Best Cameras for Wedding Photography
13 Best Cameras for Wedding Photography
The situation; you’re booked as the photographer at your ex-girlfriend’s wedding. You’re clicking pictures with a tear in your eyes. But you don’t run away cause you’re a warrior; you’re a professional, and professionals won’t run away from their job!
Ok that situation might be unlikely, but…
No matter how prepared you are or good you are, you still need the right camera for the job!
Weddings are full of emotions – joy, laughter, and sometimes tears. Weddings can be one of the most photographed days in someone’s life! It’s essential to have a wedding photography camera that captures these moments perfectly.
The best cameras for wedding photography are DSLR’s and mirrorless cameras – because they offer outstanding low-light performance, fast autofocus and can produce a beautiful bokeh effect (this is when the background of an image is blurred out but the foreground or subject are perfectly in focus and clear).
In this article, we will go over which DSLRs or Mirrorless cameras you should consider for your next purchase if you’re looking to get into professional wedding photography – or even just want to take better pictures at your family reunions. This article will also go over some things to look out for when buying a new camera, so you don’t end up with buyer’s remorse!
One of the reasons that wedding photography can be difficult is because it allows you to capture a lot of different sequences of events in a short period. This means that there is a lot that could go wrong during a wedding: the bride could be late, the groom could lose his temper, or there could be a tornado, and you’d be standing in the middle of it.
Confusion About Choosing The Right Camera
When you decide to buy a wedding camera, the first problem arises: what type of sensor setup should you buy? Really the choice comes down to 2 major factors:
DSLR VS Mirrorless cameras for wedding photography
These are the 2 main types of cameras to choose from, either the traditional DSLR or a Mirrorless camera – which doesn’t have the mechanical shutter (also known as a mirror, hence the name; mirror-less!) You can read more about the differences between DSLR and mirrorless cameras in our article here.
Market trends
Realistically the market in general is moving more towards mirrorless cameras, particularly as they get better and develop new technology, but many professional wedding photographers still use and prefer DSLR cameras. Particularly for Photography.
Then why DSLR’s?
DSLR’s are often seen as being slightly more robust and reliable. They are larger due to the need to actually house a mechanical shutter, but this isn’t necessarily a bad thing as the extra size and weight is often very ergonomic.
In my opinion, either are currently great options and the available offerings in the market are really diverse.
If your focus is a camera for wedding photography specifically, then you are lucky to have a wide range of stellar options.
Camera Sensor Size – and why does it matter?
Both DSLR’s and Mirrorless cameras can have different sized sensors inside them. They generally fall into one of 2 categories;
- Full Frame Sensor
- Cropped-sensor (EG: APS-C, Micro 4/3 etc)
Full Frame Camera sensor
Before Describing the full-frame sensor, let’s have what sensors are. The sensor is the rectangle shaped sensor in the middle of the camera which sits behind the lens.
When the light hits this sensor, this is translated into data. This rectangle sensor reads the data of the image from the Lens.
The bigger this sensor, means more surface area. Having more surface area means the more light and details can be captured in the split second that the image is taken so the image quality and dynamics within it will increase.
A full-frame DSLR or mirrorless camera has an image sensor size of a full-frame 35mm film camera (24mm X 35mm).
A full-frame 35mm is twice the size of a super 35mm sensor surface area with a wide-angle view with a shallower depth of field.
In short, what you will get from a full-frame sensor – in comparison to a cropped sensor- is a wider field of view, better performance in lower light and more ability to produce a creative depth of field.
You may also get higher-resolution images with sharper clarity, as well as increased ability to auto-focus faster.
On the wedding day, you likely have to take many shots of group pictures, this is another time where having the wider-angle field of view from a full-frame sensor will give you an advantage over a cropped sensor.
Cropped-sensor aka APS-C cameras
What does it mean for a sensor to be “cropped” compared to a standard full-frame 35mm sensor?
As we discussed earlier, a standard full-frame sensor is a 35mm size. A cropped-sensor is what you might guess – a smaller sensor than full frame.
The field of view of a full-frame camera is the standard size that most lenses are manufactured for.
This means that when you see a lens focal length of say 50mm, that is a 50mm wide field of view on a full-frame 35m sensor. But if you have a cropped-sensor camera, you will have a narrower field of view (ie: more zoomed in).
An APS-C sensor, for example, roughly crops in 1.6X normal. So a 50mm lens on an APS-C sensor will deliver a field of view more similar to 80mm. This means to get a field of view like 50mm on full frame you would need to use something close to a 30mm lens on an APS-C sensor. (eg 28mm or 35mm).
APS-C is not the only size of cropped sensor, there are other sizes and some are smaller like the ‘micro four thirds’ sensor you would find in a camera like the Panasonic GH5 for example.
The smaller sensor, the more the crop and other effected factors.
Some other factors effected by having a smaller sensor size include:
- Narrower field of view (which we covered)
- Less light sensitive (eg: worse in low-light conditions)
- Less depth of field and bokeh (background blur look)
- Sometimes smaller pixels (can mean photo noise is more noticeable, amongst other things)
- Eg: If 2 cameras both have a 24 megapixel sensor but one of them is a cropped-sensor, then the individual pixels would be smaller on the cropped-sensor.
- Slower auto-focus
- Less sharp images
- Less information in each image
There are some more things which are effected but you probably get the basic gist: a larger sensor is generally better and more versatile.
Enough talking about technical details of different camera types; let’s have a deep drive to our main topic…
Our Recommended Best Cameras for Wedding Photography
The prices are in US Dollars and correct as of when this article is written.
The cameras are in no particular order! Look out for EDITORS CHOICE to see our picks!
1. Canon 5D Mark IV
(Price ~$2500)
The EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR Camera is a proper, high-performance DSLR camera designed from the ground up to help you create the photos and videos you want.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR Camera (Body Only) is a full-frame, high-resolution DSLR capable of up to 7 fps (frames per second) continuous shooting and recording video in full HD at up to 1080p30. Records 4K (30p/25p/24p) video with select EOS lenses or using an optional Mount Adapter EF-EOS R.
Key Features:
- 30.4 megapixel Full-Frame CMOS sensor
- ISO range 100-32000 can expand up to 50-102400
- DCI 4K video recording with 29 fps
- Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus
- 61 Points Auto Focus System
Pros:
- 7.0 fps continues shooting
- DIGIC 6+ image processor
- HDMI port
- Intelligent Optical Viewfinder version II
- Built-in GPS and wifi
- EOS webcam utility
Cons:
- No built-in flash
- Bulkier than mirrorless options (but you might actually like this)
2. Canon 6D series mark ii
(Price ~$1400)
*Great value, a lot of the 5DIV features but costs less!*
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II DSLR Camera is a full-frame 26.2MP DSLR featuring an upgraded 45-point all cross-type AF system and Dual Pixel CMOS AF for Live View shooting and Full HD video recording. The 6D Mark II also features a 3.2 inch upgraded LCD with a capacitive touchscreen to enable touch-to-focus, touch-to-shoot, and swipe-to-zoom operations. The LCD touchscreen display is vary angle that you can move on any side.
DIGIC 7 image processor, the camera can capture high-resolution imagery with notable clarity and low noise, even in difficult lighting conditions. Combined with an extensive ISO range of 100-32000, this setup results in sharp, detailed images, even when working in near darkness. Full HD 1080p video recording is supported in multiple frame rates up to 60p, and recording is aided by built-in stereo audio. The EOS 6D Mark II offers both fast performance and quick image processing courtesy.
Key Features:
- 26.2 megapixel Full-Frame CMOS sensor
- ISO range 100-40000
- DCI 4K time-lapse video
- Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus
- 45 AF Points
Pros:
- DIGIC 7 image processor
- HDMI port
- Water and dust resistant
- Built-in GPS and wifi, Bluetooth, and NFC
- EOS webcam utility
Cons:
- No built-in flash
- Bulky
- Only EF lens mount available
3. Canon R6
(Price ~$2500)
*Canon’s new R-Mount Mirrorless series, fast AF photography beast!)*
With high-speed continuous shooting of up to 12 fps with the Mechanical shutter and up to 20 fps with Electronic “silent” shutter, the EOS R6 can keep up with just about any fast moving subject. Combined with the new Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system.
With the new 5-axis In-Body Image Stabilizer, up to 8-stops of shake correction is possible with both non-stabilized and optically image-stabilized lenses, opening up many more creative opportunities for incredibly stable lower light photo or video content creation.
Those looking for creative cinematic video options will appreciate frame rates including 4K 60P and Full HD 120P with the option of internally recorded 4:2:2 10-bit Canon Log or HDR-PQ recording.
Features:
- High Image Quality featuring a New 20 Megapixel Full-frame CMOS Sensor.
- DIGIC X Image Processor with an ISO range of 100-102400; Expandable to 204800.
- High-speed continuous shooting of up to 12 fps with Mechanical Shutter and up to 20 fps electronic (silent) shutter.
- Dual pixel CMOS AF covering approx. 100% area with 1,053 AF areas.
- Subject tracking of people and animals using deep learning technology.
- Video capture resolution: 4K UHD 2160p
Pros:
- Autofocus beast
- Compact, Mirrorless, Full-frame
- Great ISO performance
- Good Video specs too (hybrid camera)
Cons:
- 20.2MP resolution isn’t as big as some other cameras
- Can apparently overheat when shooting 4k60p video extensively
4. Canon 90D
(Price ~$1200)
The EOS 90D is a powerful, fully equipped interchangeable lens camera providing you with everything you need at your fingertips to advance your photography and video skills. The EOS 90D shoots a fast 10 frames per second continuous shooting with full autofocus tracking. Paired with the 3 inch vari-angle LCD touchscreen, the EOS 90D allows you to get creative and photograph your subject from any angle. The camera also comes equipped with a 32.5MP APS-CCMOS sensor and the ability to shoot 4K 30p and Full HD 120p movies.
Key Features:
- 32.5 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
- ISO range 100-25600 and auto option
- DCI 4K UHD video recording with 30 fps and FHD with 120fps
- Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus
- 41 all cross-type AF Points
- 3-inch vari angle LCD touch display
- Inbuilt wifi and Bluetooth
Pros:
- 10 fps continues shooting
- DIGIC 8 image processor
- EOS iTR AF
- Built-in GPS and wifi, NFC, and Bluetooth
- Mechanical shutter and electronic mix 1st curtain shutter offers a max speed of 1/8000 of a second
Cons:
- No built-in flash
- Only one card slot
- Not full-frame sensor (APS-C)
5. Canon 80D
(Price ~$830)
The Canon EOS 80D is a Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) camera with a 24.2 megapixel CMOS sensor and a DIGIC 6 image processor. It updates the Canon EOS 70D with a 25-point cross-type AF system and 6 fps continuous shooting speed.
When you need outstanding image quality in various situations, the Canon EOS 80D DSLR Camera delivers. From wedding photos and sports to concerts and wildlife, it helps you get spectacular images and movies with ease. Its 24.2 MP sensor combined with the DIGIC 6 Image Processor delivers images with maximum detail, rich tonality, and natural colour gradations. A significantly improved 45-point cross-type AF system achieves highly accurate autofocus quickly and maintains focus on subjects that are moving rapidly, so you won’t miss a shot. Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Phase-Detect gives you smooth, fast, and accurate autofocus when shooting videos or stills in live view.
Key Features:
- 24.2 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
- ISO range 100-12800 and auto option
- 1080p Full HD 60fps
- Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus
- 45 all cross-type AF Points
- 3-inch vari angle LCD touch display
Pros:
- 7 fps continues shooting
- DIGIC 6 image processor
- Built-in NFC and wifi
- Good price
Cons:
- No built-in flash
- Only one card slot
- Small sensor size (APS-C)
- Less Megapixels than 90D
6. Nikon D850
(Price ~$2300)
The Nikon D850 is a mid-range full-frame DSLR camera announced by Nikon on September 25, 2017. It succeeds the Nikon D810.
The Nikon D850 is the first DSLR to deliver 4K UHD video at 60 frames per second, as well as extraordinary low-light performance and enhanced speed for still images. Built on the legacy of Nikon’s legendary D-SLRs, it features a 45.7MP backside-illuminated full-frame sensor without an optical low pass filter (OLPF), a new Expeed 5 image-processing engine, and an updated shutter that offers speeds as fast as 1/8000 sec, with a 180,000-cycle lifetime. This camera is designed to keep up with the most dedicated photographers—shooters who demand the highest performance from their equipment.
Key Feature:
- 45.7 megapixel Full Frame Body
- ISO range 64 – 25,600 and extends up to 32 – 102,400
- 4K UHD video recording. 1080p slow-motion video with 120fps
- 153 focus points, 99 cross-type AF Points
- Tilting screen LCD touch display
Pros:
- 9 fps continues shooting
- Expeed 5 image processor
- Built-in NFC and wifi
Cons:
- No built-in flash
- A mixture of XQD and SD card slot
7. Nikon D750
(Price ~$1700)
This is the first time something like this has ever been seen in a DSLR of this caliber. For the first time, a 24.3-megapixel full-frame sensor is combined with a powerful processing engine to bring out every detail and ensure great image quality. The 36.3mm optical FX-format sensor affords a high-resolution mode for outstanding detail and an effective pixel count of 6.0 megapixels.
The Nikon D750 FX-format digital SLR camera is a versatile, feature-packed tool for both stills and video capture – from the wedding podium to the sidelines of the big game. With its superior low-light performance, an expansive ISO range of 100-12800 (expandable to 32000), and fast data readout, the D750 excels in any situation where the light is challenging. It also offers a host of user-friendly features – including a 3.2-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 921k dots, a new Multi-Selector, improved immense viewfinder visibility, and a tilting 3.2-inch LCD with 921k dots.
Key Features:
- 24.3 megapixel Full Frame 35mm Body
- ISO range 100-12800, expandable to 50-51200
- 1080p video recording with a maximum of 60fps and a minimum of 24fps.
- 51-point AF points with 15 cross-type sensors
- Tilting 3.2 inch LCD
Pros:
- 6.5 fps continues shooting
- Expeed 4 image processor
- Built-in wifi
Cons:
- Reports of freezing sometimes
8. Nikon D5
(Price ~$6500)
The power of choice has never been so accessible. The freedom to shoot, create and share. The power of photography to preserve the most cherished of moments. Built to stand up to the rigors of wedding photography, the D5 is the ultimate tool for the most challenging assignments—day or night, rain or shine. It’s a great choice as a wedding photography camera and certainly a good option if stunning imagery is your ultimate goal.
Nikon D5 is the industry’s first DSLR that uses the entire sensor width for both stills and video. It is also Nikon’s first DSLR to be equipped with a full-frame BSI CMOS image sensor, which enhances the camera’s image quality while also contributing to its compact, lightweight design. The Nikon D5 is also the first Nikon DSLR to use a newly developed image-processing engine that supports 14-bit image data. 14-bit image data is the same as that used in cinematography and is four times as precise as the processing used in conventional digital cameras. This high-precision processing enables the D5 to reproduce extremely subtle gradations and details of colour and tone, creating images that are beautifully rendered.
Key Features:
- 20.8-megapixel FX-format CMOS Sensor
- ISO range 100 to 102,400, expandable to Hi-5 ISO 3,280,000
- 4k UHD video recording with 30fps rate
- 153-point AF points with 99 cross-type focus point
- 3.2-inch dot touchscreen LCD
Pros:
- 12 fps continues shooting
- Expeed 5 image processor
- Built-in microphone
- 180K pixel RGB Sensor
Cons:
- Made for professionals, that’s why newbies can find the functions a bit complex.
- Reports of freezing sometimes
9. Sony a7iii
(Price ~$1999)
EDITORS PICK! *Excellent bang for-buck, great hybrid camera, fast auto-focus*
“ARGUABLY THE SWEET SPOT FOR IMAGE AND VIDEO QUALITY AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE”
Advanced 24.2MP Full frame Image Sensor w/ 1.8X readout speed Advanced 24.2MP Back Illuminated 35mm Full frame Image Sensor. Bluetooth Yes (Bluetooth Standard Ver. 4.1 (2.4 GHz band)). Compatible with Sony E mount lenses. External Flash Compatibility Sony α System Flash compatible with Multi Interface Shoe, attach the shoe adapter for flash compatible with Auto lock accessory shoe.
Key Features:
- Advanced 24.2MP BSI full frame Image Sensor w/ 1.8X readout speed
- 15 stop dynamic range, 14 bit uncompressed RAW, ISO 50 to 204,800. Compatible with Sony E mount lenses. Can be connected via Bluetooth with smartphones featuring (as of the date of release)- Android (Android 5.0 or later, Bluetooth 4.0 or later), iOS (Bluetooth 4.0 or later)
- Up to 10fps silent or mechanical shutter with AE/AF tracking. Battery life (Still Images): Approx. 610 shots (Viewfinder) / approx. 710 shots (LCD monitor), battery life (Movie, continuous recording): Approx. 200 min (Viewfinder) / Approx. 210 min (LCD monitor)
- 693 phase detection / 425 contrast AF points w/ 93 percent image coverage. Focus sensor: Exmor R CMOS sensor
Pros:
- Incredible ISO low light performance
- Small and compact
- Huge range of features
- Excellent auto-focus
- Good menu navigation
- Improved battery performance
Cons:
- Touchscreen isn’t always perfect
10. Sony a7R iii
(Price ~$2750)
EDITOR’S PICK – *Great camera, small size a lot of megapixels and good value*
The a7R III is the world’s first full-frame back-illuminated CMOS sensor with 42.4 megapixels and 399 focal-plane phase-detection AF points for fast and accurate AF in an extensive range of scenes and lighting conditions.
The Sony a7R III Camera w/ FE 28-135mm Lens is a versatile, high-resolution mirrorless digital camera featuring cutting-edge imaging technology and advanced 4K movie-making capability.
With a 42.4MP 35mm full-frame Exmor R BSI CMOS sensor and impressive BIONZ X image processor, the a7R III produces high-resolution still imagery and video with remarkable detail, sensitivity, and speed. The sensor and processor combo also avails high-speed continuous shooting up to 10fps with full AF/AE tracking and exposure monitoring and the ability to record 4K footage in multiple frame rates up to 60 fps.
Key Features:
- 42.4 megapixel Full Frame 35mm
- ISO range 100 to 32000, expandable to 102400.
- 4k UHD video recording with 30fps rate
- Hybrid 399 AF point plane phase-detection and 425 AF point contract detection AF
- 3 inch LCD
- 5 axis steady Shot
Pros:
- 10 fps continues shooting
- Exmor R sensor
- Decent battery life – 530 shots with viewfinder and 650 shots on the LCD monitor.
- Dual card slot
- Small and compact but great build quality
- Good video specs for use as hybrid camera
Cons:
- The exposure knob doesn’t have any lock.
11. Panasonic GH5
(Price ~$1350)
Said to be more of a video-centric camera, the Panasonic GH5 holds up surprisingly well for photography as well!
With a durable, magnesium alloy body that’s splash/dust/freeze proof, the mirrorless design enables a lighter, more compact camera body that can go anywhere you can.
Cutting edge features include 4K 60p (4:2:0 8 bit) and 30p (4:2:2 10 bit) in camera cinematic video, 5Ghz Wi Fi + Bluetooth for fast connection and image transfer, lightning fast DFD focusing, 5 axis dual I.S 2.0 stabilization.
Twin SD Card slots (UHS II U3 compatible), 3.5mm microphone & headphone terminals and optional DMW XLR1 microphone adaptor. Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac 5GHz Wi Fi is not available in some countries.
Key Features:
- Splash/Freeze Proof Design
- Dual image stabilization: 5 axis dual image stabilization corrects all lenses, including classic lenses not equipped with O. I. S, to eliminate Blur and nearly eliminate body and lens shake in both photo and 4K video recording
- 4K video capture: Records silky smooth 4K 60P/50P (QFHD 4K: 3840 x 2160/ MOV or MP4) video with internal 4: 2: 2 10 bit 4K video recording, Plus exclusive 6K photo and 4K post focus records photos up to 60Fps
- Connectivity & Ports: 3.5 millimeter audio port, connect to devices with USB 3.0, an external monitor or external Recorder with a full size HDMI port; Available Twin SD card slots (UHS II U3 compatible)
Pros:
- Very solid feeling construction
- Excellent image stabilization
- Good Megapixel count
- Excellent hybrid camera option
- Great battery life
- Excellent custom buttons and menu system
Cons:
- Small sensor (micro four thirds) Smaller than aps-c
- Limited low-light performance – mostly due to small sensor
- Auto-focus not very fast with non-Panasonic lenses
12. Panasonic S5
(Price ~$1700)
*Top pick – super versatile and insane features!*
Panasonic’s full-frame mirrorless camera which doesn’t break the bank! Incredible amount of features packed into a very small body. It’s kind of like the full-frame version of the GH5 that’s better in low-light situations.
Key Features:
- A LIGHTWEIGHT, POWERFUL HYBRID CAMERA FOR VIBRANT STILL PHOTOGRAPHY AND CINEMATIC VIDEO: Realize your creative vision with extraordinary 4K 60p, 10-bit video, FHD 180fps Slow Motion option as well as 4:3 Anamorphic support.
- DETAILED PHOTO AND VIDEO THAT WILL DELIGHT ENTHUSIASTS AND EXPERTS ALIKE: Capture content in impressive high quality with 96MP High Resolution mode, Dual Native ISO to minimize noise in high sensitivity and V-Log/V-Gamut with 14+ stop dynamic range.
- IMPROVED, HIGH-PRECISION AUTOFOCUS AND POWERFUL IMAGE STABILIZATION: Improved autofocus includes detection of the head as well as eyes, face and body, to capture subjects with ease and precision. 5-axis Dual I.S. 2 enables 6.5-stop slower shutter speed.
- EXPANDED FEATURES OFFER NEW LEVELS OF CREATIVITY: Use Live View Composite mode to instantly create a stunning image out of several live shots to capture fireworks or a starry sky
Pros:
- Great battery life
- Ability to create 96megapixel still images
- Easy to use menu
- Clean images even in low light situations
- Dual SD Card Slots
- Fully articulating rear screen
Cons:
- Auto-focus not as good as competitors (Sony and Canon)
- Editor’s note: If Panasonic had better auto-focus, this camera would be basically unbeatable for price/features. Even as is, it’s still a GREAT CHOICE!
- Image stabilization good but not quite as good as GH5 (still great though)
13. Fujifilm X Pro 2
(Price ~$1700)
The Fujifilm x-Pro2 is a camera designed for professional wedding and portrait photographers who need a medium format look with the convenience of an APS-C sensor.
Fujifilm X-Pro 2 is a mirrorless digital camera announced by Fujifilm on September 19, 2016. It succeeds the Fujifilm X-Pro1. The Fujifilm X-Pro 2 is “the world’s first camera to feature an APS-C sensor with phase detection autofocus for both stills and video recording.” The X-Pro 2’s autofocus system performs phase detection autofocus on the sensor, which also has a built-in “hybrid viewfinder” that uses both an electronic viewfinder and optical viewfinder components. X-Pro 2’s electronic viewfinder has a resolution of 2.36 million dots and approximates the same FOV as the optical viewfinder.
Key Features:
- 24.3-megapixel ASP-C sensor
- ISO range up to 51200, expandable to 50-204800.
- 1080p video recording
- Hybrid 273 AF point phase detection
- 3 inch LCD with 1620K dots
- 5 axis steady Shot
Pros:
- 8 fps continues shooting
- X-Trans CMOS III sensor
- 1/8000 sec shutter speed
- Dual memory card slot
Cons:
- Heating issue
- Lens options limited
- APS-C Sensor
Quick-Tip Buying Guide For Cameras For Wedding Photographers
- High ISO with Low Noise: High iso performance gives you the original colour of the scenario. It gives you relief from moving your speedlights in each scene.
- Multiple Card Slot: Card failure isn’t fun, it’s good to have a backup! If you have an option to purchase a camera with dual slots then it’s sometimes a life saver, particularly for wedding shoots, as you don’t get a second chance at those shots.
- Design and Button ergonomics: You always want an ergonomic design with all buttons in a convenient position. You don’t want to be searching for buttons or settings while shooting. Every second counts!
- Battery Life and Extra Battery: Battery life is a must-have thing in a camera. In the wedding photography industry, we always need a bigger battery with an incredible lifespan. Check the shot count on each charge before buying. For more safety and use, you always had to carry an extra battery. Many camera models also have a battery grip accessory addon which can come in very handy for long shoots like weddings.
- Durability: Durability is a must-have thing in any gear. Your camera will go through a tough time in the wedding ceremony. It can fall have any kind of accident. Weather sealing for rain and dust is something to give consideration too as some brands and models far out-perform others. For example I have always found Canon cameras to have incredible durability and weather sealing.
- Burst Shooting and Focus Speed: Burst shooting is used in continuous shooting. Great for sports but also for weddings where the perfect moment may come and go in a micro-second. The more frames it can capture per second, the more options you have. Auto-focus capability is also a HUGE help in these situations. I have found some cameras are impeccable for accuracy and speed and other auto-focus systems are basically unusable in a real-world environment.
Conclusion
Every photographer has different needs for their camera and different budgets.
The best thing to do is decide your budget and select the camera within that range that you think will suit you.
You can always change later!
Remember, you’re not married to the camera or brand, you can always upgrade or change in the future as you develop more clients and work.
The only other thing to think about is whether you may also like to use the camera for video -both inside or outside of wedding photography.
This would mean going for certain brands like Sony or Canon who have strong video specs is going to be better than some other brands.