The best camera for portraits in 2024: cameras that are perfect for people pics

Portrait shoot with a photographer photographing a model under a blue light
(Image credit: James Artaius)

When looking for the best camera for portraits, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. Having the right lens is crucial, as you need to be able to shoot at a flattering focal length and separate subject from background. But the camera itself can confer all sorts of advantages, from sophisticated eye-detection autofocus to advanced image stabilization for hand-held sharpness.

The sensor size is also a significant factor. The larger the sensor, the easier it is to get the kind of clean separation of subject and background that characterises great portraiture. This gives full-frame cameras and medium format cameras an advantage, but you shouldn't rule out APS-C or Micro Four Thirds cameras with the right lenses.

Gareth Bevan headshot
Gareth Bevan

Gareth is the Reviews Editor at Digital Camera World and the person in charge of approving all the latest camera-related tech. With several years of experience as a professional portrait photographer, he knows exactly what to look for (and avoid) when choosing a camera for portraiture. Outside of photography, expect to find him cycling around London, or deep in a Netflix binge.

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Lab resultsScoreRating
Resolution (ISO 200)59/60★★★★★
Dynamic range (ISO 200)12 EV★★★★
Noise (ISO 200)40 decibels★★★★
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Lab resultsScoreRating
Resolution (ISO 200)58/60★★★★★
Noise (ISO 200)48 decibels★★★★★
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Lab resultsScoreRating
Resolution (ISO 200)45/60★★★★★
Dynamic range (ISO 200)11 EV★★★
Noise (ISO 200)40 decibels★★★★
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Lab resultsScoreRating
Resolution (ISO 200)24/60★★★
Dynamic range (ISO 200)12 EV★★★★
Noise (ISO 200)43 decibels★★★★
Gareth Bevan
Reviews Editor

Gareth is a photographer based in London, working as a freelance photographer and videographer for the past several years, having the privilege to shoot for some household names. With work focusing on fashion, portrait and lifestyle content creation, he has developed a range of skills covering everything from editorial shoots to social media videos. Outside of work, he has a personal passion for travel and nature photography, with a devotion to sustainability and environmental causes.

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