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What Digital Camera Is Best for a Beginner?

By NYIP Staff on September 16, 2020

 What Digital Camera Is Best for a Beginner?
 

So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and get serious about your photography by enrolling in school. A camera is an obviously necessary tool of the trade, but now that this is a more serious endeavor, you may be asking yourself what digital camera is best for someone just starting out? 

There are a lot of options out there with varying price points, so NYIP is here to break down a few of the differences- and advantages- to some of the most popular options. 

  1. Nikon D5600: With a 24 megapixel sensor and a touchscreen to make focusing and snapping a breeze, the Nikon D5600 is considered a good camera for any level photographer. It produces clear, sharp images while coming in at under $600. It also offers free Cloud storage and SnapBridge, allowing you to easily transfer photos to any mobile device via Bluetooth. The downside, though, is that despite video capabilities, this model doesn’t shoot in 4k. 
  2. Nikon D3500: If you’re looking to spend a little less money, a similar option is the Nikon D3500. An entry level digital shooting 24 megapixels, the D3500 is known for its Interactive 'Guide' shooting mode and intuitive sensor. Costing less than $500, it does lack a lot of features such as custom settings and a slower autofocus feature while in Live View. However, it’s tough to beat its combination of price and picture quality. 
  3. Fujifilm X-T200: The X-T200 has a large, 3.5-inch display with a touchscreen in addition to physical controls. Another 24-megapixel sensor, the X-T200 is excellent for color, but its eye sensor isn’t the most reliable and the video feature lacks subject tracking (but does at least shoot in 4k). One of the best-rated digital cameras, the price tag is a bit higher at $700.  
  4. Canon EOS M50: One of the most popular entry-level cameras is the Canon EOS M50 priced at around $650. With a 24-megapixel resolution and 3-inch display, this beginner model offers suggestions and explanations all within the settings menu. Focusing quickly, it’s great for action shots since it boasts the award-winning dual-pixel autofocus, though the lens range and short battery life leave something to be desired. 
  5. Sony A6000: Considered a geriatric model, the Sony A6000 came out about five years ago but is still considered one of the better beginner cameras on the market. Though old, the autofocus system works quickly and, like the newer models on this list, has a 24-megapixel resolution, making it another good choice for those shooting sporting events or children. The video options, however, show the model’s age by only having capabilities of recording Full HD 1080p. Coming in at $449, the A6000 is a model that has withstood the test of time. 

There are many more models on the market and the best option for you may be a personal decision based on budget and need. There are, however, some key features you might want to take into consideration when choosing:  

  • Memory storage 
  • Shooting mode options 
  • Interchangeable lens options 
  • Depth of field preview 
  • Focus points 

Whatever option you choose, the team at NYIP is here to help and support you. If you’re ready to start your path towards a career in photography, contact our admissions team at 1-800-280-1712 or enroll now