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The role of a photojournalist is to document the true events, in all honesty, and showcase them to their viewers. Thus, in photojournalism, one’s personal opinions take a back seat, with objectivity being at the center of the creation. But while one works on multiple layers to photograph reality, they also must have reliable cameras that can help them every step of the way. So, we have collated a list of cameras whose performance never disappointed us. If you are looking for a new camera under $2500 for photojournalism, these options are as good as it can get.
Canon R5
The Canon EOS R5 boasts a 45MP full-frame CMOS sensor, 1,053 AF Areas, and DIGIC X processor with an ISO range of 100-51200 (expandable to 102,400). What makes this camera so ideal for photojournalism is the ability of subject tracking, 8-stops of shake correction, CFexpress and UHS-II SD cards, and WiFi. As a result, you get a reliable camera that can also send files really quickly to your agency. Of course, you get great image quality and plenty of lenses to choose from.
For this roundup, we’re choosing the original camera because the follow up isn’t really worth upgrading to in our opinion.
Sony A7 IV
A 33MP full-frame camera, the Sony a7 IV is packed with a BIONZ XR sensor, 759 phase-detection AF points, and Real-time Eye AF and tracking. The device also has 5 stops of image stabilisation, 828 continuous RAW+JPEG shooting, and can record 4K/30p videos. Some of the features we liked are the autofocus speed, tracking, and accuracy, as well as better dynamic range and weather sealing. “The a7 IV is a great hybrid camera with capabilities that will entice a variety of photographers and videographers,” as we stated in our review.
Fujifilm X-H2s
The Fujifilm X-H2s has been designed for fast-paced shooting, making it ideal for photojournalism. The camera boasts a 26MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 5 sensor, along with an X-Processor 5 engine. It can shoot a 40fps continuously and capture 140 uncompressed RAW frames. The X-H2s also has an AI-backed autofocus system, with 425 AF points and with sensitivity down to -7 EV. Other features include 4K videos at up to 120p, 14-stop dynamic range, and ISO between 160-12,800. Its low-light capabilities make it an all-around workhorse.
Nikon Z6 III
A 24MP full-frame camera, the Z6 III has EXPEED 7 processing that offers 493-point phase-detection autofocus points. It also includes 3D Tracking AF and Dynamic-Area AF modes, which allow you to photograph various subjects with ease. Other features include 6K/60p video record, ISO expandable up to 204,800, and continuous shooting up to 20fps. If you want a mini Z8, then this camera should be your choice.
Panasonic S5 II
The Panasonic Lumix S5 II is a 24.2MP full-frame camera ideal for hybrid photojournalism. It features dual image stabilization, a continuous shooting speed of up to 30 fps, and the ability to record stills in four formats: 65:24 and 2:1 panoramic, 1:1 square, and 16:9. In addition, it can record 6K/30p videos, has 779 phase-detection points, and has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. It is a great camera. “The Panasonic S5 II is for any photographer that didn’t get the Panasonic S5 and wants to upgrade to it,” we said in our tests. “If you’re an L-Mount camera user, I’d also consider it for video or the Live Composite feature.”
Nikon Zf
Last one on the list, the Nikon Zf is a suggestion by our Gear Editor, Feroz Khan, who is also a photojournalist. Khan uses the camera with a variety of lenses for his shoot, thanks to its host of features such as a 24.5MP FX-format BSI CMOS sensor, a burst shooting rate of 11 fps RAW and 14 fps JPEG, and UHD 4K/30p video recording capability. The camera has 273 phase-detection AF points, and it also features Subject Detection, Eye-Detection AF, and 3D tracking to give great autofocus performance. Its built-in 5-axis vibration reduction is ideal to reduce camera shake, especially when you pair it with zoom lenses. Last but not least are color, image quality, high ISO output, the retro aesthetic, and compact design, making it easy to carry around.
