Buzz
Today, smartphones often boast high resolutions and stunning image quality. However, if you want to delve deeper into photography, upgrading to a dedicated camera is still necessary. Larger sensors, versatile lenses, and manual controls are factors that help you express your creativity.
The Canon EOS Rebel SL2 boasts high image quality, natural colors, and a plethora of lens options for seamless upgrades. Like all Canon DSLRs, it supports video recording but falls short of HD resolution.
1.2. Nikon D3500
If you prefer Nikon over Canon or seek a more budget-friendly option, the Nikon D3500 could be an excellent choice. It's the most affordable DSLR on the market, featuring a special Guide Mode to optimize settings based on your photographic preferences.
The D3500 offers a sizable 24.3-megapixel sensor with commendable low-light performance, highly praised by users. Additionally, Nikon's camera integrates a built-in flash, shoots at 5 frames per second, and allows HD video recording. However, due to its lower price compared to Canon, the D3500 lacks a flip screen, touchscreen controls, and 4K video support.
2. Best Mirrorless Cameras for Beginners
2.1. Fujifilm X-T100
The Fujifilm X-T100 exudes a luxurious retro style and delivers stunning image quality. Fujifilm X-T100's JPEG format is renowned for its classic feel, reminiscent of vintage photographs.
Its APS-C 24.2-megapixel sensor dwarfs the typical resolution of a smartphone by 14 times. Featuring a tilting screen, customizable dials, and integrated Wi-Fi for quick photo sharing. Additionally, you can opt for the intelligent 4K shooting mode; capture some 4K videos and later extract favorite frames in 8-megapixel quality.
2.2. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III features a slightly smaller micro 4/3 sensor compared to other DSLRs and mirrorless cameras. However, it compensates with its premium design, beautiful image quality, and ease of control.
Despite its compact size, the in-body image stabilization works with all lenses and supports low-light shooting. Its 16-megapixel resolution may seem relatively low, but still delivers high-quality images. What's best about this camera line is its selection of over 100 lenses to choose from. Hence, the E-M10 proves to be the best camera for beginners, accompanying and evolving with you.
3. Best Viewfinder Cameras: Panasonic Lumix TZ90
If you're seeking an upgrade from a smartphone camera to a dedicated non-DSLR camera, then the Panasonic Lumix TZ90 is the best choice. Depending on your region, this camera is also known as ZS70.
The TZ90 features a 20.3-megapixel sensor, a large 30x zoom with optical image stabilization, a touchscreen, Wi-Fi, and 4K video recording. Manual controls will enable you to learn and master photography.
4. Best Full Frame Camera for Beginners: Sony Alpha A7
Full frame cameras typically come with high prices, limiting them to professionals and true photography enthusiasts. However, the Sony Alpha A7 is one of the most affordable full frame cameras you can buy. While not the latest model, with a sensor at least 2.5 times larger than other cameras on this list, the image quality of the Sony Alpha A7 is considered unmatched.
Sony's camera line boasts a 24.3-megapixel resolution, 16-bit image processing capability, support for HD video at 60p and 24p, and integrated Wi-Fi. It's also incredibly compact, being 25% smaller and 50% lighter than other full-frame cameras, while still including a tilting screen and moisture resistance.
5. Best Camera for Beginners in Sports Photography: Fujifilm X-T3
The Fujifilm X-T3 is robust enough to meet the demands of sports photography. It stands out as one of the best mirrorless cameras, offering professional-grade performance: Instant autofocus, able to focus on the subject in just 0.06 seconds, and a shooting mode of 30 frames per second.
Moreover, the Fujifilm X-T3's battery will help you capture nearly 400 photos on a single charge. You can also take 26.1-megapixel stills and shoot 4K video. The ergonomic design includes an array of accessible dials, so you can adjust settings without taking your eyes off the viewfinder. Additionally, the camera allows you to shoot in wet weather conditions without compromising image quality.
6. Best Camera for Beginners in Wildlife Photography: Sony RX10 IV
Wildlife photography demands a very long lens, which can cost thousands of dollars when equipped on a DSLR or mirrorless camera. The Sony RX10 IV comes with a built-in long lens and is the best choice for beginners.
Essentially, the RX10 IV is a fixed-lens camera, but that doesn't hinder its ability to capture wildlife. Sony's line features a 25x zoom lens, extending up to an impressive 600mm. The autofocus speed is also super-fast at just 0.03 seconds. Its 1-inch, 24.1-megapixel sensor produces highly detailed images, while the ability to shoot 24 frames per second will help you capture even the smallest movements of wildlife. Moreover, with its weather-sealing, you can shoot in any weather condition without worrying about damage or compromising image quality.
7. Camera for Beginners in Travel Photography: Sony RX100 IV
As a premium compact camera, the RX100 IV features a 1-inch, 20-megapixel sensor, an excellent F1.8-2.8 lens for low-light conditions, a 3x zoom, and fast autofocus. It's also suitable for video recording: 4K or HD slow motion, with speeds up to 960 frames per second. And due to its compact size of 4 x 2.3 x 1.6 inches, you can easily slip the camera into your travel bag and take it everywhere.
With 6 models in the RX100 series, you have options that fit your budget. If you desire a camera with a higher zoom range, consider the Sony RX100 VI.
8. Best Camera for Beginners in Street Photography: Ricoh GR II
The Ricoh GR II is a popular camera among street photographers. It combines understated style with high-quality output. Another strength of the GR II is its extremely affordable price.
With a fixed lens, featuring a 28mm focal length similar to your smartphone, but still leading the pack in performance today, the GR II remains a top-notch dedicated camera. Its 16.2-megapixel sensor is significantly larger physically, producing more detailed images with much better low-light performance. You can focus quickly, control manually. The GR II supports capturing 300 photos per charge, integrates Wi-Fi, and records HD video.
9. Best Camera for Vlogging: Sony Alpha a6400
Designed for vloggers, the Sony Alpha a6400 delivers the perfect blend of still photography and professional video recording. Sony claims their camera has the world's fastest autofocus speed, at just 0.02 seconds. Additionally, the Alpha a6400 also features wide coverage autofocus points across about 84% of the 24-megapixel sensor. Eye tracking ensures sharp images even when your subject is in motion.
For video recording, the device has a 180-degree tilting screen and high-quality output. You can record 4K video at bit rates up to 100Mbps.
Once you've chosen the perfect camera for beginners, you can dive right into fantastic ideas to enhance your photography skills. Depending on your purpose, make precise decisions to avoid wastefulness as you embark on your photography journey.
