Best cameras for first-time amateur photography students – When you want to start a journey in photography, one of the most important things you need is the best camera that will fulfill all your needs, and you can easily navigate it. The market is flowing with a range of products, and it has become overwhelming to choose the best.
If that’s your problem, then this article is your solution. If you are yet to own a camera, I believe you depend on your phone because as time goes on and technology is greatly advancing, phone cameras are also getting better. But while you may get the desired result, there are some restrictions, which means you must purchase a camera. After thorough research, we have outlined some of the best cameras for first-time amateur photography students, so continue reading to get started.
Best Cameras For First-time Amateur Photography Students
To help you choose the best, we have evaluated tons of cameras before choosing these five best so you can rest assured, anyone you choose among them will give you the desired result.
1. Sony ZV-1
One of the best on our list is the Sony ZV-1. Sony ZV-1 is an excellent option, especially if you don’t wish to carry it everywhere you go. The lens in this camera is fixed. it comes with unique features specifically for amateurs like you for both videography and photography.
At a glance
- Design: the Sony ZV-1 looks different from other products manufactured by the brand. It resembles a mirrorless camera even though it features a fixed lens. If you wish to snap yourself, you can easily flip it around to the side.
- Sensor and photography: another unique feature of this device is the sensor. It comes with a 1-inch sensor that also has 20.1MP, which offers incredible photo and video quality. If you snap a picture with it, you will see it looks sharp and clear. If you snap with the Sony Science color, you will have excellent pictures with a good Dynamic range. Of course, you can snap it RAW if you want. It also has a solid lens mechanism aperture ranging from f-1.8 to f-2.8, a built-in 3-stop ND filter image stabilization, and 2.7x optical zoom. To complement this, it has a nice autofocus system that is hybrid, and it works efficiently to snap pictures and videos.
- Videos features: Well photography includes snapping amazing pictures and recording incredible videos. If you want to enjoy some video capabilities using this camera, then you are welcome. It can capture 4K at 24/25/30 FPS and do 1080P at 24/25/30/50/60/120 FPS. With these, you can use slow video motion in full HD. You can also shoot slog2 and slog3 and HDR10 video recordings.
- Battery: this amazing camera doesn’t compromise on the battery capacity too. It has an NP-BX1 cell, and you can shoot over 440 shots or record over 75 mins video after one charge.
Pros
- Fantastic low-light maintenance
- Side flip LCD screen
Cons
- You can’t record the 75 mins video at one time.
2. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III
The second on our list is the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III. For amateur students that want to purchase a mirrorless camera without breaking the bank and compromising on quality and features, then Olympus is the best choice. Although it might not have everything you want, it is still a nice choice, especially if you look at the price, and it’s enough for a beginner in photography.
At a glance
- Design: The design of this beautiful camera resembles that of older SLR cameras. Well, we can safely say they took inspiration from them. This adds handsome retro vibes to the camera, especially if you choose the silver version. Although the camera build isn’t something that will blow your mind, looking at the price, I can say it’s pretty decent.
- Sensor and photography: It uses a 16MP Micro Four Thirds sensor that offers two times crop, unlike a full-frame camera. But what I can assure you is that it has a capable sensor. It can snap clear pictures and videos, the dynamic range is good, and you can capture 12-bit RAW images and 4k videos at 30fps. It can capture 4K at 24/25/30 FPS and do 1080P at 24/25/30/50/60 FPS. You can also do slow Motion video, but to achieve that, you must bring down the resolution to 720P. It uses a BLS-50 battery cell that can snap 330 shots and record up to 140 mins video.
Pros
- It’s lightweight
- It has 5-axis IBIS
Cons
- The battery life isn’t that great
3. Fujifilm X-E3
Fujifilm is also another perfect option for amateur photographers. It can give you some nice photos and videos.
At a glance
- Design: Immediately you look at the Fujifilm, you will feel as if you are looking at a vintage Camera but with some modern touches. It comes with a fixed 3-inch touchscreen, and you can leverage the joystick option if you want a fast autofocusing system. There is a good space between the buttons. on the left side of the camera is the OLED viewfinder, and at the top right corner of the camera are the Q and AF options.
- Sensor and photography: for a starter in the photography field, the device sensor can enable you to capture good low light pictures, and it features X processor pro, and you can get 8fbs.
- Battery: The battery is average, you can shoot up to 350 shots, and you can get an extra battery for it.
Pros
- Joystick AF
- Film simulation modes
Cons
- The design isn’t mind-blowing.
4. Panasonic Lumix G85
This is another good-made mirrorless camera specifically designed for beginners in photography. You can shoot nice pictures and videos using this camera. Even if you want to do some YouTube shots, this camera will do the trick.
At a glance
- Design: from the first look, it has a touch and one button that you can navigate the camera with. It also features a 3-inch flip that is suitable for vlogging. It has different ports available such as USB, HDMI and also comes with an OLED viewfinder.
- It has a 16MP sensor that offers good photos and videos and 5-axis stabilization.
Pros
- It comes with a battery grip that you can use as an extra battery
- You can shoot 4k pictures and videos.
Cons
- The battery life is low.
5. Canon M50
If you are a beginner photography student, then Canon M50 is a great choice for you. The camera is inexpensive, and it is versatile. You can use it to capture photos and videos in 4k quality.
At a glance
- The design combines the traditional Canon products look with some modern touches.
- Sensor and photography: it features one of the largest sensors manufactured by the Canon DIGIC DV 8 sensor, which, if you combine it with the 24MP CMOS, you will get an incredible result. It also has 24.9 megapixels, dual-pixel CMOS AF for quick autofocus.
Pros
- Good sensor
- dual-pixel CMOS AF
Cons
- The battery life is low
Conclusion
Choosing the best camera that will provide you with everything you want as an amateur in photography shouldn’t be something that will give you a headache. In this article, we have discussed different options for you, and the best part of this list is that you can purchase any of them without breaking the bank, so whenever you are ready to make this big decision, you can comfortably consult this list.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I consider when choosing a camera as a first-time amateur photography student?
When choosing a camera as a first-time amateur photography student, consider factors such as your budget, desired features, ease of use, availability of manual controls, lens options, and overall image quality. It’s important to find a camera that suits your needs and helps you grow as a photographer.
Should I prioritize image quality or ease of use when choosing a camera?
Both factors are important, but as a first-time amateur photography student, it’s usually recommended to prioritize ease of use. Look for cameras with intuitive controls, helpful built-in guides, and automatic modes that allow you to focus on learning the basics of photography.
What factors should I consider when choosing a camera as a first-time amateur photography student?
Consider the camera’s ease of use, features, price, and compatibility with accessories and lenses. Also, think about your specific photography goals and whether you prefer a DSLR, mirrorless, or compact camera.
Should I choose a camera with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities?
Having Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities in your camera can be convenient for transferring photos wirelessly to your computer or smartphone, as well as for remote shooting and sharing images on social media. While not essential, it can be a useful feature to have.
Do I need to buy additional lenses for my camera?
It depends on your photography interests and goals. Most entry-level cameras come with a basic kit lens that covers a range of focal lengths. However, if you want to explore different types of photography, such as landscapes or portraits, investing in additional lenses can enhance your capabilities and image quality.
References
Adorama.com – best camera for beginners
Nytimes.com – best budget cameras
Bestoflens.com – best cameras for amateur photographers
Natetorresphotography.com — best camera for amateur photographers
Gigworks.com – best camera for amateur photographers
Recommendations
Best-paying jobs in real estate investment trusts