There’s something magical about standing under a starry sky, camera in hand, trying to capture the vast beauty of the Milky Way. It’s a humbling experience, one that many photographers aspire to master. But as stunning as the night sky is, photographing it isn’t always easy. You need the right gear, especially the right camera, to capture the stars in crisp detail without excessive noise or motion blur.

That’s where this guide comes in. Whether you’re just starting or looking to upgrade your current setup, this article will help you choose the best camera for Milky Way photography. We’ll break down everything you need to know from camera sensor types to low-light performance, while reviewing some of the top models available in 2025. If you’re shopping for a camera to shoot the stars, keep reading. You’re in the right place.

What Makes a Camera Great for Milky Way Photography?

Capturing the Milky Way is very different from everyday photography. It’s not about speed or burst rate-it’s about sensitivity, clarity, and control. So, when looking for the best camera for Milky Way photography, you want to pay attention to a few critical features.

The most important factor is low-light performance. Cameras with larger sensors (like full-frame) tend to perform better in dark environments because they gather more light and produce cleaner images at higher ISO settings. A full-frame sensor gives you that smooth, noise-free sky even when shooting at ISO 3200 or 6400.

Another crucial feature is manual control. You need to be able to adjust your shutter speed, aperture, and ISO manually to properly expose the night sky. Cameras that offer easy manual controls are far better suited for astrophotography.

Also, look for a camera with good dynamic range. This helps you pull out detail from shadows (like the dark foreground) without blowing out the bright stars. And while megapixels do matter for large prints, higher resolution can also amplify noise. It’s about finding a balance.

Lastly, the ability to shoot in RAW format is essential. RAW files give you much more flexibility in post-processing, allowing you to enhance stars, reduce noise, and balance the contrast between sky and earth.

Full-Frame vs Crop Sensor: What Should You Choose?

This is one of the biggest questions aspiring astrophotographers ask: Should I go full-frame or stick with an APS-C (crop) sensor?

Full-frame cameras are often considered the best camera for Milky Way photography because they handle low light far better. Their larger sensors collect more light and offer cleaner images at higher ISOs. You’ll also benefit from a wider field of view with any given lens, which helps you capture more of the sky in a single shot.

However, crop-sensor cameras can still produce excellent results, especially when paired with fast, wide lenses. They’re also typically more affordable, lighter, and easier to carry into remote locations where Milky Way photography often happens.

If your budget allows, a full-frame camera will give you the best results. But if you’re just starting or trying astrophotography on a budget, don’t be afraid of APS-C or even Micro Four Thirds cameras. They can still deliver incredible Milky Way shots with the right technique and post-processing.

Best Full-Frame Cameras for Milky Way Photography in 2025

If you’re serious about capturing the Milky Way in all its glory, a full-frame camera should be at the top of your list. Let’s take a closer look at some top-performing models that consistently deliver stunning results in low light.

Sony A7 IV is a standout in this category. It’s a full-frame mirrorless camera with a 33MP sensor that offers superb dynamic range and excellent high ISO performance. Its real-time tracking and in-body image stabilization make it a joy to shoot handheld foregrounds, while long exposures under a tripod result in beautifully detailed star fields. It supports RAW formats and comes with a weather-sealed body perfect for nighttime outdoor use.

Canon EOS R8 is another popular option. This lightweight, full-frame mirrorless model is one of Canon’s more affordable entries, but it doesn’t compromise on performance. With a 24.2MP sensor and excellent low-light capabilities, it’s ideal for beginners and advanced users alike. It also supports Canon’s growing lineup of RF lenses, including wide, fast primes that are perfect for star photography.

For those who want pro-level performance, the Nikon Z6 III is an exceptional choice. Its 24.5MP full-frame sensor handles ISO ranges beautifully and delivers exceptional results for both photo and video. The body is rugged and weather-sealed, and the camera’s autofocus system, even in low light, is fast and accurate. If you’re committed to capturing ultra-sharp, noise-free Milky Way images, this is one of the best cameras for Milky Way photography setups you can buy.

Top APS-C Cameras That Deliver Surprisingly Great Results

Not ready for a full-frame setup? Don’t worry. Some of the best APS-C cameras can produce incredible images of the night sky, especially when paired with fast lenses.

The Fujifilm X-T5 is a top performer in the APS-C class. It offers a 40MP sensor, outstanding color reproduction, and strong low-light performance. While it’s not a full-frame model, its sensor is incredibly capable, and its design gives you full manual control at your fingertips. This makes it perfect for Milky Way shooting, especially when you want that tactile, analog-inspired shooting experience.

Canon EOS R7 is another worthy option. It’s Canon’s high-end APS-C mirrorless model, offering a 32.5MP sensor and deep integration with RF lenses. While it’s more commonly known for action photography, its high resolution and clean high-ISO output make it a solid pick for astrophotography as well. It’s also lighter and more budget-friendly than full-frame models, making it easier to hike out to dark-sky locations.

From the Nikon side, the Z50 still holds up as one of the best crop-sensor cameras in this category. It’s compact, performs well at ISO 1600–3200, and supports Nikon’s excellent Z-mount lenses. It’s an excellent budget-friendly option if you’re new to shooting stars and want a camera that offers strong performance without the premium price tag.

Best Micro Four Thirds Cameras for Milky Way Photography

While full-frame and APS-C cameras dominate the conversation, Micro Four Thirds (MFT) cameras still have a place in the world of astrophotography, especially for those who want portability, affordability, and flexibility. If you’re often hiking long distances to find that perfect dark-sky spot, a lightweight MFT camera might be just what you need.

The Olympus OM-1 (now under the OM System brand) is one of the strongest contenders in this category. Despite its smaller sensor, it offers excellent low-light performance, advanced computational features, and outstanding weather sealing. One of its most attractive features is Starry Sky AF-a focus mode specifically designed to help you lock focus on stars, which can otherwise be a challenge in the dark. The OM-1’s sensor handles higher ISOs better than previous Olympus models, making it one of the best cameras for Milky Way photography in the Micro Four Thirds segment.

Another option is the Panasonic Lumix G9 II, which offers a 25MP sensor, dual image stabilization, and the ability to shoot 80MP high-res JPEGs using sensor shift. It’s a camera built for speed and precision, and with a fast wide-angle lens, you can still capture stunning shots of the Milky Way. While you might face some noise challenges at higher ISOs compared to full-frame, post-processing techniques can easily compensate for this if you shoot in RAW.

The Role of Lenses in Milky Way Photography

Even the best camera for Milky Way photography can’t perform at its best without the right lens. For Milky Way shots, you want a lens that’s wide-angle and fast. That means a focal length between 14mm and 24mm (full-frame equivalent), and an aperture of f/2.8 or faster (like f/2, f/1.8, or even f/1.4).

A wide-angle lens helps capture more of the night sky, including dramatic foregrounds, mountains, or landscapes. The fast aperture allows more light to hit the sensor in shorter exposure times, crucial for preventing star trails when shooting without a tracker.

Some of the most popular lenses for Milky Way photography include the Sigma 14mm f/1.8 DG HSM Art, Sony 20mm f/1.8 G, Rokinon 14mm f/2.8, and Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM. These lenses are excellent for pulling in light and keeping stars tack sharp.

If you’re using a crop sensor or Micro Four Thirds body, make sure the lens gives you a similar wide field of view. For example, a 12mm lens on an APS-C sensor gives a field of view close to an 18mm lens on a full-frame, which is still very effective for star photography.

Essential Tips for Beginners in Milky Way Photography

Choosing the best camera for Milky Way photography is just one part of the journey. Knowing how to use that camera in the field makes all the difference.

1. Find Dark Skies: Light pollution is your biggest enemy. Use apps like Light Pollution Map or Dark Sky Finder to locate ideal shooting spots. National parks and remote countryside areas are great options.

2. Use a Tripod: Long exposure is a must for Milky Way photography. A sturdy tripod will keep your camera stable during 15 to 30-second exposures.

3. Manual Mode is Key: Set your camera to manual mode. Start with settings like f/2.8, 20 seconds, and ISO 3200. Adjust depending on your camera’s performance and ambient light.

4. Focus Manually: Autofocus usually fails in low light. Use live view, zoom in on a bright star, and manually adjust focus until the star appears sharp.

5. Shoot in RAW: Always shoot in RAW to retain the maximum amount of data. This makes a huge difference in editing, especially when balancing shadows and highlights.

6. Post-Processing: Software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop can help enhance your image, reduce noise, bring out details in the Milky Way, and boost contrast for that dramatic night-sky look.

Final Thoughts: Picking the Right Gear for Your Sky Adventures

Finding the best camera for Milky Way photography doesn’t have to be overwhelming. What matters most is understanding your needs and budget, then matching that with the right combination of sensor performance, lens quality, and manual controls.

If you’re a beginner looking for an affordable yet powerful setup, APS-C cameras like the Canon R7 or Fujifilm X-T5 are perfect. Want the best of the best? Go full-frame with the Sony A7 IV, Nikon Z6 III, or Canon EOS R8. And for the ultra-light travel-focused photographer, Micro Four Thirds options like the OM-1 or Lumix G9 II still deliver the goods.

Whatever your choice, the stars are waiting, and your next great shot could be just one click away.

Let aitinsider Perfect Your Astrophotography Shots

At aitinsider, we understand how much work goes into capturing that perfect Milky Way photo. But sometimes, even the best shots need a little post-production magic. That’s where we come in.

We offer professional image editing services, from noise reduction and contrast balancing to color correction and fine detail enhancement. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, our editors can help you bring out the best in your astrophotography.

Let your Milky Way images shine as brightly as the stars themselves visit aitinsider today and explore how we can take your photos to the next level.