On Muted, we believe in providing the best camera options and advice possible for our readers. We also believe that everyone should chase whatever career dreams and goals that they may have. Keeping the latter in mind, when it comes to being a professional photographer, it is of the utmost importance that you have the absolute best professional DSLR camera possible on your side.
Today we are going to share with you a list of the best professional DSLR cameras that every photographer should consider. Whether you’re brand loyal or looking to explore different options, these four professional grade cameras should definitely be on your shortlist.
Professional DSLR Comparison Chart – If you’re looking for a quick view of the specs and pricing check out our DSLR Comparison chart below.
Canon 1DX Mark II
Canon as a brand has been one of the front-runners with respect to professional DSLR cameras. If professional photography is your career or your personal passion then the 1DX is one of the best cameras you can have in your kit whether you’re shooting video or taking photos. With the Canon 1DX Mark II DSLR ($5699) professional grade camera, you can definitely expect quality videos and photos for yourself and your clients.
The 1DX Mark II is a member of the professional class that many expert professional photographers from weddings, portrait, studio, nature/landscape, and sports photographers have used for many years. This DSLR camera has won the DP Review Gold Award and the hearts of many professionals. The sophisticated design and innovation that was put into the 1DX are unreal. With 20.2 megapixels, full frame sensor, GPS capability, continuous shooting at 14 frames per second (and more) it is definitely worth the financial investment. The legacy of the Canon Mark series will continue and if you are looking to be a part of (or continue to be a loyal family member) of the Canon brand, then this camera is worth a look.
Specifications
Megapixels: 20.2
Sensor Size: Full Frame
AF Points: 61 pts
ISO: 200-51200
In Body Stabilization: Yes
Video Resolution: 2160p @ 59.94 fps
Continuous Shooting: 16 fps
Price: $5699
Nikon D5
When it comes to using Nikon brand DSLR cameras, rest assure that you are stepping into the modern area of DSLRs and in good hands. The Nikon D5 ($6496) is one of the most used professional grade cameras on the market today. No matter what type of photography you shoot. With 20.8 megapixels, 153 autofocus points, an ISO range of 102-102400, and the signature Nikon FX-Format sensor, the D5 packs a powerful punch. There are a variety of features and specifications that you will enjoy from your older Nikon DSLRs.
Are you looking to capture videos on top of the amazing photos that you will be shooting? The D5 has a wide range of video quality options including 4K UHD, Full HD, and HD. The 4K UHD element produces videos at 2160p at 30 frames per second. That is extremely powerful for a DSLR and will provide high-quality videos. With the EN-EL18a Lithium-ion Battery, you will be able to shoot for countless hours before you have to even think about recharging your battery (or using a backup battery, which we highly recommend you get as well). The D5 DSLR for a professional photographer is definitely worth every single penny.
Specifications
Megapixels: 20.8
Sensor Size: Full Frame
AF Points: 1153
ISO: 100-102400
In Body Stabilization: Yes
Video Resolution: 2160p @ 30fps
Continuous Shooting: 12 fps
Price: $6496
Sony a9
Sony is one of the most popular brands in electronics and DSLR cameras today. They have been able to take the feedback from their consumer base and exceed every expectation. The Sony a9 DSLR Camera ($4500) is widely popular among professional photographers. Genres of photography such as (but not limited to) nature/landscape, weddings/engagements, studio (i.e. models and products), sports, and wildlife are all perfect for this DSLR. The Sony a9 has amazing features that will help take your photography to the next level. With 24.2 megapixels, 693 autofocus points, full frame sensor, and an ISO range of 100-51200, your photos will have the high quality that is worth hanging in homes and art shows whether you’re shooting during the day or at night.
The body of the a9 is very lightweight and easy to hold for extended periods. Other features that this DSLR has includes the BIONZ X processing engine, continuous shooting of up to 20 fps (for fast pace environments), and XAVC S 4K video recording quality. The a9 is the perfect DSLR that has everything you need for photography and videography in one unit.
Specifications
Megapixels: 24.2
Sensor Size: Full Frame
AF Points: 693 pts
ISO: 100-51200
In Body Stabilization: Yes
Video Resolution: 2160p @ 25 fps
Continuous Shooting: 20 fps
Price: $4500
Panasonic GH5
The last professional DSLR camera on our list is also the most affordable Panasonic Lumix GH5 ($1999). If you are looking to step your photography work to the next level but are on a budget that does not fit the previous DSLRs, the GH5 is for you. The GH5 will still provide you the professional high-quality photos at a reasonable price.
The GH5 may seem like a compact size DSLR, but it definitely has a number of features professional photographers need. With 20.3 megapixels for still images and video recording quality as high as 4K at 60 frames per second, this is the perfect combo if you want both photos and videos in your work. A major noteworthy element to the GH5 is that it is a mirrorless DSLR (which allows for faster processing and lighter weight). This is perfect for the professionals that are working on projects where portability is important.
Specifications
Megapixels: 20.3
Sensor Size: Compact Sensor (17.3mm x 13.0mm)
AF Points: 225 pts
ISO: 100-25600
In Body Stabilization: Yes
Video Resolution: 2160p @ 59.94 fps
Continuous Shooting: 12 fps
Price: $1999
DSLR Specification Comparison Chart
( Scroll to the right for more columns )
| Name | Price | MPs | Size | AF PTs | ISO | I.B.Stab | Vid. Res. | F.P.S |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony a9 | $4,500 | 24.2 | Full Frame | 693 pts | 100-51200 | Yes | [email protected] | 20fps |
| Panasonic Lumix GH5 | $1,797 | 20.3 | MFT | 225 pts | 200-25600 | Yes | [email protected] | 12fps |
| Nikon D5 | $6,496 | 20.8 | Full Frame | 153 pts | 100-102400 | No | [email protected] | 12fps |
| Canon 1DX Mark II | $5,499 | 20.2 | Full Frame | 61 pts | 100-51200 | No | [email protected] | 16fps |
