Want to capture those dreamy night sky, galaxies, blinking stars? If yes, then the very first step towards the same is getting your hands on the best camera for night sky photography. Doesn’t matter if you are just starting off on your photography journey or already have some experience, a right camera can definitely change the entire game. There is no doubt that the market offers ample options for capturing the night sky but it is both an advantage and a disadvantage at the same time.
The advantage is that you get to select the best camera for night sky photography from vast options. Whereas the disadvantage is that too many options creates confusion and thus you can’t select the one. But let us erase off this disadvantage by short listing the top five night sky photography cameras. But before that we’ll be sharing a few important pointers that one should definitely consider before finalizing their purchase.
Why Special Cameras For Night Sky ?
Many of you might still think that a camera is a camera be it for night shoots or day shoots. But the fact is too far from this. There is a different camera for each need. Thus you need a special night sky camera that offers excellent low-light performance. Because unlike day shoots where you get natural light, the night sky shoots are challenging and unique. So you need to opt for a camera that offers superb light gathering capabilities.
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Sensor Size
Further, while selecting the best camera for night sky photography, sensor size plays a crucial role. One should pick the camera with a full-frame sensor. Because it has the capability to gather more light. So you can expect the pictures to be clear and with no digital noise even at higher ISO. Additionally, full-frame sensors provide a wider view so you can click an expansive Milky way view.
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Megapixels
Next up, when it comes to astrophotography, a camera with higher megapixels is not always a good choice. You can strike a perfect balance by choosing a camera with around 20-30 MP and a full-frame sensor. With this you’ll get a picture which showcases complete detailing without excessive digital noises.
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High ISO
A best camera for night sky photography must work extremely well in dim-light conditions. This performance depends on the ISO. A good camera allows you to push ISO high without introducing noise or making picture grainy. So pick a camera which is known for its clean high ISO files. With advancement in technology, now we have cameras that feature advanced noise reduction technologies in addition to special low light modes. So with this you get to amp up the overall night sky photography skills.
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Lens
If you are keen on capturing milky way or constellations then a camera with wide angle lens is non-negotiable. Go for a focal length between 14mm and 24mm.
Apart from this a best camera for night sky photography must allow for manual focus, should offer long battery life and must offer image stabilization.
Recommended Camera Models
Based on our research and reviews from potential night sky photographers, we have come up with these recommendations:
✓ Nikon Z8
The first one is the Nikon Z8. It is the best camera for night sky photography that is available there in the market. Comes with a 45.7MP stacked sensor. Delivers to the mark low-light performance. Further it comes with some astro-specific features like night vision mode alongside illuminated buttons.
✓ Sony A7 IV
Next up, comes A7 IV from Sony. This one is a full-frame mirrorless camera. It is well-known for its amazing high ISO performance and controls that are customizable. Sony A7 IV has a unique feature named “Bright Monitoring” which turns out to be an advantage for clicking in the dark. So this one is also an excellent choice for the best camera for night sky photography.
✓ Canon EOS R8
Canon EOS R8 is compact as well as lightweight. So it becomes flexible and convenient at the same time to shoot with this one. It is a full-frame camera that delivers exceptional high ISO performance. It features a powerful and strong DIGIC X image processor which contributes towards low-light performance and noise reduction.
✓ Nikon D850
Nikon D850 also marks its entry into the title of best camera for night sky photography. This one comes with a 45MP sensor. It offers stupendous battery life, and its illuminated buttons are beneficial for astrophotography. Further there is absence of optical low pass filter (OLPF) which means the sensor can capture fine details and can also pinpoint stars. The high ISO performance further makes it a perfect choice.
✓ Canon EOS R6
Yet another masterpiece is EOS R6 from Canon. This one features a 20MP full-frame sensor. It performs extremely well in low light and manages the digital noise very well. Further with In-body image stabilization, fully articulating touch screen and bright electronic viewfinder, this one is a complete package and thus makes itself considerable for the best camera for night sky photography.
✓ Pentax K-1 II
K-1 II from Pentax is a sturdy, weather proof DSLR camera. It comes with a 36.4 MP full frame sensor. In addition it has the AA filter. Its large sensor captures ample light thus it is capable of delivering superb low-light performance. This one features astrotracer which is completely a game-changer for astrophotography. Again with IBIS, illuminated buttons and flexible tilt LCD monitor, it turns out to be a great choice for night sky photography.
So with this we close our list for the best camera for night sky photography. You can select one that aligns with your monetary budget and needs.
