New to Nightscapes? 5 Great Cameras to Get You Started
Looking at the depth, detail, and sheer dimension of nightscapes, it’s easy to assume that photographers would need huge camera rigs for these shots. However, given the advancements in camera and sensor technology, stunning night photography can be achieved with cameras that are not much different from ones you’d use for landscape or portrait photography. Although over time, night photographers may find themselves opting for cameras and lenses with specific nightscape benefits, beginners need not get that technical.
An image taken with the Nikon Z6 and Nikon Z 14-24 f/2.8 S Lens
If you’re new to nightscapes and would like to find a great camera for the job, here are some models that you can consider:
Nikon Z6
First up one of the most popular cameras among nightscapers, and for good reason! The camera is also my personal goto for astrophotography and nightscapes. The Nikon Z6 was Nikon’s first full frame mirrorless camera. It features the new Z mount and new lenses to pair along with it. Its replacement, the Nikon Z6II offers two card slots and faster AF, however these characteristics are not essential to nightscape photography. This makes the Z6 I more budget friendly while still offering a gateway to the Z mount glass such as the Nikon Z 14-24. Other lenses such as the Z mount S line primes have also been well suited for astrophotography—which is not something all lenses are capable of. It has a 24MP back-side illuminated full frame sensor which yields 6 microns of pixel pitch, making it the perfect balance between resolution and low light performance.
Additionally, the sensor is dual gain ISO invariant which allows for more post processing freedom and higher dynamic range. The body is weather sealed, and it takes the same EN-EL15 battery system as all of Nikon’s full frame DSLRs for maximizing compatibility. You can also opt for the FTZ adapter to pair any existing f-mount glass to the Z mount. The camera only weighs 675 grams making it a great option to take on hikes as well.
The Nikon Z6 I in action out in the field. This camera is super small and lightweight while also offering a lot of benefits to the nightscape photographer.
Nikon D750
A favorite among experienced photographers, the Nikon D750 is a solid option among DSLR cameras thanks to its full-frame sensor, Nikon F mount, and budget friendly pricing. Although it’s not able to take 4K videos or be paired with notable nightscape lenses like the Nikon Z 14-24, it has a similar 24MP sensor to the Z6. It has 6 microns of pixel pitch like the Z6, and is ISO invariant as well making for more post processing ease. The D750 is made out of durable construction and is weather sealed as well. Nikon claims that the kevlar shutter can last up to 150,000 releases which means you can use it for timelapses as well without having to worry about wearing down the shutter. The D750 is the perfect upgrade from a crop sensor camera, or a solid choice for a first full frame camera.
Canon EOS R6
The Canon R6 is Canon’s mid-tier mirrorless camera that can easily handle nightscape photography. Weighing in at 680 grams with the battery, this camera is nice and light making it a great option to take on long hikes. The 20MP sensor offers 6.58 microns of pixel pitch making it a fantastic option for low light shooting. Additionally, the viewfinder is one of the most sensitive amongst its competition making it easy to frame and focus even in some of the darkest skies. As an added bonus for beginners, the R6 has an easy to use menu system and can be paired with Canon’s new R mount glass. The free-angle tilting touchscreen LCD monitor also helps with ergonomics which is super helpful when shooting on a tripod. The camera also supports up to 29 minutes of 4K recordings in full-frame if you wish to shoot video as well.
Fujifilm XT-3
The Fujifilm X-T3 is a versatile and lightweight option that is popular amongst landscapers and nightscapers alike. The X-T is part of the X-series of digital cameras that Fujifilm first unveiled a decade ago and continues to expand. As a nightscape camera, its X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor is designed differently than the typical sensors found in the Nikon and Canon cameras referenced above. The sensor has a unique bayer pattern giving it an advantage in pixel spacing and therefore low light capabilities.
The X-T3 is an APSC body with 26MP therefore giving it 3.77 microns of pixel pitch. While this is not as much as the full frame cameras referenced above, it is much smaller and compact than those options. It also features an X-Processor 4 image processing engine which improves response times, achieves fast AF making it great for landscapes as well. Despite its compact form, the X-T3 is also dust, moisture, and freeze resistant so you can use it in any environment. The high-precision tilting LCD monitor's tempered glass is also a bonus for heavy-handed photographers and of course easy ergonomics for tripod shooting. The camera features the Fuji X-mount which is compatible with a slew of first and 3rd party lenses.
Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 II
A pricier option for those who want to prioritize video capabilities. Using a 20MP Micro 4/3 sensor, this gives the GH5 II 3.34 microns of pixel pitch. Like the XT-3 above, what it lacks in pixel scale it makes up for in portability. This makes it another great option for hikers. It has a higher processing power than its predecessors. Panasonic also upgraded the GH5 II with a new longer-lasting DMW-BLK22 battery and a sharper 3-inch LCD. The slew of buttons and dials on the body has been specially designed so specific tasks like swapping between focus modes can be easily achieved which is great for those using the camera for both landscapes and nightscapes. The Micro 4/3 sensor design and mount have been well developed and offer a ton of great lens options for any budget. The GH5 II is a great second body to pair with someone who is already deeply invested in Micro 4/3 and wants something that can do it all.
Although diving into nightscape photography does entail more than just a camera, choosing the right camera model can influence your initial experiences and images. Though the first camera you use now may not be the one you end up perfecting your craft with, having a good camera can help you learn faster and shape your unique approach better. For more on nightscape photography, tutorials, and gear reviews, please visit my blog here.
A nightscape taken with the Nikon Z6 I and Z 50mm f/1.8 S lens.