Best Cameras for Beginners in 2020: 14 Entry-Level Options
Table of Contents
- What Should I Look for in a Beginner Camera?
- Best Point and Shoot Cameras
- Sony RX100 VII
- Canon G7X Mark III
- Fuji X100V
- Panasonic LX 100 II
- Sony RX10 IV
- Best Compact Interchangeable Lens Cameras
- Sony a6600
- Fuji X-T30
- Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
- Panasonic GX85
- Canon EOS M50
- Best DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras
- Nikon Z50
- Canon EOS RP
- Canon Rebel T8i
- Nikon D7500
What Should I Look for in a Beginner Camera?
When you start to look for a camera to start exploring photography, there are a few things for you to consider.
1. Quality of Photos
A lot of factors go into the quality of the pictures your camera produces. An expert photographer can get better pictures with a bad camera than a bad photographer can get with the most amazing camera in the world.
However, as a beginner there are things to look for that will help you to get better quality photos. Some sensors will be able to record a sharper image than others or perform better in low light situations. The quality of the lens has a huge impact over the final image quality. Being able to choose your own exposure settings (particularly aperture) will make a very real difference.
Image stabilization can also help in a wide range of situations. A shaky picture will ruin what would otherwise be a great image. Image stabilization systems help to protect against this, allowing you to use slower shutter speeds without introducing camera shake. In turn, this lets you lower the ISO settings to reduce image noise or use a smaller aperture to achieve a wider depth of field.
At the end of the day, the reason to choose a dedicated camera over a cell phone is to get better quality of image, and not all cameras can do that equally.
2. Ease of Use
Photography is a learning process. If your camera isn’t easy to use, or if it intimidates you, you’re not likely to put the effort into learning how to capture better images. You need to find a camera that you enjoy using and that doesn’t make the process harder.
Fortunately, any good beginner camera will have a variety of automatic (and semi-automatic) modes to help simplify the process for beginners.
And, while it might seem silly, the size of a camera may be intimidating for some people. Many beginner cameras are relatively small which helps people feel comfortable with them (and makes them less of a chore to lug around all day).
3. Control Over Settings
In a lot of ways, the more control you have over a camera, the less easy it will be to use. Everything gets a little more complex and you have to think about and juggle more variables. However, control is also what lets you take the pictures you want to take. It allows you to make creative decisions and achieve your goals, making it less likely for the camera to limit your results.
Good beginner cameras strike a compromise over control and ease. They will give you plenty of options to take control when you want to while also giving you the choice to let the camera make decisions about the best settings to use.
4. Price
The reality is that most people don’t have an unlimited budget, and price is an important consideration when choosing a camera, particularly for beginners.
The less expensive the camera, the more limitations you are likely to face. Often, super affordable cameras also have extremely limited potential to capture high quality images, and you might as well just use your phone. Conversely, more expensive cameras will allow you to take better quality pictures, but you might find yourself with more camera than you realistically need for the pictures you’re trying to take.
As a beginner, it’s not a bad thing to find a compromise, spending an amount that will allow you to have enough features and quality to learn from without becoming overwhelmed.
5. Ability to Grow
When choosing a camera for beginners, you want to choose something that will let you grow. We’ve already seen this from the aspect of unlocking new levels of control as you learn and become more comfortable.
Additionally, it can be good to view camera options as ecosystems. You can often start out with an inexpensive camera kit and then gradually expand it. For example, many cameras from the same manufacturer can share lenses. As you develop your skills, upgrading your lenses (or adding different types of lenses) will often give you the most significant improvement. If you plan correctly, once you’re ready to upgrade your camera, you might only need to buy a new camera body and keep using the same lenses you already own.
Best Cameras For Beginners
There are a few approaches you can make when choosing what camera will be best. One of the most important considerations is what type of camera form factor you want — there are three general categories you are likely to choose from: point and shoot, compact interchangeable lens cameras, and DSLR or SLR-style mirrorless cameras.
Point and Shoot Cameras
Point and shoot cameras can be a bit of a mixed bag. They are an incredibly convenient option for many beginners because they offer an all-in-one solution in a small, portable package. You don’t have to worry about deciding what lens to buy or bring with you, and many are small enough to fit in your pocket.
However, many point and shoot cameras don’t produce quality images. In a lot of cases, you will actually probably get better results from your phone than from a cheap point and shoot.
However, that’s not always the case. Some point and shoot cameras have fantastic lenses and very good sensors that let you capture high quality images. Many have robust options to give you full control over your shooting. There are even some point and shoot cameras (namely the Leica Q2) that offer a full set of features (and a price) to rival professional grade DSLRs.
For beginners, there are a few point and shoot cameras that stand out as fantastic options.
Sony RX100 VII
Quick Specs:
- ISO Range: 100-12800
- FPS: Up to 90
- 3.0″ Touchscreen Tilting LCD
- Optical Image Stabilization
- Weight: 0.66 lbs
Sony’s RX100 line has positioned itself as among the best point and shoot camera models and a great choice for beginners. The RX100 VII is the latest in this series and brings some exciting features. It has a built-in lens with a 24-200mm focal length equivalent, giving you options for most events you might find yourself shooting in. The autofocus system is fantastic for a point and shoot, letting you get sharp shots in challenging situations. Not only can you get great quality pictures out of the RX100 VII, but you can also shoot 4K video.
The RX100 VII is a little more expensive than some of the other options, but once you factor out added lenses or other equipment into your kit, this could be a worthwhile choice.
Canon G7X Mark III
Quick Specs:
- ISO Range: 100-12800
- FPS: Up to 20
- Live View, 3.0″ Tilting Touchscreen LCD
- Built-In Optical Image Stabilizer
- Weight: 0.67 lbs
Canon’s G7X line has become quite popular, especially among vloggers who want a tiny, all-in-one system. The G7X Mark III improves on this tradition thanks to its 4K video options and articulating LCD screen that can flip up to be seen from in front of the camera.
The G7X Mark III gives you a 27-270mm equivalent lens and the ability to shoot bursts of up to 20 frames per second. The optical image stabilization system will help both in low light and keep video smooth. If there’s one thing we would like to see added to this camera, it’s the addition of Canon’s Dual Pixel Autofocus System to upgrade its already good autofocus to a fantastic one.
Fuji X100V
Quick Specs:
- ISO Range: 160-12800 (Extended Mode: 80-51200)
- FPS: Up to 20
- Live View, 3″ Touchscreen LCD
- Weight: 1.05 lbs
Fuji’s X100 lineup is going to appeal to more of a niche audience due to its use of a 35mm equivalent prime lens as opposed to the more common zoom lenses as seen in the Sony and Canon cameras above. However, the 35mm lens is a great focal length for many uses and the reduced complexity of a prime lens instead of zoom lens often leads to sharper, better-composed images. When you combine this with Fuji’s decision to remove the low-pass filter, you have the capability of getting top notch images out of the X100V.
Additionally, this camera uses an APS-C sensor, considerably larger than the sensor found in most point and shoot cameras. Larger sensors collect more light, giving you better image quality, especially in low light conditions.
The X100V also offers Fuji’s popular Fuji Advanced Filters to simulate the look of classic films (a system that works surprisingly well). It also offers a built-in neutral density filter to help control bright lighting conditions, a strong Macro mode, and an advanced hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder that lets you quickly switch between the two viewfinder methods.
Panasonic LX 100 II
Quick Specs:
- ISO Range: 200-25600 (Extended Mode: 100-25600)
- FPS: Up to 30
- Live View, 3″ 1240k-dot TFT LCD Touchscreen
- Optical Image Stabilization
- Weight: 12.31 oz
The Panasonic LX 100 II offers a lot of great features at a great price. The Four Thirds MOS sensor, while smaller than the Fuji’s APS-C sensor, is still larger than your typical point and shoot camera (or your cell phone’s camera sensor) and comes with many of the same benefits.
Despite a lower resolution (17MP), it can increase the image quality in low light conditions.This is possible as the sensor removes the optical low pass filter, which can render slightly sharper, more detailed images — albeit, often at the expense of false colour moiré and maze-like aliasing. These things combine to give you the capability of taking incredibly high quality pictures for a point and shoot camera.
Additionally, the LX 100 II sports a 24-74mm lens equivalent, matching perhaps the most popular professional zoom lens focal length. It has a quick autofocus, relatively fast bursts, and well placed controls, making shooting with the LX 100 II quite enjoyable.
Sony RX10 IV
Quick Specs:
- ISO Range: 100-12800 (Extended Mode: 64-12800)
- FPS: Up to 24
- Live View, 3.0″ Tilting Touchscreen LCD
- Built-In Image Stabilization
- Weight: 2.41 lbs
Technically speaking, the Sony RX10 IV falls under the “bridge camera” category rather than being a true point and shoot camera. Bridge cameras are larger and have a form factor more closely matching a DSLR, although the lens is not removable.
The Sony RX10 IV is also considerably more expensive than the other options in this section. However, you get a remarkable set of features in this camera. The camera sports an astounding 24-600mm equivalent lens with a relatively fast f/2.4-f/4.0 aperture, letting you better blur the background and shoot in low light. It also has optical image stabilization, fantastic autofocus, and improved shooting speeds over previous RX10 versions.
And if you want to shoot video, the RX10 IV offers 4K video with Sony’s S-Log color profiles for the most flexibility during editing.
Compact Interchangeable Lens Cameras
If you’re wanting something with more options than a point and shoot but aren’t ready for a full fledged DSLR type camera, there are a number of compact interchangeable lens cameras that will let you customize your setup. Many of these are, with good quality lenses, able to capture professional grade images.
These camera bodies are often relatively inexpensive, but keep in mind that you will need to pair them with separate lenses. However, you can choose just a lens that best suits what you shoot and gradually expand your selection over time as you find holes in your kit.
Sony a6600
Quick Specs:
- ISO Range: 100-32000 (Extended Mode: 100-102400)
- FPS: Up to 11
- Live View, 3″ Tilting Touchscreen LCD
- In-Body Image Stabilization
- Weight: 1.11 lbs
The newest in Sony’s a6600 line, the a6600 pulls many features from their full frame mirrorless lineup and gives them to you in a smaller package. The a6600 has a number of marquee features from their a7 series, such as Real-Time Eye AF, 5-axis in body image stabilization (IBIS), 11fps burst shooting, and silent shooting options. The 24.2MP APS-C sensor offers fantastic low light capabilities, rivaling (or even besting) many full-sized DSLRs.
For video shooters, the a6600 offers 4K S-Log video with no limits on clip length (aside from running out of battery life or storage on your memory card).
Overall the a6600 is a little bit more on the pricey side for many beginners, but you can also go back to earlier models such as the a6100 for incredible performance at deep discounts.
Fuji X-T30
Quick Specs:
- ISO Range: 160-12800 (Extended Mode: 80-51200)
- FPS: Up to 20 at 26.1MP (Up to 30 at 16.6MP)
- Live View, 3″ Tilting Touchscreen LCD
- Weight: 0.84 lbs
The Fuji X-T30 is a powerful APS-C camera that pulls many professional grade features from their higher end X-T3 but at a considerably lower price.
You get 26MP stills and DCI 4K video (with Fuji’s F-Log color profile), both with incredibly fast autofocus. Low light performance is very good, letting you take clean shots in challenging light conditions. And like the X100F point and shoot, the X-T30 also offers Fuji Film Simulations to recreate the looks of a variety of classic film stocks.
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
Quick Specs:
- ISO Range: 200 to 25600 (Extended: 100 to 25600)
- FPS: 8.7
- Live View, 3″ Tilting Touchscreen LCD 180 degrees
- 5-Axis Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization
- Weight: 11.82 oz
For a while, Micro Four Thirds (MFT) cameras were huge thanks to shockingly good performance from a tiny package. Their popularity has diminished as SLR style mirrorless cameras have become increasingly popular, but there are a few manufacturers continuing to develop the format.
Olympus’s OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a stellar MFT option. You get 20MP images and very good low light performance, particularly for such a small sensor (though larger sensor formats will almost always beat it out). It has a very good IBIS system and 4.5 fps burst shooting. For video, you get 4K and a flip-down touchscreen that lets you view it from in front of the camera.
One of the strengths of the Micro Four Thirds system is a wide range of lenses and accessories that are compatible with any MFT camera, regardless of the manufacturer.
Panasonic GX85
Quick Specs:
- ISO Range: 200 to 25600 (Extended: 100 to 25600)
- FPS: Up to 30
- 3.0″ 1.04m-Dot Tilting Touchscreen LCD
- 5-Axis Image Stabilization, Dual I.S.
- Weight: 0.84 lb
Along with Olympus, Panasonic is one of the manufacturers still pushing forward with Micro Four Thirds cameras. The GX85 (also called the GX80 in countries outside of North America) is another great option using the format.
With the GX85 you get 16MP stills and 4K video. It offers an intelligent Dual IS system that combines 5-axis sensor IS with lens based IS for more effective stabilization. The 49 point autofocus is quite good, and the lack of an anti-aliasing filter allows you to capture sharper images.
Canon EOS M50
Quick Specs:
- ISO Range: 100 to 25600 (Extended: 100 to 51200)
- FPS: Up to 10
- 3.0″ 1.04m-Dot Vari-Angle Touchscreen
- Combination 5-Axis Image Stabilization
- Weight: 4.59 oz
Canon’s EOS M50 is a great little mirrorless APS-C sensor camera (24MP) that gives great performance at a great price. It uses a unique EF-M mount, but supports adapters to use both EF and EF-S lenses, giving you the option to start using lenses common to higher end Canon DSLRs.
Perhaps one of the strongest points of this camera is the integration of Canon’s Dual Pixel Autofocus (DPAF) system with Eye Detection mode, one of the most well regarded AF systems available, for both still images and video up to 1080p resolution. You can also shoot 4K footage, but you do lose DPAF at that resolution. You also get a fully articulating touchscreen LCD, an enormously convenient feature.
While the M50 doesn’t offer IBIS, you can combine lens based IS with a digital IS system for decent stabilization.
DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras
If you want to have the most options and power in a camera, a DSLR or SLR style mirrorless is likely going to be the camera format of choice. These cameras offer the most powerful autofocus systems, often have larger sensors for better low light performance (and to help create better background blurs), and have lens options for just about any situation you might need.
Of course, once you get into this category, cameras have more features, and much higher price points. That said, camera manufacturers offer a wide range of cameras in this class, ranging from entry level to the most advanced professional cameras being made.
Below we look at a few great entry level options that are designed to be easily accessible for beginners while also offering great capabilities. And by going with an entry level model within a larger ecosystem, you get the opportunity to start building a lens collection that can carry over if you choose to upgrade to a higher level camera within that ecosystem.
Nikon Z50
Quick Specs:
- ISO Range: 100-51200 (Extended Mode: 100-204800)
- FPS: Up to 11
- Live View, 3.2″ Tilting Touchscreen LCD
- Digital stabilization (video only)
- Weight: 0.87 lbs
It’s no secret that SLR style mirrorless cameras are officially an entrenched part of every major camera maker’s lineup. For Nikon, the Z50 fills the role of entry level option.
Nikon is well known for having exceptional low light performance, and this camera is no exception. The Z50 has a 21MP APS-C sensor, which (particularly when put into a mirrorless form factor) allows it to be smaller and lighter than many similar cameras. You also get an incredibly powerful autofocus for the price point and 11 FPS burst shooting, making it capable of handling fast action such as when photographing sports or wildlife.
While video has been a weak point for Nikon in the past, the Z50 dramatically increases the video capability from earlier Nikon DSLRs with a very effective video autofocus system and the ability to shoot 4K up to 30 FPS.
Canon EOS RP
Quick Specs:
- ISO Range: 100-40000 (Extended Mode: 50-102400)
- FPS: Up to 5
- Live View, 3″ Fully Articulating Touchscreen LCD
- 12-pin electronic contact system for stabilization
- Weight: 1.07 lbs
Going head to head with the Z50 is Canon’s entry level option, the Canon EOS RP. Unlike the Z50, the RP offers a 26MP full frame sensor. Many photographers prefer full frame sensors because it allows you to achieve a narrower depth of field and blur backgrounds more easily. They also tend to have better low light performance, though real world comparisons between the RP and Z50 are very comparable when shooting in low light.
The RP takes full advantage of Canon’s DPAF system and offers a fully articulating touchscreen. The new R mount lenses are gaining a lot of enthusiastic attention, but they tend to be quite pricey. Fortunately, Canon offers a few fantastic adapters to use EF mount lenses, giving you access to a wide range of lens options.
Canon Rebel T8i
Quick Specs:
- ISO Range: 100-25600 (Extended Mode: 100-51200)
- FPS: Up to 7.5
- 3″ Articulating Touchscreen LCD
- Built-In Image Stabilization (Movie Electronic IS)
- Weight: 1.17 lbs
Canon’s Rebel lineup, including the most recent model, the Canon Rebel T8i, has been among the most popular beginner DSLRs for years. While none of these are as flashy as Canon’s high-end cameras, they are very well designed to be easily learned by beginners and are offered at extremely attractive price points.
One particularly nice factor is that they often benefit from technology trickling down from higher end models. The T8i, for example, benefits from the inclusion of a new conventional autofocus system introduced on the enthusiast level 80D.
The T8i offers a 24.2MP APS-C sensor with 7 FPS burst shooting. You don’t get IBIS, but there is an electronic (digital) IS when shooting video, which you can do in 4K. Like other Rebel models, the T8i is not only compatible with EF-S lenses (which are generally smaller and less expensive) but also all EF lenses, allowing you to use some fantastic lenses on this camera.
Nikon D7500
Quick Specs:
- ISO Range: 100-51200
- FPS: Up to 8
- Live View, 3.2″ Rear Tilting Touchscreen LCD
- Weight: 1.41 lbs
The Nikon D7500 (launched in 2017) improves upon its predecessor, the D5600 and while it’s starting to get a little bit older, it has become an amazing bargain thanks to price drops. Originally positioned as more of a mid-range option, the D5700 utilizes a 20.9MP APS-C sensor that offers fantastic low light performance for the price.
Like the Canon EF mount discussed above, this camera has a Nikon F mount, the same as Nikon’s top tier DSLRs, giving you the ability to use some of the best lenses available to Nikon with this camera.
For a DSLR, the D5700 boasts a compact package making it a great option if portability is important. With great autofocus, fantastic image quality (likely better than any other camera in its price point), and great battery life, it’s hard to beat this camera at this price. And unlike the D5600, the D5700 offers video for hybrid shooters. It lets you record rich and detailed 4K UHD in MP4 or MOV format. You can also shoot to an external recording device and to an in-camera SD card.
While these are all great options for entry level cameras, another possible approach is to consider an older model of DSLR camera. With some searching you can even find old professional grade cameras such as the original Canon 5d or the Nikon d700 for only a few hundred dollars. These will obviously be missing a lot of technological improvements that have been developed since their releases, but they’re still fantastic cameras that were used heavily by professional photographers for many years.
The camera market is huge, and there is an overwhelming number of options across a range of price points. It can be hard to know where to start looking for the best cameras for beginners. Fortunately, there are a number of cameras with features that will satisfy anyone looking for a beginner’s camera. If you are looking to move up from a cell phone into a dedicated camera, any one from this list will be a great option for you.
The best way to find the perfect camera for you is to get one in your hands and try it out. If you’re not ready to commit to a specific camera, rent one with BorrowLenses and get a real world feel for it.
*All quoted pricing is as of this writing and subject to change.
Mark Shastany
Mark has been passionate about photography for over ten years and has photographed subjects ranging from fine art landscapes and portraits to commercial and product photography. Mark studied photography at Parsons: The New School For Design and earned his Bachelor's of Fine Arts in Photography from the San Francisco Art Institute studying under photographic legends like Jack Fulton, Henry Wessel Jr, and Darcy Padilla.
87 Comments
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Lachy
I know I’m replying to a very old comment, but I think it was a great overview for someone who is just starting out. If someone reading this is so beginner that they don’t know how to turn a camera on, then they should probably do a bit of research first before they delve into looking at which camera to buy. Before someone goes looking for a camera, they should have an understanding of basic photography terminology, i.e. ISO, aperture, f-stop, white balance, FPS, focal length, sensor sizes, DSLR and mirrorless cameras to name a few, otherwise they’ll have no idea what they’re looking at when finding a camera to buy. There is plenty of information around on these topics, so it’s not hard to do a bit of self-research. This article is intended for beginners who have at least a basic understanding of a few of these principles. If this “technical jargon” as you put it, was not provided, how is this article going to be of any use, and how is a beginner going to be able to increase in their understanding of different cameras?
If you were to go so basic to accommodate for people who have absolutely no understanding of cameras, this article would be a mile long and not helpful for the majority of “beginners”. A few of the cameras on this list are great examples of affordable cameras that produce decent images and would be very suitable for a beginner. I’m not sure what your definition of an affordable camera is, but I’m sure most people would agree that none of the cameras on this list are super expensive. If someone just starting out is not prepared to pay for an “affordable” camera, then they might as well just use their mobile phone and forget about starting a new hobby. Sure there are cameras out there that are more affordable than the ones provided in this article, but at least this gives them a good starting point. -
MotorCut
It’s really a wonderful post. Thanks
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drop shadow photoshop
How do you take the perfect pictures of your kids? You need a camera that can capture their fun and energy in any environment, whether it be inside or out. When shooting indoors I recommend using natural light because artificial lighting tends to disturb skin tones and create strange shadows on faces. If this is not an option for you then try setting up lamps with low wattage bulbs next to windows so there is some ambient illumination while still being able to see what’s happening outside without needing huge lights like those found at professional studios which are very expensive but could also work if space permits them!
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Willie J. Ketter
Wow! Shoutout love! This is INCREDIBLY helpful, thank you guys!
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Anan
This is something that I was looking for.
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Debid Lee
OK!! I am looking to upgrade my Nikon 7500 (which was my first camera bundle purchase). I take a lot of sports photos, including indoor and outdoor. What would be the best camera for my money? Thanks!
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Amelia
Hey,
Great Stuff,
This is a really good guide not only for beginners but for everyone! I personally have the Canon EOS M50 which looks like a miniature DSLR feels robust, and the quality of the buttons and switches is top-notch. -
Justine Biber
I wanted to thank this blog owner for such a great article. Here is attached some best content for your audience
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I wait for your blogs because they are very interesting and there is also a very visual experience to gather information.
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Shahjalal
Good cameras tutorial for beginner I was lot of confusion before read the article but after read the tutorial I don’t have any confusion. thanks for sharing
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Jack
There is no better model. The choice between these two types of devices should only be made according to your use. The hybrid performs better but is bulkier due to its different purposes. The bridge is more compact and easier to use. To start taking pictures, it is better to use a bridge first, before moving on to more sophisticated cameras.
http://bestcamerapoint.com/ -
Moslem Uddin
This really helps! thank you… starting to save up and im looking around to see what would work best for me.
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Jisan P
Amazing Post, Thanks for Sharing this useful information
I also use Sony Cyber-shot RX100 III Camera for Photography . I suggest this camera is one of the best for beginners. -
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Sohel Rana
Thanks for sharing your information.I have benefited from reading your article.
Thank you very much. -
Priya Sharma
Great Post, Thanks for Sharing this useful information
I also use Sony Cyber-shot RX100 III Camera for Photography . I suggest this camera is one of the best for beginners -
Alex Jones
I am a professional photographer and filmmaker and personally feel that this list has almost every camera beginners can start with.
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Matthew Freeman
I hope I will rich enough to afford these. If you’re like me and on a budget, get the D3400 when they are on sale. Next, I’ll get the Nikon D750, and the photos I get with some post-production in Lightroom or Photoshop, to me, are perfect! https://clippingpathindia.com/blogs/tips/product-photography-best-cameras?_pos=1&_sid=5cb6fef3d&_ss=r#nikond750
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Drona
What a good content sir i love your content and i am your regular followers and i always read your content i never miss your content thanks for creating such a informative blog i hope you always write this type of blog
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Shelly J Roessler
Hi. I suggest a Nikon Coolpix B500! I have taken great pics with mine. Now I want to upgrade simply because I want longer range. The Coolpix has 40x Superzoom! It has worked great. I’m an amateur photographer but getting much better. My parents bought it for me for Christmas in 2018 so it was put on market in 2017. It is still for sale online. I recommend buying it with the kit. Not the kit with extra junk, but with carrying case, straps, batts, etc. The strap & case is fantastic. I’m amazed at some of the pictures I have taken of birds so far away. So if you really do not want to switch lenses anymore or just for now, etc, & just want a point & shoot super zoom, this is the camera for you. It goes for $300 approximately. It may be less by now…or should be…but no one has had anything bad to say abt it, so it’s worth the same original price. NIKON REALLY HAS BUILT A GREAT CAMERA! Mine came from Walmart online. I have ZERO complaints, only raving compliments. ONLY one thing I will say, not against the camera, just a warning of what not to do, so that you dont lose pic opportunities, or think something happened to camera etc……PLEASE dont use cheapo GENERIC batteries. I did twice and lost out on some great birds, because I was changing the stupid dollar store brand of batts out of camera. Grrrr. 🙁 Coolpix only likes good batteries, like Duricell. The screen tells you where batt strength is. With cheap batts, it can say 1/2 batt available, but it’s not. Cheapo batt even LIE to camera! Seriously! Camera wont turn on or if it does, and you photographing you FAVORITE BIRD, IMAGINE – Shutter button dint press down – at all. You try again, and again, your bird is raising his wings. You re-arrange batts, still…nothing!!! He flies away! I was scared.Yet I knew it was batteries. It was my stupidity cuz it happened before. !!! It happened 2 seperate times. And 2x it was batts. Ugh!!! Never ever again. Scary! Also, turn dial to “scene setting” at top and then go to menu next on screen and then set scene for “birds.” Its so awesome. The birds “setting” is 440mm. It also has Moon setting (to photograph the moon), etc and these scenes are only to set it for proper millimeter settings. It has faces, and other cool scene settings too. You can change Aperature, ISO, etc on this camera. Anyway. I know you wrote this awhile ago. But if it doesnt help you…I hope it helps someone! Bird photography is the best…at least to me. and butterflies too!And Sunflowers…Just a Few of my favorite things, and family but more than anything else is God, who gives is all of these things to enjoy and the cameras to photograph these things & events to remember! Amen! ⛪
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Ubaid Ullah
Sir. I want to buy sony a6600 for without rent for full time photography. How much price is?
Please reply i want to buy it for my blog.
https://techkhiladi.blogspot.com/2019/10/best-mirrorless-camera-under-500-dollars.html -
Steve Rogers
Recently I have bought a sigma camera from https://mktradingco.com/brand/sigma for 999 AED Is it worth for this price or not
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RateMyCamera
What a great list of some of the best cameras in the business. Good to see you’ve kept it updated.
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Bella
Which nikon or canon camera and lens is best for wildlife/action photography.
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Alexandria Huff
It’s great for the price. There are certainly cameras that have beefier specs but they will cost more. For an ultra beginner, the T100 is solid.
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Nico K.
Thank you guys for the article! The input really helped and brought my decision process a little bit further. I’am currently trying to find an entry level DSLR but I really don’t have too much of a budget. After reading this article I came across this article https://photographyimproved.com/best-dslr-under-300/ where they mentioned the Canon T100/4000D. But honestly I am not sure if they were praising the camera too much.
Would you guys recommend the Canon T100 or does anyone own it? -
Fatemeh
I’m looking for a good camera to start photography.
I’m a beginner and a teen and there is no good option less than 700$.
I really liked the Fuji xt10, if you think it’s really worth my money I would save for it. -
Roxie
Hello, I am a beginner with all things camera. I actually do the makeup and hair portion, but I would love to shoot my own subjects. This is something I very interested in and wanting to grow in. I have access to a studio and lighting, but I don’t want to spend a ton of money on a camera I won’t be able to operate. Please of someone could recommend a good beginner beauty shoot camera. Thank you
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Amal
Would you recommend any DSLR Pro Level Cameras, that cost 1000$ or less?
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Alexandria Huff
A lens that comes to mind that might be a good fit is the Nikon 16-80mm f/2.8-4 VR. It is designed for crop sensor cameras like your D3500, giving it a 24mm-120mm equivalent focal range. That is still wide enough for photographing dogs inside small spaces but also long enough to be useful to you while traveling or photographing dogs who are running around and are far away from you. Another thing about like about this zoom is that it is relatively fast. On the wide end, you can open your aperture as wide as f/2.8 and it only stops down to f/4 on the long end – which is pretty good for a telephoto. These apertures are wide enough for lower-light situations and for achieving lovely out-of-focus backgrounds. Also, it has Vibration Reduction, allowing you to use slightly slower shutter speeds while still preventing camera shake. This is helpful if you’re in a particularly low-lit environment. The minimum focusing distance of this lens is a little over a foot – so you can shoot fairly close to the animal if desired and still achieve focus. Lastly, it retails for under your budget of $1500. But I would rent it first to make sure it’s a good ergonomic fit for you: https://www.borrowlenses.com/product/Nikon-1680mm-f284E-ED-VR-Lens
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Darlene
What would you suggest for taking dog pics? I know it sounds weird but I take pics for a dog rescue and that helps these guys get adopted. I have a nikon dslr I think it is the 3500.
I wanted to upgrade but still keep reasonable price 1500. max -
Christian
I personally have been using a Nikon D3400 and am extremely happy with it as its not very heavy and is my first camera. It has treated me very well in the 5 months that I have had it and have gotten some professional level pics with it. For anyone wanting to start photography I recommend checking Amazon for refurbished package deals. I got one that had the camera, 2 lenses, cleaning kit, carry bag, camera strap, and a couple filters for retail price of just the camera and stock lens.
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Alexandria Huff
Are you using a camera that only takes AA batteries or one that doesn’t have a removable battery? These cameras listed all take Lithium Ion rechargeable batteries that are around 1000+ mAh (many camera batteries now are even upwards of 2000+ mAh). Rechargeable AA batteries are around that same capacity level, too, but discharge much more quickly and allow for fewer overall cycles. So you might not see a significant leap in shooting time, depending on the exact Li-On battery used, but it will have a relatively quick recharge time and have a longer shelf life.
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Sonya
I was wondering about battery consumption on these cameras? I have a Nikon that I would like to change because the batteries die very quickly and I cannot put rechargeable batteries in it…
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shantal
This really helps! thank you… starting to save up and im looking around to see what would work best for me.
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Marria
Hello borrowlenses,
Looking for a good digital video camera to record high school basketball for a team without breaking the bank. Any recommendations?
Thanks -
TN Args
Almost every camera on this 2018 list is utdated.
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Techwhippet
Hi borrowlenses,
This article is very much helpful. But still I have question on it should I ask here ? -
Mason
I want a camera that can take pictures like Actor: Cole Sprouse does, which camera you reccomend.
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Alexandria Huff
You’re in the right place. Just go to our main site: http://www.borrowlenses.com to get started! We ship to Hawaii.
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Heriberto Lausell Jr
hello, where can one rent cameras from? Im only working with my iphone right now (dont judge) lol, and am looking into getting a solid beginners camera. I like to shoot outdoors stuff. Right now I am in Hawaii so, beaches and mountains. Eventually I would like to shoot the nite sky as well as people. Can you help me out. There is so much information with so many words that I have not a clue what they mean. I would greatly appreciate it…
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Tony Beigle
I’m sorry, but I think you’re missing the point. The word is “beginner”. I know someone who doesn’t know how to turn her camera ON. Everyone is already using technical jargon, when the operative word is “beginner”. Doesn’t it make more sense to start with a lessor expensive piece of equipment BEFORE delving into complicated technical information? I mean, we’re talking about beginners. And to dump hundreds of dollars into something you’re really not sure of yet, because, again, you’re a beginner? I say less expensive at first…..see how things go…….and develop, possibly , to a more advanced camera.
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swaraj uplenchwar
hi your blog was very unique
but i wanted to know that how much mm lences should i take for landscapes and other still scenes
plz would you tell me -
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Gabe
Is this in American or Canadian dollars?
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Jen Smith
I am looking to upgrade my Canon T3i (which was my first camera bundle purchase). I take a lot of sports photos, including indoor and outdoor. What would be the best camera for my money? Thanks!
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monique
hello, i really love taking pictures but seem confused on a starter camera to buy esp as i dont know much abt cameras. pls help asap. tnc
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Mary Howard
Thanks Alexandria, I am looking for a larger zoom for small birds and wildlife.
I cannot justify spending much as will not use a lot. Around 1,000 to 2,000 Aust. $.
Thanks. -
Alexandria Huff
My personal favorite is the 100mm Macro – it’s also an excellent portrait lens, in general: https://www.borrowlenses.com/product/Canon_100mm_f2.8L_Macro
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Mary Howard
Hello all, I am a amature photographer. I lashed out 2 years ago and purchased a Canon 6D with a EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM as a kit. Also purchased a 2nd Canon 6D with a EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM.
I now want to purchase a lense for small bird photography but do not want to spend much.
Am tossing up on a super zoom just for this so I do not have to change lenses.
I know it sounds odd but open to all advise.
Thanks -
Alexandria Huff
Consider the Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8G AF-S DX IF-ED Lens (https://www.borrowlenses.com/product/Nikon_17-55mm_f2.8_AF-S_ED_DX). It has a fast maximum aperture and a nice middle-area zoom range for crop sensor format.
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Lindsay
What lens should I rent with the Nikon D3300??
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Chandler L. Walker
I just wanted to point out that the Nikon D3300 does not have an articulated back LCD screen.
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Ranganath M
Buying first DSLR will always create lot of confusions. Thanks for this detailed and useful information. It would be appreciated if you could take a look at my latest blog on Best DSLR camera for Beginners Entry Level at http://photopedia.in/best-dslr-camera-beginners-entry-level/ I have tried to explain what are the important key factors to consider while buying a new DSLR.
Dont forget to share your views on that.
Thank You
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Dan S.
The Canon 5D Mark III has been updated to the Mark IV. Even still, it’s kind of an expensive camera for beginners.
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Ramya Shiva
Photography Contest 2017. Win Up To USD 2000 . For Registration http://modelsagency.in/international-photography-contest-2017.html
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Alexandria Huff
The Rebel XSI is getting long in the tooth but if you love that line and are already used to it, I’d explore some of the newer Rebels, like the T5i or T6i. They are still within your price range but have improved a lot since 2008.
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Linh
What would you recommend for kid portrait, kid action and low light pictures? I am an amateur mom who loves taking picture of my kids. I have currently now Canon Rebel xsi but it is terrible in low light. Wanting to upgrade a better one but not spending thousand.
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Alexandria Huff
Definitely – some of the crop sensor DSLRs have hard-to-beat retail pricing. Great options for beginners and often not too bulky.
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Alexandria Huff
Agreed. I just got back from a trip with the a6300 and was infinitely impressed with its portability and quality – and cheaper to rent, to boot. Looking forward to trying the a6500 (https://www.borrowlenses.com/product/Sony-a6500). If you’re already a fan, this list of favorite E mount lenses might interest you: https://blog.borrowlenses.com/best-lenses-for-sony-a6300/
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Deborah J. Gracie
Those Sonys you listed Vin p may weight less (and I’m sure they do just looking at them; smaller size) and other specs you listed but they don’t beat the Nikon 3300 in price. Just checked B & H Photo and the Nikon is listed at $369 and the Sony a6000 is listed at $548 and the a6300 is over $1000. A bit pricey IMO for someone just starting out. I have both a Nikon and a Sony mirrorless I know so either company makes a quality product.
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Vin p
I’m sorry but you didn’t even include sony a6000 or a6300. This camera beats most of the list in terms of price, weight, quality and ease of use especially for beginners.
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MotorCut
Thanks for sharing this great information. I really like your post.