Camera recos for an amateur

[liliin]

Hii everyone,

I was wondering what camera I should buy. I’m amateur. I started to shoot like 4 months ago so I kinda know the basics know; I have the canon power shot sx20 is so it’s very limited for me now. I’d like something versatile because I like to shoot a lot of things, but especially things around NYC. I don’t have a high budget, so max is like 800$. I’d also like it to do well under low-light. Please tell other things I should consider and which would be better for me.

[shadowsports]

Greetings,

Thanks for supplying a budget and one important requirement.  One other question.  Do you shoot mostly stills or is video also something you might like to have?

The SX20 is certainly limited by today's standards and can be outperformed by any modern smart phone.  Having used a fixed lens camera for while, it sounds like you might be ready for a camera that allows you to change lenses.  This makes sense from a versatility standpoint giving you both focal length and lenses with better low light performance (aperture) options.  There is no one lens that will do everything or be perfect for every shooting situation.  However, some prefer a fixed lens and do not care for additional options.  You'll have to tell us if this is important to you? 

The newest powershot is the Canon V1.  This is a 22MP (still photos) and 4k video capable fixed lens camera with zoom.  This camera takes great photos, but has high emphasis on video as well.  It's slightly above your budget at $929.

Canon also makes an R50 and R50v body that both accept RF and RF-S lenses natively.  You can also use their EF and EF-S lenses adapted.

The R50 and R50v start at $699 and $709 new.  (Body only).  Both are 24MP.  The R50 is geared towards still photography.  It has a slightly larger grip which some like.  The R50v is a video centric camera.  It's a little more compact and has a a slightly smaller grip.  Both cameras have the same photographic capabilities, but the v has some enhanced video features the R50 lacks.  Both could use the same lenses, so plenty of options.  

Opinions vary.  I would not recommend investing in a DSLR as mirrorless is the current standard and future.  You'll get a higher return on investment and greater longevity going with mirrorless.  I also recommend that you not consider the R100 which is Canon's lowest mirrorless offering.  While it does offer interchangeable lens options, the performance between it and the R50 series and above is substantial.  

The rub.  Lenses with a faster aperture (better low light performance) cost a bit more money.  So, you may not be able to get it all upfront and may start with a body and lens that performs well in many situations, but may need to spend a bit more on a second lens that gives higher low light performance.  This is not to say you can't do well out of the gate, but I think I'd spend some time learning a new camera and making decisions once you had some more experience "behind the camera" under your belt.  

With all that said, Canon also has great refurbished gear options that allows you to stretch your money and little bit.  Refurbished products come with the same 1 yr warranty as new gear.  Availability varies and products go in and out of stock frequently.   

So start by visiting Canon USA and see what features appeal to you at or near your budget.  I'm sure you'll have some questions too which anyone here will be happy to help answer.  

The most important thing is to do is research.  This will help you make a good decision that can meet your needs today and in the future.

[shadowsports]

R50v + lens is on sale through 8/31.

https://community.usa.canon.com/t5/Gear-Guide/R50v-RF-S-14-30mm-f4-6-3-IS-STM-PZ-On-Sale-Through-8-3...

[JeffXB]

Pardon my ignorance, but what about a used camera with a low shutter count from a reputable camera shop? B+H comes to mind and the OP lives in (or visits) NYC as he said that’s where he will be primarily using it. He could go directly to their shop. 

[shadowsports]

Greetings,

The used department at B&H is absolutely reputable.  He could absolutely do that.  If I lived in New York, I'd probably own part stake in their company by now 🤣.  

He's at the beginning of the research and exploratory phase.  This is why I said opinions will vary.  There are many options.  All too often we see people make hasty decisions.  3 months go by and they say, "oh why did I do that?"

Research is probably the number one thing people neglect to do when starting out.  As long as he takes his time, does some research and asks questions, he'll get a good start.