Unleash Your Inner Wildlife Photographer with These Top Cameras
Hey there, fellow nature enthusiasts! Are you looking to capture the stunning beauty of wildlife in all its glory? Look no further! In this article, we will explore the seven best DSLR wildlife cameras of 2017 that will elevate your photography skills to new heights. Whether you are an aspiring wildlife photographer or a seasoned pro, these cameras will give you the power and precision you need to capture those breathtaking moments in the wild. So, let’s dive right in and discover the perfect companion for your wildlife adventures!
Introduction
When it comes to wildlife photography, having the right equipment can make all the difference. It’s essential to invest in a DSLR camera that can handle the challenges posed by capturing fast-moving subjects in unpredictable environments. In this introduction, we will discuss the key factors to consider when choosing the best DSLR wildlife camera for your needs.
1. Sensor Size and Resolution
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The sensor size and resolution of a camera play a vital role in determining the image quality. A larger sensor allows for better light-gathering capabilities, resulting in sharper and more detailed images. Moreover, a higher resolution ensures that you can crop and enlarge your photos without losing any significant details. Look for cameras with full-frame or APS-C sensors and a minimum resolution of 20 megapixels for stunning wildlife shots.
2. Autofocus System
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Wildlife photography often involves capturing animals in motion, which means your camera’s autofocus system needs to be fast, accurate, and reliable. Look for cameras that offer advanced autofocus systems with a high number of focus points and excellent tracking capabilities. This will ensure that your subjects remain in sharp focus, no matter how quickly they move.
3. Burst Shooting Speed
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When shooting wildlife, you need a camera that can keep up with the action. Look for cameras that offer high burst shooting speeds, allowing you to capture multiple frames per second. This will increase your chances of capturing that perfect moment, whether it’s a lion in mid-roar or a bird taking flight.
4. ISO Performance
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Wildlife photography often requires shooting in low-light conditions, such as early mornings or late evenings. A camera with excellent ISO performance will allow you to capture well-exposed images without excessive noise. Look for cameras that have a wide ISO range and can produce clean and noise-free images at higher ISO settings.
5. Weather Sealing
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When photographing wildlife, you will inevitably encounter various weather conditions. Having a camera that is weather-sealed will protect it from dust, moisture, and other elements, enabling you to shoot in any environment. Look for cameras with robust build quality and weather sealing, allowing you to focus on capturing incredible wildlife moments without worrying about your equipment.
6. Video Capabilities
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Wildlife photography isn’t just about still images; it’s also about capturing those awe-inspiring moments in motion. Look for cameras that offer high-quality video capabilities, such as 4K resolution and advanced video autofocus. This will allow you to create stunning wildlife videos that truly bring your experiences to life.
7. Lens Availability
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No camera is complete without a good lens. When choosing a DSLR wildlife camera, consider the availability of lenses that suit your specific needs. Wildlife photography often requires long telephoto lenses to capture distant subjects. Make sure there is a wide range of compatible lenses available for your chosen camera system.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Best DSLR Wildlife Cameras of 2017
Now that we have explored the key factors to consider when choosing a DSLR wildlife camera, let’s dive into the advantages and disadvantages of the top seven cameras of 2017.
Nikon D850
Advantages:
– Excellent image quality, thanks to its full-frame 45.7-megapixel sensor.
– Advanced autofocus system with 153 focus points and excellent subject tracking.
– Impressive ISO performance, allowing for clean shots even in low-light conditions.
– Robust weather sealing, making it suitable for any environment.
– 4K video capabilities for stunning wildlife footage.
Disadvantages:
– Higher price point compared to other models on the list.
– Large file sizes that require ample storage space.
Canon EOS-1D X Mark II
Advantages:
– Superb autofocus system with 61 focus points and excellent subject tracking.
– High-speed continuous shooting at up to 14 frames per second.
– Excellent ISO performance, allowing for low-light shooting without compromising image quality.
– Weather-sealed construction for durability in harsh conditions.
– Reliable and trusted by professional wildlife photographers.
Disadvantages:
– Bulky and heavy, making it less suitable for handheld shooting.
– Limited video capabilities compared to some other models.
Sony Alpha a9
Advantages:
– Impressive 20 frames per second continuous shooting speed for capturing fast action.
– High-resolution 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor for exceptional image quality.
– Fast and accurate autofocus system with 693 phase-detection focus points.
– Excellent electronic viewfinder for precise composition and exposure.
– 4K video capabilities for capturing stunning wildlife footage.
Disadvantages:
– Expensive compared to other models on the list.
– Limited battery life due to the demands of continuous shooting.
Pentax K-1 Mark II
Advantages:
– Full-frame 36.4-megapixel sensor for excellent image quality.
– In-body image stabilization for sharper handheld shots.
– Weather-sealed construction for shooting in challenging environments.
– Excellent ISO performance, allowing for low-light shooting without excessive noise.
– Unique AstroTracer feature for capturing stunning night sky images.
Disadvantages:
– Limited lens selection compared to other camera systems.
– Slower autofocus system compared to some other models.
Fujifilm X-T2
Advantages:
– 24.3-megapixel APS-C sensor for excellent image quality.
– Fast and accurate autofocus system with 325 focus points.
– Weather-sealed construction for shooting in challenging conditions.
– Excellent film simulation modes for unique and stunning image results.
– Compact and lightweight, making it ideal for handheld shooting.
Disadvantages:
– Smaller sensor size compared to full-frame cameras.
– Limited battery life compared to some other models.
Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
Advantages:
– 20.4-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor for good image quality.
– In-body image stabilization for sharper handheld shots.
– Impressive burst shooting speed of up to 60 frames per second.
– Weather-sealed construction for shooting in challenging environments.
– Compact and lightweight, making it ideal for travel and handheld shooting.
Disadvantages:
– Smaller sensor size compared to full-frame cameras.
– Limited lens selection compared to some other camera systems.
Panasonic Lumix GH5
Advantages:
– 20.3-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor for good image quality.
– High-speed burst shooting at up to 12 frames per second.
– Excellent video capabilities, including 4K and 6K photo modes.
– In-body image stabilization for sharper handheld shots.
– Compact and lightweight, making it ideal for travel and handheld shooting.
Disadvantages:
– Smaller sensor size compared to full-frame cameras.
– Limited low-light performance compared to some other models.
Complete Information Table – The Best DSLR Wildlife Cameras of 2017
| Camera Model | Sensor Size | Resolution | Autofocus System | Burst Shooting Speed | ISO Range | Weather Sealing | Video Capabilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nikon D850 | Full-Frame | 45.7 MP | 153-point AF | 7 fps (9 fps with battery grip) | 64-25,600 (expandable to 102,400) | Yes | 4K UHD |
| Canon EOS-1D X Mark II | Full-Frame | 20.2 MP | 61-point AF | 14 fps (16 fps in Live View) | 100-51,200 (expandable to 409,600) | Yes | Full HD 1080p |
| Sony Alpha a9 | Full-Frame | 24.2 MP | 693-point AF | 20 fps | 100-51,200 (expandable to 204,800) | Yes | 4K UHD |
| Pentax K-1 Mark II | Full-Frame | 36.4 MP | 33-point AF | 4.4 fps | 100-204,800 | Yes | Full HD 1080p |
| Fujifilm X-T2 | APS-C | 24.3 MP | 325-point AF | 8 fps (11 fps with battery grip) | 200-12,800 (expandable to 100-51,200) | Yes | 4K UHD |
| Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II | Micro Four Thirds | 20.4 MP | 121-point AF | 15 fps (60 fps in Pro Capture mode) | 200-25,600 | Yes | 4K UHD |
| Panasonic Lumix GH5 | Micro Four Thirds | 20.3 MP | 225-point AF | 12 fps (9 fps with continuous AF) | 200-25,600 (expandable to 100-25,600) | Yes | 4K UHD |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use a DSLR wildlife camera for other types of photography?
Yes, DSLR wildlife cameras are versatile and can be used for various types of photography, including landscapes, portraits, and sports photography.
2. Do I need an expensive camera to capture great wildlife photos?
While a high-quality camera can enhance your photography experience, it’s not solely dependent on the price tag. With proper skills and technique, you can capture remarkable wildlife photos using cameras at different price points.
3. Can I use my existing lenses with a DSLR wildlife camera?
It depends on the camera system you choose. Different camera brands have their lens mounts, and not all lenses are compatible across systems. Make sure to check lens compatibility before making a purchase.
4. What accessories are essential for wildlife photography?
Some essential accessories for wildlife photography include a sturdy tripod, telephoto lens, lens hood, memory cards, and extra batteries.
5. How can I improve my wildlife photography skills?
Improving wildlife photography skills requires practice, patience, and understanding of your camera’s features. Experiment with different settings, study animal behavior, and learn from experienced photographers through workshops or online resources.
6. Are mirrorless cameras suitable for wildlife photography?
Yes, mirrorless cameras have advanced significantly and can provide excellent results in wildlife photography. They offer benefits such as compact size, silent shooting, and accurate autofocus systems.
7. What is the ideal lens focal length for wildlife photography?
The ideal lens focal length for wildlife photography depends on the type of subjects you want to capture. Generally, telephoto lenses with focal lengths of 300mm to 600mm are popular choices for wildlife photography.
8. How do I choose the right camera settings for wildlife photography?
Choosing the right camera settings for wildlife photography involves balancing shutter speed, aperture, and ISO to freeze action, achieve desired depth of field, and maintain image quality. It’s important to understand the exposure triangle and how it impacts your images.
9. Can I shoot wildlife photos in manual mode?
Yes, shooting in manual mode allows you to have complete control over your camera settings. However, it requires a good understanding of exposure and may require quick adjustments in dynamic wildlife situations.
10. What is the importance of composition in wildlife photography?
Composition plays a crucial role in wildlife photography as it helps to create visually appealing images. By using techniques such as the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing, you can tell a story and draw the viewer’s attention to the subject.
11. How do I approach wildlife without disturbing them?
Approaching wildlife without disturbing them requires patience, respect for their environment, and staying at a safe distance. It’s important to study their behavior, move slowly, and avoid sudden movements or loud noises.
12. What post-processing software is recommended for wildlife photography?
Popular post-processing software for wildlife photography includes Adobe Lightroom, Capture One, and DxO PhotoLab. These software programs provide powerful editing tools to enhance your images and bring out the best in your wildlife shots.
13. What ethical considerations should I keep in mind when photographing wildlife?
When photographing wildlife, it’s crucial to prioritize the well-being and conservation of the animals. Respect their natural behaviors, avoid disturbing nests or habitats, and ensure that your presence does not harm or stress the wildlife in any way.
Conclusion
There you have it, the seven best DSLR wildlife cameras of 2017, each with its own unique strengths and features. Whether you are a professional wildlife photographer or a passionate hobbyist, these cameras will enable you to capture the awe-inspiring beauty of nature like never before. Remember to consider your specific photography needs, budget, and desired features when choosing the perfect camera for your wildlife adventures.
