6 Best camera for product photography under $500: (2024 Guide & Reviews)

Last Updated on December 4, 2023 by Sharon Advik

Product photography is skilled work that requires proper focus and a good camera.

It also includes proper handling of the camera.

Product photography is meant to attract customers, so for this reason, a better camera is needed.

It is done for advertisements and e-commerce businesses to show their products.

It is also an essential tool for any business and if you want to do any advertising.

This type of photography has always interested me, and I have always enjoyed it.

I have used many different cameras in my journey of product photography, but each camera has its features and specifications, which I will share below.

Which are the Best camera for product photography under $500?

Here are my recommended top 6 Best camera for product photography under $500:

Canon EOS Rebel T7: (best cameras for product photography under $500)

A friend recently started a small business selling handmade wooden crafts.

He was having trouble getting high-quality product photos for his online shop, and I wanted to help him.

I researched and found that the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is an excellent camera for photographers who want to take professional-looking product photos.

I decided to buy this camera for my thrilled friend.

It was also a very reasonable price for me.

One of the best cameras for product photography under $500 that offers many features.

Features:

Connectivity to NFC
Wireless Face Detection
Focusing Built-in
FHD at 30 fps
HD 60 fps video recording
Internal optical viewfinder for video recording
24.0MP – High-Resolution Sensor
920k-Dot LCD Resolution
475g Light Body

ISO/shutter speed:

This Canon has a maximum native ISO of 6400 and a boost option, increasing it to 12800.

I use it at the maximum shutter speed of roughly 30-1/4,000 sec.

The camera also offers a variety of manual controls, including the ability to adjust the shutter speed, aperture, and ISO, which give me more creative control over the final product.

Aperture/field of view:

When I use it, I usually get fantastic results when I set the aperture to: f/3.5 – 22 (wide) / f/5.6 – 38. (tele).

In addition, the Canon T7 boasts face recognition AF, which intelligently detects any faces in the picture and locks the focus afterward.

The viewfinder is a standard entry-level DSLR pentamirror with a 21mm eye point and around 95% horizontal and vertical coverage.

White balance/frame rate:

The camera has a maximum frame rate of 3.0 fps (frames per second).

A camera’s automated white balance (AWB) point detects its surroundings and adjusts the white balance automatically.

Even though there are other options, I usually strike a balance with the white bus.

Why is this camera the best?

Its 24.1-megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4+ Image Processor impressed me, which deliver clear and detailed images.

I also liked its built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, making transferring photos to a computer or mobile device easy.

My friend immediately started taking photos of his products and was amazed by the difference in quality compared to his previous camera.

Conclusion:

I am happy that I was able to help my friend improve the visual aspect of his business and hopefully attract more customers.

I am confident that this camera will continue to serve my friend well and help him grow his business.

Investing in quality photography equipment is essential for any business, and I am glad I could support my friend in this way.

Pros
  • 24MP image sensor.
  • On-screen shooting guide.
  • Raw support.
  • Sharp LCD.
  • Wi-Fi-enabled.
  • Inexpensive.
Cons
  • Fixed rear LCD without touch input.
  • Dated image processor limits high ISO capture.
  • Autofocus is not available when recording video.
  • Slow 3fps burst rate.

Panasonic Lumix FZ80: (best cameras for product photography under $500)

I recently landed a megaproject from a client that required high-quality product photography.

I realized my current camera equipment wasn’t up to the task and started researching options.

I also wanted a camera at an affordable price.

After reading numerous reviews and comparing features, I purchased a Panasonic Lumix FZ80.

This camera turned out to be magnificent for me.

One of the best cameras for product photography under $500 has a good zoom lens.

Features:

Enormous 60x zoom range
10fps
Quick autofocus
Raw capture
Touch LCD
30fps 4K photo capture

ISO/shutter speed:

I changed the ISO to 800 and the shutter to 1/1000 a second to ensure my pictures were bright and crisp.

The camera has a maximum FZ80’s native ISO is 3200; boost mode can be increased to 6400.

It produces high-quality images and movies that surpass its tacky look.

Aperture/field of view:

I took stunning pictures, including its 18.1 megapixel MOS lens and 60x optical zoom.

Aperture and depth of field adjustments were also possible, with a spectrum of f/2.8 to f/8.

It has the same field of vision as a full-frame camera’s 20mm lens.

White balance/frame rate:

I could capture the colors of the surrounding surroundings flawlessly thanks to the white balance feature, and I could also readily film fast-moving situations thanks to the frame rate.

The camera’s automated white balance (AWB) point senses its surroundings and automatically corrects the white balance.

The frame rate is 60 fps for recording in full HD, and for recording in 4K, it is 30 fps.

Why is this camera the best?

I was drawn to this camera because of its 60x zoom lens, allowing me to capture detailed images of the products from different angles without moving closer physically.

Its large imaging sensor would produce sharp, clear images with minimal noise.

I also appreciated this camera’s various manual controls and customizable settings, which would give me more creative control over the final product.

Conclusion:

I am confident that this camera will help me deliver high-quality product photography for my client and help me grow my business.

Its 4K video recording capabilities open new possibilities for showcasing my clients’ products.

I can create high-quality product demonstrations and highlight reels, which can be an excellent tool for marketing and promotion.

Pros
  • Huge 60x zoom range.
  • Fast autofocus.
  • 10fps Raw capture.
  • 30fps 4K Photo capture.
  • Touch LCD.
  • Sharp EVF.
  • Wi-Fi.
Cons
  • No EVF eye sensor.
  • Fixed rear LCD.
  • Limited Raw buffer.
  • Omits 24fps video capture.
  • Telephoto video shows wobble effect.

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III: (best cameras for product photography under $500)

I am a part-time business owner, and I recently decided to participate in a local business exhibition to promote my products.

I realized that high-quality product images were essential to attracting potential customers and standing out.

I researched and found that the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III was an excellent option for product photography.

I decided to purchase it and have been extremely happy with my decision.

One of the best cameras for product photography under $500 that offers high-quality images

Features:

20.4 MP Effective Megapixel
Sensor for images: 17.4 x 13 mm
ISO (200 to 25,600)
(1/8000 second) shutter speed
Dual SD, SDHC, and SDXC slots
3-inch LCD (full articulation)
Size: 134 by 91mm
Size: 580 g

ISO/shutter speed:

I could either manually or automatically set the ISO sensitivity on this camera.

The native ISO range for it is 200 to 6400.

I found a shutter speed of 1/30 a second produced sufficiently crisp photographs.

Aperture/field of view:

Its aperture can also go to f/2.8, much like every other Olympus camera.

I also appreciate that the camera has a variety of creative modes and manual controls that I can use to experiment and enhance my photography skills.

Since the field of vision is 100%, the composition in the EVF and the final image are the same.

White balance/frame rate:

I often adjust the white balance manually.

On the other hand, I let the camera handle this model.

Therefore, I select the AWB setting at 30 frames per second for smooth video shots.

Additionally, it had an intuitive user interface, making it easy for me to navigate and use even if I wasn’t a professional photographer.

Why is this camera the best?

I liked its compact design, making it easy to carry and maneuver during the exhibition.

The camera also had a high-resolution image sensor, allowing me to capture sharp and clear photos of my products.

Conclusion:

The camera has helped me take stunning photos of my products, which I have been able to use for advertising and marketing purposes.

I am confident that my investment in this camera will pay off in the long run, helping me to grow my business and reach more customers.

Pros
  • Compact, solid design.
  • Built-in EVF and flash.
  • Tilting touch LCD.
  • 8.8fps burst shooting.
  • In-body stabilization.
  • Raw and JPG capture.
  • In-camera art filters.
  • Wi-Fi.
Cons
  • 16MP sensor seems dated.
  • Tracking focus slows speed to 4fps.
  • 4K video is not easily accessible.
  • No Bluetooth or NFC.

Canon EOS Rebel SL3: (best cameras for product photography under $500)

I was approached by a company that needed product photography for its online store.

They were impressed with my previous work and asked if I could take on the job.

I was excited about the opportunity and immediately started researching the best equipment.

After much consideration, I decided to purchase the Canon EOS Rebel SL3.

I started using this camera for product photography and was blown away by the results.

One of the best cameras for product photography under $500 that offers clear and sharp images.

Features:

4K at 25 fps
Articulating screen
FHD 60fps video recording
Internal optical viewfinder
Touch Screen
Face Detection
Focusing on 1.04 million pixels
LCD Resolution
24.0 MP – High-Resolution Sensor
External Microphone Port
1 Cross-Type Focusing Points

ISO/shutter speed:

The camera features a native ISO range of 100 to 25,600 and nine AF points.

Its unique touch screen has stolen my heart.

For me, its wireless networking was also quite useful.

The shutter speed I always use is 30-1/4000 seconds.

Aperture/field of view:

I used f/5.6 as the aperture setting for that comparison.

I made the right decision in purchasing this camera because it feels like every one of its features was created with me in mind.

Excellent Live View focus is available.

Its finder has a 0.54x magnification ratio and a 95% coverage rate.

I was also impressed with its autofocus system, which made capturing the perfect shot effortless.

White balance/frame rate:

The white balance option let me perfectly catch the colors of the surroundings, and the frame rate allowed me to film quickly-moving events easily.

A camera’s automated white balance (AWB) point detects its surroundings and adjusts the white balance automatically.

It can record in 1080p or high Definition at up to 60 frames per second and 4k at 24 or 25 frames per second.

Why is this camera the best?

I knew this camera would provide me with the versatility, image quality, and ease of use I needed for the job.

I also appreciated its compact size, which made it easy to transport and set up on location.

The camera gave me clear and sharp images, even in low-light conditions.

Conclusion:

I am thrilled with my purchase of this camera.

It has made my job as a product photographer much easier and has allowed me to deliver high-quality images to my clients.

I am confident that it will continue to serve me well.

It has proved to be a valuable investment for my photography business.

Pros
  • Compact.
  • Vari-angle touch LCD.
  • 1080p video with good autofocus.
  • External mic support.
  • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Cons
  • 4K video shows heavy crop and choppy focus.
  • Autofocus struggles with action.
  • Not as capable as mirrorless alternatives.

Canon EOS M50: (best cameras for product photography under $500)

When I started my career as a freelance photographer, I used to work on a variety of projects.

But one day, I got an offer from a mist and deodorant company to work on their product photography project.

I was excited about the opportunity but soon realized that my current camera wasn’t suitable for capturing such small objects in detail.

I started researching and came across the Canon EOS M50.

I decided to invest in the Canon EOS M50, which was a great decision.

One of the best cameras for product photography under $500 that offers high-resolution image quality

Features:

24 fps in 4K video recording
Touch screen
FHD at 60 fps
HD at 120 fps
Face detection
Electronic built-in viewfinder
High-Resolution Sensor
143 Focus Points and 24.0 MP

ISO/shutter speed:

You can increase its ISO range to ISO-51200.

Its shutter speed ranges from 30 to 1/4000 seconds, enabling photographers to take 4K photos!

Because I found utilizing it so enjoyable, I did so under practically all circumstances.

Aperture/field of view:

The aperture range that I use is f/3.5 – f/22 (W) / f/6.3 – f/40 (T).

It has a 24.2-megapixel APS-C Main camera with 2,360k dots of resolution and 100% coverage.

It enables me to frame things more precisely, lessening the need for post-processing cropping.

White balance/frame rate:

The camera’s automated white balance (AWB) point senses its surroundings and automatically corrects the white balance.

With single-shot autofocus, the camera can shoot up to 10 frames per second, and with continuous autofocus, it can capture 7.4 frames per second.

The efforts made by Canon to position the functions reasonably well and to make them accessible are impressive.

Why is this camera the best?

Its high-resolution image quality, fast autofocus, and portability impressed me.

I also loved that it had a flip-out touchscreen, making it easier to take photos from different angles.

The camera exceeded my expectations and helped me deliver top-notch product photos to my client.

The pictures were sharp, clear, and captured all the client-required details.

Conclusion:

I am delighted with my purchase, which has helped me take my photography to the next level.

This camera is excellent for product photography, and I am glad I invested.

I am now confident in tackling any product photography project that comes my way and delivering high-quality results thanks to this camera.

Pros
  • Compact.
  • 24MP APS-C image sensor.
  • 10fps burst.
  • 7.4fps with tracking.
  • Wide focus coverage area.
  • Vari-angle touch LCD.
  • Mic input.
  • EVF.
  • Wi-Fi.
Cons
  • 4K video is cropped with slower autofocus.
  • Native lens options are still limited.
  • Limited shots when shooting Raw bursts.

Nikon D5500: (best cameras for product photography under $500)

I started my journey with photography as a hobby.

However, my cousin’s furniture startup business required professional product photography.

I knew that this was an opportunity to not only support my cousin but also to refine my photography skills.

I researched and discovered that the Canon Nikon D5500 was the perfect camera for product photography.

I made the purchase and started taking photos for my cousin’s business.

One of the best cameras for product photography under $500 that offers fast autofocus

Features:

24MP picture sensor.
Fantastic image quality
39 AF points.
Continuous shooting-5 fps.
Quick operation.
1080p/60 video recording.
Bluetooth
Wi-Fi connectivity.
Support for an external mic

ISO/shutter speed:

It has a sensitivity range of ISO 100 to 25,600 and may be used in various lighting conditions.

The maximum shutter speed is 1/4000 seconds.

I was impressed with the image quality and the camera’s ability to capture fine details.

Aperture/field of view:

I always use it with the aperture set to f/3.5 to 22. (W).

I also appreciated the variable-angle touchscreen display, making taking photos from different angles easier.

The photographs produced by the 24.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor have exceptional resolution.

White balance/frame rate:

It can capture 1080p video at a 60p high frame rate, ideal for catching moving objects or producing smooth, slow-motion scenes.

You can have more influence over the audio you record by adding an extra recorder with a 3.5mm input.

A camera’s automated white balance (AWB) point detects its surroundings and adjusts the white balance automatically.

Why is this camera the best?

I liked that it had a high-resolution sensor, fast autofocus, and built-in WiFi for easy transfer of photos.

The results were stunning, and I received positive feedback from my cousin and customers.

I was proud to have played a small role in helping my cousin’s business grow.

Conclusion:

I realized that this camera was more than just a camera; it was a tool that allowed me to capture and share the beauty of the world around me.

I was glad I invested and looked forward to using the camera for many more photography adventures.

Pros
  • Omits optical low-pass filter.
  • Sharp vari-angle touch display.
  • Solid detail at high ISOs.
  • 5fps continuous shooting.
  • 39-point AF system.
  • Quick startup.
  • 1080p60 video.
  • Integrated Wi-Fi.
  • External mic support.
Cons
  • Smaller body means controls are somewhat cramped.
  • Pentamirror viewfinder.
  • No GPS.
  • It will not autofocus with screw-drive lenses.
  • Limited Wi-Fi remote control.
  • Self-timer deactivates after use.
  • Lacks depth of field preview.

CONCLUSION:

Alright, guys, that concludes all the cameras we will discuss today in this article.

Do you guys have any experience with these cameras? What are your thoughts on them?

Which is your Best camera for product photography under $500?

Is there a camera you love to use for product photography that I didn’t mention in this article?

Would you please leave your thoughts and comments below?

Related post:

Best cameras for product photography:

Best lens for close-up shots:

Leave a Comment