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The Best Cheap DSLR Cameras for Beginners
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Contrary to popular belief, a higher price point will not guarantee better photos. Translation: A cheap DSLR camera can produce captivating images– and there are tons of great cheap DSLR options available today. Whether you’re looking to start a new hobby or simply curious about where to begin with DSLR cameras and lenses, we’ve rounded up some of the best digital camera deals plus tips for finding the best camera and lens for you.
How to Get Started in Photography
Photography can be intimidating– from aperture range to ISO speeds, an amateur photog has a lot of information to take in before making an informed decision. Personally, I believe in a good foundation over a fancy brand name when starting out. As an amateur (and I do mean amateur) photographer, I can attest to the want– no, need — to buy the shiniest new toy when shopping for cameras and camera accessories. While that beautiful Leica camera will no doubt produce beautiful images, the true artistry comes from the camera operator, not the camera itself.
I know, I know. This all sounds very cliché but ask any professional and they’ll tell you: Fancy equipment means nothing if you don’t understand what you’re doing. Growing up I always enjoyed any time I could get my hands on a camera, whether it was a disposable camera, my ’90s Barbie Polaroid camera or a good ol’ 35mm film camera. It was always challenging and exciting to see the final product. Now, as an adult, my lifelong interest was upgraded with the purchase of a DSLR camera, a Canon Rebel T6. Regardless of being familiar with cameras, I knew that a big purchase like this required a bit of research– so I’ve done some if it for you.
There is plenty more to learn regarding photography (check out our beginners’ tips at the end!) but first, you’ll need a camera. Keep reading to find the best cheap DSLR cameras and DSLR bundle kits for beginners.
Cheap DSLR Cameras
Canon Rebel T7 DSLR Video Camera with 18-55mm Lens – $449.99
I couldn’t kick off a list of great starter cameras without mentioning my first DSLR, the Canon Rebel. Those who are just now dipping their toes into the photography world will quickly realize that brand loyalty is very much a thing. Usually photographers fall into two categories: Canon or Nikon. Personally, I am team Canon– however, Nikon makes fantastic cameras and lenses and are worth exploring. Ultimately I chose a Canon Rebel (T6) due to its user friendly features. While this is a great beginner camera, it is capable of being pushed to the next level and doesn’t skimp on features, including video capabilities. The camera comes with an 18-55mm lens for versatility in shots ranging from portrait to landscape.
Nikon D3500 DSLR Video Camera with 18-55mm lens – $599.99
With almost 300 4.8 star reviews, it’s not hard to see why photographers love the Nikon D3500. Similar to the Canon Rebel series, this is Nikon’s user-friendly, lightweight DSLR that comes with a few bells and whistles of its own. The Nikon D3500 features 1080p video resolution and a maximum aperture of f/5.6 to create stunning images and videos. The camera includes a 18-55mm lens for range of style.
Nikon D5600 DSLR Camera 18-55 Lens Bundle – $789
The Nikon D5600 will impress straight out of the box, especially this bundle. The Nikon D5600 is a high quality DSLR camera equipped with 24.2 megapixels, full HD 1080p video and a battery life of over 970 shots per charge. It’s safe to say that the D5600 is a great pick for those looking for sharp images and convenience. The Nikon D5600 features WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities to download images faster than ever.
Canon Rebel T7 Video DSLR Two Lens Kit – $549.99
One of the best DSLR starter kits is the Canon Rebel T7 two lens collection. The camera is the same Rebel T7 users have come to know and love plus includes two lenses. In addition to the Rebel T7’s standard 18-55mm lens, the kit also comes with a 75-300mm lens for even more versatility in shots. The Rebel T7 features built-in WiFi so you can quickly connect to the Canon app and download your photos in real time.
Because we love a good deal around here I couldn’t mention one bundle without mentioning another great deal. If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop, this is it. While some may find the additional accessories unnecessary, others enjoy more bang for their buck. The Canon Rebel T7 bundle includes all of the above plus two memory cards, tripod, lens filters, extra battery and more.
Canon EOS Rebel SL3 with 18-55mm Lens – $699.99
Another great addition to the Rebel lineup is the Canon Rebel SL3. The Canon Rebel SL3 is the smallest and most lightweight DSLR camera Canon offers. Its compact design means it can easily travel with you and capture all those little moments you wish you had a camera for. Don’t let its size fool you- this Canon Rebel is no different or less in quality. Users love the dual Vari-angle touch screen that allows you to get every shot. Additionally the Rebel SL3 features 4K video, 24.1 Megapixel sensor, built-in WiFi and more.
Photography Basics for Beginners
A little bit of research can go a long way. Savvy shoppers tend to do their homework, hence the thrill of a good deal. When you understand not only what to look for but why it matters, that can make a world of a difference when finally selecting a camera. Here are a few photography basics every beginner should know.
Practice Makes Perfect
Though redundant, it’s true. My first piece of advice for anyone who has an interest in picking up a camera is to practice. Art is fluid, finding your style takes time, and it’s all about trying out ideas to comb through what works for you and what doesn’t. Most beginner photographers already own a sophisticated piece of equipment without even realizing it– a smartphone.
Start With Your Phone
Technology has advanced to the point that smartphones are capable of manipulating images in a similar manner as manually programming a camera. Start here, snap photos of everyday images that catch your eye and don’t delete. I say don’t delete with the caveat that you definitely should (and will need to) delete photos. However, I recommend doing this in a teaching manner. When practicing shooting, don’t overthink or try for perfection with every shot. Move around, and change focus points– these variations will allow you to dissect your work and narrow down which images you like best. Overtime you’ll notice less and less of a need to incessantly review every shot right after taking it. Akin to a “runner’s high,” you’ll be able to “feel” a good shot once its been taken. If you know, you know.
What is Aperture?
After you’ve practiced a bit, it’s time to become more hands-on when shooting. While it’s great to have programmed settings like portrait and landscape, understanding how to manually program your camera will drastically increase the control (both physical and creative) you have with a photo. One of the first and most important photography basics a beginner should understand is the use of aperture.
Aperture means a hole or opening. In photography, aperture is responsible for the amount of light that allowed to reach a camera’s sensor which effects a photograph’s exposure and depth of field. Aperture can be tricky to understand at first due to understanding f/stops– the measurement of aperture. An f/stop measures how large the opening allowing for light is. The lower an f/stop, the larger the opening allowing for maximum light. The higher an f/stop the smaller the opening allowing for less light. What f/stop is being used will depend on the light source when shooting. For example, if you are taking pictures at the beach under clear and sunny conditions, you will not have the need for a low aperture that allows for more light. Instead, you should choose a higher f/stop so that you do not overexpose a photo.
What is depth of field?
Depth of field refers to an images focus point. Having a high depth of field means that all subjects in a photo are sharp and equal in focus. A low depth of field will single out a particular subject making it sharp and visible, while its foreground or backgrounds will be blurred and in less focus. To create a shallow depth of field (aka focus on a specific subject within the photo) a large aperture is needed or a lower f/stop such as f/2. To create a high depth of field with all subjects in sharp focus (ex: landscape photography) a smaller aperture is needed or a high f/stop like f/11.
What is ISO?
Aperture and ISO are the photography’s world’s mac and cheese. You can’t have one without the other– and you can’t effectively use one without properly understanding its counterpart. You can have the correct aperture setting but wrong ISO resulting in grain or “noise” and low quality image.
The higher the value of ISO, the higher the sensitivity to the light that is reaching the sensor. ISO can also be used to capture a moving subject. When adjusting ISO remember:
- High ISO = more grain or noise present in a photo.
- Use a tripod when shooting with a high ISO to prevent camera shake and blurriness in photos.
- Low ISO is best in properly lit or bright settings.
- Use a higher ISO when capturing moving subjects.
- Increase ISO when flash is prohibited such as museums.
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