shooters for a number of reasons. Firstly the 32.5-million-pixel CMOS sensor performs superbly and captures detailed images. The camera is also fast to focus and also includes a burst mode feature that is capable of firing off 10fps. This is great for capturing those action portraits of children playing or running around.

Ergonomically, the 90D feels great too. We found in our review the large handgrip lets you wrap your hand around it to get a secure hold. This is useful when shooting using a heavier lens such as a 70-200mm f/2.8.

Although we are still not sure of the future of DSLRs, for the time being there are still plenty of compatible lenses with this system whether you buy new or second hand. To get the most from the 90D you’ll want to invest in some better EF-mount glass as the kit lens it is sold with will not deliver the best image quality.

The Canon EOS 90D is one of the best enthusiast DSLRs around at the moment and for the price you get plenty of camera for your money.

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Once you’ve found the best cameras for portraits, have a look at our guides to great portrait photography:

Complete guide to portrait photography

Fine art portrait photography

Best portrait advice from the pros

The best lenses for portrait photography

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Claire Gillo is a creative brand, commercial product and event photographer based in South Devon. She shoots all types of genres from portraits, music, interior, product to food & drink. Claire has much experience in the publishing industry too, and has worked across many of the big photography magazine publication titles from Amateur Photographer to Digital Camera. Find out more about her at www.clairegillo.com and follow her on Instagram @clairegillophotography.