These photography tips will help you guide your couples in your next portrait photoshoot. Whether you’re doing poses for wedding photography, engagement pictures, or a couple’s photoshoot for friends, you’ll help them express their love.

45 Best Couple Poses for Portrait Photography

You can give your couple these posing instructions throughout their photoshoot. Feel free to show them reference pictures to help them recreate these poses.

Not every pose works for every couple, and that’s okay. Be open to experimenting with different poses and adjusting the ones on our list. The more poses you try, the more successful your photoshoot will be!

1. Go for a Walk and Hold Hands

This can be done at any point during your photoshoot. Although the classic hand-holding pose is a bit cliché, it never gets old.
Ask the couple to walk in front of you to make your photos more candid. They should have a specific destination, so you know how far to walk.

As the couple walks, they might talk, laugh, or point to something around them. This is the perfect time to shoot spontaneous, authentic photos of couples.

2. Point at Something

The couple should point at something interesting together. You can photograph them up close or create a wide shot where you can see what they’re pointing at.

3. Balance on Something

This probably sounds like one of the worst couple poses ever, but bear with me! Balancing on something with a partner symbolizes strength and trust.

Of course, the couple shouldn’t balance on something that could easily break. They can stand on a side wall, log, or anything that looks safe and stable. You can take full-body shots or focus on their legs.

4. Stretch Out an Arm

Travel photographer Murad Osmann has popularized this portrait pose. It’s often used in smartphone photography, but you can easily recreate it in your professional couple’s photography.

Shooting in a picturesque location is a good idea for a pose like this. Use a small aperture to ensure that the background remains sharp. You can also use a wide-angle lens to create a comfortable distance between the couple and yourself.

5. Twirl

To make simple couple poses exciting, add movement to your shots. One of your models wearing a long, flowy dress would look fantastic. The model can throw a part of the dress in the air or twirl. Use a fast shutter speed to capture everything sharply.

But a long dress is not necessary. You can still freeze interesting movements in this couple pose.

6. Dance Like No One Is Watching

Many people find dancing awkward, especially when a camera is pointed at them. This is exactly why you should ask the couple to dance! The awkwardness will inevitably make them laugh. This helps them loosen up, which might lead to more joyful couple portraits.

7. Do Something Silly

Ask the couple to do something silly, like make the ugliest faces imaginable. This will likely make them laugh, which is when you can start taking exciting portraits.

The point of this pose is to make your models have fun and laugh. You can also tell them a bad joke, share a funny personal story, or make them do something awkward on purpose.

8. Get Lost in an Activity

One of the easiest ways to take candid couple portraits is to photograph your models when they’re busy. Allow the couple to do something that they both love during your couple’s photoshoot.

This can be skating, walking, eating ice cream, singing, or anything else they genuinely enjoy. While the couple is lost in their world, you’ll get to capture all kinds of cute poses for couples.

You can also focus away from them. Focus on something that they both own or like. This can be a pet, a cup of coffee, or anything that helps define their relationship.

9. Pick Each Other Up

Ask the couple to take turns picking each other up. It’s fun to make your models laugh and be playful in front of the camera!

Black-and-white shots are very common in portrait photography. It gets rid of distracting colors and emphasizes emotions.

Shooting in black-and-white during close-ups can intensify the romantic atmosphere in your images. You can also convert your color photos to black-and-white later.

10. Piggyback Ride

The couple can take turns carrying each other on their backs. Piggyback rides might be childish, but they’re a fantastic way to loosen up and have fun. If you notice that the couple feels awkward, start with this pose to relax them.

A piggyback ride pose will also make the couple laugh and feel at ease in front of your camera.

11. Sit on Shoulders

This is a fun pose that inevitably makes the couple laugh. Ensure it’s safe and comfortable for the couple to do this. Shoot vertically to get proper full-body couple portraits. Take a few steps away from the couple before they try this pose so your camera doesn’t miss a moment.

12. Hold Hands With a Look

Have the couple hold hands and look at each other. This simple but powerful pose can show a deep connection.

You can also have the couple look outward in the same direction while holding hands. They’ll look like a powerful duo in your photos. Looking in one direction symbolizes strong values.

13. Gently Hold the Other’s Face

You can capture a tender moment by asking the couple to hold or caress each other’s faces. They can gently caress each other’s cheeks or faces with one or both hands. Ask them to look into each other’s eyes while they do this.

This is a great way to create intimacy in your photos. But it’s best to only do this pose after the couple feels comfortable. If you start with this, they might feel a bit awkward.

14. Lean on the Other Person

This is a simple but effective couple pose. It is easy to do as a stand-alone pose or during events.

One of your models can lean on the other’s shoulder. You can take photos behind them to show what they’re looking at. Their view can be something like a fireworks show or anything that tells a story about the couple’s relationship.

15. Touch Noses or Foreheads

The traditional Māori greeting is pressing your nose against someone else’s. You can incorporate this peaceful greeting into your couple’s photoshoot.

Your models can touch noses. Their foreheads can also touch to create more intimacy. Take close-up shots of them as they do this. And if they laugh while they do this, you’ll get even better shots!

16. Lean In at Sunset

This is one of the most popular couple poses incorporating the previous tips. The couple should lean toward each other until their foreheads touch. They can even press their noses together.

The background should be a sunset or a bright source of light. Shoot against the light, ensuring the couple stands right above it. This creates a beautiful haze.

You can create a silhouette by having the couple stand directly in front of the light. This covers the sun and creates interesting dark shadows. (See the end of the article for an example.)

17. Hug From Behind

There are different ways to hug a person. Instead of hugging each other directly, the couple can try a hug from behind.

This allows you to photograph both of their faces at once. Because their faces are so close, you can take romantic close-up photos. You can also have them close their eyes for a bigger emotional impact. This is also a good opportunity to capture fun and joyful couple photos.

18. Kiss a Hand

Kissing someone’s hand has always symbolized respect, love, and admiration. For this reason, it’s a good pose to use often during a couple’s photoshoot.

Combining it with other poses can make your couple’s photos look even more unique. For example, the couple can kiss each other’s hands while they walk. Or, one can kiss the other’s hand while they hug them from behind.

19. Kiss the Forehead

A forehead kiss is another subtle but sweet gesture for close-up portrait photography. The couple can be standing, sitting, or even lying down. With this couple pose, you can get very creative.

20. Kiss a Cheek

Cheek kisses are a classic pose in couple photography. If your models don’t want to kiss in your presence, cheek kisses are the next best thing. It’s a sweet gesture ideal for close-up photography.

21. Kiss Under an Umbrella

Photoshoots in the rain tend to be the most romantic. But having special rain equipment, like a camera cover or sleeve, is a good idea.

For unique couple photos, use a transparent umbrella. Shoot directly through the umbrella to create a soft and hazy effect. You can also cover part of your lens with the umbrella to create a beautiful blurred foreground.

22. Kiss With a Leg Lifted

This is a popular couple pose in the kissing category. One person can lift their leg behind them while their partner kisses them. This might sound simple, but it adds a huge difference in couple photos and makes them more interesting.

Alternatively, one person can dip their partner and lift their leg while they kiss. This can add a bit more drama and dynamism to the image composition.

23. Kiss in a Cozy Place

You can easily create many couple poses in cozy spaces on location or at home. You can have a couple’s photoshoot in a fun place, like on an amusement park ride or in a cozy room at home.

Your goal is to find a location that relaxes both of them. Ask them to kiss, hug, or hold hands.

24. Sit on Steps Together

Ask the couple to sit on a set of stairs or steps together. Steps can look just as beautiful as chairs in couple photos. This pose lets you showcase the couple’s outfits in all their glory. It lets the couple rest, chat, and pose more comfortably.

25. Feed Each Other

This might sound like another weird idea, but it’s a great pose for candid couple photography. This is easiest to do in cafes, malls, or around food trucks, where you can find a variety of treats.

One of the models should feed the other. Ensure the food isn’t something that would result in awkward pictures, like pasta! For example, you can try different fruits, like grapes, cherries, or berries.

26. Have a Conversation

You can find many romantic outdoor locations for this couple pose. Or, if you have some extra time on your hands, make a DIY studio. There’s no limit to what you can do with simple props.

You can build a tent where the couple can talk. For lighting, you can use fairy lights and a lamp. Fairy lights create the perfect romantic atmosphere for a photoshoot.

Ask your models to interact with their surroundings, talk to each other, and ignore the camera. This gives you lots of opportunities to take spontaneous couple photos.

27. Whisper Something

Here’s another cute photo pose for couples. Ask the couple to share jokes, say something silly, or whisper gibberish into their partner’s ear. Then, shoot photos of them as they do this.

You’re guaranteed to get a lot of unexpected reactions, so make sure you shoot in burst mode. This continuous shooting lets you take multiple photos sequentially by holding your shutter down.

28. Snuggle Under a Cute Blanket

This is one of the most popular couple poses for autumn or winter photoshoots of couples. The couple can lean on each other while they snuggle under a blanket.

Make sure the blanket complements their outfits and isn’t too vibrant. It should just be a prop that adds coziness to your photos.

29. Lie Together Outside

Lying together in an open space gives a sense of total relaxation. Even one person lying in the grass promotes a relaxed, care-free feeling. But when it’s a couple lying together, you get the impression they are totally relaxed and care-free with each other. 

Find a nice open space like a park or meadow. The more greenery and flowers the better. 

30. Lying Head to Head

This is a great couples pose if you can get an overhead angle. You might need a stepladder, but once you’re up there, you’ll be able to capture gorgeous images of the couple lying with their heads together.

The couple have to lie in opposite directions, so their heads can come together ear-to-ear without space in between. If they lie facing the same way, there is too much separation because of their shoulders. 

31. Human Pillow

Have the couple lie on the ground at a right angle to one another. One person then uses the other’s belly or torso as a pillow, leaning their head back. Together, they should make a T shape. 

This is a casual, carefree pose for casual, carefree couples.

32. Cheek to Cheek

Detailed photos can say a lot more about a relationship than you think. This easy couple pose helps you take beautiful close-ups of the couple’s eyes. All they have to do is lie very close to each other.

Get in close with a zoom lens and capture both of your couple’s eyes. This is a great way to emphasize their similarities and differences.

33. Snuggle Up Under the Covers

The bed is a very important place for many couples. It’s often a very intimate place. And while you can go down the saucy route, you can start by shooting couple portraits that depict the comforting side of the bed. 

A couples’ bed is a safe space where both individuals feel secure and protected. It’s a place of rest, safety, and comfort. That’s what many couples look for in a relationship, making this type of couple pose a good representation of a strong, loving relationship. 

34. Turn Up the Heat in the Bedroom

More confident couples might like to try more saucy shots in the bedroom. It can even improve confidence and intimacy in shier couples.

Don’t push things too far at first. Let the couple ease into the scene, taking it slow and steady. You also don’t need to be too explicit with the pose. The aim should be intimacy and connection, not heavy-duty lust. 

You can see more boudoir poses here if that’s your thing. 

35. Take the Knee and Propose

This is a classic couples pose, and one you definitely need in your repertoire. The key is getting the angles right, so you can see the person proposing is on one key.

You also want to the facial expression of the person being proposed to. It probably won’t be the true moment of proposal in your photoshoot, but the expression is still important. 

Pick a nice location for this type of shot. You can do close shots with a tight composition around te couple. But it’s nice to include some of the environment because proposal locations are usually hold emotional significance for the couple. 

36. Smaller behind Taller

With many couples, there is a big difference in height. One way to solve this problem is to have the taller person sitting down, and the other person standing behind them. This either gives you more equal heights or a role reversal, where the smaller person stands higher than the taller.

Have the stander embrace their partner from behind, holding their shoulders or hugging them around the neck. This will add more intimacy and warmed. 

37. Looking Away into the Distance

This is a must-have in your couple poses catalog, especially if you’re shooting in a scenic location. 

The couple needs to sit together and look away into the distance, admiring a sunset or spectacular view. Position yourself behind them to capture a rear-view shot. 

This makes the image feel more private and personal, as if you’re witnessing a candid, romantic moment between the two people. It also inspires hope in the relationship as they look into the future together.

38. Walking away hand in hand

 A classic romantic image, the in-love couple walking away hand in hand. You need a scenic spot for this shot, as you want to include a lot of the surrounding environment. A beach, a meadow, or a forest path are all great locations. 

Try and get down for a slightly lower angle. This makes the couple look bigger against their scenic backdrop, making them standout even more in the scene. 

39. Holding Hands Close-up

Holding hands is a simple yet effective symbol of intimacy. That’s why you can use it as the main focus of your couples portraits. 

A close-up of two hands being held is easy to achieve, and you can add some bokeh for an artistic finish. And it’s a great place to start with camera-shy couples. 

40. Sitting on a Beanbag

Beanbags are more playful than a sofa or chair. And even big beanbags are quite small. That means the couple needs to snuggle up together just to say on it.

This makes them embrace in a protective and caring way, as they stop the other from falling off. And it the risk of falling off adds a sense of fun and unpredictability, giving you more candid portraits. 

41. Classic Double Portrait

A classic double portrait of the couple is simple yet classy. It’s ideal for couples who don’t want to do anything too cheesy or romantic. 

You can keep them simple and have the couple posing in a nice location. Or you can make the portraits more stylized, making them edgy or humorous. Use the couple’s style to guide your creative choices. 

42. One Towards, One Away

This is a variation of a classic hug pose in which one person looks away and another looks at the camera. A cheeky smile or a loving look from the person looking at the camera adds some warmth to the image.

This type of image makes you feel like you’re seeing a private moment between the two people. With one person looking at the camera, it’s like they have broken the fourth wall. It’s a technique similar to that seen in programs like Fleabag. 

43. Covering the Eyes

You can have one partner covering the eyes of the other, or they can both cover each other’s eyes. 

Covering the other person’s eyes shows a level of trust. It’s a game we play when we’re about to reveal a surprise, which adds a sense of anticipation. It also makes the couple feel vulnerable, allowing you to capture more natural reactions. 

44. Upside Down Kiss

This is best done with one person lying on the ground facing up. Otherwise, you would have to suspend someone upside down in the air, like in the Spiderman movie. 

It’s an interesting twist on a classic couple’s kiss image. It’s best to do it in a scenic location like a garden, park, or beach. 

45. Include the Pets

Couples adore their pets, which is why it’s such a great idea to include them in your couple poses. Whether it’s a cat, dog, or tortoise, they will add something special to the images.

You can shoot the portraits in the home, garden, or a public space like a park. 

Tips for a Successful Couple’s Photoshoot

Now that you have the 45 best poses for couples portraits let’s discuss some general tips you can use during the photoshoot.

Arrange Coordinating Outfits

What your subject wears influences their mindset. And you can tell whether they are comfortable from their pose and facial expression.

I always tell my models to wear something that makes them feel confident and comfortable. Tell them beforehand if you want your model to run, jump, or sit. This way, their choice of clothing lets them move freely.

Ask them to coordinate outfits to give a sense of connection. But this doesn’t mean they have to be dressed the same way!

Have the couple wear complementary colors and consider the fashion look they want. As you look through the pictures in our article, notice the couple’s complementary clothing.

I usually recommend that my clients avoid patterns, letters, drawings, or strong colors. These might distract from the picture’s most important element—their bond.

Make Adjustments Beforehand

Before you start a couple’s photoshoot, let your models know you’ll be directing them. Also, tell them if they need to adjust their hair or clothes. You want them to look lovely in the photos. And it’s your responsibility to make them look as great as possible.

Always pay attention to how they look. Look at them both on and away from your camera’s LCD screen. Get used to checking their hair and clothes before pressing the shutter. After a while, you’ll do it without realizing it.

They’ll appreciate how thorough you are. This also helps them relax, knowing they have one less thing to worry about.

My experience has taught me that long hair can get pretty unruly while shooting outdoors. I recommend bringing a comb, hair ties, and hairpins if your models need them.

Have Them Talk Romance

The great thing about working with couples is that they can interact with each other. They help each other fall into natural poses and situations.

This helps them relax and not feel as awkward as a single model might feel in front of the camera. They both know what makes the other smile or laugh. Use this to your benefit.

You still need to help them by setting the right mood and interacting with them. I like to ask my models how they met, what they like to do together, and what they like about each other.

I look for subjects that make them remember happy moments. This cements their bond, which shines through in the photographs. If they’re thinking about their love, it shines through in their mood and poses.

Use a Posing Guide

I like to separate my couple’s photography poses into categories for refernce. And I make sure to have two or three poses for each category in mind before the shoot. Here are some categories of couple poses I use:

• Walking
• Holding hands
• Standing poses
• Leaning on a wall
• Kissing
• Sitting
• Lying down

I start by giving the couple some suggestions from these basic pose ideas. I then let the couple interpret for themselves what the pose should look like. As they pose naturally, I capture the moments.

When taking portrait photographs, it’s important to be ready to adapt. If one pose doesn’t work, try another. Mix up the posing ideas and try different camera angles.

This applies to shooting any couple’s photography, from an engagement shoot to a casual photo session. Various poses keep your clients from becoming uncomfortable, bored, or frustrated.

Conclusion: Best Couple Poses

Use any of the couple poses in this article to inspire your photography. Remember to guide your couple poses with gentle instruction and let them be themselves.

I recommend telling them to walk, dance, or experiment with different movements. You can get really beautiful candid photos this way! Make them feel comfortable and create a nice environment. Their love will shine through for you to photograph!

Today, we will examine family photography in greater depth. We will discuss the most important posts to consider in these situations, provide inspiration for family photography ideas, and even examine some of the best gear available.

By the end of this article, you will have a wide range of ideas to try when photographing your own or other families. To learn more about each idea, click the links at the end of each section.

Understanding Family Photography

Family photography involves photographing a group of people. Therefore, you must ensure that every member is in focus and well exposed. Consider the lighting of the room and the highlights and shadows outside before composing your subjects.

Large groups will naturally position themselves in a suitable position for the camera. You may have to adjust people at either end of the photograph. Try putting some people low down in front and taller people at the back. Smaller groups are harder to compose and will need more direction.

This section will guide you through some key points to consider when shooting family photoshoots. These points are crucial to understanding how to photograph groups and will ensure you get the photo correct before the group disperses!

Focusing Group Shots

Taking large group photos with everyone in focus can be tricky. But with the right camera settings and setup, you can get sharp photos of the whole group.

Start by posing the group close together. If you need multiple rows, keep them as close as possible. Set the aperture to a high f-stop number like f/8 or f/11 for a wide depth of field that keeps everyone in focus.

Use single-point autofocus and focus on a face in the front third of the group. Then take the photo in burst mode to avoid closed eyes. With practice, you can take take large group photos with everyone in focus and save those group memories.

Composing Groups

Let’s look at some of the most important composition techniques for taking great family portraits. You should use the rule of thirds to place your subjects in a natural, eye-catching way. Also, think about framing your family using elements like doors, bridges or trees to highlight them as the main focus. Leave some negative space around the family to keep the image simple and distraction-free.

Look for leading lines like paths or walls to guide the viewer’s eye toward your subjects. Don’t be afraid to change your perspective – crouch down, shoot from above or move to the side for more dynamic compositions. Remember, you don’t have to include everything in the frame.

Feel free to break the “rules” when needed to capture a special moment or get creative. The goal is to create interesting, memorable family portraits. If you’d like to dive deeper into family portraits, we have a detailed guide that covers even more helpful tips and techniques.

Considering Outfits

Choosing the perfect outfits for your family photos can be a challenge. The key is to find clothing that is comfortable, flattering, and coordinates well with the rest of the family. Solid colors are a great choice as they keep the focus on the people in the photo rather than busy patterns.

Consider the location of your photoshoot when selecting outfits. If you’ll be outdoors, choose clothing that fits the season and environment. Textured clothing can add visual interest to your photos, while fitted clothing helps to flatter each family member’s figure.

Most importantly, select outfits that make everyone feel their best. When your family is comfortable and confident in what they’re wearing, it will show in the final photos. If you’d like to learn more about family photo outfits, we have a detailed guide that covers everything from color schemes to accessorizing.

Family Photography Ideas

Do you need help with positioning your subjects? Then, this next section is for you! It may be hard to think past the formal family photography approach. So, we have compiled lists of photographic tips and ideas to get you experimenting.

Each section will touch on different subjects, from just the children to the entire family. Inside each of these sections, there is a link to a detailed article. These articles show visual examples of each suggestion. So, if you want to try out new and exciting methods of family photography, read each article in detail.

Children

Photographing children can be a fun and rewarding experience. Let’s discuss some ideas to help you capture great shots. For toddlers, use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/250 s to freeze motion and shoot in burst mode. Get down to their eye level for more natural portraits. Keep the session moving and be flexible with your plans.

When photographing siblings, matching outfits can be cute, especially with twins or multiple siblings. Candid shots often work best, like siblings walking together or having a conversation. Childhood activities like reading a book together or having a playful pillow fight provide perfect opportunities for sibling photos.

Mommy and me photoshoots capture sweet moments between a mother and her children. Plan the photoshoot carefully, choosing a time when the kids are well-rested. Keep the photoshoot fun and be flexible, encouraging play and taking breaks when needed. Capture the everyday moments, not just the planned ones. If you’d like to learn more about children photos ideas, there are many helpful resources available here.

Family

Family photoshoots are a great way to create memories with your loved ones. You can use different styles and approaches, from formal portraits to candid events. Generational family photography is a fun way to show the different generations of your family.

Family photoshoots can be an exciting time to spend together. The added excitement of putting on nice clothes and setting up props can create memorable moments. Make sure to take behind-the-scenes shots, as the setup can often be a great time for candid photos.

If you’d like to learn more about family photo ideas, we have an in-depth article that dives deeper into each tip so you can create treasured photographs of your family.

Inspiration

A great way to gather more inspiration is to look at the work of professionals. It is helpful to try to recreate other photographers’ styles before you have found your signature style. This forces you to try different photographic techniques you may not usually try.

The examples we look through range from photographers who shoot on location to studio photographers. So, you will surely find one style you aspire to.

Blogs to Follow

Here are a range of fascinating family photography blogs to follow in 2024. These blogs showcase many styles, locations, and types of family photography.

Ana Brandt is a world-renowned family and newborn photographer. She creates timeless photos in her studio and outdoors. Keri Meyers is a master at getting the right shot for family photos in Seattle.

Jonathan Canlas is known for his Film Is Not Dead movement. Sarah Petty focuses on families, children, and seniors in her studio. Let The Kids has a never-ending reel of families, children, playfulness, and colors.

If you’d like to learn more about family photography blogs, read our full article for the links of each photographers blog.

Best Gear

Let’s now take a look at the best gear for family photography. The lens is the most important element to consider when shooting group portraits. Therefore, we have compiled a list of the best lenses. The list contains great options from all the big camera brands.

Make sure you read the full article to discover the best option for your camera brand of choice.

Lenses

The best lenses for family portraits capture every smile and chuckle, making those moments last forever. Our guide lists the top 10 lenses, including options for Canon, Nikon, Sony, and Fujifilm cameras.

The Canon RF 14-35mm f/4L IS USM is our top pick for its versatility and sharpness. It’s great for wide group shots and intimate portraits. The constant f/4 aperture and image stabilization help in low light.

Other standout lenses include the Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM for its wide aperture and exceptional clarity, and the Nikon Z 28-75mm f/2.8 for its versatile zoom range and fast autofocus. With the right lens for family portraits, you can celebrate your family through stunning photos.

Our Top 3 Lenses for Family Portraits

Canon RF 14-35mm F/4L IS USM

Canon RF 14-35mm F/4L IS USM

Canon EF 35mm F/1.4L II USM

Canon EF 35mm F/1.4L II USM

Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-75mm F/2.8

Nikon NIKKOR Z 28-75mm F/2.8

Today, we will give you a number of ideas to consider when conducting a family photoshoot. We will look at different styles and approaches you can take. We will also cover ways to take advantage of family events. By the end of this article, you will have plenty of ideas for your next family photoshoot.

Family Photoshoot Ideas

Family photoshoot ideas span from formal family photoshoots to candid events. Between these two extremes, there is a lot of room for experimentation. One point we will briefly cover is generational family photography. You can come up with fun ways to show the different generations of your family.

Family photoshoots can be a great way to spend some time together. The added excitement of putting on nice clothes and setting up props can make memorable moments. Make sure you take behind-the-scenes shots because the setup can often be a great time for candid shots.

We will now guide you through a range of different family photoshoots. Read the full article in each section if you want more ideas!

Family

Let’s take a look at some family portrait ideas you can make your own. You can group your subjects into triangles to create a strong composition that works for families of all sizes. You could also experiment with depth of field by placing family members at different distances from the camera to highlight certain people or family dynamics.

Don’t forget to include the family pets! Bring along their favorite treats and use burst mode to capture the perfect shot. Encourage interaction and play by having the family walk, picnic, or toss a ball around together.

Get creative with simple props like signs or seasonal items. Shoot during golden hour for soft, warm light that’s gorgeous in family photos. Lifestyle photography captures candid moments at home, like the family laughing and chatting together in their own environment.

Looking for more family portrait ideas? This article dives deeper into each tip so you can create treasured photographs of any family.

Lifestyle

Lifestyle photography captures real-life events and candid interactions. It’s somewhere between documentary photography and classic portraiture. To improve your lifestyle photography, give your clients clear directions on what you want, but let them decide how to get there.

Capture the in-between moments to show your clients’ true personalities. Focus on details that are important to the story you’re telling. And use your technical skills to read the scene and find the right camera settings, as things can move fast.

Lifestyle photography works well for travel, weddings, and even fashion shoots. The key is to capture images that reflect who your subjects really are, not just what they’re wearing or where they are. To learn more about capturing amazing lifestyle photography, we have a detailed guide that covers all the essentials.

Generational

Capturing photos of multiple generations is a heartwarming way to save memories of your loved ones. There are a few creative ideas you can use in your next family photoshoot.

The frame method involves each generation holding an empty frame, then editing the photos together to create a spiraling timeline effect. Holding hands is a simple yet powerful way to show the connection between generations.

Black and white photos give a timeless, elegant look to family portraits. You can also recreate old family photos to bring a wave of nostalgia. These generation photo ideas are a great way to connect family members across many decades while practicing your photography skills.

Beach

When planning family beach pictures, coordinate outfits instead of matching them. Choose a color palette like navy, white, and khaki for a nautical feel. Pastels and whites fit beach settings well, while dark colors can feel heavy and formal.

Avoid heavy patterns that distract from faces. Solid colors are a safer bet, and knits in light tones add nice texture. Clothing should be comfortable for walking, sitting, and playing in the sand.

Open shoes or sandals continue the casual beach vibe. If your family wants more ideas for beach photo outfits, our family beach pictures article can provide plenty of inspiration.

Vacation

Let’s now look at some vacation ideas. Find the best photo spots at your destination by asking local photographers, friends who have visited, or searching photography websites. Don’t overpack camera gear – bring a camera body, wide-angle lens, prime lens, tripod, and flash. Wake up early to avoid crowds and capture sunrise light or local life.

Try to make the most of available light, even harsh midday sun or low light. Avoid cliche vacation photos by trying creative techniques like jumping shots, forced perspective, or silhouettes. Balance portraits and landscapes to tell the whole story of your trip.

Include your family in photos and capture candid moments. Photograph the local culture through food, using natural light or a flash. Get out at night to take long exposures or do light painting. Review your images daily to find the best shots from your vacation photography.

Read our dedicated article to learn more about vacation photography.

Picnic

Picnic photoshoots are a fun and creative way to capture memories with family and friends. When planning your picnic photoshoot, choose a scenic location like a forest, beach, or park. Pay attention to the background and avoid any distracting elements.

Shoot during the golden hour around sunrise or sunset for soft, flattering light. Help your models choose comfortable outfits that fit the surroundings. Add props like a picnic basket, blanket, and decorations to enhance your images.

Picnic photoshoots work well for family photos, engagement sessions, and group shots. Capture close-up details of the food, decorations, and surroundings to help tell the story. Most importantly, have fun and be spontaneous – the best pictures often come from unplanned moments. For more tips on capturing the perfect picnic photoshoot, check out our in-depth guide.

Birthday Party

Birthday party photography can be challenging, but it’s a great time to capture memorable shots. Get detail photos of the cake, presents, and decorations to set the atmosphere. Candid shots of kids laughing and playing help build a narrative.

Don’t miss traditional moments like blowing out candles, hitting the piñata, or opening gifts. Use flash to fill in shadows or brighten dark rooms, but diffuse it to avoid harsh light. Change perspectives by getting low for kids’ eye level or shooting from above.

Take lots of photos to ensure you get a few good ones of each moment. Capture guests too, especially family members. Birthday party photography is rewarding when you learn these birthday party photography tips to tell the story of the special day.

Graduation

Graduation photography captures one of life’s most important milestones. To take great graduation photos, you need the right camera and lens. A professional camera will let you take sharp photos in any lighting situation.

Use a wide aperture to blur the background and make your subject stand out. Take photos of the venue beforehand to find the best angles and lighting. Use burst mode to catch candid moments throughout the ceremony.

After the ceremony, take portraits of the graduate with friends and family in a well-lit outdoor location. Adjust your camera settings, like using a high ISO, to get the best results indoors. For more tips to improve your graduation photography you can read our our in-depth guide.

Christmas

The holidays are a great time to take memorable family photos. Capture candid moments of your loved ones as they open gifts, bake cookies, or decorate the tree. These heartwarming shots will be cherished for years to come.

You don’t need a professional studio to take great Christmas photos. Set up a simple DIY studio by having your subject sit in front of a Christmas tree or string lights. Use a lamp or window light to create a warm atmosphere.

Don’t forget to document the festive spirit around your neighborhood too. Head outside and photograph the beautiful decorations, lights, and displays that catch your eye. With a little creativity, you can capture the magic of the season in your own unique way. Check out our in-depth guide to learn more about christmas photography.

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to capture special moments with your camera. Plan your photography shoot in advance by deciding on equipment, setting up scenes, and considering post-processing. A zoom lens like a 24-105mm is ideal for capturing wide-angle shots and close-ups of food.

When posing family members for group photos, create interest by staggering people throughout the frame at different heights. Take your time and shoot multiple frames to ensure everyone looks their best. You can use a timer to include yourself in some photos too.

If you’re shooting with available light, set your camera to handle the challenges of low light. Shoot in Shutter Priority or Manual mode with a low F-stop number and the highest ISO your camera can handle without excessive noise. A Speedlite can help fill in ambient light, but avoid using the pop-up flash.

Focus on details like autumnal decor and food close-ups, and try shooting from different angles and focal lengths. Candid shots and behind-the-scenes moments can add variety to your collection. Read our dedicated article for more thanksgiving photography tips.

Funeral

Funeral photography requires extra care and respect. Talk to the family beforehand to understand their wishes and make them feel comfortable. Visit the venue early to get familiar with the lighting and setup.

During the funeral, wear dark clothes and blend in. Use a silent shutter and avoid flash photography. Focus on capturing special moments and details that celebrate the person’s life.

Never post the photos on social media without permission. If you’d like to learn more about  funeral photography, our article has helpful tips for taking meaningful and respectful photos.

To make your life easier, we have examined a range of situations and age ranges to give you the best tips and ideas for these photoshoots! These tips range from camera settings to how to make your subjects feel more comfortable in front of the camera, achieving better photos.

Children Photoshoot Ideas

Child photo ideas span from formal group photos to candid photos of them playing. You will never regret taking photos of your children as these are memories you can hang on to forever. So, experimenting with different styles of shoots will never be a waste of time.

Photographing your children is a great way to spend time together. If you’re both having a good time, you can tell from the images!

Each section we cover will give you ideas on shooting different age ranges or situations. If you want more information about a particular section, read our in-depth articles!

Toddler

Toddler photography can be challenging, but capturing their adorable antics is worth the effort. Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/250 s to freeze motion, and shoot in burst mode to increase your chances of getting a great shot. Continuous autofocus will help keep your subject sharp as they move around.

Get down to the toddler’s eye level for more intimate portraits with less distortion. Keep the session moving to maintain their short attention span, and be flexible with your plans. Let the toddler take the lead and brainstorm ways to make their activities more photogenic.

Enlisting help to elicit smiles and using props like noise-makers or bubbles can make the session more fun for everyone. If you’d like to learn more about toddler photography, there are many helpful resources available.

Siblings

Sibling photography captures the unique bond between brothers and sisters. Matching outfits can maximize cuteness, especially with twins or multiple siblings. Including the family pet can also make for a cherished photo.

Candid shots often work best, like siblings walking together or having a conversation. Taking photos from behind or above can help capture natural moments. Windows also make great backdrops for heartfelt sibling portraits.

Childhood activities provide perfect opportunities for sibling photos. Have them read a book together, whisper secrets, or even engage in a playful pillow fight. The holidays are another joyful time to photograph siblings in festive attire. For more sibling photo ideas, explore poses and tips to bring out their unique relationship.

Sisters

Capturing the special bond between sisters is a beautiful way to celebrate their relationship. A simple approach, like having them sit together, can produce heartwarming results for sisters of all ages. Matching outfits or a yin and yang color scheme are classic ideas that look adorable on young children and stylish on older sisters.

Including a beloved family pet or capturing a bird’s eye view of the sisters lying together can add a playful touch to the photoshoot. Encourage them to whisper secrets or walk hand in hand for a touching moment. Embracing their heritage with traditional costumes is another meaningful way to honor their roots.

Laughter is often what keeps sisters together through life’s ups and downs, so create a relaxed environment where they can share the joy of each other’s company. If you’d like to explore more sister photoshoot ideas, there are plenty of creative options to capture the magic of this unbreakable bond.

Mom and Me

Mommy and me photoshoots capture sweet moments between a mother and her children. These sessions can range from themed fantasy shoots to simple lifestyle images. The best mommy and me pictures have genuine interactions and smiles.

To get the best results, plan the photoshoot carefully. Choose a time when the kids are well-rested and bring along some of their favorite toys. Use simple lighting setups that flatter mom while keeping the focus on the interactions.

Most importantly, keep the photoshoot fun and be flexible. Encourage play, take breaks when needed, and don’t force poses. Capture the everyday moments, not just the planned ones. You can find more tips for great mommy and me photoshoot sessions to create beautiful, genuine images of a mother’s love.

Mother and Daughter

A mother daughter photoshoot is a great way to capture the special bond between a mother and her daughter. Props like balloons, styled seating, and signs can add a fun element to the session. Choosing a theme, such as a spa day or picnic, can make the photoshoot unique and give young children something to do.

Wardrobe is another important factor to consider. Discuss options with your clients beforehand to ensure the look they want, whether it’s elegant, casual, or themed. Offering a unique product like matching lockets or keychains can make the experience even more special.

To learn more about mother daughter photoshoot ideas and tips, this in-depth article covers everything from location selection to referral programs that can help grow your photography skills.

Teenage

Let’s now look at some ideas for teen portraits. Don’t force your teen to pose in ways that make them uncomfortable. Teens often know their best angles thanks to social media. Let them pose naturally without much direction to capture genuine expressions. It’s okay if they don’t smile – eventually you can get a few smiles by connecting with them.

Keep teens engaged by having them constantly move around. Ask them to walk, joke with others, or play. Vary the poses and locations to maintain momentum and prevent boredom. Give them space from parents or family to help them feel relaxed.

Talk to the teen during the session about their interests. This loosens nerves and draws out real expressions. Use props related to their hobbies, like sports gear or musical instruments, to make posing easier. Most importantly, let the teen have a say in the photoshoot, such as choosing outfits or locations. Giving them some control leads to more excitement and participation. For more teenager photoshoot ideas, check out our in-depth article.

Prom

Prom is a special event in a teen’s life, and capturing the perfect photos is important. Use conversation and breaks to keep poses natural and relaxed. Zoom in on the details like wardrobe, shoes, and flowers to tell the full story of their prom experience.

Photograph each person individually to personalize the shoot. Schedule enough time to cater to everyone, including breaks and wardrobe adjustments. Avoid using flash to keep outfits looking natural, and try different poses for individuals, couples, and groups.

Keep the session quick to avoid boredom, and use props like streamers or signs to make it fun. Give parents time to document the event as well. Most importantly, ask the teens if they want anything special before wrapping up. To learn more about prom picture ideas, check out this helpful article.

How to Take Newborn Photos

There is plenty you can do to give yourself the best chance of success. Having a good plan, the right props and equipment, and staying flexible are the key. Understanding the basics of photography will help, and then learning how to apply them to this specific type of photography will help you to unlock the magic of newborn photography.

How to Get Started as a Newborn Photographer

It doesn’t take much, but the right preparation will let you get the best out of your subjects. A few props, some clear idea, and a good grasp of technique will help you on you way.

Getting Started

Becoming a newborn photographer takes some preparation. First, decide if you’ll work in a studio or visit clients’ homes. Studios offer more control over lighting and props, while in-home sessions capture the family’s lifestyle.

You’ll need a few essentials like posing pillows, blankets, and a white noise machine. Get comfortable handling newborns and learn safe posing techniques. Always support the baby’s head and keep them warm.

Showcase your best work with print and album samples to encourage sales. And don’t forget a referral program to grow your business through word-of-mouth. With these tips for newborn photography, you’ll be well on your way to a rewarding career capturing precious memories for families.

Maternity Photos

Of course, you can make a start even before the baby arrives. Maternity photos are popular ways of getting some beautiful shots of the mum-to-be. Here are some tips for beautiful maternity photos:

Include family members like the spouse and siblings in the photos. This shows the whole family is excited about the newborn. Get detail shots of them kissing or holding the baby bump.

Use props that represent the parents’ personalities, like items related to their hobbies or interests. This makes the session more meaningful and personal. Also consider using gender-specific colors in the wardrobe, like blue for a boy or pink for a girl.

Photograph the baby’s nursery if the session is at the client’s home. Capture the parents-to-be in the nursery without posing for natural emotions and expressions. These detail shots can be very emotional and personal for them.

Our guide has many more ideas for maternity photography, so check it out.

Cute Ideas

Newborn photography captures precious early moments of a baby’s life. It’s about creating adorable images that parents can cherish forever.

If you’re looking for newborn photo ideas, try poses you can do at home without special equipment. Use natural light and include parents, siblings, and even pets. Wrap the baby in a blanket or capture tender moments like the mother’s embrace, the father’s arms, or the baby’s tiny hands and feet.

For studio newborn photos, play with props, colors, and themes. Wrap the baby in colorful blankets or put a matching hat on their head. Place them in a deep basket, make a cozy nest, or use a miniature bed. Create magical sets with seasonal backdrops, crowns, and animal costumes for prince and princess or woodland themes.

Newborn photo ideas are endless, so let your creativity shine. With the right poses, props, and themes, you’ll create newborn photos to treasure for a lifetime.

Newborn Poses

Capturing the innocence and beauty of a newborn baby is one of the most rewarding things a photographer can do. With a little practice, you can create stunning images using these ten best newborn poses.

Always prioritize safety when posing a newborn. Stick with simple poses like on the back, on the side, or on the tummy. Use props like blankets, pillows, and beanbags to support the baby and keep them comfortable.

Get creative with your camera angles and try shooting from above or the side. Capture close-up details of tiny hands and feet. Involve parents and siblings in the photos to showcase the family’s connection and joy. Newborn poses can be varied and adjusted to create a diverse portfolio of images that parents will love.

Twins

Photographing newborn twins can be challenging, but with the right preparation and techniques, you can capture precious moments. Start by communicating with the parents about their preferences for props, colors, and accessories. Ensure the photography area is clean, safe, and free of clutter.

Use a camera and lens suitable for portraits, such as a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a prime lens around 85mm. Natural light from a window is ideal for a soft, even look that won’t distress the babies. If using studio lights, opt for softboxes and a less intense flash.

When posing newborn twins, keep safety a top priority. Use soft blankets, non-abrasive materials, and avoid any props with sharp edges. Try different poses, such as having the twins lie together, in matching or differing outfits, or include family members for extra special photos. With patience and creativity, you can capture incredible newborn twin photos to treasure. You’ll find many more twin photoshoot ideas, in our in-depth guide.

Christmas Ideas

Christmas is a wonderful time to capture adorable photos of a newborn baby. There are many creative ways to incorporate the holiday spirit into your photo shoot. Using minimal props like a Santa hat or bow can add a festive touch while keeping the focus on your little one.

You can also involve siblings or parents in the photos to capture the love and bond of your family. Dressing the baby as a little angel or placing them in a sleigh are cute ideas. And don’t forget about the family pet – including them can add an extra level of cuteness!

If you’d like to learn more about newborn christmas photos, we have plenty of great resources available with even more adorable ideas and inspiration.

Milk Bath

Milk bath photography is a dreamy, minimalist portrait style. It is more often used for women, but can work well with babies too. It involves photographing a subject in a bathtub filled with a mixture of milk and water. The milky white liquid allows you to utilize negative space and draw focus to your model’s face and body.

To set up a milk bath photoshoot, you’ll need a bathtub, warm water, and whole milk or milk powder. Gradually add the milk to the water until you achieve the desired opacity. Use props like flowers, lace fabric, or simple accessories to enhance the ethereal look.

Of course, with a baby, you will need to take extra care, and pay particular attention to water temperature.

When shooting, place the bathtub near a large window for soft, natural light. Avoid standing directly above the model to prevent unflattering reflections. Focus on the details like hairstyles, poses, and props to create unique compositions. A milk bath photoshoot offers plenty of room for creativity and experimentation.

Cake Smash!

Cake smash photography is a fun way to celebrate your baby’s first birthday. To get the best photos, ditch the high chair and let your little one make a mess on a flat surface. Keep props simple, like a plain background with one or two items besides the cake.

Choose a color scheme that coordinates with an item like a headband or the cake frosting color. Avoid white frosting as it can easily overexpose in photos. Schedule the session when your baby is happy and you have good natural light, like near a large window.

Perfect your camera settings before bringing in the cake. Encourage shy babies by letting them taste the frosting first. Adjust your angles to get a variety of shots, from close-ups of frosting-covered toes to wider shots of the whole scene. With a little planning, you can capture adorable diy cake smash photos to treasure.

Smartphone Tips

Newborn photography doesn’t have to break the bank. You can capture precious memories of your little one using just your smartphone. The key is to keep the photos simple and the poses safe.

Use window light and white noise to create a calm environment for your baby. Gently adjust their arms and legs into a snuggly position, but never force them into a pose. Get creative with your composition by shooting from different angles and distances.

Editing apps like Lightroom or VSCO can help you perfect your images. Remove temporary flaws, reduce redness, and apply filters for a polished look. With these DIY newborn photography tips, you’ll be capturing sweet memories in no time.

Camera Settings

Knowing the best camera settings will help you capture better newborn photography photos. They should be sharp, with a soft, blurred background. Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/160 s for babies who are quiet, and 1/250 s or faster for active babies to freeze motion. A wide aperture like f/2.8 creates a creamy background, but a narrower f/4 is easier to keep the baby sharp.

Balance the exposure with the lowest ISO that allows for a fast shutter speed. Around ISO 3200 or lower is best for image quality. If the photo is too light or dark, adjust the ISO or use exposure compensation.

Mastering newborn photography camera settings is key to capturing the rapid changes of a baby’s first months. Learning manual mode offers the most control. But, aperture priority with auto ISO and a minimum shutter speed is simpler for beginners to learn.

Choosing the Best Gear for Newborn Photography

The gear you have isn’t the most important thing. But it does make a difference. A mirrorless camera is really handy, or a DSLR with live view. It is often easier to get the right angle while looking at a screen rather than through a viewfinder. With a mirrorless camera, the silent electronic shutter will also be a bonus. 

Camera

The best camera for newborn photography should have a mid-range resolution sensor, perform well in natural light, and have a quiet shutter. Look for cameras with at least 20 MP resolution. Higher megapixels can show too much detail in a newborn’s skin.

Autofocus should be reliable but a high burst rate isn’t necessary for newborns. However, if you plan to photograph toddlers too, look for cameras with faster burst speeds.

Cameras that have good high ISO performance are important for natural light photography. Lenses with wide apertures like f/1.8 or f/2.8 also help in low light. If you want to learn more about the best camera for newborn photography, we have a detailed guide.

Props

Newborn photography props add variety and interest to photos while drawing attention to the star of the show: the baby. Some of the best props are wraps, hats, headbands, and baskets. Wraps keep babies warm and comfortable, and can be used in many different poses. Hats and headbands are easy to switch out without waking the baby.

Baskets and wooden crates make great props for beginners. Simply place a blanket inside to keep the baby cozy, then shoot from above. Mom or dad’s hands can also be used to create a sweet, personal photo.

No matter which props you choose, always prioritize the baby’s safety and comfort. Make sure props are sturdy, and use a soft blanket between the prop and the baby’s skin. Newborn photography props are a great way to get creative while capturing precious memories.

Lenses

The best lenses for newborn photography offer sharpness, versatility, and low-light performance. Look for lenses with focal lengths between 24mm and 105mm. These allow you to capture close-up details and wider shots with the parents.

Lenses with wide apertures like f/2.8 or f/4 are ideal for low light. They also create a soft background that makes the baby the focus of the image. Image stabilization is another useful feature that will help you shoot sharp images without a tripod.

Our top pick is the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM. This versatile lens delivers exceptional sharpness and performance. To learn more about the best lenses for newborn photography, we have a detailed guide covering the top options from Canon, Nikon, Sony, and more.

Canon Lenses

When capturing the precious moments of a newborn, having the right lens is key. The best Canon lenses for newborn photography offer a mix of soft backgrounds, sharp details, and natural perspectives.

Our top pick, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM, has a wide f/1.4 aperture that creates dreamy, soft backgrounds. This helps to highlight the baby’s delicate features. It also offers great sharpness, especially when stopped down to f/2.8, ensuring every tiny detail is captured beautifully.

The 50mm focal length provides a natural perspective, avoiding distortion and allowing for intimate portraits without getting too close to the baby. This versatile prime lens is a great choice for newborn photography, offering professional-quality results at a reasonable price. To learn more about the best Canon lenses for newborn photography, check out our in-depth guide.

Nikon Lenses

If you’re a Nikon user, then we have some recommendations for the best lenses for newborn photography.

The Nikon Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S and Nikon AF-S 105mm f/1.4E ED are our top picks. The Z MC 105mm has a comfortable shooting distance and sharp images. The AF-S 105mm has stunning bokeh and is great in low light.

Other good options are the Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S for a natural perspective and the Nikon Z 85mm f/1.8 S for flattering portraits. The Nikon Z 24-120mm f/4 S and Nikon DX Z 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 VR are versatile zooms.

For Nikon DSLRs, the AF-S 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR is sharp with a constant f/2.8 aperture. The AF-S 35mm f/1.4G has a wide aperture for soft backgrounds. You’ll find more details about the best Nikon lenses for newborn photography, in our detailed guide.

Sony Lenses

When choosing Sony lenses for newborn photography, look for wide apertures to create soft backgrounds that highlight the baby. Focal lengths around 50mm provide a natural perspective without distortion. Image stabilization helps capture sharp details in low light.

Our top pick is the Sony E 50mm f/1.8 OSS for its f/1.8 aperture and sharp image quality. The Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN is a versatile zoom with a constant f/2.8 aperture. For intimate details, the Sony E 35mm f/1.8 OSS performs well.

Our selection of Sony lenses for newborn photography come in a variety of focal lengths and apertures to suit your style. With the right lens, you can capture the precious early moments of a newborn’s life with beautiful clarity and softness.

Flash

Choosing the right flashgun can be tricky. There are many advantages to using one, and some types of photography are almost impossible without a flashgun. Our top pick is the Godox V860III-S, a great all-rounder that packs TTL, HSS, and a rechargeable battery into a great-value package.

The Godox V860III-S is powerful enough for most situations with a guide number of 60. It has a quick-release mount, built-in modeling light, and a Li-ion battery pack good for 480 full-power flashes. The flash will zoom to accommodate lenses from 20mm to 200mm.

It has both a receiver and transmitter, so you can use it as the trigger in a multi-flash setup or as a slave. This gives great flexibility in how you deploy the flash. If you’d like to learn more about flashguns, we have an in-depth article that covers everything you need to know.

Studio Flash

There are three basic types of photography lighting equipment: continuous lights, strobes, and modifiers. Continuous lights are always on and produce a soft light. Strobes are flashes that can be manual or TTL.

Modifiers change the direction, intensity, or quality of light. Each type has benefits and drawbacks. It’s important to understand how each one works before buying.

If you want to learn more about types of photography lighting equipment, we have a detailed guide that covers everything you need to know. This will help you make an informed decision and start taking amazing photos!

Some Inspiration for Your Newborn Photography

Worrying about lack of ideas can be a real problem for any kind of photography. And newborn photography is no different. So we’ve looked into some inspirational photographers to get you on the right path.

Famous Photographers

Newborn photography is a challenging but rewarding field. The best baby photographers capture the unique personalities of their tiny subjects with creative setups and props. They work quickly and flexibly to get the perfect shot before the baby gets hungry or tired.

From Anne Geddes’ iconic photos of babies in whimsical costumes to Shannon Leigh’s fairy tale-inspired setups, these 10 famous newborn photographers are sure to inspire you. Each has their own distinct style, but all share a passion for preserving those fleeting moments of early childhood.

Whether you’re a professional photographer or simply looking for ideas for your own baby’s photoshoot, these talented artists are worth checking out. For more in-depth information on famous newborn photographers, be sure to explore their individual portfolios and websites.

But kids? Kids are naturally curious and expressive. They don’t yet have creativity-squashing rules in their minds. So, teaching photography to kids is less about giving them rules and more about allowing their creativity to blossom.

You might want to create formal photography classes for kids or teach your child the joys of photography. Either way, if you teach a child photography, their curiosity and creativity will skyrocket!

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Photography for Kids: 15 Valuable Lessons

Here are 15 valuable photography lessons for kids. You don’t have to teach them all these lessons at once. You can bookmark this post and choose a subject to cover whenever you take pictures with them.

1. Choosing a Subject

A photo’s subject is one of photography’s most basic and essential details. Most kids understand, even innately, that a photo should have an object or person in it.

Talk to them about what’s in the photograph and what is most important in the photo. Introduce the term “subject” and ask them to think of other ways to photograph that same subject.

2. How to Compose a Photo

By default, most kids tend to center everything in the photo. Some kids place subjects so far off the edge of the image that the object or person is cut off entirely!

Start teaching kids composition by introducing the idea of placing subjects elsewhere in the photo. You can introduce this idea by taking your own photos of the same subject with a different composition.

Another popular photography exercise for kids is to give them a picture frame with no glass or back. Ask them to “frame” objects around the house in different ways. This photography exercise doesn’t even need a camera!

3. How to Hold a Camera

Holding a camera isn’t just about grabbing it in whatever way is comfortable. A proper grip helps reduce camera shake while allowing easy access to the rest of the camera’s controls.

Teach kids to wrap their bottom three fingers around the camera grip. Then, have them place their index finger on the shutter button and their thumb at the back. With larger cameras, their left hand should go under the lens to help support that weight.

4. How to Focus

When you first give a child a camera, they will use the auto area autofocus (AF) mode. As kids build a basic grasp of photography, show them single-point AF mode (if their camera has one). They can select where the camera focuses using the arrow keys on the back of the camera.

For an exercise, place two objects on a table, one close to the camera and one farther away. Have them move the focal point over one, then the other, refocusing each time. This is a great way to introduce how focus varies based on distance.

5. Camera Modes and Settings

Before teaching a child about exposure, explain the camera modes for different types of photography. Show them Sports mode for action shots and Macro mode for close-ups.

Show them how to change the camera mode and what each mode is best for. This will help build a foundation for learning about exposure.

Exposure

Kids with a firm grasp of basic photography concepts can start to learn about exposure. Don’t dive straight into Manual mode. This is overwhelming, even for adults. Teach one aspect of exposure at a time. Use simple language and lots of practice.

Shutter Speed

A visual aid may help teach kids shutter speed. Show a YouTube video of a camera shutter at work. Explain how the shutter is a door that opens to take the picture, and anything that moves while that door is open will blur.

Find a moving object, like the family dog or a fan. To show this, take a photo with a fast and a slow shutter speed. Encourage practice using shutter priority mode.

Aperture

Visuals are helpful here, too. Go outside on or before a rainy day with a narrow glass and a wide bucket. Ask them which one they think will collect more rain. Then, wait and see if they’re right. Explain that, like a wider bucket gathers more water, a wider aperture gathers more light.

You can then better introduce the concept of depth of field. Ask them to take a photo at a wide aperture and then the same photo at a narrow aperture. Compare how the background in the two images looks.

6. Experimenting With a Camera

Most photographers—at any age—learn through experimenting. And with digital or instant photography, there are few consequences for kids trying something one way and then another.

Kids who learn by experimenting often remember information better than verbal instruction alone. And with digital cameras, no film is wasted. You can delete an image with a few clicks. So, encourage kids to try multiple ways to take a photo.

Giving them an object to photograph is a great exercise to encourage kids to explore with their cameras. Ask them to take ten different photos of that object.

If they get stuck, help them brainstorm other options. These might be changing the point of view, moving the object to a new location, or adjusting the camera settings.

7. Changing Perspective

Photography is a way of seeing. A camera helps young photographers show others their unique viewpoints. So, offer tips on perspective when teaching photography to kids. This is especially helpful if they only photograph everything at eye level.

Encourage them to shoot while lying on the ground or standing on tiptoes. Suggest they take a picture of their subject from another angle, like above or below.

8. Zooming In

Changing camera angles isn’t the only way to adjust perspective. Getting closer or farther away from the subject is another way to change perspective.

So, teach your child to use the camera’s zoom to make objects closer or farther away. Then, ensure kids know they can zoom with their feet, too!

While teaching how to zoom, encourage them to explore macro photography. You can show them how to turn on a camera’s macro mode.

A fun exercise in macro photography is to ask them to take pictures of objects up close. Then, have them show you their photos and see if you can guess what those objects are.

9. Having an Eye for Detail

An eye for detail is a great thing to have as a photographer. Encourage them to slow down before they take the picture.

Are they holding the camera straight? Is the subject crooked? Is there a random, distracting object in the photo that could be removed? This is a good time to teach young photographers to look for distractions in the background, too.

Make suggestions on looking for distracting objects that could be removed by adjusting the perspective and zoom. Help them see awkward background placement, like a telephone pole sprouting from the subject’s head.

A great exercise to teach this is to try the opposite. Ask them to take funny pictures of their stuffed animal wearing funny “hats.” Have them position objects in the background that appear to pop from the stuffed animal’s head.

10. Being Creative

Children often have their drawings and artwork graded in today’s rigid academic schedule. Take a different approach to photography for kids. Let the child know that photography is about creativity and showing others how you see the world.

Encourage creativity, even if it means “breaking the rules.” Tell them what you love about the photo. Then, instead of telling them what you hate about the photo, encourage them by using “what ifs.”

For example, “What if you laid on your belly to photograph that flower instead of standing over it?” Or, “What if you placed the flower off to the side of the picture instead of in the center?” Rather than criticizing, help them see the possibilities!

11. Storytelling With Pictures

A good photograph tells a story. And it’s important to teach kids that it’s possible to do this with their photography.

Look over their photos and ask them to tell you a story about what’s going on in the photo. This exercise helps kids recognize that photographs tell a story or a narrative.

12. Setting a Daily Photo Challenge

This is particularly good if you’re on vacation, where every day can present a different challenge. One day, it could be door handles. The next day, street animals or sea shells.

The possibilities are endless, and the challenge helps your kids look for things deliberately. They then think about how to capture and present the subject interestingly.

You can expand the challenge on a day out. For instance, telling them, “Find five different chairs and photograph them,” could keep them busy all day. And they will always see the world around them with a photographer’s eye!

13. How to Care for a Camera

Simply owning a camera is a lesson in itself in responsibility. If you give a child a camera, teach them how to take care of it. If they know and appreciate the value of a camera, it might also save you some money in the long run!

Whether it’s a kid’s camera or a more advanced digital one, it’s important to teach them that cameras are fragile. This can also be a good time to review the parts of a camera and the basics of how it works.

Kids should be taught to use the neck strap to avoid accidentally dropping the camera. They should also be instructed to keep it in a camera case or a safe spot when not in use so it’s not damaged. It’s also a good idea to teach kids how to use a lens cloth to clean the lens.

14. Appreciating Photos as Art

Photography for kids can also build an appreciation of art in general. Besides encouraging kids to take photos, encourage them to look at photos too.

Go to an art museum and talk about the images or Google images of some of their favorite places or things. Discuss the images and why they like them or not. You can also discuss the photography terms or concepts you’ve already introduced.

15. Practicing Picture-Taking

If the kids you teach use digital cameras, little is wasted when practicing photography. Encourage children to take another shot to fix what they didn’t like the first time.

Cameras that kids can use without supervision are perfect. They should be inexpensive and not overly complicated. These include kid cameras or even instant or Polaroid cameras. Kids can practice with them anytime.

It’s best if they can take their camera places to photograph whatever inspires them as they go through their day. This makes picture-taking second nature to them.

Photography for Kids FAQs

These are common and frequently asked questions we get about photography for kids. We hope these answers help you better teach kids about photography.

How Do I Start Photography for Kids?

Start with simple, engaging activities like photo scavenger hunts or capturing what’s in your backyard. Emphasize fun and experimentation to ignite their interest.

What Is a Good Age to Start Photography?

Kids as young as five can grasp basic concepts. But at around 8 to 10 years old, they develop better motor skills and attention span for structured learning.

How Do I Teach My Child to Take Pictures?

Begin with the fundamentals—holding the camera steady, choosing and framing subjects. Encourage creativity and storytelling, guiding them to see the world through their lens.

Teaching older kids concepts such as camera modes and exposure is good. The biggest thing to remember when teaching photography to kids is to encourage them to be creative and show their view of the world.

What Are the Best Photography Classes for Kids?

We have recommendations for beginner photography classes online. These classes are geared toward adults, but you can use them as a reference to teach kids about photography.

Basic photography classes teach students how to use a camera, recognize a picture in a scene, and compose an image. Some common topics include exposure, shutter speed, aperture, ISO, focus, and editing software.

What Is the Best Beginner Camera for a Child?

The best beginner camera for a child is durable, easy to use, and offers different shooting modes. Waterproof cameras are great for kids because they’re hard to destroy.

An older child may do well with a used, beginner DSLR or cheap digital camera. You can also start kids with disposable cameras or instant cameras. Of course, many kids start with your smartphone’s camera or theirs. That’s fine, too, and it is a great learning opportunity.

The Best Cameras for Kids to Shoot Photography

Seckton Kids Selfie Camera

Seckton Kids Selfie Camera

Dylanto Instant Camera for Kids

Dylanto Instant Camera for Kids

MyFirst Camera 3

MyFirst Camera 3

Conclusion: Photography for Kids

Teaching children photography doesn’t just give them the skills to take a good photograph. Photography for kids exercises their creative muscles and encourages exploration. It builds valuable visual and critical thinking skills for later in life.

When teaching kids photography, start slow and use plenty of encouragement. Build on each skill, moving at whatever pace works best for the child’s skill level. Encourage practice with photography games and give them lots of time with a camera!

Video Course

Photography for Beginners

Unlock the secrets to stunning photography with this course:

• Learn to effortlessly set up your camera for any situation.
• Master the art of selecting the perfect exposure every time.
• Discover 10 composition rules that elevate your photos instantly.

Our top pick is this Rustic Town leather cover photo album. It is big, stylish, and will protect your prized photos.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Photo Album

Genuine Leather Photo Album: Rustic Town, Scrapbook Style

Genuine Leather Photo Album: Rustic Town, Scrapbook Style

Gallery Leather Acadia Tan Photo Album 11.75″x10.5″

Gallery Leather Acadia Tan Photo Album 11.75″x10.5″

Kolo Hudson 2up Photo Album

Kolo Hudson 2up Photo Album

What Is the Best Photo Album?

There are tons of different types of photo albums. You can choose between simple “magnetic” albums where a flap of clinging plastic holds the photos in place. Or your album can have plastic pockets to simply slip the pictures in. Finally, you can use glue or corners to fix photos, tickets, or postcards into a “scrapbook” style album. The best photo album is the one that works for you.

Before we look at the albums we’ve chosen, here’s a summary of them all.

Our Top Pick

Genuine Leather Photo Album: Rustic Town, Scrapbook Style

Genuine Leather Photo Album: Rustic Town, Scrapbook Style

• Handcrafted genuine leather, wrap closure
• High quality acid-free cotton rag paper
• Holds 200 4 x 6-inch or 5 x 7-inch photos
• Versatile use for weddings, travel, and scrapbooking

Best Loose-Leaf Design

Gallery Leather Acadia Tan Photo Album 11.75″x10.5″

Gallery Leather Acadia Tan Photo Album 11.75″x10.5″

• Handcrafted, stylish leather design
• Gold-embossed accents, acid-free vellum
• Holds 120 4 x 6-inch or 4 x 7-inch photos
• Lifetime guarantee, assembled in Maine

Best Square Album

Kolo Hudson 2up Photo Album

Kolo Hudson 2up Photo Album

• Combines analog charm with modern design
• Holds 200 photos, easy assembly
• Archival-grade, acid-free art paper
• Customizable 3 x 3-inch cover window

Best Pocket album

200-Pocket Euro Bonded Leather Photo Album 4×6 Prints

200-Pocket Euro Bonded Leather Photo Album 4×6 Prints

• Deluxe raised rounded spine design
• Holds 200 photos with memo area
• Bidirectional pages for versatility
• Archival-quality paper is acid and PVC-free

Best Post-and-Screw Album

Pioneer X-Pando Magnetic Album, Hunter Green

Pioneer X-Pando Magnetic Album, Hunter Green

• Self-adhesive clear plastic overlays
• Holds popular print sizes, including panoramics
• Stainless steel screw-post binding for unlimited refills
• Deluxe, washable faux leather padded cover

Best Large-Format Album

Large Leather DIY Photo Album

Large Leather DIY Photo Album

• High-quality durable PU leather cover
• Holds various sizes of photos and tickets
• Dust-free, waterproof preservation
• Perfect gift for special occasions

Best Budget Album

Pretty in Pink: KZ-46 Mini Frame Photo Album

Pretty in Pink: KZ-46 Mini Frame Photo Album

• Padded cover with front frame
• Holds 24 4 x 6-inch photos
• Clear pockets, black mesh background
• Uses acid and PVC-free paper

Best Display-Book Album

2-Pack Black Flexible Photo Albums, Holds 48 6×4 Photos

2-Pack Black Flexible Photo Albums, Holds 48 6×4 Photos

• Sturdy, elegant design for durability
• Archival-quality sleeves protect photos
• Compact size for easy portability
• 2-pack album set for extra storage

Best Wedding Album

Elegant Wedding Album – 12″ Square, 2 Pockets, Gift

Elegant Wedding Album – 12″ Square, 2 Pockets, Gift

• Elegant design for timeless memories
• High-quality paper fits various photo sizes
• Over 800 adhesive tabs included
• Convenient storage pockets for mementos

Best Magnetic Album

RECUTMS Self Adhesive Photo Album

RECUTMS Self Adhesive Photo Album

• Spacious layout for various photo sizes
• Quality self-adhesive pages preserve memories
• Stylish PU leather cover with photo window
• Perfect gift for special occasions

The Best Photo Albums in More Detail

Now let’s look at what each of our recommendations has to offer.

1. Genuine Leather Photo Album: Rustic Town, Scrapbook Style

Brand	Brand RUSTIC TOWN
Size	Size 12 x 8.7 inches (30.5 x 22 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Scrapbook
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 5 x 7 inches (12.7 x 17.7 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Acid-free cotton rag pages with interleaves
Best For	Best For Storing a mixture of sizes and items with style

×

Genuine Leather Photo Album: Rustic Town, Scrapbook Style

Amazon

$55.99 $85.00

Buy Now!

This Rustic Town leather photo album will look great on your shelves or coffee table. It has an Indiana Jones vibe about it. The cover is held closed by a flap and leather strap. I confess this is a little bit of a triumph of style over function. But this album is for style-conscious people.

There’s nothing quite like leather photo albums for looking classy. And the leather is soft and supple and will only improve with age.

The pages are made from acid-free cotton rag. There is a patterned, semi-transparent interleaf between all the pages. You’ll need glue or adhesive photo corners to add your photos. But you can mix and match sizes, labels, and other media to the pages.

For stylish flexibility, the Rustic Town photo album is a great choice. It comes nicely nestled in a presentation and storage box. Its success as a photo album will depend on the quality of the glue or photo corners that you use.

2. Gallery Leather Acadia Tan Photo Album 11.75 x 10.5

Brand	Brand Gallery Leather
Size	Size 11.75 x 10.5 inches (29.9 x 26.7 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Bonded leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Pocket, loose-leaf
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 4 x 6 inches (10 x 15 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Mix and match various inserts, lifetime guarantee
Best For	Best For Scrapbooking and storing mixed media

×

Gallery Leather Acadia Tan Photo Album 11.75″x10.5″

Amazon

$50.00

Buy Now!

This Gallery Leather photo album is a good choice if you’re looking for a big leather album. It’s not as quaint as the Rustic Town album, but it has some great features. It is a loose-leaf design, which means you can mix and match the inserts to your photos.

You can add inserts for photos of three different sizes. They are 4 x 7 inches (10 x 17.7 cm), 5 x 7 inches (12.7 x 17.7 cm), and 10 x 8 inches (25.4 x 20.3 cm). You can also choose black scrapbooking inserts.

You can also add photo notes in the 4 x 6-inch leaves. They come on a sheet, making it easier to write or print on than if they are in the album.

The inserts are free from PVC and acid. Like all Gallery Leather products, the whole photo album carries a lifetime guarantee. The ability to mix and match the contents is a real benefit to this album.

3. Kolo Hudson 2up Photo Album

Brand	Brand Kolo
Size	Size 8.25 x 8.75 inches (20.95 x 22.23 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Cloth-covered board
Fixing System	Fixing System Pockets
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 4 x 6 inches (10 x 15 cm)
Key Features	Key Features 12 different colors, quality paper with room for notes
Best For	Best For Hard-wearing storage of photos

×

Kolo Hudson 2up Photo Album

Amazon

$49.00

Buy Now!

One neat feature of the Kolo Hudson is the archival acid-free paper. Even though it has pocket-style photo storage, the pockets are fixed to high-quality paper. This means you can write any notes or memories right next to the photo.

A three-inch square window on the front can be used for a cover picture. The book cloth cover material is durable and should last a long time. The album comes in 12 different colors as well as black leather. There is also a 3up version with space for 300 4 x 6-inch (10 x 15 cm) photos.

Kolo says that the Hudson 2up is the best-selling premium album in the US. And it’s easy to see why, as it offers incredible quality and ease of use.

4. 200-Pocket Euro Bonded Leather Photo Album 4x6 Prints

Brand	Brand Pioneer Photo Albums
Size	Size 9.25 x 9.25 inches (23.5 x 23.5 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Bonded leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Pockets
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 4 x 6 inches (10 x 15 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Low-cost option, leaves are free of acid, lignin, and PVC
Best For	Best For Anyone needing good-looking storage at a decent price

×

200-Pocket Euro Bonded Leather Photo Album 4×6 Prints

Amazon

$18.88

Buy Now!

This Pioneer Photo Album solves a common headache. One problem with slip-in leaves for photo albums is that you can normally only insert photos in one orientation. So you have to rotate the whole album to see any photo that’s oriented otherwise.

Pioneer Photo Albums has overcome this problem with a patented slip-in page that accepts prints in either format. At least for the standard 6 x 4-inch picture size.

Alongside the pockets is a “memo section” where you can write details of the photograph. But some users have warned that the ink can smudge easily. So you have to be careful with your pen choice.

The leaves themselves are free from acid, lignin, and PVC. This should ensure a long life for your photos.

The cover is bonded leather. It’s not as fancy as full-grain leather, but it does add a touch of luxury at a more affordable price. At this price, the Pioneer is an affordable solution for collecting your photos with a touch of style.

5. Pioneer X-Pando Magnetic Album, Hunter Green

Brand	Brand Pioneer Photo Albums
Size	Size 12 x 12.7 inches (31 x 32.4 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Faux leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Magnetic
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 11.4 x 11.75 inches (28.9 x 29.8 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Post-and-screw page fixing for versatility
Best For	Best For Anyone looking to simply fix multiple sizes of photos

×

Pioneer X-Pando Magnetic Album, Hunter Green

Amazon

$18.40 $29.62

Buy Now!

The Pioneer Photo Albums X-Pando offers a flexible-format album with so-called magnetic leaves. This is the commonly used term for a card leaf with a plastic overlay. This overlay adheres to the card stock but not the photo.

The inserts are free of acid, lignin, and PVC and are held in place with posts and screws. This means you can add extra pages as and when you wish. The large, almost-square format accommodates everything up to 8 x 10-inch prints.

The free-form possibilities mean you can add concert tickets, postcards, notes, or anything flat to the pages. The Pioneer Photo Albums X-Pando is a great choice for holidays or family celebrations.

6. Large Leather DIY Photo Album

Brand	Brand Zoview
Size	Size 13 x 13.2 inches (33 x 33.5 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Faux leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Magnetic
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 12.4 x 12.8 inches (31.5 x 32.5 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Post-and-screw page fixing, elegant decorative stitching
Best For	Best For Anyone looking for a good-looking but reasonably priced album

×

Large Leather DIY Photo Album

Amazon

$25.99

Buy Now!

This Zoview Album is our last large-scale album. The Zoview is another magnetic album with acid-free leaves. And the plastic covers should protect your photos even if you spill liquid on them.

The photo album looks the part. Although it’s only faux leather, it’s nicely stitched to give it a classy look.

The leaves are big enough to hold two 4 x 6-inch or even 5 x 7-inch prints. Like other magnetic pages, you’re not limited to a uniform size or even just to photos. If you run out of space, a simple post-and-screw system allows you to add new pages.

The Zoview provides good-looking storage at a lower price than a premium album. Its flexibility and expandability make it a good choice.

7. Pretty in Pink: KZ-46 Mini Frame Photo Album

Brand	Brand Pioneer Photo Albums
Size	Size 4.88 x 6.5 inches (13.4 x 16.5 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Plastic
Fixing System	Fixing System Pockets
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 4 x 6 inches (10 x 15 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Cheap and fun photo storage, easily portable
Best For	Best For Taking your photos to show family and friends

×

Pretty in Pink: KZ-46 Mini Frame Photo Album

Amazon

$1.99

Buy Now!

This Pioneer Pretty in Pink album is small and cheap. So far, the cheapest photo album we’ve seen was under $20. But if even that’s more than you want to spend, then this Pioneer photo album might suit you. It is smaller in size and capacity. But with its bright pink cover, it’s larger in attitude.

This is an album simply designed for convenience and compactness. The pockets have no memo space, and will only accept the standard 4 x 6-inch photos in one orientation. But it’s clearly intended for easy portability. And there is a small frame on the front to showcase a cover photo.

Despite this, the Pioneer Mini Album’s pockets are free from acid, lignin, and PVC. So your photos are protected from premature aging better than other budget photo albums.

8. 2-Pack Black Flexible Photo Albums, Holds 48 4 x 6 Photos

Brand	Brand Dunwell
Size	Size 5.3 x 7.4 inches (13.5 x 18.8 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Flexible plastic
Fixing System	Fixing System Pockets
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 4 x 6 inches (10 x 15 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Glare-free and non-cling pockets
Best For	Best For Quickly and easily storing your 4 x 6-inch photos

×

2-Pack Black Flexible Photo Albums, Holds 48 6×4 Photos

Amazon

$9.45 $12.95

Buy Now!

This Dunwell photo album is most useful for quickly storing and displaying your favorite photos. If you have a lot of photos to archive, it can be helpful just to get them in an album. Fancy labels and annotations have their place. But sometimes life is too short.

It costs less than $10 for a two-pack of these Dunwell photo albums. But you still get non-cling pockets that are anti-glare and acid-free. That means that you can quickly and easily get the photos safely stored and ready to view. It makes for good photo storage before moving the best ones into something nicer.

9. Elegant Wedding Album - 12 inch

Brand	Brand Your Perfect Day
Size	Size 12.5 x 12.5 inches (31.8 x 31.8 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Scrapbook
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 5 x 7 inches (12.7 x 17.7 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Luxurious leather cover, comes complete with mounts
Best For	Best For Anyone who wants a beautiful memento of their special day

×

Elegant Wedding Album – 12″ Square, 2 Pockets, Gift

Amazon

$52.99 $69.99

Buy Now!

The Your Perfect Day Wedding Album wears its intent on its (plush leather) sleeve. Even when it looked like printed photos were dying, wedding photos refused to lie down.

Wedding photo albums are as much a part of the big day as the bouquet. And Your Perfect Day’s wedding album has a luxuriously soft leather cover. This gives it a sense of occasion that befits the memories it holds.

The leaves are plain with a semi-opaque protective page between the pages. The album comes complete with 800 photo mounts to fix your photos. The album is big enough to allow a combination of photo sizes and orientations.

It’s a wedding photo album, so it’s important that you can fit in those bigger photos. You can even include some Polaroids if your guests have been taking them. It also has room for service orders and other mementos inside the back cover.

Some people have even used it as a guestbook on the big day, adding photos and mementos later. This Your Perfect Day Wedding Album is a flexible solution to giving your wedding photos a touch of class while keeping them safe. It’s an album you will return to time and again.

10. RECUTMS Self Adhesive Photo Album

Brand	Brand RECUTMS
Size	Size 13.6 x 13.2 inches (34.5 x 33.5 cm)
Cover Material	Cover Material Faux leather
Fixing System	Fixing System Magnetic
Max Photo Size	Max Photo Size 12.5 x 11 inches (31.8 x 27.9 cm)
Key Features	Key Features Magnetic leaves for flexible arrangements, comes in 12 different colors
Best For	Best For Anyone looking for a wedding album that makes a bold statement

×

RECUTMS Self Adhesive Photo Album

Amazon

$28.99

Buy Now!

Amazon.co.uk

$46.61

Buy Now!

Amazon.de

$55.16

Buy Now!

Amazon.sg

$67.77

Buy Now!

Amazon.com.au

$80.72 $86.67

Buy Now!

Amazon.ca

$80.02 $93.15

Buy Now!

Amazon.sa

$249.70

Buy Now!

This RECUTMS wedding album also allows you to use a mixture of photo sizes. But because it’s magnetic, you don’t need to use glue or sticky pads. It also means you can change your mind (and your photo layout).

The photo album protects your photos with pages that are free of lignin, PVC, and acid. The faux leather cover is available in 12 different colors and is buttoned for a classic look. There is a front cover window to make the album more personal.

This RECUTMS photo album is great for a wedding album. It’s got beautiful colors and an elegant finish. And it’s perfect if you want versatile formatting options and no photo corners.

What to Look For in the Best Photo Albums

There are some important questions to ask yourself before choosing your album. Here are some thoughts to help you.

What Purpose Do You Want Your Album to Serve?

You don’t want a leather-bound monster to cart around with you to show your friends photos at the coffee shop. But you don’t want to throw your wedding photos in a dollar store plastic 4 x 6-inch photo wallet. So think about the purpose of each photo album when you choose it.

The best photo albums will display your photos well. But these are your own photos, so pick the best way to show them off.

What’s the Best Way to Stick Your Photos in Your Album?

It’s stating the obvious, but you have to stick your photos in your photo album somehow. Years ago, magnetic albums were cheap nightmares. They lost their stickiness and shed your photos like a Husky sheds hair in the spring. Thankfully, these have improved over the years. They’re certainly better now than the cheap ones of the past.

They’re made of a rigid board and a clear sheet of plastic that you place your photos between. You peel the plastic back, then place your photos and cover them. The plastic adheres to the pages but not the photos.

The benefit is that it’s not as fiddly as using glues or mounts. And it allows you to include other flat objects like tickets or postcards. You must remember to leave enough margin around the photos to give the plastic something to stick to.

Pocket photo albums have plastic sleeves with pockets for you to slip the photos into. The advantage is that it is quick and easy. On the downside, you are restricted to the photo size chosen by the manufacturer.

Scrapbook-style albums provide you with a blank canvas, so to speak. You can choose to stick whatever you want, wherever you want it. The advantage is that you can be very creative. You can place the photos however you want.

If you can draw or write beautifully, you can annotate or illustrate your pages. Like a magnetic album, you can add other elements like place cards from your wedding. The disadvantage is that your photo mounts, glue, or sticky pads have to be good. Otherwise, the photos can come loose.

What Else Should I Consider?

Perhaps the most important is the protection the album gives. I have been careful to choose albums that don’t include chemicals or substances that will harm your photos.

Acid is frequently used in paper production and can damage photos over time. Lignin, a natural part of paper pulp, is what causes it to yellow with age. This is also undesirable in your photo albums. It’s best to look for photo albums with pages that are free from PVC, acid, and lignan.

 

Conclusion: What Is the Best Photo Album?

There is such a wide range of purposes for a photo album. From the obvious wedding day to a carefully curated record of a holiday, our top pick is the Rustic Town leather photo album. We love its quality look. And as it gets older and more worn, it will look better and better. It’s big enough for most purposes and small enough to be practical.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Photo Album

Genuine Leather Photo Album: Rustic Town, Scrapbook Style

Genuine Leather Photo Album: Rustic Town, Scrapbook Style

Gallery Leather Acadia Tan Photo Album 11.75″x10.5″

Gallery Leather Acadia Tan Photo Album 11.75″x10.5″

Kolo Hudson 2up Photo Album

Kolo Hudson 2up Photo Album

Our top pick is a great all-rounder. The TOPDON TC002 has an impressive temperature range, excellent refresh rate and sensitivity, and is compact and simple to use.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Thermal Camera

TOPDON TC002 Thermal Imaging Camera

TOPDON TC002 Thermal Imaging Camera

PerfectPrime IR202 Thermal Image Camera

PerfectPrime IR202 Thermal Image Camera

FLIR ONE Gen 3 Thermal Camera

FLIR ONE Gen 3 Thermal Camera

What Is the Best Thermal Camera?

We’re going to look at our choices in detail. But first, here’s a summary of our recommended thermal cameras for you.

Our Top Pick

TOPDON TC002 Thermal Imaging Camera

TOPDON TC002 Thermal Imaging Camera

• Available for Lightning and USB-C
• Impressive 40 mK sensitivity
• Extension cable for remote imaging
• 25 Hz refresh rate
• 256 x 192 pixels resolution

Best Budget Phone Camera

PerfectPrime IR202 Thermal Image Camera

PerfectPrime IR202 Thermal Image Camera

• Available for Android and iOS
• Plug-and-play simplicity
• 15 Hz refresh rate
• Small and compact
• Perfect for occasional use

Best Value FLIR Camera

FLIR ONE Gen 3 Thermal Camera

FLIR ONE Gen 3 Thermal Camera

• Available for iOS and Android
• Micro USB and USB-C for Android
• MSX imaging technology
• Records video and stills to the cloud
• Works with most phone cases

Highest Resolution Plug-In

Seek Thermal CompactPRO Thermal Imaging Camera

Seek Thermal CompactPRO Thermal Imaging Camera

• Android and iOS versions
• USB-C and Micro USB for Android
• High 320 x 240 pixel resolution
• Neat and compact
• Available in several versions

Best Value Standalone

FLIR C3-X Thermal Camera

FLIR C3-X Thermal Camera

• MSX technology
• 5 MP visible light sensor
• Built-in LED light
• Rugged construction
• IP54 weather protection

Best Budget Pistol-Grip

FLIR TG267 Thermal Camera

FLIR TG267 Thermal Camera

• MSX and laser for accurate aiming
• Up to 5 hours of battery life
• Tripod mount
• 4 GB internal storage
• IP54-rated for weather protection

Best Value for High Temperature Sensitivity

HTI-Xintai HTI-19 Thermal Camera

HTI-Xintai HTI-19 Thermal Camera

• Up to 500 C temperature sensitivity
• High resolution of 320 x 240 pixels
• 50 mK sensitivity
• 3 GB internal storage
• Parallax error compensation

Best Hand-held

Seek Thermal Revealpro Thermal Camera

Seek Thermal Revealpro Thermal Camera

• Affordable price point
• Portable and lightweight design
• Real-time high-resolution thermal imaging
• Detects temperature range from -40 C to 626 C
• Compact and durable design

Best for Security and Hunting

FLIR Scout TK Compact Thermal Imaging Monocular

FLIR Scout TK Compact Thermal Imaging Monocular

• Detects heat signatures up to 100 yards away
• Records still images and videos
• Easy to use one-handed
• Compact and lightweight design
• Rugged and waterproof construction

Best for Streaming Images

Seek Thermal ShotPRO Thermal Image Camera

Seek Thermal ShotPRO Thermal Image Camera

• Identifies temperature differences up to 1000 feet away
• Detects both heat and cold spots
• Capture images and videos in the included app
• Easy-to-use and intuitive interface
• Lightweight and compact design

Best Pro Choice

BOSCH GTC400C Thermal Image Camera

BOSCH GTC400C Thermal Image Camera

• Instantly detects hot and cold spots
• Allows quick and easy temperature measurement
• 2 mK thermal sensitivity for accurate results
• Features an intuitive user interface
• Rugged construction for durability

Best All-around Inspection Tool

FLIR MR277 Moisture Meter, IR Camera and Hygrometer

FLIR MR277 Moisture Meter, IR Camera and Hygrometer

• Spot temperature differences quickly
• High-sensitivity detector for accurate readings
• Clear thermal image and visible image overlays
• 4x digital zoom for easier analysis
• Real-time thermal monitoring

Highest Temperature Range

FLIR E8-XT Infrared Camera

FLIR E8-XT Infrared Camera

• Quickly and easily diagnose problems
• Accurate non-contact temperature measurement
• Detects hidden problems
• 8,500 temperature points for detailed images
• High resolution imagery

13 Best Thermal Cameras

Now let’s look in more detail at our recommended thermal cameras. Jump to our buying guide at the end if you need some help sorting out features to consider. Or it may answer some questions you may have.

1. TOPDON TC002 Thermal Imaging Camera

Brand	Brand TOPDON
Resolution	Resolution 256 x 192 pixels
Sensitivity Range	Sensitivity Range -4 to 1022 F (-20 to 550 C)
Thermal Sensitivity	Thermal Sensitivity 40 mK
Key Features	Key Features 25 Hz frame rate, available for USB-C Android and iPhone
Best For	Best For Reaching awkward places with the extension cable

×

TOPDON TC002 Thermal Imaging Camera

Amazon.co.uk

$209.00 $273.99

Buy Now!

Amazon.de

$239.00 $299.00

Buy Now!

Amazon.it

$246.99 $309.99

Buy Now!

Amazon.es

$249.99 $309.99

Buy Now!

Amazon

$289.00

Buy Now!

Amazon.ca

$315.00 $399.00

Buy Now!

The TOPDON TC002 is an impressive thermal imaging camera. First of all, it’s neat and compact. It attaches to the bottom of your phone via Lightning or USB-C. And it comes in a handy zippered pouch for safekeeping.

There is also a short extension cable. So if you need to get into a space that’s too big for your phone, you can use the TC002 remotely. It’s very handy.

The TC002 can be plugged in facing towards or away from you, which is handy. When you connect it, the phone will automatically ask you if you want to launch the Topinfrared app.

The app is very to use. You can choose a live view of what you see and take a photo or video of it. You can also choose to monitor a spot, line, or plane.

What I love about the TOPDON TC002 is that it is simple to use for a complete beginner. And it is also a very sophisticated piece of kit for the advanced user. I actually keep mine either in my camera backpack or take it with me when I’m traveling.

2. PerfectPrime IR202 Infrared Thermal Camera

Brand	Brand PerfectPrime
Resolution	Resolution 80 x 60 pixels
Sensitivity Range	Sensitivity Range -40 to 752 F (-40 to 400 C)
Thermal Sensitivity	Thermal Sensitivity 150 mK
Key Features	Key Features 15 Hz frame rate, available for USB-C Android and iPhone
Best For	Best For Keeping in the toolbox for occasional use

×

PerfectPrime IR202 Thermal Image Camera

Amazon

$139.99

Buy Now!

The PerfectPrime IR202 is our best budget thermal imaging camera. And it makes you feel like James Bond. It attaches to the bottom of your Android smartphone via the USB-C socket or the Lightning port if you have an iPhone.

And it uses your phone’s battery and screen. So you don’t have to worry about the screen resolution. The idea is quite simple. Plug the infrared (IR) camera into the phone. Then use the phone’s processing power, battery, and screen to do the rest.

This is a very small unit. It adds a shade over an inch (2.5 cm) to the length of your phone. You can easily carry it in a bag or even in your pocket. And it comes with a pouch to protect it.

The refresh rate of the image is 15 Hz or 15 frames per second (fps). This is adequate if you’re looking for heat leaking from your house. If you want to identify prey on a hunt, then look elsewhere. A moving image with this low frame rate is tiring on the eyes.

It’s unlikely a daily building inspector would buy this. Not all industry people believe the product’s temperature range and sensitivity claims.

But it’s worth considering this thermal imaging camera if you have an occasional need. Or maybe you just fancy having a nifty thermal gadget to add to your collection.

There is another version available. It’s a pricier, higher-resolution thermal scanning camera.

3. FLIR ONE Gen 3 Thermal Camera

Brand	Brand FLIR
Resolution	Resolution 80 x 60 pixels
Sensitivity Range	Sensitivity Range -4 to 248 F (-20 to 120 C)
Thermal Sensitivity	Thermal Sensitivity 150 mK
Key Features	Key Features MSX technology for quality, enhanced imaging, iPhone and Android USB-C versions
Best For	Best For Finding electric, insulation, or water problems around the house

×

FLIR ONE Gen 3 Thermal Camera

Amazon

$229.99

Buy Now!

FLIR is a pretty dominant brand in the thermal imaging camera sector. There is a wide range of FLIR cameras that cater to many budgets. And this is one of their cheaper ones.

Like the PerfectPrime, the FLIR ONE Gen 3 attaches an IR camera to the bottom of your phone. But it has its own battery that needs to be charged. So this could limit long sessions.

FLIR supplies an adapter to connect to Android handsets equipped with USB-C ports. Rather handily, you can adjust the connector. This means it should cope with a wide range of cases. So you don’t have to remove the case before using the thermal camera.

FLIR is a popular manufacturer because of its MSX (Multi-Spectral Dynamic Imaging) technology. Many thermal imaging devices allow you to see either thermal or visible light images.

Often cameras blend them to show more precisely where the hotspots (or coldspots) are. Remember, the thermal image is a much lower resolution than the visible light image. So having the detail from the visible light camera is a bonus.

MSX technology is slightly different. It takes the visible light images and uses them to emboss the thermal imaging. This can be very useful if you’re looking for a heat signature in a tangle of wires or pipes.

What the Gen 3 doesn’t do is allow infrared or visual images to be shown on their own. But this is their entry-level device, so the features are limited.

The FLIR app allows you to record stills and videos and organize the files. If you’re one of several users in an organization, there is a cloud option to store and access everyone’s images.

4. Seek Thermal CompactPRO Thermal Imaging Camera

Brand	Brand Seek Thermal
Resolution	Resolution 320 x 240 pixels
Sensitivity Range	Sensitivity Range -40 to 626 F (-40 to 330 C)
Thermal Sensitivity	Thermal Sensitivity 70 mK
Key Features	Key Features 15 Hz frame rate, available for Micro USB, USB-C, and iPhone
Best For	Best For Multi-function indoor and outdoor use

×

Seek Thermal CompactPRO Thermal Imaging Camera

Amazon

$619.01

Buy Now!

Another thermal imaging phone attachment is the Seek Thermal CompactPRO. It helps you see everything from building problems to animals in the dark.

But be aware that the frame rate of the Seek Thermal CompactPRO could land you in trouble if you try to leave the US with it! There are restrictions on IR devices above certain specifications. This is put in place in case they’re used for military purposes.

So this is not an international travel option. Consider other options if your needs are linked to finding the best thermal imaging camera for travel.

The refresh rate of 15 Hz is higher than the FLIR ONE. And the IR image resolution is significantly higher. But you have to consider that there is no visual image blending or overlay. So the 320 x 240 resolution is the highest you get. This could be a deal breaker for you.

The CompactPRO is available in several different models. So it’s a consideration if you might change your phone soon. It also comes in cheaper Compact and Compact XR versions.

5. FLIR C3-X Compact Thermal Camera

Brand	Brand FLIR
Resolution	Resolution 128 x 96 pixels
Sensitivity Range	Sensitivity Range -4 to 572 F (-20 to 300 C)
Thermal Sensitivity	Thermal Sensitivity 70 mK
Key Features	Key Features MSX technology, LED light, and robust case
Best For	Best For Demanding everyday use

×

FLIR C3-X Thermal Camera

Amazon

$581.84

Buy Now!

Like our second option, this is a FLIR. So you get MSX technology. This is also a standalone unit. So it has an IR camera and a visible light camera. It is a 5 MP device. This is much less than we are used to nowadays, but enough for these purposes.

The FLIR C3-X comes in a robust case designed to survive two-meter drops. The touchscreen display is 640 x 480 pixels. It’s low by phone and camera standards but adequate for the task. And there is an LED light to help the f/1.1 aperture on the visible-light camera in poor light.

This thermal camera offers good flexibility for viewing images. You can view what the IR sensors see or what the normal camera sees. Also, you can see the MSX or a picture-in-picture IR image on top of the visual image. The refresh rate is 9 Hz.

The FLIR C3-X uses a rechargeable battery. It should give you about 2 hours of use in normal circumstances. And as with all FLIR IR cameras, the software is key to making the most of the thermal images. It also allows easy sharing.

This rugged, no-nonsense thermal imaging device meets most needs very well. I haven’t included a separate entry for the FLIR C5. It is very similar to look at but has an upgraded sensor.

It also has a higher top limit of temperature detection of 752 F (400 C) and a better resolution of 160 x 120 pixels. This is a 50% increase. Both have IP54 weather ratings.

6. FLIR TG267 Thermal Camera

Brand	Brand FLIR
Resolution	Resolution 160 x 120 pixels
Sensitivity Range	Sensitivity Range -13 to 716 F (-25 to 380 C)
Thermal Sensitivity	Thermal Sensitivity 70 mK
Key Features	Key Features MSX, IP54 rating, laser aim indicator, 4 GB storage
Best For	Best For Using one-handed or with a tripod

×

FLIR TG267 Thermal Camera

Amazon

$449.00

Buy Now!

This is another FLIR and another different body shape. The FLIR TG267 resembles a barcode scanner. The screen sits atop a pistol grip.

It has an IP54 rating and drop resistance. And it is easy to use with one hand and has a laser to show you where it’s pointing. The target market for these IR cameras is likely mechanics. 

The pistol grip allows for a bigger battery, giving you up to five hours of use. MSX imaging is there, of course. But you are limited to the IR image or the MSX.

There is no non-IR image available. But you can record visual images with temperatures overlaid.

There’s 4 GB of onboard storage. There is also a tripod mount, which is useful to have. There’s no Wi-Fi, so you must rely on the USB cable. And you also use this to charge the camera, which takes four hours to 90%.

If you need to use a thermal camera easily with one hand, the TG267 is well worth a look.

7. Hti-Xintai HTI-19 Infrared Thermal Camera

Brand	Brand Hti-Xintai
Resolution	Resolution 320 x 240 pixels
Sensitivity Range	Sensitivity Range -4 to 932 F (-20 to 500 C)
Thermal Sensitivity	Thermal Sensitivity 50 mK
Key Features	Key Features High maximum temperature and 3 GB memory
Best For	Best For Users needing a higher temperature range

×

HTI-Xintai HTI-19 Thermal Camera

The Hti HT19 is another pistol-grip camera for thermal imaging. It has 3 GB of onboard memory and a rechargeable battery. It should give you about three hours of recording thermal images.

The conventional camera records as usual. The refresh rate is 9 fps.

The menus allow you to adjust the position of the images. This is because, like any similar camera, there is some parallax error. This varies according to the distance from the subject.

The 50 mK sensitivity is impressive. So is the high maximum temperature of 932 F (500 C). This might be a major selling point for you at this price point.

In other ways, there are some shortcomings. There’s no tripod mount. There is no wireless option, so you must transfer images via USB. And there’s no target laser for easy target pointing.

The 320 x 240 resolution is a plus. And combined with the high maximum temperature range, it’s worth a look.

8. Seek Thermal Revealpro Thermal Imaging Camera

Brand	Brand Seek Thermal
Resolution	Resolution 320 x 240 pixels
Sensitivity Range	Sensitivity Range -40 to 626 F (-40 to 330 C)
Thermal Sensitivity	Thermal Sensitivity 70 mK
Key Features	Key Features 15 fps refresh rate and palm-held orientation
Best For	Best For Awkward access locations

×

Seek Thermal Revealpro Thermal Camera

Amazon

$693.99

Buy Now!

The Seek Thermal RevealPRO is a rugged palm-held device. Unlike the FLIR C3-X, it’s easy to use this one-handed. That’s because the lens is on the lead edge of the housing, not opposite the screen.

The screen is covered by Gorilla glass for ruggedness. The 15 fps refresh rate is good for moving objects. And you can store the images on a normal SD memory card. But ironically, there’s no video capability.

There’s a built-in 300-lumen LED light to help illuminate your subject if it’s in total darkness. And the shape of this thermal camera is helpful in places with very narrow access. Plus, the light will help you find the right spot.

The RevealPRO has an interesting combination of features. In this case, it’s a matter of where you can or can’t make compromises.

9. FLIR Scout TK Handheld Thermal Imaging Monocular

Brand	Brand FLIR
Resolution	Resolution 160 x 120 pixels
Sensitivity Range	Sensitivity Range -4 to 104 F (-20 to 40 C)
Thermal Sensitivity	Thermal Sensitivity 100 mK
Key Features	Key Features Monocular design is excellent for hunting or security applications
Best For	Best For Detecting body heat at a distance

×

FLIR Scout TK Compact Thermal Imaging Monocular

Amazon

$579.99 $649.00

Buy Now!

Admiral Lord Nelson famously saw no ships. If it was because it was dark, then he needed the FLIR Scout TK. This is yet another way of using infrared sensors. This time it is with a monocular-style telescope.

This thermal camera is designed for a different purpose. This is not your tool if you’re looking for a central heating leak.

But it might be good if you’re a hunter looking for animals in the dark. It has a relatively low sensitivity range. So it’s aimed at highlighting body heat against a colder target.

The Scout TK can spot warm-blooded creatures up to 262 ft (80 m) away, even in total darkness. It’s real James Bond stuff! But it’s an expensive toy unless you have a real reason for this capability. But it does this well.

10. Seek Thermal ShotPRO Handheld Thermal Imaging Camera

Brand	Brand Seek Thermal
Resolution	Resolution 320 x 240 pixels
Sensitivity Range	Sensitivity Range -40 to 626 F (-40 to 330 C)
Thermal Sensitivity	Thermal Sensitivity 70 mK
Key Features	Key Features Live sharing of images via Wi-Fi, 4 GB storage
Best For	Best For Sharing hotspot images with others

×

Seek Thermal ShotPRO Thermal Image Camera

Amazon

$666.74

Buy Now!

With 4 GB internal storage and 4-hour battery life, the Seek Thermal ShotPro is aimed at serious users. It also has the Thermal company’s equivalent of FLIR’s MSX.

Thermal calls it SeekFusion Technology, and it offers similar performance. An on-screen slider lets you adjust the blend of available and IR light in any image.

This thermal imaging device is shaped more like a compact camera than other infrared ones. It has a camera-like handgrip on the right-hand side. And it has a tripod mount for stable fixing.

If you need to share the images you are seeing, you can stream from the ShotPro via its built-in Wi-Fi. And it’s rated at IP54 for bad weather use. So it’s a good choice for tradespeople who need a reliable thermal imaging camera.

11. BOSCH GTC400C Thermal Camera

Brand	Brand BOSCH
Resolution	Resolution 160 x 120 pixels
Sensitivity Range	Sensitivity Range 14 to 752 F (-40 to 400 C)
Thermal Sensitivity	Thermal Sensitivity 50 mK
Key Features	Key Features Flexible power options using Bosch Li-ion battery packs or AA cells
Best For	Best For Professionals needing consistent reliability

×

BOSCH GTC400C Thermal Image Camera

Amazon

$914.99 $1,299.00

Buy Now!

Before we look at this BOSCH GTC400C in detail, it is worth noting one thing. So far, the prices of the IR cameras in this review have increased incrementally. Now, they soar. This Bosch is about twice the price of the previous camera!

This machine is for pros who recognize and value Bosch’s rep for reliability and quality. So what do you get for this money?

First of all, Bosch uses its own rechargeable 12-volt Li-ion batteries. This means that a tradesperson might already have the charger and spare batteries. If the 4-hour battery life isn’t enough, you can resort to 4 AA batteries as a backup.

The GTC400C offers visible light and IR images which can be overlaid for clarity. And data can be transferred via Wi-Fi or USB. Plus, images can be shared and viewed on smartphones or computers.

12. FLIR MR277 Thermal Imaging Camera

Brand	Brand FLIR
Resolution	Resolution 160 x 120 pixels
Sensitivity Range	Sensitivity Range 32 to 122 F (0 to 50 C)
Thermal Sensitivity	Thermal Sensitivity 150 mK
Key Features	Key Features MSX, moisture and humidity sensors, 8-hour battery
Best For	Best For Building inspectors exploring structural problems

×

FLIR MR277 Moisture Meter, IR Camera and Hygrometer

Amazon

$1,579.00

Buy Now!

The basic specs of the FLIR MR277 might not seem that impressive. After all, it is a little more expensive than the Bosch. But it does have some extra tricks up its thermal sleeves.

Ordinary thermal imaging cameras can show you where damp spots might be. This relies not just on temperature differences but on the effect moisture has. An area of dampness is cooler because of evaporative cooling. But this is not infallible.

An area might be cooler because there is excess heat elsewhere. So thermal imaging cameras on their own might not be good enough.

This is where the MR277 comes in. It doesn’t just measure infrared radiation. It has smart sensors to detect humidity and moisture. And it also has moisture sensors for invasive and non-invasive dampness detection.

FLIR combines this with eight-hour battery life and MSX imaging capabilities. This gives you a versatile workhorse for a building tradesperson.

13. FLIR E8-XT Infrared Camera

Brand	Brand FLIR
Resolution	Resolution 320 x 240 pixels
Sensitivity Range	Sensitivity Range -4 to 1022 F (-20 to 550 C)
Thermal Sensitivity	Thermal Sensitivity 50 mK
Key Features	Key Features Very high maximum temperature sensitivity
Best For	Best For Professionals needing its high heat capability

×

FLIR E8-XT Infrared Camera

Amazon

$3,030.84

Buy Now!

The FLIR E8-XT is our final FLIR and our final camera. And it’s another doubling of cost. Even priced over $3,000, this is not in the heavy-hitter league of thermal imaging cameras. The most notable feature of the FLIR E8-XT is the top end of its sensitivity.

At 1022 F (550 C), this is clearly aimed at professionals who need to work with very high temperatures. People in this market need specific features. And they are willing to pay for what they need because it is essential for their work.

Perhaps the most interesting thing about this camera? How little it differs from the cheaper ones. That’s not to say it isn’t worth the money. It is to say how well-equipped even some of the cheapest thermal imaging cameras are.

Buying Guide for Thermal Cameras

Here are some answers to a few FAQs. We hope they help you in your buying decision.

How Do I Choose a Thermal Imaging Camera?

Thermal cameras are used to detect and visualize thermal radiation. This is emitted by all objects based on their temperature. Thermal cameras are often used in industrial and engineering applications. But they have become more popular for personal use in recent years.

Thermal cameras come in a variety of shapes and sizes. There are small handheld cameras to large-format ones you can mount on drones.

There are many factors you should consider when purchasing a thermal camera. These include the resolution, spectral range, and image processing capabilities.

How Does a Thermal Imaging Camera Work?

Light is one tiny segment of the electromagnetic spectrum. Imagine visible light as one octave on a piano. And the whole electromagnetic spectrum would stretch from Earth to the Sun. Thermal imaging cameras work by “seeing” the infrared (IR) section of that spectrum.

Heat produces IR. And a thermal imaging camera uses this infrared radiation to tell you how hot something is. Like a normal camera, a thermal imaging camera has a lens and a sensor. In this case, those sensors detect IR radiation.

Like a conventional camera, they present that information on a screen and save it to a memory device. You can then see the various temperatures of everything displayed in the image.

What Are the Important Features of a Thermal Camera?

These are the key features to look out for when buying thermal imaging cameras:

• Resolution: Like a normal digital camera, this is how many pixels there are. Pixel count isn’t nearly as crucial as it is in digital photography. You don’t need to see the pattern on your brickwork. You just want to know how warm it is. So the best thermal cameras have better resolution than cheaper ones. It just might not be as crucial as we are used to.
• Sensitivity Range: This is the scope of max and minimum temperatures the thermal cameras can “see.” Our review’s cheapest camera is very sensitive. The PerfectPrime IR202 range is -40 F to 752 F (-40 to 400 C). The extreme ranges are cold enough for most and hotter than your pizza oven. But it’s not quite hot enough for the fire brigade!
• Thermal Sensitivity: This is the smallest detectable temperature difference between two measurement points. Thermal sensitivity is measured with the cutest measurement unit in science. It is the milli-Kelvin (mK). Again, using our list’s cheapest camera as an example, it has 150 mK sensitivity. That means every pixel can tell the temperature difference between areas—of as little as 0.15 C! The lower the number, the more sensitive the sensor. But 150 mK is way more than sufficient to find where heat is escaping.
• A Visible Light Camera: This helps us see conventional and infrared images. After an illness and eye surgery, Claude Monet could see IR light. But we can’t. So overlaying the IR images on a normal photo helps us see where the hotspots are.
• Style: You either have it, or you don’t! But here, I’m referring to the body that houses the thermal imaging camera. Some camera bodies are like barcode scanners. And others are like small, chunky mobile phones. And speaking of mobile phones, some attach via the USB or Lightning port on the base of your phone.
• Screen Resolution: Does the thermal imaging camera use your phone? Then the screen resolution will be good. Otherwise, check the camera itself so it won’t disappoint.

Conclusion: Best Thermal Cameras

The best thermal camera is the PerfectPrime IR202. This is due to its advanced features, easy-to-use design, and affordability. This camera offers a reliable and accurate way to detect temperature differences. And is perfect for both professional and amateur use.

Its USB-C connection allows for quick transfer of data. And its lightweight design makes it easy to transport. It’s the best choice for a reliable and accurate thermal camera.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Thermal Camera

TOPDON TC002 Thermal Imaging Camera

TOPDON TC002 Thermal Imaging Camera

PerfectPrime IR202 Thermal Image Camera

PerfectPrime IR202 Thermal Image Camera

FLIR ONE Gen 3 Thermal Camera

FLIR ONE Gen 3 Thermal Camera

They might need it for a high school photography course. Perhaps you’re a teacher looking for recommendations for your students. Something that offers them more manual control of exposure than their phones do.

It’s tough to pick the best camera here. All of them are great, and some, like the action cams, have a specific use. For an overall winner, though, we’ve chosen a camera that oozes style, the Nikon Z fc. It has great picture quality and is perfect for learning photography.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Cameras For Teens

Nikon Z fc

Nikon Z fc

GoPro Hero10 Black

GoPro Hero10 Black

DJI Action 2

DJI Action 2

What Are the Best Cameras for Teens?

Before we discuss each camera in detail, here’s a summary of our recommendations.

Our Top Choice

Nikon Z fc

Nikon Z fc

• Fabulous retro looks
• Easy-to-use controls for beginners
• 4K video
• Weather-sealed body

Best for Action Video

GoPro Hero11 Black

GoPro Hero11 Black

• Amazing time-lapse and hyper-lapse video
• Hypersmooth and horizon levelling look incredible
• Waterproof to 33 feet without housing
• Video up to 5.3K

Best Overall Action Camera

DJI Action 2

DJI Action 2

• Unique modular design
• Waterproof to 33 feet without housing
• Up to 8x slow motion
• Magnetic mounting options

Best for Underwater Photography

Ricoh WG-6

Ricoh WG-6

• Focuses as close as 1 cm
• Built-in ring light for macro
• Tough waterproof body
• Action cam capabilities with compact camera usability

Best Allrounder

Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX10 / LX15

Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX10 / LX15

• Excellent 1-inch sensor
• Leica lens gives great sharpness
• Built-in image stabilization
• Fast maximum f/1.4 aperture

Best Budget Option

Nikon Coolpix B500

Nikon Coolpix B500

• Impressive 40x zoom lens
• Great value
• Optical image stabilization
• Nikon app for easy sharing

Best Budget Mirroless

Canon EOS R100

Canon EOS R100

• No-nonsense simplicity
• 24 MP sensor
• Burst speed of 15 fps
• Superb AF with 651 focus points

Best for Low Light

Panasonic Lumix FZ300 / FZ330

Panasonic Lumix FZ300 / FZ330

• Lens stabilization
• Fast constant f/2.8 maximum aperture
• 4K video
• Great value for money

Best for Video

Panasonic Lumix GX85 (GX80)

Panasonic Lumix GX85 (GX80)

• Impressive face-detection autofocus
• In-body 5-axis stabilization
• Focus tracking via touchscreen
• 4K video

Best Compact Camera

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III

• Excellent high dynamic range
• Great for live streaming
• Tilting touchscreen
• Fast burst shooting mode

Best for Street Photography

Ricoh GR III

Ricoh GR III

• 24 MP sensor
• Maximum ISO fo 102,400
• In-body stabilization
• Built-in neutral density filters

Best for Aspiring Photographers

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

• Compact, stylish body
• Well-positioned controls for learning photography
• In-body stabilization
• Excellent range of lenses available

Now, starting with our top overall pick, let’s look at the cameras in a little more detail.

1. Nikon Zfc

Brand	Brand Nikon
Megapixels	Megapixels 21 MP
Video	Video
Sensor Format	Sensor Format APS-C
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Nikon Z
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization No
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 209
Minimum ISO	Minimum ISO 100
Maximum ISO	Maximum ISO 51,200
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 11 fps
Screen Size	Screen Size 3-inch
Best For	Best For Teens interested in learning the elements of exposure

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Nikon Z fc

Amazon

$1,096.95

Buy Now!

Focus Camera

$1,206.90

Buy Now!

Your teenager will love the retro cool of this Nikon Z fc. It looks like it belongs around the neck of an Instagram influencer. Its brushed metal and faux-leatherette finish is actually weather sealed to protect the very non-retro insides.

There’s a 21 MP APS-C sensor and Nikon’s Z-mount for lenses. The old-school knobs are a triumph of style and function. They provide easy control of the elements of exposure. By doing this, they make it easy for your teen to learn and experiment. Of course, every level of automation is also possible.

The impressive list of specifications includes a burst rate of 11 fps, 4K video, and the whole array of Nikon Z-mount lenses. They can even access the plethora of cheap second-hand F-mount lenses with an adapter. But nothing is quite as cool as the equally retro Nikon Z DX 16-50mm lens, complete with image stabilization.

It’s easy to fall in love with this Nikon, and it’s a great choice for a teenager stepping into photography.

2. GoPro HERO10 Black

Brand	Brand GoPro
Megapixels	Megapixels 23 MP
Video	Video
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1/1.7-inch
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Compact
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization Yes
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 1
Minimum ISO	Minimum ISO 100
Maximum ISO	Maximum ISO 6,400
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 30 fps
Screen Size	Screen Size 2.3-inch
Best For	Best For Shooting amazing action video

×

GoPro Hero10 Black

Amazon

$2.99

Buy Now!

Adorama

$399.00

Buy Now!

KEH

(second hand)

$332.79

Buy Now!

If you want a camera that can go pretty much anywhere, the GoPro HERO10 Black is a great choice. Known for its action cam credentials, the HERO10 packs a load of features into a very small package. It is small enough to fit in your pocket and tough enough to withstand swimming and diving. Although the HERO12 is here now, the HERO10 is still worth a look.

The HERO10 is great if you want a digital camera that will capture lots of action. The stabilization is second to none, and teenagers will love the slow-motion recording. It has a front-facing screen, which is great for vlogging and selfies.

The GoPro Hero10 Black isn’t great for bringing the action to you. It has a fixed focus, fixed aperture, and a fixed-focal-length lens. This makes shooting action scenes quick and simple. But you have to be close to that action. This is perfect for its intended use. But this is not the best camera for your teen if they want to shoot a football game or take portraits.

3. DJI Action 2

Brand	Brand DJI
Megapixels	Megapixels 12 MP
Video	Video
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1/1.7-inch
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Compact
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization Yes
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 1
Minimum ISO	Minimum ISO 100
Maximum ISO	Maximum ISO 6,400
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 30 fps
Screen Size	Screen Size 1.76-inch
Best For	Best For Every kind of action photography

×

DJI Action 2

Amazon

$517.00 $547.00

Buy Now!

The DJI Action 2 is not as familiar-looking as a GoPro (the DJI Action 4 is much more familiar-looking). But it has some innovative features that make it an interesting choice as a digital camera for teens. It does not have as strong a set of features as the HERO10, but it is cheaper (depending on the configuration).

The Action 2 uses magnets to clip the modules together. They also allow a range of mounting options. It will deliver better-than-HD video recording and has up to 4x slow motion.

The DJI Action 2 shares some shortcomings with the GoPro. You have to go to the action—the 12.7mm lens won’t bring it to you. It doesn’t have the same almost endless range of accessories available. The GoPro mounting system has been around for so long that an entire industry has developed supplying mounts and accessories. Finally, its still photo resolution of 12 MP is limited.

But it is a great compact camera with some innovative features.

4. Ricoh WG-6

Brand	Brand Ricoh
Megapixels	Megapixels 20 MP
Video	Video
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1/2.3-inch
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Compact
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization Yes
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 9
Minimum ISO	Minimum ISO 125
Maximum ISO	Maximum ISO 6,400
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 34.7 fps
Screen Size	Screen Size 3-inch
Best For	Best For Underwater photography

×

Ricoh WG-6

Amazon

$329.99 $379.95

Buy Now!

Focus Camera

$346.95 $396.95

Buy Now!

Adorama

$346.95

Buy Now!

The Ricoh WG-6 is a great bridge camera between an all-out action camera and a more conventional compact camera. The specifications say it will survive a 6.5-foot (2 m) drop onto a hard surface. And it actually outperforms the GoPro for out-of-the-box waterproof capability.

The Ricoh is also a better choice if you want to photograph people being inactive. Its 28-140mm lens encompasses a decent wide-angle and a moderate telephoto. In the middle, you have the perfect focal length for portrait photos. The integrated ring light is great for vlogging and selfies. And the screen is much bigger than a normal action camera.

The f/3.5 lens means that the Ricoh WG-6 struggles in low light. The ring light often compensates for this. But it can be slow to respond to the shutter button.

This is a great compact camera that easily fits in a pocket or backpack and will survive some rough treatment.

5. Panasonic Lumix DMC LX-10

Brand	Brand Panasonic
Megapixels	Megapixels 20 MP
Video	Video
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1-inch
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Compact
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization Yes
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 49
Minimum ISO	Minimum ISO 125
Maximum ISO	Maximum ISO 12,800
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 10 fps
Screen Size	Screen Size 3-inch
Best For	Best For Teens looking for high-quality, low-light photos

×

Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX10 / LX15

B&H

$497.99 $600.45

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Amazon

$777.00

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Two things strike me about the Panasonic Lumix DMC LX-10. First is the remarkable 1/16,000 of a second shutter speed. The second is the Leica lens. This has a limited optical zoom range from 24-70mm. But at its widest, it boasts a maximum aperture of f/1.4. This puts whole new worlds of photographic possibilities at your teenager’s fingertips.

The articulating screen allows you to see the image from in front of the camera. This is great for vlogging and other video activities. A control ring around the lens adds to the camera’s serious “feel” and performance.

All of this is in a well-made and compact body. This is a real contender for the title of the best camera for teens.

6. Nikon COOLPIX B500

Brand	Brand Nikon
Megapixels	Megapixels 16 MP
Video	Video
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1.2/3-inch
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Compact
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization Yes
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 1
Minimum ISO	Minimum ISO 80
Maximum ISO	Maximum ISO 3200
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 7 fps
Screen Size	Screen Size 3-inch
Best For	Best For Sports or wildlife photography on the go

×

Nikon Coolpix B500

Amazon

$189.00

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B&H

$346.95

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The Nikon Coolpix B500 looks like a mini DSLR. It has a familiar shape with a lump above the lens and a grip on the right-hand side. This houses the shutter button. The lump above the lens is home to the pop-up flash. Like a DSLR, it has continuous shooting capability. In this case, up to 7.4 frames per second.

The standout feature of the B500 is the optical zoom lens. At both ends of the scale, it goes beyond what the average hobby photographer has. The 22.5mm wide-angle lens gives impressively wide coverage.

And the 900mm telephoto is in the realm of ultra-specialist sports and wildlife photography. You’ll need both the IS and the tripod mount if you do much shooting at that length. The downside of all that range is in the aperture. The absolute maximum of f/3 is quite slow.

You’ll only find the Nikon Coolpix B500 as renewed or second-hand. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t put it on your shortlist. It’s great value for money.

7. Canon EOS R100

Brand	Brand Canon
Megapixels	Megapixels 24 MP
Video	Video
Sensor Format	Sensor Format APS-C
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon RF
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization No
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 651
Minimum ISO	Minimum ISO 100
Maximum ISO	Maximum ISO 32,000
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 15 fps
Screen Size	Screen Size 3-inch
Best For	Best For Teens interested in learning photography with a DSLR

×

Canon EOS R100

Adorama

$299.00

Buy Now!

Amazon

$399.00 $599.99

Buy Now!

Amazon.co.uk

$415.00 $669.99

Buy Now!

Amazon.it

$484.44 $739.99

Buy Now!

Amazon.de

$499.99 $699.00

Buy Now!

Amazon.es

$538.99 $699.00

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Amazon.ca

$599.99

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Amazon.sa

$3,025.88

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Our choice of the Canon EOS R100 RF-RF-S18-45mm mirrorless camera is a sure sign that times are changing. Our previous recommendation here was the EOS Rebel T100, an APS-C DSLR. But mirrorless is not just here to stay, it is the future.

A quick look at the specs helps us to understand why. Instead of the Rebel’s 9 AF points, we have 651! Gone is the 3 fps drive, which is now a very respectable 15 fps! So we have a massively capable camera with all the controls your teen might need to learn photography skills.

Because the viewfinder is electronic, they will see the effect of the changes they make in real-time. There’s no need to take the picture and then see the outcome. And the AF works across the whole frame and is inherently fast as the system reads straight from the sensor.

The Canon EOS R100 RF-RF-S18-45mm mirrorless camera is a perfect entry into interchangeable lens cameras from the world-leading brand.

8. Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300

Brand	Brand Panasonic
Megapixels	Megapixels 12 MP
Video	Video
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1.2/3-inch
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Compact
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization Yes
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 1
Minimum ISO	Minimum ISO 100
Maximum ISO	Maximum ISO 6,400
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 12 fps
Screen Size	Screen Size 3-inch
Best For	Best For Wildlife photography at a distance

×

Panasonic Lumix FZ300 / FZ330

B&H

$447.99 $497.99

Buy Now!

Amazon

$532.22 $597.99

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Adorama

$534.99

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A Leica lens with constant f/2.8 from 25 to 600mm. That is something to make you sit up and take notice. The f/2.8 aperture at 600mm is an amazing achievement. Add to this the technical wizardry that Panasonic uses to bring 4K frame rates to still photography.

It means you have a potential class leader. 8 MP stills are possible at 30 fps. There is also a feature found on better action cameras. The camera records stills at 30 fps for one second before and after you press the shutter button. This is impressive stuff.

The Panasonic FZ300 is a great choice for teens interested in action photography and looking to learn the craft. It has a full range of manual controls and semi-automatic operation.

9. Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85

Brand	Brand Panasonic
Megapixels	Megapixels 16 MP
Video	Video
Sensor Format	Sensor Format Micro Four Thirds
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Micro 4/3
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization Yes
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 1
Minimum ISO	Minimum ISO 100
Maximum ISO	Maximum ISO 25,600
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 8 fps
Screen Size	Screen Size 3-inch
Best For	Best For Teens who want a compact camera with interchangeable lenses

×

Panasonic Lumix GX85 (GX80)

Amazon.it

$526.99

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Amazon.fr

$529.00 $545.99

Buy Now!

Amazon.nl

$544.38

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Adorama

$647.99

Buy Now!

Amazon

$647.99 $799.99

Buy Now!

Focus Camera

$647.99 $797.99

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Amazon.ca

$986.42

Buy Now!

Amazon.com.au

$1,104.89

Buy Now!

Amazon.sa

$3,097.11

Buy Now!

Amazon.se

$5,560.05

Buy Now!

KEH

(second hand)

$364.68

Buy Now!

The Lumix DMC-GX85 is a great introduction to the world of mirrorless cameras. This kit comes with two lenses, giving a great range of focal lengths. The Lumix also uses a very sophisticated IS system, making it an attractive choice for video and stills.

Combine the IS and the maximum ISO of 25,600, and you have a great camera that can shoot in low light and challenging circumstances. This is one of the best digital cameras as an entry point to serious photography for any teenager.

10. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III

Brand	Brand Canon
Megapixels	Megapixels 20 MP
Video	Video
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1-inch
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Compact
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization Yes
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 31
Minimum ISO	Minimum ISO 125
Maximum ISO	Maximum ISO 12,800
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 30 fps
Screen Size	Screen Size 3-inch
Best For	Best For Teens looking for a pocketable camera with fast shooting capabilities

×

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III

B&H

$749.00

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Amazon

$1,374.95

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The Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III is reasonably priced, and it outperforms anything your teen has by way of a smartphone camera.

The 1-inch CMOS sensor is bigger and more sensitive than many other cameras on this list. That means that the 20.1 MP sensor will give you better image quality.

The PowerShot G7X is also notable for its low-light capabilities. It has an ISO range from 125 to 12,800, which is impressive for a compact camera. There is also an impressive continuous shooting speed of 20 fps. This burst mode is ideal for sports and other action photography.

The LCD touchscreen and electronic viewfinder tilt 180 degrees. This allows you to take photos at awkward angles. And it means selfies are a breeze, either photos or using the 4K video.

To round off the teen-appealing features, there’s the capable zoom lens and image stabilization to keep the video and pictures steady.

11. Ricoh GR III

Brand	Brand Ricoh
Megapixels	Megapixels 24 MP
Video	Video
Sensor Format	Sensor Format APS-C
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Compact
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization Yes
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 1
Minimum ISO	Minimum ISO 100
Maximum ISO	Maximum ISO 102,400
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 4 fps
Screen Size	Screen Size 3-inch
Best For	Best For Teens who want a compact, capable camera to take anywhere

×

Ricoh GR III

Adorama

$759.00

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Amazon

$1,159.95

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KEH

(second hand)

$765.04

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The Ricoh GR III styling provides a compact and stylish body. It has intuitive and clear controls for all the important functions. And the images it produces are excellent.

It has a leaf shutter. This means you can choose any shutter speed if you use an external flash. But it doesn’t have a built-in flash. If there is too much light, the GR III has two neutral density filters built in. This is a less common but potentially very useful feature.

Autofocus is excellent. The AF points cover the whole sensor. You can also preselect a “snap focus” point. It’s a step up from being at the mercy of the AF system or switching to manual.

It’s a great choice if your teenager wants simplicity, portability, and great pictures. We have a review of the Ricoh GR III, and you can read it here.

12. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Brand	Brand Olympus
Megapixels	Megapixels 20 MP
Video	Video
Sensor Format	Sensor Format Micro Four Thirds
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Micro 4/3
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization Yes
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 121
Minimum ISO	Minimum ISO 200
Maximum ISO	Maximum ISO 25,600
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 15 fps
Screen Size	Screen Size 3-inch
Best For	Best For Aspiring photographers looking for great image quality

×

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Adorama

$599.00

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Amazon

$659.95 $699.99

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B&H

$699.99

Buy Now!

Focus Camera

$799.99

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The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV seems to win friends all the time. It’s a mirrorless body, and the Micro Four Thirds sensor makes it light and compact. That’s why it’s great for a traveling teen with limited space in their backpack.

Despite its small size, the OM-10 is highly capable. There is even in-body stabilization to prevent camera shake, especially at slower shutter speeds. The IS will also help with video, and this is available in 4K. Given the price point, this is impressive.

It’s a great mirrorless camera for your teenager, especially if they’re looking for something simple but with the potential for more complex work. We have a review of the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV, which you can read here.

What Features Should I Look for in a Digital Camera for Teens?

These cameras are all capable of video recording as well as shooting stills. There are a few things to bear in mind. These mainly relate to the image quality of the photos and videos and the connectivity of the digital camera.

For the hobby photographer, these features also relate to the room for growth. Will beginner photographers be able to develop their skills, knowledge, and understanding? And even if they don’t want to be the next Annie Leibowitz, will they still use it as a hobby photographer?

Look for the sensor resolution of the camera. This will be given as a number followed by MP (megapixels). As a rule of thumb, the bigger the number, the more detail there will be in the photograph.

Video quality also depends on pixels. You will find this stated as how many pixels there are on the vertical edge of the image. Full HD video recording needs at least 1080, so you’ll see “1080p.” One step down is 740p. One step up is described as 4K. In general, get the highest resolution you can afford.

Every camera on this list will be straightforward to use. It will cope well with mixed lighting conditions. If a camera excels in one of these areas, that will get a special mention.

Buyer’s Guide—The Best Cameras for Teens

Should I Choose an Interchangeable Lens Camera?

This all depends on what your teen wants to do with it. Obviously, an action cam will be a fixed-lens camera. And compact cameras like the Nikon Coolpix B500 have incredible zoom lenses. For most people, that is more than enough.

But if you want the flexibility to move on to a stable of lenses, usually with better maximum apertures, then an interchangeable system is the way to go.

How Important Is Sensor Size?

Confusingly, we talk about sensor size both in terms of pixels and physical dimensions. The physical size of sensors on these cameras varies, with APS-C being the biggest. These are roughly 2/3 the size of a full-frame camera’s sensor. 

But that has no direct relation to sensor size in pixels. Canon’s first professional full-frame DSLR had a 10 MP sensor. And many camera phones, with a sensor 35 times smaller than that, have 48 MP or more. In general, more pixels are better. But it’s not a strict relationship. All of these cameras will match an entry-level film SLR of years gone by.

What Else Should I Think About?

Think carefully about what purpose your teen has for a camera. Do they need something discreet for candid street photography? Or is travel photography their thing? Or perhaps, they want to understand the secrets of exposure and need something with lots of manual control.

Whichever it is, you’ll find a good solution here in this review.

Conclusion

If you want a rugged, go-anywhere camera for a teenager, the GoPro HERO10 Black is a great choice. It is very capable, and it has a certain coolness to it that makes it popular. It is still one of the best cameras on the market.

For a lightweight, pocketable digital camera with great features, I would opt for the Panasonic Lumix DMC LX-10. I like it for its range of features—especially the Leica lens.

But for an overall winner, it’s the utterly charming retro Nikon Z fc.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Cameras For Teens

Nikon Z fc

Nikon Z fc

GoPro Hero10 Black

GoPro Hero10 Black

DJI Action 2

DJI Action 2

Maybe you’re looking to take professional baby photographs. Or perhaps you are looking for the best camera as a new parent… We have selected the Nikon D5600 as the best camera for newborn photography. This is thanks to an effective sensor, fantastic autofocus, and a solid ISO range.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Camera For Newborn Photography

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D

Fujifilm X-T30 II

Fujifilm X-T30 II

Nikon Z6 II

Nikon Z6 II

The Best Camera for Newborn Photography

Here are our top choices of the best cameras for newborn photography. Below the table, you will find an in-depth look at each camera option. Then you can read our helpful guide on points to consider when photographing babies.

Our Top Choice

Nikon D5600

Nikon D5600

• Very high 24.2 MP resolution for a crop sensor
• Fast and reliable autofocus system with 39 focus points
• Great ISO sensitivity for low light
• Small in size and ergonomic

Best Canon DSLR

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D

• Ver high 24 MP resolution for a crop sensor
• Autofocus automatically detects your subjects eyes
• Excellent ISO range and great in low-light situations
• 4K video and 120 fps Full HD

Best for Pros

Sony a7 IV

Sony a7 IV

• Incredible image resolution
• Fast and reliable autofocus system
• 5.5 stops of image stabilization
• Powerful video abilities, 4K at 60 fps

Most Stylish

Fujifilm X-T30 II

Fujifilm X-T30 II

• Affordable camera for its abilities
• Achieves up to 30 fps continuous shooting
• Compact and light
• Great selection of lenses
• Stylish design

Best Nikon Mirrorless

Nikon Z6 II

Nikon Z6 II

• Autofocus works amazingly in low-light conditions
• Lightweight and portable
• Excellent dynamic range in low-light environments
• Dual memory card slots

Best Canon Mirrorless

Canon EOS R

Canon EOS R

• Incredible autofocus system that you can trust
• ISO range performs well at both ends of the scale
• Light and ergonomic body
• Responsive and articulating touchscreen

Best Compact Choice

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II

• Compact camera that can capture RAW images
• Fast and accurate autofocus system
• Optical image stabilization
• Includes a wide aperture and long zoom
• Wi-Fi connectivity

1. Nikon D5600

Sensor Format	Sensor Format APS-C
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Nikon F DX
Megapixels	Megapixels 24.2 MP
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 39
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 25,600
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 5 fps
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Video	Video
Best For	Best For Parents or amateurs looking to get into photography

×

Nikon D5600

B&H

$799.95

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Amazon

$799.95

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KEH

(second hand)

$525.26

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You don’t have to deplete diaper funds for a camera that captures good newborn pictures. It’s not a top-of-the-range performer like the Sony a7 IV. But the Nikon D5600 is the best camera for newborn photography. That’s due to its portable size, ease of use, and professional controls.

The Nikon D5600 sports a 24.2 MP APS-C sensor. This isn’t quite as good as a full frame, but it still packs plenty of capabilities.

The sensor captures solid photos for the price point. And unbiased, third-party DxOMark testers still consider the camera a top performer. The EXPEED 4 processor is still decent at capturing images in low light. That’s especially the case if you pair the camera with a bright lens.

Speed-wise, the D5600 snaps away at 5 fps. It is not enough to be hailed as a great sports camera. But it still does the trick for toddlers and older kids in motion. The 39-point autofocus is decent. It’s the type of autofocus that’s long been fine-tuned inside DSLRs.

The camera also uses a tilting touchscreen, unlike the slightly cheaper Nikon D3500. This can help you get fun photos at high and low angles. It often works well when you photograph babies and kids.

As a DSLR, it’s a bit louder than a mirrorless camera‘s silent mode. It doesn’t have image stabilization in the body. And it isn’t the best camera on this list and isn’t ideal for professionals. But it is one of the best cameras you can get on a limited budget.

For new parents, the Nikon D5600 should be on their shopping list. It helps capture those fleeting memories of the newborn stage and beyond. And it won’t break the bank!

2. Canon Rebel T8i

Sensor Format	Sensor Format APS-C
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon EF/EF-S
Megapixels	Megapixels 24 MP
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 45
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 25,600
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 7.5 fps
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Video	Video
Best For	Best For Parents or amateurs looking to get into photography, who like Canon

×

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D

B&H

$899.00

Buy Now!

KEH

(second hand)

$709.95

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The Rebel T8i (850D) is a fantastic, cheap DSLR option from Canon. Its 24 MP sensor produces high-quality images. It’s almost the same resolution as our number one option. Maybe you have a lower-end Canon camera or can get hold of some lenses for cheap. Then this could be the option for you.

You have 45 autofocus points to select from. That’s slightly more than the Nikon D5600. So this may be the better camera to choose if you prefer having the option of more focus points.

The Canon Rebel T8i also has a continuous shooting speed of 7.5 fps. Newborn photography won’t benefit too much from a fast frame rate. But it helps once the little ones are grown up!

One of the best points about this camera is that it is compact and lightweight. This means you can take endless pictures without having your arms tire.

It is also worth noting that a newborn may be afraid of a huge piece of equipment in their face. And a small camera like the Canon Rebel T8i reduces the scare factor by a large amount.

3. Sony a7 IV

Sensor Format	Sensor Format Full Frame
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Sony E
Megapixels	Megapixels 33 MP
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 759
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 51,200
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 10 fps
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Video	Video
Best For	Best For Professionals or parents with unlimited budgets

×

Sony a7 IV

B&H

$2,498.00

Buy Now!

Amazon

$2,498.00

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KEH

(second hand)

$79.00

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The Sony a7 IV is a highly-rated mirrorless camera. It packs all the features professional newborn photographers should look for. DxOMark testing shows it is an excellent low-light performer. And the camera scores high for less noise at high ISOs.

The full frame sensor means the camera isn’t a budget model. And as a mirrorless camera, it is lighter than many DSLRs. Plus, it has a silent shutter mode to not disturb sleeping babies.

And it’s also for photographers looking to photograph kids beyond the newborn stage. The a7 IV packs a solid 10 fps burst speed with a quick autofocus system. It’s a great investment for parents who want a camera that performs well when that newborn is a toddler.

The biggest downside? The battery life has improved from older models. But it doesn’t come close to a DSLR’s long battery life.

Still, the a7 IV will last through a newborn session and capture high-quality images. It is an excellent all-around performer for photographers who shoot in several genres.

Perhaps you like the features but can’t afford the price tag? Then you can also look at older versions of the camera, like the a7 III or the original a7.

4. Fujifilm X-T30 II

Sensor Format	Sensor Format APS-C
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Fujifilm X
Megapixels	Megapixels 26 MP
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 425
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 12,800
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 30 fps
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Video	Video
Best For	Best For Photographers who want a simple camera with a stylish body

×

Fujifilm X-T30 II

Focus Camera

$899.00

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Adorama

$899.00

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Amazon

$939.00

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Photographers (and parents) don’t have to drop a huge amount on a camera to take good photos of a newborn. APS-C sensor cameras like the Fujifilm X-T30 II capture excellent newborn photos. And it’s at a lower price, just like our top options.

The Fujifilm X-T30 II sports a 26 MP APS-C sensor. That’s not as large as the full frame cameras on this list. But the Fujifilm brand is known for quality images from its X-Trans sensors.

An APS-C is still plenty big enough for newborn photography. And this camera will capture solid newborn portraits to last a lifetime.

The autofocus system has a whopping 425 points and is quick to focus. But there’s no image stabilization included in the body.

The burst mode is a respectable 8 fps, though. But you can push it up to 30 fps with the electronic shutter if you need more. The latter has a slight crop, but it’s quieter, too.

As a mirrorless camera, the X-30 is easy to carry around. It also has a tilting touchscreen to help capture the more hard-to-get angles. And many photographers also love Fujifilm for its retro look.

5. Nikon Z6 II

Sensor Format	Sensor Format Full Frame
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Nikon Z
Megapixels	Megapixels 24.5 MP
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 273
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 51,200
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 14 fps
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Video	Video
Best For	Best For Photographers who want up-to-date features and camera settings

×

Nikon Z6 II

Amazon

$1,596.95 $1,996.95

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B&H

$1,996.95

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Nikon is new to the full frame mirrorless category. While the Nikon Z6 II may not be as refined as Sony’s mirrorless generation, the new camera still packs a powerful punch.

The Z6 II uses a 24.5 MP full frame sensor that captures excellent images. The camera body also has stabilization built-in. If the baby isn’t moving around, this can help in those low-light shots.

As part of Nikon’s mirrorless series, the Z6 II can access many existing Nikon lenses using an FTZ adapter. This could be reason enough to choose the Z6 II for photographers who already own some Nikon glass.

Like most mirrorless cameras, there’s a silent electronic shutter for when the baby is sleeping. And the Z6 II has an even faster frame rate than the a7 IV with 12 fps. But that’s in an extended mode with a few limitations.

The Z6 II is lighter than Nikon DSLRs. But not by a lot if you use a heavier Z lens or when you add the mount adapter. And the tilting touchscreen can also help get the perfect angle without getting a step stool out.

Nikon also has a higher-resolution Z7 II. But the Z6 II autofocus is still rated well in low light. And the mid-range resolution is perfect for newborns. It also means the camera doesn’t cost quite so much.

6. Canon EOS R

Sensor Format	Sensor Format Full Frame
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon RF
Megapixels	Megapixels 30.3 MP
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 5,655
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 40,000
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 8 fps
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Video	Video
Best For	Best For Photographers who want a light and powerful camera

×

Canon EOS R

Amazon

$1,499.99 $1,799.00

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B&H

$1,799.00

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The Canon EOS R has the same 30 MP sensor as the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR. But it comes in a smaller package and at a lower price point.

The 30 MP sensor is a good mid-point for newborn photography. It’s not too high to introduce a lot of noise or make skin imperfections obvious. But it’s high enough for big prints and good detail.

There is a Canon EOS R lens adapter. So you can use it with Canon’s DSLR lenses. It’s a good option for photographers that may already have a stash of Canon lenses.

It has solid low-light performance. The Canon EOS R is one of the best Canon cameras for low light, according to DxOMark. They rank the image quality a bit below the first three cameras on this list.

The colors and dynamic range aren’t ranked quite as high as others in its class. But Canon’s Dual Pixel autofocus system is also highly praised. This should come in handy when shooting with window light only. And it helps capture those fast-moving toddlers later on.

The EOS R also offers a respectable 8 fps. So you can keep up with fast-moving toddlers and older children as well. And as a mirrorless camera, it is also equipped with a silent electronic shutter.

The Canon EOS R body sells for less than the Sony A7 III and Nikon Z 6. But The EOS R does not have image stabilization like those models. And it doesn’t score quite as high on sensor tests.

Other cameras may be better deals. But the compatibility with Canon lenses and Dual Pixel AF will sway some to buy the EOS R.

7. Canon PowerShot G7 X III

Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1"
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Fixed
Megapixels	Megapixels 20 MP
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 31
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 12,800
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 30 fps
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Video	Video
Best For	Best For Parents or amateurs who don't have time to learn manual controls

×

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III

B&H

$749.00

Buy Now!

Amazon

$1,374.95

Buy Now!

Maybe you don’t have the time to familiarize yourself with a DSLR or mirrorless camera. If so, a powerful point-and-shoot can take you far. It is also a great way to save money if you are looking for cheap options.

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III is a compact and lightweight camera. It fits in your pocket or baby bag with ease. And it has a much smaller sensor size than the rest of the cameras for newborn photography on this list. So it will give you a smaller dynamic range.

But even though it has a smaller sensor, you get a superb 20 MP from this small camera! There’s also a whopping 30 fps of continuous shooting to get the perfect shot. Plus, its in-body image stabilization and video make it the perfect all-in-one camera.

The PowerShot G7 X III makes it easy to grab your camera on the way out of the house daily.

Features of the Best Camera for Newborn Photography

If you’re on a budget, stick with a full frame camera or an APS-C camera. This lets you take advantage of the available light the most.

Camera Resolution

The best cameras for newborn photography have a decent resolution. A camera with a resolution that’s too low won’t allow parents to have large prints.

Your camera should have at least 12 MP (megapixels). But 20+ is even better. Many photographers have successfully used cameras with around 50 MP. But higher megapixel cameras may not handle high ISOs as well.

And the greater detail in higher megapixel cameras can emphasize the many imperfections very noticeable on newborn babies’ skin. And this leaves you with more post-processing work.

Frame Rate

Newborn photography is the closest the portrait genre gets to still life photography. That’s because newborns are often photographed sleeping. So you don’t need to spend a lot of cash for a crazy fast camera for newborns.

Sometimes fussy babies only offer a few seconds to get the shot. But most of the time, you have a few minutes after you get the baby in position. That means a fast camera, with a high burst speed like 10 fps, isn’t necessary.

But newborn photographers or parents also take photos of toddlers at some point. Or they may photograph a toddler with a brand-new sibling. That’s a different story.

Photographers specializing beyond just newborns may want a really good burst speed. Kids go from being slow-moving newborns to wild, won’t-sit-still toddlers in the blink of an eye!

High ISO for Low Light

Newborns are often photographed using natural window light. A flash can startle some newborns. So a good camera for newborn portraits should perform well at higher ISOs.

Look for a camera with excellent noise ratings for higher ISO levels. Indoor scenes often mean more than that base ISO 100.

Stabilization, Lenses, and Camera Noise

Image stabilizers in the lens or camera body will also boost low-light quality. It allows you to shoot at slower shutter speeds instead of increasing the ISO. This is only if the baby is very still.

Along the same lines, when you look for a lens to pair with your camera body, look for one with a wide aperture, like f/2.8. Permit yourself to skip those f/5.6 kit lenses often bundled with camera bodies.

A 35mm or 50mm f/1.8 is a great lens for newborn photography. Many good versions are also cheap.

Another consideration is how loud the camera will be. In most cases, newborn photographers play white noise. That drowns out the click of a shutter. In some instances, a quiet mode is an excellent feature to have. Many mirrorless cameras and some DSLRs have it.

Conclusion

Photographing newborns comes with a long list of challenges. You must get the baby settled, sleeping, and in that perfect position. Then you have to do it all over again for a new pose.

For newborn photography, look for a camera that performs well in window light. It should also have a mid-range resolution and a quiet shutter. Photographers should also look for a camera with a faster burst speed when introducing toddlers into the shot. This may be photos with siblings or with older children. 

The best camera for newborn photography doesn’t have to be a crazy fast $5,000 camera. We suggest the Nikon D5600 if you’re new to photography. It is an affordable investment for photos you will hold onto for the rest of your life!

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Camera For Newborn Photography

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D

Fujifilm X-T30 II

Fujifilm X-T30 II

Nikon Z6 II

Nikon Z6 II