Best overall		Insta360 X3		SEE IT	High quality video, effective stabilization, and plenty of recording modes earn this the top spot.
Best for vlogging		GoPro Max		SEE IT	This GoPro features six mics for high-quality surround sound audio recording.
Best budget		Ricoh Theta SC2		SEE IT	Get a solid mix of features for a relatively affordable price.

Framing and overall composition are critical to great photos and videos, and with 360 cameras, painstakingly deciding on what to shoot is no longer as much of an issue. These unique cameras literally shoot everything around you on all sides, giving you full control in the editing process of what’s in the frame. That’s because 360 cameras use two back-to-back fisheye lenses and then merge these images together seamlessly. It allows you to capture everything and then reframe to get the optimal images afterward using a mobile or computer app. 

Many 360 cameras on the market are designed for use in action-adventure and sports. These cameras have amazing image stabilization and often are durable and waterproof. To add to the ease of use, most are lightweight and small, and it’s possible to strap them on or position them easily without a lot of fuss. Other 360 cameras focus on delivering cinematic-quality images and would be useful in shooting virtual reality or high-quality panoramic-style video and still images. No matter what you plan on using it for, 360 cameras offer a fun and versatile way to create content.

• Best overall: Insta360 X3
• Best professional: Insta360 Pro 2
• Best affordable 8K camera: KanDao QooCam
• Best for vlogging: GoPro MAX
• Best for low light: Ricoh Theta Z1
• Best budget: Ricoh Theta SC2

How we chose the best 360 cameras

When selecting the cameras included in this guide, we considered a range of specs and features that are essential to any camera type. Resolution, overall image and video quality, stabilization, sound quality, and battery life were all essential components of successful 360 cameras. As most of these devices are also intended to be action cameras, we looked at portability, durability, and mounting methods. Lastly, since 360-degree footage requires editing, we assessed each camera’s associated editing program. Our decisions were based on a mix of hands-on experience, brand knowledge, editorial reviews, and user feedback. 

The best 360 cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

360 cameras allow for dramatic and immersive footage. And they provide much more flexibility when it is time to edit your photos or videos. Whether you are a professional looking for a camera for your high-end productions or an adventure lover simply wanting to capture your mountain biking trips in a fun way, these cameras are sure to tick all the right boxes.

Best overall: Insta360 X3

SEE IT

Specs

• Sensor size: ½-inch
• 360 Video resolution: 5.7K
• 360 Still image resolution: 72 megapixels
• Memory card slot: microSD/microSDHC (UHS-I)
• Waterproof: Yes, to 33 feet
• Dimensions: 4.5 x 1.8 x 1.3 inches
• Weight: 6.3 ounces

Pros

• Very effective image stabilization
• Excellent video quality
• Great sound quality from built-in mics
• Lots of photo and video modes

Cons

• App takes time to learn
• Photos are slow to take

The Insta360 X3 is a versatile, well-rounded 360 camera, which is why it wins our top spot. The camera features a half-inch sensor, which is larger than the previous generation of this device. It’s capable of high-quality 5.7K 360-degree video or immersive 72-megapixel 360 photos. You can also use just a single lens (on either the front or back) if you don’t want 360 footage all the time. There are lots of different modes, including 8K timelapse, active HDR, Starlapse, burst shooting, and more, giving you lots of flexibility.

As a true action camera, the X3 offers impressive image stabilization to smooth out your video, even during jumpy movement. It’s also ruggedly built and is waterproof to 33 feet without a case, making it a fantastic underwater camera. And the Invisible Dive Case makes it possible to record seamless 360 videos even deeper. However, since it is a 360 camera with two protruding lenses, you’ll need to take care to keep those safe. If you don’t buy a bundle, you may want to purchase a lens cap or even some Sticky Lens Guards to keep them safe. 

The X3 is capable of taking photos, but it is a bit slow to take and process them, so it can be a bit frustrating and isn’t ideal for action shots. The mobile app also takes some time to learn, and some things can only be done on the desktop app. But this is a do-it-all 360 action camera with a reasonable price compared to other options, making it the best choice for most. 

Best professional: Insta360 Pro 2

SEE IT

Specs

• Sensor size: Unspecified
• Maximum 360 video resolution: 8K
• Maximum 360 still image resolution: 144 megapixels
• Memory card slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC
• Waterproof: No
• Dimensions: 5.6 x 5.6 x 5.6 inches
• Weight: 3.41 pounds

Pros

• Class-leading image and video quality
• Long-range monitoring makes recording easier
• Spherical spatial audio
• Pro-level controls and features

Cons

• Expensive
• Requires six microSD cards for each camera along with an SD card

Although most 360 cameras are capable of excellent image and video quality, they fall a bit short of pro-level capabilities. The Insta360 Pro 2 is an answer for professionals wanting to create high-end content for VR or 3D applications. This device relies on six individual cameras with f/2.4 fisheye lenses. It also features four microphones for recording ambisonic spatial audio, so you can get immersive sound with your videos.

The Pro 2 is capable of recording 3D videos at up to 8K 30p or 2D video at up to 60 fps. If you lower the quality to 4K, you can get up to 120 fps. And you can even live-stream 360-degree content up to 4K quality. It is also capable of still photos up to 12K, but this requires stitching via a computer. It offers an HDR function for better quality even in tricky light, and the 9-axis FlowState stabilization is highly effective for creating smooth videos even when moving. 

One exciting selling point of the Pro 2 is its FarSight. This feature allows you to connect a transmitter to the camera and a receiver to your phone or tablet and control the device from a distance. Insta360 says this provides a ground-to-ground range of 1000 feet, meaning you won’t have to hide last minute when recording 360 content. This is an expensive device, but it does provide a long list of pro-level features for those who need the best.

Best affordable 8K camera: KanDao QooCam

SEE IT

Specs

• Sensor size: 1/1.7-inch
• Maximum 360 video resolution: 8K
• Maximum 360 still image resolution: 20 megapixels
• Memory card slot: microSD/microSDHC/microSDXC
• Waterproof: No
• Dimensions: 7 x 2.2 x 1.3 inches
• Weight: 9.7 ounces 

Pros

• 4K slow-motion footage
• High-quality video
• Manual exposure settings
• Effective stabilization

Cons

• Not waterproof
• Still pricey

Creative filmmakers on a budget will enjoy the ability to capture 360 video and photos in 8K resolution without spending a small fortune. The KanDao QooCam is still not a cheap device, but it offers a lot of quality for the price. The camera boasts two 20-megapixel CMOS sensors. These help capture 8K footage at 30 fps and 4K video at 120 fps for epic slo-mo video. It’s also capable of 16-bit color stills that are rich and detailed. 

A 2.4-inch OLED touchscreen on the camera allows you to easily compose shots and adjust controls. It offers a long list of quick modes such as pano, super slow-motion, live-streaming, and more. Or you can take manual control of the exposure for fine-tuned results. And the 6-axis image stabilization effectively smooths out video even during jarring movements. While the image quality certainly is impressive, this camera is not waterproof or drop-proof. As a result, you’ll want to be careful when using this outdoors or when recording action. 

Best for vlogging: GoPro MAX

SEE IT

Specs

• Sensor size: Unspecified
• Maximum 360 video resolution: 5K
• Maximum 360 still image resolution: 5760 x 2880 megapixels
• Memory card slot: microSD/microSDHC/microSDXC
• Waterproof: Yes, to 16 feet
• Dimensions: 2.5 x 2.7 x 1.6 inches
• Weight: 5.75 ounces 

Pros

• Very compact and lightweight
• Can record traditional GoPro wide-angle footage
• Superb stabilization
• Six microphones record 360 audio

Cons

• 360-degree photo quality isn’t great

GoPro cameras are extremely well known for their impressive quality and stabilization. And while its 360 camera offering may be a few years old now, it still has a lot to offer. The camera is capable of 5K 360 video, or 5760 x 2880 still photos. These are stitched automatically in the camera, making it faster to edit and share. You can also use a single lens to record traditional GoPro footage, making it very versatile. 

Vloggers will appreciate the high-quality sound that’s possible from the GoPro MAX. It features six separate microphones, so you can record 360-degree surround sound from the tiny camera. It also supports live streaming up to 1080p. The MAX is waterproof without a case to 16 feet and is ruggedly built, so a drop or two won’t kill it. And you get GoPro’s impressive stabilization for smooth video as well.

Best for low light: Ricoh Theta Z1

SEE IT

Specs

• Sensor size: 1-inch
• Maximum 360 video resolution: 4K
• Maximum 360 still image resolution: 23 megapixels
• Memory card slot: None, 51GB of internal memory
• Waterproof: No
• Dimensions: 5.2 x 1.9 x 1.2 inches
• Weight: 6.42 ounces 

Pros

• Large, back-illuminated CMOS sensors
• Excellent low-light performance
• Easy to use
• Thid-party plugin access

Cons

• Internal memory is limiting
• Expensive

The Ricoh Theta Z1 was the first 360 camera to feature large, one-inch sensors, which gives it an edge in terms of image quality. And these sensors are back-illuminated, making them even better in low-light situations. As a result, this camera is a favorite for real estate virtual tours. Plus, the Automatic DR (dynamic range) compensation makes it easier to get well-exposed images even in the high-contrast lighting scenarios you’re likely to find in interior spaces. 

The camera offers a range of shooting modes and settings that allow for lots of creative control. That includes a selectable aperture from f/2.1, f/3.5, and f/5.6 for greater control of depth of field. It supports raw file format for enhanced editing of the 23-megapixel photos. And the dual microphones result in quality audio. The Theta Z1 is a more expensive 360 camera, so it is best suited for advanced photographers with experience and a need for high-quality content.

Best budget: Ricoh Theta SC2 WHITE

SEE IT

Specs

• Sensor size: 1/2.3-inch
• Maximum 360 video resolution: 4K
• Maximum 360 still image resolution: 5376 x 2688 megapixels
• Memory card slot: None, 14GB internal memory
• Waterproof: No
• Dimensions: 1.78 x 5.14 x 0.9 inches
• Weight: 3.67 ounces 

Pros

• Available in four colors
• Affordable
• Very slim and lightweight
• Easy to use

Cons

• Quality is below more expensive models

The Ricoh Theta SC2 is a great entry-level 360 camera for the casual user, thanks to its very approachable price. It’s also extremely slim compared to other models, thanks to Ricoh’s proprietary folded optics system. And with the four different color options, it ends up looking more like a remote or phone than a 360 camera. Despite the budget price, the camera is capable of 4K 360 video that is stitched in-camera. And it’s capable of 5376 x 2688 360-degree photos as well.

The Theta SC2 is extremely easy to use, with plenty of modes to easily produce quality content. It corrects for camera shake to produce smooth videos when hand-holding the camera. Face Mode automatically centers faces in the middle of the frame and ensures the image is properly exposed on the face instead of the background. And Night Mode corrects images in low-light settings. The quality of photos and videos won’t match what you will get from a more expensive 360 camera, but it is quite excellent for the price.

What to consider when buying the best 360 cameras

360 cameras should be easy and fun to use. And they should provide impressive high-resolution panoramic views of the world around you. While there aren’t endless 360 options available, especially with vastly different specs, it can still be confusing to sort through what matters. Below are some key items to pay attention to when shopping for a 360 camera.

Image stabilization

You know the cell phone video you took while running after your kids that later made you all feel like throwing up? Yeah, you can tell yourself it’s artistic, but really nobody likes to watch a bouncy, shaking camera. Luckily, most 360 cameras feature image stabilization software that smooths out videos for you without any additional fancy gear, with pretty impressive results. Some cameras offer more effective stabilization than others, however. If you are hoping to use your 360 camera for action videos, you may want to watch sample footage to verify it will offer enough stabilization. 

Resolution

Maybe you’re that person who is first in line for gadgets that offer the latest cutting-edge technology, or maybe you just want to shoot the sharpest, most cinematic 360 footage possible. 360 cameras with 8K video will deliver some truly mind-blowing images. While 4K video is impressive enough, 8K offers the most impressive images the human eye can recognize.

An 8K resolution will generate a noticeably sharper image with more details and makes your images qualify as VR-grade video. Currently, there are only a few brands on the consumer market that offer this level of quality. Previously this resolution was only available for professional use and was extremely expensive. Recent innovations have allowed this technology to become lighter, smaller, and more reasonably priced, but it still comes with a fairly steep price tag. If you’re interested in creative 360 film-making, 8K technology is a pretty fantastic feature to look for, but be prepared to pay higher prices.

Waterproofing

If you want to capture and share highlights from your action-packed adventures, you’ll want a camera that is durably built and able to handle whatever you throw at it. Whether you are snorkeling, sailing, skiing, or splashing through muddy puddles on your mountain bike, investing in a 360-action camera designed for not just movement but for water will ensure your camera will last.

It’s important to read through the specific guidelines and manual for use, as each camera will have a limit as to how far you can go underwater, if at all. The most common waterproofing depth is 16 feet, though some go to 33 feet. For deeper water, you will need to consider additional accessories for your camera, like a dive case or dive bubble. 

Low light abilities

Even the most experienced photographers know that shooting in low light is a real challenge. For example, in low light, a photographer might increase the ISO settings, use slower shutter speeds or adjust the aperture. This is when experience and knowledge of your camera’s settings really come into play to get the best results.

The best 360 cameras for low light photography feature top-of-the-line image sensors that offer high-resolution imagining as well as high ISO settings with excellent noise handling. High ISO settings are very important for low-light photography because they allow you to capture images in darker environments and can prevent motion blur even when shooting ultra-fast action.

Editing tools

You don’t have to go to film school or have been James Cameron’s production assistant to use a 360 camera. In fact, they can be fairly easy and fun to use. Many of these cameras are even ideal for beginners and will help you out by doing some of the work for you. Being a dual-lens machine, there will be seams between the camera’s images, and editing these seams is referred to as stitching. While these seams can be edited (or stitched) in apps, many cameras stitch the seams on their own. As a beginner, it’s easier to get a camera to do that work for you.

Even if the camera stitches the 360 photos and videos for you, you’ll likely need to do some level of editing in order to share your content. Most camera companies offer mobile or desktop apps for editing, whereas some allow for plugins to work with programs like Adobe Premiere Pro. If you want the ability to quickly edit video on your phone and share to social media, be sure to look for a camera that provides an easy-to-use mobile app. 

Budget

When it comes to cameras, typically, you do get what you pay for. Most 360 cameras are fairly expensive, but they offer impressive stabilization, high-end image quality, and loads of features. There are some very inexpensive 360 cameras available for sale, but we recommend at least going for an entry-level camera manufactured by a quality, trusted brand. These entry-level cameras are designed to be affordable and are often easier to use in order to appeal to beginners. Some may have less advanced features, but there are options that don’t sacrifice image quality. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best 360 cameras

• Best overall: Insta360 X3
• Best professional: Insta360 Pro 2
• Best affordable 8K camera: Kandao QooCam
• Best for vlogging: GoPro MAX
• Best for low light: Ricoh Theta Z1
• Best budget: Ricoh Theta SC2

360 cameras will provide uniquely stunning panoramic views of your world. They also offer much more flexibility when editing, allowing you to reframe as you see fit. And most of these devices are highly-capable action cameras, making it possible to record immersive, epic footage of your adventures. If you’re hoping to capture a different perspective, a 360 camera is the way to go.

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best 360 cameras of 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best untethered		PowerVision Power Ray Explorer		SEE IT	Explore oceans with this premium model that comes with a full 4K camera.
Best for kids		RoboSea Biki		SEE IT	Get your kids started with this pick that captures 4K video and comes with camera stabilization.
Best budget		Chasing Dory		SEE IT	This affordable pick provides 1080p hi-res video from up to 50 feet below the surface.

When most people think of drone photography, odds are they immediately picture swooping aerial shots over mountains and cities. While the bird’s eye view from the best drones is always a show-stopper, more than half of this planet is covered in water, and technology has made the “fish eye’s view” more accessible and exciting. 

Whether you call them simply “underwater drones” or prefer some of the (admittedly much cooler) names like Underwater Unmanned Vehicles (UUVs), Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), or Robotic Submarines, the use of drones in undersea photography has grown steadily alongside the evolution of the tech itself. Drones have also made the entire practice easier and more attainable for the curious or novice. Just a few years ago, underwater photographers not only had to invest in tons of specialized photography equipment, they had to do so on top of outfitting themselves head-to-toe in SCUBA gear. It was so expensive and made it so unwieldy to travel that the activity remained pretty much exclusive to the hardcore. 

But underwater drone technology has advanced to make things lighter, faster, and more user-friendly. Just like aerial photography no longer requires you to either have your helicopter license or know a close friend who does, you no longer need to be an experienced diver and photographer to capture amazing aquatic images. It should be noted, though, that an underwater camera drone is still not cheap, costing anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 and high end instruments well into the $30,000 range. But here’s how you can get started.

• Best tethered: Geneinno Titan Underwater Drone
• Best untethered: PowerVision PowerRay Explorer
• Best for stills: Aquarobotman Nemo
• Best budget: Chasing Dory

The best underwater drones: Reviews & Recommendations

Best tethered: Geneinno Titan Underwater Drone

SEE IT

The Geneinno Titan Underwater Drone is one of the pricier consumer underwater drones at just under $3,000, but it is a powerhouse. Featuring a 492-foot cable tether, its full 4K camera and 3,000-lumen lighting capabilities ensure that when it returns from the depths it has treasures to show you.

Best untethered: PowerVision PowerRay Explorer

SEE IT

The PowerVision PowerRay Explorer is not only one of the most stylish underwater drones on the market (it looks like something Q would give to James Bond), but it’s also one of the most fun. Its remote system (which syncs with smartphone or VR headset) resembles a PlayStation controller, and the emphasis here is clearly on the joy of exploration. It can deliver full 4K video up to 98 feet. 

Best for stills: Aquarobotman Nemo

SEE IT

The Aquarobotman Nemo features 4K UHD video, in addition to full HD 16MP megapixel still images bolstered by 1000lm LED fill lights. It has a substantial 328 feet of tether, and can send stunning images to your smartphone or tablet in real time. 

Best budget: Chasing Dory

SEE IT

A great entry-level underwater drone that delivers at a reasonable price. With most quality drones beginning at around $1,500, the $500 Chasing Dory is extremely well-priced for a beginner and designed to be very user-friendly. The name may sound like a Disney movie, but It’s effective at depths of about 50 feet and delivers solid 1080p hi-res video and imagery. It’s also compact and easy to transport around. Inexpensive, without feeling cheap or disposable.

How do the best underwater drones work?

Although the popularity of drones in general has skyrocketed in the last few years, the history of the underwater drone actually dates all the way back to the 1950s. Perhaps not surprisingly, the first Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) or Remote-Operated Underwater Vehicles (ROV)—the two basic types of drones—were created with scientific research in mind. 

In 1957, the University of Washington’s Applied Physics Laboratory developed the Special Purpose Underwater Research Vehicle or SPURV. One of the first UUVs, the SPURV was funded by the Office of Naval Research and it could dive up to 10,000 feet and operate for four hours. That program lasted until the late 1970s, and spurred others to create similar UUVs and ROVs. In 1985, the Massachusetts-based Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) developed an ROV called the Argo, which became famous when it was used to discover the wreckage of The Titanic and the, four years later, the infamous World War II battleship, The Bismarck. By the 1990s, the U.S. military began investing in underwater drone research as a way of detecting and avoiding mines after several naval vessels were damaged by Iraqi sea mines in the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Storm. 

As camera technology evolved and hi-res and 4K imagery became just another smartphone perk, consumer drones for recreational use began to take off. Aerial drones got the most attention, but undersea photographers were now able to capture detailed video and imagery from depths that were previously impossible. 

Related: Read how the U.S Navy is using underwater drones to study oceans.

Is tethered or untethered better for underwater drones?

As mentioned above, there are essentially two types of underwater drones: UUVs and ROVs. UUVs are not tethered and are designed to operate largely independent of a human operator or via radio signal. They’re most effective in shallower water (because radio waves don’t travel well in deep water). ROVS are a tethered vehicle that is piloted by crew members aboard a nearby vessel, and the “tether” can be a physical cable or some kind of virtual attachment to a smartphone or even VR headset. Choosing which one will work best for you depends on a few specific factors. 

The first is where you intend to use your drone. It may seem obvious, but a tethered drone generally makes the most sense if you own or have access to some kind of seafaring vessel and can take it where it’ll be most effective. It’s also worth considering that underwater drones tend to be a bit heavier and bulkier than their airborne counterparts, so you may need more than an inflatable tube. 

An untethered drone, again, is best in shallow water, and might be a better option if you’re going to be standing on a beach or a rocky outcropping rather than way out in the depths.

Looking for stills over video?

Most people tend to associate drone photography with movement—after all, if you can get that high up or that deep, you want to share the experience of soaring or diving as best you can. And while drone-shot videos are always exciting, underwater drones do allow for spectacular still imagery which may be what some in the market may be looking for above all else. 

When looking for the best drone specifically for still photography, you can ignore things like speed, which won’t really come into play in this specific case. What you want to look for is the ability (naturally) to take hi-res photos, but you’ll also want a drone that can make digital file transfers easily, and can help you even edit or adjust photos on the fly to hone in on those precise moments rather than just recording everything to be sorted out later. 

What’s the best underwater drone for curious kids?

The price point and functionality of most underwater drones makes them a bit exclusionary, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t find options that will enrapture children without risking thousands of dollars in the process. 

Children can adapt to new technology quickly, so when you combine that with their natural curiosity (especially around all things aquatic), underwater drones for kids can be both fun and an incredible learning device. In addition to price, you’ll want to seek out a drone that isn’t overly complicated or cumbersome, and is more adaptable to small hands. But you don’t necessarily want to go too far in the other direction either, and wind up with something that is little more than a disposable toy. 

The right underwater drone for kids will have enough functionality to keep them engaged, but won’t be so sophisticated as to frustrate and annoy. It will allow for play as well as education, and won’t break Mom and Dad’s budget.

What’s the best affordable, entry-level underwater drone?

As we’ve mentioned, underwater drones tend to be much pricier than their aerial counterparts, with fewer options available for those looking to dip a toe in without taking a giant cannonball leap. With even consumer-friendly drones into the multi-thousand dollar price range, it takes some maneuvering to find that narrow middle ground between high-end aquatic device and cheap, disposable toy. But it is possible. 

When looking for an affordable option, understand that you may have to sacrifice some features for others, so it’s all about knowing what you want out of your drone experience. Speed is the easiest corner to cut, with newcomers not necessarily needing to buzz around the ocean depths at top speeds. Another is image resolution. Sure, you don’t want blurry or dark images, but if it means opting for 1080p over 4K saves you some cash, it’s worth it in the end and won’t make a dramatic difference. One final thing to consider is customization. You won’t have the option of swapping out lenses or adding after-market modifications, but that’s not really a concern if you’re just starting out. 

FAQs

The final word on the best underwater drones

A quality underwater drone can be a lot of fun, and can help fuel your aquatic creativity in new and exciting ways. All you need to consider is how frequently you intend to use it (which will determine how much you need to invest), and what you hope to get out of it – do you want some nice still photos? Or a hefty hi-res video? Once you know how deep (no pun intended) you want to go with it, finding the right drone can be easy and affordable for the newcomer and the experienced veteran alike.

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best underwater drones of 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		The Essence of Photography, 2nd Edition: Seeing and Creativity		SEE IT	This book serves as both a helpful instructional tool and beautiful coffee table book.
Best historical photos		Popular Photography: The World’s Most Iconic Photographs		SEE IT	This fascinating book shares photographs that had a significant impact on our world.
The Photographer’s Guide to Posing: Techniques to Flatter Everyone		Best for posing		SEE IT	Portrait photographers will benefit greatly from this posing guide.

Photography books can be powerful tools. They can teach you to capture your favorite moments, provide tips on sparking creativity, or show you some of the most memorable moments in history. And they can make great gifts if you’re looking to encourage someone’s interest or spark a new one. Of course, photography books span many categories. You’ll need a different book if you’re growing your photography skills rather than simply enjoying beautiful photographs. As a result, we’ve selected a range of instructional books and those that act as conversation starters and let you appreciate the beauty of photography. No matter what kind of book you’re looking for, the best photography books should inspire and educate.

• Best overall: The Essence of Photography, 2nd Edition: Seeing and Creativity
• Best for inspiration: Behind the Camera: Creative Techniques of 100 Great Photographers
• Best for beginners: Read This If You Want to Take Great Photographs of People
• Best for food photographers: The Food Stylist’s Handbook
• Best historical photos: Popular Photography: The World’s Most Iconic Photographs
• Best photo history: A World History of Photography
• Best for composition: The Photographer’s Eye: Composition and Design for Better Digital Photos
• Best for posing: The Photographer’s Guide to Posing: Techniques to Flatter Everyone
• Best for lighting: Light ― Science & Magic: An Introduction to Photographic Lighting
• Best technical book for beginners: Digital Photography Complete Course

Methodology: How we picked the best photography books

Photography is a broad book topic. To pick the best of the best, we considered the purpose of the book. You can think of photography books as coming from two distinct categories: Instructional and recreational. Instructional books teach the reader how to improve their photography skills. Recreational books let you browse beautiful photographs. Many recreational photography books also give you a history of the photographer or the photo’s subject. 

We also considered the book’s quality. We looked at the quality of the photos in the book and the instructional content. And lastly, we prioritized the source of the material. World-renowned photographers willing to share their expertise with others make great sources, as do publications and outlets specializing in photography. We made sure to select books written and compiled by credible, well-respected sources within the industry.

The best photography books: Reviews & recommendations

Whether you’re searching for a collection of famous photographs, a themed book covering the history of the medium, or even an instructional manual to inspire and educate, there is a broad range of books to choose from. Here are some of our favorites.

Best overall: The Essence of Photography, 2nd Edition: Seeing and Creativity

SEE IT

The Essence of Photography: Seeing and Creativity straddles the line between an instructional and recreational book. It teaches photographers how to define and bring their own style to their photography. Using over 100 photographs as samples and inspiration, Bruce Barnbaum explores how and why powerful photos go beyond light, composition, and other principles of photography.

This book acts as inspiration for beginning photographers and is helpful for intermediate and experts in search of inspiration. Folks looking for a book to grace their coffee table can even enjoy it for the beautiful photographs and inspirational text. However, some readers may be disappointed if they’re looking for a strictly instructive book. There’s little technical information, with the author assuming good technique and technical know-how are already in the photographer’s skill set.

Best for inspiration: Behind the Camera: Creative Techniques of 100 Great Photographers

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In the same vein as the above book, Behind the Camera looks at example photographs in order to offer inspiration and knowledge. Author Paul Lowe breaks the book up into different thematic sections, including “Places,” “Faces,” “Stories,” “Ideas,” and “Moments.” No matter what type of photography you enjoy, you’ll find something helpful in this book.

Lowe pulls from photographic works by famous photographers such as Julia Margaret Cameron, Joel Meyerowitz, Walker Evans, Cindy Sherman, Nan Goldin, Weegee, Man Ray, and Robert Capa. Through these sample photos, he considers the photographers’ technique, strategies, and vision. He not only celebrates their creative work but distills lessons from each piece that the budding photographer can work into their practice. Part coffee-table book, part textbook, it’s a great place to start or go back to for ideas. Both beginners and experts alike will appreciate this book, whether it be for the insights and inspiration it provides or simply the collection of incredible photographs held within.

Best for beginners: Read This If You Want to Take Great Photographs of People

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The title of this book says it all. It focuses on portrait photography and draws on the works of masters like Richard Avedon, William Klein, Cindy Sherman, and others. The book speaks plainly about the art form, with an emphasis on real takeaways for those looking to learn photography. Beyond just posing tips, Read This If You Want To Take Great Photographs of People touches on composition, working with color and black and white, and imbuing your portraits with meaning. It even touches on lighting to help take your portraits to another level.

This book is best for those who have a basic understanding of photographic fundamentals. But beyond that, it can serve as an inspirational tool for both novices and experienced photographers alike.

Best for food photographers: The Food Stylist’s Handbook

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As the title implies, this is a handbook of food photography. It provides suggestions designed to give the reader practical advice on taking delicious images. Taking tips from well-known photographers from the advertising and culinary worlds, The Food Stylist’s Handbook: Hundreds of Media Styling Tips, Tricks, and Secrets for Chefs, Artists, Bloggers, and Food Lovers is something that a food photographer will reach for again and again as they hone their craft.

Best historical photos: Popular Photography: The World’s Most Iconic Photographs

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Popular Photography: The Most Iconic Photographs in History takes readers on a journey through 200 years of photographic history. From the first photo ever taken to world-changing moments captured on film, this book explores human history and how it’s been influenced by the ability to save those moments in pictures. And the informative commentary provides context as to why each photo still has an impact today. This is an excellent book for the coffee table. You can flip through it while relaxing or use it as a conversation starter when company comes.

Best photo history: A World History of Photography

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For those looking to learn more about the beginnings and progression of photography, A World History of Photography is one of the best resources available. There’s a reason it is the book of choice for many college photography history courses. 

This book goes much more in-depth than the Popular Photography book mentioned above, making it ideal for those serious about learning. It covers a wide variety of photographic genres and photographers, including portraiture, documentation, advertising, and photojournalism. And it even examines the contemporary perspective, making it well-rounded and thorough.

A World History of Photography even has a section just on the technical history of photography, so you can learn about how cameras and photographic technologies were developed over time. It does lean towards textbook style, which some may not enjoy. But there’s a massive selection of photographs included, so it is also a worthy coffee table book or one to skim through casually.

Best for composition: The Photographer’s Eye: Composition and Design for Better Digital Photos

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The Photographer’s Eye is a popular book written by Michael Freeman, a well-respected photographer whose work has appeared in Smithsonian magazine, Reader’s Digest, and Time-Life Books. Readers delve into the importance of exploring the location to identify angles and lighting beyond the obvious. It helps readers develop their creative eye and bring it to life, encouraging them to look and think about unusual and interesting shots.

While it does cover traditional in-camera composition, it leans toward digital photography. That may or may not be a con depending on your preferred media.

Best for posing: The Photographer’s Guide to Posing: Techniques to Flatter Everyone

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Lindsay Adler is both a fashion photographer and photography educator, giving her unique insight into the subject matter. The book covers posing basics while also addressing the specific posing needs of different subject matter. For example, it provides tips for photographing curvy women, maternity photos, family photos, and small groups. The author also offers her own go-to poses as starting places for those key shoots. 

The book’s beginning even details how the camera sees and how that may impact portraiture. And Adler touches on specific body parts, breaking down posing into easily digestible chunks. Be aware that this book contains some artistic nudity.

Best for lighting: Light ― Science & Magic: An Introduction to Photographic Lighting

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Lighting is a powerful tool that can dramatically change your images. Whether working with portraiture, events, or product photography, it can significantly elevate your work. But, it can be a challenging skill to master due to how technical it is. This book provides a very detailed approach to lighting, even including a “comprehensive theory of the nature and principles of light.”

Light ― Science & Magic provides lighting examples for a variety of situations and subject matter, such as metal, glass, liquids, and, of course, portraiture. It offers diagrams, example photographs, and set-by-step instructions. The authors thoroughly explain each lighting scenario so that you can put them into practice. It is a robust resource that every photographer working with lights should have on their shelf.

Best technical book for beginners: Digital Photography Complete Course

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The Digital Photography Complete Course offers beginners everything they need to get started with their digital camera. It’s broken down into 20 weekly lessons, making the content highly digestible for anyone and everyone. Those lessons even include assignments and assessments to check skills development as you go.

The book covers the basics, like understanding f-stops, ISO, and exposure on the digital camera. The layout includes diagrams, text boxes, examples, and pictures to add visual interest. Keep in mind that intermediate to advanced photographers will find little to enhance their skills with this one. It’s truly an introductory book designed for beginners to go from “What’s a camera?” to taking their own manually-adjusted photos.

Things to consider when buying the best photography books

Purpose

Photography books can generally be categorized into two groups — instructional and recreational. Instructional books are pretty self-explanatory. They teach you how to take photographs or improve specific skills.

Basic photography books may teach you how to use a digital camera or cover the seven principles of design — pattern, contrast, emphasis, rhythm and movement, balance, and unity. Some books briefly cover all seven, while others focus on a single principle or sub-topic within a principle, like composure or lighting.

Beginners should start with a basic book that covers the main photography topics. Then, as you become more skilled, a specialized book that focuses on a single technique or principle can help you add depth to your skills.

Recreational books include coffee table books that offer a visual feast. They’re a great way to appreciate some of the world’s best photographs or for you to enjoy your favorite topic. For example, there are photography books for landscapes, barns, pets, and people. These books aren’t instructional in nature. You can simply enjoy the beauty they provide and enjoy the text that accompanies them, which may explain the subject or the photographer.

Author’s authority

Do a little research into the book’s author or publisher. A photography book written by a chef doesn’t hold much credit unless they’re teaching you about food photography and know the photographic medium well.

Look for photographers who specialize in their topic, like a fashion photographer who publishes a book on posing or lighting. Organizations that specialize in photography in some way are also valid, credible sources.

Quality

Consider the quality of both the photos and the instruction and how well they fit your goals. If you don’t love landscapes, Ansel Adams probably isn’t for you, even if the photos are top quality. Similarly, a book about taking landscapes may not interest you if you want to take family portraits.

FAQs

Related: Here’s a list of even more books that every photographer should own

Final thoughts on the best photography books

• Best overall: The Essence of Photography, 2nd Edition: Seeing and Creativity
• Best for inspiration: Behind the Camera: Creative Techniques of 100 Great Photographers
• Best for beginners: Read This If You Want to Take Great Photographs of People
• Best for food photographers: The Food Stylist’s Handbook
• Best historical photos: Popular Photography: The World’s Most Iconic Photographs
• Best photo history: A World History of Photography
• Best for composition: The Photographer’s Eye: Composition and Design for Better Digital Photos
• Best for posing: The Photographer’s Guide to Posing: Techniques to Flatter Everyone
• Best for lighting: Light ― Science & Magic: An Introduction to Photographic Lighting
• Best technical book for beginners: Digital Photography Complete Course

Photography is a widely appreciated art form, and thanks to digital technology it’s become more and more accessible to more people. Budding photographers have a much easier way to test the waters and find their style without the burden of expensive film development costs or equipment. There are also overwhelming resources both online and in books to help guide them as they learn photography, so grab one of the best photography books from our selection and start them on their journey.

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

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By now, you’ve may have seen the video released by IMAX showing a standard theatrical presentation of the Avengers: Endgame teaser side-by-side with how the same images appear in IMAX. But like a lot things related to IMAX, it’s really difficult to communicate the experience in other media (like a YouTube clip). And while seeing it on a standard screen will still be thrilling, it’s not exactly the same experience.

Chief Technology Officer at IMAX, Brian Bonnick says the exact IMAX process of engineering a movie for the really big screen is proprietary but requires filmmakers to start thinking about the presentation before they even begin shooting. For the Russo Brothers directing team, their IMAX experience started out tentatively. They used a joint customized digital version of ARRI’s then-new large format camera, the Alexa 65, to shoot the airport superhero showdown at the center of Captain America: Civil War in 2016. The cameras clearly made an impression, as the duo quickly decided to use them to shoot all of Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame.

RELATED: Jason Momoa’s camera collection is probably more impressive than yours

The Alexa 65 actually has the ability to capture more data than most systems can even process—but that extra information still comes in handy. “In Christopher Nolan’s last film [Dunkirk], he wanted infinite detail in focus on a shot, so he chose a film-based camera with a resolution of 18K,” explains Bonnick. “Even though a projector’s 4K, we utilize that extra data to improve the quality of the presentation. It’s a technique called ‘oversampling.’ The Alexa is a 6K by roughly 3K pixel, so you’re dealing with more than 4K data, but we use that data in a post-production process that is designed to use every single pixel in the enhancement process.” Sampling from too much information is much easier than trying to extrapolate from a lower-resolution capture or stretch an existing shot.

The extra data also extends to the sound capture as well. As Bonnick explains, typically when sound is captured on set – say, for a massive explosion – the low end of the audio is recorded, but it’s pulled out in post-production because most systems aren’t capable of playing back low-end frequencies without distortion. “We manage the whole sound mix differently. It’s not a 5.1 channel system. We employ what’s called PPS, or Proportional Point Source sound.” This system creates what he refers to as “phantom images” – you can actually direct exactly where you want a sound to be coming from by triangulating three speakers (all of which have full range) to give the illusion of a precise sound origin. “You can hear a cannon going off and a pin drop,” says Bonnick. “This is why the ‘food chain’ idea is so important.”

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