This article covers a series of excellent cameras that will enhance your photo booth and take it to the next level.
I’ve spent most of my life working with both cameras and video equipment. Using that knowledge, I conducted ample research on photo booth cameras and then checked it against both first-hand accounts and my own detailed analysis.
The Canon EOS M50 is my pick for the best photo booth camera as a result of its stellar resolution and inherent adjustability.
Few photo booth cameras can match the M50’s versatility. It has a tilt LCD screen and also does a great job in both bright and darker settings. There are plenty of strong specs, a powerful sensor, and light construction that make it easy to handle.
There are plenty of other strong photo booth cameras too. In the below sections I break down the best ones by explaining their traits, as well as how those traits put them ahead of the pack.
Contents
Best Cameras for Photo Booth: Top Picks
In this section, I give my detailed review on what niches the best photo booth cameras fall into.
1. Canon EOS M50
- Best for: Overall
- Key Features: Dual pixel CMOS autofocus. Sharp camera with excellent color. High-resolution electronic viewfinder. 4k UHD 24p video. Lightweight build.
- Weight: 0.86 pounds
- Screen Size: 3 inches
- Video Capture Resolution: 2160p
Light and equipped with high resolution, the EOS M50 is a solid camera that works perfectly for any photo booth. That’s due to the fact that it comes with a great mix of range, color, and details. This model delivers vibrant shots regardless of what light you’re working with.
The other reason this gets such high marks is the versatile LCD touchscreen that has a great tilt range. Being able to capture multiple angles easily is a huge bonus when you want to get various types of shots. The 24.1MP CMOS sensor also compliments those impressive specs.
Everything about this camera delivers a better picture. However, the audio and battery life could both be a little stronger. If you’re looking for a strong photo option, however, the M50 is an affordable mirrorless option that frames and captures anything you need.
2. Sony DSCHX80/B
- Best for: Point and Shoot
- Key Features: Versatile shooting styles. 3-inch LCD multi-angle display. 30x optical zoom. 60x clear image zoom. Memory recall mode. Sharp autofocus.
- Weight:1.05 pounds
- Screen Size:3 inches
- Video Capture Resolution:1080p
While most of the top photo booth cameras are either DSLRs or mirrorless, this Sony offering is an excellent point and shoot that’s up to the task. It’s a strong item that, while pricier than most similar devices, shines through its multi-angle display and crystal clear resolution.
This is a solid option if simplicity is the name of the game. Most photo booths don’t require a ton of extra features. They just need good shots. This little camera does that in spades, giving you lock-on autofocus with HD picture and 30x optical zoom. The battery is strong as well.
This camera is a bit small, which does come at the cost of sturdiness. It definitely could be more durable, which is something to think about if you plan to let a lot of people handle it. However, if you want a reliable option you can use with your photo booth, it’s hard to beat this.
3. Nikon D3500
- Best for: Affordability
- Key Features: Accurate autofocus system. Strong sensor and HD resolution. Extremely long battery life. Plenty of available accessories. Surprisingly compact.
- Weight: 0.91
- Screen Size: 3 inches
- Video Capture Resolution: HD
DSLR’s are great for photo booths, but they also tend to be quite expensive. The D3500, while still costly, is much cheaper than similar options. That makes it an excellent option for those who want a complete model that won’t end up costing a small fortune.
This camera works extremely well in a photo booth setting due to its 24.2 MP DX-format sensor, great light sensitivity, and full HD resolution. Add on the extended battery life and top-tier autofocus and you get a machine that’s able to deliver perfect shots time and time again.
The lack of true 4k is a drawback here, but the camera’s resolution should be more than enough for most tasks. The touch screen could also be more accurate, but that’s a small complaint for what amounts to an excellent deal at multiple levels.
How to Choose a Camera for Photo Booth
Understanding the following aspects will narrow down your prospective choices when looking for a top-of-the-line photo booth camera.
Battery Life
You want your photo booth to last quite a while. Your camera should as well. Favor models with strong battery life that you won’t have to worry about dying at an inopportune time. Something that can last for hours with minimal usage should always be your goal.
Low Light Capability
Photo booths, while fun, don’t always have the best light. To make up for that, you need a camera that can shoot in both dark and bright settings. Being able to compensate for either environment will take your photo booth shots to the next level. Large sensors are key.
Image Quality
As with any other spec, you want your photo booth camera to be crisp and clear. Favor devices with premium resolution that ranges from 1080p and beyond. You want a great recording too, if you can help it.
My Verdict
In my opinion, the Canon EOS M50 is the best overall camera for photo booth. It’s an incredibly well-rounded model that gives you everything you need. That includes crisp resolution, powerful specs, and excellent low light sensitivity. The 24.1MP CMOS sensor goes a long way here.
Though the camera isn’t perfect, it has more than enough packed into the surprisingly lightweight shell to make sure your photo booth is a huge success. It’s versatile and provides you with plenty of premium qualities.
