Urban environments provide some of the best material for photography.
Whether you’re drawn to contemporary architecture or the hustle and bustle of a busy street, this style of photography is addictive. However, you need the right tool to capture vibrant images.
The overall best camera for street photography is the Fujifilm X100V Digital Camera. It’s compact but adaptable, with rapid processing, high image quality, and adjustable settings. It also features a handy LCD touchscreen for easy use.
In this review guide, we evaluate the best digital cameras for street photography. We also discuss how to choose the best camera and what you should be aware of when taking pictures in the street.
So, let’s get started.
5 Best Street Photography Cameras in 2021
- Winner: Fujifilm X100V Digital Camera
- Runner-Up: Fujifilm X-T4 Mirrorless Camera
- Fujifilm X-Pro3 Mirrorless Digital Camera
- Ricoh GR III Digital Compact Camera
- Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II Digital Camera
Best Overall: Fujifilm X100V Digital Camera
- Camera Type: Fixed-lens digital camera
- Sensor Size: APS-C
- Sensor Resolution: 26.1MP
- Lens Mount: Fujifilm X
- Image Stabilization: No
- Video Resolution: 2160p
- Weight: 1.05 pounds (476g)
What Makes This Camera Our Top Pick?
The Fujifilm X100V is the best Fuji camera for street photography. It is the overall best option because of its intuitive design and superior features. We particularly like the sensor, which boasts an impressive 26.1MP and a powerful processor.
The camera is slim and light, allowing you to slip it into your pocket or daypack while you wander the streets. Because the camera has an integrated lens, you don’t need to carry any other equipment.
What Do Reviewers Say?
Users like the weather-resistant design of the camera. They say that it makes them feel more confident to shoot in all conditions without worrying about the equipment. They also love how easy it is to adjust the various settings.
However, users dislike the lack of in-built image stabilization. Therefore, you will need a steady hand or to use a tripod, particularly for videos.
Features and Considerations
The X100V allows you to switch between two viewfinders: the magnification optical viewfinder and the electronic viewfinder. You can also use the LCD screen to control and focus the camera with greater ease.
We also like its high-quality video shooting that can handle 4K images and 30fps. Overall, the Fujifilm X100V offers reliability and sophistication for any street photographer or videographer.
Runner-Up: Fujifilm X-T4 Mirrorless Camera
- Camera Type: Mirrorless digital camera
- Sensor Size: APS-C
- Sensor Resolution: 26.1MP
- Lens Mount: Fujifilm X
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Video Resolution: 2160p
- Weight: 1.16 pounds (526g)
What Makes This Camera Our Runner-Up Option?
The Fujifilm X-T4 is the best mirrorless camera for street photography. It is particularly strong when it comes to color, with settings like the ETERNA Bleach Bypass. This setting mixes high-contrast with low saturation for a unique and beautiful photo tint.
Overall, it has high image quality with 26.1MP and 2160p video. It is also extremely fast, with one of the fastest autofocuses on the market and a shutter of 15fps. Paired with reliable image stabilization, it allows you to grab clean images as the action happens.
What Do Reviewers Say?
Users love the high quality of the images and the camera’s compatibility with multiple lenses. They also love how sturdy and resistant the camera is. It has resistance to water, dust, and dirt, making it great for outdoor scenarios.
However, users dislike that the LCD screen does not tilt easily. The shutter button is also less sophisticated than other Fujifilm models.
Features and Considerations
The X-T4 is an excellent option for professional photographers. It has multiple settings knobs that allow you to adjust shutter speed, ISO, and exposure.
It has an excellent battery life and includes two slots for SD cards. These features allow you to shoot all day and night, capturing the most vibrant images from the street.
Alternative: Fujifilm X-Pro3 Mirrorless Digital Camera
- Camera Type: Mirrorless digital camera
- Sensor Size: APS-C
- Sensor Resolution: 26.1MP
- Lens Mount: Fujifilm X
- Image Stabilization: No
- Video Resolution: 2160p
- Weight: 2.4 pounds (1.09kg)
What Makes This Camera a Good Choice?
The Fujifilm X-Pro3 Mirrorless Digital Camera is one of the priciest options and one of the most sophisticated. It particularly shines in the color department, offering 16 different modes that resemble film. These modes include monochromatic color and classic negative.
It has an extremely fast X-Processor and a premium 26.1 megapixel CMOS sensor. It springs to attention when needed and focuses on high-quality images. We also like the motion blur reduction technology, which comes in handy with moving subjects.
What Do Reviewers Say?
Users love the durable construction of the camera, which includes titanium at the top and bottom of the unit. They also like the dynamic range of the camera and how well it works as a handheld unit, as an extension of the self.
However, it does not perform well with quickly moving objects, like sports or animals. It should function fine with slow movements in the street but particularly shines with still subjects.
Features and Considerations
The X-Pro3 is compact and weather-resistant, making it an excellent option for using outside in any conditions. It also performs well in lowlight conditions, allowing you to capture images at sunrise and sunset.
Overall, its design is intended for professional photographers. It uses both optical and electronic viewfinders to allow artists to see the image as clearly and accurately as possible. It also incorporates a hidden LCD screen to eliminate any distractions.
Alternative: Ricoh GR III Digital Compact Camera
- Camera Type: Hybrid digital camera
- Sensor Size: APS-C
- Sensor Resolution: 24.2MP
- Lens Mount: Pentax AF
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Video Resolution: 1080p
- Weight: 0.57 pounds (259g)
What Makes This Camera a Great Option?
The Ricoh GR III Digital Compact Camera is tiny and lightweight, weighing just 0.57 pounds (259g). However, it has a large, high-performance sensor with 24.2 megapixels. Therefore, it allows for the same large-as-life photography without the strain on your hands.
It has impressive image stabilization, which uses three axes to keep your image steady. It also performs well with a high ISO for low light scenarios and an accurate autofocus. The latter uses phase and contrast detection for ultimate precision.
What Do Reviewers Say?
Users like the layout of the camera. The buttons are easy to access so you can change any of the many settings. They also appreciate the overall image quality, especially considering how small and compact the camera is.
However, some users complain about short battery life. They report that the camera can only handle up to 200 images continuously. Therefore, you will need to keep your shoots short or take a backup battery.
Features and Considerations
It includes both WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to transfer your images for social media sharing. You can also directly plug in a USB to make backups of your precious photos.
Overall, the GR III isn’t the cheapest option on the market. However, it fits the bill nicely if you’re looking for a combination of small but powerful.
Alternative: Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II Digital Camera
- Camera Type: Digital zoom camera
- Sensor Size: 1-inch stacked
- Sensor Resolution: 20.1MP
- Lens Mount: N/A
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Video Resolution: 4K or 2160p
- Weight: 1.76 ounces (49.9g)
What Makes This Camera Special?
The Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II is the best affordable street photography camera. It has an extremely lightweight, point-and-shoot design that you can slip into your pocket and whip out on the street. Despite its small size, it still features a decent sensor of 20.1 megapixels.
It performs well with video, allowing you to capture full 4K at 30fps. It includes an optical image stabilizer so you can get clear images with both video and photos. The autofocus is speedy and it has a pop-up viewfinder, going beyond the simple design of other digital zoom cameras.
What Do Reviewers Say?
Users like the tilting LCD screen, which is high-quality and allows you better control over the camera. They also enjoy the user-friendly controls, which are simple even for complete novices. The wireless connectivity is also a handy feature.
However, they dislike the limited flash and white balance modes. It is also not a great option for professionals because you are limited in your control over the camera.
Features and Considerations
Overall, this Canon street photography camera could be a great choice if you’re a beginner or on a budget. It is lightweight, affordable, and high-quality: a winning combination.
What to Look For in a Street Photography Camera?
These are a few common characteristics to look for in a street photography camera:
- Lightweight and portable: If you’re walking around looking for photography subjects, you don’t need heavy items weighing you down. Compact and lightweight cameras that won’t tire you over time are the best option.
- Silent operation: If you like to take candid shots, then being discrete is crucial. By using a camera with a silent shutter, you can prevent people around you from hearing and looking up. People tend to act differently when they know they are being photographed.
- Fast operation: If you want to photograph moving scenes, then you need a camera that can keep up. Speedy autofocus and shutter speeds are the highest priorities. They allow you to capture moving images without blurring them or losing detail.
- Resistant design: Street photography happens outside, so you need a camera that can withstand weather changes. Waterproof designs and weather sealing could be lifesavers.
Street Photography Cameras FAQ
What Cameras Do Street Photographers Use?
There are a few different kinds of cameras that street photographers use. These include DSLRs, film cameras, mirrorless, digital zoom cameras, and smartphones. Each variety has its advantages and disadvantages.
DSLRs
Digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) cameras are popular with all kinds of photographers. They usually have the best image sensors and best image quality.
These are the pros of using DSLRs for street photography:
- They have multiple customizable features and settings.
- They can shoot photos at high speed and capture moving objects.
- You can easily change lenses for different shots while out and about.
However, they also have some disadvantages for street photography:
- DSLRs are usually the most expensive options.
- The cameras are bulky and heavy, which could get tiresome to carry.
- The multiple features can be confusing for complete beginners.
Film Cameras
Film cameras have a timeless vintage feel that brings out the best of many subjects. They are popular with photographers who want to explore alternative ways of capturing images.
These are the pros of using film cameras for street photography:
- You will have a physical copy of your photos for photo albums or scrapbooks.
- You have options to explore your creativity with the manual controls.
- The photos have a unique, vintage aesthetic.
However, film cameras also have some drawbacks for street photography:
- You cannot preview your photos.
- You are limited to the number of shots in your roll of film.
- It is more expensive and time-consuming to develop photos.
Mirrorless Cameras
Mirrorless cameras are a cheaper, beginner-friendly alternative to DSLRs. They are generally the most popular option with street photographers.
These are the pros of using mirrorless cameras for street photography:
- They are smaller and lighter than DSLRs.
- You can use them with different lenses.
- There are many customizable settings.
- They often have WiFi connectivity for instant social sharing.
Mirrorless cameras also have some disadvantages for street photography:
- Their autofocus is slower than DSLRs.
- There are not as many compatible lenses on the market.
- They have shorter battery life.
Digital Zoom Cameras
Digital zoom cameras are also known as point-and-shoot cameras. They lack the complexity of other camera types, but they are still popular with many amateur photographers.
These are the pros of using point-and-shoot cameras for street photography:
- They are compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry.
- They have many automatic settings for beginners.
- They are silent.
However, point-and-shoot cameras have some limitations for street photography:
- You cannot change the lens.
- You cannot control many of the camera settings.
- The image quality is usually lower.
Smartphones
Finally, you can also use the camera on your smartphone to photograph the street.
These are the advantages:
- The phone is small and discrete.
- It is convenient and lightweight.
- Many smartphones include in-built editing programs.
However, there are also some cons to using your smartphone for street photography:
- The images are of lower quality.
- You cannot change many settings.
- The battery life is shorter.
What Is the Best Camera for Hobby Photography?
The best camera for hobby photography is an entry-level model like the Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II Digital Camera. The simple point-and-shoot design is accommodating for beginners, and it still has decent image quality.
If you want to shoot just for fun, there’s no need to spend a lot of money on an expensive DSLR. A more straightforward camera that allows you some control lets you practice different settings and techniques.
If you are looking for a more complex model than a point-and-shoot, then a mirrorless camera can be a good compromise. It allows you to adjust more settings but lacks the weight and complexity of a DSLR.
Is Street Photography Illegal?
Street photography is not inherently illegal in the United States. It is allowed because the Supreme Court decided that people cannot expect privacy in public places. For this reason, surveillance like CCTV and police body cams are perfectly legal.
However, this is not the case in every country. For example, it is not permitted in France, and the law recognizes that you must ask for permission. If you have doubts, you should check the rules and regulations of your country.
Furthermore, even though street photography is legal in the US, there are restrictions on what you can do with the content.
For example, you cannot use street photographs in any advertisement without legal permission. You will need to draw up a contract and get any person from the photo to sign the model release. Otherwise, they can sue you.
If you are photographing buildings, then you may also need permission from the owners if you want to use the pictures commercially. It is safer to consult with an attorney, so you are clear on your obligations and rights.
Apart from legality, there are also some moral issues to consider with street photography. For example, photographing children could be upsetting for their parents. In some cultures, people also do not allow themselves to be photographed. If in doubt, you should ask for permission.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best street photography camera is the Fujifilm X100V Digital Camera. It is lightweight and compact but lightning-fast with sharp detail and beautiful photos.
When choosing a street photography camera, remember that you will be on your feet and moving around. You want a model that can adapt to these movements without losing detail or slowing you down.
If you’re just starting out, it could be better to start with a simpler point-and-shoot model. As you improve, you can move on to a mirrorless model or DSLR.
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