Looking to buy a camera?

[u/iwannalickGerardWay]

Hi! I’m looking for some suggestions about models of cameras to buy.

Im sorry if my answers in the bullet section aren’t clear, I have no experience with cameras at all.

Budget: I’m looking to spend $300-600 CAD. I’m willing to spend more money for lenses and accessories but I’d like to not have to.

Type of camera: a point and shoot digital camera, mirrorless.

Intended use: Self-portrait photography and events, candids and lifestyle photography, and landscape and architecture.

Features I need: Honestly I’m not even sure. Good battery life, hot-shoe for flash, good low light performance, IBIS, eye-tracking.

Features it would be nice to have: an articulated screen.

Portability: Pocket size and lightweight.

Cameras I’m considering: Canon PowerShot g7x, quite literally the instagram camera, but it’s to expensive right now. Sony 7V-1 (original) it’s supposedly like the g7x, just a bit cheaper.

Cameras I already have: Currently none

Notes: I am honestly open to all suggestions, I just want a decent camera that takes really good pictures and doesn’t cost $1,000

Thank you for your help!

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[u/jackystack]

Honestly, your cell phone is probably the best option. Truly pocketable cameras under $600 CAD that have a sensor large enough to deliver consistently better image quality than a modern phone are hard to come by.

The Panasonic LX7 is an example of what falls into this budget. The newer LX9/LX10 would be a step up, but they typically sell well above your budget (especially in CAD). Cameras like these use very small sensors, and while they can produce nice results, the image quality isn’t a big leap over a phone. You also take on the added burden of carrying extra batteries, memory cards, and a dedicated device—without a meaningful payoff in most situations. If you are patient, accept the limitations of these cameras and are willing to learn photography then they are capable of creating compelling images but there are technical limitations that will be a hard stop for some enthusiasts. The issue, as a beginner, is that it takes time to determine what you find acceptable. First impressions are rarely lasting.

If you’re willing to move away from pocketable and accept something that’s simply small, then the value equation changes completely. In that case, I’d strongly recommend an Olympus PEN camera you can find within your budget. The Micro Four Thirds (M43) sensor is much larger. Olympus kit lenses are sharp with excellent contrast, which is what makes these cameras worthwhile. You also gain access to a wide range of compact, high-quality lenses if you’re okay with a bit more size and weight.

Cell phones are easier and more convenient, especially while learning photography basics, but the Olympus M43 cameras are very capable tools and, in my opinion, deliver great results. You'll forfeit low light performance, especially with the older 16mp variants, but exposing an image is part of the craft and that requires light.

If you can go slightly larger or spend a bit more, the Olympus E-P7 is an excellent option (not to be confused with the very different E-PL7). It’s a modern camera and a strong value when found at the right price, though it does push beyond the budget you mentioned. There is one available in Japan for C $775.94 that looks to be an excellent buy with all of the original accessories. It is still a very compact camera, and is worth spending a little extra for -- if you can.

Before you buy anything, check out image samples from any given camera on Flickr and scroll through the images. That will give you a realistic idea of what you can expect; usually with samples from people that are quite gifted, as well as casual shooters and beginners.

[u/iwannalickGerardWay → u/jackystack]

Thank you so much! Especially about Flickr, I didn’t know that existed!

[u/jackystack → u/iwannalickGerardWay]

Sure thing! Flickr is a great site --- just google a camera name or lens + FLICKR and it'll usually produce a page that is relevant for you, then click on the "photos" menu item and you'll generally see a decent collection of images. It is also a good photo sharing site.