Yes, our phones take amazing pictures, some of them even better than most cameras. However, if you're truly serious about photography, then a DSLR is the logical choice. You can swap out lenses, have far more control over your aperture, shutter speed, and much more. If you're just getting started, then these are the best DSLRs for you.
This is the basic D3500 model, which comes with the standard 18-55mm lens and an ƒ/3.5-5.6 aperture. Nikon bills this as a DSLR that's as easy to use as a point-and-shoot camera, and that's mostly true. This is a 24.2-megapixel (MP) shooter that can shoot full HD 1080p video at up to 60FPS, and has built-in Bluetooth to view photos right on your phone.
If you want everything you need to get started shooting excellent photos and HD video, this is the kit you want. It comes with Canon's Rebel T6 DSLR with an 18-55mm lens, plus a 58mm wide angle lens, a 2X telephoto lens, a flash, two SD cards (16GB and 32GB), a UV filter kit, *and* a tripod. It really is everything you need to get going.
This bundle is perfect for the traveling photog. It includes the Canon Rebel T7i, the latest Rebel model, which is a 24.2MP shooter with an 18-55mm lens that comes standard. Then you get a camera backpack, a 64GB SD card, a monopod, a filter kit, a neck strap, a cleaning kit, and as a flash diffuser. Canon's settings are easy to learn, and this kit gives you the tools to experiment.
The is the perfect camera for the beginner who wants to shoot in all types of weather, as its operating temperature is between 14 degrees and 104 degrees Fahrenheit, and it's fully dustproof and water-resistant. It has a 24MP lens and a large LCD display, which folds out. It also has built-in Wi-Fi, so you can view photos right on your phone in real time. The K-70 has pretty standard settings that are easy enough to pick up over a short time.
The D3400 is the precursor to Nikon's D3500, but it's still an excellent 24.2MP camera that comes with a standard 18-55mm lens, and the bundle includes two 32GB SD cards, a three-piece filter kit, a 55mm wide angle lens, a telephoto lens, a flash, and a soft-shell gear bag.
This year's D model, the 5300 comes with a standard 18-55mm lens and shoots 24MP photos, as well as 1080p video at up to 60FPS. It also features built-in Wi-Fi for instant sharing as well as remote camera control and GPS.
Snap a photo
For a beginner, there's no need to drop $2,500 on a Leica or anything that high-end. Nikon and Canon's offerings are the perfect blend of function and affordability for the novice photographer. If you're looking for a great experience out of the box, then the Nikon D3500 (opens in new tab) has the perfect blend of current features and an easy setup, without much of a learning curve.