An entry level DSLR camera is a perfect gift for someone who is a huge photo enthusiast, but is just starting to explore his /her passion. There are plenty of great DSLRs available in the market today, but picking the right one can be tricky. When it comes to picking one for a beginner, you need to make sure that the camera does not offer too many options and features that can becoming too overwhelming. If you plan on picking up a camera for a novice, consider one of these best entry level DSLR cameras.
Best Entry Level DSLR Cameras for Beginners
Nikon D3300 ($446)
The Nikon D3300 is one the best entry level DSLR cameras you can get under $500. Its 24.2 megapixel sensor combined with the EXPEED 4 processing engine produces the most stunning images with exceptional sharpness and detail. The camera is highly portable, weighing just 460 grams and offering an extended ISO range of 100-12800 so you can capture the most amazing pictures on your travels.
If you are new to the DSLR camera, you can make use of the Guide mode to help you capture images in a variety of scenarios. You don’t even have to tweak the camera settings as its all pre-set for you. The Nikon D3300 also has a full color RGB metering sensor and a 5 frames per second shooting speed to make your shots look awesome every time.
The camera also comes with a 18–55mm, f/3.5–5.6 lens, which though not top of its class still offers great value for a beginner. The camera is easy to use, doesn’t overwhelm with options and allows enough room for anyone to develop their skills and grow comfortable with the various camera options.
Check out the Nikon D3300 on Amazon
Samsung NX3000 ($428)
Another great entry level DSLR is the Samsung NX3000. It comes with a 20MP megapixel APS-C sensor that can capture life like images in high resolution. The ISO range is from 100-25600 making it easy to capture images in different lighting situations.
The camera also comes bundled with a 16-50mm power zoom lens that lets you capture wide-angle landscapes easily. The 3 inch flip up LCD is perfect for taking cool selfies while the wink shot feature can snap images at the blink of an eye. Sharing images captured on the Samsung NX3000 is also easy thanks to the built-in WiFi, NFC and AutoShare functionality that automatically transfers images to your mobile device.
The camera is also capable of 1080p Full HD video recording at 30 frames per second, and the H.264 format lets you record longer MPEG-4 videos. Apart from the multiple automatic settings, the camera also includes options for manual control.
Check out the Samsung NX3000 on Amazon
Sony a5100 ($528)
The Sony a5100 is a compact camera with touch screen capability. It comes with a 24 megapixel Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor that offers top of the class resolution in DSLRs. The a5100 can shoot in low light conditions with its ISO range of 100-25600 and it has an advanced 179 point AF (auto focus) system that is capable of capturing moving objects effortlessly.
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Video enthusiasts can capture Full HD 1920 x 1080 videos in cinematic 24p or at incredible 60p and 60i frame-rates. The low powered built in flash and 3 inch flip touchscreen makes it easy to capture high and low angles in HD. Apart from its beginner level auto controls,the camera also offers extensive manual controls that are perfect for beginners to progress to the next level of learning.
Check out the Sony a5100 on Amazon
Canon EOS Rebel T6i Digital SLR ($749)
If you are looking for affordability without compromising on basic SLR performance, the canon EOS T6i or 750D is one of the entry level best picks of 2015 from Canon. The camera comes with a 24MP CMOS sensor that produces fantastic image quality even in low light conditions.
The 3 inch LCD flip can rotate up to 270 degrees, which is great for video recording. The ISO sensitivity is 100–12800 but can be expanded to 25600. Built in WiFi and NFC makes sharing the photos captured easy. Capturing self portraits and group photos is also possible if you use compatible smartphones or tablets to remotely control the camera.
A couple of things that you need to consider before you buy the Canon EOS Rebel T6i include the fact that the camera is not too great when it comes to capturing moving objects and that the camera has a comparatively weaker battery life when compared to its competitors.
Check out the Canon EOS Rebel T6i Digital SLR on Amazon
Olympus E-M10 ($499)
The last in our recommended list of the best entry level DSLR cameras for beginners, street photographers and students is the Olympus E-M10. It is almost a light weight version of its E-M5 and professional E-M1 cameras, combining the E-M1’s powerful image processor and similar AA-filterless sensor with the E-M5’s compact design.
Impressive image quality, dynamic range and superb ISO performance, high quality HD videos, built in WiFi, a whole lot of customization options, dials and buttons make the Olympus E-M10 a great recommendation for both entry level shooters and professionals alike.
Check out the Olympus E-M10 on Amazon
For in-depth reviews and sample images of the best entry level DSLR cameras listed here, you can check out the Image-Resource blog.
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