The Best Camera and Gear for Chasing Storms in 2024
Want to take amazing videos and pictures of powerful storms?
Storm chasing requires a camera that can handle tough weather while giving you great 4K video and high-quality still photos.
So here are the top camera and lens choices for storm chasers in 2024.
Let’s go!
Important Things to Look for in Storm-Chasing Cameras
When picking a camera for chasing storms, there are several key factors:
Weather Protection: Strong weather sealing is a must to keep your gear safe from rain, dust, and moisture during intense storms.
4K Video: Being able to record high-quality 4K video without the camera overheating is key for capturing the drama of severe weather.
Fast Continuous Shooting: To freeze the action of lightning strikes and fast-moving clouds, you need a camera that can shoot in burst i.e. take a lot of pictures per second.
Zoom Lens: A lens that can zoom in far (300mm or more).
This will let you keep a safe distance while still getting close-up shots of the storm.
Top Camera Picks for Chasing Storms
1. Fujifilm X-T3
The Fujifilm X-T3 is a tough, weather-sealed camera that checks all the boxes for storm chasers.
It comes with a high-quality sensor and processor that takes great pictures and 4K video.
The only downside is it doesn't have a flip screen.
But its fast continuous shooting and strong weather sealing make it an excellent choice for capturing fast storms.
2. Panasonic GH5
The Panasonic GH5 is a video powerhouse perfect for storm chasing.
Its weather sealing allows 4K video recording without overheating issues.
Plus, its fast continuous shooting and advanced autofocus help capture lightning and moving clouds.
3. Sony Alpha a7 III
For a full-frame sensor camera, the Sony Alpha a7 III is the perfect option.
With excellent low-light performance, weather sealing, and 4K video, it takes amazing shots in tough storm conditions.
The flip screen is handy for vlogging or unique angles.
However, it is on the pricier side.
Top Lenses for Storm Chasing
To get close-ups of distant storms, you need a lens that can zoom in really far.
Here are two great picks:
1. Tamron 70-300mm for Sony
The Tamron 70-300 pairs perfectly with Sony full-frame cameras like the Alpha a7 III.
Its 300mm zoom lets you keep your distance while zooming in on storm details.
And its weather sealing ensures it works reliably in tough conditions.
2. Panasonic 100-300mm
Made for Panasonic cameras like the GH5, this 100-300mm weather-sealed lens has a long zoom range, ideal for capturing far-away storms while protecting your gear.
Staying Within Budget
Storm-chasing gear can be expensive.
But you can find quality options for a reasonable price.
If your budget is under $2,000 for both camera and lens, you may need to prioritize certain features or look at used gear.
And That’s It
Chasing storms requires a camera and lens that are resistant enough to nature’s forces while delivering epic results.
No matter your choice—the Fujifilm X-T3, the video-focused Panasonic GH5, or the full-frame Sony Alpha a7 III paired with a super-zoom lens—you'll be well equipped to capture the raw power and beauty of these severe storms.
I hope that helps,
Let me know if you have any questions.
-Hakan.
