So, you’ve decided to buy a camera. Congratulations! You’re about to enter a world of endless debates, deep rabbit holes of technical jargon, and the realization that camera gear can quickly drain your bank account. But don’t worry - keeping a few things in mind might help make the process a little less overwhelming (and maybe even fun).

First Things First: There Are No Bad Cameras

Seriously. If a company is making modern digital cameras, they’re producing quality gear. The idea that one brand is universally better than another is a myth. Each manufacturer has its own strengths and quirks, but at the end of the day, they all make solid cameras capable of producing stunning images.

When I first started looking for a camera, I did what any rational person would do: I binge-watched what felt like a hundred YouTube videos, read countless reviews, and went deep into the forums where photography nerds argue about specs like their lives depend on it (thank god for Ken Rockwell). And after all that research? I ended up with a Sony. Not because it was the “best” brand, but because it best suited my needs.

Find the Right Camera For You

That’s the key here - choosing a camera is about finding what works for you. Some people swear by Fujifilm because of its film-like colors and retro aesthetics. Others love Canon for its intuitive menus and beginner-friendly approach. Nikon users appreciate their cameras' rugged build and great image quality. And Sony? Well, Sony cameras may not have the most "soul," but they’re fast, reliable, and packed with cutting-edge tech, even though it took me a week to figure out their menu.

So, how do you figure out what camera is right for you? It all comes down to a few important factors: your budget, your interests, and your future needs. Let’s break it down.

Check Your Wallet

Before diving headfirst into specs, megapixel counts, and sensor sizes, set a realistic budget. Camera prices span a vast range, from budget-friendly beginner models to high-end professional setups that cost as much as a used car. But remember, your budget shouldn’t just cover the camera body. Factor in the cost of lenses, memory cards, batteries, a sturdy bag, and maybe even a tripod - because spoiler alert: the camera alone won’t get you very far.

And then there’s the irresistible urge to keep upgrading, accessorizing, and justifying why you absolutely need that new lens or fancier camera body. Trust me, it’s real. To keep your bank account from crying, prioritize what you actually need over what looks cool in an unboxing video.

Also, be brutally honest with yourself: are you someone who will actually use the camera, or will it reside in a cupboard, slowly fading out of mind? A high-end camera can be an amazing investment, but if it ends up collecting dust on a shelf while you keep shooting on your phone, you might as well have spent that money on something else, like plane tickets to a place worth photographing.

Tip: Consider buying second-hand. Sites like MPB.com offer gently used gear at a fraction of the price. Most cameras are built to last, and a well-maintained model from a few years ago can perform just as well as a brand-new one. Plus, less money spent on gear = more money for travel, experiences, and actually putting your camera to use, which, at the end of the day, is what really matters.

Figure Out What You Actually Want to Shoot

Once you’ve set a budget, ask yourself: “what kind of photography excites me the most?" Do you dream of capturing cinematic street scenes on 35mm film, or do you prefer the freedom to take 500 digital shots just to get the one?

Film photography: for the purists, romantics, and those with (too much) time on their hands

If you love the nostalgic, organic look of film, enjoy the process of developing negatives, and don’t mind the added cost of buying rolls and getting them processed, film cameras might be your thing. There’s a certain excitement in knowing each shot counts - you can’t just snap away and hope for the best. Film forces you to slow down, think about composition, and embrace imperfection.

Digital photography: for the control freaks and rapid-fire shooters

If you prefer instant feedback, the ability to shoot thousands of images without worrying about cost, and the flexibility to tweak everything in post-production, a digital camera is the way to go. You can shoot, check your exposure, adjust settings, and immediately try again. Plus, digital cameras make it much easier to experiment with different styles, which is especially useful if (like me) you tend to be a “run-and-gun” photographer who likes capturing moments on the fly.

That said, if you're just starting out, going digital might be the smarter move. Digital cameras (whether DSLR or mirrorless) offer instant feedback, allowing you to learn from your mistakes in real time without the added pressure of wasting film. Plus, you won’t have to worry about accidentally loading the film wrong or opening the back cover of the camera before the film is fully wound up (yes, it happens).

Future Needs Are Underrated

Once you know your shooting style, it’s time to think ahead, since once you start out with photography, you’re probably not stopping anytime soon. While a camera body is important, lenses and accessories will shape your experience over time. Investing in a system with a broad selection of lenses, including third-party options, can keep long-term costs lower and expand your creative possibilities.

Also, think about where you want to take your photography in the future. Will you eventually want to upgrade lenses? Do you see yourself expanding into video? Choosing a camera that offers flexibility ensures your setup can grow with you.

My Non-Negotiables in a Camera

Choosing a camera is a deeply personal decision, and what works for me might not be the perfect fit for you. That said, here are the key things I prioritize when picking a camera - things that make my shooting experience smoother, more enjoyable, and, most importantly, frustration-free.

1. Interchangeable lenses – because variety is the spice of life

While fixed-lens cameras like the Fuji X100V are undeniably fantastic, I prefer the flexibility of interchangeable lenses. One day you might want to shoot dreamy portraits with a razor-thin depth of field, and the next, you might be capturing sweeping landscapes that demand a wide-angle lens. Having the option to switch things up keeps creativity flowing. And let’s be honest, no matter how much you convince yourself that one lens is all you need, give it a few months. That itch to buy another lens? Yeah, it’s coming. Might as well embrace it from the start.

2. Decent autofocus – because life moves fast

If I’m trying to capture a fleeting moment, the last thing I want is my camera struggling to find focus like a lost puppy. A fast, reliable autofocus system is a must, especially for those who shoot fast-moving subjects, be it street photography, wildlife, or just an impatient friend who refuses to stand still for a portrait.

Some cameras have such a sublime autofocus system, it’s like they read your mind.

3. At least around 25MP – because cropping is my safety net

Having at least 25 megapixels gives you the flexibility to crop without losing too much detail, which is especially handy for beginners still perfecting their framing. I’ll admit, there have been plenty of times when I’ve taken a shot only to later realize that my composition was questionable at best. Having extra resolution lets me refine my framing in post, saving shots that might have otherwise been unusable. It’s not about chasing megapixels for the sake of it, but having a bit of breathing room can make a real difference.

4. A strong selection of lenses – because more options equals more creativity

A camera body is great, but what really shapes your images are the lenses you pair with it. That’s why I prefer camera systems with a wide selection of native and third-party lenses.

Why third-party lenses? Two reasons. First of all, they can be significantly cheaper while still offering incredible quality. And since third party lenses means more competition for your camera brand, their own native lenses might be priced sharper as well. Secondly, they open up more creative possibilities, offering unique focal lengths, apertures, and looks that might not exist in the native lens lineup.

5. An enjoyable user experience – because if it’s a pain to use, you won’t use it

The best camera isn’t just the one with the best specs, it’s the one you actually enjoy picking up. Ergonomics, button layout, menu system, and overall feel matter more than people think. If a camera feels awkward in your hands, has a menu system that requires a PhD to navigate, or makes you fight with it every time you want to change a setting, you’ll end up using it less. And what’s the point of a high-end camera if it just collects dust?

A camera should feel like an extension of yourself, something that inspires you to go out and shoot, rather than something that frustrates you into leaving it at home.

What I Started With and Why I Chose Sony

For my needs, I lean toward full-frame cameras. The image quality, dynamic range, and flexibility in post-processing (especially cropping) make them worth it for me.

I started out with my mom’s Canon 600D, a terrific beginner camera that’s easy to use, straightforward, and delivers great image quality for an affordable price. It was the perfect introduction to photography - simple enough not to intimidate, yet powerful enough to take some solid shots.

I also spent quite some time using a friend’s Fujifilm X-T4, an aesthetically pleasing camera that not only looked beautiful but also produced some fantastic images. Fujifilm cameras have a certain charm, and I definitely understand why so many people love them.

In the end, I chose Sony because it aligned best with my future needs: loads of third-party lenses (which help bring costs down), outstanding autofocus, and a full-frame sensor that gives me flexibility when cropping. While Sony cameras may not have the same “soul” or lack a certain “je ne sais quoi” compared to an old Nikon film camera, they’re reliable, high-performing tools that consistently deliver excellent results. Despite their complicated menu systems, when I show up at a shoot, I know I can rely on my Sony to deliver exactly how I want it to and it always does. Basically, they’re like that dependable friend who always shows up on time - maybe not the life of the party, but you can count on them when you need them.

Final Words: Just Pick One Already

You can watch all the YouTube videos you can find and read all the Ken Rockwell reviews online, but at the end of the day, any camera will do the job - it’s how you use it that matters. Just go for one of them and you’ll be happy. To quote my friend @vdvisuals “just buy it now, we know you’re going to get it anyway”.

The best camera is the one you have in your hands when the moment presents itself, so don’t get too caught up in the technical details. Find something that fits your needs, feels comfortable to use, and inspires you to create. The rest will fall into place as you grow in your photography journey. And if all else fails, just remember: even the fanciest camera in the world can’t fix bad composition - but a little practice can.

How to Choose a Camera that Suits You