15 best cameras for beginner photographers

Photography is much more than a hobby. This seemingly harmless occupation requires a decent investment, the bulk of which is spent on the acquisition of a good camera. Professional photographers who have made a hobby their main job need expensive equipment that not only has high performance, but also includes a number of subtle, and often completely redundant functions and settings. However, if you are a novice photographer, we recommend paying attention to the following key parameters of the device:

• Type of. Many photo masters complain that compact digital cameras are ideal for beginners, the development of which is much easier than learning DSLRs. However, the opposite is also true: if you once learn how to work with SLR cameras, then the photographer will have a device with a large set of functions and settings that are inaccessible to digital analogs.
• Cost This factor should not be overlooked, since the price follows closely the choice of the model. It so happened that digital cameras are much cheaper than SLR cameras, even with comparable (or superior) parameters. However, the latter give greater creative freedom, which is the decisive factor in determining the type and price range
• Availability of reference data. Recently, most of the SLR cameras are equipped with a built-in directory function, thereby facilitating the lives of newcomers in the world of photography. 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 the clever advertising trick about megapixels, because this function is not so important in mirrors. It is much more important to understand what dimensions the matrix has - the larger its dimensions (even at a resolution of 10 megapixels, which are sufficient for high quality photos), the better the color rendition, the higher the 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 shots in order to achieve the desired effect from a photo.Beginners often face the problems of the first frame, so autonomy, which determines the number of possible shots with one full charge of the battery, is one of the key parameters.
• Availability of automatic settings. At the very beginning of the use of the SLR, the user will be very difficult to navigate in the settings. Therefore, preference should be given to cameras with ready-made parameters for various types of shooting, be it landscape, portrait or sport.
• Autofocus and exposure. The implementation of these two functions in automatic mode will significantly simplify the process of photography for a beginner.

Best Canon SLR Cameras for Beginner Photographers

4 Canon EOS 800D Kit

Compared with the classic SLR for beginners, the model clearly seeks to the big leagues. The 45-point cross-type uses the camera for perfect sharpness when sighted through the viewfinder. There is no direct selection of the focus point. Rotating screen with electronic level will not allow the horizon to fall down, 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.

In the comments actively discuss the pros and cons of the device. From a positive note, the transformation of the LCD display into a full-fledged control, high image quality at ISO up to 3200, video recording 1080p at 60 frames / sec in NTSC format is 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 heat and moisture protection.

3 Canon EOS 1300D Kit

According to reviewers, 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 experiment with enthusiasm with all the manual settings, shoot with a blurred background in moderately difficult conditions. After exploring the capabilities of the whale lens, you can switch to high-aperture optics and take a fresh look at the camera.

A lot of talk on the network about the speed of work. Do not be confused by the slow loading of information on the screen after activating the device, the camera is ready to shoot after half a second after switching on (the time spent on autofocus is already included). With proper response, you will not miss a single valuable dynamic frame. But here's another thing: in the RAW format, a series of 7 images is taken at a speed of 3 frames / second, 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.

2 Canon EOS 80D Kit

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

But purely technically, the Canon EOS 80D Kit does not add 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 for the earlier EOS 70D, and, alas, does not show anything more than that.

Advantages:

• availability of wireless connectivity with other devices;
• good dynamic design at low ISO values;
• the presence of a built-in interval timer (dedicated to time-lapse lovers).

Disadvantages:

• possesses especially average technical capabilities;
• high price.

1 Canon EOS 200D Kit

The camera weighs only 450 g with the parameters 122.4 x92.6x69.8 cm (length, width, height, respectively). The creators thoughtfully approached the development of cameras for beginners. This model gives the solution sought by beginners at the beginning of their journey: the maximum set of technical capabilities at a reasonable price. A mirror device with a swivel touchscreen display supports NFC, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi interfaces, captures at a speed of 5 frames / sec., The CMOS autofocus sensor smoothly monitors the video object. It is nice to have these functions and technologies from the world of professional photos on an amateur device.

I liked the users and the new graphical interface. Colored icons suggest what effect you will achieve when setting the aperture and shutter speed. This makes life much easier at the training stage, and later you can switch to the standard view. On sale there are models in black, white and silver color, so that the SLR easily turns into a fashion accessory.

Best Nikon SLR Cameras for Beginner Photographers

4 Nikon D610 Body

The camera has a full-frame 24x36 mm CMOS sensor with a resolution of 24 megapixels. In conjunction with the processor Expeed 3 – This ensures high detail images and minimal noise at ISO up to 3200. A large matrix allows you 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 possibilities for the photographer: you can set up recording data one by one, as the media fills up, or in parallel on two flash drives. And you can also post a JPG record on one card, and RAW - on the next one, in order to extract everything you need from the frames.

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

3 Nikon D7200 Body

Here time-lapse videotaping is implemented or, in a different way, “Timelapse” - slow-motion time-lapse shooting with automatically specified time intervals between frames. In this mode, auto exposure alignment is available, which is important when shooting for hours with changes in lighting. The owner has the opportunity to record Full HD video 1920x1080 with a frequency of up to 60 frames / sec. The settings of the video parameters are very conveniently located - this is a whole separate tab in the menu. For high-quality sound recordings, you can attach an external microphone to the 3.5 mm jack; moreover, its sensitivity is adjusted manually in the camera menu.

If you choose a DSLR for years, this one is just suitable for difficult operation - there is dust and moisture protection. Owners allocate a lot of fine settings, confusing the novice, but in the future will serve as space for creative experiments. Therefore, the Nikon's “semi-professional” is considered the best device with the prospect of development in the field of photo and videography.

2 Nikon D3500 Kit

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

The EN-EL14a battery at 1230 mAh has proven itself very well. The claimed 1550 frames on one charge are confirmed by practice, while users do not deny themselves neither the long series, nor the use of the built-in flash and the Live View mode, and also quietly connect to the smartphone via a wireless interface. Even commentators point out a wide range of photo processing capabilities right in the device: brightness, effects, cropping, correcting a distorted perspective, etc.

1 Nikon D5300 Body

Amateur-level camera, created in the image of the model D3300. Despite the already brilliant ergonomics of the above-mentioned camera, the Nikon D5300 Body was worked out additionally, the benefit is 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 points to the internal corporate struggle for every hundredth pixel in order to improve the final result of the photo. The same effect is calculated painstaking work on the balance of settings, in order to enhance the color and related aspects. Another qualitative leap was made in the “weak link” area of ​​all budget-medium mirrors from Nikon: good sensitivity finally allows shooting at ISO 1600, bypassing grain and loss in quality. Given this amount of useful work, buying a Nikon D5300 Body can be an excellent cash investment.

Advantages:

• adjustment of the sensitivity of the matrix and the possibility of high-quality shooting at ISO 1600;
• availability of time-lapse function;
• high quality photos.

Disadvantages:

• still the same slow live view mode.

The best SLR cameras of other brands for novice photographers

3 Sony Alpha ILCA-68 Kit

Some users claim that the redesigned version of the Alpha ILCA-77 Kit Series camera is still professional, although it lacks many key functions. In fact, the lightweight 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 swivel screen of 2.7 inches, a reduced width envelope, and a body that is lightened in this way, which adds to the convenience of photography. By the way, you can take high-quality photos with an ISO value of up to 1600 and only in jpeg format. If here noise cancellation still somehow acts, that in a more convenient RAW format 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 between the depth of color and naturalness that many competing cameras lack.

2 Pentax KP Kit

At Pentax, we see the most respectful approach to customer and ergonomics. The manufacturer completes the package with three interchangeable handle-plates of different configurations, so that each photographer can adapt the case to his hand. All you need is 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 the fans of the brand and photo equipment enthusiasts.

The matrix was “brought” to ISO 819 200: by itself, at maximum values ​​of photosensitivity, 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 the PC monitor noise clearly manifests itself with ISO6400, and printing on the A3 format shows a decent picture even with ISO 12800. Landscape shooting lovers will like the automatic alignment feature: the matrix can adjust the angle of inclination to 1.5 до.

1 Pentax K-70 Kit

One of the most interesting features of the 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 light and a relative lack of darkness. The manufacturer claims that he used a hundred seals for the magnesium case, so the SLR camera with dignity will withstand even the conditions of a tropical rain.

Now the main thing - the quality of photos. Implemented technology "Pixel Shift Resolution" with a movable mount matrix. Thus, stabilization of the picture and the highest clarity in all details is achieved. To get an ultra-clear frame, the camera “stitches” 4 pictures, as it were, the result is sharp and more voluminous. Users suggest that you get the perfect effect when shooting statics: objects, architecture, landscapes, especially when combined with a tripod, self-timer, remote control and mirror lock.

The best mirrorless camera for beginner photographers

4 Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III Kit

The device is small and convenient, the grip is thought out to the smallest detail: the three fingers of the right hand rest on the frontal part, and on the opposite side an expressive projection is provided for the thumb. The control wheels remain as large as on older models - a very practical move. The camera is not much larger than a smartphone in terms of size and weight; it fits in a pocket and handbag, even during a long excursion the owner will not experience discomfort from carrying. The standard 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, newbies try their hand at collage mode (stitching several frames), Live Time (shooting with “handwritten” exposure), multiple exposure (a series of photos and sequential overlay), HDR (high dynamic range), silent shooting (only electronic shutter), panorama, distortion correction, focus bracketing (widening depth of field).

3 Fujifilm X-T100 Kit

We present a camera stylized as a classic film technique. At the base of the "carcass" is plastic, and on top is aluminum with an anodized coating of black, golden or black and silver color. Estets will definitely be satisfied with the appearance of the device. The electronic viewfinder has a diopter adjustment wheel so that photographers with vision problems do not experience discomfort.

All mirrorless "Fujifilm" have built-in presets (saved sets of settings) with an imitation of the legendary brand film. With the simulation of the effect of the film is very interesting to experiment in photo and video mode, variations are available PROVIA / STANDARD, VELVIA / VIVID, ASTIA / SOFT, CLASSIC CHROME, PRO Neg Hi, PRO Neg. Std, Sepia and five monochromes. Conclusion: despite all 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 and plot programs give a very decent result.

2 Canon EOS M50 Kit

The main advantage of the new DIGIC 8 processor is the ability to shoot video in 4K format (3840x2160 pixels at 25 frames / sec.). Note that this is not a flagship model, but a technique for lovers at an adequate price.There is an autofocus function on the eyes, but it works only with fixed people, in a classic portrait shooting, for example. In general, there are 3 methods of autofocus: zonal, at the selected point and tracking the object.

The owners call the impossibility of recharging the battery via USB as an annoying little thing, for this purpose a network charger is used. The lightweight polycarbonate case and compact dimensions allow you to carry the model even in your hands, even in your jacket pocket. The choice of the buyer are two color versions: in the usual black design and expressive white color with gray accents. The bright device looks out of the box and attracts the attention of passers-by, especially if combined with a branded silver lens.

1 Sony Alpha ILCE-6000 Kit

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 an “open” E bayonet, that is, third-party optics developers can develop fully compatible lenses. The bayonet's working section is very small, only 18 mm, which means that any optics from your arsenal will work with the adapter.

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

Popular vote - who produces the best cameras for novice photographers?
We vote!

Canon

Nikon

Pentax

Sony

Olympus

Fujifilm

Panasonic

Total votes: 560

Vote results