What is the best camera for beginners?

So, you've landed on this page because you want to know really is the best camera for beginners? Well, you're in the right place as differently from most articles on google, this guide is written by myself, the owner of an active global video production company. Hopefully this gives you some peace of mind that i'm not a large corporation or camera company deceiving you on what to buy through clever marketing copy.

I'm here to give you the truth, from built-up knowledge of over two decades of using cameras for global clients (National Geographic, Barclaycard & Aviva) and my own personal work. The large corps are very good at 'selling you' their features and dumming them down to make you think that their products are the holy grail, well let me tell you a little secret, all they care about is there back pocket.

So, now hopefully, you trust my opinion a little more on entry-level cameras. Shall we get into it?

What should you know before buying a camera?

If you've never bought a camera before, please read the next three points below. I don't want you to fall into the same traps that I did when I bought my first camera, trust me when I tell you that there are so many traps to fall into!

What will you be using it for & what's your long term plan?

Before you get into your car and drive, do you know where you're going? Most likely, yes. The same rule applies when buying a camera. Think about what you will be using it for & how long will you be using it for that purpose. For example, if you're buying a camera to vlog but also want to shoot professional videos 1 year later, you're looking at two wildly different cameras. So, put some thought into this.

How much do you want to spend?

Camera companies are very good at marketing & selling you the 'beginner friendly' package. I remember when my Stepdad bought me my first guitar when I was 10 years old. It was the classic beginners pack - terrible quality & I didn't use half the things it came with. It lasted me a couple of months until I realised that a slightly better electric guitar would actually help my playing performance. Exactly like when you gamble, have a top budget in mind and stick to it.

Will you be travelling with the camera or filming on the move?

This is very important because the weight of the camera you buy, how compact it is & it's portability can have a huge impact on how you use the camera and what for. The last thing you want to do is buy a heavy camera and have to lug it around everywhere you go and increase you osteopath bill. (I've learned this lesson the hard way!)

My Rating System

Speed To Recording

Durability

Ease Of Use

Price

Editing Ease

Flip Screen Ease

Sound Quality

Number Five - Canon EOS R7 - £1200

A classic DSLR camera that makes an excellent entry-level choice, the Canon EOS R7 is what I’d call the “gateway drug” into proper photography and videography. My first ever camera that I bought was a canon camera! See proof below;

Canon's are generally affordable, have decent resolution, and comes with a kit lens that does the job nicely for portraits and stills. The controls are simple to get your head around, and the optical viewfinder is a nice touch if you’re upgrading from a screen-only experience. Sure, it’s not as flashy as some mirrorless models, but it’s dependable, easy to use, and backed by rave reviews from beginners everywhere. A solid all-rounder that won’t scare you off before you’ve even started - but read on, as there are better in my opinion! (The plus about this camera compared to the others is that you can switch multiple lenses (The Canon RF range is great fyi) and is generally better for photographers than the other cameras  - this is generally what shooting with dslrs are better for!)

If you're a Nikon fan, then we would recommend going for the Nikon Z series, such as the Z5, Z6 or Z50. It's a similar cost and all have aps-c so will provide you will a really decent quality.

The Canon EOS R7 continues to shine with its versatility, especially for newcomers looking for an affordable yet feature-packed camera. One of its standout traits is the ability to swap between multiple lenses, thanks to the Canon RF mount, giving you options for every type of shoot—whether it’s portraits, landscapes, or action-packed moments. The crop sensor works in your favor too, offering a bit of extra reach on your zoom lenses, which is perfect for wildlife or distant subjects. For a DSLR/mirrorless hybrid that doesn’t break the budget, this one’s a solid pick.

Another strong feature of the Canon EOS R7 is its impressive image stabilization, which is a lifesaver for handheld photography and videography. Pair this with its reliable autofocus system, and you’ve got a camera that makes capturing crisp, sharp shots a breeze. The controls are straightforward, with user-friendly dials that let you easily adjust settings on the fly—ideal for someone transitioning from a phone or a simpler camera. It’s a great tool to get hands-on with manual settings and filters, making it a perfect stepping stone into the world of advanced photography.

If you’re exploring alternatives, Fuji’s mirrorless cameras are also worth considering, offering excellent image quality and style for a similar price range. Or, again if you lean more towards Nikon, the Z series (like the Z5, Z6, or Z50) is another fantastic option with an APS-C sensor and plenty of rave reviews. But for those who value a classic DSLR experience combined with the latest tech, the Canon EOS R7 delivers in every way.

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Ratings Out of 10

Speed To Recording - 8/10

Durability - 8/10

Ease Of Use - 8/10

Price - £1200.00

Editing Ease - 8/10

Flip Screen Ease - 7/10 (Good but feels flimsy)

Sound Quality - 5/10 (Use an external mic like a Rode go!)

Number Four - Sony ZV 1 ii - £542.00

So i bought this camera when I first wanted something basic to film vlogs with & behind the scenes footage at my production company. My honest opinion is that it's great, but with a few little hitches, depending on what you want to use it for! It's a compact mirrorless camera jam-packed with features designed for beginners who want to dive into both photography and film. Its autofocus system is so good, it’ll make your smartphone feel like a relic from 2012. The lens range is ideal for portraits, sports, or whatever random thing you decide to photograph. And the fully articulated screen? Perfect for vlogging or checking your hair mid-shoot. It’s lightweight, intuitive, and doesn’t require you to read the manual cover to cover—ideal for people who just want to get out there and shoot.

I really like the skin softening features it came with and honestly when transitioning from sunlight to inside shots, this camera is the best for that - oh yeah, it's got a great zoom on it also!

If you’re a videographer or photographer looking for one of the most versatile compact mirrorless cameras on the market, the Sony ZV-1 II is your new best friend. This Mark II version builds on the success of its predecessor with some standout upgrades, making it a solid pick for anyone with creative needs. The ability to shoot in 4K, coupled with its RAW format support and accurate exposure control, ensures your results are nothing short of stellar.

Let’s talk usability. With a tilting touchscreen that’s intuitive and easy to navigate, you’ve got a lot of control right at your fingertips. The tilting screen makes framing shots from tricky angles a breeze—whether you’re shooting the sky, your subject, or an ad-worthy close-up. The well-placed buttons and a comfortable grip make it feel like this camera was designed to sit perfectly in your hand. Plus, the side-mounted microphone input means your audio game is as strong as your visuals, a must for videographers.

The specifications are impressive too. With 20.1 MP, 315 phase-detection AF points, and presets that allow you to tweak ISO, shutter speed, and aperture, it gives you the tools to create professional-grade content. Battery life is solid for a compact, and if you’re on a long shoot, accessories like extra batteries and mounts are easy to find and order. This gear is also ideal for second-shooter scenarios, where its light weight and small size make it the ultimate companion to your main setup.

Thanks to its appeal and versatile design, the Sony ZV-1 II works for everyone—from first-time content creators to seasoned pros. Whether you're comparing it to models like the Olympus OM-D or even the Mark IV series, this camera holds its ground and offers a lot of value for its price. Check out the links, grab one, and elevate your field of work to a whole new level.

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Ratings Out of 10

Speed To Recording - 8/10

Durability - 8/10

Ease Of Use - 8/10

Price - £542.00

Editing Ease - 8/10

Flip Screen Ease - 7/10 (Good but feels flimsy)

Sound Quality - 5/10

Number Three - Iphone 15 Pro - £1200

Now, hear me out: I know we’re talking cameras here, but if you’re just starting out, why not use the kit you already have? The iPhone 15 Pro gives most entry-level mirrorless and DSLR cameras a run for their money with its impressive sensor and computational photography. Whether you’re snapping stills or filming in cinematic mode, the resolution and autofocus are next-level. Plus, it’s in your hands 90% of the time anyway, so it’s the easiest “camera body” to work with. If you’re new to photography and want an affordable (kind of) option, this is a no-brainer.

Honestly though, if you're completely new to cameras, buying a fancy new camera won't solve your problems is you haven't got the fundamentals of filmmaking down. Such as ideation, storytelling and on-camera personality. We are seeing time & time again great personalities and storytellers thrive on social media and just using their phones to film - put some thought into this!

The iPhone 15 Pro excels in contrast and composition, making even the most mundane shots look professional. Its face-detection phase technology ensures that your subjects are always in sharp focus, whether you're framing a portrait or snapping action shots on the go. For those who are weather warriors, the phone’s durability means you won’t have to worry about light rain or the odd splash ruining your masterpiece.

This isn’t just a camera for convenience—it’s a device with a rich history of redefining photography for the masses. Its versatility and ease of use make it a go-to for anyone wanting to experiment with framing, try out different modes, and create images that tell a story. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer or just someone who wants better holiday pictures, this product delivers on all fronts.

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Ratings Out of 10

Speed To Recording - 8/10

Durability - 6/10 (Definitely buy a case for your iphone - people who don't have cases are crazy)

Ease Of Use - 8/10

Price - £1200.00

Editing Ease - 8/10

Flip Screen Ease - 0/10 (I guess you could argue you have front camera, but on most phones it's terrible!)

Sound Quality - 6/10

Number Two - GoPro Hero 13 - £499.00

Yes, it’s known as the action sports king, but don’t underestimate the GoPro Hero 13 as a beginner vlogging. With its wide range of settings and high-resolution sensor, it’s brilliant for capturing life on the move—whether that’s a skate park trick or just walking your dog. The lens gives that iconic GoPro fish-eye view, but you can tone it down if you prefer less drama in your photos. It’s durable, portable, and totally idiot-proof (trust me, I’ve tested this), which is why it earns a spot on this list.

We use them alongside our more advanced camera in my video agency, as they are so easy to use, but honestly, the footage looks great - I would highly recommend them for an entry-level camera!

The GoPro Hero 13 isn’t just for adrenaline junkies or daredevil stunts—it’s a model that works for plenty of people, including beginners dipping their toes into photography and videography. With its compact design, this little gadget is ideal for travel, capturing those unforgettable moments with ease. The focus is on creativity, offering plenty of options to experiment with light, noise, and dynamic subjects, whether you’re filming wildlife or snapping stills at a family BBQ.

This model is packed with cutting-edge technology, delivering sharp images and videos bursting with detail. It’s a brand that’s been reviewed countless times for its reliability, and honestly, it delivers on everything you'd expect. Add to that its compatibility with a range of accessories—like USB-powered lights, external microphones, and mounts—and you’ve got yourself a versatile tool for capturing just about anything.

The price is fair considering what you get, and the portability alone is worth it. Whether you're hanging off a mountain (or more realistically, strolling through a park), the GoPro Hero 11 is a lightweight, durable companion that brings creativity and ease to every shot.

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Ratings Out of 10

Speed To Recording - 9/10 (Lighting quick!)

Durability - 10/10 (You can drop this off a building and it still be working)

Ease Of Use - 9/10 (Probably one of the easiest camera to use on the market)

Price - 9/10 (Good price!)

Editing Ease - 8/10

Flip Screen Ease - 7/10 (Although the newer ones have the front screen, this definitely isn't flimsy like the others)

Sound Quality - 6/10 (Buy the mic accessory)

Number One - Osmo Pocket 3 - £599.00

If James Bond needed a camera, he’d probably go for the Osmo Pocket 3 - this is the best beginner camera on the markets, here are my reasons.

This tiny little camera packs a punch with its gimbal-stabilised camera body, making it a dream for filming - like actually a dream (PS - I hated it at first, now I love it!) Its compact design means it fits in your pocket (literally), but don’t let its size fool you—the image quality is ridiculously good for such a small system. Perfect for people who want an affordable, user-friendly entry into video without lugging around a DSLR or mirrorless setup. Bonus points for the auto-tracking mode, which honestly is incredible for such a small little camera. Lastly, it comes with a mini tripod too which is great for content creators on the move.

Although in my production camera we use some of the most advanced cameras on the market, i've even bought myself one of these cameras for behind the scenes filming, creating vlogs etc - it's great! (

(Caveat - It's not great if you want to shoot you next award winning photo on it)

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Ratings Out of 10

Speed To Recording - 9/10

Durability - 7/10 (That gimbal feels quite delicate, like it would snap off sometimes)

Ease Of Use - 9/10

Price - £599.00

Editing Ease - 9/10

Flip Screen Ease - 9/10

Sound Quality 8/10 (If used properly it's fantastic)

Authors' Last Thoughts

So, as you can see, there are plenty of options when it comes to finding the best camera for beginners. Whether you’re drawn to compact styles, versatile mirrorless setups, or just thinking about sticking with the incredible cameras built into today’s smartphones, there’s something out there to suit your needs. Hopefully, this review has given you the details you need to make a more informed decision and maybe even sparked some excitement about your first big camera purchase.

Remember, the best camera isn’t just about specifications or price—it’s about finding one that matches your style, feels good in your hands, and helps you capture the moments you care about. If you’re still unsure or want more personalized recommendations, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’d be more than happy to help you navigate the options and get started on your photography or videography journey. Let’s find the right camera for you!