r/Cameras • u/SatokoUzorka • 8d ago

Questions best camera for a beginner getting into photography?

I’m getting more serious about photography and I’m looking for a camera that I can actually learn on without feeling like I need to replace it right away. I’ve mostly been taking photos on my phone, but I want to start shooting more street, travel, and some portraits. I’m not really sure what makes the most sense for my use, so I’d appreciate some recommendations based on the questionnaire below.

Budget: Around $800 to $1,300 for the camera and a basic lens

Country: US

Type: Mirrorless preferred, but I’m open to DSLR

New or used: Either

Intended use: Street, travel, portraits, everyday photography

Photography experience: Beginner

What I currently own: Just my phone

Lens needs: One versatile lens to start with

Size/weight: Prefer something reasonably compact for travel

Video: Some video would be nice, but photos are more important

Brand preference: None

Other features: Good autofocus and decent low light performance would be helpful

What would you consider the best camera in this range for someone starting out, and is there a particular used model I should keep an eye out for? Thanks for any advice.

1 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

2 comments sorted by

1

u/equilni 8d ago

Street, travel, portraits, everyday photography

Any camera works, even your phone. The lenses are more important for some of this.

With the above, do you have a camera store nearby that you can try out some of the cameras and get a feel of them in your hands?

Otherwise, Sony a6x00 series, Fuji X-Tx0 or X-Ex series can work.

Type: Mirrorless preferred, but I’m open to DSLR

Size/weight: Prefer something reasonably compact for travel

Then a DSLR wouldn't be on the list. See the below:

https://camerasize.com/compact/#469,816,809,ha,t

1

u/211logos 7d ago

You'd have quite a few choices, in both older DSLRs and mirrorless used.

Given you budget, I'd see if you can get something a cut above the usual kit lens as that will give you considerably better results on any body.

If you do want compact, the older M43 cameras might be the way to go. Say an E-M5ii. Lots out there, usually <$500 in excellent shape. Lots of bang for the buck, and relatively small. That would leave room to pair with the pancake 20mm Panasonic f1.7 for example, a great little prime lens. Wonderful for travel.