Top tips
The Best Camera and Lens Combinations for BeginnersAre you a beginner looking for suggestions on what should be your first camera? I have rounded up my top 3 budget and top 3 investment cameras to start you on your journey. You are also welcome to join my beginners photography group here which is a free group sharing photography tips and inspiration.
The 3 most recommended lower budget cameras
1. Canon EOS Rebel T7 With 50mm Lens
Cost approx £400 new (£250 used) for the camera with kit lens, an additional £100 for the 50mm 1.8 portrait lens.
The Rebel T7 is budget-friendly, making it an accessible DSLR for beginners who want to explore photography without a significant investment. Bundling it with the “nifty fifty” 50mm f/1.8 lens provides excellent value, as this lens is versatile and delivers professional-looking results.
The 24.1 MP APS-C sensor produces sharp, vibrant, and detailed photos, ideal for everything from portraits to landscape. The T7 offers full manual control over settings like shutter spmm f/1.8 lens. The T7 is straightforward, making it easier to dive into the basics without getting tangled in complex settings. The 50mm f/1.8, often called the “nifty fifty,” is ideal because it’s sharp, handles low light nicely, and, since it doesn’t have zoom, it naturally encourages you to move around to find the best angle.
“For beginners, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 with a 50mm f/1.8 lens is an excellent choice due to its simplicity, affordability, and quality. This setup is what we often recommend to people who want to capture memorable moments.. The Rebel T7 offers user-friendly controls and high-quality images, while the 50mm lens performs well in various lighting conditions and creates a beautiful depth of field. This combination allows beginners to learn photography fundamentals while capturing stunning photos that look professional. It’s an ideal setup for those eager to explore photography without overwhelming complexity.”
George Silagadze, Co-founder & CEO, Photo2painting
“For a beginner photographer, the right camera and lens combination can truly make or break the initial experience. Based on my years of nurturing talent and innovation at Kate Backdrops, I recommend starting with a camera like the Canon EOS Rebel T7 or the Nikon D3500. These models provide a wonderful balance of accessibility and functionality, perfect for getting the hang of more advanced photography techniques.
Pair these cameras with a versatile lens like the 18-55mm kit lens. It’s adaptable for various scenes, making it ideal for beginners who want to explore different types of shots without immediately investing in a whole suite of lenses. This combination encourages learning through experimentation, allowing new photographers to capture moments and craft their unique storytelling style confidently.
Trust me-this setup prioritises learning and creativity, setting a solid foundation for developing a personal photographic vision. Remember, photography is not just about gadgets but about capturing the world through your perspective, and this beginner-friendly combination gives you the right tools to start your journey.”
David Zhang, CEO, Kate Backdrops
“A good choice for photography newbies would be the Canon EOS Rebel T7 paired with a 50mm f/1.8 lens. The T7 is straightforward, making it easier to dive into the basics without getting tangled in complex settings. The 50mm f/1.8, often called the “nifty fifty,” is ideal because it’s sharp, handles low light nicely, and, since it doesn’t have zoom, it naturally encourages you to move around to find the best angle.
This setup helps beginners learn key skills without feeling overwhelmed. This movement helps build a natural sense for composition. This combo lets beginners capture quality photos while staying focused on developing skills, rather than on figuring out a complex camera.”
Kaz Marzo, Operations Manager, Image Acquire
2. Canon Powershot SX70 Bridge camera
Cost approx £570 with lens new – £400 used in excellent condition.
If you are looking for an all in one camera with super zoom then the Canon Powershot might be exactly what you are looking for. The Canon PowerShot SX70 HS, with its extensive zoom range, easy handling, and rich feature set, is perfect for beginners who want to explore photography without the commitment of a DSLR system. For photographers prioritising versatility, portability, and cost-effectiveness, a bridge camera is an excellent alternative
The SX70 features a 65x optical zoom (equivalent to 21-1365mm), allowing beginners to shoot wide landscapes and extreme telephoto shots without changing lenses plus weighing less than most DSLRs, the SX70 is easier to carry around, making it ideal for beginners on the go.
The 20.3 MP sensor delivers sharp photos with excellent colour reproduction – It supports 4K video recording, a rare feature in cameras at this price point, allowing beginners to explore video creation. Finally it has built in Wifi and Bluetooth Connectivity and a long lasting battery.
Why choose a Bridge Camera vs a DSLR?
For those who don’t plan to delve into the technical side of photography but still want great results, a bridge camera provides simplicity and quality in one device.
Bridge cameras like the SX70 eliminate the need for multiple lenses, reducing cost and complexity. Additionally few DSLR setups can match the 65x optical zoom of the SX70 without investing in expensive, bulky telephoto lenses.
3. Canon EOS R10
Cost approx £650 for the camera with kit lens, an additional £100 for the 50mm 1.8 portrait lens.
Praised for its compact build, ease of handling, and modern autofocus system, the R10 is accessible and offers impressive image quality. It’s often noted as an ideal choice for those starting out due to its balanced features and room to grow.
It has a user friendly design with straightforward menus and designs and at just 429g (body only), it’s portable, which is ideal for travel and daily use. It produces sharp detailed images with the 24.2MP APS-C Sensor and has an excellent dynamic range. It also have fast and reliable autofocis with eye and subject tracking which is especially useful for portraits, pets, and sports photography. It also offers high-quality video with excellent detail aand Shoots Full HD at 120fps for creative slow-motion footage. It has a RF Mount: which Works seamlessly with Canon’s growing range of RF lenses and you can use an adapter for EF/EF-S Lenses: Allows you to use older lenses, adding versatility and cost-effectiveness. Finally it has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Enables quick sharing to smartphones and remote shooting via the Canon Camera Connect app and USB-C Charging: Convenient for charging on the go.
“For a beginner photographer, I’d recommend a mirrorless camera. I personally like Canon for it’s quality & simplicity. Canon EOS R10 is a good starting point. As for lenses, you would want something with Versatility, like a Canon RF-S 18-150mm.
Nadia Palma, Photographer, Nadia Palma Photography
The 3 most recommended cameras for bigger budgets
1. Sony A7iii
Camera approx £1400 new or £1000 used.
The Sony A7iii is a full frame camera and has a 24.2 MP sensor which means better detail, depth, and noise control, allowing beginners to capture professional-grade photos.
The camera has 693 phase-detection and 425 contrast-detection AF points, covering 93% of the frame for precise focus tracking. Real-Time Eye AF and Animal Eye AF make it easy for beginners to capture sharp portraits and wildlife shots effortlessly.
Despite being a full-frame camera, the A7 III is compact and lightweight, making it ideal for travel and everyday shooting. Plus with a native ISO range of 100–51,200 (expandable to 50–204,800), the A7 III excels in low-light conditions, making it ideal for night photography. If you are planning to take photography seriously and may wish to become a professional this camera is a way to future proof your investment.
“For a beginner/intermediate photographer, I’d recommend starting with a Sony A7iii-it’s the camera I began with, and it’s an incredibly versatile option. The A7iii offers excellent image quality, impressive autofocus, and strong low-light performance, which can suit a wide range of photography styles as you explore what you’re most interested in.
If you’re considering lenses, it really depends on the type of photography you’d like to focus on. As a sports photographer, I first purchased the Tamron 70-180mm lens, which is a great, budget-friendly alternative to Sony’s own lenses. This lens gave me the reach I needed for capturing action shots without breaking the bank. Once I started getting more consistent clients, my next investment was a 24-70mm lens. This added versatility, allowing for more intimate shots and expanding my work to other genres, like event and food photography.
For beginners, I’d suggest starting with a versatile lens that aligns with your interests, and consider a flash if you’re looking into events or indoor shoots. It’s all about gradually building your kit as your style develops and your client base grows.”
Luke Scorsonelli, Photographer, Baller Studio – Sport Photography
2. Fujifilm X-T50 kit and xf35mmF2
Camera approx £1400 new or £1000 used.
The Fujifilm X-T50 with XF 35mm f/2 lens is an ideal combination for beginners who value portability, creative control, and stunning image quality. Its intuitive design and rich features make it an excellent starting point for any aspiring photographer. The X-T50 is small and portable, making it easy to carry for everyday use or travel. Its retro-inspired design is visually appealing and ergonomically designed for comfortable handling.
The 26.1 MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor produces sharp, vibrant images with excellent detail and dynamic range. The XF 35mm f/2 lens, equivalent to 52mm on full-frame, delivers natural-looking images with a pleasing depth of field and beautiful bokeh. Fujifilm’s unique film simulations let beginners experiment with classic film looks like Provia, Velvia, and Acros without post-processing. This encourages creativity and allows users to achieve stunning results straight out of the camera.
“Believe it or not this is more of a personal question than a technical. Nowadays, all cameras are pretty advanced from a technological perspective, to the point that you really can’t go wrong. I suggest getting a camera in your hand and seeing how it feels. You have to ask yourself, do I want to carry this around? For years I shot with Canon full frame camera and all the lenses and it was great. But, I found myself always reaching for my smaller Fujifilm cameras and my full frame system just started collecting dust. Finally I sold it and just committed to the camera that i genuinely enjoyed using.
If you have a camera store close by go and hold one, see how it makes you feel. If you don’t have a camera store, there are lots of places online that you could rent a camera and try it.
It’s a little difficult to switch camera systems once you’re invested. Not impossible, but difficult. So really ask yourself some questions.
- How am I going to use this?
- What am I photographing?
- How portable do i need it to be?
- Do you have any physical limitations that could make it harder to use?
Answer those questions and hold the camera first. “
Chris Fain, Owner, Chris Fain Photography
3. Fujifilm X-T3
Camera approx £1000 new or £600 used.
“If you’re a beginner photographer looking to invest in your first serious camera, look no further than the Fujifilm X-Series. This line of cameras strikes an impressive balance of power, design, functionality, and affordability, making it an outstanding choice for those just starting their photographic journey.
For newcomers, I highly recommend the Fujifilm X-T3, X-T5, or X-H2. These models are packed with features that cater to both beginners and more experienced users while maintaining a user-friendly interface.
To complement your camera body, consider the 18-135mm zoom lens. This versatile lens covers a wide range of focal lengths, allowing you to shoot everything from sweeping landscapes to intimate portraits. With this combination, you can explore various photography styles without the hassle of changing lenses constantly.
One of the standout features of the X-Series is its lightweight and compact design. This makes it easy to carry around for long periods, perfect for travel or street photography. The camera’s ergonomic grip is especially beneficial for those with smaller hands, ensuring comfort during extended shooting sessions.
Don’t let the APS-C sensor size deter you. The Fujifilm X-Series delivers stunning image quality with high megapixel counts and impressive sharpness. Your photos will shine on social media and can even be printed in large formats without losing detail. Trust I have sold landscape shots printed as large as 50×30 and they are razor sharp with minimal processing.
The X-Series beautifully combines vintage charm with modern functionality. Its classic dial controls offer an engaging shooting experience, allowing you to operate the camera manually or switch to fully automatic modes as needed. This versatility makes it easy for beginners to learn the fundamentals of photography while enjoying the tactile feel of traditional controls.
The Fujifilm X-Series is an ideal choice for beginner photographers. With its accessible price point, excellent image quality, and inspiring design, it encourages creativity and exploration in photography. Remember, the best camera is one that you’ll use regularly- and with the X-Series, you’ll want to have that camera around! “
Greg Ghia, Photographer, Greg Ghia Fine Art Photography
Additional options and tips for choosing the right beginner camera for you.
Canon EOS Rebel T8i With 18-55mm Lens
For a beginner photographer, I highly recommend the Canon EOS Rebel T8i paired with the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens. This combination strikes the perfect balance between affordability, versatility, and ease of use. The Rebel T8i features a 24.1 MP sensor, excellent for capturing detailed photos, and its intuitive controls make it a great starting point for those new to DSLR photography. It also has a guided interface that helps beginners understand settings like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO.
The 18-55mm lens is an ideal companion because it’s versatile enough to handle a wide range of photography styles, from landscapes to portraits. Its image stabilization helps reduce blur, especially useful for handheld shots. I recommend this setup because it’s a solid investment without overwhelming features, allowing beginners to focus on mastering the basics while still delivering quality images. As skills grow, the camera’s compatibility with other lenses opens doors to more advanced techniques.
Runbo Li, Co-founder & CEO, Magic Hour
Canon EOS R50 With 50mm Lens
For a beginner, I recommend the Canon EOS R50 with a Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 lens due to its relatively simple and feature-rich construction. It is not overpriced for an entry-level camera, and its features are not overly complicated, making it perfect for practice.
A good entry device for a mirrorless camera for a user since it brings an easy and intuitive approach, with a very good resolution image sensor and the fastest AF system. A rather compact shape is also not hard on the hand.
The 50mm f/1.8 lens is very commonly known as the “nifty fifty.” Due to its focal length which is nearly identical to how the human eye sees things, it works fantastic on portraits, landscapes, and everyday shots. The aperture of f/1.8 will give beginners that taste of depth-of-field control, a beautiful blur in the background, and better low-light performance.
It combines the basics of composition, exposure, and focus control without being overwhelming and full of distractions. Once you’ve been around a bit, it will give you a great foundation for delving deeper into more advanced gear and techniques.
Renata Lutz, Founder and Photographer, The Portrait Mama
Mirrorless Camera With 50mm Lens
I highly recommend starting with a mirrorless camera and a 50 mm lens. My preference has always been Canon–I use them in my own photography business. But really, any of the big three brands–Canon, Sony, and Nikon–have great options.
Mirrorless cameras include the newest technology with the most up to date autofocus systems. You don’t need a top of the line mirrorless camera to get all of these benefits. For Canon, the R100 is a good place for a beginner.
For a lens I recommend the 50 mm since it’s universal. It’s one of the lenses I learned on! There’s no zoom, so you’re naturally going to force yourself to move closer or further away from your subjects to create the look you want. This makes you a stronger photographer in the long run. Plus, 50 mm lenses tend to be more affordable, which is a big bonus!
Really though, you can’t go wrong. You can learn on anything. So if you see something in your budget, just get out there and start.
Christine Murphy, Wedding Photographer, Christine Hazel Photography
Use Any Camera And Lens Combination
Any camera and lens combination a beginner already has is a great starting point. Photography is less about having the ‘perfect’ gear and more about honing the fundamentals: mastering exposure, practicing intentional composition, and understanding how to work with light. While upgrading gear can be exciting down the line, building a strong foundation in these areas will ultimately create a photographer’s unique style and vision. Start with what you have, and let your skills lead you forward!”
Brian Holstein, Photographer & Business Owner, Scenic Vows
Prioritise High-Quality Lenses For Beginners
When choosing a camera and lens combination as a beginner photographer, a few factors matter: your budget, your preferred subjects, and your long-term goals in photography. If you’re just starting out, prioritize investing in high-quality lenses over expensive camera bodies. Camera bodies improve quickly, with new features and models released often, but a good lens can serve you well for years and make a noticeable difference in your photos. Bonus Tip: Don’t feel restricted to the same brand lenses as your camera body. Many third-party options, like Tamron and Sigma, are compatible with Canon, Nikon, and Sony cameras, providing excellent quality at lower prices.
For those interested in wildlife photography, a telephoto lens is essential for capturing animals from a distance. A lens with at least a 300mm focal length is a good starting point, but if your budget allows, consider a 400mm or a 600mm lens for more flexibility. The additional reach makes it easier to get close-up shots of animals.
For photographing pets up close, a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens is a versatile choice. The f/2.8 aperture allows you to achieve beautiful background blur (bokeh), which makes your subject stand out sharply against a soft background. This lens is also great in low-light conditions, like in the woodlands, making it easier to get good photos in those conditions.
If portrait photography is your main interest, the 50mm f/1.8 prime lens, often called the “nifty fifty,” is an affordable, high-quality choice. The 50mm focal length is ideal for portraits because it offers a natural perspective with minimal distortion, and the wide f/1.8 aperture provides excellent low-light performance and attractive background separation. Most manufacturers offer a 50mm f/1.8 lens, and even the most budget-friendly versions often deliver sharp and impressive results. To expand on this, you could look at an 24-70 lens, or even a 24-105, to get you a bit more versatility.
Ann Visser, Pet Photographer, AnnVisser Fotografie