Updated Camera Recommendations!
Updated Camera Recommendations
Since my recent switch, I thought I should keep the whole site as consistant as possible (it’s hard with so many moving parts!) and update the camera recommendations in the Reviews section. Below is a list of cameras I recommend that should work for any skill level or budget. In addition, I have a more complete list of Camera Lens Reviews that covers all the lenses I use for my photography.
Good Camera: Sony NEX-3N
Priced at about $499, this Sony mirrorless camera is highly recommended if your budget is keeping you at around the $500 level.
- Check price of the Sony NEX-3N on Amazon
- Check price of the Sony NEX-3N on B&H Photo
This camera will get the job done for you, and it is an ideal entry point if you are just getting started and want to minimize the financial impact. If budget is not a concern, I suggest you jump down to the “Better” or “Best” recommendations. However, if budget is your principle concern, then no worries this Sony is the way to go! One great thing about it is that all the lenses that you get for this camera can also be used when if you decide down the road to upgrade to the Sony NEX-7 below.
Better Camera: Nikon D800
Starting at $2,800 for the camera body. (don’t worry, the BEST camera, strangely, is HALF the price and six times smaller) 🙂
- Check price of the Nikon D800 on Amazon
- Check price of the Nikon D800 on B&H Photo
Even though I recommend the Sony NEX-7 below and use it as my main camera, I understand that we are currently in a transition period where many people like to use bigger, professional DSLRs. I used to have the Nikon D800 as my main camera, and I shot with it for over a year, so it is a system I know very well. If you are going with a big DSLR, this is the right choice! See my full Nikon D800 Review.
Best Camera: Sony NEX-7
Starting around $1,100 which includes an 18-55mm lens.
- Check price of the Sony NEX-7 on Amazon
- Check price of the Sony NEX-7 on B&H Photo
See my full Sony NEX-7 Review. I use this camera. It can be used in almost any photographic situation and is one of the best models available in this class. I use it to take photos of everything, from kids to landscapes to architecture to objects. This tiny 24 megapixel beast has a thousand other features that those clever Japanese crammed inside… see the full Sony NEX-7 Review for more information and sample pho
Daily Photo – The Daytime Lights of Front Gate Street
Here’s a shot from a really great street in Beijing called “Front Gate” — it’s certainly worth a trip. I was lucky that it rained hard all morning and I really got taking photos after it stopped. When the streets are nice and wet and I am personally not getting wet – that is one of the best times!
