10 Best Canon Cameras for Professional Photography

I’m not going to guide you by price in this review of the ten best Canon cameras for professional photography. That’s not because I’m flush with cash. Nor are most professional photographers! But professional photography is one area where “your ship really can be spoiled for a ha’p’orth of tar.” (Which means you may not want to scrimp.)

Have you decided to take the plunge and invest in a pro-level Canon camera? Our top pick is Canon EOS 1D X Mark III. But this guide will help you navigate to the best Canon Camera specifically for you!

Canon’s pro heavyweight still packs a punch!

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I’ve been interested in photography for more than 40 years. In the early years, it seemed like Nikon was the camera of choice for press photographers of all flavors. That balance shifted with the introduction of the Canon F-1 SLR. And now, Canon is dominant in a market with many quality camera brands.

With this review, I’m going to assume two things. First, you are seriously considering buying a pro-grade Canon camera. And second, you can be persuaded even if you haven’t chosen Canon yet.

What is the Best Canon Camera for Professional Photography?

I said, in effect, money was no object. But I have made some concessions. Some of the choices here are older models that you’ll find widely available in the used market. Some are also available as “renewed” on Amazon. So here’s a quick roundup of my top picks for the best Canon cameras for professional photography.

10 Best Canon Cameras for Professional Photography

I’ve researched the current best Canon cameras, both new and used. And I bring you this review of pro-level DSLRs and mirrorless cameras.

1. Canon EOS-1D X Mark III

2. Canon EOS R3

3. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

4. Canon EOS R5

5. Canon EOS 6D Mark II

6. Canon EOS R6

7. Canon EOS RP

8. Canon EOS-1 D X Mark II

9. Canon EOS 5D Mark III

10. Canon EOS 6D

Camera Type	Camera Type DSLR
Megapixels	Megapixels 20.2 MP
Sensor Format	Sensor Format Full Frame
Sensor Size	Sensor Size 24 x 36 mm
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 4.5 fps
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 11

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Pros

• Affordable full frame EOS camera
• Great low-light performance
• Good ergonomics for handling
• Light, durable magnesium alloy shell
• Convenient GPS and Wi-Fi connectivity

Cons

• Slow continuous burst shooting by modern standards
• Limited number of AF points
• No in-body image stabilization to minimize camera shake
• Only one memory card slot

It’s nearly ten years since the release of the Canon EOS 6D. So in the fast-moving digital camera world, it’s almost a dinosaur. The 6D also fails the test that “you must have two cards.” But this Canon camera offers you a 20.2 MP CMOS sensor for not that much money.

It also adds an autofocus system that can operate down to -3 EV and a 100 to 25,600 ISO range. Some often see it as a poor person’s alternative to the 5D Mark III above. But it has some features, like GPS and Wi-Fi, that its more expensive cousin doesn’t.

Burst shooting at 4.5 fps is pretty decent. And the layout of the controls is similar to many more expensive Canon cameras. It’s a design that has stood the test of time. And Canon has honed it in response to feedback from demanding professional photographers.

You won’t get all the bells and whistles of the more expensive and the very best Canon camera in this review. But you get a great full frame Canon camera at a pretty bargain price.

Our Verdict

For the moment, I think that the DSLR still reigns in the world of professional photographers. But I don’t think this will always be the case. And in many ways, this review was a head-to-head between the two heavyweights among Canon cameras—the EOS-1D X Mark III and the EOS R3.

In a split decision, the title went to the DSLR. And part of that is the native availability of such a wide range of new and used lenses that fit the EF-mount. After all, if you’re spending over $6000 on a new camera, you might want to save some pennies on lenses.

Canon EOS 1D X Mark III

Canon’s pro heavyweight still packs a punch!

See Full Specs >

So the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III wins in our review of the best canon cameras for professional photography. But the strength of competition from Canon’s mirrorless cameras is growing by the week.

Buying Guide for the Best Canon Camera

So you’ve decided to “go professional,” at least with your equipment. Let me say there is a joy to be had in experiencing the quality and qualities of a pro-level camera. Although there might be financial pain, there are rewards. And if you’re charging people for your photography work, then you need quality, ease of use, and reliability.

Why Buy Full Frame Cameras?

Whether a Canon DSLR or mirrorless camera, you don’t want to think about anything smaller than a full frame sensor. (No compact cameras here). There are benefits beyond raw pixel count. The pixels on a 20 MP full frame sensor can be bigger. They, therefore, receive more light than a crop sensor.

Wide-angle photography is easier to achieve with a full frame sensor. And the depth of field is narrower. Like any major manufacturer, Canon does not throw a full frame sensor into any old junk of a body. They know that only serious photographers will buy a full frame camera. Plus, they can’t afford to lose the confidence and approval of this core group of customers. They are demanding but largely loyal.

Should You Buy DSLR Cameras or Mirrorless Models?

In general, a mirrorless camera will outperform a DSLR. But what you anticipate your main areas of photography work to be will influence your choice. I suspect many professional photographers would confess they do more video work now than expected. So be realistic about your needs.

Six years ago, I asked the opinion of a friend and professional photographer, Stuart Boreham. He has 30 years of experience as a professional photographer. So what does he think about mirrorless cameras? He said, “I don’t.” Times have changed and are changing.

What About Compatible Lenses for Canon Cameras?

Part of the pain of buying a pro-level camera? There is no point—none at all—in putting cheap lenses on it. A fabulous sensor can only process the light that reaches it. So factor in the cost of lenses. Used lenses make more sense than used bodies. That’s because you can test for most defects before you purchase.

Conclusion

Canon is a leading producer of professional digital cameras. That’s great news because, ultimately, none of these cameras will likely disappoint you in any major way.

Our recent guide to Canon camera types may be useful to new Canon shooters. Or, if you’re still looking for your perfect camera, try our posts on the best camera for family photography or best affordable camera for landscape photography next!