Best Camera for Beginners In 2024
Choosing your first camera can be overwhelming, but we’re here to simplify the process. Our guide showcases the top 5 mirrorless cameras for beginners, all under £1000. We break down key features, highlight strengths, and match cameras to different photography styles. Whether you’re into landscapes, portraits, or vlogging, you’ll find the perfect camera to start your photography journey.
Let’s find the best starter camera for you.
1. Canon EOS R100
Best Overall Beginner Camera
Key Features:
- Vari-angle touchscreen
- 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor
- Advanced autofocus system
- 4K video recording
Why We Love It: The R100 offers a perfect blend of image quality and user-friendly features in a compact body, making it ideal for beginners to learn and grow.
Best For: Newcomers to photography who want a versatile, easy-to-use camera with room to develop their skills.
2. Canon EOS R50
Best for Vlogging and Content Creation
Key Features:
- Vari-angle touchscreen and EVF
- 24.2MP APS-C sensor
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF II
- 4K 30p video recording
Why We Love It: The R50’s compact body and advanced video features make it a great choice for aspiring content creators.
Best For: Vloggers and multimedia content creators who need a camera that excels in stills and video.
3. Nikon Z 50
Best for Low-Light Photography
Key Features:
- Tilting touchscreen LCD
- 20.9MP DX-format sensor
- Excellent low-light performance
- 4K UHD video recording
Why We Love It: The Z 50’s sensor delivers outstanding image quality, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
Best For: Photographers who frequently shoot in low-light situations or want to explore night photography.
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Fujifilm X-M5 Silver – Body£799.00
4. Fujifilm X-M5
Best Ultra-Compact Mirrorless for Beginners
Key Features:
- Advanced autofocus with subject detection
- Ultra-lightweight design (355g)
- 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor
- 6.2K video capabilities
Why We Love It: The X-M5 packs professional-grade features into an incredibly compact body, perfect for beginners prioritising portability.
Best For: Travel enthusiasts and street photographers who want high-quality images without the bulk of larger cameras.
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Product on saleSony A6100 Digital Camera Body – Black (ILCE6100B.CEC)Original price was: £679.99.£604.99Current price is: £604.99.
5. Sony A6100
Best for Fast Autofocus and Tracking
Key Features:
- Tilting touchscreen
- 24.2MP APS-C sensor
- Real-time Eye AF and subject tracking
- 4K video capabilities
Why We Love It: The A6100’s fast autofocus and tracking make it easy to capture sharp images of moving subjects.
Best For: Photographers interested in action, sports, or wildlife photography, where quick and accurate focus is crucial.
The above cameras are all excellent choices for beginners looking to start their photography journey. These mirrorless cameras offer a balance of image quality, user-friendly features, and affordability, making them perfect for learning and growing your skills. If you need more help choosing the right cameras – Campkins Cameras is available 7 days a week to help you find the best camera for your needs.
FAQ On Buying Your First Cameras
What should I look for in a beginner camera?
As a beginner, look for a camera with good image quality, user-friendly controls, and the ability to change lenses. Consider factors like autofocus performance, video capabilities, and ergonomics.
Do I need to spend a lot of money on my first camera?
No, you don’t need to break the bank to get a good camera as a beginner. Many entry-level mirrorless cameras offer excellent features and image quality at affordable prices.
What’s the difference between DSLR and mirrorless cameras?
Mirrorless cameras have an electronic viewfinder and no mirror mechanism, making them more compact and lighter than DSLRs. They also tend to have faster autofocus and better video capabilities.
Do I need to buy additional lenses right away?
While you can start with the kit lens that comes with your camera, investing in additional lenses can help you explore different types of photography and improve your skills.
Are these cameras good for video as well?
Yes, all the cameras mentioned above offer 4K video recording and have features like tilting or vari-angle screens, making them suitable for vlogging and video content creation.
Can I share photos easily from these cameras?
Most modern mirrorless cameras, including the ones listed, have built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to easily transfer photos to your smartphone or tablet for sharing on social media.
What accessories should I consider buying along with my camera?
Consider purchasing a spare battery, a memory card with sufficient storage, and a camera bag or strap for protection and easy carrying. A tripod can also be helpful for low-light or long-exposure photography.