Shooting sporting events can be frustrating without the best cameras for sports photography. If your camera can’t keep up with the action, athletes are nothing more than blurs. The best camera for sports photos changes everything. You’ll have sharp, action-packed images ready for the cover of Sports Illustrated.
The Olympus OM System OM-1 is the best sports photography camera. With a rapid 120 fps burst rate, you’ll never miss a moment. The high-resolution mode lets you shoot epic images and create professional sports videos. It’s the total package for sports photographers.
What Is the Best Camera for Sports Photography?
The best camera for sports photography depends on your experience and needs. Our top three cameras for sports photography are the OM System OM-1, Nikon Z50, and Canon EOS R7.
Finding the best camera for sports photography isn’t easy. No matter your skill level, there are certain features you need to look out for. You want good-looking images, so you need good image resolution. But you also need a fast and accurate autofocus system.
You might also need a fast burst mode to capture the fastest action. Good video features are another positive feature of a modern sports photography camera.
We’ve considered all this when compiling our list. We have cameras at different levels and prices. But every camera on this list is fit for sports photography.
Here’s a quick rundown of the list. We’ll then look at each sports camera in detail. And the FAQ section at the end has some extra info.
- Powerful 80 MP High-Res Shot mode
- Sophisticated autofocus (1,053 cross-type focus points)
- Incredible 120 fps burst shooting with full resolution
- 4K video at 60 fps, Full HD at 240 fps
- A more affordable mirrorless option
- Nice to handle and use
- Relatively lightweight and not too bulky
- Solid 4K video performance
- 30 fps burst mode with electronic shutter
- 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization
- Fully articulating touch screen
- Unlimited, oversampled 4K video
- Animal eye-detect AF for wildlife and pets
- Astonishing autofocus
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization reduces camera shake
- Silent shooting
- Terrific battery life
- Small, lightweight camera
- 5.8K max video resolution
- Unlimited recording time as built-in fan prevents overheating
- Sensor-shift image stabilization
- Dual memory-card slots
- Weather-sealed body
- Incredible photo resolution
- Fantastic 5.3K video resolution for vivid action footage
- 1080p live stream and webcam
- HyperSmooth image stabilization for smooth video recording
- Waterproof down to 33 ft (10 m)
- Best battery life from a GoPro
- Excellent photo quality
- 5-axis optical image stabilization
- Nifty “Post Focus” mode can help increase depth of field
- High-resolution 4K video and photos
- Incredibly lightweight
- Excellent quality Leica lens
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization
- Great 4K video recording
- Good low-light performance
- 50 fps in continuos shooting mode
- Excellent image quality
- Eye detection AF
- Great ISO range and low-light performance
- 4K/25p and Full HD/120p video
- Excellent low-light performance
- 10 fps RAW burst with 200-image limit
- Weather-sealed body
- Long-lasting battery life
- 4K video with ports for external sound recording
10 Best Cameras for Sports Photography
This section looks at all the best cameras for sports photography in more detail. We have a wide range of cameras, including OM System, Canon, and Nikon. We have cameras for everyone, from beginners to professionals. There’s a camera for any sports lover.
1. Olympus OM System OM-1
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
 Micro Four Thirds |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Micro 4/3
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
20 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
 |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
1,053 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
10 fps |
| Minimum ISO (Native) |
Minimum ISO (Native)
200 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
25,600 |
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
A
|
| Best For |
Best For
Sports photographers at all levels
|
The Olympus OM System OM-1 is the best camera for sports photography. It’s packed with advanced features for capturing fast sporting action. And you can even produce pro-level sports videos. It’s the total package for sports photographers.
The OM-1 is a Micro Four Thirds (MFT) camera. It’s compact and lightweight but durable enough for life on the sidelines.
Its sensor is smaller than an APS-C or full-frame camera, making it a more compact camera body. That’s why the OM-1 is such a compact and lightweight camera. It’s the perfect fit for any camera backpack or messenger bag.
The MFT sensor gives you a 20 MP resolution. That’s a strong resolution for a sensor of this size. And the image quality is impressive. The details are sharp, the colors well-rendered, and it has a high dynamic range.
If 20 MP isn’t enough, you have a high-res shot mode. This takes several images and creates one high-resolution composite. The results are stunning 50 MP images and can be shot handheld. So you don’t need a tripod or monopod to use it.
The burst mode is the best in the business. It gives you 120 fps of sequential shooting. So you never miss a moment.
You don’t get AF tracking at that speed. But it can capture split-second actions from the players. Full AF tracking gives you a max continuous shooting speed of 10 fps.
Another bonus for sports photographers is the five-axis image stabilization. It gives you more control over your exposure settings and five stops of shutter speed compensation.
It’s ideal for indoor and night sporting events. It also provides smooth video footage, so you don’t need a camera gimbal.
The video features are just as impressive. You can shoot with 4K video resolution and a 60 fps frame rate at full resolution. That means you get ultra-smooth sports footage at the highest quality. The slow-motion options are great, too. You get a 240 fps rate in Full HD.
The Olympus OM System OM-1 has everything a sports photographer needs. It’s compact and weather-sealed for outdoor shooting. And it has all the features you need to capture intense sporting action.
It’s a true hybrid camera with outstanding features for photos and video. This is why it’s our pick for the best camera for sports photography. If you love the Olympus style, see our list of the best OM System cameras.
2. Nikon Z50
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
 APS-C |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Nikon Z
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
21 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
 |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
209 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
11 fps |
| Minimum ISO (Native) |
Minimum ISO (Native)
100 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
51,200 |
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Eye-detection AF, in-camera filters and effects, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
|
| Best For |
Best For
Beginners and amateur sports photographers
|
The Z50 is a fantastic Nikon camera for amateur sports photographers. It’s compact and lightweight, making it easy to take on the road. The quality of the photos and videos is excellent. It also has features that capture all the on-field action.
The APS-C sensor gives you a 20.9 MP image resolution. Combined with the fast EXPEED 6 image processor, you take high-quality images with very little processing time. You can snap sports photos quickly without waiting for the camera to buffer.
It is great for video, too. You can record 4K videos at 30 fps. It’s smooth footage with incredible detail. And you have slow-motion video options in Full HD. There’s no cropping in slow-mo, so it’s perfect for shooting sports.
Sports fans will also love the hybrid autofocus system. It uses 209 on-sensor focus points to find and track your subject. These focus points provide coverage of the full frame, giving you edge-to-edge sharpness. And it doesn’t lose focus if your subject is moving.
The Nikon Z50 has a continuous shooting speed of 11 fps, which helps you snap dynamic sports images when the action is fastest. It also has a fully articulating LCD screen, built-in effects, and Wi-Fi connectivity for easy image transfers.
3. Canon EOS R7
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
APS-C |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Canon RF
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
33 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
651 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
15 fps |
| Minimum ISO (Native) |
Minimum ISO (Native)
100 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
32,000 |
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
30 fps with the electronic shutter, face-detection AF, weather-sealed body
|
| Best For |
Best For
Intermediate sports photographers
|
The Canon EOS R7 is a pro-grade full-frame mirrorless camera with everything you need for sports photography. Its image quality packs a punch, and its features won’t let you fall behind the action on the pitch.
The full-frame sensor provides a 32.5 MP resolution. The details and color rendering are outstanding. The wide dynamic range gives accurate detail in bright and dark areas.
You also get a good ISO range with strong low-light performance. That means you can still get noise-free images at night and indoor sporting events.
This mirrorless has one of the best autofocus systems on a Canon camera. A Dual-Pixel CMOS AF system uses 651 focus points to lock and track your subject, so fast athletes and speeding cars are no problem.
It has head, face, and eye detection features to capture athletes in action. And the mechanical shutter gives you a burst rate of 15 fps. That’s fast enough for most sporting situations.
But if you need something quicker, switch to the electronic shutter. It gives you 30 fps of continuous shooting. You won’t miss a shot with a frame rate like that.
The video features are just as impressive. The video resolution is 4K. And you get a max frame rate of 60 fps with no cropping. You record super smooth sports footage with cinematic quality.
Plus, the five-axis image stabilization works for stills and video recording. It’s a lifesaver if you’re shooting the EOS R7 handheld.
4. Sony a6600
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
APS-C |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Sony E
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
24.2 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
425 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
11 fps |
| Minimum ISO (Native) |
Minimum ISO (Native)
50 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
102,400 |
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
84% AF coverage, eye-detection AF, ports for external sound device, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
|
| Best For |
Best For
Photographers looking for a compact mirrorless camera
|
Sports fans will love the Sony a6600. It’s affordable and easy to use. This Sony is simple enough for beginners, with features to please experienced intermediates. Its functions also make it an excellent mirrorless camera for sports photography.
The APS-C sensor has a 24.2 MP resolution. Its color, detail, and dynamic range are excellent for an APS-C camera, so you’ll take fabulous sports images. Its wide ISO range gives you low-noise images even in low-light situations.
It has one of the best AF systems in its class. It’s a hybrid system using 425 phase and 425 contrast detection points.
It’s quick to lock onto your subject, even if they move quickly. And it’ll track them as they move across the frame. It’s reliable even with rapid sports stars.
The 4K video mode comes with extra functions for more creativity. In Full HD, you can shoot in fast and slow motion. And the camera even has a built-in time-lapse video creator.
The a6600‘s bright LCD screen tilts and rotates. That helps you get tricky shots. And it’s ideal for sports influencers and vlogging. The eye-detection AF mode also helps with this type of media production.
5. Panasonic Lumix GH6
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Micro Four Thirds |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Micro 4/3
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
25 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
315 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
14 fps |
| Minimum ISO (Native) |
Minimum ISO (Native)
100 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
25,600 |
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
A high-res shot mode, dual image stabilizer, dynamic range boost, 4K slow-motion video
|
| Best For |
Best For
Sports videography
|
The Panasonic Lumix GH6 is the best camera for pro-level sports videos. It’s one of Panasonic’s best cameras. And that means it’s one of the best videography cameras on the market. It has advanced features for capturing sports stills or videos.
The GH6 has a Micro Four Thirds sensor, which means the camera has a compact and lightweight body. But it’s not fragile. The body is completely weather-sealed for media production in all conditions.
It’s a powerful MFT sensor with a 25 MP resolution. The image quality is professional-standard, and quality-enhancing features like the dynamic range boost are available. When expanded, the ISO setting is 50.
You also have the sensor-shift high-resolution shot mode. By merging several images, it creates one 100 MP image. The image quality is truly breathtaking. And it’s perfect for epic stadium shots. You can also use this mode without a camera tripod.
The video features will keep even professional videographers happy. You can shoot footage with a 5.7K resolution at 60 fps. This footage is cropped, unlike the 4K footage. But the quality is outstanding.
It also produces 4K video with a 120 fps frame rate. This is incredibly smooth and perfect for fast-action filming.
The 120 fps footage can be used as slow-motion video. And you also have a 300 fps slow-mo option with Full HD quality. You won’t find many better slow-motion cameras.
The GH6 is equipped with a dual stabilization system. It offers up to 7.5 stops of shutter speed correction. That gives you excellent exposure control in any condition. This means you can shoot smooth footage without using a camera stabilizer.
The Panasonic Lumix GH6 is the best camera for sports multimedia. Video content has become just as important as photography, especially in sports. And the GH6 has everything a sports videographer needs to succeed.
6. GoPro Hero11 Black
| Brand |
Brand
GoPro
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
27 MP |
| Max Video Resolution |
Max Video Resolution
|
| Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
1/1.9 inch
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Hypersmooth stabilization, 8x slow-motion video, dual screens, waterproof
|
| Best For |
Best For
Extreme sports
|
The GoPro Hero11 Black is one of the best action cameras available. It’s compact and highly durable and produces stunning photos and videos. It’s the perfect choice for thrill-seekers and extreme sports.
Action cameras have to be robust. And the GoPro Hero11 certainly meets that criterion. It’s dustproof for dry environments. It’s shockproof for inevitable knocks and scrapes.
And it’s completely waterproof down to 33 ft (10 m). You can use it for everything from ski to surf photography.
The Hero11’s media output is genuinely impressive. GoPros aren’t known for their stills capabilities, but this action cam gives you 27 MP images. That’s sensational quality for a camera of this size.
The video results are even better. You can record with a 5.3K video resolution. And you can shoot at full resolution at 60 fps. That gives you incredibly smooth action videos.
There’s a 2.7K slow-motion video option with a 240 fps frame rate. This gives you high-quality videos at an 8x reduced speed.
It also has award-winning stabilization, using GoPro’s unique HyperSmooth system. Horizon detection helps reduce unwanted camera shake. It delivers smooth, watchable videos even from the most extreme sporting moments.
The battery life is the best of any GoPro so far. It has fun features like long-exposure and time-lapse photography modes.
That’s why the Hero11 Black is worth considering. It’s the best camera for extreme sports like skateboarding, snowboarding, and kayaking. Read our full roundup of all the best GoPros.
7. Panasonic Lumix ZS100
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
 1" |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Fixed
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
20 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
49 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
10 fps |
| Minimum ISO (Native) |
Minimum ISO (Native)
125 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
12,800 |
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Optical stabilization, post-focus mode, fixed Leica lens, 10x zoom range
|
| Best For |
Best For
Sports photographers who want a compact camera
|
The Panasonic Lumix ZS100 is the best compact camera for sports photography. It fits in your pocket. But it has incredible photography and video features. And the advanced features are more than capable of capturing the best sporting action.
It has a small one-inch sensor, but despite its small size, it offers an impressive 20.1 MP resolution. That’s a huge jump from smartphone cameras. You can see the difference when you view the images on social media or a computer screen.
It has a fixed zoom lens. The optical quality is excellent, as you’d expect from a Leica lens. And it gives you a 10x zoom range. So you can capture the action on the field from high in the stands. You also get image stabilization for sharper sports images.
The ZS100 also records 4K video at a 30 fps frame rate. So you can expect smooth sports footage. The Lumix 4K Photo mode lets you select individual frames from video footage, giving you a rapid burst mode of 30 fps.
It has a three-inch LCD touchscreen for easy use. It’s Wi-Fi connected. So you can transfer media to other devices. You can also charge the camera using a USB cable.
8. Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 II
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
1" |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Fixed
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
20 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
49 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
12 fps |
| Minimum ISO (Native) |
Minimum ISO (Native)
125 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
12,800 |
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Fixed Leica lens, 16x optical zoom, image stabilization, 4K Photo mode
|
| Best For |
Best For
Photographers who want to get close to the action without buying new lenses
|
The Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 II is one of the best bridge cameras. A bridge camera gives you the convenience of a point-and-shoot with the results of a DSLR camera. They’re perfect for beginners and casual photographers.
This camera has all the features of a quality sports photography camera. It has a fixed Leica lens. And its optical quality is outstanding.
It gives you a powerful 16x optical zoom equivalent to a 400mm super-telephoto lens. So you can get right into the action without leaving your seat. And you don’t have to fork out money for additional lenses.
The camera also has built-in optical stabilization. Things can get pretty shaky at 400mm magnification. But the optical stabilizer reduces signs of camera shake, giving you sharper images.
It has a one-inch sensor. That’s small for a camera sensor. But it delivers excellent 20 MP images. The quality is impressive, with sharp details and vibrant colors. And it beats most smartphones by a mile.
You can also record 4K videos, and there’s a 30 fps frame rate at full resolution. You can also use the 4K Photo mode for rapid burst shooting. It lets you use single frames as still images. The images only have an 8 MP resolution, but you do get a 30 fps burst rate.
The Lumix FZ1000 II couldn’t be easier to use. Even tech-shy photographers can pick it up and start shooting. The photo and video features are fantastic. And the zoom lens is perfect for capturing sports from the sidelines.
9. Canon EOS Rebel T8i
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
APS-C |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Canon EF/EF-S
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
24 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
45 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
7.5 fps |
| Minimum ISO (Native) |
Minimum ISO (Native)
100 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
25,600 |
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Eye-detection AF, rotating LCD screen, webcam capabilities, Full HD 120 fps video
|
| Best For |
Best For
Beginner sports photographer wanting a classic camera
|
The EOS Rebel T8i is an excellent entry-level DSLR Canon camera. Absolute beginners can pick it up and start shooting. The features are well-suited to amateur sports photography. But experienced photographers will still be impressed.
The 24.1 MP APS-C sensor produces images that will encourage new photographers. The details are accurate and intricate. And the colors are well-rendered and true to life.
The AF system has been designed for fast-moving subjects. It uses 45 cross-type focus points that nearly cover the entire frame. Plus, you have face detection options for shooting athletes close up. And it also has subject tracking for action shots.
The burst mode gives you 7 fps. While it’s not record-breaking, that’s fast enough for most amateur sports photographers. The video frame rate is 24 fps. It’s not quite as smooth as 30 fps. But you still get 4K video resolution for fantastic sports videos.
There’s a rotating LCD touchscreen for getting those tricky angles. The Canon Rebel T8i also has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. So it’s easy to share images with other devices.
10. Nikon D500
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
APS-C |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Nikon F DX
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
20.9 MP |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
153 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
10 fps |
| Minimum ISO (Native) |
Minimum ISO (Native)
50 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
51,200 |
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
10 fps burst with 200-image limit, incredible battery life, ports for external sound devices, weather-sealed body
|
| Best For |
Best For
Experienced photographers looking for a durable DSLR camera
|
The Nikon D500 is a powerful camera for experienced photographers. It’s a rugged DSLR that produces stunning media. It meets the needs of serious sports photographers.
It has an APS-C image sensor, making it a more compact DSLR body. But it still offers fantastic image quality with a 20.9 MP resolution.
You also get a wide ISO range. And the low-light performance is excellent. That’s ideal for late starting times and indoor sports.
It gives you a burst rate of 10 fps. That’s fast for a DSLR camera. And it helps you snap those blink-and-you-miss-it moments. You also get 4K video recording at 30 fps. It’s a well-equipped multimedia machine.
The AF system is perfect for fast-moving subjects. The 153 focus points find and lock your subject in a fraction of a second. After your subject is in focus, the system keeps it in focus as it moves.
The Nikon D500 LCD screen tilts for more shooting options. And it’s Bluetooth- and Wi-Fi-connected for easy media transfers.
Best Camera for Sports Photography FAQs
Now, we answer some of the hottest questions on sports photography cameras. This information will help you find the best camera to capture all the sporting action.
What Features Are Important in a Camera for Sports Photography?
Sports photography is a tricky discipline. But having a camera with all the right features helps you achieve better results. These are some of the features you need to look out for.
Hight Sensor Resolution
Sensor resolution is an important feature of any camera. The resolution is the best indicator of the camera’s image quality. Image resolution is measured in megapixels (MP). Generally, the higher the MP, the better the image quality.
Other factors influence the image quality of any camera. But looking for a higher MP number is a good way to ensure better-quality images.
Wide ISO Range
A sports camera needs a wide ISO range. You can keep the ISO low on sunny days. But you need higher ISO settings when shooting night games or indoor events.
The ISO tells you how sensitive the sensor is to light. A higher ISO setting makes the camera’s sensor more sensitive to light. And it allows it to work in lower light.
A low ISO gives you superior images. The details are sharper, the colors are richer, and there’s no digital noise. But the sensor needs more light to properly expose the image. So, you have to balance the shutter speed and aperture.
Higher ISO settings also lose image quality. When you reach the top ISO settings, you see more digital noise in your images.
Fast Burst Mode
A fast burst mode is essential for sports photography. Everything happens so fast. So, you can’t always get the perfect shot with a standard shutter mode. It’s best to have more speed.
Beginners might be happy with a continuous shooting speed of 5 fps. But professionals have been demanding faster and faster burst speeds.
The camera manufacturers have delivered. Burst speeds of 30 fps are now common in the best mirrorless cameras. And the Olympus OM System OM-1 has an incredible 120 fps burst speed. You won’t miss a thing with that camera.
Fast, Relible Autofocus (AF) and Tracking
A good autofocus system is a welcome feature in any camera. But a sports camera needs an AF system that can track moving subjects. Athletes won’t stay still while you find focus. That’s why you need a fast and reliable AF.
It needs to find your subject quickly and follow them as they move. Look for cameras with subject-tracking AF.
In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS)
Image stabilization counteracts camera shake. That means you can shoot with slower shutter speeds without experiencing motion blur. You also have more exposure options in lower light. And it gives you sharper images. IBIS is a real bonus for sports photographers.
What Is the Best Lens for Sports Photography?
Sports photographers need a telephoto or super-telephoto lens. While some still use prime telephoto lenses, we recommend you use a zoom lens.
Zooms give you the magnification to get close to the players from the stands. And the zoom capabilities give you more freedom and flexibility.
A 70-200mm lens is a great choice for sports photographers. This is why the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM is our top choice sports lens. But some photographers may prefer lenses with a larger telephoto range.
Check out our full list of the best lenses for sports photography.
Conclusion: Best Camera for Sports Photography
Sports photography is difficult without the right camera. Because the action moves quickly, you often get blurry images or empty shots. But finding the best camera for sports photography is a complete game-changer.
Maybe you’re a devoted sports parent or a sports reporter. A sports photography camera is a must-have.
The Olympus OM System OM-1 is the best camera for sports photography. Its compact but weather-sealed body is suitable for any environment. It has powerful features for still images and impressive video options. It has a 120 fps burst mode for rapid sequential shooting.
