Best Street Photography Camera: Reviews, Buying Guide and FAQs 2022

by Alex W.

In most areas of photography, the best camera for the job will be interchangeable with other genres. For example, the best camera for landscape photography may very well be a contender for the best astrophotography camera.

Street photography is a little different though.

The best street photography cameras have quite specific selling points that perfectly suit the job at hand. That's not to say you can't get great images with any camera, just that certain styles of cameras are well suited to the fast-paced nature of street photography.

In this article, we'll break down what to look for in a street photography camera and round up some of the best options on the market

What to Look For in a Street Photography Camera ?

What to look for in a street photography camera
What to look for in a street photography camera

While specific, the things to look for in a street photography camera are actually quite simple.

Also Read: Best Camera for Weather Underground: Reviews, Buying Guide and FAQs 2022

As a street photographer you want to be discrete and quiet to capture those natural, candid moments. You want to be able to shoot at a moment's notice and to be able to move around easily.

With that in mind, here's a few questions to ask yourself when buying a street photography camera:

  • Is it small and discrete?
  • Is it light enough to carry around all day?
  • Are the controls intuitive and easy to use?
  • Does it have a suitable lens selection?

Top 9 Best Camera for Street Photography: Reviews 2022

The above questions pretty much rule out the vast majority of DSLR cameras due to their inherently bulky nature.

Of course, plenty of photographers managed to capture stunning street images before the days of top-quality mirrorless options, but now the mirrorless scene has caught up there really is little need to choose a DSLR when it comes to street photography.

That leaves two options: Interchangeable lens cameras or high-end compact cameras. We've rounded up a selection of both below.

Interchangeable Lens Options for Top 5 Best Street Photography Cameras in 2022

Fujifilm X-T4

  • Fujifilm X-T4 Mirrorless Camera Body - Black

    Fujifilm X-T4 Mirrorless Camera Body - Black

    • Putting stability in your hands: A huge part of creating great photos or videos is making sure you are in the right place at the right time - and that often means making handheld images to get to the heart of the action. X-T4's state-of-the-art, five-axis In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS) provides up to 6.5 stops of image stabilization to make sure that, even in the midst of all the excitement, your images remain steady and sharp. Combine this with the new four-axis digital image stabilizer, and you have lots of room to maneuver.
    • Performance you can rely on: For any serious image maker, having a tool that can be relied upon to perform flawlessly whenever it is required is extremely important. For this reason, X-T4 features a newly developed mechanical shutter that is the fastest and most robust in the history of the X series. Not only can it make images at 15 frames per second, but it is also rated for 300,000 actuations 2. When you combine this with its larger capacity battery that is capable of up to 600 frames per charge 2, X-T4 has the power and the durability to give you the peace of mind that you'll never miss the perfect opportunity.
    Rating:
  1. Sensor: APS-C
  2. Resolution: 26.1 MP
  3. Size: 135 x 93 x 64 mm
  4. Weight: 607g
  • + Film simulation modes give excellent shots SOOC
  • + Gorgeous design
  • - Not the smallest or lightest option
  • - Fairly expensive

With their gorgeous retro design and controls that are a throwback to analogue times, it's no surprise that many a street photographer plants their flag on the Fujifilm side of the fence.

The Fujifilm X-T4 isn't a huge upgrade on the X-T3, but it's an upgrade nonetheless.. It still has that retro aesthetic and feel and the famous film simulation modes, but now it adds in-body stabilization up to 6.5 stops and an improved autofocus system. It's also much improved if you want to shoot vlogs or video footage, so that's worth considering when making your choice.

As you would expect from one of the leading mirrorless manufacturers, the Fujifilm X-T4 offers excellent build quality, a bright and high-res EVF and full weather sealing.

As with all the Fujifilm X-series cameras, one of the major benefits is the excellent lens selection. Fujifilm love a fast prime lens, and that makes it a perfect fit for street photography. Strap one of their top prime lenses onto the X-T4 and you have a street photography beast!

Sony A6600

  • Sony Alpha A6600 Mirrorless Camera

    Sony Alpha A6600 Mirrorless Camera

    • World's fastest AF at 0 02 sec W/ real-time AF & Object tracking
    • 24 2MP APS-C Exmor sensor w/ front end LSI and ISO up to 102 400
    Rating:
  • Sensor: APS-C
  • Resolution: 24.2 MP
  • Size: 120 x 67 x 69
  • Weight: 503g
  • + Lightning fast autofocus
  • + Excellent low light performance
  • - Menu system is a mess
  • - LCD screen isn't the best

Sony are well known for their class-leading full-frame mirrorless cameras, but their APS-C options shouldn't be ignored and, in the case of street photography, that extra portability can make a big difference.

The A6600 is slightly smaller and lighter than the Fujifilm X-T4 but still offers the impeccable image quality we've come to expect from Sony technology. It also features 5-axis in-body stabilization and a class-leading autofocus system.

This autofocus system comes into it's own when tracking subjects, making it a great choice for street photographers who like to focus (no pun intended) on the hustle and bustle of city life.

Excellent low light performance adds to the appeal, with a monumental ISO range of 100 to 102,400 available, although clearly image quality suffers at the top end.

Admittedly the LCD screen is rather low-res with just 921k dots, but the bright and vibrant EVF makes up for that. The menu system is also a complete mess, but once you've got the initial set up on point it's fairly intuitive to use.

Canon EOS M6 II

  • Sensor: APS-C
  • Resolution: 32.5 MP
  • Size: 120 x 70 x 49 mm
  • Weight: 408g
  • + Extremely small and light
  • + Relatively cheap
  • - Lens selection still small
  • - Lack of stabilization

It took a while for the DSLR behemoths to finally leap into the mirrorless world, but they've done so in style.

The Canon EOS M6 II packs an impressive 32.5 megapixel sensor into a camera weighing just over 400 grams, making it the smallest and lightest APS-C camera on this list. Autofocus performance and continuous shooting (up to 14fps) are both excellent as well.

There are a few drawbacks, though. The detachable EVF is a love it or hate it sort of feature but does help keep the size and weight down, while the lack of in-body stabilization is disappointing too. The Canon EOS-M lens selection is still somewhat limited as well, although that will grow in time.

Nikon Z50

  • Sensor: APS-C
  • Resolution: 20.9 MP
  • Size: 127 x 94 x 60mm
  • Weight: 450g
  • + Relatively cheap
  • + Kit lens ideal for street photography
  • - Poor battery life
  • - Lower resolution than competitors

Like the Canon EOS M6 II, the Nikon Z50 is the smaller, lighter and cheaper version of Nikon's flagship full-frame mirrorless cameras, but it doesn't skimp on the features.

It boasts excellent performance in autofocus, dynamic range and low light shooting and the kit lens, a 16-50mm pancake lens, is perfect for discrete street shooting. Sure, it's not the best lens for the occasion, but it's rare that a kit lens offers this level of portability and not instantly needing to buy a new lens makes this a great entry point to street photography.

The affordable price makes this a fantastic option, and really the only major downsides are the below-average battery life and slightly lower 20.9 MP resolution, although the latter point is unlikely to make much of a difference in the real world.

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mk III

  • Sensor: Micro Four Thirds
  • Resolution: 20 MP
  • Size: 125 x 85 x 50 mm
  • Weight: 414g
  • + Class-leading stabilization
  • + Huge lens selection
  • - Small sensor
  • - Quite expensive

Micro Four Thirds cameras don't get half the appreciation they should do, with most photographers opting for the bigger sensors of APS-C or full-frame options. While understandable, it is a mistake to overlook some of these smaller sensor options.

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mk III is one of those that shouldn't be overlooked. It has class-leading in-body stabilization and fantastic image quality. As long as you aren't printing big or cropping heavily you're unlikely to be able to tell the difference between this and an equivalent APS-C image.

The retro design is just gorgeous as well, enhanced by sturdy build quality and full weather-sealing.

As you might expect it's also very portable, although given that it's slightly bigger and heavier than the Canon EOS M6 II we can't really shout about that too much.

What we can shout about is the lens selection. The Micro Four Thirds lens range is huge and offers something for everyone, whether it's Olympus, Panasonic or a third-party manufacturer. There's also the added advantage of these lenses often being much smaller and lighter than the APS-C or full-frame equivalents.

Compact Camera Options for Top 4 Best Street Camera in 2022

Fujifilm X100V

  • Fujifilm X100V Digital Camera - Silver

    Fujifilm X100V Digital Camera - Silver

    • Great photography every day, everywhere: X100V features a newly designed, incorporated 23 millimeter F2 lens, ensuring you preserve those special moments at maximum resolution with minimal distortion. It also offers an improved close focusing performance compared to previous X100 models, and, for the first time in the X100 line, you can keep making images even in the toughest conditions when you attach the optional adapter ring with the weather-sealing protection lens (sold separately). This outstanding lens retains the same slim line design as other X100 models, so it retains compatibility with existing WCL and TCL lens attachments.
    • Designed for quality and speed: From fleeting holiday moments and family celebrations to hard-hitting visual stories and ever-changing city streets, X100V has been designed to always deliver exceptional image and video quality. Creating a tool this capable takes powerful technology; That's why Fujifilm's state-of-the-art X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and X-processor 4 combination sits at this camera's core. Pairing this exceptional, 26.1MP, back-side illuminated sensor and powerful quad-core CPU results in incredible quality, wide dynamic range, lightning-fast processing and precision AF performance, right down to -5EV.
    Rating:
  • Sensor: APS-C
  • Resolution: 26.1 MP
  • Size: 128 x 75 x 53 mm
  • Weight: 478g
  • + Great lens
  • + Innovate viewfinder options
  • - Fixed focal length
  • - No in-body stabilization

Fujifilm's classic retro-styling doesn't hold back when it comes to compact cameras either, and the X100V is up there with the best of them.

The 26.1 megapixel sensor is fantastic and, bundled with the 23mm f/2 lens, it makes for a gorgeous street photography package, especially with Fujifilm's film simulation modes to play with.

One of my favourite features is the innovative hybrid viewfinder which provide you with three great options. You can use the 3.69 million dot EVF or flick a switch and use the 0.52x magnification optical viewfinder, letting you see outside the shot while also providing framing lines for composition. Or you can use the electronic rangefinder to bring the EVF into the optical viewfinder.

Of course, the limitation of a fixed focal length will be a dealbreaker for some and the lack of in-body stabilization is disappointing, but overall this is a fantastic little compact camera.

Sony RX100 VII

  • Sony RX100 VII Shooting Grip Kit

    Sony RX100 VII Shooting Grip Kit

    • 20. 1MP 1. 0-Type stacked CMOS sensor, Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 24-200mm F2. 8-F4. 5 large aperture high magnification zoom lens
    • Kit includes shooting grip capable of controlling camera (capture/zoom/rec) plus converts into a mini-tripod. Use the included bracket to attach an optional microphone such as Sony's ECM-XYST1M for optimal audio performance.
    Rating:
  • Sensor: 1 inch
  • Resolution: 20.1 MP
  • Size: 102 x 58 x 43mm
  • Weight: 302g
  • + Excellent autofocus system
  • + Very small and light
  • - Expensive
  • - Menus are a pain

The Sony RX100 range has long sat on the throne at the head of the compact camera table and, while expensive, the RX100 VII packs a real punch.

The Zeiss 24-200mm f/2.8 - 4.5 offers a lot of flexibility when it comes to framing and, as you would expect from Zeiss gear, is excellent quality. The camera itself is absolutely tiny and weighs in at just over 300g as well, making it one of the lightest options on this list.

Excellent autofocus, image stabilization and blazingly fast continuous shooting add to the package, although the infamous Sony menus are still a pain to navigate and can be quite fiddly on such a small piece of kit.

Canon Powershot G5 X Mk II

  • Sensor: 1 inch
  • Resolution: 20.1 MP
  • Size: 111 x 61 x 46 mm
  • Weight: 340g
  • + Flexible zoom range
  • + Intuitive shooting
  • - Not the sharpest
  • - Quite expensive

Designed to challenge the Sony RX100 range, the Canon Powershot G5X Mk II improves on the original in many ways but unfortunately still falls short of the RX100 VII in other areas.

The 24-120mm f/1.8 - 2.8 lens is bright and flexible, but the sensor doesn't quite resolve the same level of sharpness as the Sony and that can be an issue.

On the other hand, the handling of the camera is great. The inclusion of a mode dial and the customisable lens control ring makes shooting with it much more intuitive than most compact cameras while also keeping the size and weight at manageable levels.

It's good, but it's not perfect by any stretch.

Ricoh GR III

  • Ricoh GR III Digital Compact Camera, 24mp, 28mm F 2.8 Lens...

    Ricoh GR III Digital Compact Camera, 24mp, 28mm F 2.8 Lens...

    • 24 MP CMOS Sensor with accelerator unit helps achieve remarkable image quality; 3 Axis; 4 Stop Shake Reduction ensures sharp images even in lower light conditions; It is also compatible with multi tone 14 bit RAW image recording
    • 3 inches Air gapless Capacitive Touch LCD Screen makes controlling the GR III event easier with complete menu control as well as focus and shutter release; It is confirmed that a USB connection can be established between the camera and the following OS's; Windows 10(FCU, CU) (32 bit, 64 bit), Windows 8.1(32 bit, 64bit), Windows 8(32 bit, 64 bit), or Windows 7(32 bit, 64 bit); Mac macOS 10.14 Mojave, macOS 10.13 High Sierra, macOS 10.12 Sierra, OS X 10.11 El Capitan, OS X 10.10 Yosemite
    Rating:
  • Sensor: APS-C
  • Resolution: 24MP
  • Size: 109 x 62 x 33 mm
  • Weight: 257g
  • + Big sensor in a little package
  • + Absolutely tiny
  • - No included viewfinder
  • - Poor battery life

If you want maximum performance with minimum footprint, the Ricoh GR III is your best street photography camera. It's the smallest and lightest option on our list but still manages to jam in a 24MP APS-C sensor delivering beautiful image quality.

Like the Fujifilm X100V, the 28mm f/2.8 lens will be a dealbreaker to some, but others will find it a rewarding challenge to be limited to a single focal length and the lens itself performs very well.

There are some drawbacks though. You'll have to pay extra for a viewfinder and the LCD screen is fixed rather than articulating, while the approximate 200-shot battery life is pretty poor by today's standards.

However, if you want something tiny that you can carry everywhere but don't want to skimp on image quality, there isn't a better camera out there.

Buying Guide for the Best Street Photography Camera

Buying Guide for the Best Street Photography Camera
Buying Guide for the Best Street Photography Camera

Street photography is a very popular form of photography that involves capturing fleeting moments in public places. It can be quite challenging, but with the right equipment, you can take some amazing photos and improve your skills as a photographer.

Portability

One of the most important considerations when choosing the best camera for street photography is portability. Ideally, you want something that is lightweight, compact, and easy to carry around. Some excellent choices include mirrorless cameras and high-end DSLR models like the Nikon D850 or Canon EOS 5D Mark IV. Many photographers also prefer using point-and-shoot cameras due to their smaller size and ability to capture sharp images even in low light conditions.

The Type of Photography

When it comes to lenses, there are many different options available depending on the type of photography you want to do. For example, wide-angle lenses are great for capturing large groups of people or architecture, while telephoto lenses are ideal for candid shots or portraits. Prime lenses are also a good choice as they offer fast shutter speeds and low apertures, which is perfect for street photography.

Your Budget

One final consideration is your budget. Street photography cameras can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars depending on the features and quality you're looking for. If you're just starting out, it's probably best to go with something more affordable like a point-and-shoot camera or mirrorless model. However, if you're serious about becoming a street photographer, then investing in a high-end DSLR or compact system camera is a good idea.

How to Carry Camera for Street Photography ?

If you are a street photographer, then your camera is one of the most important items that you need to carry with you at all times. But how do you go about carrying it? Do you simply sling it over your shoulder or what?

Well, there are actually quite a few different ways that you can choose to carry your camera if you want to be as comfortable and agile as possible while shooting on the street. Let's take a look at some options:

Hold It In Your Hands

Some photographers prefer holding their cameras in their hands at all times, even when they aren't using them to capture images. While this allows for total freedom of movement and fast access whenever necessary, it can also be a bit tiring on your arms after a while.

Wear A Camera Strap

One way to carry your camera without putting too much stress on your arms is by using a camera strap. If you are shooting with an SLR, then you can simply wear the strap around your neck and hold onto it whenever necessary. However, there are some disadvantages to this method as well, such as the fact that it can get in the way when you're trying to shoot quickly or if you have to hide it from view for any reason.

Use A Waist Belt Or Sling

If you do want something more comfortable than a standard camera strap, then consider getting yourself one of the many different types of waist belts or slings that are available on the market. These allow you to distribute the weight of your camera more evenly around your body, making it much easier to carry for extended periods of time.

Use A Backpack

Another great option for carrying your camera gear is by using a backpack. This is probably the most comfortable way to go about it, as you can distribute the weight of your camera and other gear evenly across your back and shoulders. Plus, it leaves your arms free to move about as needed, which can be extremely helpful when you're trying to take photos quickly.

So, those are just a few of the different ways that you can choose to carry your camera gear when you're out on the street. Try out a few different methods and see which one works best for you.

Benefits of Using a Camera for Street Photography

There are many benefits to using a camera for street photography. One of the key advantages is that it allows you to capture very high-quality images of your subjects, which can help you create truly stunning and memorable photos.

Another benefit of using a camera is that it gives you more flexibility when composing your shots. Because you have more control over the settings on your camera, such as aperture and shutter speed, you can adjust the exposure and depth of field in any given scene to achieve the look and feel that you want.

Additionally, having a camera with you at all times allows you to take photos whenever an interesting situation arises. This means that you will never miss out on capturing important moments or special events, even if they happen unexpectedly.

In short,

  1. A camera can help you capture decisive moments.
  2. A camera can help you capture candid shots of people.
  3. A camera can help you capture the feeling of a place.
  4. A camera can help you capture interesting details that you might otherwise miss.
  5. A camera can help you experiment with different composition techniques.
  6. A camera can help you capture photos that tell a story.
  7. A camera can help you practice your photography skills.
  8. A camera can be a great conversation starter.
  9. A camera can help you make new friends.
  10. A camera can help you document your travels.

Types of Cameras for Street Photography

When it comes to street photography, there are many different types of cameras that you can use. The type of camera you choose will depend on your budget and the features that you need. Here are some of the most common types:

1. Basic point-and-shoot cameras

These cameras are often small, lightweight, and easy to carry around with you. While they don't have a lot of advanced features, they are ideal for beginners or those who want to take quick snapshots on the go.

2. Compact mirrorless cameras

These cameras offer many of the same benefits as basic point-and-shoot models but with an added benefit - high image quality from larger sensors. They also tend to pack in more powerful features and offer better control over your settings.

3. Full-frame DSLR cameras

If you want maximum image quality for your street photos, then a full-frame DSLR is the way to go. These cameras are more expensive than other models, but they offer the best performance overall in terms of focus speed, low light performance, and sharpness.

4. Medium format digital cameras

If money is no object and you want the absolute best image quality possible from a street photography camera, then medium format digital cameras might be right for you. They tend to have much larger sensors than even full frame DSLRs, as well as incredibly high resolution that can capture every detail on the streets with ease.

When choosing a camera for street photography, it is important to consider your budget and the features that you need. By understanding the different types of cameras on the market, you can make an informed decision about which camera is best suited to your needs.

Expert Tips for Maintaining Your Camera for Street Photography

If you're serious about street photography, then you know that having a dependable camera is essential. But keeping your camera in top condition isn't always easy, especially if you're constantly taking it out and about with you. Here are some expert tips for maintaining your camera so that it stays in good shape for years to come:

1. Keep your camera clean

This may seem like an obvious tip, but it's one that's often overlooked. Your camera is constantly exposed to the elements when you're out on the street, so it's important to keep it clean and free of dirt and grime. Use a soft cloth to wipe down your camera body and lens after each use, and be sure to clean any other exposed parts, such as the viewfinder and flash.

2. Protect your camera from the elements

When you're not using your camera, be sure to store it in a safe, dry place. If you're going to be out in the rain or snow, invest in a weather-resistant camera bag or case to keep your gear protected.

3. Handle your camera with care

Your camera is a delicate piece of equipment, so handle it with care. Avoid dropping it or subjecting it to sudden movements or impact. When you're not using it, store it in a safe place where it won't be jostled around.

4. Use quality lenses and accessories

If you want your photos to look their best, then it's important to use high-quality lenses and accessories. Avoid cheap knockoffs and always stick with reputable brands, such as Canon or Nikon.

5. Regularly check your camera settings

Your camera settings will change over time, so it's vital to regularly check your exposure and focus to ensure that they're still accurate. If necessary, make adjustments based on the shooting conditions or environment you are in at the moment. This will help you get better shots each time you pick up your camera!

Buy on Etsy, Walmart, eBay (subject to availability)

Panasonic Lumix LX100 II Large Four Thirds 21.7 MP Multi Aspect Sensor 24-75mm Leica DC - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Ricoh GR III Street Edition Metallic Gray Digital Camera (International Model) - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Sony RX100 VII Premium Compact Camera with 1.0-type stacked CMOS sensor (DSCRX100M7) - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

Nikon Z50 Compact Mirrorless Digital Camera with Flip Under Selfie/Vlogger LCD, Body - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

Fujifilm X-Pro3 Mirrorless Digital Camera - Dura Silver (Body Only) - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Fujifilm X-S10 Mirrorless Camera Body- Black, X-S10 Body- Black - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

Canon Mirrorless Camera [EOS M6 Mark II](Body) for Vlogging|CMOS (APS-C) Sensor| Dual - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Body Black - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Leica M10 Digital Rangefinder Camera (Silver) - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II Digital Camera w/ 1 Inch Sensor, Wi-Fi & NFC Enabled, Black - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

Ricoh GR III Digital Compact Camera, 24mp, 28mm F 2.8 Lens with Touch Screen LCD - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Fujifilm X-T4 Mirrorless Camera Body - Black - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Sony Alpha A6600 Mirrorless Camera - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

Canon EOS M6 Mark II Mirrorless Camera for Vlogging + - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Nikon Z50 Compact Mirrorless Digital Camera with Flip Under - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

OLYMPUS OM-D E-M5 Mark III Body Silver - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Fujifilm X100V Digital Camera - Silver - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

Sony RX100 VII Shooting Grip Kit - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II Digital Camera w/ 1 Inch - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

Ricoh GR III Digital Compact Camera, 24mp, 28mm F 2.8 Lens - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

Conclusion for Street Camera Buyers

In conclusion, if you're looking for a reliable street camera that can help you capture high-quality photos and videos in any environment, then look no further than the cameras listed above. Each of these cameras are designed to withstand all kinds of weather conditions and is perfect for capturing fast-moving objects - whether it be in a busy city or in the wilderness. So what are you waiting for? Head on over to one of these retailers and invest in your very own street camera today!

Thanks again for reading our guide on the best cameras for street photgraphy available today. We hope this article has helped you choose the right camera to get started with your photography hobby, or to enhance your existing skills. Good luck!

More from Click and Learn Photography:

11 best lenses for wildlife photography

6 quickfire photography tips for beginners

Composition tips: The rule of thirds explained

Getting it right: The best settings for night photography

About Alex W.

Alex is the owner and lead writer for Click and Learn Photography. An avid landscape, equine, and pet photographer living and working in the beautiful Lake District, UK, Alex has had his work featured in a number of high profile publications, including the Take a View Landscape Photographer of the Year, Outdoor Photographer of the Year, and Amateur Photographer Magazine.

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