As the camera industry continues to evolve it becomes increasingly difficult to decipher the quality and features from one camera compared to another. For outdoor photography, a solid and high quality camera is a must. From there you’ll want to look carefully at features important to you as well as versatility, image quality, and weight. If you are looking for a camera that will capture your experience on the trail, you’re in the right place. We’ve rounded up the ten best outdoor photography cameras to accompany you on your next adventure.

GoPro Hero5 Black

Let’s start off with something a little different. GoPro isn’t new to the adventure camera market but their latest camera far exceeds the capability and quality of their previous models. Shoot 4K videos and fire off 12 MP still images which both come as standard with Go Pro Hero 5 Black cam. This high-performing action camera has impressive technical features, like voice-activated camera control, out-of-box waterproof ability, a 2.0-inch rear Touchscreen display, and automatic response to changing the light in video mode, which is a major upgrade from previous models.

Nikon D500

Nikon D500 professional-level APS-C-format camera is a real contender for enthusiasts looking to shoot top quality outdoor shots. Its 20.7MP APS-C (DX-format) sensor can capture the swift-moving objects and performs well in low-light situations producing high-quality images in a range of conditions. Nikon’s EXPEED 5 processors mean no buffering or lag; the D500 will just keep shooting and clicking.

Sony RX100 V

The best compact camera, roughly the size of Clif bar, with ultimate image quality! The Sony RX100 V is a point and shoot camera that doesn’t trade off quality for being extremely small and lightweight. A 1.0-inch CMOS sensor allows you to capture low-light 4K videos and 20.1 MP photographs perfectly.

Olympus OM-D EM-1 Mark II

Freeze-, dust- and water-proof OM-D EM-1 Mark II camera by Olympus has impressed millions of photographers with its exceptional range of stills and video-minded functionality. When you need to shoot in rough conditions with increased flexibility of interchangeable lenses, this mirrorless camera is all you need.

Panasonic Lumix GX7 Mirrorless ILC

The Panasonic Lumix GX7 Mirrorless ILC has all the bells and whistles for any outdoor photographer’s needs and is one of the most impressive mirrorless digital cameras available in the market. The Lumix GX7 uses a Micro Four Thirds lens mount, full 1080p HD video capability, MOS Micro Four Thirds image sensor and a 3.0-nch touch screen display. It also comes with a full manual ISO setting up to 25,600,5fps in burst mode. What else could you want?

Canon 7D Mark II

Another option for a high end DSLR camera, the Canon 7D Mark II, has great capability with a 65-point autofocus, 10fps burst speed, and 65 AF points, which make it an ultimate action camera. Its weather-sealed body makes it an exciting product for those in a variety of outdoor conditions.

Sony A6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera

For those looking for a camera that takes beautiful photos, has the versatility of interchangeable lenses, and is relatively lightweight and compact, the Sony A6000 is the pick for you. If taking a mountain top selfie is a must, check out the Sony A5000 with a display that flips to be able to see what you’re photographing and even provides a 5 second countdown automatically.

Fujifilm X-T1 Mirrorless Digital Camera

The game-changer Fujifilm’s X-T1 is the first interchangeable X-series model with its own XF-mount system of lenses. With expandable ISO range, 16.3MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor, EXR Processor II, wireless connectivity, weather-resistant body and plenty more, this product is ideal for anyone who craves for outstanding image and video functionality.

Nikon D5300

Meet the camera that enables you capturing vibrant, lifelike images. With this budget friendly model –Nikon D5300, you can enjoy ultra-high-resolution images, a cutting-edge 24.2 mp image sensor, 29-point AF system, built-in Wi-Fi, GPS and mapping, extra-large swiveling Vari-angle LCD and much more.

Sony Alpha SLT A68

Sony Alpha SLT A68 offers amazing performance. It’s a great product for photography enthusiasts and ambitious beginners. The camera features Translucent Mirror technology that enables full resolution shooting at 5 fps and low resolution shooting at 8 fps. Because of the same technology, you can have access to full-time continuous AF, electronic viewfinder and an incredible resolution of 1.44 million.

Do you use any of these cameras? Which one would you recommend? Leave a comment below to be part of the conversation!

Last modified: September 1, 2017