What’s the Best Camera for Close Up Shots? Detailed Reviews

Over the years, cameras for taking close up shots, otherwise known as macro cameras, have grown tremendously in popularity. This is because macro photography is an easy-going genre whereby a novice would simply pick up a camera and get down to the shooting business.

Taking close up shots gets you closer to the tiniest subject and gives you a better view of the finer details.

Getting the best camera for close up shots may be a complicated affair for some of you, and that is why we have come up with this article to help you out.

We have done all the hard work for you, including pointing out the factors that you need to focus on as you shop for the ideal product. These factors include:

• The quality of the lenses
• Sensitivity to light
• The construction
• User-friendliness, just to mention a few

Before we discuss these factors in detail, you may also check out the following brands of cameras that we have reviewed with the hope that you may find your ideal match on the list.

Top-Rated Cameras for Close Up Shots: Comparison Table

The following section contains the 12 leading models of cameras for Close Up photography. We have gone ahead and done extensive reviews for you.

1. Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless 24.3MP Digital Camera

When you ask any experienced photographer about the Sony Alpha a6000, there is a high chance that the first thing they would mention would be the powerful CMOS sensor.

With 24.3 megapixels, this is a unit that rarely disappoints.

There are a couple of other features that would make this camera a reasonable pick. Let’s start with the 25 contrast-detect points that ensure all the shots you end up with are nothing but of outstanding quality.

What’s more is the 179 point AF system that does a great job in tracking the subject, even if it is a fast-moving one.

You may also appreciate the versatility that this camera offers courtesy of the E-mount system and the interchangeable lenses.

Besides the camera, the package includes a USB cable, Shoulder strap, Rechargeable battery, and an Eyepiece cup.

Pros

• User-friendly LCD
• Powerful CMOS sensor
• Compact unit

Cons

• Expensive

2. Nikon D850 FX-Format DSLR Camera Body

If you feel like standing out from the crowd, the Nikon D850 will go a long way in helping you achieve this goal.

For starters, it features a 45.7MP sensor, which is more than capable of delivering clear and high-quality shots.

Then, the 9FPS continuous shooting is also decent while you also have the option of getting some high-quality 4K footage.

Further, the D850 also offers the 120FPS slow-motion mode at 1080P, which is sure to give you some high-quality recordings.

Let’s not leave out the “Focus Shift Shooting” function that helps in extending your field of depth.

One thing you may appreciate with this camera is how tiny and compact it is such that you would have an easy time holding it firmly in your hands.

There is also the tilting touchscreen LCD that should give you an easy time taking shots from both high or low angles.

The last bit is the -4EV autofocus that makes the camera an outstanding performer even in low light conditions.

Pros

• Good grip
• A leader in continuous shooting
• Outstanding resolution

Cons

• Lies in the pricey side

3. Panasonic Lumix FZ80 Digital Camera

The Lumix FZ80 by Panasonic is a point and shoot camera that resembles a DSLR, plus it features a zoom lens.

This lens has an equivalent focal length of 20-1200mm and should deliver high-quality far off moments.

This camera has an 18.1MP sensor that is ideal for capturing high-resolution images. On top of that is the built-in Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS) that helps in enhancing the quality of the shots.

Let’s also discuss the 3-inch touchscreen LCD that gives you an easy time in setting the controls and reviewing the shots you have taken.

What’s more, is the built-in DFD focusing system that enhances the camera’s ability to capture high-quality images at a higher speed.

Last but not least is the USB slot for easier charging while the Wi-Fi connectivity adds to its convenience.

Pros

• Has the OIS
• Performs even in low-light conditions
• Features travel-ready technologies

Cons

• Only for the experienced photographers

4. Canon EOS Rebel T6i DSLR

If you are just getting into photography, the Canon EOS Rebel T6i would be your perfect companion into this game. Even as an entry-level camera, the Rebel T6i is a high-quality unit with the DIGIC 6 processor that gives you a fast and highly responsive camera.

This camera features a 24.2MP sensor that captures high-quality shots with fantastic color reproduction. On top of that is the 3-inch adjustable touchscreen that allows you to set up your preferred angle for taking shots.

Another feature is the continuous shooting of 5.0fps that gives the camera the capability of capturing fast-moving subjects.

You may also appreciate the AF performance, and we could attribute this to the 19-point all cross-type AF system.

The lenses are interchangeable, and this gives the camera some level of versatility.

Other notable features include the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Has an adjustable LCD
• Interchangeable lenses

Cons

• Poor Wi-Fi functionality

5. Panasonic Lumix LX10

You may be fooled into thinking that this is an inferior camera due to its tiny size. However, as you shall see, it is packed with a host of features that would make it an outstanding performer.

First is the powerful 20.1MP sensor that is sure to deliver high-quality shots. On top of that is the outstanding stability by the OIS as well as the Vario-Summilux optical zoom that enhances stability even in zoom mode.

Even better is the remarkable performance in poorly lit conditions due to the large size of the CMOS sensor.

The 3-inch touchscreen monitor is user-friendly and offers full-frame coverage. S

Still on the screen is that it can tilt up to 180-degrees, ensuring that you can shoot from whichever angle you prefer.

Lastly, the dual-image stabilization system gives you more control over the shots you take, particularly with the camera in your hands.

Pros

• Powerful sensor
• User-friendly screen
• An impressive performer in low light conditions

Cons

• Poor autofocus

6. Nikon D7500 DX-Format DSLR

With a 20.9MP sensor and a 51-point AF system, the Nikon D7500 is a camera that would deliver the perfect shots in different lighting conditions.

The weather-sealed body is essential in ensuring that the camera does not get damaged when you decide to take photos on a rainy street.

There is also the tilting touchscreen that enables you to focus in areas with minimal spaces to maneuver.

You should also be impressed with the 8Fps continuous shooting as well as the battery life that can take up to 950 shots on a single charge.

Additionally, the ergonomic construction, as well as the deep grip, is crucial in giving you stability, especially when you are undertaking handheld shooting.

Then, the built-in Wi-Fi and the Bluetooth ensure that your camera has effortless connectivity via the Nikon SnapBridge App.

Pros

• Rugged construction
• Large and tilting touchscreen
• Awesome grip

Cons

• The connectivity via the SnapBridge app is not that great

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7. Olympus TG-5 Camera

If you would like to capture the adventurous moments as you surf in the ocean waves, the Olympus TG-5 camera is what you need. This is because it is one of the few cameras that are designed for underwater use.

Other than that, it features a powerful 12MP sensor that would deliver outstanding shots even in poorly lit conditions.

Another impressive bit with the sensor is the noise-reduction feature, which is crucial for the camera to deliver super-clear shots.

Besides being waterproof up to 50ft, the Olympus TG-5 is also shockproof from 7ft, crushproof to 220lbs, and freezeproof to 14-degrees.

The Wi-Fi connectivity and the rugged construction wrap up the list of impressive qualities that this unit holds.

Pros

• Excellent shooting speed
• Superb performer in low light conditions
• Well-made

Cons

• Poor Wi-Fi connectivity

8. Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS70S Digital Camera

Just like most other new-age Panasonic cameras, the Lumix DC-ZS70S features a 5-axis hybrid OIS that you should find useful when shooting in low light conditions.

In addition to that is the 20.3MP sensor that is quite powerful to ensure that you end up with high-resolution images.

You are also sure to appreciate the 1.166mdot electronic viewfinder at the rear plus an eye-sensor that would give you an easy time in viewing under extreme sunny conditions.

What’s more, is the LCD touchscreen that gives you an easy time in selecting your ideal focus. The screen is also the tilting type to provide more options on the shots that you wish to take.

Another feature that you may find useful is the Focus Stacking Mode that is handy in generating a larger depth of field.

Pros

• A great performer in low light conditions
• Excellent zoom power
• Tilting touchscreen

Cons

• A bit complicated to use

9. Nikon D3400 f/3.5-5.6G Camera

There are several reasons why we believe Nikon D3400 would be a viable investment for any serious photographer.

To start with, it features a CMOS 24MP sensor (DX-format), which is quite powerful, and you should expect nothing but the best performance.

Then, with a native ISO of 100-25600, the D3400 would still display its amazing quality even in poorly lit conditions.

What’s more, is the EXPEED 4 image processor that delivers high-quality footage even in the trickiest and complicated situations.

We also believe that the SnapBridge Bluetooth connectivity would be of some you to you at some point.

Pros

• Superior image processor
• Decent performance in low light conditions
• Easy to use

Cons

• Low continuous shooting power

10. Sony DSC-RX10 III Cyber Shot Camera

When you set your eyes on this Sony unit, it would be easy to see why it is often thought of as a DSLR. Other than that, it features a 20MP sensor, which is sure to deliver some fantastic shots.

Another interesting feature is the digital manual focus, which enables you to fine-tune your focus after taking your shot.

On top of that is the focus lock that prevents the camera from re-focusing after you have found your ideal spot.

The magnesium-alloy body is moisture and dust-resistant, and this helps in keeping the unit from damage.

You may also find useful the viewfinder as well as the multi-angle 3-inch LCD that gives you the option of selecting your best angle for the shot.

To wrap things up is the Wi-Fi and NFC capabilities that allow for easy connectivity to your smartphone.

Pros

• Dust and moisture-resistant body
• Smooth operability
• Large multi-angle display

Cons

• The tracking is not impressive

11. Panasonic Lumix LX10 Digital Camera

The outstanding of this camera is that it comes with a camera case as well as a 64GB SD card. This saves you the hassle and extra cost of having to buy these accessories later on.

Then, the 20MP sensor is powerful enough to ensure that you only end up with high-quality and sharp images.

Even better is that you can record 4K videos when you want. This you will do with a 3-inch LCD by your side to make things smoother.

The powerful lens is also an impressive performer in low light conditions, plus the bokeh, too, is very pleasant.

To wrap things up is the fact that this camera comes with a manufacturer’s warranty.

Pros

• Comes with a camera case and SD card
• Powerful sensor
• Performs well in low light conditions

Cons

• Has too much noise

12. Canon EOS 77D Body

The last item on our list is the Canon EOS 77D, which is more inclined to the DSLR side than the point-and-shoot cameras.

It combines the 24.2MP CMOS sensor and the DIGIC 7 processor for a fantastic resolution of the images.

As if that’s not enough, there is the 45-point AF system that makes this camera perfect for capturing fast-moving subjects.

Let’s also mention the optical viewfinder as well as the reduced glare that ensures all you get are clear and high-quality images.

Last but not least is the phase detection feature that helps you know the distance between you and your subject is plus also enables you to stay locked to it even if in motion.

Pros

• High image resolution
• Minimal glare
• Decent pricing

Cons

• Not weather- sealed

The Buying Guide

The main reason for coming up with this article was that you could know more about macro cameras so that you could easily pick the best item next time you go shopping.

So, we have decided to point out and analyze the factors that you need to place particular emphasis on to help you make an informed choice.

The Lens

It is often said that macro photography depends on the lens more than the camera itself, just to underlie how crucial this part is.

The best camera is the one whose lens can focus within a short distance. To add to this, we advise that you go for a lens that can capture images in a 1:1 ratio.

Sensor 

This is another vital element of macro photography. In this case, we recommend that you go for a large sensor of 20MP and beyond. This would make it powerful enough even to post impressive results under low-light conditions.

Note that if you intend to get extremely close to the subject, a smaller sensor would still do the job.

The Zooming Capabilities

In this case, you have two options to choose from, limited or huge zoom. The former is more useful if you want to get extremely close to the subject.

As for the latter, it would be best suited for long-distance and outdoor shots.

The build quality

A well-made camera is also essential. For starters, a rugged camera is more capable of withstanding harsh environments. On top of that, it should have a good grip and fit well in your hands.

Sensitivity to Light

A camera with a wide aperture has a greater sensitivity towards light. Further, a higher ISO is also an indicator of great sensitivity to light.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We have also compiled the following queries and their expert responses to further enhance your knowledge on the best camera for close up shots.

What are the leading brands when it comes to the best cameras for close up shots?

Some of the global leaders when it comes to cameras that you would use for close up shots include Canon, Nikon, Pentax, and Sony.

What are Macro Filters?

This is basically a magnifying glass that you would screw onto the front of your lens and aim to enhance close focusing distances.

However, you need to be keen that you get high-quality filters as they have the potential to lower the image quality.

What do I need to clean my camera lens?

Keeping your lens cleaning is essential if you want to get high quality shots. Therefore, to keep the lenses clean, it is necessary to have an air blower, cleaning wipes, cleaning fluid, and Soft-bristled brushes.

The Best Overall

In the end, we have concluded that the Sony Alpha a 6000 Mirrorless 24.3MP Digital Camera is the best of them all. It has a highly powerful sensor, does a great job of tracking moving subjects, and is also versatile.

These are just a few reasons why we believe this camera is superior to the rest on the list.

Final Thoughts

There you have it! Everything that you need to know about close-up shots cameras. After you are done with this article, there is nothing that should stop you from making an informed choice next time you go shopping for such a camera.