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Best camera for an amature photographer


best compact camera for amature photographer

Even if you aren’t a “professional” photographer, you still deserve to have the best camera for your passion of photography.

This is a guide covering the best cameras for aspiring and amateur photographers.

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Trying to learn photography requires a good camera that you can work with.

It is common for novice photographers to ask: what is the best camera to buy for a beginner photographer?

Or perhaps, what is the best camera for amateur photography?

What makes a good amateur camera?

Is it something that has all the intimidating features?

Or is it something that simply allows you to control the aperture, ISO, and shutter speed without relying on its ability to set everything up for you?

To help guide novice photographers, we’ve come up with a list of some of the best cameras for amateur photographers.

12 Best Cameras for Amateur Photographers

What is the Best Camera for Amateur Photographers?

1. Canon EOS Rebel T7

Key Features:

  • 3.0″ 920k-Dot LCD Monitor
  • 9-Point AF with Center Cross-Type Point
  • 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
  • Built-In Wi-Fi with NFC
  • DIGIC 4+ Image Processor
  • Full HD 1080/30p Video Recording
  • ISO 100-6400, Up to 3 fps Shooting
  • Scene Intelligent Auto Mode

The Canon Rebel T7 has 24MP, built-in WiFi, not to mention a 9-point AF system, these are things that any newbie can take advantage of.

Also, you get to enjoy 95% viewing coverage with its viewfinder. Its ISO sensitivity however is not exactly the best at ISO 100 to 6400.

However, if you are a newbie, then this might do the trick.

Check out the best lenses for the Canon Rebel T7.

Canon Rebel T7 – Source

Pros

  • 24MP sensor
  • Built-in WiFi
  • With a 9-point AF system

Cons

  • Low ISO range

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2. Canon A-1

Key Features:

  • Classic manual focus 35mm film SLR camera
  • ISO ranging from 6-12,800
  • Center-weighted light metering
  • Shutter speed range 2 seconds to 1/1000
  • Full manual controls
  • Dedicated hot shoe
  • Flash sync at 1/60
  • Removable back
  • Electronic self-timer with 2 second and 10 second options
  • Has eyepiece shutter

For any aspiring photographer, what better way to learn photography than to go back to using film.

It teaches you how to compose images given the limited shots that you have.

Plus, you can also understand the basics such as sunny 16 and the rule of thirds in photography.

The Canon A1 is the very first to provide you with an electronic metering system to tell you if you have the right exposure for your shot.

It is also known for its robust design and classic look.

Canon A-1 image – Copyright “Xray40000”

Pros

  • Robust design
  • Allows you to learn the basics
  • With an electronic light meter

Cons

  • You will need to develop the photos to see the results

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3. Nikon D3500

Key Features:

  • 24.2MP DX-Format CMOS Sensor
  • Multi-CAM 1000 11-Point AF System
  • 3.0″ 921k-Dot LCD Monitor
  • Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 60 fps
  • Native ISO 100-25600; 5 fps Shooting
  • Bluetooth Connectivity

As for the best value camera for the amateur photographers, we picked the Nikon D3500.

This is a favorite by many photography students and hobbyists.

With its easy to use configuration and great image quality, it is no surprise why many considered it as their first DSLR.

It offers a 24MP sensor and an ISO range of ISO 100 to 25600. It also comes with a maximum of 5fps which is quite decent for an entry-level camera.

And lastly, it can connect wirelessly via Bluetooth.

The only downside will have to be the fixed LCD which is frustrating when it comes to shooting at an awkward angle.

Nikon D3500 – Source

Pros

  • Great quality image
  • Easy to use
  • 5fps
  • Bluetooth connectivity

Cons

  • Fixed LCD

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4. Panasonic LUMIX GX85

Key Features:

  • 16MP Live MOS Sensor
  • 2.76m-Dot 0.7x Electronic Viewfinder
  • ISO 25600 and 10 fps Shooting with AF-S
  • UHD 4K Video Recording at 30/24 fps
  • 5-Axis Image Stabilization, Dual I.S.
  • Built-In Wi-Fi Connectivity

If you are still asking: what is the best camera to buy for a beginner photographer, a strong candidate would have to be the Lumix GX85 Digital Camera.

This camera shares some of the core features of the GX8 including the 49-point AF system.

However, it doesn’t have the 20MP sensor but instead has a 16MP sensor which is a good option for beginners.

It has a tilting EVF, a weather-sealed design, not to mention an ability to shoot in 4K.

For beginners who don’t want to be carrying a large full-frame camera, the Lumix GX85 is a great choice.

It even has a 5 axis dual image stabilization that minimizes the blurred shots.

Panasonic LUMIX GX85 image – Copyright “RG in TLV”

Pros

  • Compact design
  • Weather-sealed
  • Fast and accurate autofocus
  • With image stabilization

Cons

  • Doesn’t have the 20MP sensor of the GX8

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5. Panasonic Lumix FZ80

Key Features:

  • 18.1MP 1/2.3″ MOS Sensor
  • Built-In Wi-Fi Connectivity
  • 4K UHD Video Recording at 30 fps
  • ISO 6400, 10 fps Shooting, 4K Photo Mode
  • Electronic Viewfinder

The Panasonic Lumix FZ80 is a unique addition to our list of best cameras for amateur photographers. For one, it doesn’t allow users to change lenses.

Instead, you are dealing with a zoom lens.

Though there are limitations to what it can offer, it allows beginners to learn how to compose their photos without worrying if the shot is over or underexposed.

It has an 18.1MP sensor combined with a 20-1200mm Lumix DC Vario Lens. You can also transfer your photos wirelessly.

Panasonic Lumix FZ80 image – Copyright “Nithi Anand”

Pros

  • 18MP sensor
  • 4K capability
  • Fast and accurate autofocus
  • Allows you to shoot without worrying if it is under or overexposed

Cons

  • You can’t change lenses

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6. Nikon D5600

Key Features:

  • 24.2MP DX-Format CMOS Sensor
  • ISO 100-25600 and 5 fps Shooting
  • Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 60 fps
  • Multi-CAM 4800DX 39-Point AF Sensor
  • Time-Lapse Movie Recording
  • Bluetooth and Wi-Fi with NFC

The D5600 is another Nikon camera on our list of best cameras for amateur photographers.

It is a good choice for those who are trying to learn how to shoot photographs whether in a studio or in an outdoor setting.

But it isn’t exactly a novice photographer’s camera because it can also be used for sports photography with its 5 fps in continuous shooting mode.

It comes with a 24-megapixel sensor and an ISO sensitivity from 100 to 25600.

And when it comes to shooting from a weird angle, you can easily flip the screen to see the subject and not guess on your composition.

You can also shoot around 970 shots per charge which is a good thing especially when you need to review your shots to improve your skills.

The biggest downside to the D5600 is that transferring photos to a mobile device takes a lot of clicks.

Also, check out the best lenses for the Nikon D5600.

Nikon D5600 image – Copyright “G Yancy”

Pros

  • 5 fps
  • Sensitive ISO
  • 970 shots per charge
  • Comes with a flappable screen

Cons

  • Can be more user friendly when it comes to transferring files

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7. Canon EOS T100/4000D

Key Features:

  • Powerful 18 Megapixel sensor
  • Guided live view with creative auto mode
  • 3.0 frames per second
  • Precise auto focus

Our list of best cameras for amateur photographers won’t be complete without the EOS T100 otherwise known as the 4000D.

Though it only comes with an 18MP sensor and its ISO range from ISO 100 to 6400 might be a bit lacking for low light situations, it is still a favorite among newbies.

You can also transfer files wirelessly via WiFi plus it has a decent 9 point AF system.

Canon EOS T100 – Source

Pros

  • Can transfer files via WiFi
  • Good value
  • Great photo quality despite the limited 18MP sensor

Cons

  • Can perform better in low light

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8. Nikon FG

If you plan on becoming a pro photographer and you want to get acquainted with the Nikon systems, might as well start with the Nikon FG film camera.

It is something that many consider as one of the best cameras for amateur photographers despite having a plastic body.

What makes it a good introduction to photography?

Just like any film camera, it allows you to shoot conservatively and use your eyes to compose the photos.

It shoots from 1 second to 1/1000th of a second plus you get a bulb mode for long exposures.

However, it shines the most with its auto modes that calculate the exposure that allows users to know if they have the right exposure for their shot.

Nikon FG image – Copyright “Bill So”

Pros

  • Allows you to learn how to compose properly
  • Can shoot in a wide variety of shutter speeds
  • With a decent light meter

Cons

  • Plastic body

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9. Olympus OM-10

Key Features:

  • 20.3MP Live MOS Micro Four Thirds Sensor
  • UHD 4K30p Video Recording
  • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity
  • 5-Axis Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization
  • 8.7 fps Shooting, ISO 200-25600

Made in 1979, this film camera is one of the most highly suggested picks for those who are serious about building their skills from the ground up.

It is one of the best cameras for amateur photographers for many reasons.

It has the robust construction of the old 1970s SLR.

It has a decent range of shutter speed from 1/25th to 1/1600th of a second.

However, you will need to plug an adaptor to fire away at manual.

It also comes with a bulb selection plus the ability to switch to auto.

The viewfinder is remarkable given its size that allows you to compose well.

Olympus OM-10 image – Copyright “Witold Kieńć”

Pros

  • Allows you to compose well
  • Rugged construction
  • Comes with a great auto feature

Cons

  • You need an adapter to use the manual mode

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10. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III

Key Features:

  • 16.1MP Four Thirds Live MOS Sensor
  • Up to 8.6 fps Shooting and ISO 25600
  • Micro Four Thirds System
  • 3.0″ 1.04m-Dot Tilting Touchscreen LCD
  • UHD 4K30 Recording
  • Built-In Wi-Fi

The Olympus OMD EM10 Mark III is one of the most popular micro four-thirds cameras out there.

It is also common to see the pros to consider it as one of the best cameras for amateur photographers.

It comes with a lightweight body that allows users to have an easier time shooting.

It comes with a 16MP sensor plus easy to use dials that give users the chance to switch modes depending on what they want.

You even get a tilting screen that offers a live view.

The downside is that it doesn’t have a fast focus and can only shoot at around 4.8fps.

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III image – Copyright “Graeme Darbyshire”

Pros

  • Dials that make it easy to use
  • With tilting screen
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Doesn’t have a fast tracking focus

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11. Canon EOS M50

Key Features:

  • 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
  • UHD 4K and HD 720p120 Video Recording
  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF
  • Built-In Wi-Fi with NFC
  • DIGIC 8 Image Processor
  • Bluetooth

Though it is primarily popular as a vlogging camera, there is no denying that many are using it as their entry-level camera for the world of photography.

Side note, here is a list of the best vlogging cameras.

The Canon EOS M50 is a lightweight and mirrorless model from Canon that comes with interesting features.

It uses a 24MP sensor combined with Dual Pixel CMOS AF for accurate autofocus.

It also has high ISO making it suitable for low light situations.

And on top of that, you even get a vari-angle LCD helping you with composition.

However, it is a bit harder to use than the full-frame versions from Canon.

Check out the best lenses for the Canon M50.

Canon EOS M50 image – Copyright “Ivan Radic”

Pros

  • High ISO
  • Powerful sensor
  • Lightweight
  • Comes with a vari-angle LCD
  • Good AF

Cons

  • Harder to use than the DSLRs

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12. Canon EOS M100

Key Features:

  • 24.2MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
  • Built-In Wi-Fi with NFC, Bluetooth
  • 3. 0″ 1.04m-Dot Tilting Touchscreen LCD
  • Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 60 fps
  • Creative Assist and Self Portrait Mode
  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF

Last on our list of best cameras for amateur photographers is the Canon EOS M100.

It is another mirrorless camera from Canon.

It comes with a 24MP sensor, Dual Pixel CMOS AF and not to mention the ability to connect to WiFi when you need to transfer your photos to your mobile device.

It also has an intuitive touchscreen.

However, just like the M50, users complain about how it is not exactly easy to use.

From the small body that makes it hard for some users to use to some of its functionality that’s missing such as a missing hot shoe for the flash.

Canon EOS M100 – Source

Pros

  • 24MP sensor
  • WiFi connection
  • Intuitive touchscreen

Cons

  • Smaller body

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FAQ

What is the difference between a professional and amateur photographer?

The difference between a professional and amateur photographer can be seen in many aspects, from the type of equipment they use to their level of passion.

What is a good camera for amateur photography?

The best camera we recommend for amateur photography is the Canon Rebel T7 which you can read more about in our guide!

Hope you enjoyed this guide on the best cameras for amateur photographers!

So what is the best camera for amateur photography?

The answer may differ depending on who you are going to ask. It is best if you can compare the options we’ve mentioned.

Weigh your options carefully and you will be able to get the right match for you.

I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

6 Top Cameras for 2020 Under $5,000

There has never been a better time to be a Photographer. It doesn’t matter if you’re a Pro, Pro/Enthusiast, Amature or just starting out, it is a very good time to be involved in the Photography world. From the top brands right on down to the lesser known and even Chinese knockoff products, there is so much out there for us to work with.

Sigma and Tamron now make Lenses that rival and, in some cases, surpass the optical quality of the big brands like Nikon and Canon.

But it all starts with the camera and boy do we have some fantastic camera bodies available to us today! Even the entry level consumer cameras are so advanced witch specs and features that just 6-7 years ago would have them placed right with the very best PRO bodies at the time.

This article will deal with 6 TOP GRADE professional level cameras that fall under the $5,000 (USD) limit. There are many professional cameras that cost a whole lot more than $5,000 but we wanted to make this list for the Pro/Advanced Enthusiast that may be looking for an upgrade to their current model.

There are cameras from Nikon (D5) and Canon (1Dx M ii) along with Hasselblad and Phase One, among others, that blow far past the $5,000 threshold so those were not included since they are specialty cameras for the pro who knows exactly what they need.

Important Factors

Before the list begins, I will point out some of the factors that led me to come up with these 6 bodies. To list ONLY Six was a really tough thing to do since there are so many worthy contenders.

A well rounded camera that can be used for landscapes, sports, low light, video and any other shooting condition is what I was after in this article. Lens selection as well as other third party accessories also plays into determining what is the best choice.


Sensor Size

Up until just a few short years ago, a crop sensor body meant suffering in low light conditions and having poor lens selection to choose from. While there still are many more choices in the lens lineups for full frame bodies, there are some systems that make ONLY crop sensor specific lenses and they are of top quality.

This list is in random order and in no way suggest that the list is in order of best to last or last to best. I will include my pick and why at the conclusion of this article. So here we go!

1 ) SONY A7RIII

The Sony A7RIII is Sony’s most recent high end, high resolution camera. It is a Full Frame mirrorless camera with stunning features and equally incredible performance. Taking the same sensor from the previous A7RII, this body is built around a 42 megapixel back side illuminated (BSI) sensor. The truly amazing part about this body is that it can shoot a whopping 10 fps at that high resolution mark. Not a small feat to accomplish.

The native ISO range is 100-32,000 with and extended range of 50-102,400.

The new Sony A7RIII has features and performance that are almost impossible to top!

They have created this unit with faster processing along with a better AF system and a huge plus; a bigger and better battery that was made to handle all of these features and demands of a mirrorless camera. There is 5 axis in body image stabilization that is rated at a full 5.5 stops.

This camera incorporates a tilting LCD display with touch control. A nice feature is that the view finder is disabled when the screen is tilted out. This will assure the sensor isn’t triggered and it won’t cause the screen to go dark.

The addition of an AF Joystick to help quickly choose an AF point is a sure plus and will make many Sony users very happy.

VIDEO

On the video side, the camera captures 4K Footage from the Super 35 cropped region oversampled from 5k capture. It can shoot 4k at 30fps and 1080p at 120fps. It can capture 8 bit 4:2:0 footage internally or can output 8 bit 4:2:2.

The body has two SD Slots – One is UHS-1 and the other UHS-2.

The A7RIII has certainly incorporated many of the technologies Sony has learned from creating their super high speed A9 body. With the large sensor, low noise and super dynamic range performace, the A7RIII is a camera that can create great landscapes, capture action, portraits and just about anything else you can throw at it.

With the ever expanding line of Sony G Master top quality pro glass, the Sony system looks more appetizing each day!

With Sony’s list of great “G” glass expanding constantly, Sony is poised to be at or near the top of the Professional Photography world for years to come. Many users have switched to Sony from manufacturers such as Canon and lots have used, with great success, the adapters from Metabones that allow use of their glass on the Sony body. Below are some key specs on this body:

  • 42.4 MP back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor with gapless on-chip lens design
  • New front-end LSI and updated BIONZ X processing-engine for maximum processing speed
  • Advanced Hybrid AF system with 399 focal-plan phase-detection AF points cover 68% of the image Plane and 425 contrast AF points covering 47% of the image area
  • 10 fps with continuous and accurate AF/AE in either mechanical or silent shudder mode
  • Dual SD media card Slots

At the time of this writing, the Sony A7RIII sells for $3,198.00 on Amazon.com.

The Sony A7RIII is available HERE!

2 ) Nikon D850

The Nikon D850 is the latest camera body from Nikon and it sports a whopping 45.7 BSI Imaging sensor. The camera, like the Sony above, is capable of high frame rate capture. It can capture 7fps or 9fps but to get the faster capture speed requires the use of the optional battery grip and Nikon D5 battery. The battery and the charger plus the grip will set you back several hundreds of dollars but you will gain 2 full fps which can mean everything with high speed action.

The Native ISO Range is 64-25,000 and expandable to 32-120,400.

With its impressive 45.7mp BSI Sensor and super accurate AF along with a host of other great features, the Nikon D850 is a HOMERUN for Nikon!

The same AF system on the flagship Nikon D5 is shared on the D850. This equates to 153 points, of which 99 are cross-type, and Nikon’s very effective 3D Tracking.

The Nikon D850 sports a dust and weather sealed body along with the great addition of illuminated buttons for those situations where lighting is not available. The LCD is a 3.2inch tilting display with touch controls. The view finder is touted as “Nikon’s Brightest” to date.

There is one XQD slot and 1 UHS II-compliant SD slot available.

In video mode the camera is capable of UHD 4K video capture at up to 30p from full sensor width.

It also captures 1080p at up to 120fps. You get 4:2:2 8-bit UHD uncompressed output while outputting to a card.

Nikon has had its fair share of financial woes as of late and it’s great to see them hit the market with such a full featured, rugged body that is very good at all that is was designed to do. Nikon has been using Sony sensors for quite some time now and for good reason; Sony has been dominating the worldwide image sensor market.

However, Nikon must have been paying attention as this new BSI 45.7 mp CMOS sensor is made in house by Nikon. The low noise performance and dynamic range are outstanding. The popular D810 was very good and Nikon has squeezed in a little more resolution and quality with this sensor. When you realize how great the D810 sensor was and still is, this is very exciting.

Taking a page from their popular D750, this Pro Level body now sports a tilting display. It is 2017 and any camera made today should have a tilting LCD screen as it allows for much more exacting compositions and also will keep you from getting on the ground in many situations.

With the addition of the legendary Nikon family of lenses, Nikon has hit a homerun with the D850.

There are two articles here on the ImprovePhotography Website all about the Nikon D850 for Landscapes and one for Concerts. Click HERE for the landscape review and HERE for the concert review!

With an almost endless array of lenses both Nikon and 3rd Party, choosing Nikon or Canon assures you that you'll have the lens you need!

Below are some important specs on the D850:

  • Nikon-designed back-side illuminated (BSI) full-frame image sensor with no optical low-pass filter
  • 45.7 megapixels of extraordinary resolution, outstanding dynamic range and virtually no risk of moiré
  • Up to 9 fps1 continuous shooting at full resolution with full AF performance
  • 8K2 and 4K time-lapse movies with new levels of sharpness and detail
  • Tilting touchscreen, Focus Shift shooting mode, outstanding battery performance and much more
  • 4K Ultra HD video recording, slow motion up to 120 FPS at 1080p

It must be noted that to get maximum benefit out of the new large 45. 7mp sensor, you'll need to use the latest, high resolution lenses to go with this body. Older lenses simply cannot resolve enough detail to really get the very most from this camera. Nikon's latest 70-200mm f2.8 VR III, for example, is a super sharp lens and is a great fit for this body and it should be at $2,700. Also, the large files will zap hard drive space much quicker than with a camera with a sensor not so packed with pixels! Just something to think about when deciding on the D850.

The D850 currently sells for $$3,296.95 on Amazon.com.

The NIKON D850 is available HERE!

3 ) Canon 5D M IV

The Canon 5D M IV is an outstanding Professional DSLR that is truly an all in one camera. It has a larger 30.4 megapixel sensor, up from the 22.3 megapixels it had in the previous M III version. The 5D Mark IV went on Sale in September on 2016 and has been a big hit for Canon and thousands of photographers around the globe.

One topic many photographers were curious about was what the sensor was going to be like. Canon makes arguably the finest line of lenses and camera bodies in the world. They aren't the huge company they are by chance! However, as sensor technology has improved greatly with companies like Sony hitting one homerun after the next when it comes to sensor tech, Canon has fallen behind in the dynamic range race and many 5D Mark III users were very interested in seeing what the new body would bring. ISO Invariant sensors are important today especially if the photographer shoots lots of landscape work or anything that has great dynamic range. Jim Harmer wrote an excellent article on this subject back before the 5D Mark IV was out on the market. Check that out HERE for more information on the topic. To make a long story short, YES, Canon did indeed improve the sensor performance and while not 100% ISO Invariant, it is a sensor extremely capable of getting an amazing amount of detail from the RAW files.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is an all around winner packing solid construction, professional features and the best lineup of lenses on the planet.

When you couple the newer sensor along with great weather sealing, super AF system and their new “DUAL PIXEL AF” technology, you have one of the very best cameras on the market today. Any current Canon owner with Canon lenses can purchace this body knowing they are getting a great camera that performs well at just about everything it does.

TILT SCREEN?

One feature that is missing that is quickly becoming more and more popular today is the very handy tilting screen. Once you shoot with one, it is darn near impossible to go back to not having one. Canon does, however, have a great wireless system via your phone built in. This allows full control of your camera remotely and you can also quicky download files to your phone and even star rate them on your hand held device. I've seen two demonstrations of this application and it is wonderfully integrated and quite useful. It would be nice, however, if Canon does indeed give its users a tilting screen on the next version of this super popular camera because fumbling with fewer things is always best.

The 5D Mark IV also includes 4K video with the ability to take stills from the video and these are files you could post to web with great clarity and even print as long as you're not going too large. Here is a sample file taken from the 4K grab – CLICK HERE!!

Below are a key list of features in this super versatile DSLR from Canon:

  • New 30.4MP CMOS full-frame sensor with Dual Pixel AF
  • DCI 4K 30/24p video using Motion JPEG + 4K Frame Grab
  • 61-point AF system with 41 cross-type sensors (center point sensitive to -3 EV)
  • Dual Pixel AF (sensitive to -4EV) for continuous Servo AF in stills (first for a full-frame Canon camera) and video
  • ISO 100-32000 (expandable to 102400)
  • 7 fps continuous shooting
  • Dual Pixel Raw (image microadjustment, bokeh shift, ghosting reduction)
  • 150,000-pixel RGB+IR metering sensor
  • 1.62M-dot 3.2″ full-time touchscreen
  • Wi-Fi w/ NFC + GPS
  • Built-in bulb timer interval timers
  • Improved weather-sealing

Canon cameras are known for having a menu system than is much easier to work with than either Nikon and certainly Sony.   Their users love the user experience and that means a lot when a camera system is being decided upon. Anyone contemplating a camera such as the 5D Mark IV is most likely already invested in Canon lenses and that makes the choice a whole lot more simple. Canon is also very well regarded for having extremely well made, weather sealed and tough as nails bodies and lenses. In their lens lineup, you have a seemingly endless selection of lenses to choose from. Their L series lenses are of the highest quality and performance. Even when it comes to specialty lenses such as Tilt Shift lenses, they have SEVEN different lenses in the T/S variety since they just release a few more new ones. There is a reason Canon is the very best Camera Brand on the planet – outselling all others!

A dizzying number of Canon lenses are available for the E mount systems. Third Party lenses and more are also available for the number one camera brand on the planet!

The Canon 5D Mark IV is a really great all around camera. And I mean great. It is a GREAT landscape body. A GREAT portrait and stuido camera. A very capable event and action camera and certainly very popular with professional wedding photographers around the world! If I were a Canon shooter, this would certainly be my very first choice among any of the cameras listed here.

This Camera Body currently can be ordered from Amazon.com for $3,199.00.

You can have the 5D Mark IV by clicking HERE!

4 ) Pentax K-1

The Pentax K-1 is truly a camera that anyone involved with  the photography industry should be well aware of. It has a super rugged and weather sealed body and a feature set not seen on any other DSLR in the world. For starters, it is the only full frame DSRL that has sensor based image stabilization. We have seen this with cameras but not in the full frame DSLR world.

The Pentax K-1 features a full frame sensor and the first ever image stabilization system for a full frame DSLR.

One common complaint that many point out about the K-1 is the lack of lenses to choose from. While they may not offer what a Nikon or Canon camera can in terms of lens choices, the idea that there are only a few lenses is just not true. Take a look HERE to read up on this topic.

Having a sensor that is moveable is more than just for image stabilization. They also have an anti-aliasing filter simulation that creates vibration in the sensor during the exposure. This will intentionally blur high frequency details across  multiple pixels which helps avoid moiré.

They also have a Horizon Correction feature that rotates the sensor if you happen to have the camera slightly off level. Since there is a built in GPS (something else they should ALL have), their own Astrotracer system uses the movement of the sensor to negate the rotation of the earth while taking night time images of the stars and solar system. This is done via calculations using the built in GPS.

Another benefit from this sensor tech is called Pixel Shift Resolution. This increases color resolution by shooting four images and slightly moving the sensor in one pixel increments. This cancels the Bayer color filter array while also lowering image noise by averaging images.

The Pentax K-1 has a tilt screen that will tilt in the direction you want it in!

Tilt Screen Done Right!

Another very cool feature on this super rugged body is the very handy tilt screen. If you've ever used a tilt screen when shooting on a tripod, you know just how beneficial that they are when it comes to composing a shot and also staying dry and not so dirty! Not having to lay down on the ground OR having to stand on something just to see the camera at a specific angle is very helpful. When you use an L bracket or shoot vertical, the usefulness of the tilting screen goes away unless the screen can tilt out in the vertical orientation as well. With the K-1, you get exactly that.

The downside on this camera is the Auto Focus system. It fails to compare to the three previously mentioned cameras in this article. It has just 33 focus points and of that, 25 are cross type. Another annoying feature on this camera is the AF points do not illuminate until you lock focus which seems a bit odd.

Despite the fast action shortcomings, at around $1,800, it is an absolute steal when compared to other bodies with the same image quality and feature set. If you are a still shooter focusing mainly on landscape, portraits, products, etc – this may just be the perfect camera for you. Here is a list of the K-1's key features:

  • 36.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor with no anti-aliasing filter
  • 5-axis image stabilization rated to 5 stops by CIPA standard testing
  • 100% pentaprism viewfinder with 0.7x magnification
  • 33-point AF system (25 cross-type)
  • Extensive weather-sealing
  • 1/200 sec flash sync speed
  • 14-bit Raw recording (DNG or PEF)
  • AA filter simulation
  • Multi-shot Pixel Shift Resolution mode
  • Built-in GPS with electro-magnetic compass and Astrotracer function
  • 4.4 fps continuous shooting (6. 5 fps in APS-C crop mode)
  • Wi-Fi
  • 1080/30p video

A Facebook fellow photographer and friend from Norway is the one man that inspired me to jump into photography just by seeing his work on 500px. He is a school teacher from Norway that got a camera as a gift and began getting deeper and deeper into Photography and produces fantastic landscape images. He uses and LOVES the Pentax K-1 for his landscape works and swears by the K-1 for its amazing feature set and image quality. He said “The image quality is superb with fantastic dynamic range, resolution and color depth!” He can be found on FACEBOOK HERE!

As mentioned in this article, at the time of this writing, the Pentax K-1 can be had for about $1,800.00

You can order the Pentax K-1 right HERE!

Fuji X-T2

The FujiFilm X-T2 Mirrorless camera is one that has a much smaller form factor in body size and lens lineup than any of the others in this list thus far. This is the first camera listed here that contains an APS-C (Crop) sensor but don't let that fool you. The war of full frame vs crop has become much less of a battle today as many crop sensor cameras perform as well and in some cases better than their full frame counterparts. The Fujifilm cameras have a rugged, classic look that makes them look like the cameras of decades past but the technology contained within is anything but nostalgic.

The Fuji X Mount lenses are second to none in terms of quality and performance and they are much better on your back!

The newer sensor now comes in a larger 24.3mp resolution. The EVF (electronic view finder) is a 2.36M dot OLED display that has been improved upon to help with moire and false colors. This is due to the faster refresh rate of 60fps.

The Native ISO Range is 200-12,800 while the extended range is 100-51,200. The mechanical shutter can capture image information from 30 sec to 1/8000th while the electronic shutter can shoot up to 1/32,000th.

The FUJIFILM X-T2 with optional grip that makes 11fps with continuous AF possible

The buffer/fps information is as follows depending on what format you are shooting in:

  • Up to 14 fps for up to 42 Frames in JPEG Format
  • Up to 14 fps for up to 28 Frames in Raw Format
  • Up to 8 fps for up to 83 Frames in JPEG Format
  • Up to 8 fps for up to 33 Frames in Raw Format
  • Up to 5 fps for Unlimited Frames
  • Up to 5 fps for up to 39 Frames in Raw Format

The Auto Focus system is improved and this is thanks to the 325 AF points (169 offer Phase Detection) and the addition of an AF point selection joystick which many had been hoping for. The X-T2 can shoot up to 8fps when shooting continuous with AF and increased to 11fps when used with the booster battery grip.

VIDEO

A great addition to this body is the introduction of 4K Video recording. The X-T2 offers internal UHD 4k along with an 8 bit 4:2:2 HDMI output. The internal recording offers a nimble 100Mbps bitrate to allow fine details to be recorded. F-Log Gamma setting is available for capturing a flat picture which will aide in serious grading applications.

The tilting screen not only tilts up or down but also to the right which is a very welcome feature in any flip screen on ANY camera.

The X-T2 has a more powerful processor coupled up with revised algorithms and faster read-out to increase the camera's speed. This is of course a welcomed improvement to all the loyal Fuji fans waiting for an upgrade.

Here are some of the vitals for the Fuji X-T2:

  • 24.3MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS III Sensor
  • X-Processor Pro Engine
  • 0. 77x 2.36m-Dot OLED Viewfinder
  • 3.0″ 1.04m-Dot 3-Way Tilting LCD Screen
  • Internal UHD 4K Video & F-Log Gamma
  • Built-In Wi-Fi Connectivity
  • 325-Point Intelligent Hybrid AF System
  • Up to 8 fps Shooting and ISO 51200
  • Weather-Sealed Body; Two UHS-II SD Slots
  • Film Simulation and Grain Effect Modes

The Fuji X-T2 currently sells for about $1,500.

You can find it on Amazon.com right HERE!

Panasonic DC-GH5

Rounding out our list here is a Micro 4/3 camera that has an amazing set of features and may be best suited for videographers instead of photography because it sports some amazing, pro level video features. The Micro 4/3 system is truly a mirrorless digital system much as the Fujifilm systems are. The main benefits from these smaller mirrorless cameras are the size and weight of them versus the much larger Full Frame DSLR bodies and even crop sensor DSLRs. The DSLR's are basically film cameras with a digital imaging sensor placed where the film once was. Now that isn't exactly how it works but they are these enormous and heavy systems that after a full day of shooting can give you tennis elbow – or should it be called Photographers Elbow??

Whatever the case may be, smaller and lighter cameras have their obvious advantages and the pluses of the Micro 4/3 system don't end there. Since they all share the same sensor and mounting, all Micro 4/3 lenses can be used on Micro 4/3 camera bodies even when they are from different brands. The crop factor of a Micro 4/3 is 2.0 meaning the focal length equivalent would be double that of a full frame camera. So when shooting 15mm on a Micro 4/3, this would give you the field of view of a 30mm lens on a standard full frame camera.

Now that we have that out of the way, let's take a look at this feature packed, super system that is the Panasonic DC=GH5!

From the start, I will point out that this camera has some very high end video features and this should be taken into consideration. While it is a very capable camera for Photography, the video aspects of this camera is where it really shines as it should.

The in-body image stabilization and 4K video without cropping make this an attractive upgrade to anyone who was using the popular and powerful Gh5.

Optional : Panasonic DMW-XLR1 XLR Microphone Adapter – Dual XLR Inputs for the GH5! Pro quality recording at up to 96 kHz & 24-Bit

The 20.3 MP Sensor has an ISO range of 200-25600 with an extended mode of 100-25600. The shutter information is as follows:

The video aspects of this camera are truly impressive and many indie filmmakers turn to the GH5 for their professional video needs. As mentioned earlier, it records 4K with no crop and Internal 4:2:2 10 Bit 4k Recording at 24/30fps. This camera supports two SD cards (both UHS-II)

Below is a listing of several key aspects of the Panasonic DC-GH5:

  • 20.3MP Digital Live MOS Sensor
  • Venus Engine Image Processor
  • 4K Video with No Crop
  • Internal 4:2:2 10-Bit 4K Video at 24/30p
  • 5-Axis Sensor Stabilization; Dual I.S. 2
  • 0. 76x 3.68m-Dot OLED Viewfinder
  • 3.2″ 1.62m-Dot Free-Angle Touchscreen
  • Advanced DFD AF System; 6K & 4K PHOTO
  • ISO 25600 and 12 fps Continuous Shooting
  • Dual UHS-II SD Slots; Wi-Fi & Bluetooth

The tech included in this body is very impressive as is the built to last quality on the outside. It is constructed from magnesium alloy with die-cast front and rear frames. All joints, dials and buttons are fully sealed and protected against splashes and they are dust proof as well. If cold climates are in your plans, the body is also freezer proof down to 14 degrees F/ -10 degrees C.

For anyone looking to get into a system with a wide assortment of lenses, robust and professional video features as well as extremly good stills, the Panasonic DC-GH5 is as good as anything else on the market today and at a price point far below other offerings.

The Panasonic DC-GH5 retails for about $1995.99

This Camera can be purchased HERE!

OTHER CAMERAS NOT LISTED

Obviously there are other cameras that fall into this price range that could have replaced any of the cameras here. For example, the Sony A9 is under $5,000 and certainly could be considered one of the best around today for under $5,000 but to be fair to other brands, I tried to not choose more than one from each manufacturer which I have done. The Canon 5DSr is obviously another great camera that closes in on the $4,000 mark. The Sony A7RII is still an amazing camera with that sensor that still blows my mind. So if you don't see a camera that you'd like to have seen mentioned, please leave a comment below!

CONCLUSION

In concluding this article, I had mentioned earlier what camera body I would choose if I had to make a choice. For me, personally, it would be quite simple. I currently shoot Nikon and have a handful of very high quality (AND HEAVY) lenses that I love to use and they give me great pleasure when doing so. I currently shoot a Nikon D750 so the obvious choice for me personally would be the Nikon D850. The D850 is a beast of a camera with an amazing feature set. The 45.7 MP sensor and the quality of that sensor is simply amazing. That along with the speed in which it works is something that just 5 years ago would seem impossible. I am fully used to and comfortable with the Nikon menu system and it would only make sense for me to choose the Nikon.

Now on the other hand, if you were to hand someone a  check for $10,000 and they had to choose a system listed here and buy the camera body and lenses with the money, what would you choose?? I would probably go with the Sony A7RIII. From what I have personally seen and have heard from other photographers lucky enough to have their hands on one of these, it is simply an amazing body. That coupled with the glass Sony is producing with their G Master series is totally amazing. Mirrorless is the future and Sony is leading the way with their fantastic sensors and technology that is pushing the entire industry forward.

Please leave comments or any questions below and thanks for reading!

 

 

 

 

Best beginner camera of 2020 - which one to give

Best beginner camera? Although this seems like a simple question, it is somewhat complex. By reflecting on this issue and considering several options, you can benefit in the future, when an aspiring photographer turns into a professional. Undoubtedly, an entry-level camera should be easy to use, easy to carry, as well as intuitive and expandable. All this should contribute to the development0005 passion for photography .

We all know that the modern smartphone - an electronic device with a built-in camera - is in many ways the best camera for a beginner photographer. In fact, phone cameras are so good that most photographers, novice and professional alike, are taking more and more photos with their smartphones and ditching larger, more complex cameras.

However, smartphone camera has limitations in design and performance are two factors that often push people towards a more capable photography platform. That's where this article comes in handy - for scenarios where you, a friend or family member showcase real photographic talent with a smartphone and everyone agrees it's time to get a "better" camera.

So let's take a look at the different types of cameras available to give you, the newbie and/or buyer, some food for thought by listing the pros and cons of each platform.

Before we dive in, it's important to state that almost every modern camera, including the most expensive and sophisticated models, has fully automatic modes that allow any beginner to easily master everything but composition. You don't need to know the scientific basics of exposure and aperture, shutter speed, ISO settings to choose the best "professional" camera from a leading manufacturer and take a great photo. Don't believe me? Recall the hotly debated case of a primate taking an incredible selfie with a professional camera a few years ago. nine0007

Almost all cameras allow manual control of exposure, focus, shooting modes, etc. - all subjective decisions when creating pictures that can give a more detailed, artistic picture. But, the ease of manually adjusting the controls varies from one camera to another. For a novice with potential, the ease of manual control should be a prime buying consideration, because the budding photographer is likely to outgrow some of the automatic modes and want to take control of certain aspects of the snapshot process. nine0007

Finally, the newer the camera, the better it will perform in many ways. Indeed, with each new generation, there has been incremental improvement in image quality, low-light performance, autofocus speed and accuracy, and more. Does this mean that an old digital camera can't take a great photo? Of course not. But, in the digital world, new almost always means better.

All cameras we have selected for this guide, are suitable for beginners in photography but have the ability to grow with you as you improve. Let's start.

The Best Cameras for Beginners

  1. Nikon D3500 - the best all-round camera

    What we liked :

    • Everything is simple
    • Integrated photo tutor
    • Good all-round performance

    What disappointed us :

    • Expensive enough for a basic DSLR
    • User settings missing

    In addition to the "intelligent" fully automatic mode, Nikon D3500 provides a wide range of scene modes and effects. More uniquely, there's a Guide shooting mode that serves as a kind of interactive photography course. No problem with image quality either, thanks to a high-performance 24.2MP sensor and processor, wide ISO (sensitivity) range, fast 5fps burst shooting, and high-resolution LCD screen. nine0007

    However, this is not a touch screen and cannot be tilted or rotated. Another downside is that autofocus is relatively slow in live view and movie modes, but overall the D3500 is the most attractive and best camera for beginner photographers.

  2. Canon EOS 250D - all the benefits of a DSLR + 4K video

    What we like :

    • Compact and lightweight for a
    • DSLR
    • Great for both movies and photos

    What disappointed us :

    • More expensive than DSLRs for beginners
    • Fairly simple basic AF system

    The Canon EOS 250D is an entry-level DSLR that offers 4K video capture and replaces the popular EOS 200D in Canon's lineup. The Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system for live view and movie modes, inherited from its predecessor, makes the camera especially handy for tracking video shooting. The near-silent autofocus of the supplied 18-55mm lens is another bonus. nine0007

    Not just for video, the 250D is a very advanced still camera. It's beginner-friendly with additional guided user interface and creative support modes that work seamlessly with the fully articulated touch screen. The camera can also grow with you as you learn new skills and techniques, Canon's excellent Quick Menu gives you intuitive and instant access to important settings.

    The

    250D is one of the smallest and lightest DSLRs on the market that you can take anywhere. Our only real criticism is that when shooting with the viewfinder rather than in live view, the autofocus system is pretty straightforward. There are a total of nine AF points, and only one of them is cross-type, capable of resolving detail in both the horizontal and vertical planes. nine0007

  3. Fujifilm X-T200 - the latest mirrorless camera for beginners

    What we liked :

    • Simple but very effective
    • Small, light and stylish

    What disappointed us :

    • More expensive than some
    • mirrorless cameras
    • Low battery life
    Fujifilm's

    mirrorless cameras not only look fantastic with the cool retro styling that has been a hit with photographers for over a decade, but they're also some of the best cameras on the market. nineThe 0003 Fujifilm X-T200 is one of the new models aimed at entry level users who want opportunities to grow their skills and create high quality images and videos. Its redesigned sensor provides a wide dynamic range and pleasingly low noise, and it pairs well with Fuji's Film Simulation modes to create images with real popularity.

    The

    X-T200 shoots impressive 4K video, and the articulated touch screen allows for creative shooting angles. Having access to stable, sharp Fujifilm X-mount lenses is also a good thing, and it ensures you have enough room to grow and explore shooting in whatever direction you're working. nine0007

  4. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III is one of the best vlogging cameras

    What We Liked :

    • Live Streaming Opportunity
    • Fast universal lens

    What disappointed us :

    • 10 minute limit for 4K video
    • Poor battery life

    Don't be fooled by the slim size of this compact camera, it's actually an impressive still and video machine, capable of not only capturing high-quality Full HD and 4K video, but also streaming it live on the Internet. You might be surprised how many YouTube creators film their work on Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III .

    The fast lens equivalent of 24-100mm provides tremendous shooting flexibility. No matter the lighting conditions, no matter how far away the subject is, you will be able to capture it decently. Video features are also backed up with vital additions like an external microphone port, ensuring your videos sound as good as they look. The camera feels great in the hand, and the 180-degree swivel LCD display makes it easy to see the results - you get a device that can excel in all categories. nine0007

  5. Polaroid Originals OneStep+ - physical prints in chic lofi style

    What we love :

    • Makes great instant prints
    • Compatible with smartphone

    What disappointed us :

    • Expensive consumables
    • Plastic assembly

    The best cameras don't have to be digital! Analog images are great. Physical prints of photographs have a much more tangible lasting value than digital files, and there are many opportunities to include them in your creative projects. nine0007

    Polaroid Originals OneStep+ The is the ultimate instant camera - not only does it produce beautiful square prints in classic Polaroid style, but it also offers a Bluetooth connection to a smartphone which gives the user access to many additional shooting modes such as double exposure, painting light, noise trigger and more.

    Full of retro charm, the

    OneStep+ is a well-designed and easy-to-use camera with a powerful flash and two lenses, one for general shooting and the other for portraits and close-ups. It's great value for money, although keep in mind that the supplies are quite expensive. Buy in bulk if you can and you will definitely save. nine0007

  6. Sony a6000 - sophisticated and fast mirrorless camera

    What we like :

    • Fast and accurate shooting
    • Often found at a discount

    What disappointed us :

    • No 4K video
    • No touch screen

    The Sony a6000 is still a fantastic camera in its own right: a fast, lightweight and reliable mirrorless camera with an APS-C sensor and a sophisticated autofocus system. The aspiring photographer who needs a solid foundation from which to grow and develop their skills will find the a6000 offers all this and more. In addition, with all subsequent models released, this camera is now available at an absolutely unbeatable price. nine0007 Equipped with a powerful APS-C 24.3 sensor, the

    Sony a6000 is an E-mount camera, which means there is a fantastic selection of lenses in addition to the included 16-50mm lenses. This is an ideal choice for those who want to get down to business right away; it doesn't have as many control modes as other cameras, but if you're willing to work a little, you'll find it's a useful and capable imaging machine.

  7. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mk III - Beginner Travel Camera

    What we like :

    • Travel-friendly size and weight
    • Good EVF and tilt screen

    What disappointed us :

    • A rather modest image resolution of 16.1 MP
    • Autofocus can be a bit slow

    One advantage of Micro Four Thirds mirrorless system cameras is that they tend to be quite small and light. This is definitely true of the Olympus E-M10, which is now in its third generation. Despite its small size, it is impeccably built and beautifully decorated in a classic retro style. The included EZ 14-42mm lens is also small and retractable. However, it has a built-in motor that allows for smooth zooming while shooting video. nine0007

    The maximum burst rate for photos is 8.6 frames per second, although autofocus can be slightly slower than many competing cameras, making it difficult to track fast-moving subjects. Capturing movies in 4K UHD is a bonus.

  8. Nikon D5600 - Wildlife

    What we liked :

    What disappointed us :

    • Slow AF for live view and movies
    • Less beginner-friendly than D3500

    The Nikon D5600 sports and wildlife hunter features an advanced 39-point autofocus system that boasts Auto Zone, Dynamic Zone and 3D Tracking modes. The optional 18-140mm VR lens is also suitable for this type of photography, especially with its 27-210mm "effective" zoom range and competent vibration reduction (optical image stabilization) system. nine0007

    When you need to go to the countryside for wildlife photography or stand for long periods of time at a sporting event, the D5600 won't weigh you down as it's one of the lightest and most compact DSLRs on the market.

    The fully articulated touch screen is an added bonus, although for live view and movie shooting, sensor-based contrast-detection autofocus can be very slow.

  9. Panasonic LUMIX DMC-TZ100 Compact Camera for Beginners

    What we liked :

    What we were disappointed with :

    • The touch screen cannot be tilted or rotated
    • No textured grip surface

    The Panasonic TZ100 is a small camera with very large specifications and features. It features a 20.1 MP 1.0-type sensor that is physically large for a compact camera and maintains relatively quiet image quality even at high ISO settings. It also houses an electronic viewfinder and a high-resolution 3. 0-inch rear screen, as well as a 10x zoom lens with an effective range of 25-250mm. nine0007

    To keep things stable, there's optical image stabilization for photos and 5-axis hybrid stabilization for video capture. You can also shoot in 4K UHD resolution for both stills and video at frame rates up to 30 fps. For full-resolution photos, the burst rate remains high at 10fps.

    Among the tricks is "post-focus", which allows you to take a series of photographs with automatic changes in focus distances, and then select the frame with the perfect focus point. nine0007

  10. Olympus Tough TG-5 - Compact Underwater Camera

    What we liked :

    What we were disappointed with :

    • Noisy image quality at high ISO
    • settings
    • Quite expensive for a "cool" compact

    Like other "tough" compact cameras on the market, it is designed to withstand impact. It can withstand immersion in water up to 15 meters deep, a fall from a height of 2. 1 meters and freezing to -10 degrees Celsius. If you're feeling particularly pissed, you can even try crushing it with 100kg and it'll still work. nine0007

    All in all, the Olympus Tough TG-5 is a great camera for everything from mountain skiing to sea snorkelling. The maximum burst speed is 20fps, and you can also shoot movies in 4K UHD. A 4x optical zoom lens adds versatility, as do built-in macro and microscopic modes. To go even further, a range of accessories include fisheye lens converters and a telephoto lens. nine0007

    Although Olympus released the Tough TG-6, we would say that this model is the best choice for beginners, offering basically the same package (the new version has an identical sensor and lens; in fact, the only difference is a few new modes) for the best price.

Best type of camera for beginners

SLR for beginners

Right or wrong, the digital single lens reflex (DSLR) is the default camera for beginners. This is the camera that most people think of when they want to get away from the camera of a smartphone or, in days gone by, from a pocket soap dish.

Pros :

  • Image quality : DSLRs provide the highest image quality for beginners, but that quality also depends on a good lens.
  • Flexibility : Lens interchangeability allows you to shoot from ultra wide-angle fisheye lenses to extreme telephoto, provided you have these components.
  • nine0035 Upgrade : You can add lenses, accessories and more to your DSLR kit, or get matching lenses and an improved camera body.
  • Sharing : If you have a friend with the same type of camera, you can share lenses and accessories without buying your own.

Cons :

  • A few parts : SLR needs a lens. Because the camera is only part of a modular system, you should carefully consider your options for owning and carrying multiple lenses and accessories. nine0044
  • Difficulty : even the simplest DSLR is adorned with many buttons, controls and menu pages.
  • Intimidating Difficulty : Difficulty like this is a fear factor for many aspiring photographers.
  • Size/Weight : If you are used to shooting with your smartphone, the size and weight of the DSLR will be shocking. Carrying it around can get tiring.
  • Cost : DSLRs, even entry-level ones, are more than just an investment in photography. nine0044

Beginner's Mirrorless Cameras

While "mirrorless" cameras predated DSLRs in the form of large format cameras and rangefinders, the digital mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras are relatively new to the market. However, this technology is rapidly maturing to the point where many professionals as well as traditional DSLR manufacturers are moving to digital mirrorless cameras. nine0007

The difference between a reflex camera and a mirrorless interchangeable lens digital camera is that a mirrorless camera does not have a mirror that reflects the image captured through the lens up through a prism and is output to the optical viewfinder. Without a mirror, a mirrorless camera displays the image through the lens electronically on the screen or through the electronic viewfinder (EVF)—you don't look through the lens optically.

Pros :

  • Image quality : As with a SLR camera, high image quality is a hallmark of these cameras.
  • Flexibility : Again, like a DSLR, lenses range from wide-angle to extreme telephoto.
  • Growth opportunities : There is room for growth here too, just like with DSLR systems. Mirrorless cameras also allow you to adapt lenses from different manufacturers for virtually limitless optical possibilities. nine0044
  • Exchange : You can share equipment with friends who use the same system.
  • Size/Weight : Mirrorless cameras are usually lighter and smaller than their DSLR counterparts.
  • WYSIWYG : With the electronic viewfinder, you can see the exposure accuracy when composing a picture. What you see is what you get.

Cons :

  • A few parts : A separate lens is also needed for a mirrorless camera. Again, we have a modular system, so be sure to think about what you will need to have and carry with you multiple lenses and accessories. nine0044
  • Complexity : Like DSLRs, these are complex machines - even entry-level models.
  • Intimidating : Lots of buttons and knobs to intimidate the newbie.
  • Battery life : Because they are smaller than DSLRs, their batteries do not last as long, requiring an extra battery and/or charger.
  • Optical Experience : Looking through a beautiful DSLR lens is a pleasure. A mirrorless camera only shows a digital representation of what the lens sees. Some photographers make fun of this. nine0044
  • Sensor size : Mirrorless cameras have sensors ranging from full frame (same size as 35mm film) to half that size. Some photographers prefer aesthetics over larger sensors.
  • Size/Weight : above I said "lighter and smaller than their mirror counterparts", but some of them may be the size of mirror ones. Mirrorless lenses can also be large and heavy. Regardless of how they fit in with DSLRs, their size will be a big issue for those transitioning from a smartphone. nine0044
  • Cost : These cameras can cost the same or more than DSLRs.

Newbie Bridge Cameras

The Bridge Cameras are, in the simplest sense, point-and-shoot (no interchangeable lenses) cameras that are larger than traditional pocket-sized point-and-shoot cameras and have incredibly wide zoom lenses , from wide-angle to telescopic. Like a DSLR or mirrorless camera, they have a full range of controls and settings that allow the beginner to shoot in full auto, full manual, or somewhere in between. nine0007

Pros :

  • Image quality : Sensors are usually smaller than mirrorless and DSLRs, but that doesn't mean you can't take amazing photos.
  • Flexibility : Built-in lens meets wide angle and super telephoto needs.
  • Convenience : You only need to pack one camera. No additional lenses are required.
  • Size/weight : They are lighter and smaller than many DSLRs, especially considering the range of focal lengths.
  • Cost : Bridge cameras are fantastic value when you consider the image quality and the flexibility of permanently attached superzoom lenses.

Cons :

  • Image Quality : Depending on the model, this type of camera may have a rather small sensor which is not ideal for printing very large images. nine0044
  • Simplicity : Many bridge cameras offer full manual control, but are generally simpler than interchangeable lens cameras.
  • Size/Weight : They are larger than other pocket cameras. And when the lenses are extended, they can be pretty damn big.
  • Focus Speed ​​ : Manufacturers are constantly improving autofocus performance, but these cameras can focus a little slower than DSLRs.
  • nine0049

    Point-and-shoot cameras

    The point-and-shoot camera market has undoubtedly suffered from smartphones, and it's a tragedy because point-and-shoot cameras have never been more powerful than they are now. Some compact cameras are small enough to fit in your pocket and can produce photos that outperform any smartphone or even entry-level DSLRs.

    A point and shoot camera is a miniature machine equipped with either a fixed focal length lens or a zoom lens. As with the mirrorless and bridge cameras above, you frame your composition by looking at the LCD screen, the electronic viewfinder or, if the camera is like a rangefinder, the off-axis optical viewfinder. nine0007

    Pros :

    • Image Quality : Some compact cameras have lenses and sensors that compete with DSLRs and mirrorless cameras.
    • Size/weight : they can be even smaller than a smartphone. Put it in your pocket or backpack and forget about it.
    • Convenience : Like a bridge camera, you don't need to carry other lenses.

    Cons :

    • Image quality : Like a bridge camera, sensors can be small, which is limited in difficult lighting conditions or when printing large prints.
    • Simplicity : These may be the simplest cameras and are easier to adapt to automatic functions, but some also allow full manual control.
    • Shooting speed : Autofocus speed is good, but it has not yet caught up with DSLRs in all scenarios. nine0044

    In conclusion - the beginner's camera

    We haven't given you a definitive answer, but hopefully we've given you some valuable tips to keep in mind when it comes to buying or purchasing the best beginner camera .

    Please feel free to ask questions or leave comments below. Are you a beginner or are you buying a camera as a gift? Contact us - we will help you make the best choice.

    Top 8 | best cameras for beginners

    The best beginner camera must meet three key criteria. First, it should be simple and easy to use for people who have yet to learn the technical intricacies of photography. Secondly, it must be compatible with a wide range of interchangeable lenses because they are the key to advancing you as a photographer. Third, it must be affordable! If you are just starting out, you can spend all your money on your first camera. Therefore, before buying, figure out first what you REALLY need, and then proceed to the choice. The best beginner camera has both automatic and manual modes. To be honest, even more advanced enthusiasts have such cameras. That is, you first work as a beginner in automatic modes, and as your skills develop, you can switch to manual ones. nine0007

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    If you are just at the beginning of your photography career, then most likely you have a limited budget. Or maybe you don't want to spend too much money on a camera because you're not sure if you can do it. Don't think that a cheap DSLR or mirrorless camera won't be good enough - such cameras will have more advanced features than smartphones anyway. Consider DSLR or mirrorless cameras. Yes, they may seem outdated to some, but believe me, with them you can get acquainted with everything that photography has to offer. So here is our rating of the best cameras for beginners in 2022 .

    • 1. Sony a6000 - affordable camera for beginners
    • 2. Nikon D3500 - a good SLR camera for a beginner photographer
    • 3. Fujifilm X-T30 II is a great mirrorless camera for quality photos
    • 4. Canon EOS 250D - a camera for a beginner photographer in the middle price category
    • 5. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV - an inexpensive camera for an amateur
    • 6. Sony ZV-E10 - a reliable video camera
    • 7. Panasonic Lumix G100 - a versatile camera for beginners
    • 8. Nikon Z fc - compact camera for beginner photographers

    Sony a6000

    Digital camera Sony A6000 can be safely recommended to any novice photographer, even though this model first appeared on the market back in 2014! Beginners do not need to purchase the latest and most expensive camera. It is wiser to choose one of the earlier models - this is a great way to get a device with all the features you need at the initial stage at a bargain price. Today it is quite possible to find a Sony A6000 model for less than 54,000 rubles - in today's market this is one of the best prices in the digital camera segment. nine0007

    The Sony A6000 is an APS-C sensor camera that is more advanced than smartphones. In addition, the camera is quite fast - 11 fps burst shooting with a sophisticated tracking autofocus system that is still competitive. A huge range of E-mount lenses provide great shooting possibilities. A variety of optics options allow you to adjust the camera settings depending on the type of lens - zoom lenses or ultra-precise prime lenses. nine0007

    Of course, in the 8 years that have passed since the appearance of the Sony A6000, technology has advanced noticeably, so a number of innovations will not be available in this model. One of them is the maximum allowed video format - Full HD, and not the most popular today 4K. It might upset some people, but not others. In addition, the swivel screen is not touch-sensitive, so to control the camera you will have to understand the Sony settings menu, which, as you know, is one of the weak points of this brand's cameras. All in all, these are all minor details compared to the Sony A6000's ability to capture stunning images. In addition, the camera is comfortable to hold in the hand and has a favorable price. Today, for the money, this is the best camera for beginner amateur photographers. nine0007

    fast and accurate shooting

    attractive price

    no 4K video

    no touch screen

    • 54,000₽

    Nikon D3500

    If you think that SLR cameras are complicated, then you are mistaken. The Nikon D3500 has a great "Guide" shooting mode that acts as a fully interactive guide to photography and camera settings that is displayed on the rear LCD screen. The controls on the D3500 are clear and easy to use. The model is relatively inexpensive, so you won't find any more advanced features here. For example, there is no custom settings menu for customizing camera functions that is found in any other series of Nikon DSLRs. Autofocus in live view and movie modes is somewhat slow, although the Nikon AF-P DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 G VR lens speeds it up. Overall, the image quality and performance of the Nikon D3500 is extremely good, especially given its price, and its 5fps burst rate is pretty good for an entry-level DSLR. And the model is compatible with many other excellent lenses from Nikon. nine0007

    easy to use

    good performance

    no swivel and non-touch rear screen

    • 32 500₽

    Fujifilm X-T30 II

    In this ranking, this is the best quality camera for beginner photographers, but its price may be too high for many. For those on a budget, the Fujifilm X-T30 II is a great investment as it is a fantastic camera and a pleasure to use. With it, you can get great pictures that require minimal editing. As with most Fuji X cameras, this model uses intuitive dial controls that are reminiscent of old-fashioned film cameras - much more pleasant than digging through the menus of digital cameras. Another great advantage of Fujifilm is the ability to create stunning JPEG images full of brightness and color by choosing one of the unique Film Simulation modes. If you don't like spending a lot of time at your computer editing your captured images, then the Fujifilm X-T30 II is a great choice for you. As already mentioned, this is the most expensive camera of all presented in this top. One way to save money is to consider an original Fujifilm X-T30 camera as an option. Minor upgrades in the Mark II version include slightly higher LCD resolution, additional functionality and performance. It can be assumed that over time the Fujifilm X-T30 camera will be discontinued, but today you can still try to find it at an affordable price. nine0007

    classic, tactile controls

    excellent image quality

    cheaper version available

    • 67 900₽

    Canon EOS 250D

    This isn't the cheapest entry-level DSLR you can buy on the market right now, but it's often worth paying a little more to get a lot more. And this model is a prime example of that. Equipped with Canon's top-notch 24.1 MP APS-C sensor, the EOS 250D delivers superb real-time shooting with a fully customizable touch display and fast autofocus. In fact, we'd say it's one of the few DSLRs where taking pictures with the screen is much more convenient than with the viewfinder. nineThe 0003 Canon EOS 250D also offers 4K video shooting, all packed into the smallest body a DSLR can have.

    excellent Live View shooting

    few AF points

    • 45 590₽

    Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

    Featuring a new 20-megapixel sensor, improved image stabilization and a new flip-out and tilt screen Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV has something to offer you. While retaining the 4K video capability and attractive design of the Mark III, the Mark IV is a great choice for those looking for an entry-level camera that can do just about anything. It's one of our favorite compact cameras - it's small enough to take anywhere and has so much more to offer than meets the eye. The OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a camera that will last a long time. It's about durability and functionality. nine0007

    compact

    plastic design

    • 67 900₽

    Sony ZV-E10

    If you plan to both take photos and shoot videos, then a dedicated vlogging camera like the new Sony ZV-E10 is perfect for you. It doesn't have an electronic viewfinder, but it does offer excellent video shooting capabilities, including 4K video recording and a fully variable viewing angle screen. It also comes with an excellent built-in microphone, Sony autofocus, all at an attractive price. It's a pity that there's no built-in image stabilization, and you can't navigate through the menus using touch controls (which is a glaring omission for a vlogging camera), but for beginners in this area this is unlikely to be a big drawback. More importantly, since this model uses the Sony E mount, a large number of lenses from Sony and other independent brands are compatible with it. nine0007

    excellent autofocus

    no viewfinder

    • 63 990₽

    Panasonic Lumix G100

    Interested in the idea of ​​a vlog? The Panasonic Lumix G100 is a great alternative to the Sony ZV-E10 . This model has a smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor, but it also has an electronic viewfinder that Sony doesn't have. In fact, the simplicity of the Lumix G100 will be enjoyed by photographers and vloggers alike. The camera makes it easy to capture high-quality video and photos with conveniently located buttons. Even people not interested in the technicalities of shooting great videos can get great results with this camera. By equipping its model with a decent viewfinder and “right camera” ergonomics, Panasonic has given the G100 a significant advantage in a highly competitive market. nine0007

    audio recording capabilities

    no headphone jack and USB-C

    • 59 990₽

    Nikon Z fc

    Nikon Z fc is, without a doubt, the coolest camera for a beginner photographer in this top. It's a retro-style wheelless mirrorless car that's a real pleasure to work with. Yes, and he looks great. The hardware is pretty much the same as the Nikon Z50, with the same APS-C sensor and processor and many of the same specs. A few extras like a built-in flash are missing, and it's also more expensive than the Z50, so if you don't care about aesthetics, then look at Nikon's DX-format cameras - they'll be a smarter choice. But if you are one of those people who love retro and everything connected with it, then Nikon Z fc is just made for you. This is not the best budget camera for beginners, but for the money you get a lot of features, and its appearance alone can inspire you to get serious about photography. nine0007

    compact size

    multiple DX Z mount lenses

    The best camera for beginners: what to look for

    Why would a beginner photographer buy a camera when they already have a pretty decent camera in their handheld mobile device? Although at first glance it may seem that it is much easier to get by with a smartphone, in fact, cameras have many advantages that phones cannot compete with due to the limitations due to the physical size of the case. nine0007

    Chief among these advantages is the size of the sensor. Due to the physical size and shape of the camera, it can use a larger sensor than a smartphone. Professional cameras tend to be equipped with full-frame sensors, while amateur cameras use APS-C format sensors. Image sensor formats in cameras are Four Thirds, 1 inch, and 1 / 2.3 inch, which corresponds to the “giant” sensor size in a smartphone camera.

    Don't bother remembering technical terms, just remember that a larger sensor produces sharper images with less noise, especially when shooting in low light conditions. In addition, images taken with a larger sensor have a wider range of brightness per frame (the apparent difference in tones between light and dark areas). nine0007

    Another significant advantage of cameras is the quality of the lens. They can be used with optical zoom lenses that allow you to get closer to your subject without losing image quality, as well as high-quality fixed focal length lenses that provide maximum image clarity. Whether your focus is on the most versatile shooting options or the highest image quality, a camera can outperform a smartphone in both ways. nine0007

    The list of benefits is long. Cameras, for example, have more advanced autofocus systems that can track and capture moving subjects, and allow you to shoot bursts at high frame rates to ensure you don't miss the perfect shot. More megapixels on the camera means that the quality of images printed after shooting will be higher.

    What is the difference between different types of digital cameras? nine0037

    There are a number of basic types of cameras suitable for beginner amateur photographers - these are the ones presented in this ranking of good cameras for beginners. Below is a brief description of the main types of these devices and the differences between them.

    Digital reflex cameras (DSLR). Once considered the standard for professional digital cameras, SLRs are still one of the most popular cameras in the world today. They use a single lens for shooting and focusing (unlike older "rangefinder" style cameras which had two lenses). DSLR cameras have an internal reflex mechanism that powers the optical viewfinder - many photographers still prefer it over an LCD screen to compose their shots while shooting. In addition, DSLR cameras are more durable and weather resistant than other types of cameras, although this largely depends on the model of the device. nine0007

    Mirrorless digital cameras. Like the DSLRs described above, they have a special lens mount that allows you to change lenses if necessary. At the same time, mirrorless digital cameras do not have a reflex mechanism for using the optical viewfinder. The reason is that it makes the devices much lighter and more compact. Mirrorless cameras are often considered the most promising type of camera, which is why the most interesting developments in imaging technologies are being carried out in this direction. nine0007

    Compact cameras. These units have a fixed lens that cannot be changed. It can be a zoom lens, which allows you to work over a wide range of focal lengths, or a "primary" lens with a fixed focal length, which gives higher image quality. Compact cameras, also known as point-and-shoot cameras, were once thought to be cheap and of poor quality, but they have come a long way in recent years to compete with smartphone cameras. Many compact cameras today are capable of delivering image quality comparable to interchangeable lens cameras. nine0007

    Instant cameras. Like yesterday's Polaroids, today's instant cameras can print an image just moments after the picture is taken! Although these devices will never win an award for technical excellence, they are a kind of exciting entertainment, especially for beginner amateur photographers.


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