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The Best Full-Frame Mirrorless Cameras for Landscape Photography
by Keenan Hursh
Landscape photography, an intricate art form that captures the world's natural beauty, has an undeniable allure that draws photographers into its embrace. It's a pursuit that not only freezes moments in time but also evokes powerful emotions and fosters a deep connection with the natural world.
As the light of the sun paints the land with its golden hues and shadows cast enchanting patterns, landscape photographers embark on a journey of discovery, seeking to encapsulate the awe-inspiring grandeur of nature within the confines of a frame.
At its heart, landscape photography is about more than just capturing scenery; it's about expressing your unique perspective and inviting others to see the world through your eyes. The intricate interplay of light and shadow, the intermingling of colors, and the grand scale of nature's creations provide an endless canvas for artistic exploration. Every photograph becomes a testament to your experience – a visual story that encapsulates the sensation of the breeze, the scent of the earth, and the symphony of nature.
In order to translate the enchantment of landscapes into stunning images, selecting the right camera is paramount. A full-frame mirrorless camera is an ideal companion for this purpose, as it combines cutting-edge technology with the ability to capture intricate details, vibrant colors, and expansive vistas. The camera becomes a conduit through which you can channel your creative vision and share the profound experiences of your journeys.
In today’s article, we’ll dive into the specific factors that make a camera excel in landscape photography. We will also explore a curated list of the absolute best full-frame mirrorless cameras for landscape photography in 2023.
Let’s get into it!
As the light of the sun paints the land with its golden hues and shadows cast enchanting patterns, landscape photographers embark on a journey of discovery, seeking to encapsulate the awe-inspiring grandeur of nature within the confines of a frame.
At its heart, landscape photography is about more than just capturing scenery; it's about expressing your unique perspective and inviting others to see the world through your eyes. The intricate interplay of light and shadow, the intermingling of colors, and the grand scale of nature's creations provide an endless canvas for artistic exploration. Every photograph becomes a testament to your experience – a visual story that encapsulates the sensation of the breeze, the scent of the earth, and the symphony of nature.
In order to translate the enchantment of landscapes into stunning images, selecting the right camera is paramount. A full-frame mirrorless camera is an ideal companion for this purpose, as it combines cutting-edge technology with the ability to capture intricate details, vibrant colors, and expansive vistas. The camera becomes a conduit through which you can channel your creative vision and share the profound experiences of your journeys.
In today’s article, we’ll dive into the specific factors that make a camera excel in landscape photography. We will also explore a curated list of the absolute best full-frame mirrorless cameras for landscape photography in 2023.
Let’s get into it!
What Makes a Camera Great for Landscape Photography?
So, what actually makes a camera ideal for landscape photography? Let’s break it down and discuss some of the key factors you should consider.
Resolution and Image Quality:
One of the most important factors to consider is a camera's resolution or image quality. This is quite simply the number of pixels or megapixels on a camera’s sensor. A high-resolution sensor is crucial to capture fine details, textures, and expansive landscapes. Look for cameras with at least 24 megapixels, as they provide ample resolution and will allow you to significantly crop If necessary. Having a high number of megapixels is especially important if you plan to print your images rather than just view them on a digital screen.
Dynamic Range:
Another very important factor to consider when shooting landscapes is your camera’s native dynamic range. Dynamic range is the range of light that your camera can capture in a single image from darks to highlights. Having a higher dynamic range allows you to capture more details in an image and to shoot in a wider range of lighting conditions. Landscape scenes often have a wide range of light, from bright highlights to deep shadows. A camera with excellent dynamic range preserves details in both extremes, ensuring your images aren't marred by overexposed highlights or underexposed shadows.
Lens Selection:
You’ll also want to make sure that you select a camera that has many high-quality lens options available. Being able to capture landscapes with different focal lengths and perspectives gives you much more creative freedom. Luckily any high-quality camera body from any well-known manufacturer will likely have a wide range of excellent lenses. A versatile lens lineup ensures you can tackle various scenes effectively.
Low-Light Performance:
Whether it's capturing the starry night sky or the soft glow of sunrise, a camera with strong low-light performance and minimal noise at high ISO settings is vital for producing stunning images in challenging lighting situations. Most modern mirrorless cameras have great low-light performance and far exceed any DSLR camera, but this is definitely something to keep in mind.
So, what actually makes a camera ideal for landscape photography? Let’s break it down and discuss some of the key factors you should consider.
Resolution and Image Quality:
One of the most important factors to consider is a camera's resolution or image quality. This is quite simply the number of pixels or megapixels on a camera’s sensor. A high-resolution sensor is crucial to capture fine details, textures, and expansive landscapes. Look for cameras with at least 24 megapixels, as they provide ample resolution and will allow you to significantly crop If necessary. Having a high number of megapixels is especially important if you plan to print your images rather than just view them on a digital screen.
Dynamic Range:
Another very important factor to consider when shooting landscapes is your camera’s native dynamic range. Dynamic range is the range of light that your camera can capture in a single image from darks to highlights. Having a higher dynamic range allows you to capture more details in an image and to shoot in a wider range of lighting conditions. Landscape scenes often have a wide range of light, from bright highlights to deep shadows. A camera with excellent dynamic range preserves details in both extremes, ensuring your images aren't marred by overexposed highlights or underexposed shadows.
Lens Selection:
You’ll also want to make sure that you select a camera that has many high-quality lens options available. Being able to capture landscapes with different focal lengths and perspectives gives you much more creative freedom. Luckily any high-quality camera body from any well-known manufacturer will likely have a wide range of excellent lenses. A versatile lens lineup ensures you can tackle various scenes effectively.
Low-Light Performance:
Whether it's capturing the starry night sky or the soft glow of sunrise, a camera with strong low-light performance and minimal noise at high ISO settings is vital for producing stunning images in challenging lighting situations. Most modern mirrorless cameras have great low-light performance and far exceed any DSLR camera, but this is definitely something to keep in mind.
The Best Full-Frame Mirrorless Cameras for Landscape Photography
Now that we’ve gone over some of the key factors to consider when selecting an ideal camera for landscape photography, let’s take a look at some of the cameras currently on the market that check all of these boxes and will get the job done. Not only do these options merely check off the basics, these are some of the highest-performance machines out there.
Here are our personal picks for the absolute best full-frame mirrorless cameras for landscape photography:
Now that we’ve gone over some of the key factors to consider when selecting an ideal camera for landscape photography, let’s take a look at some of the cameras currently on the market that check all of these boxes and will get the job done. Not only do these options merely check off the basics, these are some of the highest-performance machines out there.
Here are our personal picks for the absolute best full-frame mirrorless cameras for landscape photography:
Sony a1
Specs:
The Sony A1 is a flagship mirrorless camera designed for professionals who demand the best. It boasts a remarkable 50-megapixel full-frame sensor, which delivers stunning image quality with exceptional detail and dynamic range. The A1 also offers an impressive 15-stop dynamic range making it great for all kinds of shooting conditions. This is an exceptional camera and with the Sony a1 you’ll be able to capture stunning landscape images with ease.
Specs:
- Price: $6,500 USD
- 50MP Full-Frame R BSI CMOS Sensor
- 8K 24P, 4K 60p, FHD 120p 10-Bit Video
- AI-Based Real-Time Tracking AF System
- 9.44m-Dot EVF with 120 fps Refresh Rate
- 8-Stop 5-Axis Image Stabilization
The Sony A1 is a flagship mirrorless camera designed for professionals who demand the best. It boasts a remarkable 50-megapixel full-frame sensor, which delivers stunning image quality with exceptional detail and dynamic range. The A1 also offers an impressive 15-stop dynamic range making it great for all kinds of shooting conditions. This is an exceptional camera and with the Sony a1 you’ll be able to capture stunning landscape images with ease.
Nikon Z9
Specs:
The Nikon Z9 is a high-performance and incredibly capable flagship mirrorless camera that combines outstanding image quality with professional-grade performance. Its 45.7-megapixel full-frame sensor delivers stunning detail and clarity, even in challenging lighting conditions. The Z9 has all the features you’ll need to capture the absolute best landscape images!
Specs:
- Price: $5,500 USD
- 45.7MP Ful-Frame FX-Format Stacked CMOS Sensor
- 8.3K 60p N-RAW, 4.1K 60p ProRes RAW
- 8K 30p and 4K 120p, 10-Bit Internal Video
- Up to 20 fps Raw, 30 fps JPEG Shooting
- 493-Point AF, AI-Based Subject Detection
The Nikon Z9 is a high-performance and incredibly capable flagship mirrorless camera that combines outstanding image quality with professional-grade performance. Its 45.7-megapixel full-frame sensor delivers stunning detail and clarity, even in challenging lighting conditions. The Z9 has all the features you’ll need to capture the absolute best landscape images!
Canon EOS R5
Specs:
The Canon EOS R5 is a very impressive, feature-packed mirrorless camera that excels in the art of landscape photography. Its 45-megapixel full-frame sensor produces high-resolution images with excellent detail and incredible low-light performance. With its versatile feature set, durable build quality, and reliable performance, the EOS R5 is a top choice for professional landscape photographers using the Canon mirrorless system.
Specs:
- Price: $3,900 USD
- 45MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor
- 8K30 RAW and 4K120 10-Bit Internal Video
- 400MP In-Camera Files with No Software
- Sensor-Shift 5-Axis Image Stabilization
- 12 fps Mech. Shutter, 20 fps E. Shutter
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF II with 1053 Points
- Subject Tracking with Deep Learning
- CFexpress & SD UHS-II Memory Card Slots
The Canon EOS R5 is a very impressive, feature-packed mirrorless camera that excels in the art of landscape photography. Its 45-megapixel full-frame sensor produces high-resolution images with excellent detail and incredible low-light performance. With its versatile feature set, durable build quality, and reliable performance, the EOS R5 is a top choice for professional landscape photographers using the Canon mirrorless system.
Fujifilm GFX 100S
Specs:
The Fujifilm GFX 100S is a medium-format mirrorless camera that offers exceptional image quality and resolution. It features a 102-megapixel medium format sensor, producing incredibly detailed images with rich colors and tones. And you can increase the resolution all the way to 400 megapixels by utilizing the Pixel Shift Multi Focus function. The GFX 100S also incorporates Fujifilm's renowned Film Simulation modes, allowing photographers to replicate the look and feel of classic film stocks. With 5-axis image stabilization, weather sealing, a great electronic viewfinder, and a compact form factor, the GFX 100S is a powerful tool for landscape photographers seeking the highest possible image quality all in a relatively portable package. If you want to achieve massive prints or want the highest possible resolution this is the camera for you!
Specs:
- Price: $5,500 USD
- 102 MP 43.9 x 32.9mm BSI CMOS Medium Format Sensor
- 4K30 Video; F-Log Gamma, 12-Bit Raw Out Video
- 3.69m-Dot OLED EVF
- 5-Axis Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization
- 425-Point Phase-Detection Autofocus
- 400MP Pixel Shift Multi-Shot
- 19 Film Simulation Modes
The Fujifilm GFX 100S is a medium-format mirrorless camera that offers exceptional image quality and resolution. It features a 102-megapixel medium format sensor, producing incredibly detailed images with rich colors and tones. And you can increase the resolution all the way to 400 megapixels by utilizing the Pixel Shift Multi Focus function. The GFX 100S also incorporates Fujifilm's renowned Film Simulation modes, allowing photographers to replicate the look and feel of classic film stocks. With 5-axis image stabilization, weather sealing, a great electronic viewfinder, and a compact form factor, the GFX 100S is a powerful tool for landscape photographers seeking the highest possible image quality all in a relatively portable package. If you want to achieve massive prints or want the highest possible resolution this is the camera for you!
Sony a7R V
Specs:
The Sony a7R V is a high-resolution mirrorless workhorse that caters to photographers who demand uncompromising performance in capturing landscape images. Its 61-megapixel full-frame sensor delivers incredible detail and dynamic range, ensuring every shot is captured with razor-sharp clarity and stunning color. The a7R V is a versatile tool for landscape photographers and you won’t be disappointed with everything this camera is capable of!
Specs:
- Price: $3,900 USD
- 61MP Full-Frame Exmor R BSI CMOS Sensor
- 8K 24p, 4K 60p, FHD 120p 10-Bit Video
- AI-Based Real-Time Tracking AF System
- 9.44m-Dot EVF with 120 fps Refresh Rate
- 10 fps Shooting with AF/AE Tracking
- 8-Stop 5-Axis Image Stabilization
- Dual CFexpress Type A/SD Card Slots
The Sony a7R V is a high-resolution mirrorless workhorse that caters to photographers who demand uncompromising performance in capturing landscape images. Its 61-megapixel full-frame sensor delivers incredible detail and dynamic range, ensuring every shot is captured with razor-sharp clarity and stunning color. The a7R V is a versatile tool for landscape photographers and you won’t be disappointed with everything this camera is capable of!
Nikon Z8
Specs:
The Nikon Z8 is a new, incredibly exciting, and powerful camera from Nikon all in a relatively compact and lightweight form factor. This camera is practically a Z9 but in a much smaller and easier-to-manage body. With a stunning and high-resolution 45.7-megapixel full-frame sensor you’ll be able to capture beautiful landscape images. The Z8 is one of the best cameras on the market right now and will get the job done when it comes to capturing the perfect shot!
Specs:
- Price: $4,000 USD
- 45.7MP Full-Frame FX-Format Stacked CMOS Sensor
- 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 a new, incredibly exciting, and powerful camera from Nikon all in a relatively compact and lightweight form factor. This camera is practically a Z9 but in a much smaller and easier-to-manage body. With a stunning and high-resolution 45.7-megapixel full-frame sensor you’ll be able to capture beautiful landscape images. The Z8 is one of the best cameras on the market right now and will get the job done when it comes to capturing the perfect shot!
Canon EOS R6 Mark II
Specs:
The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is a very capable and versatile mirrorless camera that combines speed, performance, and high-quality imaging. With its 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor, the R6 Mark II delivers excellent image quality across various shooting conditions. The R6 Mark II also offers impressive low-light capabilities and a great native dynamic range. With its well-rounded feature set, the EOS R6 Mark II is a reliable tool for landscape photographers and is available at a very reasonable price point.
Specs:
- Price: $2,500 USD
- 24.2MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor
- 4K60 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
The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is a very capable and versatile mirrorless camera that combines speed, performance, and high-quality imaging. With its 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor, the R6 Mark II delivers excellent image quality across various shooting conditions. The R6 Mark II also offers impressive low-light capabilities and a great native dynamic range. With its well-rounded feature set, the EOS R6 Mark II is a reliable tool for landscape photographers and is available at a very reasonable price point.
Nikon Z7 II
Specs:
The Nikon Z7 Mark II is a truly great full-frame mirrorless camera known for its high-resolution capabilities and robust performance. It features a 45.7-megapixel sensor that produces incredibly detailed images with excellent dynamic range. This camera is well-suited for landscape photographers who prioritize image quality and versatility. And all of this comes in a lightweight and compact package set at a reasonable price.
Specs:
- Price: $3,000 USD
- 45.7MP Full-Frame FX-Format BSI CMOS Sensor
- UHD 4K60 Video; N-Log & 10-Bit HDMI Out
- 493-Point Phase-Detect AF System
- 3.6m-Dot OLED EVF
- 5-Axis In-Body Vibration Reduction
- Dual Memory Card Slots
The Nikon Z7 Mark II is a truly great full-frame mirrorless camera known for its high-resolution capabilities and robust performance. It features a 45.7-megapixel sensor that produces incredibly detailed images with excellent dynamic range. This camera is well-suited for landscape photographers who prioritize image quality and versatility. And all of this comes in a lightweight and compact package set at a reasonable price.
Conclusion
And there you have it. These are our top picks here at BCJ. Of course, there are plenty of other exceptional cameras out there that can create excellent landscape images but for the sake of keeping this article short, these are the selections we’ve made. You really can’t go wrong with any of these incredible cameras!
Landscape photography is a journey of discovery, where every click of the shutter captures a fleeting moment in time. As you venture into the world armed with a high-quality full-frame mirrorless camera, you'll find yourself immersed in the beauty of nature. The camera becomes an extension of yourself and your artistic vision, helping you tell stories that celebrate the magnificence of our planet.
So grab your gear, explore the diversity of landscapes either in your own backyard or some far-off place, and let your passion for photography flourish in the great outdoors.
Until next time!
And there you have it. These are our top picks here at BCJ. Of course, there are plenty of other exceptional cameras out there that can create excellent landscape images but for the sake of keeping this article short, these are the selections we’ve made. You really can’t go wrong with any of these incredible cameras!
Landscape photography is a journey of discovery, where every click of the shutter captures a fleeting moment in time. As you venture into the world armed with a high-quality full-frame mirrorless camera, you'll find yourself immersed in the beauty of nature. The camera becomes an extension of yourself and your artistic vision, helping you tell stories that celebrate the magnificence of our planet.
So grab your gear, explore the diversity of landscapes either in your own backyard or some far-off place, and let your passion for photography flourish in the great outdoors.
Until next time!
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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.keenanhurshmedia.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.