23 Best Cameras for Photography for all Skill Levels

Find the best cameras for photography right here! Interested in flower photography? Want to go pro in macro photography? Or just trying to capture life's best moments? This list includes the best cameras for personal use, beginners, video and burgeoning pros. 

Read on to discover the best camera for your needs, where to purchase and the features you should look out for. 

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• Best Budget Cameras for Photography Beginners
• Best Cameras to Start Professional Photography
• Best Cameras for Personal Use
• Best Cameras for Video

Best Budget Cameras for Photography Beginners

Learning how to become a photographer is a complex process with a high barrier to entry. However, these cameras make the whole adventure easier for beginners! Most quality cameras are extremely expensive, so these offer a more affordable option. 

Want some great tips on how to learn photography for beginners? Look for online photography classes or photography classes near you to learn the basics and search for the used cameras. The budget options below may be pretty pricey for some but the used versions can be just as great at a fraction of the price.  

1. Nikon D3500

Weight: 396 grams

Ideal for: Beginners 

So, what is a good starter camera? Look no further than the Nikon D3500. It’s one of the best cameras for photography beginners seeking a budget-friendly option with excellent image quality.

It features a 24.2MP APS-C sensor, producing sharp, detailed photos even in low light. Its intuitive controls and Guide Mode make it easy to learn the fundamentals of photography, offering step-by-step assistance on different settings.

The lightweight build and ergonomic design make it comfortable for long shoots, while its long battery life ensures you won’t miss any moments. The D3500 lacks 4K video but its 1080p footage is crisp. Ideal for beginners, it’s a fantastic entry point into DSLR photography without breaking the bank.

2. Canon EOS RP

Weight: 440 grams

Ideal for: Beginners 

The Canon EOS RP is an affordable full-frame mirrorless camera that stands out among the best cameras for photography beginners looking to step up their game.

It features a 26.2MP full-frame sensor that excels in capturing dynamic range and low-light detail. The Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system ensures fast and accurate focusing, even in challenging conditions. The EOS RP is lightweight for a full-frame camera and boasts a fully articulating touchscreen, making it ideal for vlogging or self-portraits.

While it shoots in 4K, a heavy crop factor may limit wide-angle footage. Overall, it’s a powerful, budget-friendly entry into full-frame photography.

3. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Weight: 383 grams

Ideal for: Beginners 

This Olympus is among the best cameras for photography enthusiasts on a budget who desire a compact mirrorless option. Its 20MP Micro Four Thirds sensor delivers sharp images with beautiful color accuracy. Lightweight and portable, it’s perfect for travel and street photography.

The camera boasts impressive in-body image stabilization, ensuring clear, shake-free shots even in low light. It includes a range of advanced shooting modes, 4K video capabilities and a flip-down screen for easy selfies or vlogging.

For photography beginners who want versatility and performance in a small package, this camera is a strong contender.

4. Akaso Brave 7 LE

Weight: 608 grams

Ideal for: Beginners 

Discover one of the best cameras for professional photography beginners. The Akaso Brave 7 LE is not a traditional camera; its 4K resolution and electronic image stabilization make it a great budget-friendly option for capturing fast-moving scenes, water sports or outdoor activities. It’s waterproof up to 131 feet with an included case and its dual-screen design allows for easy selfies and vlogging on the go.

The Brave 7 LE may not offer the detailed manual controls of traditional cameras but for beginners looking to document action-packed moments, it provides versatility and durability at an affordable price.

5. Panasonic G100

Weight: 352 grams

Ideal for: Beginners 

The Panasonic G100 is one of the best cheap cameras for photography beginners who also want strong video capabilities in a budget-friendly mirrorless option. It features a 20.3MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, delivering excellent stills and 4K video quality.

The camera is specifically designed with vloggers in mind, offering advanced audio recording with built-in microphones that track sound direction, ensuring clear audio.

The lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry for on-the-go shooting. It also includes a flip-out touchscreen for vlogging or selfies. 

6. Nikon Z fc

Weight: 390 grams

Ideal for: Beginners 

The Nikon Z FC blends classic aesthetics with modern technology, making it one of the best cameras for photography beginners who appreciate style and performance. Inspired by Nikon’s vintage film cameras, it features a 20.9MP APS-C sensor that produces sharp, vibrant images.

The camera’s retro design includes physical dials for ISO, shutter speed and exposure compensation, offering a hands-on learning experience. It’s also equipped with Nikon’s fast and accurate autofocus system, ensuring clear images even in dynamic situations.

The fully articulating touchscreen and 4K video capability make it ideal for content creators and is actually one of the best cameras for personal use. 

Best Cameras to Start Professional Photography

Check out the best cameras for professional photography and videography. Pay attention to the stellar sensors and advanced features. 

7. Nikon Z8

Weight: 910 grams

Ideal for: Intermediate/Professionals

This Nikon is a powerhouse among the best cameras for photography professionals seeking cutting-edge technology in a mirrorless body. Its 45.7MP full-frame sensor delivers outstanding image detail and low-light performance.

Built for versatility, the Z8 supports 8K video recording, making it ideal for both photographers and videographers. It boasts an advanced autofocus system, with 493 focus points and AI-driven subject tracking, ensuring precision even with fast-moving subjects.

The weather-sealed body is suited for demanding shooting environments. 

8. Sony Alpha a6000 

Weight: 344 grams

Ideal for: Intermediate/Professionals 

The Sony Alpha a6000 is one of the best cameras for photography beginners aspiring to move into professional work. Featuring a 24.2MP back-illuminated APS-C sensor, it excels in producing sharp, high-quality images with vibrant colors.

The hybrid autofocus system offers 179-point phase detection and 25 contrast detection points, making it incredibly responsive and ideal for fast-moving subjects. With continuous shooting at up to 11 frames per second, it’s perfect for action photography.

The camera's ISO range of 100 to 25600, which is expandable to 51200. This ensures you’ll always have great performance, even in low-light conditions. 

9. Panasonic S5 IIX

Weight: 740 grams

Ideal for: Intermediate/Professionals

So, what is considered a professional camera? Start with the Panasonic S5 IIX. It’is one of the best cameras for photography professionals who also prioritize video capabilities.

With a 24.2MP full-frame sensor, it excels in both still and video quality, offering excellent low-light performance thanks to its wide ISO range. It features 6K video recording and advanced V-Log/V-Gamut support, appealing to hybrid shooters looking to balance photography with cinematic filmmaking. Its compact and durable body makes it highly portable, while its versatile lens mount opens up a wide range of creative possibilities.

10. Sony A7R V

Weight: 723 grams

Ideal for: Intermediate/Professionals

The Sony A7R V stands out as one of the best cameras for photography professionals who demand the highest image resolution. Its 61MP full-frame sensor delivers breathtaking detail, perfect for commercial, landscape and portrait photography. It boasts improved autofocus with AI-powered real-time tracking, ensuring precision even with complex subjects.

The A7R V also features 8K video recording, making it a top choice for hybrid shooters. With up to 10 frames per second of continuous shooting and a high dynamic range, this camera excels in fast-paced environments while maintaining exceptional image quality. The robust build and extensive weather sealing make it a reliable option for all shooting conditions.

11. Sony A9 III

Weight: 617 grams

Ideal for: Intermediate/Professionals

Check out one of the best cameras for professional photography and videography. The Sony A9 specializes in sports, wildlife or action photography. Its 24.2MP full-frame sensor, paired with an impressive 20 FPS blackout-free shooting, ensures you never miss a moment.

The advanced autofocus system offers 693 phase-detection points and 425 contrast-detect points, providing incredibly accurate subject tracking. With a wide ISO range and enhanced image processing, the A9 III delivers stunning results in both daylight and low-light conditions. Additionally, the camera supports 4K video recording, making it a versatile tool for multimedia professionals.

Its durability, fast performance and reliability set a new standard for high-speed photography.

12. Hasselblad X2D 100C

Weight: 895 grams

Ideal for: Professionals

The Hasselblad X2D 100C is a luxury option and one of the best cameras for photography professionals who prioritize image quality above all else. With an extraordinary 100MP medium format sensor, it offers unmatched detail and dynamic range, ideal for fine art, fashion and commercial photography.

The X2D 100C’s in-body image stabilization ensures that handheld shots maintain sharpness even at slower shutter speeds. Its premium build includes a sleek, minimalist design and intuitive controls, making it as beautiful as it is functional.

The Hasselblad Natural Color Solution provides breathtaking color accuracy straight out of the camera, ensuring the highest-quality images for professional use.

Best Cameras for Personal Use

So, what kind of camera takes very high-quality photos? All of the options on this list! However, the cameras in this section balance quality with usability, as they’re designed to click and shoot, capturing your favorite moments.

13. Your Phone

For many, your phone is one of the best cameras for photography on a personal level. Modern smartphones often feature impressive cameras, boasting multiple lenses and powerful software that can enhance your photography with ease.

With high-resolution sensors, computational photography and AI-based enhancements, your phone can capture vibrant, sharp images in various lighting conditions. Many models also offer wide, ultra-wide and telephoto lenses, making them versatile for all types of photography.

Ideal for casual photographers, it’s a practical, everyday tool for capturing still-life photography and life’s moments.

14. Canon Rebel T7

Weight: 475 grams

Ideal for: Beginners/Intermediate

The Canon Rebel T7 is one of the best cameras for photography enthusiasts looking for a beginner-friendly DSLR. Featuring a 24.1MP APS-C sensor, it produces sharp, detailed images and excels in various lighting conditions.

The Rebel T7 includes a built-in feature guide to help users learn the camera’s settings, making it ideal for personal use. It offers a range of shooting modes and scene presets for different conditions, ensuring versatility for everyday photography.

With its 9-point autofocus system and built-in Wi-Fi, sharing images is a breeze. Compact yet powerful, the Rebel T7 is one of the best cameras for photography and video.

15. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Weight: 383 grams

Ideal for: Beginners/Intermediate

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is one of the best cameras for photography enthusiasts looking for a lightweight, mirrorless option for personal use. With a 20MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, it produces sharp, vibrant images with excellent color reproduction.

The camera's in-body 5-axis image stabilization ensures blur-free photos, even in low-light conditions. Its compact size and retro design make it both stylish and highly portable, perfect for travel, family outings or daily photography. Additionally, it offers 4K video recording, a flip-down touchscreen for selfies and a variety of creative shooting modes. For casual photographers wanting versatility and ease, the E-M10 Mark IV is an excellent choice.

16. Canon Rebel T7i

Weight: 532 grams

Ideal for: Beginners/Intermediate

The Canon Rebel T7i is one of the best cameras for photography enthusiasts who want more advanced features while maintaining user-friendliness. It offers a 24.2MP APS-C sensor and a robust 45-point autofocus system, ensuring high-quality images and fast subject tracking.

The T7i also boasts a vari-angle touchscreen, making it easy to shoot from creative angles, whether for selfies or low-ground photography. Its intuitive interface and built-in tutorials help users master its functions quickly. With 1080p video recording, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, it’s excellent for both photos and video. For those wanting a more sophisticated personal camera than the T7, the T7i offers excellent performance in an approachable package.

17. Fujifilm X-T5

Weight: 557 grams

Ideal for: Beginners/Intermediate

The Fujifilm X-T5 is one of the best cameras for photography lovers who want professional-level image quality in a compact design for personal use. Its 40.2MP APS-C sensor delivers stunning image resolution, perfect for capturing highly detailed scenes.

The camera features Fujifilm’s renowned film simulations, allowing users to create nostalgic, film-like images with ease. The X-T5 also includes advanced autofocus, 6.2K video recording and in-body image stabilization, making it ideal for both photos and video. Its vintage-inspired design is highly appealing, with physical dials that give a tactile shooting experience. Perfect for personal projects or hobby photography, the X-T5 combines performance with style.

18. Panasonic Lumix ZS200

Weight: 340 grams

Ideal for: Beginners/Intermediate

The Panasonic Lumix ZS200 is one of the best cameras for photography enthusiasts seeking a compact yet powerful option for personal use. Featuring a 20.1MP 1-inch sensor, it offers high-quality images and performs well in low light.

The ZS200’s standout feature is its impressive 15x optical zoom lens, which covers a wide focal range from wide-angle to telephoto. It’s perfect for travel and street photography, offering versatility in a pocket-sized camera. Additionally, the ZS200 includes 4K video recording, 5-axis image stabilization and a built-in electronic viewfinder. Its portability and features make it ideal for capturing day-to-day moments or outdoor adventures.

Best Cameras for Video

Check out the best cameras for photography and video right here!

19. GoPro Hero12

Weight: 153 grams

Ideal for: Beginners

The GoPro Hero12 is one of the best cameras for photography and video enthusiasts seeking durability and versatility in extreme environments.

Known for its rugged build, the Hero12 captures stunning 5.3K video at 60fps and 4K video at 120fps, ensuring smooth, high-quality footage. It offers excellent image stabilization with HyperSmooth 6.0, making it ideal for action-packed activities such as surfing, biking or hiking.

Waterproof up to 33 feet without a case, the Hero12 is perfect for outdoor adventures. Its compact size and voice controls make it incredibly user-friendly. GoPros are almost a must and are considered one of the best cameras for professional photography beginners (and videographers). 

20. Panasonic Lumix S5 II

Weight: 740 grams

Ideal for: Beginners/Intermediate

This is one of the best cameras for photography and videography professionals who prioritize both high-quality stills and video. Featuring a 24.2MP full-frame sensor, the Panasonic Lumix S5 II delivers superb image quality and 6K video recording at 30fps, perfect for cinematic projects.

The camera includes advanced phase-detection autofocus and in-body stabilization, ensuring smooth, sharp footage even in challenging shooting conditions. Its compact size makes it highly portable and it supports a wide range of professional video formats, including V-Log and V-Gamut, giving videographers more flexibility in post-production.

The Lumix S5 II is a versatile, powerful tool for both hobbyists and professionals looking to create cinematic-quality video content.

21. DJI Mavic 3 Pro

Weight: 953 grams

Ideal for: Intermediate

Discover one of the best cameras for photography and aerial videography. The DJI Mavic 3 Pro offers professional-grade capabilities in a portable drone. Equipped with a 20MP Hasselblad camera and dual telephoto lenses, it captures 5.1K video at 50fps and 4K at 120fps, delivering sharp, cinematic footage from the sky.

The Mavic 3 Pro's three-axis gimbal ensures stable and smooth video, even in windy conditions. It also boasts intelligent flight modes, including ActiveTrack and MasterShots, enabling automated, professional-quality shots with ease.

Its long battery life and extended range make it perfect for capturing breathtaking landscapes, wildlife or urban scenes from new and exciting perspectives.

22. Sony ZV-E1

Weight: 483 grams

Ideal for: Beginners/Intermediate

The Sony ZV-E1 is among the best cameras for photography and video content creators, offering exceptional video quality in a compact, user-friendly package.

Built with vloggers and filmmakers in mind, it features a full-frame 12MP sensor that excels in low-light conditions, producing stunning 4K video at up to 120fps. The camera includes advanced AI-based autofocus, which tracks subjects with precision and real-time eye autofocus for humans and animals. Its lightweight design and directional three-capsule microphone make it perfect for on-the-go shooting.

The ZV-E1 also includes customizable settings tailored for vlogging, making it ideal for creators looking to enhance their video production.

23. DJI Osmo Pocket 3

Weight: 179 grams

Ideal for: Beginners/Intermediate

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is one of the best cameras for photography and videography enthusiasts who value portability and performance. With its 1-inch sensor, the Pocket 3 delivers sharp, vibrant 4K video at 120fps and its three-axis gimbal ensures smooth, stable footage in any environment.

Ideal for travel, vlogging or personal projects, the Osmo Pocket 3 is small enough to fit in your pocket yet powerful enough to produce professional-grade content. It also includes intelligent shooting modes such as ActiveTrack, FaceTrack and MotionLapse, making it easy to capture dynamic shots. With its compact design and intuitive interface, it’s perfect for creators on the go.

Finally, you’re likely wondering what camera most photographers use. The answer is the best one for your needs! Choose an option from the above list that meets your needs and budget.

For even more camera tips, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!