Buying yourself a new camera can be a pretty exciting thing. Regardless of whether you’re upgrading from your current smartphone camera or just simply feel like getting your hands on a manual DSLR to see if photography is a path you want to take. But with so many options to choose from in the market, how do you know which one will fit you best? Not to worry! For our article today, we will be guiding you on how to buy the best cameras for beginners this 2021.
From knowing the different types of cameras in the market to learning the things you need to consider, you’ll surely have an idea of how to buy your first manual camera by the end of this article. Just keep scrolling to find out more.
The Rise Of Smartphone Cameras & Why A Manual Camera Is Still Worth Investing On
As you already know, smartphone cameras have come to a point where they can easily go toe to toe with some of the best mid-range manual cameras in the market.
Nowadays, smartphones are capable of having 48MP cameras as well as shooting high-res videos at 4K. This even surpasses the quality of a lot of manual cameras in the market, making them almost feel obsolete.
So it’s pretty understandable if some of you may still be on the fence about whether it would be good to invest in a dedicated camera or stick with the one your smartphone provides. After all, smartphone cameras provide a certain convenience these manual cameras don’t.
For example, manual cameras are mainly used for taking pictures, while the former is built into an all-in-one device. This means you don’t have to carry a separate gadget with you every time you want to take a photo. Additionally, smartphone cameras are just much easier to use in general. They don’t have these complicated setting options you really need to properly set in order to get the photo you want.
And because of these very reasons, the camera industry has seen a significant decrease in demand these past years. It has come to a point where some people have ultimately quit buying cameras and don’t see them as worthy of investing in anymore.
It’s very rare nowadays to see someone anticipating the next release from Canon or Nikon the same way you would see people get excited about Apple‘s new releases every year.
So Are Cameras Still Worth It?
While it’s true that you can get away with taking a perfectly good photo with your current smartphone camera) if you’re really serious about your photography and you want an authentic experience of honing your skills and growing as a photographer, nothing will beat holding a manual camera in your hands.
The majority of people nowadays prefer smartphone cameras since they’re readily embedded into their main devices. However, professional photographers are unlikely to utilize a smartphone to record and shoot professional events, commercials, or films.
Meanwhile, cameras like DSLRs offer the advantage of longevity and versatility to let your creativity shine so you can get different results for your photos. Of course, smartphones have these too but they’re frequently done with the help of certain apps.
All in all, manual cameras are sure to last you for decades. You can also easily just swap out certain parts if you want an upgrade such as the lenses and there’s no need to completely throw out your current unit if you’re on a budget. On the other hand, you can’t really do the same thing with a smartphone camera and you’ll be wanting to upgrade the model every 3-5 years or so.
Why You Should Pick A Beginner-Friendly Camera
Just like any other hobby we pick up or just starting to take interest in, we usually test the waters first by starting small and avoid investing too much in case it turns out to be something we’ll not be doing in the long run. The same logic can be applied to photography.
Some might get excited at the prospect at first and even dive headfirst into taking as many pictures as you want without really taking into account the technicalities that come with it. There’s nothing wrong with this but after a while, you might ask yourself if this is something you truly enjoy or are you simply following a trend?
So in order to avoid wasting or spending too much money on professional-grade cameras before you’re ready for them or have decided that photography will be a long-term hobby of yours, let me tell you why buying an entry-level camera model will be more beneficial to you as a beginner.
The term “beginner” might mean different things to different people. To some, it may imply a complete lack of knowledge in photography. Which in this case, you’ll want to stick with entry-level cameras that offer plenty of manual choices for you to experiment with as your skills improve over time.
Aside from that, entry-level cameras are also generally a lot cheaper compared to other cameras that were made specifically for professionals or veteran photographers. Not only this helps you save money, but it also prevents you from feeling guilty for investing too much or wasting resources in case you realize that photography isn’t something you want to do in the long run.
The term “DSLR” stands for digital single-lens reflex which refers to the fact that it uses a single lens for shooting and focusing on your subjects.
Internal mirror mechanisms are built into DSLRs, allowing you to use an optical viewfinder. When it comes to capturing shots, photographers prefer to use this viewfinder rather than the LCD screen provided by the camera.
Due to their rugged builds, DLSR cameras are also generally more durable and weatherproof than other types of cameras you’ll see in the market. Though this can also vary depending on the model.
The DSLR used to be and still is, the professional camera standard. It’s one of the most popular varieties of cameras on the market, and it’s frequently utilized by professional photographers all over the world. If you frequently go to a lot of social or professional events, you’ll often see this type of camera used by photographers or journalists in their line of work.
In some aspects, mirrorless cameras are similar to DSLRs. They have interchangeable lens mounts that can be swapped out whenever you want. But in exchange for the ability to build this type of camera more compact and lighter than your average DSLR, mirrorless cameras forego the mirror system that allows for an optical viewfinder.
Mirrorless cameras are also the most popular type of camera nowadays, They’re trendy and sport an aesthetic that a lot of younger people gravitate to. So if DSLRs are a little too bulky or complicated for your taste, mirrorless cameras may be a better option. They’re more portable and have smaller bodies so they won’t take up as much room in your bag.
The traditional method of photography is with a film camera. This type of camera is usually inexpensive. But they also don’t have as many options for customization as you would with a digital camera like DSLRs or mirrorless cameras.
Film cameras demand more effort and time than digital cameras. Wherein the latter allows you to see the outcomes of your images immediately after hitting the shutter button. On the other hand, film cameras use film rolls, which run out after a set number of photographs are taken.
Afterward, you can take your film rolls to a picture developer and have them processed for you to get a physical copy of your pictures.
Instant Film
Instant film cameras are similar to film cameras, except they print your images in a couple of seconds. They produce what is popularly known as “polaroids“.
This type of camera also uses a specific film roll that only allows you to capture a certain number of images. But unlike your regular film camera, instant film cameras can create photographs shot after shot. These models are also very popular among teenagers. They’re fun, easy to use, and great for memorabilia purposes.
Compact Cameras
This type of camera is also called “point-and-shoot-cameras”. These types of cameras have fixed lenses that cannot be changed or swapped out. So you’ll either be stuck with a zoom lens that covers a specific focal range, or a fixed-focal-length “prime” lens that focuses on quality.
Additionally, a lot of people find this type of camera outdated. But before smartphone cameras were a thing, this was the most popular type of camera among the masses.
The models in this category of cameras were cheap and did an adequate job of taking photographs. However, because of the tremendous rise in the popularity of smartphones, their subpar quality has significantly improved since then. Many point-and-shoot cameras now offer imaging quality that can easily rival that of interchangeable lens cameras in order to compete.
Conclusion
Now that we’ve finally reached the end of our article, I hope this was able to help you out in deciding whether a camera is worth the investment or not. As well as knowing the types of cameras that will suit you the best.
Photography is a wonderful experience and there’s no better way to preserve memories than taking photos of them. So whether you opt to get a manual camera or stick with your smartphone, I hope you have fun in your pursuit of taking great images.
Do you already own a camera? Or are you still thinking of getting one? Did our article on How To Buy The Best Cameras For Beginners help you out in making a decision? Let me know in the comments section below if you have any insights, suggestions, or questions to ask. I would love to hear all your thoughts!
It’s been a few years since we were first introduced to the Nikon D3500. Yet somehow, this particular DSLR still remains to be one of the best cameras you can invest in if you’re just starting out in photography. That’s why for today, let’s take a closer look at our dedicated Nikon D3500 review to find out what makes this DSLR so impressive.
If photography is something that interests you and you feel like you’re ready to make the jump from using your smartphone cameras to holding an actual DSLR, I can’t think of a better camera to start out with other than the Nikon D3500. This beginner-friendly DSLR offers a “Guide Mode” that is truly helpful for any rookie photographer out there.
The “Guide Mode” features act as a fully interactive manual that will explain complicated concepts that may sound unfamiliar so you have an idea of how to properly set up your photography and camera settings. So if you were worried or ever felt intimidated about DSLRs being too complicated for you, the Nikon D3500 will surely help you out on that aspect.
However, if you’re not that interested in tinkering with the manual controls, you also have the option to simply set the camera on Auto Mode so you can just pick this up and start snapping away to take as many photos as you want.
What To Expect
When it comes to the Nikon D3500’s external controls, they’re pretty straightforward and easy to follow once you get the hang of it. However, due to its inexpensive price, you’ll have to manage your expectations. You’ll surely be missing out on a few advanced features you might spot on more high-end models from Nikon but this doesn’t mean that the D3500 is a bad product.
For example, unlike every other Nikon DSLR series, the D3500 offers no Custom Settings menu for customizing camera features to your liking. However, the image quality and overall performance you get from the D3500 are still extremely excellent and offer great value for its price.
Not to mention, if you’re getting more serious about your photography and you feel like you’re ready for an upgrade, Nikon offers a wide range of impressive lenses for you to choose from and invest in in the future.
Features & Specifications
Dimensions: 4.88 x 2.76 x 3.82 inches
Item Weight: 13.8 ounces
Brand: Nikon
Type: DSLR
Sensor Size: APS-C
Viewfinder Type: Pentamirror
Resolution: 24.2MP
Monitor: 3.0-inch fixed, 921k dots
Autofocus: 11-point AF, 1 cross-type
Maximum Continuous Shooting Rate: 5 fps
Max Video Resolution: 1080p
Warranty: 1 year limited warranty
Come Check Out Nikon’s Preview Of The D3500 Below.
The biggest selling point of the Nikon D3500 and the reason why it’s so well-loved is due to how intuitive it is especially for photographers who are just starting out. This is all thanks to its impressive “Guide Mode” functions.
To further explain, this particular features makes it easy for you to tell the camera what kind of scene you want to record. It essentially teaches you the fundamentals of photography the more you use the D3500, such as the shutter speed, aperture, and exposure compensation. To put it simply, this is a camera that you can really grow with and hone your skills in as a totally new photographer.
Great Value For An Inexpensive Price
Whenever we pick up new hobbies or start to take interest in certain things, we usually want to test the waters first if it’s something we want to do long-term before investing too much money in it. And that’s what makes the Nikon D3500 shine. It’s perfectly made for rookie photographers in mind while offering you some of the best features you can find within the range of entry-level DSLRs.
Sure, you might also want to set your eyes on some mirrorless cameras like the Fujifilm X-T200 and that’s okay, but they do come at a much higher cost. Aside from the ability to shoot 4K videos and a touchscreen LCD, you won’t be missing out on a lot unless you’re planning to do a lot of video recording activities such as vlogging.
While they both have their pros and cons, the Nikon D3500 is still the better choice for beginners who prioritize taking still photos due to the kind of handling and value that a lot of mirrorless cameras (even including the most recent releases) struggle to match.
Excellent Battery Life
When it comes to battery life, the Nikon D3500 is truly a beast in this aspect which I find that even the most recent camera models struggle to keep up with. The D3500’s predecessor, the D3400 already had an impressive enough battery life of offering you 1,200 shots. But Nikon still managed to extend this to a staggering 1,550 shots with the D3500.
So if you’re going to be shooting a lot outdoors for longer periods of time with no power outlet nearby, then you’ll have little to no problems with the Nikon D3500 lasting you for several hours.
Our Least Favorite Thing
Lacks More Modern Features
While it’s nice that you’ll get to save a lot of money if you do choose to buy the Nikon D3500, it’s also best to keep in mind that because this particular camera model has been around for quite some time now, you are going to notice that it lacks a few “advanced” or “modern” features that other cameras offer. Some examples are below:
No 4K Video Capabilities
This might be the biggest con of the D3500. In this day and age, a lot of photographers or content creators are really aiming for that crisp and detailed quality you get from shooting videos in 4K. Not to mention, 4K video resolutions have already become the standard for most cameras that are currently being released.
Unfortunately, the Nikon D3500 only offers a max resolution of 1080-P in Full HD. But if that’s something you don’t mind and you’re happy with the 1080-p resolution, then this slight setback shouldn’t bother you or entirely put you off from the D3500.
LCD Isn’t Adjustable Or Touchscreen
If you’re someone who’s coming from using your smartphone camera to do your photography, then the Nikon D3500’s LCD might be a bit of an adjustment for you. Unlike other cameras with a vari-angle LCD that you can flip in various directions or a touchscreen display for easier navigation, the Nikon D3500 still has your traditional display that is stuck behind the camera’s body.
So if you’re hoping to take selfies with this camera, you might end up having a hard time doing that.
In A Nutshell
Now that we have covered everything about the Nikon D3500, here is a narrowed-down list of the pros and cons of this particular DSLR camera.
Pros
Beginner-friendly “guide mode”.
Great value for its inexpensive price.
Impressive 24MP sensor quality.
Excellent battery life.
Cons
Can only shoot up to 1080-p Full HD videos.
Fairly basic external controls.
Lacks modern features more recently released cameras have.
Our Final Verdict
Overall, the Nikon D3500 still excels in being one of the best DSLR cameras for beginners, photography students, and casual photographers who just want a low-cost manual camera in their hands to jump-start their path to photography. And despite the Nikon D3500 already being a few years old, you’re still getting a lot of value from this particular camera model at an incredibly inexpensive price point.
If you don’t mind missing out on a few more modern features other cameras offer, then you’ll be absolutely satisfied with using the Nikon D3500 for a pretty long time until you find your footing and feel more comfortable upgrading to a more advanced model.
Do you already own the Nikon D3500? Or are you still deciding whether to purchase it? Let me know in the comments sections below if you have any insights, suggestions, or experiences to share with this camera model! I would love to hear all your thoughts!
Fujifilm is popularly known for its retro-design cameras that are sure to offer you a wave of nostalgia. At the same time, providing some of the best camera specs and features you can get your hands on in the market. Their X-series cameras feature some of their best units and the X-T200 aims to bridge the gap between their entry-level models and their flagship X-T30. To find out more, let’s dive into our Fujifilm X-T200 review here.
The Fujifilm X-T200 is a great option for people who just started dipping their toes in the world of photography. It’s a nice upgrade from your current smartwatch cameras while being very beginner-friendly to those who might be intimidated by complicated or alien concepts some camera models have.
Apart from that, the X-T200 seems to serve as the sweet spot between Fujifilm’s basic entry-level mirrorless cameras and more high-end and advanced flagship models. So if you’re just starting on your photography but don’t want to settle on a basic entry-level camera, then the X-T200 will be perfect for you.
The X-T200 offers a wonderful balance of conventional physical controls along with touchscreen capabilities. The X-T200 also has 3.5 inches of display that provides easy-to-follow instructions for beginners, as well as a pretty decent viewfinder that makes it easy for rookie photographers to shoot images in broad daylight.
Additionally, the X-T200’s display can also be flipped over to face forward, making it ideal for people who love to take selfies and do vlogs. Going back to its touchscreen functionality, this particular feature offers a sense of familiarity to people who are mostly used to navigating controls via a touchscreen on their smartphones.
To put it simply, adapting to this camera from your smartphone won’t be too difficult for you. However, once you get the hang of this camera and you feel confident enough to experiment and tinker around with the X-T200, this model also offers physical controls such as a joystick and three dials for you to toggle with as you hone your photography skills.
When shopping for cameras, the first thing most of you will always notice is how they look like. For the most part, cameras seem to sport the same look. This is especially the case with DSLR cameras. Depending on who you ask, seeing the same aesthetic for such cameras can often feel boring. However, Fujifilm is best known for its uniquely designed cameras that all seem to sport a retro and old-school theme.
Some may love it, while some may not really pay attention to how their camera looks. But I’ll still give Fujifilm plus points for taking the step in making their cameras stand out. The X-T200 is no exception to Fujifilm’s well-designed products. Encased in a vintage style dressing, this particular camera is sure to make you feel nostalgic for the 35mm SLR film cameras of the past.
Great Build Quality & Handling
Another great quality of the X-T200 is how impressively well-built this camera is. Despite having a much larger vari-angle LCD than its predecessor, the X-T100, Fujifilm managed to keep the X-T200’s body lighter compared to the former. This makes the camera just all-around easier to carry and feels more comfortable in your hands.
However, when compared to Fujifilm’s more high-end and advanced models like the X-T30, you’ll notice right away that the X-T200 has a more plasticky feel as well as lacking the external shutter speed and lens aperture controls. Though it’s best to keep in mind that Fujifilm settled on this decision on purpose to keep the model beginner-friendly and easily understood by novice photographers.
But don’t let that fool you. Despite being marketed towards newbies, the X-T200 is more than your average entry-level camera.
The X-T200 offers twin control dials with customizable function buttons you can configure to your preference as well as a ‘Q’ quick menu for your standard camera settings. This is essentially part of Fujifilm’s more basic mirrorless camera models, but with added and upgraded features and controls to match most mid-range cameras you’ll find in the market.
4k Video Quality At 30 FPS
The sensor and processor of this camera have been improved to handle 4K videos at up to 30fps which is really impressive for a camera of this caliber. You usually see this kind of feature on more high-end models but Fujifilm did not disappoint at all. In addition to that, the X-T200 also has 3.5x faster processing that Fujifilm claims will prevent any “rolling shutter” effect.
Apart from that, the vari-angle screen also offers a 16:9 ratio that’s perfect for video. Plus, it flips over to the front so you can take selfies or do vlogging activities to your heart’s content.
In addition, the X-T200 also has an HDR video mode which essentially blends videos at different exposures in an unknown method along with a “digital gimbal” that smooths out your footage through an in-camera gyro and an electrical stabilization algorithm that’s built into the camera.
Overall Performance Is Excellent
When it comes to performance, the X-T200 performs as well as you expect from a Fujifilm camera. The detailed rendition you get from stills alone is quite excellent and Fujifilm’s wide range of Film Simulations should appeal to a variety of tastes from everyone.
Additionally, the dynamic range extension options can be really useful in preserving highlight detail in high-contrast scenarios.
Our Least Favorite Thing
Disappointing Battery Life
One thing that really puts me off with the X-T200 is its disappointing battery life. Especially if you consider the price point it is in. This particular camera eats up a significant amount of battery life even when you’re not using it as much. A fully charged X-T200 significantly comes down to a surprisingly low battery level after moderate usage of about 30-40 pictures and a few short videos.
Personally, that kind of battery life is quite mediocre but fortunately for you, the X-T200 provides a USB-C charging port that makes it easy for you to charge the battery while on the go by using a compatible smartphone charger.
No X-Trans Sensors
Personally, I don’t find this a huge deal breaker. I get that Fujifilm wants to keep the X-Trans sensors exclusive for their more advanced models like the X-T3, X-T30, X-Pro3, and the new X100V compact models. But this is definitely something you might want to know or keep in mind before investing in this model.
However, the regular 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor seems to be working perfectly fine with the Fujifilm X-T200.
Overall, it still performs really solidly on its right. So don’t let this put you off from this particular camera model or see this as too big of a disadvantage.
In A Nutshell
Now that we have covered everything about the Fujifilm X-T200, here is a narrowed-down list of the pros and cons of this particular camera.
Pros
Lightweight and compact.
Great design and aesthetic.
Suitable for video-oriented users or vloggers.
Offers full manual controls for you to experiment with once you’re comfortable enough with your photography skills.
Large vari-angle touchscreen display.
Excellent 4K video resolution and picture qualities without editing.
Cons
Uses a regular CMOS and not a X-Trans sensor.
Battery life is not that great especially for its price point.
Our Final Verdict
Overall, the Fujifilm X-T200 works wonderfully in what it is supposed to do. It successfully bridges the gap between Fujifilm’s entry-level models and more advanced models in their lineups. It’s perfect for people who are making the jump from their smartphone cameras and want to be more serious about their photography and want a mirrorless camera they can really hone and develop their skills in.
In any case, I hope our Fujifilm x-T200 review was able to help you decide whether this camera is something you should invest in or not.
Do you already own the Fujifilm X-T200? Or are you still deciding? Let me know in the comments sections below if you have any insights, suggestions, or experiences to share with this camera model! I would love to hear all your thoughts!
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Taking photos has always been one of the best ways to commemorate some of the best moments in our lives. With these photos, we get to preserve those memories forever and have the ability to look back at them whenever we want. These days, our smartphones are usually enough to do the job. But if you want to go old school and try your hand with actual cameras, here are our top picks for the best camera for a beginner in 2021.
Why Get A Dedicated Camera?
Without a doubt, smartphone cameras are also becoming more and more advanced each year. Some even surpassing the quality of actual cameras in the market. So it’s pretty understandable if some of you may still be on the fence about whether it would be good to invest in a dedicated camera or stick with the one your smartphone provides.
Some of you may even be convinced that cameras are not worth buying in this day and age. Some may even say that the chunky DSLRs seem pretty outdated and are near becoming obsolete due to the significant decrease in demand.
However, if you’re really serious about your photography and you want an authentic experience of feeling like an actual photographer, nothing will beat holding an actual dedicated camera in your hands.
Smartphone Cameras Vs. Dedicated Cameras
While smartphone cameras are much preferred by the majority of people because they’re conveniently built into their main devices, you’re not really going to see professional photographers using a smartphone to record and shoot events, or commercials, or films. Even with professional vlogs, you rarely see anyone using their smartphones to record themselves.
In these cases, actual cameras like DLSRs still reign supreme. If you see yourself doing photography in the long run, a camera is hands down, a worthy investment.
Smartphone cameras tend to be limited in a lot of ways unless you’re using a flagship model like the iPhone 12 Pro Max or Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra. Meanwhile, cameras like DSLRs offer the advantage of longevity and versatility.
With cameras like DSLRs, these gadgets are sure to last you for decades. You can also easily just swap out certain parts if you want an upgrade. No need to completely throw out your current unit if you’re on a budget. While you can’t really do the same thing with a smartphone camera and you’ll be wanting to upgrade every 3-5 years or so.
What Makes A Great Camera For Beginners?
The term “beginner” varies depending on the person. It can mean different things to different people. To some, it can mean having zero knowledge when it comes to photography. Which in this case, you’ll want to stick with entry-level camera models that provide plenty of manual options for you to tinker around with as you develop your skills.
Not to mention, entry-level models are often generally cheaper than the ones targeted for professional photographers. Not only this helps you save money, but it also prevents you from investing too much or wasting resources in case you realize that photography isn’t something you want to do in the long run.
But in the case that photography does become a long-term hobby or even a source of income for you, the best beginner cameras today should be able to offer a wide range of features that will really help nurture your skills.
In addition to that, a good beginner-friendly camera should also offer you the option to switch or swap lenses and other camera parts as you grow as a photographer. This will save you a ton of money whenever you wish to upgrade your camera’s features.
Fortunately for you, so many advancements have been made in our camera technology that the features we once only saw in flagship and high-end models can now be found in several numbers of entry-level models from different brands. Now, even rookie photographers have the capability and luxury to shoot and record videos at 4K as well as having high-resolution sensors.
Our Top Picks For Beginners
If you’re now ready to start your photography journey, just keep scrolling to read and see our top recommendations for the best cameras for a beginner this 2021.
1. Fujifilm X-T200
Overview
One of the best cameras you can get your hands on in the market right now is the Fujifilm X-T200. The main reason it sits on the top spot of our list is due to the fact that it’s the perfect balance between smartphone photography and having a professional interchangeable lens camera.
The Fujifilm X-T200 offers a wonderful balance of conventional physical controls along with touchscreen capabilities. The X-T200 also has 3.5 inches of display that provides easy-to-follow instructions for beginners, as well as a pretty decent viewfinder that makes it easy for rookie photographers to shoot images in broad daylight.
Additionally, the X-T200’s display can also be flipped around to face forward, making it ideal for people who love to take selfies and vlogging activities. Going back to its touchscreen functionality, this is another plus as it gives a sense of familiarity to people who are mostly used to navigating controls via a touchscreen on their smartphones.
To put it simply, adapting to this camera from your smartphone won’t be too difficult. But if you’re confident enough to experiment and tinker around with the X-T200, this model also offers physical controls such as a joystick and three dials.
Apart from its superior qualities, the X-T200 isn’t too bad to look at either. It sports a very vintage and old-school design that is sure to make you feel nostalgic for the 35mm SLR film cameras of the past.
If you feel like photography is a path that you’ll be taking seriously in the long run, a great camera to start out with is the Nikon D3500. This beginner-friendly and fuss-free DSLR offers a “Guide Mode” that acts as a fully interactive manual that will explain seemingly complicated concepts to you so you have an idea of how to set up your photography and camera settings.
So if you were worried about DSLRs being too complicated for you, the Nikon D3500 will surely help you out on that aspect. Though if you can’t be bothered with tinkering around your camera, you can just easily put this on Auto Mode and start snapping away to your heart’s content.
When it comes to the Nikon D3500’s controls, they’re pretty straightforward and easy to follow once you get the hang of it. However, due to its inexpensive price, you have to expect that you’ll be missing out on a few advanced features you might spot on more high-end models from Nikon.
For example, unlike every other Nikon DSLR series, the D3500 offers no Custom Settings menu for customizing camera features to your liking. However, the image quality and overall performance you get from the D3500 are still extremely excellent for its price.
Not to mention, if you’re getting more serious about your photography and you feel like you’re ready for an upgrade, Nikon offers plenty of impressive lenses for you to choose from and invest in.
If you feel like the Nikon D3500 lacks certain features you’re desiring and you’re willing to spend a few more bucks in order to get that, you might want to set your eyes on the Canon EOS Rebel SL3.
The EOS Rebel SL3 offers some of Canon’s top-of-the-range features such as the APS-C sensor along with 24.1MP of photo resolution, 4K quality videos, and its brilliant Live View shooting, which is made possible thanks to the EOS Rebel SL3’s fully-articulating touchscreen display and Canon’s fast Dual Pixel CMOS AF autofocus.
The particular model also features an expansive focus area of approx. 88% horizontal and 100% vertical when working with select compatible EF lenses. The Eye Detection AF analyzes the image and automatically determines where to focus based on your subject’s eyes, helping you capture every moment you want to preserve with the sharpest details.
And if you’re worried about having to carry around a chunky DSLR camera in your bag, the EOS Rebel SL3 is actually one of Canon’s smallest and most lightweight models up to date. It is conveniently sized this way for everyday use and its compact construction is accompanied by excellent usability, including a rounded grip that can sit comfortably in your hand.
The Fujifilm X-T30 is essentially a more affordable and pared-down version of Fujifilm’s flagship camera, the X-T3. However, don’t let that fool you or put you off from this excellent camera model. Despite being the inferior model compared to the latter, the Fujifilm X-T30 is a very excellent camera that’s perfect for beginners while also being one of the more advanced models on this list.
The X-T30 comes with a number of impressive features, including a 26.1MP back-illuminated X-Trans APS-C sensor, 4K DCI and UHD video recording up to 30p, and the ability to shoot at up to 30 frames per second.
If that’s not enough to convince you, with newer models entering the market, you can also expect the X-T30 to become more and more affordable too while still offering great value for rookie photographers. To add to that, Fujifilm just knows how to make their cameras look good with their distinct retro and vintage aesthetic. So if that’s something that appeals to you, this model would not disappoint at all.
To put it simply, the Fujifilm X-T30 is a fantastic little all-rounder for people who are just getting started with their photography, as it can shoot a little bit of everything and this is definitely a model you can really hone and develop your skills with.
Just like the Fujifilm X-T30, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is another camera worthy of your consideration if you’re on the hunt for fuss-free mirrorless compact cameras.
Upon closer look, you might notice that it is missing some of the more advanced specs and features found in more high-end competitors, such as a microphone and USB-C ports. However, it still excels and performs wonderfully as a stills camera.
Its ergonomic grip, intuitive button layout, and convenient flip-down touchscreen provide excellent adaptability without getting in the way of the classically styled casing, which makes this camera model very ideal for aspiring photographers who have made the switch from their smartphone cameras to investing in dedicated cameras.
Furthermore, the Advanced Photo mode makes it simple for newbies to experiment with advanced techniques like long exposures. IN addition to that, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV also offers superb in-body image stabilization technology, which is based on the flagship Olympus E-M1.
When it comes to sensor resolution, you’ll find it is pretty decent at 20.3MP, and because it’s a Micro Four Thirds camera, it has one of the most extensive lens collections available in the market. So if you want to upgrade your lens kit, you’ll have no trouble finding one that’s compatible with this body.
The EOS M series from Canon is definitely something you should take a look at if you’re just starting out on your photography. In this case, our most recommended model would be the Canon EOS M50 Mark II. In comparison to its predecessor, it only has a few yet significant upgrades that make this the better choice.
Improved autofocus (along with eye detection in stills and video) is one of those changes that are worth noting, as are clean HDMI out, vertical video recording, and the option to live stream directly to YouTube for video shooters or vloggers.
And in the case that you’re not yet too confident about tinkering around with your EOS M50 Mark II, don’t fret! This particular model sports a much simpler user interface that offers helpful explanations and suggestions to guide you within the settings menu. Once you have gotten the hang of your camera, you have the option to disable it.
However, do keep in mind that while the EOS M50 Mark II is an excellent 1080p camera, it’s definitely a poorer option if you’re planning to shoot at 4K due to the heavy 1.6x crop. But if you’re not too concerned with video resolution, then this is still an excellent choice for you to consider.
Now that we’ve covered our top recommendations of the best camera for a beginner this 2021, here are some things to keep in mind before you make that final purchase.
Different Types Of Cameras
Before you decide to purchase your first camera, you must decide first what kind of photography you’re in and what kind of photos are you going to take. Every camera in the market is built differently, they offer different features and specs, as well as serving a different purpose for each photographer.
Some cameras are better for taking shots of sceneries and breathtaking views of a variety of locations. Then there are some that specialize in taking portraits of people, recording vlogs or films, or close-up pictures of animals like birds flying in from high altitudes, lions or tigers, and plenty of other wildlife.
Aside from the subject of your photos, knowing what type of camera you’re looking for is critical for every photographer. So below are the different types of cameras you can choose from:
Digital / DSLRS
The DSLR used to be the professional standard for a camera, and it still is. It’s widely used by professional photographers across the globe and it’s also one of the most popular types of camera you’ll see in the market. If you’re attending certain events, you’ll spot plenty of professional photographers and journalists mainly using this type of camera.
The term “DSLR” actually stands for “digital single-lens reflex”. This refers to the fact that it uses a single lens for shooting and focusing.
DSLRs include an internal mirror mechanism that will allow you to use an optical viewfinder. This particular viewfinder is also much preferred by photographers rather than relying on the LCD screen the DSLR provides when it comes to taking photos. DLSR cameras are also often more durable and weatherproof than other types of cameras thanks to their rugged design.
Though keep in mind that this varies depending on the model and unit.
Film
Film cameras are the traditional way of taking photos. They’re generally inexpensive but they also don’t offer as many settings as you would see in a digital camera like the DSLR. However, they do have one thing that no other type of camera can provide: nostalgia.
Unlike digital cameras wherein you get to see the results of your photos in real-time after pressing the shutter button, film cameras require more effort and time. Film cameras use film rolls which eventually get used up after taking a certain amount of photos. Once you used up all your film rolls, you can take those to a photo developer and they will develop your photos for you.
Keep in mind that some developers will take you a few days before you get to see your photos. Though personally, the wait is always worth it. The photos you get are unedited, have a vintage feel to them, and really capture the essence of the moment.
Instant Film
Instant film cameras are a lot like film cameras except you get your photos printed out in a matter of seconds. They usually produce what you call “polaroids“.
This type of camera also uses a special kind of film roll that gives you a limited amount of shots you can take. However, unlike the traditional film camera, instant film cameras can produce pictures shot after shot. These models are also pretty popular with the youth. They don’t have a lot of settings to choose from and are usually considered as a “toy” by professionals.
Overall, instant film cameras are fun to use and great for memorabilia purposes.
Compact
Compact cameras are also another type of digital camera. However, unlike their DSLR counterparts, compact cameras have fixed lens that cannot be changed or swapped out. So you’ll either be stuck with a zoom lens that covers a specific focal range, or a fixed-focal-length “prime” lens that focuses on quality.
This type of camera is also considered a “point-and-shoot” camera. They’re most suitable for beginners or casual photography enthusiasts who aren’t too picky with camera settings or have no plans of doing any sort of professional photography. Before smartphone cameras were a thing, this was the most popular type of camera among the masses.
The models under this type of camera were pretty cheap and they did a good enough job in taking photos. However, its mediocre quality has since then evolved a lot due to the significant rise in the popularity of smartphones. In order to compete, these days, many compact cameras offer imaging quality that can easily rival that of interchangeable lens cameras.
Mirrorless
Mirrorless cameras are pretty similar to DSLRs in certain ways. Like DSLR cameras, they also have swappable lens mounts that can be switched out at any moment you prefer. They do, however, forego the mirror system that allows for an optical viewfinder in exchange for the ability to build these models smaller and lighter.
So if you feel like DSLRs are a little too chunky for your liking, mirrorless cameras might be more suitable for you. They offer a lot more portability and sport slimmer bodies so they won’t take up too much space in your bag.
In addition to that, in the photo and video community, mirrorless cameras are widely regarded nowadays as the way of the future. This is definitely where the most interesting advances in image technology are being found and taking place so keep your eyes peeled on these units!
Conclusion
All in all, cameras for beginners nowadays provide a wide range of options to choose from. The choices are practically endless and you are bound to get your hands on the best beginner-friendly camera that will surely suit your needs and requirements. Whether it be in terms of portability, lens compatibility, and so much more, you will find the one that clicks for you.
Do you already own a camera? Did your favorite make it into our list? Or have you already decided which one to purchase to start your photography journey? Let me know in the comments section below if you have any insights, questions, or suggestions to share. I would love to hear all your thoughts!
