The first photograph, titled ‘View from the Window at Le Gras', was taken by Joseph Nicéphore Niépce at his family's home in the year 1826.
In the almost two hundred years since then, photography has become a booming industry as well as the passion of millions across the world.
From selfies to sunsets, classic cars to jovial celebrations, people are snapping photographs of everything they see, and everywhere they go.
As many carry around a camera of at least respectable quality contained in their glued-to-hand cell phones, they can easily snap, record, and live stream through their various channels of virtual expression and identity.
Canon Inc was founded as Precision Optical Instruments, Co., Ltd. in 1937, in Tokyo, Japan.
Since the 1950s, they have been at the forefront of the camera industry, consistently pushing the envelope towards new ideas and exciting technological advances.
The company released their first mass-produced camera, the ‘VT', in 1956, which was followed by the first 35 mm Single Lens Reflex (SLR) camera, the Canon Flex, in 1959.
The company's first digital SLR camera was the 3.1 megapixel D30 which was released in 2000, and since then the digital camera industry has grown exponentially.
Choosing a camera, especially for a novice, beginner or newly curious photographer, can be a mind-bending frustration.
With such a fantastic wealth of options available, knowing where to start looking can be a head spinner in itself.
That's why this article will break down all things Canon cameras, looking at some of the best Canon cameras out there which are suitable for beginners.
We will look at their technical specifications design features and peek at some of the awesome accessories that are included with some deals.
Best Canon Camera For Beginners – Comparison Table
Best Canon Camera For Beginners – Reviews
The Canon EOS RP is a Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens camera that comes packed with features for its compact size.
Powered by a DIGIC 8 Image Processor, the camera is capable of 4k UHD 2160p video capture, perfect for those filming on the go or perhaps those individuals recording for their travel or lifestyle blog.
The incredible Vari-Angle 3-inch 1.04 million-dot touchscreen allows for smooth use and easy viewing of your photographs.
The design is tight and lightweight, yet it’s packed with power.
It features incredibly fast autofocus that can focus on the subject in only 0.05 seconds, ensuring you don’t miss those fleeting moments that can pass us by.
The model features a range of AF modes to help maintain a sharp focus in several environments. The EOS RP also features a broad zoom range, including wide-angle, normal, telephoto, and wide zoom.
You can use Canon’s Digital Photo Professional Express software, and Camera Connect app to easily store, share, and edit the photos you’ve taken.
- 4K UHD 2160p video capture resolution
- Vari-Angle 3” 1.04 million-Dot Clear View LCD II touchscreen
- Compact & Lightweight Design
- High-Quality RF24-105 mm F4-7.1 IS STM lens featuring Versatile Zoom Range
- Fast autofocus in approximately 0.05 seconds
- The 4k video is subject to a 1.6x crop
This is also available at Best Buy
- 3.0″ 1.04 million-Dot Vari-Angle Touchscreen
- 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor & DIGIC 8 Image Processor
- Wide range of scene modes
- UHD 4K 24p Video, 4K Time-Lapse Movie & UHD 4K Video Recording
- Canon EF-S 18-55 mm F/3.5-5.6 DC III Zoom Lens with Phase detection Autofocus
- Some users felt that 9 AP points aren’t enough for the Viewfinder AF system
This is also available at Best Buy
The Rebel T8i features a fantastic 45-point, All Cross-Type Phase-Detect Autofocus. Wow, that was a mouthful; try saying that five times fast!
It features the excellent 3.0″ 1.04 million-Dot Vari-Angle Touchscreen, which is clear even under bright sunlight and in gloomy conditions.
The 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor & DIGIC 8 Image Processor mean the camera has power and performance, with the Canon EF-S 18-55 mm f/4-5.6 IS STM Lens offering impressive zoom.
For those videographers out there, the Rebel T8i features UHD 4K24p video and vertical video support to ensure you can capture your subject in high-quality.
I found capturing video pretty easy after some helpful direction from my more knowledgeable friend.
This bundle also comes fully loaded with additional goodies, including wide-angle and telephoto lenses that offer a great scope of photography.
Though some buyers felt the design could be a bit bulky, I felt it handled quite well, though having bigger hands might well have helped me!
- 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor & DIGIC 8 Image Processor
- 3.0″ 1.04 million-Dot Vari-Angle Touchscreen
- Canon EF-S 18-55 mm f/4-5.6 IS STM Lens & additional lenses
- 45-Point All Cross-Type Phase-Detect Autofocus
- One year seller supplied warranty
- Some Canon users felt the design is bulky compared to other similar models.
This is also available at Walmart
Often the chosen model of the beginner or entry-level photography enthusiast, due to their renowned reputation and longevity.
It is easy and comfortable to use, whilst it is stuffed with useful features that provide a great introduction to many features of photography.
The Vari-Angle Touch Screen allows for recording from all angles, as well as making the camera easy to control once you’re up to speed.
It has great recording quality at 4k UHD 24p and also features the brilliant 120p for slow-motion recording. The viewfinder allows the user to gain a clear scope of the image in the frame.
It has live-streaming capabilities, great for all the vloggers out there, and the Dual Pixel CMOS Autofocus will ensure the star is front and center at all times.
- Vari-angle touchscreen LCD for clear and easy control
- 24.1 megapixel CMOS sensor with ISO 100-25600
- 4k UHD 24p recording quality & HD 120p slow motion
- Live-streaming capabilities
- Dual Pixel CMOS Autofocus & Eye Detection Autofocus
- Reports of reduced battery performance after extended use.
This is also available at Walmart
This is the first and only compact or point-and-click camera featured in our list.
As further touched on in the FAQ section, these cameras feature autofocus and other settings to allow a simple ‘point-and-click’ approach to photography.
The G7X Mark III is filled to the brim with features, and I found it easy to use.
As a complete amateur, other than some travel photos on my phone, I found this camera simple to use from the word go.
It features a 3-inch 1.04 million-Dot Touchscreen and a 24-100 mm (35 mm equivalent) Lens, which takes great quality snaps with ease.
The excellent specs include the 20. 1 Megapixel 1. 0” Stacked CMOS Sensor and DIGIC 8 Image Processor for optimum levels of power and performance.
The AiAF 31-point Autofocus system is fast-acting, and I found it to be incredibly accurate.
This camera is incredibly lightweight at only 304g including the battery and memory card, so it’s convenient and hassle-free to take with you on your various escapades and adventures.
- Easy to use ‘point-and-click’ compact camera
- 20. 1 Megapixel 1. 0” Stacked CMOS Sensor and DIGIC 8 Image Processor.
- 3-inch 1.04 million-Dot Touchscreen
- 24-100 mm (35 mm equivalent) Lens
- AiAF 31-point Autofocus system
- Incredibly compact and lightweight design
- Lacks the features and capabilities of DSLR or EOS cameras
This is also available from Canon
Best Canon Camera For Beginners– Buyers Guide
SLR VS DSLR
SLR cameras have a Single Lens and a Reflex. What is a Reflex? It refers to a Reflex mirror that focuses the light path into the optical viewfinder for framing.
The original SLR cameras featured film, and whilst some still do today, many of the current SLR ranges are digital themselves.
These cameras, when handled by someone with skill, are capable of capturing photos of incredible resolution and superior quality.
DSLR cameras are Digital SLRs, which means it uses a digital sensor to capture and record images.
These cameras feature helpful viewfinders for constant reviewing of photos, as well as the capacity to store huge volumes of images and recordings.
DSLR VS EOS
Each range offers a whole heap of quality capabilities and features, with both continuing to sell like hot cakes in today's ever-expanding market.
DSLR cameras generally feature improved battery life and more options with interchangeable lenses.
Furthermore, they are also capable of better photography in lower light thanks to the optical viewfinder.
EOS cameras typically have improved video recording quality, and the faster shutter speeds allow for more photos taken during each session.
These cameras are also lighter, so are more easily carried when not in use.
DSLR and EOS cameras are often a good choice for those learning their way with photography, as the digital data is easily managed and costs nothing compared to expensive film.
This is great, especially in the early days of one's photography adventure, as it takes time and many shots to develop one's craft and eye for detail.
Camera Features To Know About
Even the most basic of cameras these days is still loaded with varied features and settings that allow for creativity when taking photos.
Here we briefly touch on some of the key things to know when taking up photography or considering upgrading your current camera.
Focus:
Many models feature autofocus, which is a great help when learning, though this can be changed to manual once you're feeling confident.
Zoom:
There is a wide spectrum of zoom capability with the diverse range of cameras available today. The importance of zoom depends on the nature of the photographs you intend to take.
Zooming in too much, unless with seriously high spec equipment, can seriously reduce the quality of the captured image.
Viewfinder:
This allows the photographer to view the image that is currently framed by the camera, allowing for refined focus and positioning.
Grid Mode:
Grid mode displays a visual grid, allowing you to see how parts of the image will line up
Shutter Speed:
The speed at which the shutter of the camera closes. Faster shutter speeds create a shorter exposure, and slower speeds create a longer exposure.
Flash:
Of course, the flash can cause all sorts of issues when used in light conditions, though it can come in handy if you're photographing at night or in low light.
Exposure:
This allows the photographer to adjust the amount of light let into the photo before capture
Aperture:
The photographer can adjust the lens size for controlling light in the image
Color Balance:
This allows the user to adjust the color balance and counteract some undesired lighting effects
Additional Image Settings:
Manual mode allows for great control and range, whilst others such as portrait, landscape, or sport are pre-set to aid you in capturing quality photos.
ISO:
This represents the camera sensitivity to light, with a lower ISO value meaning less sensitivity to light, while a higher ISO means more sensitivity.
Equipment You Might Need
Haulage:
Keeping your camera in good condition is made easier if you are sure to keep it in a suitable camera case when not in use and when moved around.
If you have other accessories, lenses, or equipment, then ensure you have bags that are durable and large enough to take the load.
Using padded or reinforced bags and cases offers the best protection from possible scrapes or knocks, especially if you're traveling long-haul or in extreme climates.
Lenses:
These range in price, though they can reach incredible value for premium equipment.
These allow for a wider range of photographs to be taken, with lenses emphasizing certain points, features, or photographic styles.
Lighting:
Using additional lighting allows the photographer to change the dynamic of the colors, mood, and tone in the photo.
Storage:
If taking digital photographs, then storing on memory cards and external hard drives is easy. Be sure to keep additional copies when possible in case of any loss or damage, and keep some in different bags!
Battery:
Taking additional batteries is essential on long shoots or those in which the photographer is looking to capture as much as possible in a short or fixed time.
Hygiene & Cleanliness:
Keep cleaning supplies for your hands and your equipment. Be sure to avoid putting dirt or other debris onto your equipment with dirty hands.
Also, ensure that you can keep the lens clean to ensure greater clarity.
Tripod/ Camera Stand:
If you wish to capture beautiful still images, then using a tripod or support frame can be a great help and far sturdier than holding in one's hand.
This also allows for you to feature in the images or certain techniques like time-lapse photography.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does EOS Mean With Canon Cameras?
Canon themselves describe EOS as meaning ‘Electro-Optical System', a term which the company has used with their autofocus cameras since the 1980s.
The autofocus aspect plays a part in why these cameras have become so popular, especially in recent years.
For novice or beginner photographers, a camera with autofocus can certainly be of great help, enabling them to capture higher-quality photos far quicker.
What Are ‘Point And Shoot’ Cameras?
Point-and-shoot cameras are also known as P&S Cameras and Compact Cameras.
These offer an improvement on most cell phone cameras, yet they are far simpler in operation than DSLR or EOS cameras.
They often feature autofocus and automatic settings for light, exposure, and flash, making taking a photo quite literally a ‘point-and-shoot’ process.
This makes them popular amongst people trying out photography for the first time, people vacationing or wanting to capture some special moments and joyous celebrations.
Although they do lack the features of their bigger brothers, these cameras can still be a great way for budding snappers to start developing their skills and eye for a picture.
Digital vs Film, Which Is Better?
Many photographers may have a preference for either film or digital, with each having its advantages and disadvantages.
With the digital age, digital photography has continued to evolve at a rapid rate, as we become more connected to our devices, taking digital snaps is convenient, and we can manage them with existing software or apps.
Despite the age of convenience, there has been a resurgence of people collecting and using film cameras, with many older models fetching higher prices than their modern counterparts.
So let's take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of both film and digital photography.
Film
Advantages
- Better at black and white photography due to higher dynamic range
- Incredible resolution
- Often cheaper to buy a film camera compared to new digital models
- Due to limited shots per film, more careful thought is required,
Disadvantages
- The film can be expensive and is an ongoing cost
- Lack of easy previews as with digital counterpart
- Requires film development before viewing – requires dark room or additional cost
- Often heavier than digital models
Digital
Advantages
- Often lighter than film models
- Many lower-spectrum models can still capture high-quality images
- Easy viewing on the camera
- Easy storage on storage cards or external storage units
- Editing is available at the touch of a button
- Built-in filters and settings for a wider range of shots immediately
Disadvantages
- Need to be at least a little tech-literate to sort out photos on a computer or tablet
- Often initial setup costs can be expensive
- Technology keeps advancing rapidly, meaning it can be outdated in a surprisingly short time
- Possible challenges with effective focusing in lower light
Final Thoughts
Photography is a fantastic interest to have and a wonderful passion to engage with. Photos allow us to capture both memories and experiences, a permanent reminder of special times.
Although it can seem daunting and somewhat confusing when starting out, we hope that this detailed guide will show you the way.
Canon has a sterling reputation and rich history in the photography and film industries. The company builds cameras of quality and high performance across their ranges.
You can feel confident that starting out with a Canon camera will be a positive first step.
Be sure to consider the guidance in our Buyer's Guide, and see what others have asked in our FAQ section. Happy snapping!