By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
In today’s digital age, capturing memories with a camera is more popular than ever. While smartphones offer convenient photo options, DSLR cameras provide exceptional image quality and creative control, perfect for those who want to elevate their storytelling.
As a photographer and photojournalist for over a decade, I’ve compiled a list of beginner-friendly DSLR cameras. However, it’s important to acknowledge the rise of mirrorless cameras, which many manufacturers are prioritizing.
DSLRs Offer a wider range of affordable, high-quality lenses. They have a traditional optical viewfinder, which some photographers prefer. However, their bulkier size and potential for mirror slap (vibration) can be drawbacks.
On their part, Mirrorless Cameras are generally lighter and more compact. They offer electronic viewfinders (EVFs) that provide a live preview of your image with adjustments reflected. However, the lens selection for entry-level mirrorless cameras might be more limited, and some users may find the EVF less intuitive.
Despite the mirrorless trend, DSLRs remain a viable option for beginners due to several factors: Amazing Prices: Especially on the used market, DSLRs offer fantastic value. Extensive Lens Selection: DSLRs often have a wider range of compatible lenses, giving you more flexibility in exploring different photographic styles. Lenses are often considered a long-term investment, so a good DSLR paired with a versatile lens can be a cost-effective setup.
Entry-level DSLRs are still a fantastic way to capture high-quality images at a budget-friendly price. However, with the evolving camera landscape, consider exploring mirrorless options alongside DSLRs.
Remember, the best camera is the one that you’ll use consistently and enjoy learning with.
Nikon D3500 W/ AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Black
This camera is very easy to use and has helpful guide modes to walk you through settings. It produces good quality photos, especially considering its affordable price tag.
Strengths:
Very easy to use with guide modes.
Affordable price.
Good image quality for beginners.
Properties:
24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor.
11 autofocus points.
Full HD (1080p) video at 60 fps.
No touchscreen display.
Limited button customization.
Deals on Amazon at https://amzn.to/3xU1uFM
CANON EOS Rebel SL3 DSLR Camera, Built-in Wi-Fi, Dual Pixel CMOS AF and 3.0 inch Vari-Angle Touch Screen, Body, Black
This Canon is another great option for beginners with a user-friendly interface and helpful shooting modes. It also has a vari-angle touchscreen display that can be helpful for composing shots at different angles.
Strengths:
User-friendly interface with helpful shooting modes.
Vari-angle touchscreen display for easy framing.
Compact and lightweight.
Properties:
- Sensor: 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor
- Image Processor: DIGIC 8
- Autofocus: 9-point phase-detection autofocus system with Dual Pixel CMOS AF
- Continuous Shooting: Up to 5 fps
- LCD Screen: 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen with 1.04 million dots
- Video Recording: 4K UHD at 24 fps, Full HD (1080p) and HD (720p)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi with NFC
Deals on Amazon at: https://amzn.to/49ZXfFL
Canon EOS Rebel T6i Digital SLR with EF-S 18-55mm is STM Lens – Wi-Fi Enabled
This Canon offers a vari-angle touchscreen LCD: This allows for comfortable shooting from various angles and intuitive control through the touchscreen interface.
Built-in Wi-Fi with NFC: Easily share photos and videos wirelessly to your smartphone or tablet for instant sharing.
Strengths:
Image quality: Great image quality for its class, thanks to the high-resolution sensor and DIGIC 6 processor.
Usability: Easy to use with a vari-angle touchscreen and helpful automatic features.
Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC make sharing a breeze.
Properties:
- Sensor: 24.2 megapixel CMOS (APS-C size)
- Image Processor: DIGIC 6
- Autofocus: 19-point all cross-type phase-detection system
- Continuous Shooting: Up to 5 frames per second (fps)
- LCD Screen: 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen with 1.04 million dots
- Video Recording: Full HD (1080p)
- ISO: 100-12800 (expandable to H:25600)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi with NFC
- Battery: LP-E8 rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Weight: Approximately 470 grams (body only)
Deals on Amazon at https://amzn.to/3UcO3Z3
Nikon D5600
This Nikon offers helpful features for beginners like a vari-angle touchscreen and built-in Bluetooth.
Strengths:
Helpful features like vari-angle touchscreen and Bluetooth.
Longer battery life compared to some on this list.
Properties:
- Sensor: 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor (DX-format)
- Image Processor: EXPEED 4
- ISO: 100 – 25600
- Autofocus: 39-point Multi-CAM 4800DX autofocus system with nine cross-type points
- Continuous Shooting: Up to 5 fps
- LCD Screen: 3.2-inch vari-angle touchscreen with 1.037 million dots
- Video Recording: Full HD (1080p) up to 60 fps
- Connectivity: Bluetooth
Deals on Amazon at https://amzn.to/4aXTDWs
Pentax K-70
This Pentax is a well-built camera with weather-sealed body, which can be a plus if you shoot outdoors a lot. However, it doesn’t have a touchscreen display and may have a steeper learning curve compared to the others on this list.
Strengths:
Well-built camera with weather-sealed body (good for outdoor use).
Large optical viewfinder.
Properties:
- Sensor: 24.24MP APS-C CMOS sensor
- Image Processor: PRIME MII
- ISO: 100 – 102400 (for low-light shooting)
- Autofocus: 11-point SAFOX X phase-detect autofocus system with nine cross-type points
- Continuous Shooting: Up to 6 fps
- LCD Screen: 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen with 921,000 dots
- Video Recording: Full HD (1080p) up to 30 fps
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi
Deals on Amazon at https://amzn.to/4aPJ0ox
Remember: When choosing a camera, consider lens selection: What kind of photography interests you? Choose a system with affordable lenses for your needs. Battery life is also Important and video features: Consider video quality and features if video is important to you.
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