Single lens reflex cameras allow photographers to view the image that the camera will actually capture through a single lens which moves out of the way when the shutter is pressed. A digital single lens reflex camera, or DSLR, combines the advances of single lens film cameras with a digital imaging sensor.
What are some of the best DSLR travel cameras? Since DSLR cameras are larger, bulkier, more expensive, and more complicated than point-and-shoot cameras, size and durability will be important factors in your choice.
For amateurs, Nikon’s D3500, and Canon’s EOS Rebel SL3 (EOS 250D) are excellent choices. For more experienced photographers, Nikon’s D7500 and Canon’s EOS 6D Mark II are top of the line. Aspiring professional photographers should consider the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and the Nikon D850.
Taking photos is something that is customary during any kind of trip or vacation. The only problem usually arises when you need to actually travel with your current camera. In this article, we will be exploring the 5 best DSLR travel cameras that you can buy.
What is a DSLR camera?
Modern DSLR cameras are virtually identical in terms of basic technology to traditional single lens reflex cameras that used film.
Obvious advantages to digital imaging technology are the ability to review shots instantly, wifi and GPS capability, and durable images that won’t be damaged by x-rays, water, or heat as film photography will.
DSLR and SLR cameras both differ from smartphone, compact, and mirrorless cameras because they include detachable lenses and mirrors. The mirror sits between the lens and the camera sensor reflects images up to the viewfinder.
When the photographer presses the shutter, the mirror flips up to allow the camera to capture the image. Single lens cameras produce more accurate images than double lens cameras because the photographer views the subject from one point instead of two. The photographer effectively sees what the camera sees.
DSLR cameras are also usually more battery efficient than other cameras because they use a viewfinder instead of a digital screen. Even more importantly, they contain larger sensors than point and shoot cameras, which makes for better image quality, and include full manual controls.
There are a number of important qualities to consider when choosing a camera which you’ll use for travel photography. You should think about the size and weight of your camera especially when it comes to packing your bags, but also think about the value of the camera if it were to be lost, stolen, or otherwise damaged.
Most importantly, for many photographers, will be image quality and ease of use. Most DSLR cameras do contain auto functions but are generally designed for manual use. Manual functionality can take a lot of getting used to, so if you don’t know how to use one, you should take that into consideration too.
Take a look at the list down below, and keep reading through the rest of this section to get all of the details.
Factors to Consider When Looking for a Travel Camera:
- Image Quality
- Size
- Cost
- Ease of use
- Convenience during travel
Until the last five years, DSLR cameras were the default for serious photographers. However, from 2013 and onwards, mirrorless cameras have nearly caught up to DSLR cameras in terms of image quality and are also smaller and lighter.
However, mirrorless cameras do not have viewfinders and photographers rely on LCD screens to shoot photos, meaning that their battery life is considerably diminished compared to DSLR cameras.
DSLR cameras are still the standard cameras for serious and professional photographers for a reason. DSLRs can handle a wide range of lenses, generally have larger image sensors and better focus than other cameras (though this is changing). DSLR viewfinders also offer an advantage in terms of composition.
DSLR cameras are unquestionably the largest and bulkiest types of cameras on the market, though manufacturers continue to improve DSLR compactness year after year. DSLRs also necessitate the use of multiple lenses, so besides the body of the camera, which can’t fit into any pockets or most purses, you will need to carry extra lenses.
On the other hand, many photographers consider DSLR cameras to have the best ergonomics of all types of cameras. Mirrorless cameras mimic the design of DSLR cameras but are hampered by the need for LCD screens.
If you’ll be taking lots of pictures, be sure to consider the ergonomics of the camera you purchase and try it out if possible.
Smartphones can cost as much or more than DSLR cameras. However, since most of us use smartphones on a daily basis, a DSLR camera will be an extra cost. For serious photographers who do not make their living by their camera but nevertheless want good value, DSLR cameras are a solid choice.
Since DSLRs have been on the market for a long time, their prices have fallen along with their size for the last two decades.
A high-quality DSLR camera well-suited for serious photographers is much more readily available and moderately priced than mirrorless varieties of similar quality. Expect to spend $1000 for a camera body and $300-$500 on lenses for a mid-range camera suited to serious but non-professional photographers.
DSLR cameras are capable of shooting in automatic mode and generally have better focusing capabilities than other types of cameras.
However, if you consider yourself an avid photographer, you’ll need to spend considerable time learning the skills necessary to take shots in manual mode, as this is the best way to develop a personal style and take high-quality photos.
You may need to consider taking classes to learn to take good photographs with a DSLR camera. Unfortunately, they are not the types of devices most people can pick up off the shelf with minimal knowledge, and this can be a significant drawback.
To use a DSLR camera in the field, you will need a camera bag to carry spare lenses and the relatively bulky body of most DSLR cameras. DSLR cameras are also clearly recognizable and difficult to carry without attracting notice.
They’re also almost impossible to use to take spontaneous photographs since they require setup and adjustment to use.
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The Five Best DSLR Travel Cameras
Here are the 5 best DSLR Travel Cameras:
- Nikon D3500
- Canon EOS Rebel SL3
- Nikon D7500
- Canon EOS 6D Mark II
- Nikon D850/Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
The Nikon D3500 is the best bargain camera around. It has an excellent battery life at around 1200 shots. It’s also lightweight, has image-stabilization, Bluetooth connectivity, 5 frame per second shot capability, and includes an 18-55mm kit lens.
The camera runs about $500 and is without a doubt one of the best starter DSLR cameras available.
Similar to the Nikon D3500, the SL3 can capture shots at 5fps, Bluetooth, and boasts a comparable battery life (1100 shots). But, the SL3 has a touchscreen and 4k video capability. It’s one of the lightest cameras available.
It’s generally comparable to the Nikon D3500 but has some of the latest features, including the touchscreen display. It also includes a kit lens and runs to $650.
For “prosumer” photographers looking to step up from their starter DSLR cameras, the Nikon D7500 can tout a burst rate of 8fps, a tilting touch screen display, 51 point autofocus system, 4k video support, and great battery life (950-1000 shots).
You should purchase lenses separately and expect to pay more for the quality, about $800 without a lens.
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II is the D7500s main competitor. Like the D7500, the Mark II is weatherproof with excellent battery life (1200 shots), tilting touchscreen, Bluetooth, and video support. However, the Mark II is a full-frame camera (it contains an image sensor format the same size as standard 35mm film).
It’s about half the weight of the Nikon D7500, works much better than the D7500 in low-light situations, and built-in GPS.
However, it’s considerably more expensive than the D7500 ($1200 without lens) and shoots 6.5fps. Despite those disadvantages, this is the best-priced non-professional camera on the market.
Both of the last cameras on the list are ubiquitous choices in professional camera bags around the world. Both offer full frame sensors, ISO support up to 102,400, wifi, GPS, weatherproofing, and rapid autofocus.
The D850 offers higher fps (9fps vs. 7fps for the Mark IV) and one of the highest rated full-frame sensors on the market. However, it doesn’t come with GPS and is slightly heavier and more expensive than the Mark IV.
Ultimately, the D850 and Mark IV are flagship professional grade cameras, and the choice between them will come down to personal preference. Expect to pay near $3000 for each, minus lenses.
What are the Most Important Features in a Good DSLR Camera?
When deciding which DSLR camera is right for you, it’s important to consider the full spectrum of capabilities and specifications each camera possesses.
Some specs, like megapixels, are more important for professional photographers than others. After doing comparisons, when you’ve chosen a range of cameras that you like, don’t discount the way the device feels in your hands. After all, you’ll be carrying it around the world.
Here are the specifications that are important in any quality DSLR Camera:
- Sensor size
- Megapixels
- Image Stabilization
- Size/weight
- Battery life
The size of your camera’s sensor is directly related to its image quality and performance. Larger sensors allow for richer images and greater depth of field effects, but cost more and require larger, heavier camera bodies.
The most common sensors are APS-Cs and full-frame sensors, which match the size of original 35mm film. Full-frame sensors capture the most light, but are also more expensive and require larger camera bodies than APS-Cs.
Megapixels are often used in marketing campaigns touting high megapixel ratings. Megapixels are real, but they often mean less than marketers would like you to think.
They refer to the number of pixels a camera captures in an image and therefore the size of the image. If you don’t plan on printing your work for sale, however, megapixels are not a very significant specification.
A lot of travel photographers involves shooting “handheld” photographs (as opposed to tripod-based photography). In situations with limited light, handheld images often result in blurry images, since no one can keep their hands entirely still.
DSLRs often don’t contain image stabilization technology in their bodies, but the stabilization is available in many lenses.
DSLR cameras are certainly bulkier and heavier than most other types of cameras, due to the movement of the mirror inside the camera and the size of high-quality image sensors.
It’s effectively impossible to downsize a DSLR camera beyond a certain point, but manufacturers have taken advantage of lighter materials to make DSLRs smaller over time.
But remember, lighter weight cameras almost always come with a larger price tag.
DSLRs also have much better battery lives than comparable mirrorless cameras, which does a lot to offset the weight that DSLRs pack on.
Most quality DSLRs in the mid-range price point will have comparable battery lives, around 1000 shots. So, while battery life is very important, it probably won’t be a make or break feature.
The Best Accessories for Traveling with a Camera
You should always pick up accessories for your camera to protect your investment, make the most of your photos, and store your work safely. Take a look at the list down below to find some of the best ones.
The Best Accessories For Traveling With a Camera:
- Camera bag
- Neck strap
- LCD Protector
- Polarizing Filter
- SD cards
A camera bag is basically the most important accessory you can buy for your camera. You’ve spent a chunk of change on your new camera, and it’s paramount to invest in waterproof, heat-resistant, shock-resistant gear to protect it.
Also remember that you’ll be carrying a camera bag in addition to whatever else you’ll bring on your travels. So, it should be comfortable and, if possible, contain spare room for lenses, filters, batteries, and even snacks.
Cameras are heavy and the straps that come with most kits are uncomfortable and will dig into your neck and shoulders. Invest in a padded strap that won’t rub your skin and will put minimal stress on your neck. Yes, you should always wear a strap, which will prevent you from dropping your new camera or having it be stolen out of your hands.
Protecting your LCD screen is from scratches, dust, and debris is critical out in the field. Though most cameras come with a nominal protectant, consider getting a more heavy-duty piece of gear that will get the job done and ensure peace of mind.
Filters are essential elements of many camera bags and are especially useful for photographers focusing on landscapes and architecture. They reduce reflections and bring out shadows and details. Many dramatic images of clouds, weather, and distant vistas use polarizing filters to make scenes look more dramatic or vivid.
Carrying extra memory capabilities and storage will save you a lot of heartbreak, especially when you’re taking your camera into places with limited access to electricity or wifi. Use SD cards to store your pictures without worrying about uploading them to your phone, travel laptop, or computer.
Which Camera Should I Buy for Traveling?
Every individual has their own priorities and style when it comes to photography. You should consider some of the important elements outlined above, like size, battery life, image quality, and price to help you make a decision.
How to decide which camera you should buy for traveling:
- Make sure you see it in person and try it out first
- Consider what types of photos you would like to take
- Think about the travel gear that is needed for the camera
It’s never a good idea to buy a camera sight unseen from the internet. If you can, always take the time to go to a brick-and-mortar store to pick up and try the camera for yourself. Does it feel comfortable in your hands?
Try taking some sample pictures and get a feel for how the manual controls work and gauge how comfortable you’d be taking pictures with the camera. Try to judge its weight and carry it around with a strap to get a sense of how it will feel after a few hours.
Think about the types of images you’d like to capture. This will give you a lot of insight into the type of camera you’ll need.
Do you want to take close-ups or pictures of landscapes? Portraits of images of movement? If you want to take pictures of landscapes, architecture, or moving objects, you should consider each camera’s frames per second capabilities and the size of its image sensor.
Finally, think about the way you’d like to travel and the amount of gear you hope to take or leave at home.
If you’re hoping to take spontaneous pictures with a minimum of gear weighing you down, prioritize small, light cameras that don’t require specialized lenses or set up. You might even consider getting a mirrorless or compact camera if you’re really looking for ideas on how to travel lite.
If you don’t mind the heft of a larger camera because you’re prioritizing photography during your travels, feel free to look at those bigger, higher-end devices.
Do remember that traveling is always risky though, no matter how well-prepared you might be. Be prepared to lose or damage your camera and think about the amount of money you could lose in that scenario.
Ultimately, choosing a camera is a very personal act. The highest-end item might not be right for you for a multitude of reasons, so don’t just go for the biggest, most complicated and expensive camera without considering exactly what you’re hoping to get.
Always try the camera out for yourself if you can. And remember to choose something that fits your skills and capabilities, but that will also allow you to grow.
(Check out these online photography courses if you want to take your photography skills to the next level!)