Best Cameras For Beginners

Stepped up your photography game from selfies to pro-portraits? Perhaps you see yourself venturing into travel blogging as a hobby? Either way, you'll need to find an entry-level camera for the job. 

Fortunately, we've already negotiated the minefield of mediocrity on the market and confidently recommend the best cameras for beginners.  

Why Do I Need a Camera If I've Got a Phone?

Great question. I mean, smartphones take the most incredible photos, right?

Up to a point, yes. But if it's a professional quality you're after, then you're going to need a better strategy than 'point-and-shoot'. The reasons are as follows:

• Battery life. If you've ever used your smartphone to take a bucketload of photos, chances are you've run out of power by lunchtime. A dedicated camera takes 300-500 images before needing a recharge.
• Increased zoom. Cameras use what is known as true optical zoom, which means they can cover a wider range. Smartphones, unfortunately, only have computational zoom, which is limiting.
• Camera, lights, action. Good quality cameras are so much faster, offer better quality and provide enhanced user control.
• Speaking of user control, a camera enables you to dabble with a more comprehensive range of modes and settings.

What Are The Best Cameras For Beginners?

While it's mostly true that what you pay is what you get, there are still some great affordable options for new photographers. Not that you're going to be on a budget for long. Once you've made some money on your trading, you can easily buy a more expensive camera.

Besides, it's never wise to choose the cheapest option. Instead, stretch your budget and go for the camera that will save you money in the longer term.

Use our guide below and choose something that suits you. You'll want a balance of flexibility and user-friendly functionality, and with that said, our first listed camera is:

Fujifilm X-T200

If street portraits and travel photography is your thing, then the lens stabilisation provided by the Fujinon XC15-45mm f/3.5-5.6 lens will suit you, because blurry images are prevented.

The X-T200 is a mirrorless camera with video capabilities and contains a range of film simulation modes superior to conventional social media filters. Expect the look and feel of a classic movie that won't need any editing.

Nikon D3500

The perfect low-budget choice, especially if tone-rich photography is more important to you than video.

The camera comes with a good quality 24MP sensor and an excellent 1,550-shot battery life.

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Like the Nikon, this mirrorless camera is compact and captures beautiful photos. Comes with a capable sensor and impressive image stabilisation.

Fujifilm X-T30

Quite advanced for beginners, but it allows for fledglings to grow as they progress. Excellent specs include a 26.1MP back-illuminated sensor, articulating touchscreen, 4K video and the ability to shoot at 30fps. 

Canon EOS M50 Mark II

If it's fast-moving action, like sports or hyperactive pets, then Canon's Dual Pixel AF is perfect for keeping everything in focus. Neat, compact and ideal for stills and video

Choices, choices. Any of these beginner cameras will satisfy your creative urges. Happy shooting.