Jumping into the world of photography can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available. To point you in the right direction we’re happy to share with you a breakdown of the various digital cameras available and some recommendations to get you started.
Before immediately diving into the options available, it’s helpful to narrow down your criteria and be sure what your needs are:
- What kind of photos do you plan to take?
- Is this your first camera?
- How long do you plan on using this camera?
- What kind of environments were you planning on taking photos in?
Taking these questions into consideration will give you some direction around whether you go for a Mirrorless & DSLR, or a Compact Camera. If you’re after a simple and lightweight camera, then a Compact would be the best option. Whereas a Mirrorless or DSLR offers you flexibility and a wider range of photography styles.
Compact Cameras
Lightweight and easy to use, Compact Cameras are also called point and shoot cameras as literally all you need to do is point and shoot. However, compact cameras have developed over the years, with high-end compact cameras being built with larger sensors, longer zooms and additional manual controls. These features do add extra weight and bulk, so keep this in mind if you’re after a truly compact camera. If you’re interested in the more high-end compact camera models, it’s also worthwhile considering an entry-level mirrorless or DSLR camera, as both offer the same features but with the option to change lenses.
Is it for you?
If you’re a casual photographer after a lightweight, easy to use and store camera, go for a compact camera.
Our Recommendations
For the casual photographer, the Panasonic Lumix TZ90 Compact Zoom and Canon PowerShot SX740 Super Zoom tick the boxes for easy to use & carry, while the Nikon Coolpix P950 is capable of longer zooms to get closer to your subjects.
DSLR Camera
The preferred choice for both passionate hobby and professional photographers, DSLRs are the original interchangeable lens camera. Built with adjustable settings such as shutter speed, exposure, aperture, as well as the option to change out lenses. These settings are what enable you to capture epic astro/night sky, motion shots or make awesome edits. DSLRs also come with an intelligent mode that adjusts these settings for you automatically. DSLRs also have a wider range of lenses available, as well as superior battery life to Mirrorless Cameras.
Is it for you?
If you’re a beginner, professional, or hobbyist wanting to capture high-quality images, shoot for long periods and have the flexibility to change lenses or manually adjust settings a DSLR is your best bet.
Our Recommendations
Entry: Canon EOS 3000D or Nikon D3500.
Mid: Canon EOS 850D or Nikon D5600.
Enthusiast: Canon EOS 90D or Nikon D7200.
Mirrorless Camera
The latest addition to the digital camera family, a Mirrorless Camera is like a DSLR as both feature interchangeable lenses and manual settings. Unlike a DSLR, which uses a mirror to reflect an image into an optical viewfinder, a mirrorless camera uses a sensor to feed through to an electronic viewfinder or LCD screen. For this reason a Mirrorless Camera is lighter and more compact then a DSLR, giving you the control and customisation of a DSLR in a compact and lighter body.
Is it for you?
If you’re a beginner or professional looking for a lightweight camera that can deliver high-quality images, give the flexibility to change lenses, and manually adjust settings, then a Mirrorless Camera is for you.
Our Recommendations
Entry: Canon EOS M50 MKII, Nikon Z50, Sony Alpha A6100, Panasonic Lumix G100 or Fujifilm X-T200.
Mid: Canon EOS M6 Mark II, Nikon Z 5, Sony A6400 or Panasonic Lumix G85.
Enthusiast: Canon EOS RP, Nikon Z 6, Panasonic Lumix G95 or Fujifilm X-S10.
If you’re still uncertain of what camera to purchase, want to get a feel for how they operate, or talk out your options, head in-store and talk to one of our knowledgeable computers team members today.
