You’ve just booked your trip, and next on the to-do list is getting a new standalone camera that will provide amazing high-quality images. What types are there and how do you pick the one that works best for you? Read on to find out!

1. Compact cameras: Pocketable, discreet, convenient

1. Compact camera

Best for: Vloggers, families, those who want a pocket-friendly dedicated camera

If you prefer your dedicated camera to be as small and fuss-free as possible, consider a compact camera. They have an integrated zoom lens that, on most models, retracts fully into the body for easy storage! The cameras in Canon’s PowerShot G series will fit easily into a handbag while leaving room for other essentials.

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We recommend: PowerShot G7 X Mark III

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Compact cameras offer optical zoom, which keeps image quality consistently good whether you are taking wide-angle landscapes, street photos at a normal focal length, or zoomed-in close-up portraits. As they use a 1-inch-type image sensor or larger and sensor size matters, you can also enjoy better details and dynamic range than the typical smartphone.

PowerShot G5 X Mark II @ 18mm (approx. 48.6mm full-frame equivalent), f/4, 1/2000 sec, ISO 125

Besides high-quality images, the PowerShot G7 X III also promises rich video functionality, with a microphone socket and cropless 4K 30p recording. Like other recent Canon cameras, you can wirelessly transfer photos and videos to your smartphone via the Camera Connect app.

Know this: Features you won't find on your smartphone

Sample Images and Videos from PowerShot G7 X Mark III

 

Shoot stunning, high-definition 4K timelapses of the night sky—just one of the possibilities available with the PowerShot G7 X Mark III.

 

 

2. APS-C mirrorless cameras: Best balance

2. APS-C mirrorless cameras

Ideal for: New hobbyists, hybrid shooters, enthusiasts who want to carry more gear with less weight

APS-C cameras provide a comfortable balance between high image quality, interchangeable lens compatibility, and travelling light. Their larger image sensor achieves better dynamic range and detail than the average smartphone or compact camera. They also can do many things that full-frame cameras can do, but are smaller, lighter, and generally more affordable. Small APS-C cameras like the EOS R10 are easy to stabilise during handheld vlogging!

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We recommend: EOS R10

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Use the Panorama Shot mode on your APS-C EOS R camera to easily capture high-resolution panoramas of sprawling scenes.

EOS R10 + RF-S18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM @ f/3.2, 1/30 sec, ISO 4000/ Panorama Shot mode
Original image: 24512 x 4208 px

At only approximately 429g, this lightweight 24.2-megapixel APS-C mirrorless camera is equipped with many features similar to those found on advanced EOS R cameras. It does almost everything the PowerShot G7 X Mark III does—and better.

Tips for Maximising Your APS-C Camera Travel Experience

 

Try capturing moments, action, and moving subjects

Use a telephoto lens

Try different lenses

 

Sample Images from EOS R10

 

 

3. Full-frame mirrorless camera: For the best image quality and versatility

3. Full-frame mirrorless camera

Ideal for: Those who prioritise image quality and versatility; landscape photography lovers

Once you’ve experienced the image quality of a full-frame camera, it can be hard to make do with anything less. If subtle tonal transitions, dynamic range, intricate details, and flexibility in low light are very important to you, and/or you are shooting to print or build a professional portfolio, you would probably find a full-frame camera a worthy investment. 

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We recommend: EOS R8

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Weighing barely more than the EOS R10 at around 461g (body only), the EOS R8 is currently Canon’s lightest full-frame mirrorless camera. It promises the best of both worlds: full-frame versatility and portability! While it has no built-in flash, it shares many similar functions with the EOS R10 with better core performance and video functions.

 

Tips for Taking Full Advantage of Your Full-Frame Camera

 

Use an ultra-wide-angle lens

Shoot in low light

Sample Images From EOS R8

 

 

Table: Comparing the camera types

Comparing camera types

	Compact	APS-C	Full-frame
Portability	★★★	★★	★
Interchangeable lenses	✕	✓	✓
Low-light performance	★	★★	★★★
Dynamic range	★	★★	★★★

 

Bonus: Print out your travel memories

Bonus: Print out your travel memories

Don’t let your favourite travel photos languish in your storage drive or social media. Why not print them out so that you can enjoy them over and over again in real life? They make great decorations and souvenirs too. Here are two compact photo printers to check out.

 

1. SELPHY SQUARE QX10

Ideal for: Printing on the go

Only around the size of the postcard, the SELPHY SQUARE QX10 fits easily into a shoulder bag so you can even bring it on your trip with you for printing on the go! It prints universally flattering 1:1 square format photos onto special 2-in-1 paper—just peel off the backing to stick the photo into your travel scrapbook! 

 

2. SELPHY CP1500

Ideal for: Creative projects

For slightly larger, higher-quality prints and more creative output options, try the SELPHY CP1500 Compact Photo Printer. Images can be sent wirelessly from a smartphone, Canon camera, or computer, or downloaded to the printer from the cloud. Unlimited smartphones can be connected, so how about inviting your travel buddies over for a printing party?

 

The SELPHY Layout app lets you get creative with your prints.

 

Beautiful prints that last up to 100 years

Whichever printer you choose, both use dye sublimation thermal printing technology, which achieves smooth colour tones and rich gradations. Both also apply a special lamination that protects them from light, water, oil, gas, and fingerprints, the prints can last for up to 100 years when stored in an album. Someday, if current storage media goes the way of CDs and floppy disks, you (and your grandchildren) will still be able to access those memories.

	CP1500	QX10
Portability	★	★★
Smartphone printing	✓	✓
Paper type	Label	Standard/ label
Protective lamination	✓	✓
Dye sublimation printing	✓	✓
Pattern overlays	✓	✓

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