Just because a camera is cheap, doesn’t mean it’s bad. New releases cause prices to fall.
There are marketing departments working to make you believe old cameras are obsolete. My view is that they are just as good as the day they were released.
Cameras are separated by type. They are roughly ordered by cost.
Below are my top recommendations for each price point and type of photography or videography. They’ll offer good value and usability.
Cameras for fun everyday photography, travel, street, and portraits are the cheapest. They get more expensive when faster autofocus is needed for sports/action/wildlife or for recording 4k video.
Toys Cameras
I think the most popular recent example would be the Kodak Charmera. I don’t like them because there are different designs sold in blind boxes.
There are also cameras designed for kids. One I have is the Vtech KidiZoom Ceator Cam.
The common factor is limited controls and a low resolution camera sensor. The most capable cameras can record 1080p30 video. Others might be limited to 720p, 480i, lower, or no ability to capture video.
Point and Shoots
- Does it have a built-in flash?
- Does it use SD cards. (Avoid CompactFlash or xD Picture Cards)
- Can you buy third party replacement batteries? (Bonus points if it uses AA batteries)
- A wider lens is more useful than an additional 50mm of telephoto reach.
Everyone loves these cameras for the on camera flash and fill flash effects. It’s seen in the majority of casual photos from the 1980s through to 2014 when everyone switched to using their phone.
A xenon flash is MUCH brighter than an LED. It freezes action and overpowers indoor lights.
A single use film camera or Kodak Ektar H35 will produce the same look. Though digital is less expensive than shooting 35mm film.
Film or digital, using the flash will quickly drain batteries. Make sure you have spares so the fun doesn’t stop.
Avoid Condition Problems
Parts of the cameras were not designed to last 20 years. LCD screens can delaminate. Sensors can fail. Capacitors can and will die.
They are not easily repairable. For instance, if a lens looks like it is stuck in an extended position, the camera is beyond saving.
Video Content Creation & Vlogging
I consider these to be video first cameras targeted at low to mid range price points. Emphasis is put on small size, portability, and ease of use.
- DJI Osmo Pocket 3, 4, 4P
- DJI Action 4, 5, 6
- Insta360 Luna Ultra
- Insta360 X4, X5, X6
I have been using a Sony ZV-1 for my videos. I bought it so I could ignore the video specs on cameras for photography.
For under $500, it’s been good for use on a tripod.
Crop Sensor DSLRs
These were the best selling type of camera. Sales fell off after peak sales in 2012-14. Everyone decided they’d rather use their phone.
They are perfect for determining if you actually like photography. That’s because you have to be willing to have a camera with you.
You should be able to find these with a 18-55mm lens for around $200:
- Canon T4i, T5i
- Nikon D3200, D3300
Micro Four Thirds
Micro Four Thirds has the best selection of lenses under $200.
It was the first mirrorless system so there are many cheap bodies to choose from. That makes it a great value for people on a budget.
Many Panasonic models have excellent video, especially compared to their used prices. Specifically the GH series, starting with the GH4.
Full Frame Mirrorless
Skip the first generation of cameras made by every manufacturer. No one nailed it on their first attempt.
Camcorders
Camcorders have almost completely died off. That’s sad because they are better for video than using a camera with ergonomics for photography.
Vintage cameras are desirable for their unique looks. I’d recommend avoiding anything that uses a tape as that’s asking for problems for a camera that will be 20, 30, or 40 years old.
For a good user experience to get standard definition, 480p video with a CCD, look at the Canon FS100 series. They are plentiful so prices haven’t gotten crazy.
Bridge Cameras (Birding)
Bridge cameras feature lenses with larger telephoto zoom ranges than point and shoots. They’ve fallen out of favor for everything except birding.
Vintage models can be an inexpensive way to learn photography or videography. They can be found for less than $100.
For birding, most people do not enjoy or are not able to carry around several pounds worth of camera gear. The Nikon P950, P1000, and P1100 have 2000mm or 3000mm of equivalent reach.
They will allow you to get photos of birds without needing to wear camo or hide in a blind. You’ll be able to stand far enough away to where the birds won’t get spooked.