5 Best DSLR Cameras for Professional Vacation Photos in UAE in 2023

Our experts tell us that these cameras enjoy a certain popularity among certain circles today. What mirrorless cannot do, DSLR makes up for it in stride.

“In a DSLR, you’re looking through an optical viewfinder. The image you see [when framing a shot], is the reflection of the inner mirror. So if your camera settings are too bright or too dark, you can only tell when you click on the picture,” explains Raz Hansrod, general manager, exhibitions and art prints at Gulf Photo Plus (GPP), Dubai’s photography studio centre.

Mirrorless cameras, by contrast, allow you to edit and adjust settings in real time. The caveat with this electronic viewfinder is that the battery drains much faster, Hansrod said. DLSRs don’t have to provide power exclusively for image previews, so they can deliver more shots than mirrorless cameras.

“People who like sports, car and nature photography will choose DSLRs because they focus faster than mirrorless cameras. And, because of the crop factor of DSLRs, you can zoom in even further,” he added.

As a traveler, you’ll be ready to let go of any options that frustrate you. DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) camera lenses are bulky and require special packing gear to carry them around safely. But these are small sacrifices you can make if you want to capture fast-moving subjects and more detail.

“If you’re planning a safari, a bird watching expedition, or if you’re traveling to a Formula 1 race, then a DSLR really makes sense. Mirrorless cameras don’t help with those specific interests,” says Hans Rhodes.

Picking the best DSLR model for you starts with whether you already own the lens. Photographers will choose a camera of the same brand as the lens because they have committed to investing in it. While lenses are an extra expense, they’re generally more durable than camera bodies and rarely need to be replaced.

“For general photography while traveling, we always recommend carrying one or two versatile lenses, not more. Get a lens that gives you a flexible range, such as a 24mm to 105mm lens, which lets you shoot distant Architecture and food on your plate,” suggests Hansroede.

We’ve rounded up our experts’ picks for the best DLSR cameras in the list below, so you can get ready for summer photography. Note that most of these cameras come from the only two manufacturers that continue to make existing DSLR models.Now’s the time to splurge, like this one from Amazon Limited Time Deals on Electronics.

Compare the advantages and disadvantages of different models at a glance, choose as you like main Get free, fast delivery on some of them.

Hansrod says the Canon EOS 80D is the DSLR used by both professional and intermediate photographers. Its 24.2-megapixel APS-C (Advanced Photo System Type-C) sensor is smaller than a full-frame sensor, but makes it easier to capture close-ups. All ready-to-shoot images can be framed on the 7.7cm LCD touchscreen, which pops up for even more control. Click high-precision shooting with a responsive 45-point autofocus system, meaning any quick sporting action looks crystal clear. The autofocus system is also designed to work in difficult lighting conditions such as floodlights. A picnic at the zoo or by the lake, whatever spontaneity nature brings, can be captured with 7 fps (frames per second) burst shooting. As for video, the movie size can be up to 1080p at 60 fps with a duration of 30 minutes. On a single charge, expect to capture approximately 960 images before the next cycle. Of course, all your images and videos can be shared via built-in Wi-Fi and NFC (Near Field Communication) capabilities. The included 18-135mm lens kit is suitable for landscape, portrait, and film, and reviewers call it a do-it-all accessory.

bonus: Buy with 0% installments and pay Dh408.25 for 12 months at designated banks.

Warranty: Amazon is offering a one-year extended warranty for Dh284 and a two-year extended warranty for Dh470.

The Nikon D5600 DSLR offers similar specs at a lower price. The manufacturer calls it travel-ready, and the body weighs only 415 grams. It also features a deep grip for a safe and secure hold on the camera. Like the Canon EOS 80D, the image sensor is 24.2MP, but with a larger pop-up 8.1cm LCD touchscreen so you can select AF points more easily. The autofocus system consists of 39 points, just a few sensors behind the 80D, and bursts capture up to five frames per second. The D5600 has better battery life, with a total of 970 shots. In addition to NFC, there’s the added convenience of Bluetooth connectivity for instant sharing of images. Despite the wide range of features, reviewers found the model to be user-friendly. They’re also impressed with the included 18-140mm lens, which takes sharp, colorful photos of everything from landscapes to people.

bonus: Buy with 0% installments and pay Dh299.83 for 12 months at designated banks.

Warranty: Amazon is offering a one-year extended warranty for the Dh227 and a two-year extended warranty for the Dh375.

The Canon EOS 2000D immerses you in the world of DSLR photography. Hansrod recommends this entry-level model for beginners looking to connect to smart devices with a simple interface and instant Wi-Fi. It features a 24.1-megapixel APS-C sensor, and you can compose your shots with the help of the 7.5cm LCD screen. The EOS 2000D has multi-point AF selection and a variety of shooting modes, from food to night portraits. Your 1080p, 30 fps video can be recorded for up to 30 minutes at a time. When it’s time to share your vacation memories, leave your laptop behind and download Canon’s Camera Connect app. This app instantly shares your vacation library and lets you click the shutter remotely. NFC is another sharing option, but it’s only available on Android devices. Plus, you can use the included 18-55mm lens right out of the box. At this great price, many users make it their first camera and love that they can get the hang of it in no time. Autofocus is quick, as expected, but some people did notice that the video option could be better.

bonus: Buy with 0% installments and pay Dh106.25 for 12 months at designated banks.

Warranty: Amazon is offering a one-year extended warranty for the Dh74 and a two-year extended warranty for the Dh122.

The unpredictable weather in foreign lands can make even the most professional photographer nervous. The Pentax K-70 DSLR is a weather-resistant model that can withstand dusty, cold (-10 degrees Celsius) and rainy outdoor conditions. The 24.2MP APS-C image sensor captures high-quality images, so you can be sure of perfect frames in any lighting condition. The LCD monitor can even be switched to a night vision red light display for astrophotography in total darkness. If you spot a fast-moving object in the bushes, click 6 images per second and 40 images in a sequence to select the best high-resolution picture. Once you’ve found the best shot, apply one of 13 image modes to edit contrast, saturation, and sharpness. An additional 21 filters allow you to create social media ready results. Reviewers say it’s slightly heavier than other models, but the weight provides more stability when it comes to shooting. They experimented with time-lapse photography, still photography, portraits, and more, with success.

bonus: Buy with 0% installments and pay Dh255.19 for 12 months at designated banks.

Warranty: Amazon is offering a one-year extended warranty for Dh199 and a two-year extended warranty for Dh329.

Another pocket-sized option to consider is Nikon’s entry-model D3500 DSLR. It’s a compact camera, weighing 365 grams, that feels a lot like a point-and-shoot in the hand. The 24.2MP image sensor is still a steal at this price, while the autofocus system offers a choice of 11 focus points. Clicks five images per second and shoots Full HD 1080p video at 60fps. Unlike the D5600, the LCD doesn’t pop up, nor is it a touchscreen. However, the D3500 offers the longest battery life on this list, lasting 1,550 shots on a single charge. It supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections for fast sharing. There’s also an included 18-55mm lens to help you experiment right away. Reviewers liked the image results, but like our entry-level Canon option, video leaves more to be desired. Still, they add, the pictures are good enough to rival higher-end models.

bonus: Buy with 0% installments and pay Dh195.92 for 12 months at designated banks.

Warranty: Amazon is offering a one-year extended warranty for Dh137 and a two-year extended warranty for Dh225.

Our recommendations are independently selected by Gulf News editors. We may earn affiliate commissions if you decide to shop through links on our site because we are part of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.