Learning photography is so much fun, especially when you have a new camera with awesome features. A good camera with a wide range of options will help you find your eye while you grow as a photographer.
I’ve tested countless cameras over my many years as a photographer and found the Canon EOS Rebel T7i to be the best camera for amateur photographers.
When I first started, I wanted a portable camera with enough features to experiment with different styles. I also needed different connectivity features to easily share photos and remove them from the camera memory because I used the same camera for social events, selfies, and freelance photo shoots.
After searching through various choices, I found the Canon EOS Rebel T7i, which exceeded all my requirements as an amateur.
That said, I also discovered some of the best budget cameras, the best compact cameras, the best vlogging cameras, the best action cameras, and more during my search. Luckily, I kept note of everything to make picking the right camera for you a cinch.
Continue reading to discover the 12 best cameras for someone honing their photography skills.
Top 12 Cameras for Amateur Photographers
Below is my list of the top 12 best cameras for amateur photographers.
- Overall Best Camera for Amateur Photographers: Canon EOS Rebel T7i
- Best Budget Cameras for Amateur Photographers: Nikon D5300
- Best Compact Cameras for Amateur Photographers: Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II
- Best Point and Shoot Camera For Amateur Photographers: Canon PowerShot ELPH 180
- Best Pocket-sized Vlogging Camera For Amateur Photographers: Sony ZV-1
- Best Action Camera for Amateur Photographers: GoPro Hero9 Black
- Best Nikon Camera Amateur Photographers: Nikon D3500
- Best Canon Camera Amateur Photographers: Canon EOS Rebel T7
- Best Sony Camera for Amateur Photographers: Sony Alpha A6100
- Best Mirrorless Camera For Amateur Photographers: Nikon Z50
- Best Full Frame Camera For Amateur Photographers: Sony A7R Mark IV
- Best DSLR Camera For Amateur Photographers: Nikon D7500
12 Best Cameras for Amateur Photographers Reviewed
So, you’ve started taking photos on your phone and want to move to a different device to capture the perfect picture? Amateur and expert photographers deserve a great camera that creates a crisp image with precise details the moment they need to capture a moment.
Beginners should have a high-quality device with features for excellent photos as they learn to navigate how to use a camera and how to get a great shot. I know this because I started as a beginner too!
Below, I’ve curated a list of the best cameras for beginners with various options for a range of budgets and different preferences for features, portability, camera type, image quality, and more. Let’s dive in!
1. Overall Best Camera For Amateur Photographers: Canon EOS Rebel T7i
I can say without a doubt that using the Canon EOS Rebel T7i is a pleasure. This Canon is the top camera I recommend for amateur and beginner photographers because it has everything a learner needs to take a great shot and room to grow with its impressive features.
I enjoy how this black Digital SLR camera feels in my hand, it only weighs 1.18 lbs with the battery pack and SD memory slot full, so it’s easy to take with me on photoshoots and long walks. Measuring three by 5.2 by 3.9 inches, this device is portable in a backpack, purse, or camera bag.
The three-inch LCD screen shows the camera’s easy-to-navigate features and previews of your shots so you can save editing time later by deleting duds from your device.
The Canon EOS Rebel T7i leaves nothing to complain about when it comes to image quality. This professional-grade camera for amateur photographers has a 24.2 megapixel CMOS (APS C) sensor that delivers crisp images with every click. Other notable image-quality features of this highly-recommended camera include the following:
- DIGIC 7 Image Processor
- ISO between 100 to 25,600
- Image-stabilization
- 3x optical zoom
- 1080p video resolution
- High-speed continuous shooting at 60 frames per second (fps)
I never imagined that a camera could have such great auto-focus features for a mid-range price, but the Canon EOS Rebel T7i delivers impressive auto-focus options that all photographers will enjoy.
This camera uses a 45-point Optical Viewfinder Auto-Focus system to ensure the focal points of your photos get the attention they deserve. I particularly enjoy this feature for shooting product videos when I need the camera to capture the details of a label or product, then auto-focus on my face.
The Canon EOS Rebel T7i has a long battery life and uses rechargeable lithium-ion batteries and a battery charger. I usually get around 820 photos with each full battery charge, but even if my camera dies mid-shoot, it’s easy to replace the battery in a few seconds and get back on track.
This amazing camera for beginners fits into budgets from $700 to $900. The lower price range includes the camera body only, while more expensive options include different lenses.
My favorite and most-used features with this camera are the built-in wireless connectivity features for Bluetooth, WiFi, and NFC connections and HDMI, USB, and AV ports for cord connection. Whichever way I want to upload my photos from DSLR to a device, this camera supports it.
One of the reasons I like recommending this camera to new photographers is that it’s so versatile. With all the different ways to connect, a beginner using this camera for personal and professional use can easily convert this compact camera into a webcam.
The package includes the camera body (and lens if included in your purchase) and accessories like a strap, camera cover, battery pack, charger, lens cap, and dust cover.
Conclusion
The Canon EOS Rebel T7i is an exceptional camera choice for budding photographers that want to invest in a high-quality but reasonably-priced DSLR camera. This versatile camera helps photographers produce frameable photos and HD videos and explore different styles with lots of fun features.
2. Best Budget Cameras For Amateur Photographers: Nikon D5300
I’ve had a lot of success using my Nikon D5300, especially when I first started photographing and was on a tight budget. This affordable Digital SLR camera is a compact model with a great hand-feel and takes breathtaking photos despite its low price tag.
The Nikon D5300 weighs only 1.17 lbs, making it easy to carry and hold while on a shoot. Measuring a comfortable 4.92 by 2.99 by 3.86 inches, I love that this camera lets me grip it well so I can get a steady shot.
I’m also a huge fan of the 3.2-inch LCD screen that gives an overview of what’s on my memory card and excellent previews of my shots.
The secret behind my high image quality with shots on my Nikon D5300 is the 24.2 megapixel CMOS (APS C) sensor. I can also capture high-quality videos with 1080p resolution. Some of my other secrets to picture-perfect photos with the Nikon D5300 include the following:
- Auto ISO 100 to 12,800, or up to 25,600 with boost features
- 3.5 to 22 f aperture
- Red-eye reduction
I often use the auto-focus features on my Nikon D5300 DSLR camera. When I was first starting with this camera, I was overjoyed with the auto-focus features, including the following:
- Face detection
- Phase detection
- Contrast detection
- Live-View
This camera also has a manual focus option for those moments when you want to experiment and hone your eye.
I’m very satisfied with the battery life of the Nikon D5300. Typically, I can take around 600 photos per full battery charge, and it’s easy to replace dead batteries with fresh ones when I’m not able to recharge the lithium-ion battery.
This black DSLR camera for amateur photographers fits into budgets from $400 to $450, making it a great choice for starters who want to buy a good camera without spending a fortune.
I’ve experimented with this camera’s different modes, including portrait, landscape, sports, close-up, nighttime, beach, snow, sunset photos, and more. I encourage all beginner photographers to get a camera like the Nikon D5300 with various modes to test how different settings change an image.
I was thrilled when I opened the package containing the camera, 18-55 mm lens, rechargeable battery, body cap, lens cap, camera strap, and cables. I can connect my photos to all my devices through the camera’s USB ports or SD memory card slot.
The Nikon D5300 has an impressive 12-year limited warranty with a one-year warranty for parts and labor.
Conclusion
The Nikon D5300 is a fantastic starter DSLR camera for amateurs on a budget that want great features and high-quality photos and videos.
3. Best Compact Cameras For Amateur Photographers: Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II
Just holding the sleek Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II made me feel like a professional, even when I was still an amateur. This impactful mirrorless camera takes high-quality shots and has a compact black and chrome design with intuitively placed controls, making it the best compact camera for newbies.
This lightweight mirrorless camera weighs 1.10 lbs and feels great in my hand when I’m taking it out for a spin. Measuring only 4.7 by 3.6 by 3.3 inches, this small device is very compact and easy to take anywhere.
Instead of an LCD screen, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II has a three-inch, 2.3 million dot Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) electronic viewfinder.
I’ll admit that the 5-axis image stabilization features, and not my skill alone, are how I get such sharp images with the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II. This smart-looking camera offers new photographers a 16-megapixel optical resolution with a CMOS sensor.
I love how this sleek camera has auto-focus features alongside exceptional image quality. I use the touch auto-focus feature almost every time I use this camera now. I just tap the three-inch OLED screen to focus with precision where I want the focal point of my photos. This camera has other auto-focus features, including the following:
- Contrast detection
- Phase difference detection
- Group target area
- Single target area
The battery life of the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II will last a day of shooting, though OLED screens typically drain battery life quicker than my DSLRs. I bring a set of spare batteries in my camera bag; it takes a couple of seconds to swap out a dead one for a fresh one and get back to photographing.
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II mirrorless compact camera is an affordable starter option that fits into budgets from $600 to $650.
Other reasons I recommend this compact camera to beginners are the features like silent mode that disables shutter sounds so photographers can take candid shots, shoot nature photography, or capture the intensity of quiet moments during a concert.
I was thrilled when I got the box with my Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II and all the accessories to use it. The package includes the camera, lens, front and back lens caps, a UBS cable, set up disk, instruction manual, shoulder strap, one battery, and a charger. Plus, I got a one-year warranty for labor and parts.
I love how I can control the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II wirelessly or with a cable. Plus, this camera has an affiliated app that lets me control camera functions through my phone and easily share photos with friends and family.
Conclusion
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II is the best compact camera that travels well and provides amateur photographers with all the features needed to capture fantastic shots. Having a lightweight, compact camera around at all times is one of the best ways to hone your skills and continually practice the craft.
4. Best Point and Shoot Camera For Amateur Photographers: Canon PowerShot ELPH 180
The Canon PowerShot ELPH 180 is an impressive compact point-and-shoot digital camera that is ideal for someone who wants good photographs on a highly portable device.
Weighing only 0.27 lbs and measuring 0.9 by 3.7 by 2.1 inches, this camera is small enough to slip into your pocket for your everyday photography needs.
Don’t be fooled by the size of this small camera; the Canon PowerShot ELPH 180 offers eye-catching image quality with a 20-megapixel optical sensor resolution. This small but mighty camera leaves nothing to be desired with high-quality 720p video resolution and image stabilization features.
I recommend this little camera to beginners because there is no manual-focus option. All photos with this baby are auto-focused for precise images with every click. Some of its other notable features include the following:
- 24 to 224 mm focal length
- 4.6x optical and 4x digital zoom
- 1/2.3-inch CCD photo sensor
The Canon PowerShot ELPH 180 has a long battery life and features an eco-mode for power saving during your walk from one location to the next. I always bring a spare battery if the rechargeable lithium-ion battery dies during a shoot.
The Canon PowerShot ELPH 180 fits budgets from $500 to $550, making this an affordable option for beginners.
It makes me smile when I look at all the ways I can connect this camera with USB connectivity, AV ports, and a slot for a micro SD card. The box includes the camera, one battery, an intro guide, a wrist strap, and a charger.
Conclusion
The Canon PowerShot ELPH 180 is the best compact point-and-shoot camera for those who need to take high-quality shots but want a device that’s as accessible as their phone. It’s lightweight and portable but also full of features and an affordable price tag.
5. Best Pocket-Sized Vlogging Camera For Amateur Photographers: Sony ZV-1
When I’m looking to make a video, I look to the Sony ZV-1 for all my vlogging needs. I recommend this pocket-sized camera to amateur photographers and budding videographers because it’s compact, lightweight, and provides exceptional image quality and features.
This 4.15 by 2.36 by 1.7-inch camera weighs only 0.65 lbs and is easy to hold while shooting a video or photo. The three-inch rotatable LCD screen makes my life so much easier when I’m taking selfies and shooting videos with me in the shot.
The Sony ZV-1 has a list of ways that it helps me take stunning photos, including the following:
- 20.1-megapixel optical resolution
- BIONZ X® image processor
- One-inch CMOS sensor with DRAM
- Large 24-70 mm aperture
- 3x optical zoom
- 16.3x digital zoom
- ISO 100 to 12,800 or 64 to 25,600
- Slow motion filming that speeds videos down up to 40x slower
- Time-lapse photos one to 60 seconds apart
I am continually impressed with the auto-focus features of the Sony ZV-1 compact camera. This device has auto-focus features with options to switch background bokeh on or off, 315 phase-detection points, and facial tracking.
One of my favorite auto-focus settings is the Product Showcase feature. I use this feature during video shoots where I show close-ups of products I use. The Product Showcase feature highlights product details without me needing to hold up my hand to focus the camera away from my face.
I’m sad to say that the battery life could be longerwith this camera. Fully charged, I can take anywhere between 250 and 350 pictures or record approximately 60 minutes of video content. That said, the Sony ZV-1 is easy to recharge or change the batteries.
This compact vlogging camera fits into budgets between $650 and $750 and is quality assured by a one-year warranty for parts and labor.
This camera has many options for connectivity with a 3.5 mm microphone jack, HDMI D connectivity, and USB 2.0 ports.
Conclusion
The Sony ZV-1 is the best pocket-sized vlogging camera for those who want a highly-portable camera that takes incredible videos and photos. I recommend this camera to those just starting a YouTube channel or social media influencer page.
6. Best Action Camera for Amateur Photographers: GoPro Hero9 Black
Just looking at my GoPro Hero9 Black makes my heartbeat increase with anticipation for the next outing where I can use it. This action camera is the best for beginners and professionals alike because it offers some of the best video resolutions for an action camera at a price that fits into all budgets.
This action camera weighs only 0.7 lbs and easily mounts to helmets without weighing down your head. Measuring 9.08 by 5.42 by 3.25 inches, this small and portable action camera has duo displays with a front LCD screen and a back LCD touchscreen.
The GoPro Hero9 gives my photos incredible image quality with a 20-megapixel optical resolution and CMOS sensor. Videos come out crisp and clear with 5K video resolution and GoPro’s SuperPhoto technology that selects the best image processing for the photo or video.
I credit the GoPro Hero9’s HyperSmooth image stabilization features for the precise photos and smooth videos I get with this compact action camera. There are no auto-focus features because you get a crisp and clear wide-angle image every time.
The GoPro Hero9 uses one rechargeable lithium-ion battery that lasts me around two hours of continuous recording per full battery charge.
This small action camera fits into budgets from $250 to $400, making this a cheap camera for amateur photographers. Plus, this camera comes with a one-year warranty for parts and labor.
One of the reasons I recommend the GoPro Hero9 to beginners is the durability of this action camera. While I haven’t tested throwing this camera against a wall or driving it over with a car, I can say that it can withstand the rigors of outdoor adventure shoots.
Some of the other features I love playing around with on this impressive device include the following:
- 8x slow-motion videos
- Time-lapse videos
- 3.0 Timewarp feature for hyperspeed videos
- Schedule capture
- Waterproof down to 33 feet
I enjoy the countless connectivity options with a USB-C connection, WiFi, Bluetooth, and compatibility with the GoPro and Quick apps.
Feel the thrill of opening a new GoPro Hero9 with the included battery, adhesive mount, mounting buckles, and USB-C cable.
Conclusion
The GoPro Hero9 is hands-down the best action camera around, with jaw-dropping photo and video resolution that captures the thrill of a moment with astounding precision and quality at a price that doesn’t break the bank.
7. Best Nikon Camera Amateur Photographers: Nikon D3500
The Nikon D3500 is easily one of the best options for amateurs from the Nikon camera line. This compact DSLR camera offers top-notch image quality, compatibility with various Nikon lenses, and battery life to brag about.
The Nikon D3500 camera is one of the lightest DSLRs I’ve come across. I was surprised when I first held this lightweight 0.86 lbs DSLR camera.
The black camera body measures 4.88 by 2.76 by 3.82 inches providing an excellent in-hand feel without being too bulky. Plus, this camera has a three-inch LCD screen that lets me easily preview my images before and after the shot.
I use my Nikon D3500 regularly to get exceptional image quality with my professional and personal photographs. Some of the features that help me take outstanding images include the following:
- 24.2-megapixel optical resolution
- One-inch CMOS photo sensor
- Expeed 4 Image Processor
- 3x optical zoom
- 1080p video resolution
- Up to 60 fps
- Five fps continuous shooting speed
I’m continually impressed with the auto-focus features of my Nikon D3500. The Multi-CAM 1000 Autofocus sensor technology helps capture crystal-clear shots with eleven auto-focus points that instantly grab a precise focal point.
I’m blown away by the battery life of my Nikon D3500. I usually get around 1,550 photos per full battery charge, and it uses lithium-ion rechargeable batteries that are easy to replace.
This impressive camera fits into budgets between $700 to $800, making it a great option for someone ready to commit to their photography journey.
I’m overjoyed with all the ways to connect this compact DSLR camera to different devices. This durable camera has wireless and cord connectivity features with AV, USB, and HDMI ports and Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity features. Plus, there’s an easy-to-use app that I use to quickly send clients sample shots or share photos with my friends.
Some of the other features I enjoy about the easy-to-use Nikon D3500 include the following:
- ISO ranges between 100 to 25,600
- Minimum shutter speed of up to 30 seconds
- One-year warranty for parts and labor
- 18-55 mm lens
- Optional 70-300 mm Hard Kit
There are many ways to play with this device; I love exploring the features and experimenting with the different settings on my Nikon D3500.
Conclusion
The Nikon D3500 is an exceptional camera for beginner photographers who want the reputable Nikon brand for a starter camera. This compact DSLR camera has an 18-55 mm lens but is compatible with other lenses, so there’s room to grow with this device as you get better at photography.
8. Best Canon Camera Amateur Photographers: Canon EOS Rebel T7
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is the best camera from the Canon line for amateur photographers. This DSLR camera has countless features that help good photographers take great shots with ease.
This lightweight camera weighs 1.04 lbs and is easy to hold throughout long sessions. The Canon EOS Rebel T7 measures 3.1 by 5.1 by 4 inches, giving me a great grip without feeling too bulky.
This awesome camera has a three-inch fixed LCD screen. At first, I was disappointed that I couldn’t move the LCD screen when taking selfies, but then I found out that the Canon EOS Rebel T7 has a compatible app for wireless access to your camera functions from your phone. I use this feature all the time to help me take great shots, even when I’m the one in the photos.
I credit the exceptional image quality of my photos to the 24.1 megapixel CMOS APS-H sensor and DIGIC 4+ Image processor inside this easy-to-learn device. Other ways this camera helps me create high-quality images include the following:
- HD video with 1080p resolution
- 3.5 to 5.6 f aperture
- ISO 100 to 12,800
- Image stabilization features
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 has mind-blowing auto-focus features that help me get crisp shots, even when there’s motion in the frame. This Canon DSLR camera has nine auto-focus points and Intelligent Auto Mode with tracking features.
This camera has a decent battery life that typically lasts me around 500 photos on one full charge. The Canon EOS Rebel T7 requires one lithium-ion battery but comes with a rechargeable one in the box.
I recommend this amazing camera often to beginners and amateurs because it fits into budgets from $400 to $450. I recommend picking up some accessories like a camera strap because the package only includes the camera body and 18-55 mm lens.
I mentioned the compatible app earlier, but this device also has wireless and cord connectivity with Bluetooth and WiFi compatibility and ports for USB 2.0, HDMI, mini HDMI, and AV cords. I also use the built-in card slot with my SD and Eye-Fi cards.
This cheap starter camera has everything a learner needs to explore the device and get a feel for photography. The Canon EOS Rebel T7 takes photos with rich details and a wide range of vibrant colors that capture the moment with precision.
I love using this camera for landscape, portrait, nighttime, sports, food photography, and more.
Conclusion
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is an affordable first camera for anyone that wants a Canon DSLR camera. This compact and lightweight camera produces high-resolution images with vivid colors and takes HD videos for complete versatility without sacrificing quality or your budget.
9. Best Sony Camera for Amateur Photographers: Sony Alpha A6100
I’m always astounded by the images and videos I capture with my Sony Alpha A6100. When it comes to a compact mirrorless camera for amateur photographers from the Sony line, I highly recommend this one.
This lightweight camera only weighs 0.87 lbs; in comparison, my iPhone 11 ProMax weighs 0.5 lbs. The body of the Sony Alpha A6100 measures 6.18 by 5.67 by 4.53 inches, so its slim design makes it easy to grip during photo sessions. Plus, this camera has a three-inch LCD touchscreen that rotates 180 degrees, so I can easily take selfies or shoot videos with me in the shot.
While I’d like to say my photography prowess is the reason I take such amazing photos with my Sony Alpha A6100, there are a lot of features on this device that help me take exceptional shots. Some of the ways I get high-quality images with this portable camera include the following:
- 24.2-megapixel optical sensor resolution
- CMOS (APS C) sensor
- 2160p video capture resolution
- 11 fps continuous shooting
- 8x digital zoom
- Ten-second self-timer
- Red-eye reduction
- High-speed sync
I recommend the Sony Alpha A6100 to amateur photographers because it has incredible auto-focus features that make a beginner’s life a lot easier. This mirrorless camera has 425-phase and contrast detection points, real-time auto-focus, and object-tracking features. These features help me capture shots with moving focal points and take great videos that intuitively switch focus from products to my face as I film.
One of the features I use all the time is the touch-tracking feature, where I can click the LCD touchscreen to focus the shot exactly where I want based on my eye.
A full charge on my Sony Alpha A6100 mirrorless camera typically lasts me for around 400 shots. While I consider this camera to have good battery life, it’s shorter than some of the other options on this list.
The Sony Alpha A6100 mirrorless camera fits into budgets from $600 to $1,800. Remember, you need a Sony E-compatible lens to attach to the camera body before you can start taking photos with this device.
I like trying out different connectivity options with this impressive camera each time I use it. So far, I’ve tried Bluetooth, WiFi, and USB connection with ease and success, but it also has space for one SD card and ports for micro HDMI type D and AV cords.
I recommend the Sony Alpha A6100 for starters because the box includes everything needed to get started the moment the package arrives. Alongside the camera body and lens, if you purchased one, the box includes one lithium-ion battery, a charger, a USB cable, a camera lens cap, and a strap. This product also comes with a one-year warranty for labor and parts.
Conclusion
The Sony Alpha A6100 is the best Sony camera for amateur photographers because it offers exceptional image and video quality, intuitive touch and button features, and all types of connectivity options.
I recommend this Sony mirrorless camera to anyone who’s serious about pursuing photography and want to invest in a device that can last them during their journey from an amateur to a professional photographer.
10. Best Mirrorless Camera For Amateur Photographers: Nikon Z50
The Nikon Z50 is one of my top recommendations for mirrorless cameras for amateur photographers. This Nikon is lightweight and durable so that it lasts beginners for years.
This mirrorless camera weighs less than a pound and is easy to carry to different locations. I like how this 9.1 by 9.1 by 9.1-inch camera feels in my hand, it has some bulk, but it helps me hold it steady when I’m not using the camera’s image stabilization features.
The Nikon Z50 has a 3.2-inch flip-down LCD screen. I love using the flip-down feature to take selfies and shoot videos with me in the frame.
This highly-rated mirrorless camera leaves nothing to be desired with professional image quality and features, including some of the following:
- 20.9-megapixel optical resolution
- CMOS (APS C) sensor
- 3.1x optical zoom
- EXCEED 6 Image processing
- 4K UHD video features and 1080p video resolution
- Up to 120 fps
- 11 fps continuous shooting speed
This camera exceeded my expectations with its auto-focus features. With 209 auto-focus points, the Nikon Z50 auto-focuses on the eyes and captures crisp images with every click.
I recommend beginners experiment and explore this camera’s features like the following:
- Vibration reduction
- Two-second timelapse
- Low-light
- Slow-motion
- Silent mode
- 3.5 to 16 mm aperture
One downside of this camera is its mediocre battery life. Typically this camera lasts me around 200 shots before needing a fresh battery or recharge.
The Nikon Z50 fits into budgets of around $1,000, but its durable design means you’ll enjoy it for years. Plus, it comes with a hand and shoulder strap and a one-year warranty for labor and parts.
Delight in the many ways to connect this mirrorless camera to your favorite devices. The Nikon Z50 has Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity, an SD memory card slot, a 3.5 mm audio port, USB ports, and an app with lots of ways to customize shots and share your photos with friends.
Conclusion
The Nikon Z50 is the best mirrorless camera for beginners because it takes epic shots, has a durable design, and has countless ways to experiment with your camera as you learn more about your passion for photography.
11. Best Full Frame Camera For Amateur Photographers: Sony A7R Mark IV
I get excited talking about how amazing the Sony A7R Mark IV mirrorless camera is for beginner photographers that prefer full-frame cameras. This high-quality camera offers some of the best image quality but is better suited for those who’ve saved up for their new camera.
The Sony A7R Mark IV weighs 1.27 lbs and measures 5.13 by 3.88 by 3.13 inches, making this an easy-to-pack camera for those who enjoy taking their cameras everywhere. The tilting three-inch OLED screen makes it easy to switch between the countless features on this device.
The image quality of this camera continually exceeds my expectations. Some of the ways this camera boosts image quality include the following:
- BIONZ X Image processor
- 5-axis image stabilization feature
- 61-megapixel optical resolution
- CMOS sensor
- 4K video resolution
- Red-eye reduction
- Up to 10 fps continuous shooting
- ISO ranges between 50 to 51,200
Delight in the countless auto-focus features with this Sony mirrorless camera. The real-time tracking feature focuses on eyes for portrait photography and moving focal points for sports or nature photos. Plus, this camera has 567-point Phase detection and 425-point Contrast detection auto-focus features.
I get good battery life with my Sony A7R Mark IV, typically around 530 shots per full battery charge or 170 minutes of continuous video shooting time. This mirrorless camera uses lithium-ion batteries, so I carry a spare battery to replace it if it dies during a photo session.
The Sony A7R Mark IV is one of the most expensive amateur cameras on this list, fitting into budgets $3,500 and over. This device justifies its high price tag with incredible features, professional image quality, and a one-year warranty for parts and labor.
Delight in the many ways you can connect to your devices and share photos with friends with this camera. The Sony A7R Mark IV includes WiFi, USB 2.0, USB 3.0, Bluetooth, HDMI, and 3.5 mm audio port connectivity features for fast uploading.
Conclusion
The Sony A7R Mark IV is the best full-frame camera for beginners and those serious about taking professional-quality photographs. This exceptional camera has easy-to-navigate functions that provide hours of fun as you explore different settings and styles.
12. Best DSLR Camera For Amateur Photographers: Nikon D7500
Last but not least, the Nikon D7500 is a fantastic camera choice for amateurs looking for their first DSLR camera.
The Nikon D7500 is a little bulkier than other DSLRs I’ve tried, weighing 1.66 lbs and 5.98 by 7.99 by 7.99 inches. However, it’s still not too heavy for me to hold and carry to different locations.
I’m always tapping away at the 3.2-inch tilting LCD screen with touch functionalities. I’m obsessed with the high-quality images I get with this DSLR camera. Pictures have a 20.9-megapixel optical resolution, and I capture videos with 4K ultra HD resolution. Some of the other ways I get impressive image quality with this camera include the following:
- 1080p video resolution
- 2160p video capture resolution
- CMOS APS-C sensor
- EXPEED 5 Image processing
- 1x optical zoom
- 7.8x digital zoom
- Eight fps continuous shooting
- Auto ISO features for ranges between 100 to 51,200
- Time-lapse videos
- 20-second self-timer
- Red-eye reduction
I recommend the Nikon D7500 to beginners because it has remarkable auto-focus features with 51 auto-focus points and 15 cross-type sensors. Plus, you can manually focus with this camera to hone your eye instead of relying on a device.
The long battery life of this camera makes my life so much easier during busy days when I can hardly spare a second to replace or charge the rechargeable lithium-ion battery. I typically get up to 950 shots with one full battery charge.
This impressive starter DSLR camera fits into budgets from $650 to $1,600, with higher-priced options including additional lenses alongside the camera body.
I get a lot of use with this camera because I love how easy it is to connect to my different devices. This Nikon camera is compatible with SD cards and has USB, HDMI, and AV ports. Plus, there’s a WiFi and Bluetooth connection and a compatible app for easy photo sharing directly from my camera to mine or my friend’s devices.
One of the reasons I recommend this DSLR camera to newbies is its durable build and water-resistant design. Beginners can take this camera out in nearly any kind of weather to capture an epic photo whenever the inspiration strikes. It also comes with a one-year warranty for parts and labor.
Conclusion
The Nikon D7500 is the best DSLR camera for amateur photographers, with an amazing hand feel, long battery life, and exceptional image quality. This highly-rated camera is one of my favorite picks for DSLRs when I need a water-resistant camera for shoots in all weather types.
6 Things to Consider When Buying a Camera For Amateur Photographers
You should consider a few things before investing in the perfect camera choice for a budding photographer.
Firstly, figure out your budget and keep this in mind while considering your preferred camera type, size and portability, image quality, auto-focus features, and battery life.
Below, I’ll go into more detail about the six main things to consider when buying a camera for an amateur photographer.
1. Budget
Beginner photographers must choose between an affordable option for starting, a mid-range camera with room to grow, or an expensive option for long-term use.
Cheap cameras for beginners range between $400 to $700. Above that price range, you’ll find mid-range cameras around $750 to $1000. Still, you can find expensive cameras for amateur photographers that cost over $3,500.
Determining your budget will help you consider your must-have features when buying a camera.
2. Preferred Camera Type
Select the best camera type for you based on your preference. Choose from mirrorless cameras, compact point-and-shoot cameras, DSLRs, or portable action cameras.
Each camera type comes with varying benefits and downsides. For example, action cameras are a great camera type for someone who wants a portable camera with exceptional video-capturing features. However, a compact point-and-shoot camera would better suit an amateur travel photographer.
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The differences between mirrorless and DSLR cameras include more lens options, a longer battery life, and better low-light photos with DSLRs. Meanwhile, mirrorless cameras are more portable and often a better choice for beginners than DSLR cameras due to their small size and smart-connectivity features.
3. Weight and Size
Consider the weight and size of the camera in your online shopping cart before clicking purchase. Look at the product specs for the camera’s size and weight and try to imagine what it will fill like carrying it on your shoulder for a long nature shoot or after holding it for hours during an outdoor photo session.
Portability is an important feature for someone who wants to use their camera on the go. However, some photographers need a great camera for taking selfies or shooting product photos and won’t mind if it’s a bit bulky and has several lenses.
4. Image Quality
Nowadays, it’s easy to find cameras with great image quality, even with budget cameras for amateur photographers. Look for a range of 16 to 60-megapixel optical sensor resolution for great image quality in a camera.
Alongside image quality, look for high video resolution, image stabilization features, quality image processors, and a large ISO range.
5. Auto-Focus Features
Auto-focus features ensure you get a crisp, clear image every time.
The best cameras have a range of auto-focus options with eye detection, face detection, contrast detection, object tracking, and more. Some cameras even include a touch-focus feature where the photographer can select the focal point on the LCD touchscreen.
6. Battery Life
Battery life is an important thing to consider when looking for a new camera. Choose a camera with long battery life, rechargeable batteries, and an easily accessible battery compartment to quickly swap fresh batteries for dead ones.
Final Thoughts
Every photographer will want different things from their camera depending on their needs, subject matter, and style. That said, there are features that the top camera options for amateur photographers have in common, like excellent image quality, auto-focus features, and long battery life.
After trying all the camera options on this list and more, the Canon EOS Rebel T7i quickly became my favorite choice as a beginner. This moderately-priced DSLR camera produces high-quality images that will wow audiences, especially once you’ve gotten used to the camera’s various features.
Whether you or someone you know wants to explore their passion for photography, there’s a great camera option that meets all the requirements for learners. Purchase one of these 12 best cameras for amateur photographers by clicking any of the product links above and get ready to see the world through a new lens.
