Smartphones with ‘portrait mode’ have made it easier than ever to capture photos with beautiful background blur. However, their artificial blur cannot compare to the natural separation a DSLR or mirrorless camera and a quality lens can provide. If you’re aiming to start taking high-quality portraits, the good news is that there are excellent cameras available across different price ranges. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s a camera to suit your needs.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the six best cameras for portrait photography in 2024. Remember, no camera alone can make you a skilled photographer. Lighting, composition, and lens selection will often have more impact than the camera body itself. That said, the cameras listed here offer strong performance and reliability to help you achieve great results in your portrait work.
1. Best Camera for a Family: Sony α7 IV
The Sony α7 IV sits at the top of the list for portrait photography thanks to its full-frame sensor, superb autofocus system, and excellent image quality. It features a 33MP sensor, which is more than enough to capture fine details in portraits, whether you’re shooting for print or social media.
One of its standout features is its autofocus (AF) system, which includes eye autofocus for precision. This allows the camera to maintain focus on your subject’s eyes, freeing you up to engage more naturally with them. For portrait photographers, this feature ensures you don’t have to worry about missed focus during a session.
The camera also includes in-body image stabilization (IBIS), helping reduce blur in low-light conditions and slower shutter speeds. If you’re pairing this camera with a prime lens like the Sony FE 85mm f/1.8, you’ll get stunning background blur (bokeh) that portrait photographers love.
While the Sony α7 IV excels in many areas, its higher price point might be overkill for some, particularly if video is not a priority. However, its versatility and reliability make it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Key Features:
- Resolution: 33 MP
- Autofocus: Eye AF for precise focusing
- Lens Compatibility: Wide range of E-mount lenses
- Image Stabilization: IBIS for clear handheld shots
2. Best APS-C Camera: Fujifilm X-H2
If a full-frame camera is beyond your budget, the Fujifilm X-H2 is one of the best APS-C options for portrait photography. With a high-resolution 40.2 MP sensor, it delivers excellent detail and gives you flexibility when cropping or reframing your shots.
The X-H2 also features Fujifilm’s signature film simulations, allowing you to apply classic film looks directly in the camera, a feature that many portrait photographers love. Combined with the XF 56mm f/1.2 R lens, you can still achieve beautiful background separation, despite the smaller APS-C sensor.
This camera also boasts a sturdy, weather-sealed body, making it a good option if you frequently shoot outdoors. For photographers who prioritize portability, the Fujifilm X-T5 offers the same sensor but in a more compact, strictly photography-focused body.
Key Features:
- Resolution: 40.2 MP
- Lens Compatibility: XF mount lenses
- Film Simulations: Built-in classic film presets
- Build Quality: Weather-sealed body
3. Best Mid-Range Option: Nikon Z 5
If you’re after a full-frame camera that won’t break the bank, the Nikon Z 5 is a fantastic mid-range option. It has a 24.3 MP sensor, which captures exceptional detail and color depth. Nikon cameras are well known for their excellent ergonomics, and the Z 5 is no exception—it feels solid in hand and is very comfortable to use during extended shoots.
The Nikon Z 5 also performs well in low light, making it a good choice for portrait photographers who often work in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. Though its autofocus system is slightly behind Sony’s in terms of sophistication, it’s still highly capable for portrait work.
When paired with Nikon’s Z 85mm f/1.8 S lens, the Z 5 delivers stunning portrait shots with creamy bokeh and razor-sharp subject focus. Though the selection of lenses for Nikon’s Z-mount system is still growing, it offers plenty of high-quality glass for portrait photography.
Key Features:
- Resolution: 24.3 MP
- Ergonomics: Comfortable grip and handling
- Low-Light Performance: Strong results in dim conditions
- Lens Compatibility: Nikon Z mount
4. Best Camera for a Family: Canon EOS R10
For those just starting, the Canon EOS R10 offers an excellent balance between price and performance. This APS-C mirrorless camera is lightweight and easy to use, with a highly intuitive menu system. Its 24.2 MP sensor delivers detailed portrait photos, and Canon’s reliable autofocus system, which includes eye detection, ensures sharp focus on your subject’s eyes.
One downside is the limited selection of native RF-mount lenses. However, Canon offers an adapter that allows you to use older EF lenses, greatly expanding your options. The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8, for instance, is an affordable yet excellent lens for portraits that pairs well with the R10.
Overall, the EOS R10 is an ideal entry-level camera for someone looking to dip their toes into portrait photography without committing to a more expensive system.
Key Features:
- Resolution: 24.2 MP
- Lens Compatibility: RF mount (with EF adapter option)
- Autofocus: Eye detection for portraits
- Portability: Lightweight and compact
5. Best Camera for a Family: Sony α6400
If you’re on a tighter budget but still want a capable camera for portrait photography, the Sony α6400 is worth considering. This APS-C camera offers a 24.2 MP sensor and packs Sony’s renowned autofocus system, complete with eye AF. It’s also compatible with the same range of E-mount lenses as the higher-end α7 IV, giving you flexibility to upgrade your gear over time.
Though the α6400 lacks in-body image stabilization, its small size makes it an appealing option for photographers who need a portable, everyday camera. Pair it with the Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN lens for excellent portraits on a budget.
Key Features:
- Resolution: 24.2 MP
- Lens Compatibility: E-mount lenses
- Autofocus: Eye AF for precise focusing
- Portability: Small, lightweight body
6. Best Camera for a Family: Canon EOS Rebel T7
If you’re looking for a true budget camera, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is one of the most affordable DSLRs available. While its 24.1 MP sensor isn’t groundbreaking by today’s standards, it’s still capable of delivering great results for portraits, especially when paired with a good lens.
The Rebel T7 is a simple, no-frills DSLR that’s perfect for beginners on a very tight budget. While you won’t get fancy features like a tilting screen or weather-sealing, it provides a solid introduction to portrait photography.
One of its strongest selling points is its compatibility with Canon’s wide range of EF and EF-S lenses. The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 is a great portrait lens for this camera that won’t add much to your overall cost.
Key Features:
- Resolution: 24.1 MP
- Lens Compatibility: EF/EF-S mount lenses
- Price: One of the most affordable DSLRs on the market
Best Camera for a Family | Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best camera for portraits, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Each of the cameras listed here offers different strengths, so your choice should depend on your budget, needs, and how you plan to use the camera. Whether you’re looking for a high-end model like the Sony α7 IV or a budget-friendly DSLR like the Canon EOS Rebel T7, these cameras will help you take your portrait photography to the next level in 2024.
