Whether you are a professional photographer, a hobbyist snapper, or an aspiring amateur, there is one thing that is clear: the equipment you choose can make or break the success of your photographs.
When you are fairly new to the world of photography, the complexity of an all-singing, all-dancing, bells and whistles DSLR can seem a little overwhelming – not to mention costing a small fortune.
In addition, a full camera is not always necessary in the early stages – here, a bridge camera can produce shots of an equally professional quality, for a fraction of the price, and with less of an intense learning curve.
Though bridge cameras are a little less overwhelming, there are still a wide range of options available, and it is easy to feel confused – how do you choose the best one for your needs?
Fortunately for you, we have put together the top bridge cameras on the market for your consideration, as well as the ultimate guide to help you make a smart, informed decision.
Ready to kickstart your photography career in style? Read on for everything you need to know and get ready to pick your very first bridge camera.
Best Bridge Camera – Comparison Table
Best Bridge Camera – Reviews
If you are on the hunt for a sleek, slick all-rounder, this Panasonic LUMIX is the perfect purchase and offers multifunctionality in a stunning, easy-to-use package.
The unit includes a 25-400m Leica lens, allowing you to enjoy super speedy, sharp, and clear autofocus – no matter when the perfect shot presents itself, you will be there to grab the action as it happens.
You can enjoy macro photography down to 3 centimeters, and a hybrid optical image stabilizer combined with 5-axis correction allows you to point and shoot, rest assured that your final shot will be clear and sharp, no matter how fast you have to move.
The LUMIX is also revered for its excellent sensor quality; the camera packs a 1 inch 20.1 megapixel MOS sensor, ensuring that you can capture incredible shots, even in low lights, and still guarantee a crystal clear background.
This feature makes the Lumix ideal for evening and sunrise shots, or in situations where the weather conditions are not on your side.
In addition, you can enjoy both still photographs and high-quality 4K video, as well as 8MP video frame grabs, making this a versatile two-in-one option.
- Offers dual functionality – shoot both high-quality stills and videos
- Crystal clear backgrounds thanks to the Leica lens
- Shoot in a range of lights and weathers
- Integrated smartphone Wi-Fi makes editing super easy
- Zoom is a little slow compared to other models
Second place on our list goes to the Sony RX10 model, and this has a strong reputation as one of the best bridge cameras on the market, and this is a device which can perform a huge number of tasks, all while offering simpler, more straightforward operation than many of the more complex cameras on the market.
The unit is greatly enhanced by the generous 1-inch sensor, which allows plenty of light to enter the camera, and offers the chance to create a range of creative, unique shots.
In addition, the device boasts a 315 point “phase detect” autofocus feature, and this makes the Sony a popular option for photographers who enjoy capturing sports, events, or any situation where your subjects may be moving quickly – you can grab the perfect shot, without having to worry about blurred backgrounds or poor focuses.
If you are looking to get up close and personal with your subject, make the most of the tele-macro lens, which boasts a minimum focusing distance of 2.36ft, as well as an impressive 0.49x maximum magnification, offering staggeringly detailed images, retaining an amazingly high quality.
- Fast AF acquisition time at an impressive 0.03 seconds
- Up to 24 frames per second for amazing, continuous shooting
- “All in one” option – saving you money, and increasing convenience
- The 1-inch sensor allows plenty of light into the unit
- Very expensive compared to other models
Panasonic has a top-quality reputation in the world of photography, and it is easy to see why – they continue to produce top-quality equipment, which is suitable for photography fans at all levels.
This Panasonic camera is no exception – particularly if you are a fan of moviemaking and filmography. The unit can easily handle 4k ultra HD video at a number of speeds – 24p, 25p, and 30p, as well as taking high-quality still photos.
In short, you will have a powerhouse of creativity at the click of a button and can bring your images and ideas to life.
You can guarantee that you enjoy crystal-clear images with every snap thanks to a 5 axis hybrid optical image stabilization system – this means that even when filming, you can focus on the action, and on setting up and creating the perfect shot.
Even if you have the camera tilted, or the ground is not quite stable, the level shot function will detect the horizon, and maintain it throughout the shoot.
With 24x zoom and f/2.8 aperture, you can enjoy quality results even when shooting in low light, while a 12.1 megapixel MOS sensor allows you to guarantee crisp, clear images, letting in plenty of light for quality final images.
As an added bonus, the design is durable and hardwearing, making it perfect for harsher weather or environments.
- Hardwearing and durable – perfect for shooting outdoors or for travel photos
- Easy to use thanks to touch screen and Wi-Fi
- High image quality thanks to a quality sensor
- Perfect for filming – with a wide range of settings and options
- Slightly older than other models – may lack some functionality compared to more modern options.
Once again, we include a classic brand on our list – Nikon is another well-known name in the world of photography, and this Coolpix model is a perfect option for anyone who is keen to capture each and every detail of your images.
This is a model with an x125 zoom range, making it ideal for shooting intricate shots of wildlife, architecture, and even the hidden aspects of landscapes.
For some perspective, this range of zoom potential offers the equivalency of adding a 3000mm lens to the body of your camera – but with all the convenience and portability of a bridge camera.
If this is not enough, 250x Dynamic F|ine digital zoom allows you to increase your zoom even further, offering a focal length equivalent to 6000mm.
As an added bonus, you can guarantee that your close-ups are stable and perfectly focused thanks to Nikon's Dual Detect Optical Vibration reduction – this is designed to offer 5 different stops of optical image stabilization.
Even if you are taking a telephoto shot from far away, your shot will be as clear and crisp as if you were standing right beside your subject.
- Amazing zoom capability allows you to get up close and personal to your subject, even if you are a significant distance away.
- Enjoy the convenience and portability of a bridge camera, with the power and strength of a separate lens
- Reduce vibration for a clear, stable shot
- Range of shooting modes, making this ideal for any light, scenario, or situation
- Battery life is not as generous or powerful as some other models, and no second battery is included, though this can be purchased separately.
For those who prioritize convenience, portability, and a compact model, this Leica unit is an ideal pick – and you do not have to worry about sacrificing the quality of your photographs.
Blending high-end operation with super-advanced power and capabilities, this is a deceptive device, and the smaller size belies the technology which is hidden inside.
Small, lightweight, and powerful, this is an ideal option if you are planning to travel and record your journey, especially thanks to the inclusion of a quality auto-focus system.
If you are looking to bring high-quality videos to life, the inclusion of 4k capability will be a welcome discovery, while 12 frames per second allow continuous burst shooting, allowing you to capture every moment, no matter how fast it creeps up on you.
- 4k photo and video capability – grab the highest quality shots as they appear.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity allows you to upload your photos and files on the go for added peace of mind
- An easy-to-use autofocus system ensures that your shots are stable and clear, even if you are working quickly
- USB charging means that you can be ready to go at any moment
- Instructions are basic, and so this may not be the best idea for total newbies
Best Bridge Camera – Buyers Guide
Now that we have taken a look at the most popular options available on the market, just how do you select the best bridge camera for your needs?
We have put together the ultimate buyers guide to help you make a smart, informed decision.
There are a few considerations to bear in mind, and we will explore these below.
Image Quality And Resolution
Perhaps the most important consideration is the quality and resolution of the image you desire.
In the simplest terms, there are two main types of sensors that are found in a bridge camera: there may be a CCD sensor or a CMOS sensor.
A CMOS sensor is the closest fit to a DSLR and is substantially larger in size than a CCD sensor. This larger size is beneficial – the larger the area, the more pixels are available to be analyzed, and the higher the quality of the image to be captured.
Image resolution is another important factor, and as a general rule, you should opt for the highest resolution you can afford. Most cameras will vary from 6 megapixels right up to 20 megapixels – the higher the number of pixels, the higher the quality of your image.
Lens And Zoom
Another important factor in your decision is the lens of the camera – the quality of the lens will have a significant impact on the highest quality image your camera is able to capture.
The higher quality of the lens, the better clarity, and quality of your images, especially in low or unfavorable lighting conditions.
Zoom is another very important consideration, particularly as you cannot change the lens on a bridge camera. By opting for a model with superzoom features, you will be able to capture every shot in perfect detail, without the added worry about choosing and fitting the right lens.
There are two types of zoom to choose from: optical and digital. Optical zoom is the more advanced of the two and allows you to actually physically zoom into the scene using the lens optics – everything you see, you can capture.
Digital zoom, on the other hand, uses the technology in the camera to enhance the zoom digitally – in other words, the subject seems closer but is actually the same distance away.
In some cases, this can result in grain appearing on the final image, and the detail can be lost the closer you zoom in. While both options have their benefits, optical zoom is typically clearer, especially in low light.
When choosing your bridge camera, you should take a little time to consider how important zoom is – are you planning to shoot subjects far away, such as wildlife or landscape images?
If so, then selecting optical zoom is likely to be a key priority – more so than if your focus is on close-up subjects, such as portraits.
Screen Or Viewfinder
Once you have shot your images, you will need a good-sized screen or viewfinder in order to check that you have captured the perfect shot. In most models, the screen will include a 3 inch LCD screen or a TFT screen which is similar to the majority of smartphones.
You need to ensure that the screen you choose allows you to frame shots clearly and easily, and set up the image that you desire.
In budget models, you will likely have a fixed screen, but investing a little more will typically give you a screen that can move, tilt or even swivel – these are great for clear viewing and greater flexibility.
If you have a lack of memory or want to conserve this as much as possible, it is a good idea to find a flexible screen that allows you to see shots as clearly as possible – this means that you can edit and delete them as you go, saving precious space.
It is also useful to opt for a camera with an electronic viewfinder, particularly if you plan to shoot outside on a regular basis – this will ensure that you can still frame your shots, even in strong or direct sunlight.
Finally, when choosing your screen, always go for the highest resolution you can afford – this will give you a brighter, clearer screen.
Image Stabilization
When you are focusing on capturing the perfect moment, it can be easy for your hands to shake or move if you become distracted, and this has the potential to wreck what could be a beautiful shot.
To help counter this, it is a good idea to look for a camera with image stabilization, and this is especially important if you plan to shoot outside, or for long periods of time – for example, if you are shooting wildlife or a landscape scene which requires symmetry.
Image stabilization takes care of the hard work for you, reducing the impact of shaking hands, and keeping your images sharp, clear, and crisp. This can save your shot if you are working in a low light, or using a long zoom to capture every detail.
Wi-Fi Options
Depending on your budget, you may be able to grab a camera that includes wi-fi and geo-tagging, allowing you to automatically record the spot where your photo was taken.
You may also be able to connect the camera to your phone, and transform the images across to keep them safe – you could also upload them to a laptop or PC.
In some cases, you can also use a laptop to view your photos on the go, making up for a smaller viewfinder.
Frames Per Second
If you are shooting images that tend to move fast and change quickly, then you will need a higher level of frames per second – also known as fps or burst rate.
Your camera will have information detailing how many frames it can take per second, and you should select the highest possible option if you need to keep up with a speedy subject.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Better: DSLR Or Bridge Cameras?
Both bridge and DSLR cameras have their pros and cons; in the simplest terms, a bridge camera is a halfway point between a compact camera and a DSLR. They will offer more sophisticated and advanced features than basic compact cameras, including manual controls to allow you to take charge of shutter speed, ISO, or aperture. They do not offer the advanced features of DSLR models or mirrorless cameras but are a great option for capturing high-quality images on a budget.
Do Bridge Cameras Have Viewfinders?
Bridge cameras have two options when it comes to viewfinders – a more basic LCD, and a more advanced electronic viewfinder – the latter will distinguish bridge cameras from compact models.
Are Bridge Cameras Good For Portraits?
Bridge cameras are ideal for a range of types of photos, and will typically come with a wide range of preset scenes and effects, allowing you to capture an ideal portrait.
What Should I Look For In A Good Bridge Camera?
A good bridge camera will have a wide zoom range, encompassing both wide-angle and telephoto, as well as a good blend of manual controls and automatic settings.
They will also be sturdy and durable, but also lightweight enough to handle easily and comfortably.