In this article, we are going to review the best camera for cooking videos besides a few other fantastic models for food photos and videography.
Short recipes or cooking videos have become a very popular trend on social media. They offer visual guidance to creating some of the most delicious dishes from around the globe. Foodies who want to try different recipes at home take a special interest in these videos. Some of the people who make food videos have turned into internet sensations.
You can start your own YouTube food channel and start creating viral recipe videos provided you know the proper techniques and have the right gear including the camera. Smartphones can help you get going in food videography but you need to have a proper camera if you want to take your videos to the next level.
Our Top 3 Choices for the Best Camera for Cooking Videos in 2024.
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Best Recipe and Food Cameras
The following are the best cameras for cooking videos according to our experts. They would help you record excellent food videos to impress your viewers.
We have chosen these cameras based on various factors such as video and audio quality, video resolution, frame rates, megapixels, image stabilization, autofocus, closing distance, and others.
1. Canon EOS R5: Best Camera for Cooking Videos
Canon EOS R5 is one of the most powerful and feature-rich cameras in the world. It makes making food videos a breeze through a whopping 45-megapixel sensor, DIGIC X image processor, 8K/30p video resolution, and 20fps continuous shooting speed with the electronic shutter.
Features
You can also create beautiful slow-motion videos of foods thanks to the 4K/120fps recording option. 8K and 4K video shooting are also possible in 10-bit 4:2:2 bit, offering rich and accurate colors.
The 5-axis image stabilization ensures smooth handheld shots. Similarly, the 1053-point lightning-fast autofocus easily and accurately tracks subjects. The Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus and internal recording are available in all video modes, enabling you to record food videos with outstanding clarity.
The 45 megapixels and DIGIC X image process combine to produce stellar food images as well. The wireless connectivity is also convenient because of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth options.
Drawbacks
The only issue with Canon EOS R5 is the high price tag. However, it is the best camera for food videos if you can afford it.
Our Verdict
The Canon EOS R5 Full-Frame Mirrorless camera is one of the best cameras in the world at the moment. Therefore, you can use it for almost anything including cooking videos.
Advantages
- Rich and accurate colors
- 45 megapixels sensor
- 8K and 4K video resolution
- Slow-motion capture
- DIGIC X image processor
- 5-axis image stabilization
- Very fast and accurate autofocus
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
- Produces stellar images
- Excellent video quality
Disadvantages
- The camera is quite expensive
| Canon EOS R5 Mirrorless | Amazon.com |
| Canon EOS R5 Mirrorless | B&H Photo |
| Canon EOS R5 Mirrorless | Walmart |
| Canon EOS R5 Mirrorless | Adorama |
2. Sony Alpha a6400: Best Camera for Food Vlogging
Sony Alpha a6400 is a midrange mirrorless option for food videos. It is a very popular camera both for stills and videos because of its superb features and functions.
Features
One of Sony’s bestselling cameras is particularly great for videos. The 20.1 megapixels backlit Exmore CMOS sensor captures a lot of details while the world’s fastest Autofocus with 4D Focus keeps everything in focus with the utmost ease. The real-time AF tracking and advanced real-time Eye autofocus give a new perspective to your videos.
The maximum video resolution of the camera is 4K/30fps but it also has Full HD at 120fps for super-slow-motion clips. Similarly, the camera has several other professional video features. The videos in general have exceptional depth and details.
It is also a very fast camera with 11fps continuous shooting speed if you want to capture stills as well. The 3-inch 180° tilting touchscreen is customizable for vlogging and makes it very easy to use the camera with a tripod.
Drawbacks
The in-body image stabilization is not the best but it is better than nothing. You must look for other cameras if you often shoot handheld photos and videos.
Our Verdict
Sony Alpha a6400 helps you highlight the true colors and tastes of your recipes. It falls on the lower end of the price spectrum but has excellent video features.
Advantages
- Affordable camera
- Superfast autofocus
- Sharp details and great depth
- 11fps continuous shooting speed
- Powerful sensor
- 4K/30fps and Full HD/120fps
- Professional video features
- 3-inch 180° tilting screen
Disadvantages
- Image stabilization is not the best
| Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless | Amazon.com |
| Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless | B&H Photo |
| Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless | Walmart |
| Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless | Adorama |
3. Sony a7 III Full-Frame Camera: Best Camera for Food Bloggers
Sony a7 III Full-Frame is yet another fantastic mirrorless camera for food vlogging. You must consider this camera if you don’t want to compromise on the quality of your videos.
Features
It allows you to record stunning recipe videos in 4K. Similarly, the Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG) technology results in fantastic color contrast and spectacular video quality.
The backlit 24.1-megapixel sensor and BIONZ X image processor also create highly detailed and sharp images. The 5-axis image stabilization removes the camera shakes and keeps the footage steady. It is especially useful while swapping between tripods and handheld videos without missing anything.
The superfast 639-point phase detection and 425-point contrast detection considerably improve the focus and tracking of the subjects.
The continuous shooting speed of 10fps is quite impressive for taking quick images without missing any action. Similarly, the screen is not true vari-angle besides there is no in-body flash as well.
Drawbacks
Available for around $2000, the Sony a7 III is quite an expensive camera. Not many people, especially new vloggers can afford it. But if you can, it can create fabulous food vlogs for you.
Our Verdict
Sony a7 III is an excellent choice for cooking videos because of its 4K video resolution, minimal moiré, and full-pixel readout. In short, it provides detailed and sharp footage.
Advantages
- Incredible picture quality
- Full-frame camera
- 5-axis image stabilization
- Very good autofocus
- 4K videos
- BIONZ X image processor
- Powerful sensor
- 10fps continuous shooting speed
Disadvantages
- Expensive camera
- No in-body flash
- Not true vari-angle
| Sony a7 III Full-Frame | Amazon.com |
| Sony a7 III Full-Frame | B&H Photo |
| Sony a7 III Full-Frame | Walmart |
| Sony a7 III Full-Frame | Adorama |
4. Panasonic Lumix G100: Best Micro Four Thirds Camera for Cooking Videos
Panasonic Lumix G100 is an everyday mirrorless camera that you can also use for cooking videos. The lightweight and portable Micro Four Thirds camera allows you to take stunning close-ups of recipes. Similarly, it is compatible with a wide range of native lenses including several macro lenses.
Features
It is easy to compose food videos from strange angles due to the fully articulating touchscreen. The camera may not have high autofocus points but they are spread across the frame. Furthermore, an array of manual focusing options helps you improve your focusing.
G100 also has features like Peak Focusing and Focus Magnifier. The 20.3-megapixel sensor is quite capable of producing sharp and detailed images.
Just like other Panasonic cameras, it allows you to record in 4K but also extracts 4K photos from the videos.
The camera seamlessly integrates with smartphones and shares files with them without any hassle.
Drawbacks
The lack of in-body image stabilization is a serious issue when it comes to shooting videos. The 4K video is highly cropped and it even eliminates video angles as wide as 12mm. On top of that, you can only shoot for 10 minutes in 4K.
Our Verdict
All in all, the Panasonic Lumix G100 is a very good option to record cooking videos both for novices and professionals alike. However, you have to contend with highly cropped 4K video as well.
Advantages
- Affordable camera
- 4K videos and 4K photos
- Excellent audio quality
- Easy to share files with smartphones
- Manual focusing
- Stunning close-ups
- Fully articulating touchscreen
- Good video quality
Advantages
- No in-body image stabilization
- Highly cropped 4K video
- 10 minutes 4K video limit
| Panasonic Lumix G100 | Amazon.com |
| Panasonic Lumix G100 | B&H Photo |
| Panasonic Lumix G100 | Walmart |
| Panasonic Lumix G100 | Adorama |
5. DJI OSMO Pocket 3: Best Budget Camera for Cooking Videos
You must go for DJI Osmo Pocket 3 if you are looking for a compact vlogging camera. It easily fits into your pocket, allowing you to shoot silky-smooth videos without carrying extra weight. Similarly, it can surprisingly match the video quality of much bigger and more expensive cameras like the Sony ZV-1.
Features
DJI Pocket 3 considerably improves on its predecessor the DJI Osmo Pocket 2. It comes with a three-axis gimbal ensuring sharp and smooth videos. Similarly, it can record 4K videos at 120p. Therefore, it is a great option for shooting slow-motion videos.
The 10-megapixel sensor is at par with most smartphones these days. However, it offers a considerable upgrade versus smartphones due to features like the 1-inch sensor. It is also one of the best vlogging cameras because of its 2-inch rear LCD.
The 1-inch sensor enables you to shoot multi-aspect videos. It also improves the camera’s resolution and low-light capabilities. Similarly, you can easily shift between horizontal 16:9 videos and a vertical aspect ratio using the rear LCD.
Drawbacks
Although we are talking about videos here, your camera should provide excellent photos as well. Unfortunately, DJI Pocket 3’s 10 MP sensor is not good enough for taking sharp videos. You should also avoid it if you are happy with your current smartphone.
Our Verdict
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 will cost around $1000. However, it is worth it especially if you do not want to carry heavy cameras while shooting your videos. The overall video quality is terrific as well.
Advantages
- Large 1-inch sensor
- Rotating screen
- Silky smooth videos
- Multi-aspect video
Disadvantages
- Not good for photos
| DJI Osmo Pocket 3 | Amazon.com |
| DJI Osmo Pocket 3 | B&H Photo |
| DJI Osmo Pocket 3 | Walmart |
| DJI Osmo Pocket 3 | Adorama |
6. Canon EOS 800D/Rebel T7i DSLR Camera: Best Cheap DSLR camera for Food Vloggers
Canon EOS 800D is the best DSLR camera for food photography and videos if the price is your main concern.
Features
800D features a powerful 24.2 megapixels CMOS sensor and a very capable DIGIC 7 image processor. Both the sensor and the processor combine to deliver extremely sharp and detailed shots.
The 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen is ideal for vlogging. Similarly, the camera records in Full HD 1080P at 60fps, making it a great choice for new food vloggers. You can also create Time-Lapse and HDR movies with this camera.
The 5-axis image stabilization minimizes camera shakes and creates steady handheld videos and images.
The Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus with 45-point all Cross-Type phase-detection ensures quick and accurate tracking of the subjects. The 6fps continuous shooting speed is not that bad either.
The connectivity options include both Wi-Fi with NFC and Bluetooth.
Drawbacks
The camera only records in 1080P which can be a major problem for vloggers who want to shoot in higher resolutions.
Our Verdict
Canon EOS 800D/Rebel T7i is the best camera for cooking videos if you are looking for an affordable DSLR to record them.
Advantages
- Fast and accurate autofocus
- Great image stabilization
- 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen
- DIGIC 7 image processor
- Powerful sensor
- Good video quality
- Amazing user interface
Disadvantages
- Only 1080P maximum video resolution
| Canon EOS 800D DSLR | Amazon.com |
| Canon EOS 800D DSLR | B&H Photo |
| Canon EOS 800D DSLR | Walmart |
| Canon EOS 800D DSLR | Adorama |
7. GoPro Max Traditional Camera: Best GoPro for Cooking Videos
GoPro Max is a perfect choice if you want to add some creativity to your videos. It provides different shooting options including traditional GoPro Hero style shooting. It is, in fact, three cameras in one, allowing you to give vent to your creativity.
Features
The most outstanding feature of the GoPro Max is 360 videos in 6K4. The front-facing screen and the shotgun-mic performance also make it a great camera for vlogging.
The Max HyperSmooth image stabilization technology delivers the smoothest and steadiest videos even from a GoPro. Similarly, the revolutionary Horizon Leveling technique keeps the camera steady when you move it from side to side.
Another nice feature is live streaming. You can now live stream your cooking recipes in HERO mode to the whole world even when Max HyperSmooth is active. It is also possible to create unbreakable and mesmerizing motion time-lapse videos in both HERO and 360 modes. The 6-mic sound system delivers stereo sound quality as well.
GoPro Max also has four lenses to choose from including Narrow, Linear, Wide, and the widest of all, the Max SuperView. You can also take 270° panoramic views with one click.
The camera has 12 voice commands as well, allowing you to control it through your voice when your hands are busy.
Drawbacks
The only main problem with the camera is that it heats while recording videos.
Our Verdict
GoPro Max helps you create outstanding content including cooking videos and photos. On top of that, it offers all of the above features for just $499.
Disadvantages
- HyperSmooth video stabilization
- Comes with 4 different lenses
- 6-mic sound system
- Live streaming in 1080P
- Waterproof up to 16 feet
- Excellent time-lapse videos
- 6k at 30fps recording
- 360 Photo
- Very affordable
Disadvantages
- Low megapixels
- Heats while recording videos
| GoPro Max Traditional Camera | Amazon.com |
| GoPro Max Traditional Camera | B&H Photo |
| GoPro Max Traditional Camera | Walmart |
| GoPro Max Traditional Camera | Adorama |
8. Sony ZV-1 Compact Camera: Specially Designed for Content Creators
Sony ZV-1 is the best compact camera in the world at the moment, even better than Canon PowerShot G7X III. It is also quite an affordable camera but still offers impeccable image quality besides some great features for cooking videos.
Features
The superfast autofocus with 315 phase-detection and 425 contrast-detection points tracks the subject in less than 0.3 seconds. Similarly, the closing focusing distance of only 5cm helps you take splendid close-ups of the recipe ingredients.
The built-in image stabilization suppresses camera shakes even if you are recording handheld videos while walking.
The camera has especially been designed for content creators including vloggers. The ‘Product Showcase’ mode, in particular, allows you to create excellent product review videos. The shots are also easier to compose thanks to the side flip-out tiltable LCD.
You can start recording in 4K if you don’t have any prior experience. The simple camera setup for cooking videos or any other videos lets you get going right away.
Sony ZV-1 also has a built-in microphone that delivers good audio quality. However, you can also use an external microphone to further improve the audio.
The lightweight and compact camera is easy to carry and hold.
Drawbacks
Some major drawbacks for vlogging include limited touch controls, limited zoom range, and no electronic viewfinder. Similarly, images are cropped by Active SteadhyShot.
Our Verdict
Sony ZV-1 could be the best camera for cooking videos if not for some of its problems. However, it still is a great choice for vlogging overall.
Advantages
- Superfast autofocus
- Dedicated ‘Product Showcase’ mode
- Lightweight and compact
- Good close focusing distance
- 4K videos
- Excellent LCD
- Designed for content creators
- In-body image stabilization
- Easy camera setup for cooking videos
Disadvantages
- Limited touch controls
- Limited zoom range
- No electronic viewfinder
- SteadhyShot crops 4K
| Sony ZV-1 Compact Camera | Amazon.com |
| Sony ZV-1 Compact Camera | B&H Photo |
| Sony ZV-1 Compact Camera | Walmart |
| Sony ZV-1 Compact Camera | Adorama |
9. Canon EOS R6 Full Frame Mirrorless Camera: Best Camera for Food Photography
Canon EOS R6 is the latest mirrorless camera from Canon. It has a much lower resolution than EOS R5 but it is a much cheaper camera as well.
Features
The main highlight of the camera is the 6072 autofocus points available across the entire frame. The full-frame camera also has other focusing features such as Focus Peaking and Focus Magnifier.
The 3.1-inch fully articulating touchscreen is extremely useful for video making. You can also customize it for vlogging and record videos from awkward angles.
The 20.1-megapixel sensor coupled with the DIGIC X image processor creates food images of the highest quality. The ISO range of 100-102400, expandable to 204800, is also impressive but not necessary for food photography and videos. It is a very fast camera with 12fps and 20fps speeds with a mechanical and electronic shutter respectively.
Unlike R5, the EOS R6 has 4K video capability only. It is also compatible with some RF macro lenses for close-ups of the recipes. Similarly, you can choose from numerous Canon DSLR lenses and use them through an adapter.
Drawbacks
The camera has a low resolution compared to other cameras in the same price range. Similarly, high speed continuous shooting quickly drains the battery.
Our Verdict
All in all, Canon EOS R6 is a good all-rounder. You can use it for all kinds of tasks including for food photography.
Advantages
- Extremely useful touchscreen
- Enormous speed of autofocus points
- DIGIC X image processor
- Very fast camera
- Compatible with RF macro lenses
- 4K videos
- Great sharpness and depth
- Lightweight and compact
Disadvantages
- Low resolution
- Battery drains quickly
| Canon EOS R6 Mirrorless | Amazon.com |
| Canon EOS R6 Mirrorless | B&H Photo |
| Canon EOS R6 Mirrorless | Walmart |
| Canon EOS R6 Mirrorless | Adorama |
10. Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema: One of the Best Cameras for Cooking Videos
Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema is the ultimate camera for cooking videos. It has all the features and functions to help you create extremely detailed and beautiful videos.
Features
The camera records videos of the highest quality courtesy of 4K DKI resolution. Similarly, the videos are detailed and sharper because it records at 60 frames per second.
Pocket Cinema is perhaps the best camera for YouTube cooking videos because of its tremendous audio quality made possible by 4 built-in microphones. Therefore, you don’t need to buy expensive external microphones as well.
The touchscreen interface is also the easiest and the best you can ask for. The 5-inch touch display makes recording vlogs and videos a delight and truly elevates the viewing experience. The camera also has an active Micro Four Thirds lens for captivating close-ups.
Other important features of the camera include carbon fiber reinforced construction, Blackmagic ProRes and Raw options, and an extended-life LP-E6 battery.
Drawbacks
Just like Canon EOS R6, Blackmagic Pocket Camera has a short battery life which may be a hindrance for some vloggers.
Our Verdict
All in all, Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema is a terrific camera for cooking videos and food vlogging. The quality of videos offered by this camera is simply second to none.
Disadvantages
- Easy portability
- 4K/60P recording
- 5-inch touchscreen
- Carbon fiber construction
- Amazing audio quality
- Stunning close-ups
- Excellent video quality
Disadvantages
- Short battery life
| Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema | Amazon.com |
| Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema | B&H Photo |
| Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema | Walmart |
| Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema | Adorama |
Difference between Food Photos and Food Videos
Food photos and videos seem similar but they are different from each other. Both require different gear, skills, techniques, and setup. For example, the best camera for food photography may not offer similar results for food videos.
You must be wondering how food photos are different from food videos. First and foremost, food photography has been popular for decades now. It is a huge market where people buy these photographs. Food or cooking videos, on the other hand, have garnered immense popularity but only in recent years.
A lot of people want to learn recipes online, giving a massive boost to the popularity of food videos. They cannot simply learn everything from a photo.
You also need different photography equipment in each case. A basic lighting setup and a good camera with relatively high megapixels are all you need for food photos. However, you need more advanced equipment, a better lighting source, tripods, advanced editing skills, at least 4K resolution, and much more for videos.
It is pertinent to mention that videos offer better results and conversion than photos. More and more people are learning recipes online. The demand for cooking tutorials is at an all-time high. Most of these videos are extremely simple to follow, revolutionizing the concept of cooking. Needless to say, they are easily accessible and practical as well.
How to Buy the Best Camera for Cooking Videos?
The camera to record cooking videos should have the following features.
Resolution
You need to have a high-resolution sensor as well as at least 4K video resolution to make your food videos and images truly leave an impact. High megapixels and frame rates will also show more details, depth, and sharpness.
Screen
A fully articulating screen enables you to record recipes from different and difficult angles. Similarly, you must also look for a high-resolution screen if you want to use lower ISOs as well. Some cameras come with screens that you can also customize for vlogging.
Manual Focusing Options
Manual focusing helps you precisely focus on smaller details. Go for cameras that have some sort of manual focusing option. For example, Focusing magnification, focusing peaking, and easy manual adjustments can go a long way in creating beautiful food vlogs.
AF Points
High AF points scattered across the frame allow you to easily track and focus objects on the far edge of the frame. Similarly, a camera with fast and accurate autofocus is also necessary.
Food Modes
A lot of modern cameras have dedicated food modes. You don’t necessarily need them but it is always nice to have a food mode if you regularly record and take food videos and images.
Close-Focusing
A dedicated micro lens would help you get very close to the food for finely detailed shots. Your camera should be compatible with macro lenses. Similarly, it should offer a very close focusing distance.
Remote Control Possibilities
It is always nice to have a camera with remote control access. It is very helpful to be able to remotely press the shutter. Most cameras nowadays come with a smartphone app to provide remote control.
Also Read: Best Budget Camera For Product Photography In 2024
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you set up a camera for cooking videos?
Using a tripod is the best way to set up your camera for food videos. The tripod should allow both horizontal and vertical shooting. It will help you get a perfect angle to record overhead videos. Needless to mention, the tripod must also offer excellent balance and stability.
What do you need to film a cooking video?
First of all, you need all the ingredients of the recipe in one place. Secondly, you need a good camera and tripod to record the video. Make sure you focus on each ingredient and step involved in making the recipe. Try to get as close to the action as possible.
How many cameras do you need for a cooking show?
You need at least two cameras or even more if you want to take more dynamic shots with zooming, panning, and different fields of focus. You should also have an assistant to operate the second camera while the third camera will be mounted on a tripod. It ensures you don’t miss any key moment or action.
Is Nikon or Canon better for food photography?
Canon cameras are more popular among food vloggers and photographers than Nikon. Canon generally has more resources and features to cater to the needs of cooking videos.
Final Thoughts
Concluding our guide to the best camera for cooking videos, we must say that you can also start a successful food vlog. All you need to have are the right gear, a kitchen, and of course, knowledge about lots of lots unique recipes and proper techniques to make them.