Untitled Document
SHARE

PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS
POST - PROCESSING
THE ART OF PHOTOGRAPHY
BUYING & SELLING
COMMUNITY











 

Share

Share your best photos with thousands of PAC readers!



Best Buy Cameras

Reviews of 5 models I recommend if you're looking to buy cameras online

best buy cameras canon ixus 300

The best buy cameras are, of course, those that most suit your particular requirements and are good value for money. But I want to tell you about 5 specific models that all offer incredible quality for their price.

These recommendations include 2 compact cameras, 1 beginner DSLR and 2 prosumer DSLR's. They all really stand out from the crowd in my view.

So whatever your experience level you might just find the best camera to buy on this list.

When it comes to actually making a purchase, there are several good places to buy cameras online, notably: Amazon and B&H Photo Video. Plus, don't forget the bargains that abound on eBay, where you can sometimes buy used cameras for incredible prices!

 

Best buy cameras for beginners not looking for a DSLR

 

So, you don't spend every waking hour thinking about photography, but you would like a decent little camera that will do justice to important moments.

You don't fancy a beefy DSLR - lenses and all - but would like a compact camera that can offer top notch results, without breaking the bank!

These 2 compact cameras from Canon are both simply outstanding and great buys.

 

1. Canon SD 4000 IS/IXUS 300 HS

 

This may be a compact / point and shoot style camera but it certainly delivers on the quality and specifications!

It has aperture and shutter speed 'priority' modes - enabling you to choose the respective setting for either - providing more manual control than most compacts (of course full 'auto' mode remains)

You can also be sure to take great pics that won't be blurry in low light situations, given the high ISO sensitivity. The lens is 28 - 105mm.

Listen up! Watch this video guide to the
Canon Powershot SD 4000 IS!

Key Facts:

Sensor 10 MP

Maximum Image Size

3648 x 2736
ISO Sensitivity 125 - 3200
Shutter Speed 15 - 1/2500 sec.
Flash Built in with options
LCD Screen Size 3"
Weight 175g
Dust Reduction Technology N/A
Movie Mode Yes

 

2. Canon Powershot S90

 

 


This is another first rate compact camera from Canon. Great image detail from a 10 MP sensor will allow you to create good sized prints of your photos.

One big reason why this is amongst the best buy cameras is that it has an easily accessed control ring around the lens (28 - 105mm) for manually controlling exposure. It also has all round great quality.

 

Key Facts:

Sensor 10MP

Maximum Image Size

3648 x 2736
ISO Sensitivity 80 - 3200
Shutter Speed 15 - 1/1600
Flash Built in with options
LCD Screen Size 3"
Weight 175g
Dust Reduction Technology N/A
Movie Mode Yes

 

 

Beginner Looking for a DSLR - What Camera Should I Buy!?

 

Interested in photography/really want to make the best of all photo opportunities?

Need a DSLR but nothing too professional?

Well, you can buy cameras online that belong in Nikon or Canon's beginner categories. Good quality DSLR models that won't send you into debt!

 

3. Canon EOS 550D / Rebel T2i

     

Now, listen up people, this really is one fabulous camera for its price.Not many cameras in a beginner range can offer an 18.7 MP sensor. Image detail = amazing!

It is well designed to fit in your hand comfortably. The light meter readings are consistently accurate, and all the functions are easy to use and understand.

At 530g it doesn't weigh much either, but it certainly packs a punch!

Watch a video review of the Rebel T2i

 

Key Facts:

Sensor 18.7 MP

Maximum Image Size

5184 x 3456
ISO Sensitivity 100 - 12800 (with H1)
Shutter Speed 30 - 1/4000 sec.
Flash Auto pop-up flash
LCD Screen Size 3"
Weight 530g
Dust Reduction Technology Filter on sensor vibrates
Movie Mode Yes

 

 

Best Buy Cameras for Enthusiastic Photographers

 

Really keen on photography and eager to improve - what camera should I buy!?

Perhaps the best camera to buy for you would be a 'prosumer' or enthusiast level model.

The first DSLR I actually owned was a second hand prosumer camera. I'd developed a love of taking pictures on my compact and went looking for the best deal I could find on a DSLR.

So whether stepping up from a compact or beginner DSLR, you can't go wrong with these two great cameras.

 

4. Nikon D300S

The Nikon D300S is undoubtedly one of the best prosumer cameras on the market. A good quality sensor, decent ISO sensitivity and 8 frames/second capability make it an excellent choice.

There is also - something I've often longed for when shooting - a quiet shutter release mode. The external buttons are helpfully sealed against moisture too.

The D300 feels very nice indeed in the hand. It is beautifully designed and definitely one of the best buy cameras!

Check out this video review of the Nikon D300S!

 

Key Points:

Sensor 12.3

Maximum Image Size

4288 x 2848
ISO Sensitivity 200 - 6400
Shutter Speed 30 - 1/8000 sec.
Flash Built in speedlight.
LCD Screen Size 3"
Weight 918g
Dust Reduction Technology Self cleaning sensor unit
Movie Mode Yes

 

 

    5. Canon EOS 7D

One of the best Canon digital cameras in terms of ergonomics and how it feels in your hands. Superb resolution and low amounts of noise at higher ISO sensitivity levels ensure quality images in all situations.

8 frames can be shot be second, so great for wildlife and sports photography. A big, clear viewfinder helps when setting up a shot.

The Canon EOS 7D is a semi-professional camera.

Key points:

Sensor 18 MP

Maximum Image Size

5184 x 3456
ISO Sensitivity 100 - 12800 (with H)
Shutter Speed 30 - 1/8000 sec.
Flash Auto pop-up flash
LCD Screen Size 3"
Weight 820g
Dust Reduction Technology Filter on sensor vibrates
Movie Mode No

 


Sign up to the Photography Art Lovers newsletter!

Free downloadable book, Getting Started With Photoshop, for all subscribers.

Email


First Name

Then...

 

So there are my personal views on the best buy cameras. They are all brilliant value and would serve any photographer well.

Remember, don't be afraid to buy used cameras - you can find some amazing deals. Amazon, B&H Photo and sometimes eBay are good places to buy cameras online. As always with eBay, only buy from a reputable seller!

 

Have Your Say and Share Your Photos

Have you ever snapped up a real bargain on a camera!? Tell us about it! Share your stories and opinions on the best buy cameras out there.


Contribute
an article


Join a
discussion


Share your
photos


Where Next?

Compact Digital Camera Reviews

Canon Reviews

Nikon Reviews

Return from Best Buy Cameras to Photography Equipment

Return from Best Buy Cameras to Photography Art Cafe

Untitled Document

Like This Page?

New! Comments

Have your say and share your thoughts below!

Share these suggestions for best buy cameras