Just like every photography niche, the best camera for sports photography is the camera you have with you — but sometimes it’s worth planning ahead to make sure you’re equipped with the best of the best. This is particularly important in the fast-paced world of sports photography. From soccer to basketball to tennis, athletes move in and out of the frame quickly, and that calls for a particular set of features.
What Cameras do Sports Photographers use?
For one, a good sports photography camera will be quick with autofocusing. It will detect and hone in on a subject in an instant, ensuring each snap is clear, crisp, and focused. Additionally, cameras with high shutter speeds are essential — think faster than 1/1000 — as are high frame rates, such as 10 frames per second. These essentials work in tandem to capture the action as it happens. Versatility in low-light conditions, as well as a high resolution (ideal for cropping in), are additional perks for any sports-photography camera. So, with all of that:
What’s the Best Camera for Sports Photography?
Whether you’re a seasoned sports photographer with years of on-field work under your belt, or you’re a budding creator hoping to break into the field, here are ten of the best cameras for sports photography with the best features to help you get the job done.
Each digital camera on this list makes it easy to freeze motion, lock onto your focus targets effectively and correctly, and make camera-setting adjustments quickly when conditions change.
As you explore potential cameras for sports photography, pay attention to the available compatible lenses. Ideally, the camera you choose will have a native superzoom telephoto lens available for successful shooting from the sidelines.
Be sure to also check key specs like maximum frames per second and the quantity and location of autofocusing points, as well as helpful features like image stabilization so you can work more effectively in low light in gymnasiums or during night-time games.
Sony Alpha a9 II Mirrorless Digital Camera Body
The Sony Alpha A9II has long been the standard when it comes to sports photography cameras. This camera, with its 24.2-megapixel sensor, is impressively speedy with up to 20 frames-per-second blackout-free shooting. It also has a high-speed 1/32000-second anti-distortion shutter to ensure each shot is crystal clear. Additionally, this high-end camera boasts an ISO of up to 51,200, not to mention a stellar autofocus with AF/AE calculations up to 60 times per second. The Sony A9 II doesn’t mess around when it comes to sports photography; that’s why photographers swear by this powerhouse of a camera.
Key Features:
- Resolution: 24.2 MP
- Shutter speed: up to 1/32000
- Continuous shooting: up to 20 fps
- Camera Format: Full-frame
- Processor: BIONZ X
- 693-Point phase detection AF system
- ISO Range: 100-204,800
- 5-Axis in-body stabilization system
- Anti-flicker and silent shooting modes
Why is this a great sports camera?
The Sony Alpha a9 II offers plenty of features designed with sports photographers in mind. The subject tracking is impressive thanks to an autofocusing system that recalculates focus up to 60 times each second. As athletes move through and across the frame, the a9 II keeps up effortlessly so you can enjoy frame after frame of tack-sharp action.
Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless Digital Camera
The Sony Alpha 1 is another workhorse of a camera with a whopping 50.1-megapixel full-frame stacked Exmor RS image sensor that boasts up to 30 frames per second of continuous shooting. This high-end camera offers up to 120 AF/AE calculations per second — ultimately ensuring your speedy frames aren’t just fast, they’re focused. And, when sports photographers need to alternate between photo and video, they can rest assured the Sony Alpha 1 is ready for both jobs, with an up to 8k resolution at 30p. Check out our hands-on review of the A1 with photographer Mahesh Thapa.
Key Features:
- Resolution: 50.1 MP
- Shutter speed: up to 1/32000
- Continuous shooting: up to 30 fps
- Camera Format: Full-frame
- Processor: BIONZ XR
- 759-Point phase detection AF system
- ISO Range: 100-102,400
- 5-Axis digital in-body stabilization system
- Anti-flicker and silent shooting modes
Why is this a great sports camera?
Jump into sports photography at an extreme level with pro-quality features from the Alpha 1. Everything about this camera body is designed for efficiency and speed, from the next-generation image processor to the anti-distortion shutter.
No matter what sport you photograph, you can isolate athletes in action thanks to panning shot capabilities, hyper-fast focusing, and real-time eye autofocusing.
Nikon Z 9 Mirrorless Digital Camera Body
With a 45.7-megapixel sensor and Nikon’s Expeed 7 processor, the Nikon Z9 Mirrorless Camera is undoubtedly one of the best cameras for sports photography. Just check out how sports photographer Rod Mar used it to photograph tennis players in a hands-on review of the Z9. This workhorse of a camera features up to 20 frames-per-second burst shooting, with an electronic shutter that delivers readout speeds of 1/270. Add the Z9’s astonishing shutter speeds of 1/32000 of a second — and the camera’s ability to capture images at roughly 11MP when shooting at 120 frames per second — and it’s obvious why even the most high-end sports photographers rely on the Z9 from Nikon.
Key Features:
- Resolution: 45.7 MP
- Shutter speed: up to 1/32000
- Continuous shooting: up to 120 fps
- Camera Format: Full frame
- Processor: Expeed 7
- 493-Point phase detection AF system
- ISO Range: 32-204,800
- 5-Axis in-body optical stabilization system
- 1,000 image buffer capacity
Why is this a great sports camera?
Good sports photography isn’t just about fast shutter speeds and frames per second. Sports photographers need a camera that can process large image files quickly without bogging down or experiencing errors.
The Z 9 offers incredibly fast write speeds to both card slots and can buffer up to one thousand images in a row at 20 fps in full resolution.
Nikon D6 FX-Format Digital SLR Camera Body
Another great Nikon camera for sports photographers is the Nikon D6. This speedy camera, with its 20.8-megapixel sensor and EXPEED 6 image processor, delivers gorgeous, high-sensitivity images that virtually pop off the screen. The camera offers a continuous shooting rate of 14 frames per second with up to 200 continuous shots. And, equally great for sports photographers, it comes with a Multi-CAM 37K autofocus system — Nikon’s most powerful AF system yet. The D6 is as good for photos as it is for video, with 4K footage at 30, 25, and 24 frames per second.
Key Features:
- Resolution: 20.8 MP
- Shutter speed: up to 1/8000
- Continuous shooting: up to 14 fps
- Camera Format: Full-frame
- Processor: EXPEED 6
- 493-Point phase detection AF system
- ISO Range: 50-3,280,000
- Multi-CAM 37K autofocus system
- Silent shooting mode in Live View
Why is this a great sports camera?
If you prefer the feel and functionality of a DSLR over mirrorless cameras, then the D6 is a well-rounded camera to consider. The expanded ISO range is incredible with a maximum expanded ISO of 3,280,000. When other photographers are struggling in darkened arenas, you’ll capture every movement easily.
Canon EOS R5 Mirrorless Digital Camera Body
Canon’s EOS R5 Mirrorless Digital Camera has all the makings of a top camera for sports photography. Its massive 45-megapixel sensor delivers gorgeous snaps, and the shooting speeds of up to 12 frames per second (mechanical) and 20 frames per second (electronic) ensure photographers will never miss a pivotal moment. Additionally, the brand packed autofocus features into the EOS R5, with 1,053 automatic AF zones, plus eye detection AF.
Key Features:
- Resolution: 45 MP
- Shutter speed: up to 1/8000
- Continuous shooting: up to 20 fps
- Camera Format: Full-frame
- Processor: DIGIC X
- 1,053-Point phase detection AF system
- ISO Range: 100-102,400
- Subject tracking with Deep Learning Technology
- 5-axis in-camera image stabilization
Why is this a great sports camera?
Whether you use Canon’s classic line of EF lenses or their new RF lens lineup, you’ll enjoy an enormous selection of lenses to capture any sport. If you use the advanced RF lenses, you can take advantage of focusing points across 100% of the camera frame. Wherever the players move, you’ll have them in your sights.
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR Body
The EOS 5D Mark IV continues Canon’s action-camera legacy. This all-purpose camera boasts a 30.4-megapixel full-frame sensor, a reliable 61-point AF system with Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF, and continuous shooting at up to seven frames per second. Additionally, the camera’s intuitive touch-panel LCD screen makes it easy to adjust settings and navigate between frames. The versatile ISO range of 100 to 32,000 also guarantees this camera will do its job, both on the field and in the gym.
Key Features:
- Resolution: 30.4 MP
- Shutter speed: up to 1/8000
- Continuous shooting: up to 7 fps
- Camera Format: Full-frame
- Processor: DIGIC 6+
- 61-Point AF system
- ISO Range: 100-32,000
- Impressive low-light performing AF system
- Anti-flicker shooting
Why is this a great sports camera?
Even after a few years on the market, the Canon 5D Mark IV remains a top-performer among sports photographers. Known for its reliability and impressive image quality, you’ll appreciate the spectacular resolution of every image you take, even while tracking moving subjects or shooting in burst mode.
Olympus OM-D E-M1X Mirrorless Digital Camera Body
The quick, precise, and reliable Olympic OM-D E-M1X Mirrorless Digital Camera offers everything a sports photographer pines for in a camera. First, the 20.4-megapixel sensor guarantees images are high quality and ready for print. Meanwhile, the continuous shooting of up to 60 frames per second promises photographers will capture every second of the game. The ISO range of 25,600 ensures creators can capture the action, no matter the setting. And, the camera’s revolutionary image stabilization promises crisp, blur-free snaps.
Key Features:
- Resolution: 20.4 MP
- Shutter speed: up to 1/32000
- Continuous shooting: 60 fps
- Camera Format: Micro four thirds
- Processor: Dual TruePicTM VIII
- 121 cross-type phase-detection points
- ISO Range: 100-25,600
- Compact, lightweight body
- In-body 5-axis image stabilization
Why is this a great sports camera?
A bulky mirrorless camera or DSLR is fine for shooting sports from the sidelines. But if you’re trying to keep up with extreme sporting events, marathon runners, or skaters at the skatepark, you need a more compact camera that still achieves your goals. The OM-D E-M1X ticks all the boxes while being small enough to stay mobile.
OM SYSTEM OM-1 Mark II Mirrorless Camera Body
Another one of Olympus’ best cameras for sports photographers is the OM SYSTEM OM-1 Mark II. This high-end yet lightweight camera features a high-resolution 20-megapixel Stacked BSI Live Mos Sensor with a Truepic X Processor and 8.5 stops of in-body image stabilization that ensures each snap is crisp and clear. The dustproof, freezeproof, and slashproof construction is ideal for outdoor and action sports, such as volleyball or hockey.
Key Features:
- Resolution: 20 MP
- Shutter speed: 1/8000 to 60 Seconds (mechanical) – 1/32000 to 60 Seconds (electronic)
- Continuous shooting: 10 fps Shooting, 120 fps with E. Shutter
- Camera Format: Micro four thirds
- Processor: TruePicTM IX
- 5.76m-Dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder
- ISO Range: 200 to 25,600 in Manual, Auto Mode (Extended: 80 to 102,400)
- Compact, lightweight body
- In-body 5-axis image stabilization
Why is this a great sports camera?
Whether you’re braving inclement winter weather in a football stadium or capturing a mud race, the OM-1 Mark II has got you covered in any conditions. The weather-sealed, dust-proof case and the robust shutter are designed for a long life, and they provide added confidence for professional sports photographers and enthusiasts alike.
Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 Mirrorless Camera Body
The Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 Mirrorless Camera is another top-notch camera for sports photography. Capture winter sports, adventure feats, and even team sports thanks to the camera’s versatile array of features. First, the camera’s build was designed for all conditions. It’s splash and dust-proof — not to mention lightweight. It also captures quick snaps with a shutter of up to 1/16000. And, the 20.3-megapixel sensor delivers stunning, high-detail photos that are perfect for print or online galleries.
Key Features:
- Resolution: 20.3 MP
- Shutter speed: up to 1/16000
- Continuous shooting: up to 12 fps
- Camera Format: Micro four thirds
- Processor: Venus Engine 10
- 225 autofocus points
- ISO Range: 100-25,600
- Freezeproof to -10 degrees
- In-body 5-axis image stabilization
Why is this a great sports camera?
The Lumix GH5 takes advantage of unique DFD (Depth From Defocus) technology from Panasonic to improve motion detection and accurate focusing of moving subjects and athletes. The joystick control also makes it easier to switch AF points and other settings quickly so you can adapt to the action of any game.
Panasonic Lumix G9 II Mirrorless Digital Camera Body
Few cameras provide as much power, stamina, and precision as the Panasonic Lumix G9 II, another unbeatable sports photography camera. This camera features a host of high-end video features — think C4K/4K 60p full-frame footage. But it’s just as much a sports photographer’s camera as it is a videographer’s; take its 25.2-megapixel resolution, ISO range of up to ISO 25600 with 75 fps Continuous Shooting, and 1/8000 shutter as proof.
Key Features:
- Resolution: 25.2MP
- Shutter speed: 1/8,000 – 60
- Continuous shooting: up to 14 fps
- Camera Format: Micro four thirds
- Processor: Venus Engine
- 779-Point Phase-Detection AF System
- ISO Range: 50 to 25,600
- SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card slots
- In-body 5-axis image stabilization
Why is this a great sports camera?
An innovative video feature in the Lumix G9 II helps photographers get memorable shots even when a burst of action is unexpected. The helpful Pre-Burst mode takes photos one second before and one second after you press the shutter, so even when you’re not quite sure when a big moment is coming, you can still get a spectacular photo.
Sports Photography Camera Buying Guide [Essential Features]
We’ve presented a few of the best sports photography cameras on the scene, but what if you had your eye on another camera, or you need your model to work for sports, action, and other types of photography? Regardless of which camera you choose, it helps to look for a few key features if you intend to create stunning sports action photographs.
What’s the best camera for sports photography? Any camera will do as long as you know which settings to change, and how to use the camera to the best of its ability.
As you shop for new sports cameras, pay attention to these features to make sure the model you have in mind can capture the types of sports pictures you’d like to create. We’ll go through each setting, why it’s important, and what you can hope to achieve by using it.
Continuous Shooting Mode
Also called burst mode, continuous shooting mode is a setting photographers use to take lots of pictures in a short period of time. With continuous shot cameras, if you press and hold the shutter button, you’ll take not just one image, but a series. As soon as the shutter closes on one exposure, it opens again to begin the next.
Continuous shot cameras are particularly helpful for sports action photographs because you can follow the range of motion and have plenty of shots to choose from later. Imagine being able to capture not just a single photograph of a batter swinging at a baseball, but ten in sequence. You’re that much more likely to capture that magic moment when the bat and ball connect.
Burst or continuous shooting are a must-have setting for sports cameras.
ISO Sensitivity Range
When you shop for a camera, you’ll often see the term ISO Sensitivity Range. This represents the maximum and minimum ISOs available to you. Typically you’ll want a range of at least 100-25,000, but it’s also important to check out the quality of the images taken at the high end of the ISO sensitivity range. Some cameras can shoot at very high ISOs, but the photos are so noisy they aren’t very usable.
Why does ISO sensitivity matter for sports photography? Well, you’ll want to capture the action regardless of available light. But you also need to keep your shutter speed fast to freeze the action. ISO range gives you some wiggle room, so you can let in more light and still get your shot — even in dim gymnasiums or at night games.
Image Processors
Your camera’s image processor is one of the most important components, yet we often take these vital units for granted. When you click the shutter, the image processor evaluates the scene, capturing everything within it. The processor then translates the image into digital code for storage on a memory card.
With every image taken, your camera works hard. It works even harder if it’s a quick-shooting camera or a continuous-shot camera. If your camera records 20+ MP images and you take 12 photos per second in burst mode, you’re asking the image processor to record a large amount of data in a short period of time.
Slow image processors will lag behind and your camera won’t let you take any more photos until it’s finished processing. That’s why a fast processor is vital in quick-shooting cameras. You want to finish your shot and keep going.
Megapixels
In most genres of photography, it’s normal to want to maximize your megapixel count. The more megapixels in your camera’s sensor, the more you can enlarge your photos or crop in tight on the action in post processing.
That said, you can have too much of a good thing. The more megapixels each photo contains, the longer it takes to process every image. If you’re shooting slower-paced, more predictable sports or games, you can get away with shooting massive photo files. However, if you need the flexibility of shooting long sequences in burst mode, it’s better to select a mid-range megapixel count.
Image Stabilization
When you’re shooting in low light, image stabilization can make the difference between getting your shot and completely missing it. Most in-camera image stabilization systems give you an extra 2-3 stops of light. That means your shutter speed can be 2-3 stops slower than you’re normally willing to shoot — yet still capture a sharp image.
If you’re lucky enough to find a sports camera with a serious image stabilization system and it’s in your budget, you’re on the right track to creating great action photography.
Eye AF Tracking & Sophisticated AF Tracking
Eye AF Tracking refers to an autofocus system that can lock on to a person’s eye. The system ensures that the eye remains in focus regardless of the subject’s movement. This technology is especially useful in certain types of sports photography where you care most about keeping the subject’s face in focus.
Other sophisticated autofocus tracking systems let you shoot a subject in burst or pan mode while keeping them tack-sharp throughout their range of motion.
If you’ve ever tried to focus on a subject and missed the moment, while your camera’s autofocus system searched ineffectively for something to lock on to, you’ll understand why the right AF system is vital in sports photography.
The Takeaway
Camera technology changes constantly as brands try to compete. While it’s easy to get caught up in exciting developments related to processors, autofocusing systems, and helpful features, it’s also important to honestly assess your needs in a camera for sports photography.
If you’re a beginner sports photographer, start by focusing on your goals and preferences as you explore what gear works best for your needs.
Feature photo by Joshua Hanson on Unsplash
