The Best Cameras For Every Type of Photographer

For aspiring pros. Canon’s first full–frame mirrorless camera ($3,600) has a 30–megapixel sensor that produces the same crisp photos as larger flagship DSLRs.

For spontaneous snappers. The 1970s instant camera (US$140, Polaroid) has received a 21st–century upgrade. Try out the light painting mode and draw lines or letters over evening shots using a smartphone flashlight.

For adventurers. Whether you're paddling whitewater rapids or shredding late–season powder, this waterproof cam ($530, GoPro) records smooth footage thanks to image–stabilization technology.

For urban explorers. A retro design contrasts with this compact model’s ($1,800, Fujifilm) cutting–edge technology: The 26.1–megapixel sensor and wide–angle lens render images with the character of film photography.

For smartphone shooters. Transform your smartphone pics with attachable lenses. Screw the wide–angle version (US$120, Moment) to the phone case to capture that desert vista, or home in on a prickly pear cactus with the tele lens (US$120, Moment).