When I’m looking for the best camera for street photography I think it should deliver a superior in-the-moment photographic experience. Shooting street photography is all about being there, blending within your surroundings, and finding that split-second moment where all the elements align.
As a street photographer, you’ll be a keen observer, with an eye for documenting daily life. Anything from eye-catching outfits to ironic coincidences can be the purview of the street photographer. It’s less about technical perfection, and more about capturing something raw and true.
We’ve split our list into two major categories: fixed lens compacts and interchangeable lens mirrorless cameras. If you’re purely street shooting, then a simple compact may be the way to go, while mirrorless cameras are more versatile, and a good choice if you might want to try other genres like wildlife, portrait, or landscape photography.
One more thing. Street photography has a rich history in the history of photography, and there’s a certain style to it. So we’ve taken into consideration the cameras we think best suit the style of shooting street. It’s not just about aesthetics; many of these more retro-styled cameras pack in features that complement the shoot-from-the-hip philosophy of street photography.
Gareth Bevan
Gareth is the Reviews Editor at Digital Camera World, and the person in charge of approving all the latest camera-related tech. Spending a lot of time out on the streets of London snapping away, he knows a thing or two about which cameras work well for discreet street cameras. Outside of this, expect to find him cycling around, or deep in a Netflix binge.
Want to see our choices in a hurry? Well here they are… and if you want to find out more about them, the jump links will take you down to give you the full story of why we recommend them.
Best hybrid
Bags of style backed up with serious imaging tech, the Fujifilm X100V has it all. The fifth in a line of prime-lens compacts, the X100V eschews zoom range in favor of a catch-it-all focal length and supreme image quality. Read more below
Best for stealth
The GR III, is a great option for street photography, so much so that it even comes in a dedicated “street edition” with a pop-on viewfinder and natty yellow stripe included. Read more below
Best compact camera
If you want the best of the best compact cameras on the market that has a 60MP sensor, and a whole lot of street-cred and a super-sharp fimxed 20mm f/1.7 Summilux then look no further. Read more below
Best for reach
The Sony RX100 VII is a brilliant compact camera that is small enough that you’ll go noticed pulling this out of your pocket for some discreet street shots, but with a decent optical zoom, you can also choose to get close in to your subjects.
Read more below
Best monochrome
The Leica Monchrom might be almost the definition of the classic street camera. Rangefinder design, manual focus only, and monochrome sensor. The camera might be limiting for many purposes, but for on the streets, it is perfect.
Read more below
Best cameras for street photography in 2024
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Best hybrid
(Image credit: Gareth Bevan / Digital Camera World)
Best for style
Specifications
Sensor: 40.2MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 5
Lens: 23mm (equivalent) f/2
Burst rate: 11fps
AF points: 117-area hybrid phase/contrast AF
LCD: 3-inch, 1.62m-dot tilting touchscreen
Viewfinder: Hybrid OVF/OLED EVF, 3.69m dots
Dimensions: 128.0 x 74.8 x 55.3mm
Weight: 478g (including battery and memory card)
Reasons to buy
+
Sharp lens, great sensor
+
Tilting touchscreen
Reasons to avoid
–
Fixed focal length (no zoom)
–
Extra money for weather sealing
Buy it if:
✅ You want a premium compact camera: The X100VI dominates the shrinking compact camera market. For a pocket-sized camera with an exceptional experience, this is it.
✅ You love retro-inspired cameras: The X100VI’s design echoes classic rangefinder film cameras. With exceptional build quality and a great feel, it’s perfect for stylish street photography.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You want to shoot at different focal lengths: The X100VI has a fixed 23mm lens that can’t be changed. While adapters can modify the focal length, they’re pricey and results vary.
❌ You want to shoot lots of video: The X100VI shoots good 6K video, but it lacks the versatility of interchangeable lens cameras, and its two-way tilting screen limits vlogging from tricky angles.
Bags of style backed up with serious imaging tech, the Fujifilm X100VI has it all. The fifth in a line of prime-lens compacts, the X100VI eschews zoom range in favor of a catch-it-all focal length and supreme image quality.
In our review, we found it to be a supremely enjoyable camera to use, I’d say it’s one of the most purely enjoyable cameras that’s ever been made.
The X100V has evidently been put together with street photographers in mind; its dial-based controls hark back to the old days of street photography, while its hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder is one of the best examples of its type on any mirrorless camera, full-stop. All of this does come at a price, but if you can justify the expense, it’s worth it.
Read our full Fujifilm X100VI review
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Features
40MP sensor backed up by Fuji’s film simulations, 6.2k video, and IBIS all improve on the previous model
5 / 5
Build & handling
Gorgeous and well constructed retro inspired body with an incredible hybrid viewfinder
5 / 5
Performance
Excellent photo performance with photos from the 40MP sensor and fixed lens looking stunning
5 / 5
Value
The quality is top notch, but you will have to pay top dollar which might be too much for some
4 / 4
Best for stealth
(Image credit: Digital Camera World)
Best for stealth
Specifications
Sensor: 24MP APS-C CMOS
Lens: 40mm (equivalent) f/2.8
Burst rate: 4fps
AF points: 9
LCD: 3-inch, 1.037M-dot fixed touchscreen
Viewfinder: Optical (optional)
Dimensions: 109 x 62 x 33 mm
Weight: 257g (including battery)
Reasons to buy
+
Small to hold
+
Big APS-C sensor
Reasons to avoid
–
Fixed screen
–
Viewfinder costs extra
Buy it if:
✅ You love 40mm focal length: Niche for some, but loved by many, it captures what the eye perceives ✅ You want a big sensor in a small package: Though niche for some, it’s beloved by many for its ability to capture exactly what the eye sees.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You want a viewfinder: If you want an eye-level viewfinder, you’ll need to purchase it separately. ❌ You’re on a budget: Given its features and the hype, it carries a hefty price tag.
Like four-hour board games and The Rocky Horror Picture Show, the Ricoh GR cameras have acquired something of a cult following. Their fans will extol, to anyone who’ll listen, the virtues of their slim build and large sensor, a feature combination that makes the most recent model, the GR IIIx, a great option for street photography, so much so that it even comes in a dedicated “street edition” with a pop-on viewfinder and natty yellow stripe included.
With impressive features like three-axis image stabilization, a high maximum ISO of 102,400, and a lean start-up time of just 0.8sec, the GR III has the imaging cred to back up its looks.
Also consider the Ricoh has come out with an alternative version of the GR IIIx, the Ricoh GR III. It’s basically the same camera, but with one crucial difference – it swaps the 40mm equivalent lens for a 28mm equivalent. Neither of these is necessarily better for street photography; it’s just about personal preference. If you like the sound of the wide perspective then the Ricoh GR III is for you, but think you might prefer a closer, tighter perspective, consider the Ricoh GR IIIx!
Read our full Ricoh GR III review for more details
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GR IIIx
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Notes
Score
Features
featuring a niche 40mm focal length with 24MP APS-C sensor in a pocketable size makes this great for street
5 / 5
Build & handling
Due to its tiny size it can be difficult to hold at times, but thanks to its all heavy-duty plastic construction its lightweight
4.5 / 5
Performance
producing excellent images and often being unseen while doing makes this a fan-favourite
5 / 5
Value
Its price is a niche as the camera, but fair fro those looking for a small powerhouse
4 / 5
Best compact camera
(Image credit: Gareth Bevan / Digital Camera World)
Best compact camera
Specifications
Type: Compact
Sensor size: Full frame
Megapixels: 60MP
Lens: Fixed 28mm, f/1.7
LCD: 3in flip touchscreen
Viewfinder: EVF
Continuous shooting: 15fps
Max video resolution: 8K30p, 4K60p, 1080FHD120p
Reasons to buy
+
Excellent 60MP image quality
+
8K video
+
Subject recognition and tracking
+
Easy to use
Reasons to avoid
–
Animal tracking autofocus is unreliable
–
Uncomfortable to hold for long periods without optional grip
–
Pricey
Buy it if:
✅ You love 28mm focal length: The Q3 features the only f/1.7 aperture lens in the Leica lineup, but it’s fixed to the Q-series body, so you’ll need to be fond of shooting at 28mm.
✅ You want to follow the trend: Due to a huge media surge, the Leica Q3 has become “on-trend”—a positive development.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You want to shoot other focal lengths: With its fixed 28mm lens, which cannot be changed, cropping is the only option.
❌ You want an optical viewfinder: The Q3 includes a high-resolution EVF but lacks the optical viewfinder found in Leica M models.
The Leica Q3’s 60MP sensor never failed to impress me, producing breathtaking images that capture every detail. I particularly enjoyed the digital crop feature, which adds a fun element of experimentation to the fixed 28mm f/1.7 lens.
Each shot I took showcased Leica’s remarkable processing, with colors that pop with exceptional dynamic range, making it the perfect compact camera for Street photography. The autofocus is quick and precise, especially when it comes to subject focusing, thanks to its efficient human and eye detection capabilities.
However, I’ve found that the animal detection feature leaves much to be desired. It often misidentifies inanimate objects rather than living creatures however, I suspect this could be improved with firmware updates. In terms of video, the Leica Q3 delivers high-quality 8K footage in various professional codecs, but I’ve noticed that image stabilization struggles with handheld shake.
Despite these drawbacks, the Leica Q3 remains a standout camera for everyday use, and it easily earns its reputation as one of the best compact cameras for street photography available today. Unfortunately, being a Leica, its lofty price tag makes it inaccessible to many photographers, which is a disappointment.
Read our full Leica Q3 review for more details
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Leica Q3
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Notes
Score
Features
60-megapixels 8K video, Subject recognition and tracking
5 / 5
Build & handling
Built like a tank, amazing 28mm f/1.7 lens, quick AF to manual focus
4.5 / 5
Performance
Amazing image quality, snappy autofocus, user friendly operation.
5 / 5
Value
This is a luxury, handmade camera with the performance to match
4 / 5
Most versatile camera
(Image credit: Gareth Bevan / Digital Camera World)
Most versatile camera
Specifications
Type: Mirrorless
Sensor: X-Trans IV (APS-C)
Megapixels: 26.1MP
Lens mount: Fujifilm X
Screen: 3-inch 1.84 million dot vari-angle LCD touchscreen
Viewfinder: 2.36 million dot
Max continuous shooting speed: up to 30fps (1.25x crop) or 20fps (no crop)
Max video resolution: Up to 6K30P 4:2:2 10-bit internal, 4K60P, 1080HD240P
Reasons to buy
+
Small and compact size
+
6K30P video in 4:2:2 10-bit
+
Subject recognition and tracking autofocus
+
Bigger battery
+
Vari-angle screen for vlogging
Reasons to avoid
–
Vlog mode isn’t well explained
–
Price might be too much for some
Buy it if:
✅ You shoot a lot of video: The Fujifilm X-S20 excels in street photography with its compact, lightweight design and excellent image quality. Its versatile features make it easy to capture dynamic scenes on the go. ✅ You want a versatile hybrid camera: The X-S20 isn’t just for video; it also delivers outstanding stills. With access to Fuji’s full X-Mount lens range, it’s versatile enough for everything from street scenes to landscapes.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You want big resolution: One drawback of the X-S20 is its 24MP sensor, which falls short of the 40MP sensors in the X-T5 and X-H2. If maximum resolution is crucial, those models may be better options, though they come at a significantly higher price. ❌ You prefer retro styling: No retro camera in Fujifilm’s lineup matches the X-S20’s feature set. The X-T5 comes close but is larger and pricier, while the older X-T30 II can’t compete with the X-S20’s modern capabilities.
In my review, I found that the Fujifilm X-S20 is the most versatile camera for most users. Its straightforward controls and excellent fully automatic modes make capturing great shots a breeze.
Plus, its small and compact size makes it easy to carry around wherever you go. Despite its size, the X-S20 packs a punch with its powerful processor capable of 6K video and subject recognition tracking, making it a great choice for photo enthusiasts, content creators, and those who love to shoot street photography too, like me.
While the price is a little higher than the previous version, I believe it’s worth it considering the capabilities of this camera. It offers more than enough features to satisfy most users’ needs, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about photography or videography.
Read our full Fujifilm X-S20 review to find out more
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Features
6K open-gate video and the latest subject detection
5 / 5
Design
Solid build quality although does miss out of weather sealing
5 / 5
Performance
Subject detect autofocus is pinpoint and video quality is excellent
5 / 5
Value
Arguably the best value APS-C cameras right now
5 / 5
Best for reach
(Image credit: Rod Lawton/Digital Camera World)
Best for reach
Specifications
Sensor: 20.1MP 1-in Exmor RS CMOS
Lens: 24-200mm (equivalent) f/2.8-4.5
Burst rate: 20fps (90fps short burst mode)
AF points: 357-point phase AF, 425-point contrast AF
LCD: 3-inch tilting touchscreen, 921k dots
Viewfinder: Pop-up EVF, 2.36m dots
Dimensions: 101.6 x 58.1 x 42.8 mm
Weight: 302g (with battery and SD card)
Reasons to buy
+
Extremely high-speed shooting
+
With fast AF to match
Reasons to avoid
–
Small, cramped and fiddly
–
Pricey
Buy it if:
✅ You want an EVF: With its 2.36 million-dot EVF, you can confidently frame your shots and ensure excellent compositions.
✅ You want stills and video: With 20MP stills and 4K video, this camera delivers versatile performance in a single package—ideal for capturing dynamic street scenes and travel moments
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You’re on a budget: This camera is expensive, especially compared to standard point-and-shoot models, but its advanced features justify the cost. ❌ You want simple: The camera’s compact size makes the controls a bit tricky to navigate. While its portability is great, the small buttons and dials may take some getting used to, especially in fast-paced situations.
A camera doesn’t get seven iterations unless the idea was good, to begin with, and the Sony RX100 VII is the latest in a line of terrific tiny compacts. Pairing a 24-200mm equivalent Zeiss-engineered lens with an extremely sophisticated autofocus system and enviably fast burst shooting is a winner in anyone’s book, and all this makes it right up the alley of any street photographer.
All this tech doesn’t come cheap, however, and one could argue, as we did in our review, that the RX100 VII is a wee bit aggressively priced for a camera of its size (and sensor size).
The good news, though, is that if the asking price is too dear for you, the preceding RX100 models are still largely in production, so by all means have a look and see if one better suits you (our RX100 comparison guide will come in handy there).
Read our full Sony RX100 VII review for more details
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Sony RX100 VII
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Notes
Score
Features
With its compact size and offering 20MP stills and 4K video its perfect for travel
4 / 5
Build & handling
With a massive 24-200mm zoom in its compact size makes this great for taking on your travels and capturing all the action
5 / 5
Performance
With stunning 20MP stills and glorious 4K video footage, and that massive zoom – this is a compact powerhouse in your pocket
4.5 / 5
Value
It’s pricey for its specs, but when you factor in its size there is nothing else like it
4 / 5
Best monochrome camera
(Image credit: Gareth Bevan / Digital Camera World)
Best monochrome camera
Specifications
Type: Rangefinder
Sensor: Monochrome BSI CMOS sensor
Megapixels: 60
Screen: 3-inch fixed touchscreen, 1,036,800 dots
Max shooting speed: DNG: 15 shots, JPG: >100 shots
User level: Expert
Reasons to buy
+
Pristine B&W quality
+
Incredible in low light
Reasons to avoid
–
Incredibly expensive
–
Immovable rear screen
Buy it if:
✅ You want a black-and-white-only camera: It delivers stunning black-and-white images, offering some of the best digital black-and-white photography available.
✅ You want the stealth look: With its street-smart design, the red dot is removed, and the camera comes in only one color: black—making it the stealthiest option for street photography.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You want to shoot color: Equipped with a unique sensor that lacks a Bayer filter, this camera exclusively shoots in black and white—no color photos are possible.
❌ You want the full Leica look: While the M11 Monochrom looks striking, the absence of the iconic red dot means it doesn’t fully capture the classic Leica vibe.
The Leica M11 Monochrom is a camera that speaks directly to my niche interests, and maybe yours too. As a black-and-white, manual focus-only rangefinder camera, it stands apart from the mainstream offerings. Sure, it can’t shoot video, and the price tag of $9000 (£8,300) is hefty, but these characteristics are what make it so special.
Far from being shortcomings, these features encouraged me to approach my photography with a more deliberate mindset. Every shot becomes a thoughtful process, reminiscent of the glory days of film photography. Using the M11 Monochrom has been one of the most enjoyable photography experiences I’ve had in a while.
I understand that this camera isn’t for everyone. It’s tailored for a specific audience, and Leica knows exactly how to cater to their needs. For those of us who appreciate its unique qualities and Black-and-white only images, there’s good news: it’s possibly the best version of this camera to date.
Read our full Leica M11 Monochrom review for more details
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Leica M11 Monochrom
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Notes
Score
Features
Black and white only images, 60MP stills, no video features
4 / 5
Build & handling
Built to the Leica reputation this is a solid camera that lives up to the Leica name
5 / 5
Performance
Simply the best low-light performance from any Leica
5 / 5
Value
Rather expensive for a very niche camera
4 / 5
Best for film simulations
Fujifilm X-T5 (Image credit: Alistair Campbell)
Best for film simulations
Specifications
Type: Mirrorless
Sensor: APS-C X-Trans 5 HR BSI
Megapixels: 40
Lens mount: Fujifilm X
Viewfinder: 3.69M-dot OLED EVF, 100fps refresh
Memory card: 2 x SD UHS-II
LCD: 3-inch tilting touchscreen
Max continuous shooting speed: 20fps
Max video resolution: 6.2K/30P
User level: Expert/professional
Reasons to buy
+
40MP still images
+
15/20fps continuous shooting
+
Lighter than X-T4
Reasons to avoid
–
Manual dials not for everyone
–
X-H2S is better for speed
–
No 8k video
Buy it if:
✅ You love retro-styled cameras: The Fujifilm X-T5 is a beautiful camera that combines the charm of vintage film cameras with the latest digital technology, making it perfect for enthusiasts of both. ✅ You want a do-it-all camera: The X-T5 excels not only in capturing stunning stills but also in shooting impressive image-stabilized 6K video, making it one of the most attractive hybrid cameras available.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You don’t like the idea of manual dials: The X-T5 offers automatic modes, but for manual photography, you’ll need to use the dials, which can be slower compared to other methods. ❌ You want a bigger sensor: The 40MP sensor of the X-T5 provides high resolution, but if you seek the depth of field and light-gathering of full-frame or medium-format sensors, the X-series may not be suitable.
The Fujifilm X-T5 marks the latest step in Fujifilm’s X-T series, and for me, it’s more of an evolution than a revolution. As someone deeply passionate about street photography, especially capturing simulations of my favorite films too, this camera feels like a classic SLR-style companion with a modern twist.
I love the traditional dials on the top of the camera; they make changing ISO and shutter speed settings a breeze, giving me that tactile connection to my craft. The X-T5 builds upon the beloved X-T4 with an impressive 40.2MP sensor and 10-bit 4:2:2 video at 6.2K/30P, all while maintaining its lightweight design.
One of the standout features for me is the 3-way tilting touchscreen, which adds flexibility to image composition. In terms of its aesthetics, feel, and handling, the X-T5 stands out from the crowd, offering a unique shooting experience compared to other cameras like the Fujifilm X-H2.
If you’re torn between the X-T5 and the X-H2, I’d recommend checking out our comparison article, “Fujifilm X-T5 vs X-H2,” to see which one aligns better with your needs and preferences.
For more see our full Fujifilm X-T5 review.
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Features
High-resoltion, IBIS, 6K video, what more could you want?
5 / 5
Design
Beautiful styling, but the manual dials aren’t for everyone
4 / 4
Performance
Fantastic image quality and exceptional subject detect autofocus
5 / 5
Value
Excellent value for the design and features on offer
5 / 5
How to choose the best camera for street photography
When it comes to street photography, I’ve learned that the best mirrorless cameras and the best compact cameras may boast various features, but specific requirements truly make a camera shine in this genre.
For me, a good street photography camera must be small and discreet. It’s essential to blend into the surroundings, observing scenes without drawing unnecessary attention. Big bodies and bulky lenses tend to stand out, which is not ideal.
Speed is another crucial factor. Snappy autofocus and a reliable burst mode ensure I capture the decisive moment without delay. It’s reassuring to know that if I miss a shot, it won’t be due to the camera’s limitations.
When it comes to controls, intuitiveness is key. I prefer well-laid-out and tactile controls that allow me to adjust settings quickly without diving into menus. After all, time is of the essence during a street shoot.
Lastly, weight matters. Carrying the camera around my neck or on my shoulder for extended periods requires it to be lightweight. The ideal street camera shouldn’t weigh me down as I navigate through the urban landscape, capturing fleeting moments of life.
How we test camera
In evaluating what cameras made the best ones for street photography, we conduct thorough assessments both in real-world shooting situations and under meticulously controlled lab conditions. Our lab examinations focus on key performance metrics including resolution, dynamic range, and signal-to-noise ratio.
Resolution is gauged using ISO resolution charts, while dynamic range assessments are facilitated through DxO Analyzer test equipment. Additionally, we utilize DxO Analyzer for comprehensive noise analysis across the camera’s ISO range.
As for compact cameras, our evaluations are primarily based on real-world results and ergonomic handling, serving as the foundation for our informative guides.
