Photography is a fascinating art form. The first photographic camera was developed in the early 1800s, thanks to centuries of contributions and developments. Since then, the practice and the technology have evolved in leaps and bounds to the point where everyone carries a camera right in their back pockets.
Photography has played a significant role in the way that we shape and experience the world. And thanks to social media, more and more people are falling in love with the art form. If you’re one of the lucky folk to have been bitten by the photography bug, and you’re looking to buy your first camera, well, you’ve come to the right place.
We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to buying your first camera with Lauren Theunissen, lecturer and exhibition curator of the Orms Cape Town School of Photography.
We understand just how intense purchasing a new camera can be. It’s a significant investment, so you want to make the right decisions.
Where To Start?
According to Lauren Theunissen, “the best place to start is by considering your lifestyle and how your new camera can integrate seamlessly into your life. Some people are on-the-go and need something light and compact. Other image makers enjoy taking the time to set up their shot, changing lenses and prefer handling a larger body. I recommend heading to either Orms Cape Town or Bellville to physically feel the camera body you are considering and get a true sense of its size and weight. Some design choices may look pleasing but could be uncomfortable to hold. Your camera will become an extension of your hand, so best ensure you enjoy holding it.”
Setting A Budget
One of the most significant factors determining which camera you end up with is how much you’re prepared to spend. Photography can be quite an expensive endeavour. There are camera bodies, lenses, filters, tripods, remotes, reflectors, flashguns and more. The price of a brand new camera can range between R10,000 and R100,000. The same goes for lenses and all the other camera gear that will significantly benefit your photographic work.
Most entry-level cameras and gear range between R10,000 and R30,000. This price bracket is broad enough to give you plenty of fantastic entry-level camera options from an assortment of reputable camera brands. Some top brands stocked at Orms include Nikon, Canon, Sony, Leica, Fujifilm, Olympus and more.
Theunissen notes that “being responsible with your photographic gear investment is essential. I’d advise you to invest in gear your budget allows and slowly purchase additional professional gear over time. Build your gear up slowly and with intention rather than spending all your savings in one go on your dream gear list.”
She further advises you to take the time to play with your gear and empower yourself through photography courses to learn your current gear’s limits. You will then know what equipment you actually need rather than buying things you’ll never use.
The Orms Cape Town School of Photography offers incredible photography courses for people looking to delve into the world of photography. You have the option of in-person or online photography courses, lightroom courses, short-term courses and video creation courses.
Some fantastic ways for you to play around with some great gear without breaking the bank is by checking out the Orms Used and Rental gear department. We also offer fantastic camera kits that include user-friendly camera bodies, great lens options, memory cards, and sturdy camera bags.
Which Camera Features To Look Out For
Knowing how you’ll use your new camera will help make your decisions easier. Theunissen notes that beginners looking to try their hand at video should also look for devices with a microphone input and 4K video capabilities.
For creators on the go, cameras with Bluetooth and Wifi connectivity are great for quickly importing, editing and sharing images.
Cameras with flip-out swivel screens make capturing images from obscure angles effortless. These swivel screens will allow you to see the world from angles you’ve never considered before, greatly enhancing your work.
Choosing lenses with bigger apertures like F1.2 – F4 will help you get the shot.
Cameras with fast shutter and processing speeds are also an advantage for photographers looking to get into event and sports photography.
Top Camera Models For Entry-Level Photographers
At Orms, we stock some of the best entry-level photographic gear that money can buy. So whatever your budget or photographic niche, you’ll find the perfect camera to kickstart your journey into photography.
Cameras and Kits Under R10 000
Canon 2000D Starter Kit
Everything you need as a starter camera and more. The Canon 2000D Starter Kit is an easy-to-use and intuitive entry-level camera. It performs excellently in low-light settings and has Wi-Fi & NFC connectivity for media sharing. The camera also has Full HD 1080p video recording for when you want to switch things up. Your starter kit includes an EF-S 18-55mm IS II lens, an SD card and a camera bag. When purchasing the camera, you’ll also receive a free 3-hour camera training to help you get the most out of your camera.
Nikon D3500
The Nikon D3500 will make you fall in love with photography. It’s fast, responsive, and an excellent tool for the photographer just getting started. Your Nikon D3500 also comes with an AF-P DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens to enhance your photographic experience. To set you off on the right foot, Orms offers you a free 3-hour camera training for your new Nikon D3500.
Canon EOS M50 Mark II
Explore your newfound interest with the Canon EOS M50 Mark II mirrorless digital camera. It’s ultra-compact, making it the perfect camera for the photographer on the go. It features a large 24.1 megapixel APS-C CMOS which delivers great image quality. It has built-in Wifi and Bluetooth connectivity. The Canon EOS M50 Mark II also comes with the Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens. With exceptional image quality and wide-angle zoom capabilities, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running.
Cameras Under R20,000
Sony ZVE10
The Sony ZVE10 is an excellent piece of equipment for exploring the world of photography and videography. Its advanced 24.2MP APS-C Exmor CMOS sensor delivers pristine image quality. Its compact, lightweight body means you can create beautiful imagery everywhere you go. With 4K video quality, a bokeh switch and a 3.0″ LCD side flip-out touchscreen, the Sony ZVE10 is an excellent option for vlogging enthusiasts. Your new Sony ZVE10 also comes with a 16-50mm lens.
Nikon Z30
The Nikon Z30 is a lightweight mirrorless camera designed to bring your creativity to life. It features a 20.9MP DX-Format CMOS Sensor and an EXPEED 6 Image Processor for reduced noise and maximised sharpness. The perfect camera for the vlogger at heart, the Z30 offers 4K video recording up to 30 fps; this includes live streaming and an ISO Sensitivity range of up to 25600 when recording. Its vlogger-optimised design and 16-50mm lens give you the freedom to take control of your creativity.
Canon EOS R10
The Canon EOS R10 Mirrorless camera, along with the Canon RF-S 18-45mm lens and Canon EF to R Mount Adapter, is an excellent camera for photographers exploring all kinds of photographic genres. The R10 has an impressive 24.2 MP APS-C CMOS Sensor and DIGIC X Image Processor for intelligent focusing and razor sharpness. Fitted with a Multi-Function Shoe, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, the R10 is a hybrid content creation tool masterfully designed.
Fujifilm X-T30 Mark II
The Fujifilm X-T30 Mark II is an incredible camera for those looking to take photography a little more seriously. Its functional design and intuitive handling make this a great camera to take with you everywhere. The X-T30 Mark II includes a 26.1-megapixel sensor, 30fps burst shooting, 4K video, and more. It’s lightweight, compact, and incredibly powerful.
Cameras Under R30,000
For those with a bigger budget looking for cameras that pack a bigger punch, these are some of the best cameras you can buy for under R30,000:
- Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Digital Camera
- Canon EOS RP Mirrorless Digital Camera
- Nikon Z fc Mirrorless Camera
- Fujifilm X-S10 Mirrorless Digital Camera
Lenses
People often underestimate the importance of a quality lens. They’re capable of making or breaking the photographic work you create. Photographers frequently upgrade and add to their lens collection more than they do to their camera bodies. These are some lenses vital to every photographer starting out: Sigma 16-28mm for video and landscape photography, Sigma 150-600mm for sport and wildlife photography, Sony 24mm for video and stills, and the Canon 50mm f/1.8 for multiple genres.
If you’re still unable to make up your mind, why not pop by the Orms Cape Town or Bellville stores, and our sales team can help you with all your photographic decisions.
