So many times I’m asked for recommendations for the best cameras to learn on. It’s time to list all my favorites in one place to share with everyone.
For those looking to create with a light weight camera and the power of precision autofocus and video capabilities, mirrorless has become industry standard. Canon is my favorite brand and what I myself learned on. You have the ability to purchase just the camera body and then separate lenses with varying focal lengths. Or you can purchase a kit with everything you need. This camera allows you to shoot in manual or auto mode still photography and video. It can handle low light situations and fast action while also allowing for wireless technology and bluetooth to connect to your devices. Very high resolution image quality.
Canon Mirrorless Complete package option:
For a more affordable option but still an amazing camera is the Canon Rebel. This is what I learned on before photography school and before digital was an option. The Canon Rebel is a DSLR camera with a little more weight but still interchangeable lenses. Shoot in manual or automatic, with clear settings for action, portrait or landscape mode. High image quality and good in low light (this also depends on your lens).
For a light hearted playful experience with no need to check in camera before taking the shot, the new screen free but digital Camp camera is the perfect choice. It comes in a slew of colors but does not offer video. No app is necessary if you’d like to download photos on your phone but you will need a USB-C port. Image quality is slightly lower with a grainy soft focus aesthetic.
Camp Screen Free Digital Camera
For years, I’ve carried the Fujifilm X100f fixed lens camera around when I’m still wanting to shoot but not wanting to carry a heavy camera bag filled with lenses. This mirrorless camera connects to your phone wirelessly using the Fuji app. So while you’re on the fly you can bring high quality photos onto your phone for easy access and social media sharing. Image quality is great with a fixed focal length of 23 mm at f2, making it a 35mm equivalent in full frame terms. It’s a great light weight option. You want to shoot something close up, just move your body closer. You will not have the compressed long focal length look, but with this camera it’s not meant for that.
For the teen looking for instant gratification, the polaroid instant cameras are back! Hang a collage of photos on the wall or scan them with the downloadable app. This camera is a fun in the moment option to bring back actual prints. Complete with on camera direct flash, double exposure capabilities, small range of manual shooting, tripod mount, and self timer.
For film enthusiasts that would like a bit more artsy light leaks and soft focus, the Holga is perfect. A lightweight, toy camera with a single fixed focal length of 35. Shoots in manual and automatic, no video and will be difficult to use in low light. The price is right at $60 but don’t forget you’ll need to purchase 35mm film and then pay to have it sent out and developed.
If film is something your child or yourself would like to explore there are many refurbished used film cameras out there. My favorite to explore is https://cute.camera This women led, philanthropic company is dedicated to restoring older cameras and giving back to their community.
If you’re going the Canon mirrorless or DSLR route and would like other lens options (lenses matter) one of my first fixed focal length lens (great in low light) was the Canon 50mm fantastic plastic. This lens has a quick automatic focus and opens up all the way to f1.8 so great for those darker rooms. You will need to pay attention to which lens mount for the different types of cameras. I’ve provided both links below, the first for the Canon mirrorless R50 and the second for the Canon Rebel.
I hope some of these suggestions help and you’re able to get out and create a little art while photographing the world away from your phone!