Photography is much more than just a hobby. This seemingly harmless occupation requires a decent investment, the bulk of which is spent on a good camera. Professional photographers who have made hobbies their main job, need expensive equipment that has not only high performance, but also includes a number of subtle, and often completely redundant functions and settings. For beginner photographers, however, it is important to focus on the actual needs, price, and durability of the camera. Now, we will consider cameras that meet these requirements.

For more our buying guides, take a look at the popular links: Full Frame Cameras, Mirrorless Cameras, Canon Lenses.

Camera For Beginner Photographers Reviews

Best Canon DSLR Cameras for Beginner Photographers

#1 Canon EOS 80D DSLR Camera

Canon-EOS-80D

Highlights of Canon EOS 80D:

24.2MP APS-C CMOS Sensor

3.0″ 1.04m-Dot Vari-Angle Touchscreen

Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 60 fps

The mid-range DSLR camera, which can be an excellent “training device” for beginners, is also not guaranteed to be lost among advanced gadgets. Learning the Canon EOS 80D Kit can go on for a very long time – sorting through all the possible modes and functions (especially if there is an extended set of lenses) can captivate novice photographers for several days. However, the result of such a “harsh” study can exceed all expectations: naturally talented photographers from among the novices from the first works can see impressive results.

But purely technically, the Canon EOS 80D does not bring anything new to the middle link. While other semi-budget cameras are equipped with the ability to shoot video in 4k, this model serves as a pass-through improvement of the earlier EOS 70D, and, alas, does not show anything else.

Advantages:

  • Availability of wireless connectivity with other devices
  • Good dynamic design at low ISO
  • The presence of a built-in interval timer (dedicated to fans of time-lapse photography).

Disadvantages:

  • Has a purely average technical capabilities
  • High price.

#2 Canon EOS 800D DSLR Camera

Canon-EOS-800D

Highlights of Canon EOS 800D:

DIGIC 7 Image Processor

3.0″ 1.04m-Dot Vari-Angle Touchscreen

ISO 51200 Built-In Wi-Fi with NFC, Bluetooth

Compared to classic DSLRs for beginners, the model clearly aspires to the big leagues. 45 points of the cross type are used by the camera to obtain perfect sharpness when aiming through the viewfinder.

There is no direct focus point selection. A swivel screen with an electronic level will not allow the horizon to fall, even if the photographer is shooting from an uncomfortable position. Settings can be controlled remotely via a smartphone with the Canon Camera Connect app. Important point: the location function is not available for this model.

The comments actively discuss the pros and cons of the device. Of the positive aspects, the transformation of the LCD into a full-fledged control element, high image quality at ISO up to 3200, 1080p video recording at 60 frames / sec in NTSC format are noted. In addition, there is a digital video stabilization mode and a 3.5 mm audio jack for an external microphone. There is no input for monitor headphones. There is also no dust and moisture protection.

#3 Canon EOS 1300D DSLR Camera

Canon-EOS-1300D

Highlights of Canon EOS 1300D:

Wi-Fi and NFC supported

18 MP APS-C CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4+

9-point AF with one center cross-type AF point

According to surveyors, this is an excellent representative of the “anti-crisis” DSLRs with the potential to exit amateur photography to a more serious level. The owner will be able to enthusiastically experiment with all the manual settings, shoot with a blurry background in moderately difficult conditions. After exploring the capabilities of the whale lens, you can switch to aperture optics and take a fresh look at the camera.

They say a lot on the network about the speed of work. Let the slow loading of information on the screen after activating the device do not bother you, the camera is ready to take it already half a second after turning it on (this already includes the time costs for autofocus).

With the proper reaction, you will not miss a single valuable dynamic shot. But here is another point: in the RAW format, a series of 7 shots is taken at a speed of 3 frames / sec., And then the clipboard is filled. You have to wait until the photos are saved on the memory card. There is a solution – shoot in JPEG at maximum quality.

#4 Canon EOS 200D Rebel SL2 DSLR Camera

Canon-EOS-200D-Rebel-SL2

Highlights of Canon EOS 200D Rebel SL2:

9-Point AF System

3″ 1.04m-Dot Vari-Angle Touchscreen LCD

Up to 5 fps Continuous Shooting Feature Assistant

The camera weighs only 450 g with parameters of 122.4 x 92.6 x 69.8 cm (length, width, height, respectively). The creators thoughtfully approached the development of a camera for beginners. This model gives the solution sought by newcomers at the beginning of their journey: the maximum set of technical capabilities at an affordable price.

The mirror device with a rotary touch screen supports NFC, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, shoots at a speed of 5 frames / sec., CMOS AF sensor smoothly tracks the video object. It’s nice to have these features and technologies from the world of professional photography on an amateur device.

The users also liked the new graphical interface. Colored icons tell you what effect you will achieve when adjusting the aperture and shutter speed. This greatly facilitates life at the training stage, and later you can switch to the standard view. There are models in black, white and silver on sale, so the DSLR can easily turn into a fashion accessory.

Best Nikon DSLR Cameras for Beginner Photographers

#5 Nikon D7200 DX-format DSLR Camera

Nikon-D7200

Highlights of Nikon D7200:

51 point autofocus system

EXPEED 4 image processing

6 frames per second (fps) shooting capacity

It implements time-lapse video or, in other words, “Time Lapse” – slow-motion frame-by-frame shooting with automatically set time intervals between frames. In this mode, auto-alignment of the exposure is available, which is important for many hours of shooting with changes in lighting.

The owner has the opportunity to record Full HD video 1920×1080 with a frequency of up to 60 frames / sec. The video settings are very conveniently located – this is a whole separate tab in the menu. For high-quality sound recording, you can attach an external microphone to the 3.5 mm jack, moreover, its sensitivity is manually adjusted in the camera menu.

If you choose a DSLR for years, this one is just suitable for complex operation – there is dust and moisture protection. Owners highlight a lot of subtle settings that confuse the beginner, but in the future they will serve as a space for creative experiments. Therefore, Nikon’s “semi-professional” is considered the best device with the prospect of development in the field of photo and video.

#6 Nikon D3500 DX-Format DSLR Camera

Nikon-D3500

Highlights of Nikon D3500:

No Optical Low-Pass Filter

24.2MP DX-Format CMOS Sensor

Native ISO 100-25600; 5 fps Shooting

The information screen is designed taking into account the needs of a novice photographer so that he comfortably gets used to the SLR camera. Several design themes are provided, a large icon for displaying the opening / closing of the aperture, highlighting of overexposed areas, a “?” Button with help and recommendations for a specific shooting situation in Guide mode. The “i” button takes you to the quick menu through which you can control the ISO, autofocus, white balance.

The 1230 mAh EN-EL14a battery has proven itself very well. The claimed 1,550 frames on a single charge are confirmed by practice, while users do not deny themselves either in long series or in the use of the built-in flash and Live View mode, as well as quietly connect to a smartphone via a wireless interface. Commentators also note a wide range of photo processing capabilities right in the device: brightness, effects, cropping, correcting distorted perspectives, etc.

#7 Nikon D5300 CMOS DSLR Camera

Nikon-D5300

Highlights of Nikon D5300:

39 point AF system with 3D tracking

5 frames per second continuous shooting

3.2 inches Vari angle LCD with 1,037,000 dots

The amateur level camera, created in the image of the D3300. Despite the already brilliant ergonomics of the aforementioned camera, the Nikon D5300 Body was further developed, fortunately, not for the worse. The main changes affected the internal filling and related technical characteristics. The resolution of the new matrix was 24.78 megapixels, which clearly indicates an internal corporate struggle for every hundredth of a pixel in order to improve the final result of the photo. Painstaking work on the balance of settings is designed for the same effect in order to enhance color reproduction and related aspects.

Another qualitative leap was made in the “weak link” area of ​​all budget-mid-range DSLRs from Nikon: good sensitivity finally allows shooting at ISO 1600, bypassing grain size and loss in quality. Given this amount of useful work, buying a Nikon D5300 Body can be a great investment.

Advantages:

  • Adjustment of the sensitivity of the matrix and the opportunity for High-quality shooting at ISO 1600
  • The presence of a time lapse function
  • High quality photos.

Disadvantages:

  • All the same slow mode Live View.

#8 Nikon D610 CMOS FX-Format DSLR Camera

Nikon-D610

Highlights of Nikon D610:

39 point AF system (9 cross type)

2,016 pixel RGB TTL metering sensor

ISO 100 6400 expandable up to 25,600

A full-frame CMOS sensor 24×36 mm with a resolution of 24 megapixels is mounted in the camera. In combination with the Expeed 3 processor, this guarantees high image detail and minimal ISO noise of up to 3200. The large matrix makes it possible to flexibly work out the depth of field in the frame, and this is a big plus for portrait scenes.

Working with a pair of SD-drives opens up additional opportunities for the photographer: you can configure the data recording one by one, as the media is full, or in parallel on two flash drives. And you can also spread the JPG record to one card, and RAW to the next one to extract everything you need from the frames.

Positive impressions in the reviews are centered around the ergonomic body, high quality viewfinder and a quiet video shooting mode. Relative disadvantages include large dimensions, but for full-frame SLR devices this is a variant of the norm. You will also have to get used to the features of autofocus: its points are grouped close to the center of the frame.

Best DSLR Cameras of Other Brands for Beginner Photographers

#9 Pentax KP Ultra-Compact Weatherproof DSLR Camera

Pentax-KP-Ultra-Compact

Highlights of Pentax KP:

Smart Function Exchangeable Grip

PRIME IV Engine with Accelerator Unit

24.3MP APS-C AA-Filterless CMOS Sensor

At Pentax we see the most respectful approach to customers and ergonomics. The manufacturer complements the set with three interchangeable pads-handles of different configurations, so that every photographer can adapt the case to his hand. To do this, you only need a hex key and a minute of free time. A lot of installation options in the menu, a large number of functional buttons on the camera – a guarantee of fun for fans of the brand and photography enthusiasts.

The matrix was “brought” to ISO 819 200: by itself, at maximum photosensitivity values, the picture will be noisy. The thing is different – you get the highest quality at medium and low shutter speeds. From the reviews it follows that on a PC monitor, noise clearly shows itself with ISO6400, and photo printing on A3 format shows a decent picture even with ISO 12800. Landscape lovers will like the automatic horizon alignment function: the matrix can adjust the angle of inclination to 1.5⁰.

#10 Pentax K-70 Weather-Sealed DSLR Camera

Pentax-K-70-Weather-Sealed

Highlights of Pentax K-70:

Anti-Aliasing Filter Simulator

PRIME MII Image Processor

3.0″ 921k-Dot Vari-Angle LCD Monitor

One of the most interesting features of a DSRL camera is the viewfinder – it displays 100% of the frame area. The field of view is slightly darkened, which seems to be an advantage in bright lighting and a relative lack of darkness. The manufacturer claims that he used a hundred seals for the magnesium case, so the DSLR camera withstands even the conditions of tropical rain.

Now about the main thing – the quality of photos. Implemented Pixel Shift Resolution technology with a movable matrix mount. Thus, stabilization of the picture and the highest clarity in all details are achieved.

To get an ultra-sharp frame, the camera “stitches” 4 images – the result is sharp and more voluminous. Users suggest that you get the perfect effect when shooting statics: objects, architecture, landscapes, especially in combination with a tripod, self-timer, remote control and mirror lock.

#11 Sony Alpha a68 DSLR Camera

Sony-Alpha-a68

Highlights of Sony Alpha a68:

Wide & Fast AF system

SteadyShot INSIDE Image Stabilization

Sophisticated AF algorithm in tracking

Some users claim that the redesigned version of the Alpha ILCA-77 Kit series camera is still professional, although it lacks many key features. In fact, the lite version of the device is a device of a completely different level, closer to beginners or amateurs than to true masters of photography.

As with all Sony models, the Alpha ILCA-68 Kit clearly distinguishes all the characteristic features of the proprietary device – this is a small 2.7-inch rotary screen, and a reduced width dimension, and thus a lightweight body, which adds convenience when taking pictures.

By the way, you can shoot high-quality photos with an ISO value of up to 1600 and only in jpeg format. If here the noise reduction still works somehow, that in the RAW format, which is more convenient for subsequent processing (and storage), it is completely absent. 24 megapixel resolutions are implemented perfectly – with the right settings, you can achieve an excellent balance of color depth and naturalness, which is so lacking in many competitive cameras.

Best Mirrorless Camera for Beginner Photographers

#12 Sony Alpha ILCE-6000 Mirrorless Camera

Sony-Alpha-ILCE-6000

Highlights of Sony Alpha ILCE-6000:

3.0″ 921k-Dot Xtra Fine Tilting LCD

Tru-Finder 0.39″ 1,440k-Dot OLED EVF

24.3MP APS-C Exmor APS HD CMOS Sensor

Let’s start with the main advantage of a mirrorless camera, namely, the shooting speed, which reaches 11 frames / sec. Mirror counterparts at a similar price are simply not able to give such indicators.

More – more: Sony engineers created the “open” E mount, that is, third-party optics developers can develop fully compatible lenses. The working segment of the bayonet mount is very small, only 18 mm, which means that with the adapter any optics from your arsenal will work.

4D focus, which replaced the contrast autofocus, was a real breakthrough in mirrorless technology. Its essence lies in the improved operation of automation, immediately in 4 dimensions. 179 phase detection sensors interact with the object, which cover 92% of the width and 91% of the frame height, the distance to the subject is also controlled, and the future direction of movement in the next second is taken into account. Tracking focus works perfectly with a trajectory of movement of any complexity. The best choice for dynamic scenes.

#13 Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III Camera

Olympus-OM-D-E-M10-Mark-III

Highlights of Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III:

Micro Four Thirds System

Dual Quad-Core TruePic VIII Processor

UHD 4K30 Recording; Clips Video Mode

The device is small and comfortable, the grip is thought out to the smallest detail: three fingers of the right hand rest on the front part, and on the opposite side for the thumb an expressive protrusion is provided. The control wheels remained as large as on older models – a very practical move.

The camera does not far exceed the smartphone in size and weight, fits in a pocket and a handbag, even with a long excursion the owner will not experience discomfort from carrying. The regular M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm f / 3.5-5.6 EZ lens is a miniature “pancake”, that is, the diameter exceeds the length.

In the Advanced Photo menu, beginners will try their hand at collage mode (stitching several frames), Live Time (shooting with shutter speed “by hand”), multiple exposure (series of photos and sequential overlapping), HDR (extended dynamic range), silent shooting (only electronic shutter), panorama, distortion correction, focus bracketing (expanding the depth of field).

#14 Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless Camera

Canon-EOS-M50

Highlights of Canon EOS M50:

24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor

2.36m-Dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder

3.0″ 1.04m-Dot Vari-Angle Touchscreen

The main advantage of the new DIGIC 8 processor is the ability to record video in 4K format (3840×2160 pixels at 25 frames / sec.). Note that this is not a flagship model, but a technique for amateurs at an adequate price. There is an autofocus function for the eyes, but it only works with still people, in classic portrait shooting, for example. In general, there are 3 methods of autofocus: zonal, at the selected point and tracking the subject.

An annoying trifle is called by the owners of the inability to recharge the battery via USB, for this purpose a network charger is used. Lightweight polycarbonate body and compact dimensions allow you to carry the model even in your hands, even in your jacket pocket.

The buyer can choose from two color versions: in the usual black design and expressive white color with gray accents. The light unit looks non-standard and attracts the attention of passers-by, especially if combined with a branded silver lens.

#15 Fujifilm X-T100 Mirrorless Digital Camera

Fujifilm-X-T100

Highlights of Fujifilm X-T100:

2.36m-Dot 0.62x OLED EVF

3.0″ 1.04m-Dot Tilting Touchscreen LCD

UHD 4K/15p and Full HD 1080/60p Video

Introducing a camera stylized as a classic film technique. At the heart of the “carcass” is plastic, and on top is aluminum with anodized coating of black, gold or black and silver. Aesthetes will definitely be satisfied with the appearance of the device. The electronic viewfinder has a diopter adjustment wheel so that photographers with problem vision do not experience discomfort.

All mirrorless “Fujifilm” have built-in presets (saved sets of settings) with an imitation of the legendary branded film. It is very interesting to experiment with the simulation of the film effect in the photo and video mode; the variations are PROVIA / STANDARD, VELVIA / VIVID, ASTIA / SOFT, CLASSIC CHROME, PRO Neg Hi, PRO Neg. Std, Sepia and Five Monochromes.

Conclusion: despite the vintage “atmosphere”, the device is quite accessible to the understanding of the new generation with their love for smartphones, blogs and video broadcasts. Auto mode and story programs produce a very decent result.

How to Choose the Best Camera For Beginner Photographers

If you are a beginner photographer, we recommend that you pay attention to the following key parameters of the camera:

  • Type of: Many masters of photography complain that compact digital cameras are ideal for beginners, the development of which is much easier than studying DSLRs. However, the opposite is also true: if you once learn how to work with SLR cameras, then in the hands of the photographer will be a device with a large set of functions and settings that are not available to digital analogues.
  • Cost: This factor should not be overlooked, since the price inextricably follows the choice of model. It so happened that digital cameras are much cheaper than SLR cameras, even if they have comparable (or superior) parameters. However, the latter give greater freedom of creativity, which is a decisive factor in determining the type and price range
  • Availability of reference data: Recently, most SLR cameras are equipped with a built-in directory function, thereby making life easier for beginners in the photo world. If you are one of these – look for a model with the presence of such a “chip.”
  • The physical dimensions of the matrix: You should not give much attention to a clever advertising trick about megapixels, since this function is not so important in DSLRs. It is much more important to delve into what dimensions the matrix has – the larger its dimensions (even with a resolution of 10 megapixels, which are enough for a high quality photo), the better the color reproduction, higher sensitivity and less noise even at high ISO values.
  • Zoom: The camera for beginners should have at least 3x zoom, as well as the ability to change lenses. These factors will significantly expand the capabilities of the photographer, at least several times.
  • Battery life: Even professionals sometimes need to take several frames in order to achieve the desired effect from photography. Beginners often encounter problems with the first frame, so autonomy, which determines the number of possible shots with one full battery charge, is one of the key parameters.
  • The presence of automatic settings: At the very beginning of using a SLR, it will be very difficult for the user to navigate in the settings. Therefore, preference should be given to cameras with ready-made parameters for various types of shooting, whether it be a landscape, portrait or sport.
  • Autofocus and exposure detection: The implementation of these two functions in automatic mode will significantly simplify the process of taking a photo for a beginner.

Final Thoughts

I hope you have found the best camera for yourself after this tutorial. If you would like to comment, notice that the article content has not been updated in time, or suggest a camera I did not include, please use our contact form to stay in touch.

Have fun and good luck!

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