Best Camera for Landscape Photography in 2024

When photographing landscapes, every pixel counts. Whether you intend to print your images or simply share them on social media, choosing the right camera to capture the world in all its glory is important.

Sure, you could probably use any camera for landscape photography. You can even use your smartphone if you like – it doesn’t take a fancy camera to produce a great photo, after all.

However, if you’re keen to make the most of those dramatic vistas, sunsets, and waterfalls, take some time to learn more about the cameras recommended by professional landscape photographers in this guide.

You should also read our guide to choosing the best lens for landscape photography.

Best Landscape Cameras in 2024

1. Sony A7R V

Credit: Daniel Stark

• Dimensions: 138.4 x 102.5 x 81.5 mm (5.45 x 4.03 x 3.21 in)
• Weight: 721 g (1.59 lbs)

This is one of the best cameras for landscape photography.

The Sony A7R V is the newest full-frame mirrorless camera released in 2022. It maintains the astonishing 61 MP resolution from its predecessor, but it’s combined with a new AI processing unit.

If 61 MP isn’t enough, the A7R V also has an improved Pixel Shift Multi Shooting mode that can churn images up to 240.8MP.

Unlike the A7R IV, you can now use this feature even when there are moving subjects because it can detect and correct them. We speak of slight motion, though, such as falling tree leaves.

If you’re including wildlife in your scene, you should know that the Sony A7R V has a 40% improvement over the Sony A7R IV in animal eye-tracking. Plus, it can track animals even if they’re facing away.

This is on top of its 693 autofocus points and the ability of the AI processor to recognize more types of animals and their facial features. This is even in low-light situations (-4EV), such as the fading light of the blue hour!

Speaking of low light, the Sony A7R V has a wide standard ISO of 100-32000 that expands to 50-102,400. Even using high ISO values, the images are of the highest quality with very low noise.

It also comes with a full 15 stops of dynamic range to deliver highly detailed images even in low light and high contrast lighting situations. Learn more about why dynamic range is important here.

You’d usually shoot landscape scenes with a tripod. However, the A7R V’s 5-axis in-body image stabilization will let you shoot hand-held up to 8 stops higher than you would otherwise. This way, you’ll never miss a moment even if you haven’t set up yet.

Speaking of setting up, the Sony A7R V features a new 4-axis multi-angle LCD monitor, making you comfortable even in tricky terrain or shooting from a low angle.

The A7R V has a focus-bracketing feature that’s extremely handy to capture fully sharp landscapes.

Sony’s been cranking out top-quality E-mount lenses consistently over the last few years, and now there’s an excellent selection of Sony lenses to choose from.

You can make the most of the camera’s resolution when shooting with these full-frame lenses, but you can also shoot with APS-C and capture amazingly detailed 26MP photos.

The A7R V has a dust- and moisture-resistant magnesium alloy exterior body, so you can be confident when using it in harsh weather.

The 10fps continuous shooting speed is certainly fast enough for most wildlife photography needs, and the improved focus and tracking features will keep your subject tack sharp.

Like the other A7s, the battery life of the Sony A7R V is amazing (440-530 shots per charge). Even with a heavy shutter finger, most landscape photographers can go a whole a day or two without having to change batteries.

In the end, though, what you’ll be coming back to is the amazing images and superior amount of detail this camera can capture. The transitions from shadows to mid-tones and from mid-tones to highlights are seamless (i.e. the dynamic range), without any help from ND filters or post-processing.

At a price of around US$3,500, the A7R V is far less expensive and much more portable than many medium-format cameras. In fact, the Sony A7R V is actually the smallest and lightest of the interchangeable lens cameras on this list.

On top of all this, the A7R V is simply fun. It’s easy to use, fast, performs well at just about everything, and has an image quality that will make you want to print billboards left and right from your images. The menu system isn’t the best, but with everything else this camera has to offer, it’s hard to care.

All in all, the Sony A7R IV is not just our top pick for the best landscape camera of 2024; it’s also an excellent all-around camera that will excel no matter what your subject.

2. Fujifilm GFX 100S

• Dimensions: 150 mm x 104 mm x 87 mm (5.91 x 4.09 x 3.43 in)
• Weight: 900 g (3.09 lbs)

If you need more than 61MP and you don’t want to resort to composited images, a medium format camera is the solution.

In previous years, we recommended the Fujifilm GFX 50R, which has now been discontinued. However, if you can find it, it’s still a great option if you want to stay on a lower budget.

Our updated recommendation is the Fujifilm GFX 100S. This camera offers 102MP on a full 43.8 x 32.9mm medium-format sensor. Using the Pixel Shift Multi-Shot, it reaches 400MP.

It also features a quad-core X processor 4. Therefore, it’s ideal for producing large-format quality prints.

A bigger sensor is not just about a higher resolution; it also captures more details and has a bigger dynamic range. Also, you have more flexibility when cropping details from your images.

The Fujifilm GFX 100S sensor also reproduces colors with high accuracy and can register RAW and TIFF files at 16 bits.

You can also choose from the 19 exclusive Fujifilm film simulations based on the original Fuji films to recreate specific looks based on tones and colors.

While a medium format camera holds a bigger sensor, the Fujifilm GFX 100S compares to some high-end DSLR and mirrorless cameras in size and weight. All in all, it’s designed to balance performance and portability with an ergonomic grip.

The camera is also built to withstand long outdoor shootings as it’s weather-sealed and rated to operate down to -10ºC (14ºF), making it excellent for field use. You can carry the Fujifilm GFX 100S without worries.

Also, you can be ready at any time because, while it’s always recommended to do landscape photography with a tripod, the Fujifilm GFX 100S has a 6-stop, 5-axis stabilization system.

The Fujifilm GFX 100S has a 15-stop dynamic range, so you can capture plenty of detail in the highly contrasted situations often encountered in landscape photography. Thanks to this, you won’t even need a graduated ND filter.

However, if you’re using ND filters, the EVF and low light focusing are so good you can often meter, set the exposure, and focus on a subject without taking off a 10-stop ND filter.

The files from long exposures are amazingly clean and noise-free, making this one of the top cameras for long-exposure landscape photography at night.

As far as price is concerned, the Fujifilm’s GFX 100S triumphs over other the other mirrorless medium formats on the market. At around US$4,999, it’s more affordable than the Fujifilm GFX 100 II and it’s just as powerful for landscape photography.

Now, to the real meat: why is this the best camera for landscape photography if you have the budget? Image quality.

The detail is superb, especially when it comes to surface texture. The images have outstanding sharpness and clarity. Photos taken with this camera are literally just stunning.

One bonus for long exposure photographers is the ability to dial in manual exposures of up to an hour without switching to Bulb mode with an electronic and mechanical shutter. It also has the option of an electronic front curtain shutter.

If you’re looking for an all-around camera, though, Fujifilm’s GFX 100S is probably not it. It excels at landscape photography (or photography where the subject is not moving). The autofocus, while highly accurate, is slow.

It also only shoots from 2 to 5 fps depending on the mode, up to 16-45 raw files depending on the speed and shutter.

This won’t bother the more methodical photographer or one who prefers manual focus, but if you’re looking for something that is “speedy” you’d be better off with the Sony A7R V.

Another (potential) disadvantage is that there is currently a rather limited range of native lenses. Still, the essentials are now available and are all of excellent quality. Since you’re not looking for snappy autofocus with this camera, third party lenses via adaptors also work great.

(Check out our guide to the best lenses for the GFX 100S here.)

One place where Fujifilm’s GFX 100S beats out the Sony A7R V (other than in sensor size) is in the menu system, which is intuitive and easy to use. The buttons and functions are also highly customizable.

If you’re a fan of manual dials and how Fujifilm cameras feel in hand, the Fujifilm’s GFX 100S doesn’t disappoint there, either. In fact, many photographers choose Fujifilm’s GFX 100S on ergonomics alone.

3. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

Credit: Jay Cassario

• Dimensions: 151 x 116 x 76 mm (5.94 x 4.57 x 2.99 in)
• Weight: 890 g (1.96 lbs)

If you’re looking for a high-quality landscape photography camera with a smaller price tag, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is the way to go. It’s also a great choice for those who prefer DSLR cameras over mirrorless ones.

On a previous round-up, we recommended the Canon EOS 5DS R as it has a higher resolution of 50.6MP, but it has since been discontinued.

Not to worry, though. While it has a lower resolution, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV performs better in low-light situations and has a better dynamic range. After all, these qualities are highly valued in landscape photography.

If you’re within the Canon ecosystem but want to switch to mirrorless cameras, please check the EOS R system. However, these cameras will raise the price tag again.

Now, back to the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV. While it’s not Canon’s newest DSLR, it remains the highest-resolution model still in production. Its 30.4MP sensor features larger pixels, enabling it to capture more light compared to higher-resolution cameras.

In fact, the pixel pitch of the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is 5.36µm compared to the 3.76µm of the Sony A7R V. As a result, the dynamic range of the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is remarkable and has excellent low-light performance.

To this end, it also features an ISO range of 100 to 32000, expandable to 50-102400 with an enhanced noise processing algorithm.

Like most of the other cameras on this list, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is meant for professional landscape photographers who love to make high-quality prints.

Bumping up to the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, you’ll notice your work immediately gaining in clarity and definition. You’ll also see the level of detail nearly jump off the page, with no need to sharpen images in Photoshop after the fact.

In fact, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV was the first Canon camera to feature the Dual Pixel RAW format that allows you to adjust or correct the point of sharpness in post-processing.

The autofocus is another feature that stands out in low-light conditions as it allows you to focus even under moonlight at EV -3 and EV -4, depending on whether you use the viewfinder or the LIVE mode.

Speaking of autofocus, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has 61 points/41 cross-type to improve its precision. It also has a good subject detection and tracking system in case you’re also shooting wildlife.

Of course, the age here starts to show as it’s not so much compared to other choices on this list. However, you won’t use this feature in landscape photography as much.

One of the biggest advantages of DSLRs vs mirrorless cameras is the battery life. The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV works out up to 900 shots per battery charge, compared to the 400 of the Fujifilm’s GFX 100S and 530 of the Sony A7R IV.

Another advantage of choosing a DSLR system is the huge availability of lenses you have to choose from – both from Canon and from third parties.

Perhaps the biggest reason to go with the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is the wide selection of top-quality lenses for landscape photography. Literally the best in the industry. From the super wide Canon EF 11-24mm f/4L USM to the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM, you just can’t go wrong.

Canon also has a number of excellent tilt-shift lenses available.

In landscape photography, ruggedness and durability are very important. The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV shines here. Its tough magnesium alloy construction and excellent weather sealing make it pretty much bomb-proof outdoors.

For a lot of photographers, the solidness of the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV’s grip and the way the camera body feels in the hand makes up for the lower resolution.

As far as price is concerned, at around US$1,700 the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is way below the first options on this list. So, it’s also a great way to start if you don’t have a big budget.

You’ll love the impressive image quality – more than enough to print billboard-sized images – and the rock-solid durability of Canon’s 5D line really shines.

4. Nikon D850

• Dimensions: 146 x 124 x 78.5 cm (5.8 x 4.9 x 3.1 in.)
• Weight: 915 g (32.3 oz)

Since we’re talking about DSLRs, Nikon also has a star performer in the landscape photography world – the Nikon D850.

It’s a touch more expensive than the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV (around US$2,200), but it has more resolution and a better battery life.

The Nikon D850 (here’s our full review) sports a 45.7 MP full-frame sensor, which is more than enough for top-rate large-scale prints.

If you do an intense amount of low-light shooting and like to max out your ISO, the Nikon D850’s 64-25600 ISO (expands to 32-102400) is more than enough for stellar work.

In fact, the base ISO of 64 of the D850 (and the D810, its predecessor) is the lowest of any DSLR or mirrorless camera on the market.

Nikon is mostly focusing on their Z-series mirrorless camera models now, but there’s definitely nothing wrong with opting for a DSLR like the Nikon D850 here in 2024. For one, native lens options are far more numerous and affordable.

While it’s not the newest technology, the autofocus of the Nikon D850 is still quite impressive in its speed and more than enough for a general-use camera, let alone for landscape photography.

As far as the build is concerned, if you’re already a Nikon shooter, the Nikon D850 will feel like an old friend. The proven Nikon ergonomics feel good in the hand, even to new users, and its button layout is both intuitive and comfortable. The buttons are also illuminated, which helps with changing settings when you’re out shooting at dusk or at night.

Other features DSLR users will appreciate are the substantially larger articulating LCD screen and a top LCD. If you prefer to use the viewfinder, you’ll find the Nikon D850’s beautifully bright and detailed, offering a prime view of the landscape before you.

For those who use strong ND filters, the Nikon D850 also has a built-in eyepiece shutter to prevent light leakage.

Another feature of note is the Nikon D850’s incredible battery life – 1840 shots compared to the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV’s mere 900 shots. This can make a huge difference when out in the field. It also has excellent weather sealing.

As far as in-camera features are concerned, the Nikon D850 doesn’t disappoint. It comes with all the features you would expect, plus a 7 fps burst mode, focus bracketing, and an exceptional 8k time-lapse mode.

Another serious plus is the rich selection of high-quality lenses to choose from. There are 304 lenses for Nikon D850’s Nikon F mount to choose from, 101 of which have optical image stabilization. This is helpful since the Nikon D850 doesn’t have its own in-camera stabilization.

Nikon also has a wide array of high-end tilt-shift lenses. So you won’t be lacking in options between those and the rest of Nikon’s impressive selection of top-of-the-line glass. (If you’re not sure where to start, take a look at our best Nikon lenses for landscape photography page.)

Is the Nikon D850 a good choice for landscape photography? If you already own a number of full-frame Nikon lenses, absolutely. It’s also a great choice if you’re a pro who uses your camera every day, as the superior optical viewfinder and friendly ergonomics can make all the difference in the world.

The Nikon D850 also offers a higher value for the money. So, if you’re price-conscious, have already invested in the Nikon ecosystem, and/or don’t need a mirrorless camera, the Nikon D850 is definitely a worthy choice.

5. Fujifilm X100VI

Credit: Greg Cromie

• Dimensions: 128 x 75 x 55 mm (5.04 x 2.95 x 2.17 in)
• Weight: 521 g (18.38 lbs)

No landscape camera list would be complete without something light and compact for hikers and backpackers who don’t want to fuss about with interchangeable lenses.

If this is what you’re looking for, your best option is the newly released Fujifilm X100VI (go here for our in-depth review). Because this is a high-end camera, the price tag is higher than other compact models (about US$1500).

However, consider that this price is lower than any of the interchangeable lens cameras listed, and that you don’t have to invest in lenses. Once I tell you about the specs, you’ll see why it’s worth every dollar.

One of the key features of the Fujifilm X100VI is its APS-C 40.2MP sensor. Most compact cameras have smaller sensors, significantly impacting the dynamic range and their low-light performance.

Not to mention that they also have lower resolution. In fact, 40.2MP is more than the Canon DSLR camera I previously recommended – although that is a full-frame sensor.

The sensor is not just big; its pixel structure has also improved to capture more light. Thanks to this, the Fujifilm X100VI has a wider ISO range than its predecessors. Now, its native range is 125-12800, extendable to 64-51200.

The Fujifilm X100VI is also the first in the X100 series to include an in-body 5-axis stabilization system with a maximum of six stops. This adds to its portability, as you can shoot handheld in darker situations where you would otherwise need a tripod.

It’s also the first model to host a subject-detection AF. Especially useful for the outdoor photographer is its ability to detect and track animals, birds, and insects.

Another highly appreciated feature is the hybrid viewfinder, which allows you to switch from the optical viewfinder to the electronic one easily. It also has an electronic rangefinder that can be used to magnify the focus area when using the OVF.

Fujifilm improved the ergonomic design, so you’ll find the X100VI more comfortable to use than other models from the X100 series.

For landscape photography, you might want to purchase the AR-X100 adapter ring and PRF-49 protect filter to make the camera weather-resistant.

One thing that I do miss in comparison with other cameras is the zoom lens. The Fujifilm X100VI has a 23mm (35mm equivalent) Fujinon lens with an f/2 maximum aperture.

If you want to change focal length, you need to purchase conversion lenses. There’s a 19mm (28mm equivalent) wide-angle conversion lens, which would be particularly useful for landscape photography. A telephoto is also available.

If you’re looking for more budget-friendly options, the Fujifilm X100VI’s predecessor, the Fujifilm X100V, or the Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III are excellent choices. They’re both discontinued, but you can find them in some third-party stores or second-hand markets.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camera should I buy for landscape photography?

Our top pick for a camera if you want to shoot landscape photography is the Sony A7R V. With an impressive 61 MP, 15-stop wide dynamic range, and extraordinary autofocus performance, the A7R V will help you nail your landscape shots every time.

Is Canon or Nikon better for landscape photography?

If you look at Canon vs Nikon, both produce great options for landscape photographers. The best camera, therefore, comes down to your personal preferences and needs.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a great option for those already invested in or wanting to invest in the Canon ecosystem, while our top pick from Nikon would be the Nikon D850 – another star performer when it comes to landscape photography.

Both brands have excellent mirrorless options if you have the budget and prefer that system.

How many megapixels do I need for landscape photography?

Few cameras on the market today have less than 16 MP, and even those have a high enough resolution to capture quality images. That said, the higher the megapixels, the better equipped your camera is for producing impressive quality images and large-scale prints. The Sony A7R V, for example, has a whopping 61-megapixel sensor, making it a top choice for serious landscape photographers.

Remember that resolution isn’t everything, though. You should also consider the size of the sensor and the pixels, as well as the processor to determine its dynamic range and how much detail it captures – especially in low light.

Are mirrorless cameras good for landscape photography?

Yes – a lot of mirrorless cameras are just as equipped for landscape photography as DSLRs. In fact, they offer advantages such as being smaller and lighter and thus easier to take on travels, hikes and adventures.

What is the best camera for nature photography?

On top of the characteristics that make a good landscape photography camera, you also need to consider the burst rate and AF capabilities for shooting nature and wildlife. A great option for nature photography is the Nikon Z9, which provides three maximum frame rates, including 20, 30, and 120 FPS.

Is a 20mp enough for landscape photography?

Using a high-quality 20MP camera for landscape photography isn’t a bad idea. However, if you plan on creating large prints, you’ll need to invest in a camera that offers more megapixels.

Final Words

So there you have it – five incredible cameras to choose from to take with you on your next outdoor adventure.

Armed with one of the best camera models in this guide and a lens or two, there’s really no excuse for not capturing the great outdoors in all its glory.

Remember – whether you own one of these cameras or not, the important thing is that you get out there and start shooting.

Happy snapping!

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Sony A7R V

Creates stunning outdoor images thanks to a 61-MP sensor, 15-stop dynamic range, and sturdy weather-sealed body.