Astrophotography is the art of capturing the beauty and wonder of the night sky. Whether you want to photograph the Milky Way, the moon, the planets, or even deep-sky objects like nebulae and galaxies, you need a camera that can handle the low-light conditions and long exposures required for this type of photography.
Digital cameras are a popular choice for astrophotographers, as they offer excellent image quality, versatility, and affordability. However, not all cameras are created equal when it comes to shooting the stars. You need to consider factors such as sensor size, resolution, ISO performance, dynamic range, battery life, and compatibility with lenses and accessories.
To help you find the best camera for your astro needs, I have selected four models that stand out from the crowd. I have based these choices on expert reviews, user feedback, and camera specifications. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the best digital cameras for astrophotography.
Canon EOS 6D Mark II
Arguably one of the most popular and trusted models used by photographers, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II is a full-frame DSLR that offers superb image quality and performance. It has a 26.2-megapixel sensor that captures more light and detail than an APS-C sensor, resulting in images with less noise and higher dynamic range, which is great for astrophotography. The 6D Mark II also has a DIGIC 7 processor that delivers fast and accurate autofocus, even in low-light situations.
The 6D Mark II is compatible with a vast selection of Canon lenses, including some of the best lenses for astrophotography on the market. For example, you can use the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM or the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM for capturing wide-angle views of the night sky with exceptional sharpness and contrast.
The 6D Mark II has a battery life of up to 1200 shots per charge, which is impressive for a full-frame DSLR. However, if you plan to shoot for longer periods, you may want to invest in a spare battery or an external power source.
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II is a powerful and versatile DSLR that is ideal for advanced and professional astrophotographers. It has a robust and weather-sealed body that can withstand harsh environments and conditions. It has a range of features and functions that can help you capture amazing astro images with ease and precision.
Sony A7R IV
The Sony A7R IV is a mirrorless camera that offers incredible image quality and performance for astrophotography. It has a 61-megapixel full-frame sensor that delivers stunning resolution and detail, as well as excellent noise performance and dynamic range. The A7R IV also has a BIONZ X processor that provides fast and accurate autofocus, even in low-light situations.
The A7R IV is compatible with a wide range of Sony lenses, including some of the best lenses for astrophotography on the market. For example, you can use the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM or the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM for capturing wide-angle views of the night sky with superb sharpness and contrast.
The A7R IV has a battery life of up to 670 shots per charge, which is decent for a mirrorless camera of this class. However, if you plan to shoot for longer periods, you may want to invest in a spare battery or an external power source.
The Sony A7R IV is a compact and lightweight mirrorless camera that is easy to carry around and use. It has a user-friendly interface and a range of creative modes and effects that can enhance your astro images. The A7R IV is an excellent choice for enthusiasts and professionals who want to capture breathtaking astro images with high resolution and detail.
Nikon D5600
One of my personal favourites, the Nikon D5600 is a great entry-level DSLR for astrophotography. It has a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor that delivers high-resolution images with low noise and good dynamic range. The D5600 also has a vari-angle touchscreen that makes it easy to compose and review your shots from different angles, a feature that I absolutely love!
The D5600 is compatible with a wide range of Nikon lenses, including some fast prime lenses that are ideal for astrophotography. For example, you can use the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G or the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G for capturing wide-angle views of the night sky with sharp details and minimal distortion.
The D5600 has a battery life of up to 970 shots per charge, which is impressive for a DSLR of this class. However, if you plan to shoot for longer periods, you may want to invest in a spare battery or an external power source.
The Nikon D5600 is a lightweight and compact DSLR that is easy to carry around and use. It has a user-friendly interface and a range of creative modes and effects that can enhance your astro images. The D5600 is an excellent choice for beginners who want to learn the basics of astrophotography without breaking the bank.
Fujifilm X-T5
The Fujifilm X-T5 is a mirrorless camera that offers great image quality and performance for astrophotography. It has a 26.1-megapixel APS-C sensor that delivers high-resolution images with low noise and good dynamic range. The X-T5 also has an X-Processor 4 that provides fast and accurate autofocus, even in low-light situations.
The X-T5 has a tilting touchscreen that allows you to adjust the settings and focus with ease. It also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity that enables you to transfer your images to your smartphone or tablet or control your camera remotely using the Fujifilm Camera Remote app.
The X-T5 is compatible with a wide range of Fujifilm lenses, including some fast prime lenses that are ideal for astrophotography. For example, you can use the Fujinon XF 16mm f/1.4 R WR or the Fujinon XF 23mm f/1.4 R for capturing wide-angle views of the night sky with sharp details and minimal distortion. Alternatively, you can use the Fujinon XF 55-200mm f/3.5-4.8 R LM OIS or the Fujinon XF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR for more zoom range and versatility.
The X-T5 has a battery life of up to 600 shots per charge, which is good for a mirrorless camera of this class. However, if you plan to shoot for longer periods, you may want to invest in a spare battery or an external power source. The X-T5 also has a built-in intervalometer that lets you create stunning time-lapse videos of the night sky without the need for an external remote control.
The Fujifilm X-T5 is a stylish and retro-looking mirrorless camera that is fun to use and easy to operate. It has a range of features and functions that can help you capture amazing astro images with ease and precision.
Astrophotography is a rewarding and fascinating hobby that can open your eyes to the wonders of the universe. However, you need a camera that can cope with the challenges of shooting in the dark and capturing the faint light of the stars. Hopefully, this information has helped you find the best DSLR camera for your astro needs, or at least given you some ideas on what to look for.
It is important to mention that standard digital cameras have an infrared filter covering the sensor. This reduces the amount of light hitting the sensor, particularly from the hydrogen alpha transmission line (red). If your primary focus is to capture nebulae, I would recommend investing in a dedicated deep-sky astrophotography camera from ZWO or QHY or modifying your digital camera by removing the infrared filter.
Remember, the best camera is the one that suits your budget, skill level, and personal preferences. Clear skies!