Best Nikon Cameras for Beginners in 2026: Expert Buying Guide

Last updated on January 1st, 2026 at 10:24 pm

Why Nikon Remains the Smart Choice for Beginning Photographers in 2026

After teaching dozens of beginner photographers over the past decade, I can confidently say that starting with Nikon is one of the smartest decisions you can make. The company has been building cameras for over a century, and their dedication to making photography accessible shows in every entry-level camera they produce.

What makes Nikon special for beginners? Three things: intuitive controls that make sense from day one, an enormous selection of affordable lenses, and bodies that grow with you as your skills develop. I have watched countless students start with a basic Nikon and still be using the same system five years later – just with better glass and more advanced bodies.

In 2026, Nikon offers both DSLR and mirrorless options for beginners. The Z-mount mirrorless system has matured beautifully, offering compact bodies with cutting-edge autofocus and video capabilities. Meanwhile, the F-mount DSLR system remains an incredible value, especially if you are buying used or want access to decades of affordable lenses.

This guide covers the best Nikon cameras for beginners available right now, from ultra-affordable entry points to more capable models that will serve you for years. Every camera here has been tested extensively, and I will share real-world insights on which one makes sense for your budget and goals.

Understanding Your Options: Mirrorless vs DSLR in 2026

Mirrorless (Z-Mount): The Modern Path

Nikon’s Z-mount mirrorless cameras represent the future of photography. They are lighter, offer better autofocus (especially for video), have electronic viewfinders that show you exactly what your image will look like, and deliver superior video capabilities. The Z30 and Z50 are purpose-built for beginners and content creators.

The downside? Z-mount lenses tend to be more expensive, and the used market is still developing. You will pay a premium for the latest technology.

DSLR (F-Mount): The Value Path

F-mount DSLRs like the D3500 (if you can still find one new) or D5600 offer incredible value. The optical viewfinder provides a pure, lag-free view. Battery life is exceptional – easily 1,000+ shots per charge. And the used lens market is massive, with quality glass available at bargain prices.

The tradeoff? DSLRs are bulkier, video autofocus is not as good, and Nikon is clearly focusing R&D on mirrorless going forward.

My recommendation? If you are primarily shooting photos and want maximum value, consider a DSLR. If you are creating content for social media, want the latest features, or value portability, go mirrorless.

The 7 Best Nikon Cameras for Beginners in 2026

1. Nikon Z30 – Best for Content Creators and Vloggers

Price: $710 body only, $850 with kit lens

The Z30 is Nikon’s answer to the Sony ZV-E10, and they nailed it. This mirrorless camera is purpose-built for vloggers and content creators, with a fully articulating touchscreen, no recording limits, clean HDMI output, and a microphone input that actually delivers decent preamps.

I have been using the Z30 for behind-the-scenes content on my photography channel, and it punches way above its weight. The 20.9MP sensor is the same one from the higher-end Z50, so image quality is excellent. Autofocus is reliable with eye detection that works for both photos and video. And the body is so light (405g) that handheld vlogging does not destroy your wrist after 10 minutes.

What I love: The Z30 has zero recording limits for 4K video, which is crucial for long takes or interviews. The flip-out screen is perfect for self-recording. It is the only beginner Nikon with a dedicated “Creators” mode that simplifies settings for social media content.

What to know: There is no viewfinder – you are shooting on the back screen only. If you are a dedicated stills photographer who rarely shoots video, this might feel limiting. Also, the Z-mount lens selection is still growing, though the kit 16-50mm covers most vlogging needs.

Best for: YouTubers, TikTok creators, vloggers, hybrid shooters who need excellent video. If your content appears on a screen more than in print, the Z30 is your camera.

Lens recommendations: Start with the 16-50mm kit lens ($140). For portraits and shallow depth of field, add the 40mm f/2 ($300) or 50mm f/1.8 ($600). Both are compact and deliver beautiful background blur.

2. Nikon Z50 – Best Overall Mirrorless for Beginners

Price: $860 body only, $1,050 with kit lens

If I could recommend just one camera to most beginners in 2026, it would be the Z50. This is Nikon’s perfect balance of capability, size, and price in a mirrorless package.

The Z50 shares the same excellent 20.9MP sensor as the Z30 but adds a high-resolution electronic viewfinder, dual control dials, and a more robust build. The viewfinder alone makes a huge difference – shooting in bright sunlight or composing carefully is dramatically easier when you can bring the camera to your eye.

After two years with the Z50, I appreciate how its controls mirror higher-end Nikons. If you eventually upgrade to a Z6 III or Z8, muscle memory transfers seamlessly. The dual card slot (microSD) is unusual for this price point and provides backup security that pros demand.

What I love: The 11fps burst rate is legitimately fast for this class. Eye-detect autofocus works brilliantly for portraits. The tilting touchscreen is responsive. And the grip, while compact, is comfortable even with larger lenses.

What to know: Battery life is adequate (300 shots) but not amazing compared to DSLRs. The microSD cards are slower than full-size SD, so continuous shooting buffers can fill quickly. And like all Z-mount cameras, lens selection is more limited than F-mount (though growing quickly).

Best for: Beginners who want a modern mirrorless experience with room to grow. Photography enthusiasts who value portability without sacrificing capability. Anyone transitioning from a smartphone who wants pro controls.

Lens recommendations: The 16-50mm kit lens is fine but not inspiring. I would budget for the 50mm f/1.8 Z ($600) immediately – it is sharp, fast, and transforms your portraits. The 24-200mm f/4-6.3 ($900) is the ultimate travel lens if you want one-lens-does-all versatility.

3. Nikon D3500 – Best Value DSLR (If You Can Find It)

Price: $400-500 used (discontinued new)

The D3500 was discontinued in 2022, but it remains one of the best camera values in photography – if you can find one used or new-old-stock. I still shoot with mine regularly, and the image quality holds up beautifully against cameras costing twice as much.

This DSLR delivers 24.2MP of resolution, excellent low-light performance (ISO 25,600 max), and battery life that seems almost magical by 2026 standards: 1,550 shots per charge. I have gone on weekend trips without bringing a charger.

The D3500 is Nikon’s simplest DSLR, which is both good and bad. There is no touchscreen, only one control dial, and limited customization. But for learning photography fundamentals – aperture, shutter speed, ISO – the simplicity helps. You are not drowning in menus.

What I love: The combination of image quality, battery life, and used pricing is unbeatable. The D3500 with the 18-55mm kit lens can be found for $450 used, and you will get professional-quality images. The Guide Mode is perfect for absolute beginners, walking you through portrait, landscape, and action settings.

What to know: No 4K video (1080p only). No touchscreen. Autofocus is basic with 11 points. It is showing its age in features, even if image quality remains strong. And because it is discontinued, finding new copies is increasingly difficult.

Best for: Budget-conscious beginners who primarily shoot photos. Anyone building an F-mount lens collection. Photographers who value simplicity and incredible battery life over modern features.

Lens recommendations: Start with the kit 18-55mm ($100 used). Add the brilliant 35mm f/1.8G DX ($200 new, $130 used) for low-light and portraits. If you need reach, the 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3 ($400 new, $250 used) is sharp and affordable.

4. Nikon D5600 – Best DSLR for Enthusiasts

Price: $600-700 used (discontinued new)

The D5600 is the more capable sibling of the D3500, adding features that matter: a fully articulating touchscreen, 39-point autofocus, built-in WiFi, and better continuous shooting (5fps vs 5fps). It is a camera I recommend without hesitation to beginners ready to invest in something they will not outgrow quickly.

I have tested dozens of lenses on the D5600, and the camera never feels like the limiting factor. The 24.2MP sensor has excellent dynamic range, handling high-contrast scenes with ease. The flip-out touchscreen makes low angles and selfies actually usable, something you miss immediately when going back to cameras without it.

The 39-point autofocus system is a massive upgrade over the D3500. Tracking moving subjects – kids, pets, sports – becomes dramatically more reliable. And the camera body itself feels more substantial, with better weather sealing and a deeper grip.

What I love: The articulating touchscreen is a game-changer for versatility. Time-lapse mode is built in (unlike the D3500). The camera feels professional in hand without the bulk. And compatibility with every F-mount AF lens ever made opens up decades of used glass.

What to know: Also discontinued, so availability is used-market only. Video is still 1080p (no 4K). Battery life, while good at 970 shots, is not quite as magical as the D3500. And if you are primarily a video shooter, the Z30 or Z50 will serve you better.

Best for: Serious hobbyists who want a capable DSLR that grows with them. Anyone who values the optical viewfinder experience. Photographers building a long-term F-mount lens collection.

Lens recommendations: Check out our complete D5600 lens guide for detailed recommendations. Quick picks: Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 ($400 used) for versatility, Nikon 35mm f/1.8G ($200 new) for everyday shooting, Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8 ($350 used) for landscapes.

5. Nikon Z fc – Best for Style and Retro Appeal

Price: $1,100 body only, $1,200 with kit lens

The Z fc is what happens when Nikon’s legendary FM2 film camera design meets modern mirrorless technology. This camera is gorgeous – all-metal construction with physical dials for shutter speed, ISO, and exposure compensation. It looks like it belongs in a vintage camera shop, but inside beats the same 20.9MP sensor and autofocus system as the Z50.

I was skeptical when Nikon announced the Z fc. Would form over function compromise usability? After six months with one, I am a convert. The retro controls actually enhance the shooting experience. Changing settings with physical dials – without taking your eye from the viewfinder – becomes second nature quickly.

The Z fc delivers identical image quality and performance to the Z50, so you are not sacrificing capability for style. But you are paying a $250 premium for the retro body and upgraded build materials.

What I love: The design turns heads and makes photography fun in a way modern black boxes do not. Physical controls are deeply satisfying to use. Build quality feels premium. And the fully articulating touchscreen makes it versatile for vlogging despite the classic looks.

What to know: You are paying for aesthetics – the Z50 offers identical performance for less money. The silver model shows fingerprints and wear more than black cameras. And the vintage styling might not age well aesthetically if retro trends pass.

Best for: Photographers who appreciate design and want a camera that is a pleasure to hold and use. Street photographers who benefit from the non-threatening vintage appearance. Anyone who wants Z50 performance in a body that feels special.

Lens recommendations: The Z fc deserves equally stylish glass. The 28mm f/2.8 SE ($300) is a pancake lens that complements the retro aesthetic perfectly. The 40mm f/2 ($300) is compact and sharp. For versatility, the 16-50mm kit lens works but feels visually mismatched.

6. Nikon D7500 – Best for Advanced Beginners

Price: $900-1,100 used (discontinued new)

The D7500 sits at the top of Nikon’s enthusiast DSLR lineup, offering features and build quality that approach professional cameras. This is not quite a beginner camera – it is what serious beginners graduate to after a year or two with an entry-level body.

I shot professionally with a D7500 for three years, and it never let me down. The 20.9MP sensor (yes, the same one in the Z50) delivers beautiful files with excellent high-ISO performance. The 51-point autofocus system, borrowed from the pro D500, tracks subjects with confidence. And the 8fps burst rate handles fast action comfortably.

Build quality is a significant step up from entry-level bodies. Weather sealing protects against rain and dust. The pentaprism viewfinder is brighter and larger. Dual card slots (SD) provide redundancy that pros require. And the deep grip handles larger lenses comfortably all day.

What I love: This camera feels professional in every way. The tilting touchscreen is responsive. 4K video (though with a significant crop) is usable for projects. Buffer depth is generous for extended bursts. And the used market pricing makes it an incredible value.

What to know: It is overkill for absolute beginners – the menu system is complex, and many features will go unused initially. The 4K crop factor (1.5x) limits video usefulness. And at 720g, it is noticeably heavier than mirrorless alternatives.

Best for: Beginners who know they are committed long-term and want one camera to grow into. Photographers upgrading from a D3500 or D5600. Anyone who shoots events, sports, or wildlife where autofocus and build quality matter.

Lens recommendations: Pair this capable body with quality glass. The Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 ($400 used) is my go-to walk-around lens. For portraits, the Nikon 85mm f/1.8G ($500 new) is stunning. Our budget Nikon lenses guide has more affordable options.

7. Nikon D3500 + D5600 Used Bundle – Best Overall Value

Price: $350-600 depending on condition and lens

Here is my contrarian recommendation for 2026: buy a used D3500 or D5600 body with a kit lens, then invest your real budget in great glass. You will get better results with a $400 D3500 and a $300 prime lens than with a $700 body and mediocre kit glass.

The used market for F-mount DSLRs is extraordinary right now. Everyone is upgrading to mirrorless, flooding the market with excellent condition bodies at bargain prices. I routinely see D3500 bodies with less than 5,000 shutter actuations (barely broken in) for under $400.

Why this approach works: Camera bodies become outdated. Lenses do not. A sharp prime lens from 1985 still delivers beautiful images in 2026. By starting with a capable used body and investing in quality glass, you are building a lens collection that will serve you for decades, even as you upgrade bodies.

Where to buy used: KEH Camera, MPB, Adorama Used, B&H Used, and reputable local camera shops. Avoid Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace unless you can inspect the camera thoroughly in person. Look for bodies rated “excellent” or better with shutter counts under 10,000 for DSLRs.

What to check: Test all autofocus points, check the sensor for dust or damage, verify the shutter sounds normal, and confirm the battery holds a charge. Request sample images. If buying online, use sellers with return policies.

Best for: Value-focused beginners who want maximum bang for their buck. Anyone willing to learn the used market. Photographers who understand that glass matters more than megapixels.

Essential Buying Guide: What to Consider Before Purchasing

Budget: What You Really Need to Spend

Let me be honest: the camera body is only the beginning. You will also need memory cards ($30-60), extra batteries ($40-60), a camera bag ($50-150), and probably additional lenses ($200-1,000+). The true budget for starting photography is 1.5x to 2x the body cost.

Minimum viable budget: $500 total – Used D3500 ($400) + 35mm f/1.8 lens ($100 used)

Recommended budget: $1,000-1,500 – Z50 with kit lens ($1,050) + 50mm f/1.8 ($600) + accessories ($200-300)

Future-proof budget: $2,000+ – D7500 used ($1,000) + Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 ($400) + quality prime lens ($500) + accessories ($300)

Intended Use: Match the Camera to Your Photography

Portraits and family photos: Any of these cameras work, but prioritize sensor resolution and lens selection. The D5600 or Z50 offer the best combination. Invest in a fast 50mm or 85mm prime lens.

Landscapes and travel: Resolution and dynamic range matter. The D7500 or Z50 excel here. Budget for a wide-angle lens (10-24mm range) and a sturdy tripod.

Sports and action: Autofocus speed and burst rate are critical. The D7500 is the clear winner with 51 AF points and 8fps. The Z50 is a solid mirrorless alternative at 11fps.

Video and content creation: Go mirrorless. The Z30 is purpose-built for creators. The Z50 offers more versatility. Both deliver excellent 4K video with reliable autofocus.

Learning photography fundamentals: Any camera here works. The D3500 or D5600 offer the best value for pure learning without feature overwhelm.

Lens Ecosystem: The Decision That Matters Most

This is the most important consideration, and most beginners get it wrong. You are not just buying a camera – you are investing in a lens system that will last decades.

F-Mount (DSLR) advantages:
– Massive used market with affordable lenses
– Compatibility with lenses dating back to 1959 (with caveats)
– Third-party support from Sigma, Tamron, Tokina
– Better value for building a complete system
– Professional F-mount lenses work beautifully with FTZ adapter on Z cameras

Z-Mount (Mirrorless) advantages:
– Modern optical designs with superior sharpness
– Better video-optimized autofocus
– Smaller, lighter lenses (usually)
– Future-proofed as Nikon’s development focus
– Growing selection with key focal lengths covered

My recommendation? If budget is paramount and you are primarily shooting photos, F-mount offers incredible value. If you are starting fresh and want the latest technology, Z-mount is the future. You can always adapt F-mount lenses to Z cameras later.

Features That Actually Matter for Beginners

Must-have features:
– At least 20MP resolution (all these cameras qualify)
– Reliable autofocus (minimum 11 points for DSLR, hybrid AF for mirrorless)
– 1080p video minimum (4K is nice but not essential)
– Decent battery life (300+ shots for mirrorless, 700+ for DSLR)
– Comfortable grip and intuitive controls

Nice-to-have features:
– Articulating touchscreen (game-changer for versatility)
– WiFi/Bluetooth for easy transfer (standard on all modern cameras)
– 4K video (essential if you are serious about video)
– Fast burst rate (6fps+)
– Weather sealing (important if shooting outdoors regularly)

Features you do not need yet:
– Dual card slots (nice for pros, unnecessary for learning)
– GPS (your phone does this better)
– Advanced picture profiles (learn fundamentals first)
– High-speed sync flash (advanced technique)

New vs Used: The Value Equation

Used cameras are one of photography’s best-kept secrets. A well-maintained DSLR will easily last 100,000+ shutter actuations. Most casual shooters never reach 20,000. Buying used saves 30-50% with minimal risk if you buy from reputable sellers.

What I buy used without hesitation: Camera bodies, F-mount lenses (especially older primes), camera bags, tripods, flashes

What I buy new: Memory cards (too many fakes), batteries (reliability matters), Z-mount lenses (not enough used selection yet)

Best used marketplaces:
– KEH Camera – Graded condition, 180-day warranty, excellent reputation
– MPB – Similar to KEH, strong international presence
– B&H and Adorama Used – Reliable, returnable, well-graded
– Local camera shops – Can inspect in person, build relationships
– Fred Miranda Forums – For experienced buyers only, no returns

Complete Setup Recommendations by Budget

$500 Budget: Maximum Value Starter Kit

Camera: Used Nikon D3500 with 18-55mm kit lens – $450
Extra: SanDisk 32GB SD card – $15
Extra: Amazon Basics camera bag – $25
Extra: Cleaning kit – $10

Total: $500

This setup will deliver professional-quality images while you learn fundamentals. The D3500 is simple enough to not overwhelm you but capable enough to grow with your skills for at least two years.

First upgrade (3-6 months): Nikon 35mm f/1.8G DX ($200 new, $130 used) – This lens will transform your photography and teach you about shallow depth of field.

$1,000 Budget: Balanced Capability Kit

Camera: Nikon Z50 with 16-50mm kit lens – $1,050
Lens: Nikon Z 40mm f/2 – $300 (total: $1,350)

Wait, that is over $1,000! Here is the trick: skip the kit lens initially. Buy the Z50 body only ($860) + the 40mm f/2 prime ($300). Total: $1,160.

The 40mm f/2 is sharper than the kit zoom, forces you to learn by zooming with your feet, and delivers beautiful background blur. You will learn faster with a prime lens.

Accessories: 64GB SD card ($25), spare battery ($40), Peak Design Everyday Sling ($100) – can add these as budget allows.

First upgrade: Z 16-50mm kit lens ($140 used) for versatility, or save for the excellent Z 24-200mm ($900) as an all-in-one travel solution.

$2,000 Budget: Future-Proof Professional Path

Camera: Used Nikon D7500 body – $1,000
Lens: Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 OS HSM – $400 new, $250 used
Lens: Nikon 50mm f/1.8G – $220
Accessories: Two 64GB SD cards ($50), extra battery ($50), Lowepro ProTactic bag ($150), basic tripod ($80)

Total: ~$2,000

This setup will serve you for 5+ years without feeling limited. The D7500 is a camera you can shoot professionally with. The Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 is sharp enough for paid work. And you have all the accessories you actually need.

Build your system: Add lenses based on what you shoot – 85mm f/1.8G ($500) for portraits, Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8 ($350 used) for landscapes, 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3 ($400) for wildlife.

Common Beginner Questions Answered

Do I really need a “real camera” or is my smartphone good enough?

Your smartphone is amazing for casual shooting and social media. But it has physical limitations: tiny sensor, fixed lens, limited low-light capability, and minimal control over depth of field. A dedicated camera opens creative possibilities your phone cannot match.

If you are asking this question, try renting a camera for a week first. If you are not excited by the results and control it offers, stick with your phone. Photography should be fun, not an obligation.

Should I buy the latest model or save money with an older camera?

For beginners, older cameras offer incredible value. A 2019 camera is not “outdated” – it will produce images that look identical to 2026 models in most situations. Megapixels plateaued years ago. Unless you need specific features (like 4K 60fps video or advanced autofocus), save the money and invest in better lenses.

How many megapixels do I actually need?

20MP is plenty for 95% of photography, including large prints up to 16×20 inches. The 24MP cameras offer slightly more cropping flexibility. Anything beyond that is overkill unless you are shooting commercial work or cropping heavily.

More megapixels also mean larger file sizes, faster-filling memory cards, and more demanding computer requirements. Do not chase megapixels – chase good light and composition.

What lens should I buy first?

Start with the kit lens your camera comes with. Learn its limitations through actual shooting, not speculation. After 500-1,000 shots, you will know what you need next.

That said, the single most transformative first lens purchase is a 35mm or 50mm f/1.8 prime. The wide aperture teaches you about depth of field and enables low-light shooting. Prices range from $130-300 used for F-mount versions. Your portraits will immediately look more professional.

Do I need the camera warranty?

For used cameras, you cannot get a manufacturer warranty anyway. Buy from reputable dealers like KEH or MPB who offer their own guarantees (90-180 days typically).

For new cameras, the included 1-year manufacturer warranty is sufficient. Extended warranties are rarely worth the cost – cameras are reliable, and most failures happen immediately (covered by the included warranty) or after several years of heavy use.

Is Nikon better than Canon for beginners?

This is the eternal debate, and the honest answer is: they are both excellent, and the differences matter less than people think. I recommend Nikon because their entry-level cameras traditionally offer slightly better ergonomics and features-per-dollar. The F-mount lens ecosystem is also incredible for used glass.

But if you have friends or family shooting Canon, consider their system instead. Borrowing lenses and getting in-person help is more valuable than marginal spec differences.

Can I use old film camera lenses on digital Nikons?

Yes, with caveats. F-mount has been Nikon’s standard since 1959, so compatibility is excellent. However, older manual focus lenses will not autofocus on your digital camera (except the D7500, which has a built-in focus motor). And some features like metering may not work with very old lenses.

For beginners, I recommend sticking with modern AF-S or AF-P lenses initially. Once you are comfortable, exploring vintage glass is fun and affordable.

My Final Recommendation: What I Would Buy in 2026

If I were starting photography today with no existing gear, here is exactly what I would buy:

For pure value: Used Nikon D5600 ($600) + used Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 ($250) = $850. This combination will serve you brilliantly for years, and the money saved goes toward future lenses or trips to shoot.

For modern features: Nikon Z50 body ($860) + Z 40mm f/2 ($300) = $1,160. You are investing in Nikon’s future, getting cutting-edge autofocus and video, and starting a mirrorless lens collection that will last decades.

For content creation: Nikon Z30 with kit lens ($850) + rode VideoMicro ($60) + extra battery ($40) = $950. Purpose-built for video with the features that actually matter to creators.

Remember: the best camera is the one you will actually use. A slightly “worse” camera that excites you and comes with you everywhere will produce better results than a technically superior model that stays home. Choose based on what makes you want to shoot, not just specs.

Getting Started: Your First 30 Days

Week 1: Learn your camera
– Read the manual (yes, really)
– Shoot in Auto mode to understand what the camera chooses
– Take 50+ photos of anything
– Explore different photography styles

Week 2: Take control
– Switch to Aperture Priority (A mode)
– Learn how aperture affects depth of field
– Shoot the same subject at f/1.8, f/5.6, and f/11
– Take 100+ photos experimenting with settings

Week 3: Master the basics
– Try Shutter Priority (S mode) for motion
– Understand ISO and when to increase it
– Practice in different lighting conditions
– Take 200+ photos in various situations

Week 4: Create intentionally
– Switch to Manual mode (M)
– Shoot a specific project (portraits, landscape series, etc.)
– Start learning basic photo editing
– Review your best 20 photos and understand why they work

After 30 days and 400+ shots, you will understand your camera intuitively. You will also know what lens or accessory you need next based on actual shooting experience, not guesswork.

Conclusion: Your Photography Journey Starts Here

Nikon has been making cameras for over a century because they understand what photographers need. Whether you choose a modern Z-mount mirrorless camera or a value-packed F-mount DSLR, you are joining a system with incredible depth and longevity.

The cameras in this guide represent the best entry points into Nikon photography in 2026. The Z30 and Z50 offer modern mirrorless performance with excellent video. The D3500, D5600, and D7500 deliver exceptional value in the used market with access to decades of affordable lenses.

Your first camera does not have to be perfect. It just has to get you shooting. Every photographer I know wishes they had started sooner, not waited for the “right” camera. The images you will capture over the next year matter far more than the specific camera you use to capture them.

Start with any camera in this guide, shoot as often as possible, learn fundamentals consistently, and watch your photography transform. The camera does not make the photographer – but the right camera can inspire you to become one.

Now go shoot something beautiful.