What are the best cameras for amateur photographers these days? This is a tough one. Partly because the phrase “amateur photographer” is such a loaded one. When I stopped teaching and started calling myself a “photographer,” guess what? My photography didn’t improve one bit. So I’m not giving the word “amateur” any negative side.
But having considered all the options, I’ve chosen the Sony a6100 as our Top Camera in this category.
At the end of this review, you’ll find some things to think about when choosing the best camera for you. There are many things to consider, but it’s an exciting choice to make.
I’ll never forget the first proper hobby camera I bought. I hope that as we dive into this review, you’ll find yours!
It’s fair to say that none of these cameras will disappoint. But only if you choose carefully according to what you need. Let’s have a look!
Every professional photographer was once an amateur photographer. And the range of interests and subject matters are almost limitless. So your needs will be unique to you. If I were looking for a great camera to use on holiday, but not yet calling myself a “professional,” I’d choose the Sony a6100. I know that I could rely on it for excellent image quality. I also know it would have controllability if I want to manipulate the exposure. And it’s so compact.
For those who think that their photography might get more serious, then the Canon Rebel T100 is a great pick. The same is true of the Nikon D3500, but it opens the door to the Nikon world instead. And finally, for something compact and mirrorless, then give the Panasonic LUMIX DC-FZ80 a look.
This will determine many of your choices. You’ll see from this review that some cameras excel at video recording. If that’s important to you, make it a priority. All these cameras feature built-in Wi-Fi. Other cameras have GPS and Near Field Communication (NFC). How much you want to use these features will have an impact on your choice.
That unique set of needs and wishes that you have? That makes choosing a camera exciting. It’s a golden age, really. All of these cameras deliver performance that was undreamed of when I bought my first digital camera 15 years ago.
Choose the camera that doesn’t just meet your needs. But maybe it excites you a bit too. Because of the way it looks or how it handles. Or you might have a particular liking for the way a particular camera manufacturer processes JPEGs. If you love how Sony photos look straight out of the camera, that’s a bonus.
Photography is a wonderful, creative, and enjoyable hobby. Find the camera that excites you the most. If you’re in need of some more inspiration, try our guide on beginner Sony cameras or the best cameras for jewelry photography next!
