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Shop camera gear for macro photography

CAMERAS & LENSES FOR MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY


Explore the world in intricate detail.

With macro photography, the tiniest details of even everyday objects can become something far more beautiful and fascinating. Let’s take a look at cameras and lenses that can help you grasp these moments.

Closeup macro photograph of a pinecone

Cameras

Almost any camera is capable of shooting macro photos, but to get the best shots, cameras with larger sensors will provide better dynamic range and image quality, which will help you capture all of those juicy little details.

Compare the Specs

Model Canon EOS R6 Mark II Canon EOS R7 Canon T7 Nikon Z5 Nikon Z6 II Sony A7 IV Sony Alpha 7C
Megapixels 24.2MP 32.5MP 24.10MP 24.3MP 24.5MP 33.0MP 24.2MP
Sensor Type/Size CMOS / 36 x 24 mm / 1.42 x 0.94 in CMOS / 22.3 x 14.8 mm / 0.88 x 0.58 in CMOS / 22.3 x 14.9 mm / 0.88 x 0.59 in CMOS / 35.9 x 23.9 mm / 1.41 x 0.94 in CMOS / 35.9 x 23.9 mm / 1.41 x 0.94 in CMOS / 35.9 x 23.9 mm / 0.92 x 0.61 in Exmor CMOS / 35.6 x 23.8 mm / 1.40 x 0.94 in
Processor DIGIC X DIGIC X DIGIC 4+ EXPEED 6 2 X EXPEED 6 BIONZ XR BIONZ X
Stabilization Up to 8 stops of shake correction with Coordinated IS 5-axis In-body Image Stabilization with auto-level technology In-lens 3-axis VR/5-axis VR, depending upon lens used 5-axis VR 5-axis optical image 5-axis In-body
ISO Sensitivity 100-102400 100-32000 (expandable to 51200) 100-6400 (expandable to 12800) 100-51,200 (Expanded: Low to 50; High to 102,400) 100-51,200 (Expanded: 50 to 204,800) Still: 100 to 51200, Expandable: 50 to 204800 100-51200 (Expandable: 50-204800)

Best Pick for Beginners

Best camera for macro photography beginners: Canon EOS Rebel T7

For those just beginning their photographic journey, or on a tighter budget, we recommend the Canon EOS Rebel T7 with 18-55 IS II Lens. The EOS T7 DSLR camera opens the door to a world of flexible options. Nine autofocus points and AI Servo autofocus will help keep your subject in focus while a 24MP sensor provides enough resolution for high-quality printed photos. The 18-55mm IS II lens features a minimum focus distance of 25 cm (9.84 in) and a circular aperture for exquisite rendering of out-of-focus backgrounds, perfect for portraits and macro photography. Canon offers a wide range of additional lenses, so you can easily expand your creative capabilities.

Take a deeper look at the Canon EOS Rebel T7 with 18-55mm IS II Lens

Best Overall

Best camera overall for macro photography: Canon EOS R6 Mark II

Choosing a new camera is very much a personal choice, but there’s one model that was most recommended by our experts: The Canon EOS R6 Mark II with RF 24-105mm f4-7.1 IS STM Lens. With a 24.2MP full-frame sensor and a DIGIC X Image Processor to help you capture sharp and detailed images, up to 30fps shooting, blazing fast autofocus, in-body image stabilization, and subject detection developed using Deep Learning, the EOS R6 Mark II carries a suite of features and technical capabilities to make shooting photos and videos a rewarding experience. Shoot photos from as close as one inch away with the RF 24-105mm lens, which features a maximum magnification of 0.5x using Center Macro Focus.

Shop the EOS R6 Mark II with RF 24-105mm f4-7.1 IS STM Lens

Lenses for Incredible Detail

By definition, a macro lens is one that reproduces the image at a 1:1 ratio of its original size, or greater (ie. 2:1, 3:1, etc.) and can capture images clearly within a short focusing distance. Canon, Nikon, Sony and other major brands offer lenses in this range. Additional options are available as well from third-party brands like Sigma and Tamron, sometimes at lower price points which make them great options for budget-conscious photographers. Specialty lenses like those from Laowa offer more creative flexibility.

Macro Shots from a Distance

Macro photograph of an owl's eyes

Getting up close to your subject can sometimes interfere with the lighting. Sometimes getting up close isn’t possible at all. How do you capture macro shots of something you can’t get close to?

Not only do telephoto lenses solve this problem, but they can also bring more creative options to the picture, such as better depth of field, more natural light and a wider range of framing opportunities. Olympus has some helpful information on shooting telephoto macro photos in this article.

Macro for Every Season

The changing seasons offer new opportunities to capture photos. Birds migrate south or shed their summer garb for winter snowsuits. Leaves flare into brilliant hues before succumbing to gravity. Winter creeps in – first frosts, first snowfall. There are plenty of opportunities to grab your camera and explore the world. Read Get ready for the colors of autumn with macro photography for inspiration and ideas!

Macro photograph of a red autumn leaf

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Additional Information

We’ve found a few resources that you might find helpful as you explore your options:

Read tips and tricks for photographing jewellery

Photographing Jewellery

Tips, example images and an overview of commercial photographer Jody Dole’s setup for shooting photos of jewellery. Read Bright Ideas: Tips and Techniques for Photographing Jewellery

See how four photographers use the Sigma 105mm F2.8 DG DN Macro (Art) Lens

Four Stories from Sigma

Sigma shares stories from four photographers who used the 105mm F2.8 DG DN Macro (Art) Lens to capture fantastic shots of a variety of subjects.

Learn more about Canon lenses for food photography

Food Photography with Canon Lenses

What’s the best Canon lens for food photography? Check out these mouth-watering images to help you decide!

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