Best Canon Camera For Beginners – Comparison Table
Best Canon Camera For Beginners – Reviews
First up, we have the Canon EOS R. This is a full-frame mirrorless interchangeable lens camera announced by Canon on September 9, 2017, and released in November 2017.
It has an APS-C-sized CMOS sensor with 24MP resolution (24 megapixels), and it can record 4K video at 30fps or 1080p HD video at 60fps.
The body of this camera weighs about 1.3kg (2.9lbs).
It also features dual SD card slots that support UHS-II memory cards, which can record ten times faster than standard SD cards.
There are two control dials on top of the camera to adjust settings such as ISO sensitivity.
A 3-inch touchscreen display sits above the viewfinder for easy access to shooting modes and menus.
The camera uses Dual Pixel autofocus technology for fast focusing and accurate tracking of moving subjects.
We found it worked incredibly well in low-light conditions when we tested this camera. We were able to take photos in complete darkness without any issues.
In fact, the only time we had trouble taking photos was when there was too much ambient light around us.
Our only complaint with this camera is its battery. The camera's battery life is rated at 250 shots per charge, which should be more than enough for most people.
However, if you're planning to use this camera regularly during longer trips, then you'll want to invest in a spare battery pack.
- Dual SD Card Slots – This camera supports dual SD card slots so you can store your images on one card while simultaneously using another. This means you don't need to carry extra SD cards along with you.
- Faster Autofocus – The Dual Pixel autofocus system allows for quick and accurate focus even in low-light situations.
- Full Frame Sensor – The EOS R has a full-frame sensor, which gives it better image quality compared to other cameras.
- Battery Life – The camera's battery life isn't very long. You will probably only get about 250 shots before needing to recharge.
Next on our list is the Panasonic GH5S. This camera was announced on October 25, 2017, and released in December 2017.
It has a Micro Four Thirds size CMOS sensor with 20.3MP resolution (20.3 megapixels), which makes it smaller than many competitors' sensors.
This camera records videos in 4K at up to 60fps and FullHD at 120fps, but it doesn't have RAW file format support.
It has a built-in OLED electronic viewfinder that provides 100% coverage of the frame and a tilting LCD screen that flips out from the back of the camera.
There are three control dials on top for adjusting settings like ISO sensitivity and shutter speed.
These dials are similar to those used on DSLR cameras and they make changing these settings easier.
There are several buttons on the side of the camera for quickly accessing different functions. For example, there is a button on the left side that takes pictures.
On the right side, there is a button that lets you switch between video recording and photo recording.
During testing, this camera performed well in low light. We didn't notice any problems capturing clear images or videos in dimly lit areas.
However, it doesn't perform as well as other competitors in very dark conditions. Therefore, you will need at least a small amount of light in the environment to produce a good photo.Â
We noticed that the GH5S does not have an optical zoom lens. Instead, it relies on digital zoom to increase the magnification of the image.
To compensate for this, the camera offers a 2x telephoto lens.
However, this is still an excellent camera for the price – it did everything we needed it to, and it looks great, which is an added bonus!
- Great Image Quality – The GH5S produces high-quality photos and videos. Its micro four-thirds sensor ensures sharp images and detailed colors.
- Built-In Viewfinder – The built-in electronic viewfinder provides 100% coverage of your frame. It also features a large 1.04 million dot OLED display that shows the live preview of what you're shooting.
- Good in Low Light – This camera performed well in low light, which would make it a great choice for professional and amateur photographers alike.
- No RAW Format Support – The GH5S doesn't record raw files, so you won't be able to edit them after taking them.
- Battery Life – The battery life on the GH5S is pretty short. You can expect around 200 shots per charge
Now let's take a look at a classic name in the photography game with the Nikon D780.
This camera was announced in November 2016 and released in April 2018 and has a full-frame CMOS sensor with 24.1MP resolution (24 megapixels).
The Nikon D780 records videos in 1080p at up to 60fps, 720p at up to 240fps, and 480p at up to 960 fps.
It also has a 3.2-inch touchscreen monitor that displays live previews of your photos and videos.
The Nikon D780 has a built-in viewfinder that covers 100 percent of the frame.
There is also a touch panel on the camera's rear that allows you to adjust settings while viewing through the viewfinder.
This camera has some nice features, including:
- A shutter release button on the front of the body
- A standard tripod mount
- An optional grip accessory
- Multiple exposure modes
- In-camera HDR mode
- A built-in GPS receiver
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Bluetooth connectivity
- NFC technology
The Nikon still took some stunning pictures in low-light conditions as we hoped. In fact, it outperformed most cameras when it came to producing quality photos in low light!
Each picture came out crystal clear, and dimmer conditions in no way compromised the quality of our pictures.Â
However, the Nikon D780 does not offer RAW format support. So if you want to edit your photos later on, you'll need to use third-party software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom.
- Excellent Low Light Performance – We saw some impressive results when using the Nikon D780 in low light. Even though the camera lacks RAW format support, it produced some amazing photos.
- Built-In Wi-Fi Connectivity – With built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, you can connect the Nikon D780 to your smartphone or tablet over Bluetooth. Then, you can remotely control the camera from anywhere.
- Viewfinder Coverage – The viewfinder on this camera offers 100 percent frame coverage. That means you don't have to guess where you will place your subject.
- Short Battery Life – The battery on the Nikon D780 lasts about 180 shots. If you shoot often, you may run into problems sooner than expected.
- Battery Grip – While the Nikon D780 includes an included battery grip, it only comes with one battery. To solve this problem, you will need to purchase another battery separately.
Now, let's explore the power of the FujiFilm X-T4. This camera was announced back in September 2017 and released in May 2019. It has a full-frame CMOS sensor with APS-C size.
It records videos in 4K at up to 60fps and Full HD at up to 120fps. It also has a 2.36 million dot OLED electronic viewfinder that offers 100 percent field of view.
The FujiFilm X-T3 has a 3 inch LCD screen that displays live previews of photos and video. You can even see what effect each setting has on the image before taking the shot.
This camera has many nice features, including:
- Fuji's Intelligent Hybrid AF system
- Focusing speeds of 0.06 seconds
- ISO range of ISO 100 to ISO 25600
- Autofocus points include 51 (including 10 cross-type)
- A maximum shutter speed of 1/32000 sec
- Built-in GPS receiver
- NFC technology
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Multiple Exposure Modes
The FujiFilm X T4 takes some great photos in low light. We were impressed by how well it performed in dimly lit environments during testing. We could capture sharp images even when shooting at night.
However, we do feel that the lack of RAW format support limits its editing potential.
- Intelligent Hybrid AF System – Using Fujifilm's new hybrid autofocus system, this camera is able to focus quickly and accurately.
- Fast Shutter Speeds – At 0.06 seconds, this camera allows for fast shutter speeds.
- High-Quality Images – The FujiFilm X-T2 produces high-quality images in low light. Its large sensor captures more light compared to other DSLRs.
- No RAW Format Support – Since this camera doesn't record RAW files, you won't be able to edit them later on. However, you can still use the JPEGs for post-processing.
- No Built-In Viewfinder – Since the FujiFilm X-t4 does not come with a viewfinder, you'll have to buy one separately.
Last on our list is the Pentax K-3 Mark III. We were excited to test this camera, and it didn't disappoint!
This camera was announced in August 2018 and released in April 2019.
It has a 24 megapixel APS-C-sized CMOS sensor with phase detection autofocus. It also has a tilting touchscreen display that lets you compose pictures easily.
You can take advantage of the built-in Wi-Fi feature so you can share your images online instantly.
This camera has several nice features, including:
- 24MP Live MOS Sensor – This camera provides excellent detail and clarity with a 24 MP Live MOS sensor.
- Shooting Speed – The Pentax K-3 can shoot at a blazing 12 fps.
- Touchscreen Display – This camera has a tilting touch screen display, making it easy to frame shots.
And to answer that all-important question… Yes, this camera took some excellent pictures in low light.
In fact, it performed so well during testing that it may give our other competitors a run for their money!
Our pictures came out clean and crisp in dim environments, and we were able to get good exposures even during nighttime.
We love the Pentax K-III because it gives us the best of both worlds. It shoots great quality images, but it also offers an intuitive interface.
But since it lacks RAW format support, you won't be editing these images later on. Our only other complaint with this camera is that it isn't weatherproof.
But if you're looking for a camera that will produce beautiful images in any lighting condition, then this should definitely be on your shortlist.
- Great Low Light Performance – This camera performs exceptionally well when taking pictures in low light.
- Touch Screen Interface – The Pentax K3 comes with a tilting touchscreen display. This makes it easier to compose images while using the camera.
- Weatherproof Design – Unlike most cameras, the Pentax K-03 is weatherproof. You can take it outside without worrying about getting rained on or snowed on.
- No Raw File Support – Like the FujiFilm X-T4, this camera doesn't record raw files. So you won't be able to edit these images later on.
- Not Weatherproof – Unfortunately, this camera isn't weatherproof, so you won't be able to take it out in wet and rainy conditions safely.
Best Low light Camera DSLR Camera– Buyers Guide
Buying a new camera is a big investment. Do you know exactly what you should be looking for?
Before you set your heart on a new low-light DSLR camera, let us give you a few words of wisdom to get you on your way.
Mirrorless or Full-Frame?
First off, you need to decide whether you want a mirrorless or full-frame model. Mirrorless models are smaller than traditional DSLRs, and they don't use glass lenses.
They do, however, offer many advantages over traditional DSLRs. For example, they have better image quality due to their larger sensors.
Mirrorless cameras also tend to be cheaper than full-frame cameras. S
o if you plan on keeping your camera for more than five years, then you'll probably save money by going with a mirrorless model.Â
Budget
Next, you need to figure out how much money you're willing to spend.
Full-frame cameras start at around $1,000, whereas mirrorless models typically cost less than half as much.
However, there's no guarantee that a lower price means a lower quality product. Therefore, we recommend researching each brand before making a purchase decision.
Sensor Size
The next thing you need to consider is sensor size. A larger sensor allows for higher resolution photos.
Most mirrorless cameras come with APS-C-sized sensors, which provide very high-quality images.
On the flip side, full-frame cameras usually feature larger sensors, which allow for greater detail when shooting landscapes and portraits.
Low-Light Capabilities
Most importantly, though, you need to figure out how well your model shoots in low-light.
If you're planning on doing lots of night photography, then you'll want to look into the capabilities of your camera.
Some cameras have excellent low-light performance, whereas others struggle to capture clear images even under moderate lighting conditions.
Lens Type
Another important consideration is lens type. There are two types of lenses: fixed focal length lenses (also known as prime lenses) and zoom lenses.
Fixed focal length lenses are great if you're interested in capturing specific subjects such as landscapes, architecture, and still life.
Zoom lenses, on the other hand, are good for general photography because they allow you to change the focal length of your lens.
If you're not sure which type of lens you prefer, we suggest starting with a fixed focal length lens. Once you've mastered using that lens, you can move on to a zoom lens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Sensor Size Is Good For Low-Light Photography?Â
APS-C and Micro Four Thirds are both great options for low-light photography. The only difference between these two sizes is that APS-C has a slightly smaller sensor.
This doesn't matter all that much, but it does mean that you'll have to crop your images down to fit them onto an APS-C-sized frame.Â
What Lens Should You Use With A Low-Light Camera?Â
A wide-angle lens is ideal for taking pictures in dimly lit environments.
You can get away with using a standard 50mm f/1.8 lens on most mirrorless cameras, although some models may require a faster aperture like f/2.
What Shutter Speed Should You Use For Low Light?
You don't necessarily need to worry about shutter speeds when photographing in low-light situations.
In fact, many photographers choose to leave their shutters open until the last possible moment.
However, you will want to make sure that your ISO setting isn't too high so that you don't end up with blurry shots.
Final Thoughts
There are plenty of factors to consider when choosing a new DSLR or mirrorless camera.
It's always best to do your research first and then pick the right model based on what features you value most.
Although the thought of committing to a new low-light DSLR camera may seem overwhelming, we hope we've shown you that with enough research and a better understanding of the work you're doing, it doesn't have to be!Â
Remember: if you're not sure what model to go for, take another look at our top five low-light DSLR cameras.
We genuinely believe there's something for every kind of photographer in our mix!