If you're looking for the best camera to start your photography journey, then you've come to the right place. To save you time, I've scoured the list to find the best options for amateur photographers!
Looking at cameras, lenses, and all of the other accessories can seem daunting and maybe even a bit expensive. But, this new career path or hobby doesn't have to break the bank.
Remember, choose a camera that will be simple enough to learn its features but also affordable. Look for something that has automatic and manual modes. Either way, as long as you step out of the comfort zone of your smartphone or a simple point-and-shoot, you will find what is right for you.
So, what should you be looking for?
• Price: This is usually a concern for many people, especially beginners who don't want to splurge too quickly. Although I'll list affordable cameras, I'll refrain from listing 'cheap' cameras.
• Interchangeable Lenses: This one's a sneaky cost. The lens your camera comes with (also called the kit lens) will only get you so far. You will want to invest in other lenses.
• Ease of Use: You'll want a camera with minimal controls to keep your frustrations at bay. You want something with automatic modes until you feel comfortable. After you feel satisfied with the automatic modes, you'll like to learn more about manual modes.
• Video: Video has become increasingly popular through social media. So having the capability to record 4k video is a plus.
Alright, now that that's out of the way, let's get to the list:
Nikon Z 50 Mirrorless Digital Camera with 16-50mm Lens
This camera is a great start when it comes to mirrorless cameras. It creates a fantastic quality of images and is affordable.
SPECS:
Type: Mirrorless
Sensor: APS-C
Megapixels: 20.9MP
Lens mount: Nikon Z (DX)
Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity
Max burst speed: 11 fps
Max video resolution: 4K
PROS:
• 209 Point Hybrid Phase Detect Autofocus System
CONS:
• LCD screen tilts down.
The camera is really small, tough, and simple to use. Connect to your phone. This camera also allows you to access more advanced features.
Canon EOS M50 Mark II Content Creator Kit
This camera is excellent and affordable for beginners.
SPECS:
Type: Mirrorless
Sensor: APS-C
Lens mount: Canon EF-M
Screen: 3in vari-angle touchscreen, 1,040k dots
Max burst speed: 10fps
Max video resolution: 4K UHD
PROS:
• Electronic Viewfinder.
• Very affordable.
• Touchscreen
CONS:
• 4k Video is lacking.
Compared to its counterpart, the Canon EOS M50, this one has improved autofocus. Although the 4k video is lacking, it is a 1080p and, this camera also offers the ability to live stream direct to Youtube. On the flip side, it does provide a fantastic 24.1MP sensor and 10fps shooting.
FUJIFILM X-T30 Mirrorless Digital Camera with 15-45mm Lens (Black)
Welp, if you have some money to spare, then this is another phenomenal option. It's sleek and shoots 4k video and stills.
SPECS:
Type: Mirrorless
Sensor: APS-C
Megapixels: 26MP
Lens mount: Fujifilm X
Screen: 3.0-inch Tilt LCD Monitor
Video Recording: 200Mbps H.264 MOV
ISO: up to 51200
User level: Beginner/Intermediate
PROS:
• Touchscreen at 3 inches.
• Light camera without bulk.
CONS:
• It sells out quickly!
This camera does offer a vintage look with a new school feel. The Fujifilm X-T30 also comes with double the resolution compared to other big brands. Not only is it an excellent option for photos but, it also shoots 4k video and 26-megapixel stills.
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV Mirrorless Digital Camera with 14-42mm Lens (Black)
This Olympus is compact with impeccable performance and at a great value.
SPECS:
Type: Mirrorless
Sensor: Micro Four Thirds
Megapixels: 20.3
Lens mount: MFT
Screen: 3-inch 180-degree tilting touchscreen, 1,037k dots
Viewfinder: EVF, 2,360k dots
Max shooting speed: 8.7fps
Max video resolution: 4K UHD
User level: Beginner/intermediate
PROS:
• This camera offers the latest 20MP sensor.
• 5-axis in-body stabilization.
CONS:
• The MFT sensor is a bit smaller than APS.
• This camera has a plastic build.
The Olympus comes out with a home run with their new flip-down and tiltable monitor. With the 4k video capability, this camera can do it all and is great for amateur photographers. It's so easy to carry around! Did I mention how compact it is?
Sony ZV-E10 Mirrorless Camera with 16-50mm Lens
If you're ready to take the next step as a vlogger, this cute yet powerful camera is the way to go.
SPECS:
Type: Mirrorless
Sensor: APS-C
Megapixels: 24.2MP
Lens: Sony E mount
LCD: Vari-angle
Viewfinder: None
Maximum continuous shooting speed: 11fps for 116 JPEGs
Max video resolution: 4K 30p
User level: Enthusiast
PROS
• Autofocus features and performance.
• Vari-angle screen
• Cutest little clip-on wind muffler
CONS
• Doesn't have in-body stabilization.
• No viewfinder
As we all know, cameras aren't just for photography. Many mirrorless and DSLR cameras have the capabilities to take video. If becoming an influencer through vlogging is your thing, then a camera like this will be your jam. It may lack some photography essentials, but the 4k video and fully-vari-angle screen make it all worth it. Did you notice the cute little pom on top? Well, that cute little puffball is a clip-on muffler. This muffler helps the well-performing internal microphone.
Nikon Z fc Mirrorless Digital Camera with 16-50mm Lens
This retro-looking camera comes with a powerful punch.
SPECS:
Type: Mirrorless
Sensor: APS-C CMOS
Megapixels: 20.9MP
Monitor: 3.2-inch tilting, 1.04m dots
Continuous shooting speed: 11fps
Viewfinder: EVF, 2.36m dots
Max video resolution: 4K UHD at 30p
User level: Beginner/enthusiast
PROS:
• Sleek and clean design.
• Easy to use dial controls
CONS:
• No UHS-II support
This sweet-looking mirrorless camera is so easy to use while looking cool. It's very similar to the Nikon Z50, except it has extra features. If the retro aesthetic calls your name, then you'll immediately be drawn to this camera. Although it comes with a hefty price tag, the features will make up for it.
As you've noticed, I included recommended kits (camera and lens) with each camera suggestion. You can always buy the body only but purchasing a kit is usually more cost-effective.
Hopefully, this list will help you make your decision on which camera to purchase. Depending on your needs and budget, every camera offers its pros and cons.
