Have you ever wondered what the most expensive camera in the world is? We know, we often hear that the gear doesn’t make the photographer, right? A good photographer with excellent skills will take amazing photographs no matter what types of camera they use.
But it’s always nice to dream and want to put our hands on the best camera possible. Wouldn’t it be great to shoot with a camera that has all the best features and can make you feel like a million bucks?
We’ve compiled a list of the most expensive cameras in the world. Go ahead and put your favorite on your wishlist.
Most Expensive Cameras in the World
1. Leica camera from 1923
The 1923 Leica 0 series film camera fetched a whopping $2.96 million at an auction in Austria. The model was a prototype and one of only twenty-five produced in that series. Twelve have survived the test of time, but only three are still in good condition.
After testing the prototypes, Leica introduced its first series in 1925, pioneering its way into the photography world as one of the leading camera brands.
The buyer is said to be an anonymous private collector in Asia. That was quite an amount of money to put down on a camera!
2. Susse Frères Daguerreotype Camera
In 1839 the world was introduced to the first-ever photographic process called the daguerreotype. Louis Daguerre produced the first cameras with manufacturers Maison Susse Frères and Alfonse Giroux. The pinhole cameras, also known as camera obscura, were made available for the general public that year, although not affordable for most.
Thought to be long gone, a Suisse Frères camera was discovered in a former Frankfurt University professor’s personal effects in 2006. It was auctioned in 2007 for $740,000.
That’s quite a piece of photography history to hold!
So we’ve covered the cameras that made history and that are definitely unattainable for the average person. Now let’s look at some of the most expensive cameras that are available today.
Most Expensive Medium Format Cameras
3. Phase One XF IQ4 150MP Camera System
Phase One customizable modular system cameras are the go-to cameras for professional photographers.
With the price point at approximately $50,000, the full-frame medium format Phase One XF IQ4 150MP is the most flexible and future-forward on the market today.
Supported on its Infinity Platform, this Phase One IQ series camera is built to grow and expand as new technology continuously becomes available.
4. Hasselblad H6D-400c MS
Priced at $48,000, the Hasselblad H6D-400c MS is a close next on the list of most expensive medium format cameras. It certainly beats all of its competitors when it comes to megapixels. Hasselblad has pushed the limits to a grand 400MP with this model.
The camera takes a series of 6 shots through their Multi-shot Technology every time the shutter is pressed. The images are stitched together to attain the 400MP final image.
But who in the world needs 400MP? Probably art restaurateurs and museums. The camera also has the 100MP option with the same Multi-shot Technology for the regular professional photographer.
Most Expensive DSLR
Buying a camera that costs more than your car is probably not in your immediate plans, right? Digital SLRs are more affordable and undoubtedly the most popular cameras used by professionals and photo enthusiasts alike. The price points tend to be more accessible, and the more expensive ones usually package the best features and technology.
Related: Comparing Nikon D5300 vs D5600 DSLR
5. Nikon D5
The Nikon D5 introduces a radically upgraded 153-point autofocus system that is great for action photographers. The brand new sensor added to the D5 is excellent for shooting in low-light conditions.
Priced at $6500, this Nikon model is a top choice for sports photographers, wedding photographers, or any other type of serious photographer that requires speed, reliability, and durability.
6. Canon EOS-1D X Mark II
Canon has upgraded its iconic 1D model by featuring a new sensor with an even more dynamic range than its predecessors. The Canon EOS-1D Mark II remains a go-to for professional photographers and videographers. This model’s 4K/60p video definitely won’t disappoint even the most serious videographers.
Priced at $5500, this powerhouse camera is one of the priciest DSLRs on the market today.
7. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
The successful EOS 5D Mark series from Canon is popular with professional photographers for a reason. The new Canon EOS 5D Mark IV features 30.4 MP resolution and an upgraded 7fps continuous shooting capacity.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV will set you back about $3000.
Most Expensive Mirrorless Camera
Mirrorless cameras are taking the professional photographer’s world by storm. Most camera brands are moving quickly to provide the expected top quality found in the full-frame DSLRs into a more compact and convenient camera body.
8. Leica SL (Typ 601)
The Leica SL (Typ 601) comes at a whopping MSRP of $7450, which makes it more expensive than even the priciest full-frame DSLR. The iconic camera brand focuses on serving its faithful followers that enjoy the Leica experience and look.
This Leica possesses the best electronic viewfinder offered on any brand on the market today. It’s also built to withstand some pretty grueling weather conditions.
9. Leica CL with 18-56mm Kit
Leica makes attractive cameras. There’s no doubt about that, and the Leica CL with 18-56mm Kit lens is no exception. It’s compact and easy to carry and won’t disappoint most photographers.
This classy camera and kit lens will cost you about $4000.
10. Sony Alpha a9
Sony caters to the action and wildlife photographer’s world with its professional quality A9 model that is priced at $4500. It can silently shoot at 20fps with no vibration. The compact size and low weight of the Sony Alpha a9 model makes it easier to handle and carry than the bulky DSLRs.
But don’t get fooled by the small size because it’s built for speed and productivity.
Most Expensive Point and Shoot Camera
Point-and-shoot compact cameras are the easiest to handle, small, and great for traveling.
11. Leica Q (Typ 116)
The Leica Q (Typ 116) boasts top quality build, a full-frame sensor with 24MP resolution, and a fixed 28mm f1.7 lens. This makes it an excellent camera for street and travel photographers.
It’s still quite pricey at $6,700, but unlike the other cameras listed in this article, that price includes the body and lens.
12. Sony Cybershot RX1 RII
The Sony Cybershot RX1 RII sells for $3300 and is the smallest full-frame camera available on the market today. It features a 42MP resolution and a fixed ZEISS 35mm f2 lens. This is the perfect pocket camera for those looking for excellent image quality and transportability.
Most Expensive Cameras in the World | Conclusion
These expensive cameras will set you back quite a lot of cash, but you don’t need to shell out that much money to produce great photographs. Learning better techniques and expanding your creativity will make you a better photographer, not how much your camera costs.
