A general overview of the camera situation:
Canon currently produce two major types of cameras: Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLRs). While there are still some available on the market, they are being phased out in favour of a whole (relatively) new platform, the Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Cameras (MILCs) of the R-series cameras. Canon introduced their first ones about 6 years ago and have dramatically expanded their range of bodies and lenses ever since. The DSLR line is shrinking and lenses for those bodies are being gradually phased out. Consequently, while you can pick up some very cheap DSLRs, the question you need to ask yourself is if you want to engage with a platform that will grow with you or go for a cheaper, but limited time one.
Like most of my colleagues, I would recommend the MILC platform. Not only is this expanding in range and capability, but the cameras offer many features not available in the DSLR one, such as the ability to track faces and eyes, enhanced features to help you get sharp images by reducing camera shake. Like the DSLR line, the R-platform is broken down into two major groups:
- Full-Frame: the sensor on these units is the same size as the negative of a 35mm film (24x36mm). These cameras tend to be slightly bigger and may be more expensive, but are great in low light and for such applications as portraiture or landscape work.
- APS-C, or Crop Sensor: this term comes because the sensor is smaller than the Full-Frame one, and as such gathers overall less light. This makes is a bit less of a performer in low light, but is definitely more economical and the cameras are usually more compact. These units are favoured by wildlife photographers as they offer benefits for shooting with telephoto lenses.
The other major factor is lenses - one that is arguably more important than the body, because lenses do not change anywhere as quickly as camera bodies do.
The lenses for the R -series cameras are identified as RF (for Full-Frame and APS-C ) or RF-S units that should be used only on APS-C bodies.
There might seem a lot to consider, which is why I pointed you to the link I sent on buying camera gear, as it expresses the elements you need to consider less in technical terms and more in how you will actually use the camera and what outcomes you want. From there, people with technical knowledge - either here or at a camera store (in that case I recommend a dedicated store, not a big-box seller) can take that and align your needs with the best gear for your situation.
cheers, TREVOR
The mark of good photographer is less what they hold in their hand, it's more what they hold in their head;
"All the variety, all the charm, all the beauty of life is made up of light and shadow", Leo Tolstoy;
"Skill in photography is acquired by practice and not by purchase" Percy W. Harris
