Cameras For Beginner Photographers (37 Photos): How To Choose A Camera For Shooting? Best Professional Cameras For A Beginner

2024 Author: Beatrice Philips | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-01-15 04:10

Each person seeks to realize himself in life, for this someone completely devotes himself to children and family, someone is trying to achieve career growth, but someone finds himself in a hobby. Today, many are fond of photography, as thanks to this hobby it is possible to capture moments that will never be repeated in life. To regularly replenish photo albums with amateur collections, you need to have a practical and reliable device, when choosing which novice photographers need to pay special attention to its functionality.

Peculiarities

The camera is an optical device with which you can take photographs. The first digital camera appeared 30 years ago, it had a simple design and had minimal functionality . To date, devices for shooting have improved and have quality control of photography directly on the display, which ensures a minimum percentage of frames with defects. Those who are just starting out in photography are advised to purchase a camera for a novice photographer. It, like a professional one, provides high-quality shooting, but compared to the latter, it is easy to use and costs less (these are its main features).

The principle of operation of a photographic device for novice photographers is similar to classic models . The main component of the design is considered to be an opaque chamber. As soon as the user initiates shooting, the shutter of the device opens, the light beam enters the camera, forming a picture on the matrix - photography takes place. In addition to the camera, the device includes a diaphragm, an optics system, a matrix, a shutter device and a viewfinder, all these structural elements take part in the process of creating an image.

To enhance the functionality of cameras for novice users, they are additionally equipped with displays, sensors, batteries, flash and built-in memory card.

Views

Now the market is represented by a huge selection of cameras, with models for novice users being especially popular. They are equipped with all the necessary functions, provide quick snapshots, instant deletion of unsuccessful frames, can be connected to both a computer and a TV . Depending on the design features, such devices are available in several types, each of which is characterized by its own characteristics.

Compact

This type of cameras is characterized by small dimensions and weight. Their design includes a permanent lens and a medium sensitivity sensor. As for the viewfinder, most models do not have one. Ergonomics is considered the main advantage of compact products ("soap dishes"). The disadvantage of such devices is the low speed of photography and the fact that excellent photos can be obtained only in bright light.

Compact cameras come with several photography modes and focal length settings.

Mirrored

These devices are especially popular with professional photographers, but they are also quite suitable for beginners. Unlike compact devices, these devices are versatile and can provide shooting of static scenes and moving objects . The main feature of these devices is the presence in the design of matrices with decent resolution, an optical viewfinder and removable lenses. Thanks to the mirror system, the image is fixed at an angle of 45 degrees, and before fixing it passes through the optics system. The main advantages of SLR cameras include high shooting speed, excellent images, minimal power consumption, the ability to control the depth of field and take shots in RAW format. As for the shortcomings, then these devices are not entirely convenient to use, since they have impressive dimensions and weight (in some models it is about 15 kg).

Besides, the price for such devices is too high.

Mirrorless

By its principle of operation, this type of device is in many ways similar to SLR cameras, but they are small in size, there is no pentaprism and a movable mirror. These cameras are compact, so it is very convenient to carry them with you. The main advantage of mirrorless cameras is the simple operation, although they have many advanced features and built-in functions . It is also worth noting that the choice of lenses for them is quite extensive.

Minus - fast battery drain - electronic viewfinder and sensor work in constant mode.

Top best models

Cameras for newbies in photography come in a huge assortment from different manufacturers, with each model having its own advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, if this device is purchased for the first time, then it is important to pay attention not only to its performance characteristics, but also to user reviews. Below is a rating of the most popular models that have proven to be of high quality.

Canon EOS 800D KIT (Japan)

This is a budget version of the device, which is considered the "golden mean" between the semi-professional and amateur categories. The design of the device has a classic SLR and a viewfinder, thanks to which you can get perfect sharpness. There is no focusing with the choice of a direct point in this model, in addition, the rotary screen does not allow the horizon to be "overwhelmed ". Advantages - all settings can be controlled through special applications in the smartphone, high image quality, 1080p video recording at 60 frames per second, audio jack and video stabilization.

Disadvantages - there is no protection against moisture and dust.

Nikon D610 Body (Japan)

Inexpensive camera with a full-frame 24 megapixel sensor. The manufacturer releases it with two slots for memory cards and a built-in 24 * 36 mm CMOS sensor with an expansion of 24 megapixels. Besides, the device is equipped with an Expeed 3 processor, thanks to which high-quality images are obtained … Pros - ergonomic body, high-quality viewfinder, quiet shooting mode.

Cons - AF points are grouped close to the center of the frame, so getting the focus right takes some getting used to.

Sony Alpha Ilga-68 KIT (Japan)

Considered the best professional model for aspiring photographers. Despite the fact that the device is presented in a light version, more suitable for beginners, it is often chosen by mature photography masters. The proprietary device has a small 2.7-inch swivel screen (its width is reduced), as well as a lightweight body, thanks to which it is convenient to take photos . Photos on such a camera are of high quality only in jpeg format. The advantages of the model include a wide range of settings, which allows you to achieve an excellent balance between colors.

The disadvantage is the cost is higher than average.

Pentax KP KIT (Japan)

This is one of the most popular models and is in great demand among aspiring photographers. The device has a high sensitivity to light, has an excellently thought-out personalization with removable overlays . The manufacturer equips the camera with three interchangeable grips, which differ in configuration, allowing the photographer to adapt the body to his hand. The device has many setting options and function buttons. Advantages - silent shooting, high-quality images, the ability of the matrix to adjust the tilt angle up to 1.5 degrees.

The downside is the high cost.

Ricoh GR II (Japan)

Compact model that fits easily even in a trouser pocket. The setting of aperture and shutter speed is carried out manually, which causes some inconvenience during use. The sharpness of the photos is very high, this also applies to the reproduction of colors, which is flawless . The battery capacity is designed for 320 photos, if you plan to take more photos, you can additionally buy a spare battery. Advantages - high quality and trouble-free operation, convenient button layout, fast focusing.

The disadvantage is that it is not equipped with an image stabilizer.

Leica Q TYP 116 (Germany)

This small and lightweight camera will impress any amateur photographer, as it allows you to create high-quality images of city streets, landscapes and portraits. The device fits comfortably in the hand, equipped with summilux 1: 1 optics, which allows excellent color reproduction and image detail . The touchscreen of the device, three inches, can cope with the viewfinder function, the settings and control buttons are placed very conveniently. Pros - ergonomics, good stabilizer, high quality image.

The downside is the high price.

Panasonic DC-GX9 (Japan)

This camera is classified as a mirrorless type, it is produced with aperture ranging from 3.5 to 5.6, focal length from 12 to 60 cm. The lens of the device is made of high quality plastic, equipped with a metal mount. The device reproduces colors naturally, excluding oversaturation of any one shade . Advantages - high quality of videos and pictures, ergonomics, a huge range of settings, a rotary touch screen.

Disadvantages - weak battery, poor performance in dark rooms.

Olympus OM-D E-M10 MARK III KIT (Japan)

While this model is better suited to beginner photographers, it can also be used by artisans for technically challenging shots. The device is small in size and very convenient. The device provides for the Advanced Photo menu, thanks to which beginners can try themselves in multiple exposure mode, collage and Live Time . Advantages - silent shooting, convenient distortion correction, extended depth of field.

There are no downsides.

Fujifilm X-T100 KIT (Japan)

This model is distinguished by an original retro design, which is stylized as classic film cameras. This mirrorless camera has built-in presets, thanks to which you can save a set of settings. The camera allows you to take high quality photos and is easy to use.

The price is above average.

Selection criteria

For many, photography is considered more than a hobby. Although this activity is considered, at first glance, simple, it still requires experience and a good camera, which can be difficult to choose the right one. Before making a choice in favor of a particular model, it is necessary to determine its purpose and cost . If the device is needed only for creating amateur photographs, then you can buy ordinary "soap dishes" - mirrorless and mirrorless, with removable optics and manual control mode.

In addition, it is worth paying attention to a number of technical characteristics

Camera type . Experts recommend that beginners choose compact models, since they are easier to master than mirror ones. Over time, simple devices can be replaced by models with a wide range of settings and functions. SLR cameras provide more opportunities to shoot in different genres (sports, landscape, portrait), but for long journeys they will be heavy and in these cases it is best to buy "soap dishes".

As for mirrorless cameras, they are inexpensive, provide high-quality images, in no way inferior to professional devices.

Ergonomics and convenience . It often happens that an excellent camera simply does not fit in the hand or its buttons are inconveniently located. Therefore, before purchasing this type of equipment, you must choose the most suitable option for yourself, so that in the future it is comfortable to use it.

Matrix size . This element is one of the main ones in the device, it consists of many microcircuits. It is not recommended to purchase a device with a full-frame sensor, which is usually equipped with professional models.

It is advisable to start with a non-full-frame sensor.

Expansion and working value of the matrix . Cameras for beginners should have a resolution of no more than 16 megapixels. If it is still unknown in what conditions and what kind of pictures you plan to take, then it is best to choose a mirror type camera with the highest ISO value.

They, even in low light, will provide high-quality images.

The ability to clean the matrix from dust . When buying this type of equipment, you should ask a consultant about the availability of the function of self-cleaning of the matrix from dust in it.

This is very important, because during photo shoots, when changing optics to the matrix, dust can get in, which will be noticeable in all photographs.

The presence of a reference data item in the menu . Thanks to this information, it will be easier for novice photographers to learn the built-in functions of the technique.

Zoom . For beginners, it is best to choose 3x zoom cameras that have the ability to change lenses.

The duration of the battery life . Since beginners at first will have to take a lot of frames to get a photo with the desired effect, then you should select device models with the maximum battery capacity.

The presence of autotuning . Novice photographers will find it much easier to work with cameras that automatically set parameters such as sports, portrait and landscape.

Possibility of changing optics . Today on sale you can find many models of cameras with mounting devices, thanks to which you can effortlessly change optics.

Determination of exposure and focus . With these two functions, it will be very easy for a beginner to take photos. In addition, it will not be superfluous if the device also provides a video function.

This will allow you to record various clips.

Weight and dimensions . Many consider these indicators to be secondary, in fact they are not. Sometimes you have to wander for hours with the camera along the most difficult routes, and its large size and weight can cause a lot of inconvenience. It is advisable to choose smaller models, although any high-quality technique tends to be both weighty and large at the same time.

Price . It plays a huge role when choosing a camera and is determined not only by the functionality of the model, but also by the manufacturer's brand. Experts recommend choosing mid-range cameras, the manufacturers of which have received many positive reviews.

For novice photographers, don't buy too expensive models right away.

You can find out how to properly set up your camera below.