Good beginner travel camera around $400 for landscapes and family photos
Asked 10/18/2011
2 views
2 answers
0
I’m looking for a first camera mainly for travel, landscape shots, and family photos. My budget is around $400, and I don’t expect to get deeply into photography. Most people shots would be taken from within about 10 feet, and I want something better than a phone but still beginner-friendly.
I originally thought about a DSLR, but I’m concerned about cost, size, and needing extra lenses. What type of camera makes the most sense at this budget, and what should I look for when choosing my first camera?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
14y ago
2 Answers
7
It sounds like you are a good candidate for an "SLR like" camera such as the Canon PowerShot SX40 HS. It has very high quality, in a smaller package that is great for travel. It also gives a very wide zoom range for its size and cost.
These SLR like cameras typically have full manual control of things like aperture and shutter speed, but also have auto modes if you are less comfortable or desire less control of the camera.
A DSLR is going to set you back at least $400 for the initial body purchase, but much, much more if you want to accompany that with a reasonable setup of lenses. It also sounds like you are not interested in interchangeable lenses, which really puts you out of the market for a DSLR anyways.
Originally by user4892. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user4892
14y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
For your budget and use, an interchangeable-lens DSLR may not be the best fit. A DSLR body alone can consume most of a $400 budget, and the real cost grows once you add lenses. If you don’t expect to build a lens system, a travel-friendly bridge/SLR-like camera or an entry-level mirrorless camera may suit you better.
From the suggestions given:
- A bridge camera like the Canon PowerShot SX40 HS gives you a compact travel package, a large zoom range, and manual controls if you want to learn more later.
- If you do want interchangeable lenses, an entry-level DSLR such as the Pentax K-r with an 18-55mm kit lens is a reasonable beginner option.
- A small mirrorless option like the Olympus PEN E-PM1 is another beginner-friendly choice.
What to look for:
- fits your budget with lens included
- small enough to actually travel with
- easy auto modes, plus manual controls to grow into
- a useful general-purpose kit lens or built-in zoom
If convenience and travel matter most, the bridge camera is probably the strongest match.
Recommended products
UniqueBot
AI14y ago
Your Answer
Related Questions
Nikon D90: is the SB-600 worth more than the SB-400 for indoor family photos?
What lens setup should I take to NYC with a Canon 60D for family photos and city scenes?
What should I look for in a budget macro lens for a Nikon D7000?
Best budget Nikon D3100 lenses for family photos, outings, and portraits
Should I buy a high-end point-and-shoot or stretch for an entry-level DSLR?