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The 10 Most Exciting Cameras of 2023
The 10 Most Exciting Cameras of 2023
by Keenan Hursh
As the year comes to an end it’s only natural to look back and reflect on what’s happened over the past 365 days. And when it comes to the world of photography, quite a lot has happened over just one short year. Countless stunning images were captured and shared, groundbreaking new technology became available, and many exciting new cameras, lenses, and accessories were released.
In today’s article, we’re going to take a look at cameras, and more specifically a special selection of cameras that were released this year. We’ll be exploring 10 cameras from different manufacturers that range widely in price and performance. The common denominator amongst them is simply that they received very high levels of excitement upon their release. Whether they fill a specific niche, contain exciting new technology, offer great features at an affordable price, or anything else, these cameras really got people excited.
It’s also worth noting that this is a subjective list curated by us here at BCJ. These are simply cameras that we are particularly excited about and that we believe are worth mentioning. Of course, there are plenty of other exceptional cameras that were released this year but this list of 10 are the ones that genuinely stood out to us. These cameras are also not listed in any specific order.
With that being said, let’s get right into and take a look at the most exciting cameras of 2023!
In today’s article, we’re going to take a look at cameras, and more specifically a special selection of cameras that were released this year. We’ll be exploring 10 cameras from different manufacturers that range widely in price and performance. The common denominator amongst them is simply that they received very high levels of excitement upon their release. Whether they fill a specific niche, contain exciting new technology, offer great features at an affordable price, or anything else, these cameras really got people excited.
It’s also worth noting that this is a subjective list curated by us here at BCJ. These are simply cameras that we are particularly excited about and that we believe are worth mentioning. Of course, there are plenty of other exceptional cameras that were released this year but this list of 10 are the ones that genuinely stood out to us. These cameras are also not listed in any specific order.
With that being said, let’s get right into and take a look at the most exciting cameras of 2023!
Sony a9 III
Specs:
The Sony a9III is one of the newest cameras on the list, only being released within the last month or two, but it is definitely one of the most exciting. This is the world’s first global shutter mirrorless camera, and that’s a big deal, to say the least. The camera can instantaneously read the entire sensor at once allowing for wicked-fast burst modes of up to 120 fps and lightning-fast flash sync. The camera also features a mind-numbing maximum shutter speed of 1/80,000 second to make everything possible. On top of that, this thing is packed with state-of-the-art Sony mirrorless technology and is an incredibly impressive camera, to say the least. We’re very excited about the brand-new Sony a9 III!
Specs:
- Price: $5,998 USD
- 24.6MP Full-Frame Global Shutter
- Up to 120 fps Cont. Shooting with AF/AE
- 4K 120p 10-bit Video
- 759-Point Phase-Detect AF with Tracking
- 8-Stop 5-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization
- 9.44m-Dot EVF with 240 fps Refresh Rate
- Dual CFexpress Type A/SD Card Slots
The Sony a9III is one of the newest cameras on the list, only being released within the last month or two, but it is definitely one of the most exciting. This is the world’s first global shutter mirrorless camera, and that’s a big deal, to say the least. The camera can instantaneously read the entire sensor at once allowing for wicked-fast burst modes of up to 120 fps and lightning-fast flash sync. The camera also features a mind-numbing maximum shutter speed of 1/80,000 second to make everything possible. On top of that, this thing is packed with state-of-the-art Sony mirrorless technology and is an incredibly impressive camera, to say the least. We’re very excited about the brand-new Sony a9 III!
Nikon Z8
Specs:
The Nikon Z8 is easily one of the biggest, if not the biggest, camera releases of 2023. Of course, Nikon has always produced very high-quality cameras and lenses but at the beginning of 2023, they perhaps seemed to be lacking in the high-end and relatively compact mirrorless body realm. That all changed with the release of the Z8. Not only did Nikon release something to match their competitor’s offerings, but in many ways they surpassed the competition and released perhaps the best well-rounded camera of the year. The Z8 is quite an impressive machine and we’re incredibly excited about it over here at BCJ! Just ask Matt, who bought one as soon as they were released. Check out this article to learn more about the Nikon Z8!
Specs:
- Price: $3997 USD
- 45.7MP FX-Format Stacked CMOS Sensor
- Lightweight Design, 30% Smaller than Z9
- 8.3K 60p N-RAW, 4.1K 60p ProRes RAW
- 8K30p and 4K120p Video, 10-Bit Internal
- Up to 20 fps Raw, 30 fps JPEG Shooting
- 493-Point AF, AI-Based Subject Detection
- CFx Type B & SD Memory Card Slots
The Nikon Z8 is easily one of the biggest, if not the biggest, camera releases of 2023. Of course, Nikon has always produced very high-quality cameras and lenses but at the beginning of 2023, they perhaps seemed to be lacking in the high-end and relatively compact mirrorless body realm. That all changed with the release of the Z8. Not only did Nikon release something to match their competitor’s offerings, but in many ways they surpassed the competition and released perhaps the best well-rounded camera of the year. The Z8 is quite an impressive machine and we’re incredibly excited about it over here at BCJ! Just ask Matt, who bought one as soon as they were released. Check out this article to learn more about the Nikon Z8!
Sony a7R V
Specs:
Technically the a7R V was released in December of 2022 but considering most people didn’t start using it until early 2023 I had to add it to the list. This is yet again, one of the most well-rounded and impressive cameras of the last several years. The a7R V is virtually unmatched when it comes to the number of pixels packed into its sensor and features many other incredibly impressive specs too. If you want a small but mighty camera that is an absolute workhorse in both photo and video then be sure to check out the a7R V! Check out this article to learn more about the Sony A&R V!
Specs:
- Price: $3,898
- 61MP Full-Frame Exmor R BSI CMOS Sensor
- BIONZ XR & AI Processing Unit
- AI-Based Real-Time Tracking AF System
- 8K 24p, 4K 60p, FHD 120p 10-Bit Video
- 4K 16-Bit Raw Output
- 9.44m-Dot EVF with 120 fps Refresh Rate
- 10 fps Shooting with AF/AE Tracking
- 8-Stop 5-Axis Image Stabilization
Technically the a7R V was released in December of 2022 but considering most people didn’t start using it until early 2023 I had to add it to the list. This is yet again, one of the most well-rounded and impressive cameras of the last several years. The a7R V is virtually unmatched when it comes to the number of pixels packed into its sensor and features many other incredibly impressive specs too. If you want a small but mighty camera that is an absolute workhorse in both photo and video then be sure to check out the a7R V! Check out this article to learn more about the Sony A&R V!
Canon EOS R6 Mark II
Specs:
The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is yet another camera that was technically released in late 2022 but I had to add it to the list considering how popular it’s been. Most people didn’t really start using these until early 2023 and, for the price point, this camera gives you quite the bang for your buck. As the little brother to the EOS R5, this camera provides exceptional quality, performance, and reliability at a very realistic and approachable price. Whether you want to capture high-resolution stills at 40 frames a second or 6K ProRes video you’ll be able to do this and more with the R6 Mark II.
Specs:
- Price: $2,499 USD
- 24.2MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor
- 4K60p 10-Bit Internal Video, C-Log 3
- External 6K ProRes RAW Recording
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF II
- 12 fps Mech. Shutter, 40 fps E. Shutter
- Sensor-Shift 5-Axis Image Stabilization
- 3.69m-Dot OLED EVF
- Dual UHS-II Memory Card Slots
The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is yet another camera that was technically released in late 2022 but I had to add it to the list considering how popular it’s been. Most people didn’t really start using these until early 2023 and, for the price point, this camera gives you quite the bang for your buck. As the little brother to the EOS R5, this camera provides exceptional quality, performance, and reliability at a very realistic and approachable price. Whether you want to capture high-resolution stills at 40 frames a second or 6K ProRes video you’ll be able to do this and more with the R6 Mark II.
Sony a7CR
Specs:
The Sony a7CR along with the a7C II made quite the splash when they were released earlier this year. The a7CR combined David and Goliath into one being, providing flagship full-frame capabilities and performance in an incredibly compact and lightweight body. This tiny camera features the same 61-megapixel sensor as the incredible a7RV as well as the same processor. With plenty of other cutting-edge Sony technology housed within this camera is small but mighty! If you want top-of-the-line performance but size and weight really matter, then this just might be the perfect camera for you! Check out this article to learn more about the Sony a7CR!
Specs:
- Price: $2,998 USD
- 61MP Full-Frame Exmor R BSI Sensor
- BIONZ XR Image Processor
- Shooting Up to 8 fps, ISO 50-102,400
- 240.8MP Pixel Shift Multi Shooting
- 10-Bit Full-Frame 4K60p Video
- 7 Stops of In-Body Image Stabilization
- 693-Point Phase Detection, 79% Coverage
- 2.36m-Dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder
The Sony a7CR along with the a7C II made quite the splash when they were released earlier this year. The a7CR combined David and Goliath into one being, providing flagship full-frame capabilities and performance in an incredibly compact and lightweight body. This tiny camera features the same 61-megapixel sensor as the incredible a7RV as well as the same processor. With plenty of other cutting-edge Sony technology housed within this camera is small but mighty! If you want top-of-the-line performance but size and weight really matter, then this just might be the perfect camera for you! Check out this article to learn more about the Sony a7CR!
Sony a7C II
Specs:
Alongside the a7CR, Sony also released the a7C II which is a slightly more affordable option fitting inside the same small and lightweight package. With a full-frame sensor containing 33 megapixels, the same BIONZ XR Image Processor, and plenty of other specs to match the a7CR this is a great little camera. The a7C II really packs a punch and stacks up well against many larger bodies at higher prices. We were incredibly excited about the release of both of these new bodies from Sony. If weight and packability are top concerns and you’re a Sony user, definitely check these out when searching for your next camera. Check out this article to learn more about the Sony a7C II!
Specs:
- Price: $2,198 USD
- 33MP Full-Frame Exmor R BSI Sensor
- BIONZ XR Image Processor
- Shooting up to 10 fps, ISO 50-204,800
- 10-Bit Full-Frame 4K30p Video
- 7 Stope In-Body Image Stabilization
- 759-Point Phase Detection, 94% Coverage AF
- 2.36m-Dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder
- 3” 1.03m-Dot Vari-Angle LCD Touchscreen
- Internal Mic + Inputs, USB Streaming
Alongside the a7CR, Sony also released the a7C II which is a slightly more affordable option fitting inside the same small and lightweight package. With a full-frame sensor containing 33 megapixels, the same BIONZ XR Image Processor, and plenty of other specs to match the a7CR this is a great little camera. The a7C II really packs a punch and stacks up well against many larger bodies at higher prices. We were incredibly excited about the release of both of these new bodies from Sony. If weight and packability are top concerns and you’re a Sony user, definitely check these out when searching for your next camera. Check out this article to learn more about the Sony a7C II!
Canon EOS R8
Specs:
The Canon EOS R8 was a big release in 2023. When I first wrote an article about it I called it perhaps the best bang for your buck on the entire market. Along the same lines as the two previous Sony cameras, this thing is small and mighty, and shares many of the same specs and features as much more expensive cameras. The R8 is, in many ways, a smaller R6 Mark II sharing the exact same sensor, processor, AF Systems, and more. If you want a lightweight and compact camera from Canon that can handle nice glass and perform great at a very approachable price, then definitely check out the R8. This thing is cool! Check out this article to learn more about the Canon EOS R8!
Specs:
- Price: $1,499 USD
- 24.2MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor
- 4K60p 10-Bit Internal Video, Canon Log 3
- 2.36m-Dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder
- 3.0" 1.62m-Dot Vari-Angle Touchscreen
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF II
- 40 fps Electronic Shutter
- Movie Digital IS
- Vertical Movie Mode
The Canon EOS R8 was a big release in 2023. When I first wrote an article about it I called it perhaps the best bang for your buck on the entire market. Along the same lines as the two previous Sony cameras, this thing is small and mighty, and shares many of the same specs and features as much more expensive cameras. The R8 is, in many ways, a smaller R6 Mark II sharing the exact same sensor, processor, AF Systems, and more. If you want a lightweight and compact camera from Canon that can handle nice glass and perform great at a very approachable price, then definitely check out the R8. This thing is cool! Check out this article to learn more about the Canon EOS R8!
Fujifilm X-H2
Specs:
The Fujifilm X-H2 is an incredibly exciting camera that is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with an APS-C sensor. I never thought I would see an APS-C sensor with 40 megapixels but here we are! On top of that, this camera features many other cutting-edge features and the whole thing is packed into a compact and lightweight form factor. With stunning detail and resolution in both stills and up to 4K 60p video, you’ll be amazed at what this camera can do. If you’re looking for impressive full-frame specs and features in a crop sensor body, then the X-H2 just might be the camera for you!
Specs:
- Price: $1,999 USD
- 40MP APS-C X-Trans BSI Sensor
- 7-Stop In-Body Image Stabilization
- 8K 30p, 4K 60p, FHD 240p 10-Bit Video
- 5.76m-Dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder
- 160MP Pixel Shift Multi-Shot
- 20 fps E-Shutter, 15 fps Mech. Shutter
- CFexpress Type B & SD UHS-II Card Slots
The Fujifilm X-H2 is an incredibly exciting camera that is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with an APS-C sensor. I never thought I would see an APS-C sensor with 40 megapixels but here we are! On top of that, this camera features many other cutting-edge features and the whole thing is packed into a compact and lightweight form factor. With stunning detail and resolution in both stills and up to 4K 60p video, you’ll be amazed at what this camera can do. If you’re looking for impressive full-frame specs and features in a crop sensor body, then the X-H2 just might be the camera for you!
Sony a6700
Specs:
Specs:
- Price: $1,398 USD
- 26MP Exmor R APS-C BSI CMOS Sensor
- BIONZ XR Image Processor
- UHD 4K 120p, FHD 240p 10-Bit 4:2:2
- Up to 11-fps Shooting, ISO 100-32000
- 5-Axis Pixel-Level Image Stabilization
- Real-Time Tracking AF for Stills & Video
- 759-Point Phase Detection, 93% Coverage
Fujifilm GFX100 II
Specs:
And last but certainly not least we have arrived at another incredibly exciting camera released only a couple of months ago. Perhaps medium format cameras aren’t nearly as popular as full-frame offerings, but regardless, this camera simply had to be added to the list. The Fujifilm GFX100 II is a wildly impressive camera featuring an absolutely massive sensor housing 102 megapixels in an impressively compact body. This camera is a great upgrade from the original flagship model and features some impressive new features such as an improved processor, better AF performance, and much more. If you’re a medium-format shooter and want incredibly high-resolution, detailed, and stunning images then this just might be the camera for you!
Specs:
- Price: $7,499
- 102MP 43.8x32.9mm BSI CMOS Medium Format Sensor
- X-Processor 5 Image Processor
- 9.44m-Dot Electronic Viewfinder
- 4K60p Video; 10-Bit Out
- 5-Axis Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization
- ISO 80-12800, up to 8 FPS Shooting
And last but certainly not least we have arrived at another incredibly exciting camera released only a couple of months ago. Perhaps medium format cameras aren’t nearly as popular as full-frame offerings, but regardless, this camera simply had to be added to the list. The Fujifilm GFX100 II is a wildly impressive camera featuring an absolutely massive sensor housing 102 megapixels in an impressively compact body. This camera is a great upgrade from the original flagship model and features some impressive new features such as an improved processor, better AF performance, and much more. If you’re a medium-format shooter and want incredibly high-resolution, detailed, and stunning images then this just might be the camera for you!
Conclusion
Well, there you have it. This has been our list of the 10 cameras of 2023 that got us the most excited here at BCJ. A lot can happen in just one short year and it’s always nice to look back and recap. Many new cameras were released within the last year, but these are the ones that really stood out to us. I hope this article has been helpful and informative. Until next time!
Well, there you have it. This has been our list of the 10 cameras of 2023 that got us the most excited here at BCJ. A lot can happen in just one short year and it’s always nice to look back and recap. Many new cameras were released within the last year, but these are the ones that really stood out to us. I hope this article has been helpful and informative. Until next time!
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AUTHOR
AUTHOR
Keenan Hursh is a Photographer, visual designer, and creative story teller based out of Bozeman, Montana. He draws inspiration from his frequent excursions into the natural world and always brings his camera along to capture whatever adventures he finds himself in. Keenan is passionate about documenting and sharing fleeting moments from the natural world and focuses primarily on wildlife, landscape, and adventure photography.
When it comes to gear, he primarily shoots digital with his Canon EOS R5 and EOS 6D mark ii but also has several 35mm film cameras that get out every now and then.
At a very young age, Keenan started bringing a camera along on his excursions and immediately fell in love with the art of photography. He started out with his parent’s cheap point and shoot and has continuously improved his craft and gear refining his shooting style and producing more compelling and intriguing images.
Growing up in the foothills of Boulder, Colorado, surrounded by mountains and wilderness, Keenan has developed a deep passion for many outdoor activities. When he’s not out on a shoot or using his camera, Keenan enjoys skiing, climbing, hiking, backpacking, cycling, whitewater rafting, and paragliding. If he’s outside, away from the distractions of society and civilization, he’s in his happy place.
Keenan studied Emergent Digital Practices at the University of Denver while minoring in Marketing and Entrepreneurship. Since earning his degree in 2019 he was worked with a wide range of clients, companies, and organizations throughout his career. Apart from photography he specializes in content creation, writing, brand development, and graphic design.
You can view Keenan’s portfolio on his website at www.keenanhurshphoto.com
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"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations worldwide.
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Journeys Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLC - Copyright 2024
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Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.