What camera do you recommend for a beginner?
This is one of the most common questions I get! And it’s a great question. Fortunately, the answer doesn’t require a huge budget.
The camera world has changed dramatically in recent years. Mirrorless cameras have caught up with (and in many ways surpassed) traditional DSLRs. In fact, most of the photographers on our Amy Kimball Photography team have made the switch to professional-grade mirrorless cameras.
We’ve always been Canon fans, but Nikon and Sony also make excellent cameras. Whichever brand you go with, you’ll find strong options at every level—but one of the biggest decisions you’ll make isn’t just the camera body. It’s the lens.
Here’s my #1 piece of advice: skip the kit lens.
The lenses that typically come bundled with beginner cameras (“kit lenses”) often feel like a deal, but they rarely deliver the results you’ll want as you grow. Instead, we recommend buying just the camera body and investing in a simple, high-quality 50mm lens with a wide aperture (like f/1.8). Most brands offer this lens at a very reasonable price point—and it’s worth every penny.
With a 50mm lens, you’ll get beautifully sharp images, more control over depth of field, and a much better opportunity to learn how to work with light. It’s a classic for a reason.
Here’s a link to a 50mm at B&H, which is a great place to buy used equipment! The good news? You do not need to spend a fortune to get started! A newer, entry-level mirrorless camera and one solid lens can take you far. Master those tools first. Spend time learning how your camera works, how light behaves, and how composition affects your final image. Then—and only then—upgrade or add gear when you feel what you’re missing.
Because I truly believe great images don’t come from the best equipment. They come from the photographer’s eye—seeing and understanding light, and knowing how to use the tools you have creatively and intentionally.
But what about the camera?
Now that you understand the importance of that first lens, what camera should you start with? Again, don’t spend a fortune just yet! I highly recommend The Canon EOS R100. It’s a great compact mirrorless that produces clear, dynamic images. It’s well suited for a variety of purposes, whether you’re interested in landscape or portrait photography. Here’s a (not sponsored!) link to find it at B&H.
With just these two items, (or something similar) you’re ready to get started! Get that hobby rolling, or get started professionally! (Or anything in between. 😉 )
And then when you’re ready to take it to the next level, I’m here!
Sign up for a digital photography course or a mentoring session. I’ll explain everything in detail, including additional gear choices, lenses and settings, and (most importantly!) how to develop your eye. I love teaching as much as I love photography itself! And I’d love to help you learn to shoot & edit like a pro. 🙂
