Best small digital camera for beginners

0
Top Rated
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II Camera
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Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II Camera
Must-Have
Sony Cyber-Shot RX100 V with EVF
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Sony Cyber-Shot RX100 V with EVF
Hot Pick
Nikon Coolpix B500 Digital Camera
Amazon.com
Nikon Coolpix B500 Digital Camera
Must-Have
Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens
Amazon.com
Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens

The Best Small Digital Camera for Beginners

If you are new to the world of photography, finding the perfect digital camera can be overwhelming. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s why I am here to help! In this article, I will guide you through the process of choosing the best small digital camera for beginners, so you can capture stunning photos right from the start.

When it comes to choosing a digital camera, size matters. As a beginner, you want a camera that is compact and portable, so you can easily take it with you wherever you go. The best small digital camera for beginners should fit comfortably in your hand and be lightweight enough to carry around all day. This will allow you to capture spontaneous moments and explore your creativity without feeling weighed down.

Trending Now
Autofocus 4K Vlogging Camera for Everyone
Compact design with exceptional 4K video capabilities
This versatile digital camera delivers stunning 4K video and 48MP photos, perfect for capturing cherished moments. With an impressive 16X zoom and image stabilization, it's ideal for both travel and everyday use.
Amazon price updated: June 26, 2025 6:21 am

Another important factor to consider is ease of use. As a beginner, you want a camera that is user-friendly and doesn’t require a steep learning curve. Look for a camera with intuitive controls and a simple menu system. This will allow you to quickly learn the basics of photography and start capturing amazing images right away. Additionally, consider a camera with built-in tutorials or guides that can help you learn new techniques and improve your skills as you go.

5 Best Small Digital Cameras for Beginners in 2021

As someone who is just starting out in the world of photography, finding the right camera can be a daunting task. There are so many options available, each with their own features and capabilities. To help make your decision easier, I have compiled a list of the 5 best small digital cameras for beginners in 2021.

1. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III: This camera offers excellent image quality with its 20.1 megapixel sensor and powerful DIGIC 8 image processor. It also has a compact size and easy-to-use interface, making it perfect for beginners. The G7 X Mark III also has 4K video recording capabilities and built-in Wi-Fi for easy sharing and remote control.

2. Sony Alpha a6000: The a6000 is a mirrorless camera that packs a lot of features into its small body. It has a 24.3 megapixel APS-C sensor, fast autofocus, and high-speed continuous shooting. The camera also has built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for easy sharing and remote control, and its compact size makes it great for travel.

  • 3. Nikon D3500: The D3500 is a DSLR camera that offers excellent image quality and user-friendly features. It has a 24.2 megapixel APS-C sensor, 11-point autofocus system, and high-speed continuous shooting. The camera also has built-in Bluetooth for easy sharing and remote control, and its compact size and comfortable grip make it ideal for beginners.
  • 4. Fujifilm X-T200: This mirrorless camera combines excellent image quality with ease of use. It has a 24.2 megapixel APS-C sensor and fast autofocus system. The X-T200 also has 4K video recording capabilities, built-in Wi-Fi, and a large tilting touchscreen for easy framing and reviewing of shots.
  • 5. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III: The E-M10 Mark III is a compact mirrorless camera with a 16.1 megapixel micro four-thirds sensor. It offers excellent image quality, built-in image stabilization, and fast autofocus. The camera also has built-in Wi-Fi for easy sharing and remote control, and its small size and retro design make it a stylish choice for beginners.

When choosing a camera, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prefer a DSLR or a mirrorless camera, these options provide excellent image quality and user-friendly features that will help you capture stunning photos from the very beginning of your photography journey.

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II: The Perfect Compact Camera for Beginners

As a beginner in photography, finding the perfect camera can be a daunting task. With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. However, the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II is an excellent choice for those who are new to photography and looking for a compact camera that delivers exceptional image quality and user-friendly features.

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II is designed with beginners in mind. It features a 20.2-megapixel sensor and a powerful Digic 7 image processor, which together produce stunning photos with vibrant colors and sharp details. The camera also has a versatile 4.2x optical zoom lens, allowing beginners to capture a wide range of subjects, from landscapes to portraits.

Top Rated
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II Camera
Outstanding quality with advanced video capabilities
Capture breathtaking photos and videos with the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II, featuring a large CMOS sensor for exceptional image quality. Ideal for travel and social media thanks to its built-in WiFi.
Amazon price updated: June 26, 2025 6:21 am

The G7 X Mark II is equipped with a variety of shooting modes and auto settings, making it easy for beginners to achieve professional-looking results without needing advanced technical knowledge. The camera also has a built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, which allows for easy sharing and transferring of photos to smartphones, tablets, or computers.

One of the standout features of the G7 X Mark II is its tilting touchscreen LCD, which can be flipped up 180 degrees for capturing high-quality selfies or vlogs. The camera also has an intelligent optical image stabilization system, which helps reduce camera shake and ensure steady shots, even in low light conditions.

In conclusion, the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II is the perfect compact camera for beginners who are looking for a camera that offers exceptional image quality, user-friendly features, and versatility. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around, allowing beginners to capture stunning photos wherever they go. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced photographer looking for a compact camera, the G7 X Mark II is definitely worth considering.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100: A Premium Option for Budding Photographers

As a budding photographer, I understand the importance of having a high-quality camera that can capture stunning images. That’s why I chose the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 as my go-to choice for a small digital camera. With its premium features and compact design, it’s the perfect option for beginners who want to take their photography to the next level.

One of the standout features of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 is its large 1-inch sensor, which allows for incredible image quality even in low-light conditions. Its 20.2-megapixel resolution ensures that every detail is captured with stunning clarity, making it ideal for capturing everything from landscapes to portraits. The camera also offers a wide range of aperture settings, allowing for creative control over depth of field and bokeh effects.

Must-Have
Sony Cyber-Shot RX100 V with EVF
World's fastest autofocus for action shots
Featuring a 20.1MP sensor and retractable electronic viewfinder, the RX100 V excels in speed and image quality, making it perfect for vlogging and high-speed photography.
Amazon price updated: June 26, 2025 6:21 am

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 also excels in terms of its usability and versatility. It features a 3-inch LCD display that can tilt up to 180 degrees, making it easy to compose shots from various angles. The camera also offers a range of shooting modes, including manual mode for those who want full control over their settings, as well as automatic modes for beginners who prefer to let the camera do the work.

Additionally, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 boasts impressive video capabilities, with the ability to capture full HD 1080p video at 60 frames per second. It also has built-in Wi-Fi, allowing for easy sharing and transferring of photos and videos to your smartphone or computer. Overall, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 is a premium option that provides excellent image quality, usability, and versatility, making it an ideal choice for budding photographers.

Nikon COOLPIX B500: A Budget-Friendly Bridge Camera for Beginners

As a beginner in photography, finding the right camera can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s important to consider both budget and functionality. The Nikon COOLPIX B500 is a great option for beginners who are looking for a budget-friendly bridge camera.

Hot Pick
Nikon Coolpix B500 Digital Camera
40x optical zoom for distant shooting
The Nikon Coolpix B500 offers impressive zoom versatility and full HD video recording, making it an excellent choice for both photography enthusiasts and casual users.
Amazon price updated: June 26, 2025 6:21 am

One of the best features of the COOLPIX B500 is its impressive zoom range. With a 40x optical zoom lens, this camera allows beginners to capture detailed shots from a distance, making it perfect for wildlife photography or capturing the beauty of a landscape. The lens also has image stabilization, which helps to reduce blur caused by camera shake.

The COOLPIX B500 also offers a variety of shooting modes and settings to cater to different photography needs. With easy-to-use controls and a user-friendly interface, beginners can explore their creativity and experiment with different settings, such as manual mode, aperture priority, and shutter priority. The camera also has a range of creative modes and filters, allowing users to add artistic effects to their photos.

In addition to its shooting capabilities, the COOLPIX B500 also offers a range of other useful features. It has built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, allowing users to easily transfer their photos to a smartphone or tablet for instant sharing. The camera also has a tilting LCD display, which makes it easier to capture shots from difficult angles or take selfies.

Overall, the Nikon COOLPIX B500 is an excellent choice for beginners who want a budget-friendly camera without compromising on features. With its impressive zoom range, variety of shooting modes, and convenient features, it’s a versatile camera that allows beginners to capture stunning photos and explore their passion for photography.

Fujifilm X-A7: A Mirrorless Camera Ideal for Learning the Ropes

As a beginner photographer, I was on the lookout for a small and lightweight camera that would accommodate my learning needs. After much research, I came across the Fujifilm X-A7, a mirrorless camera that proved to be the perfect companion for someone like me.

One of the standout features of the Fujifilm X-A7 is its compact size and lightweight design, making it incredibly easy to carry around and handle. This makes it an ideal camera for beginners like me who are still learning the ropes and may not be accustomed to carrying heavy equipment.

The Fujifilm X-A7 also boasts an impressive 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor, which delivers high-quality images with excellent detail and clarity. As a beginner, this sensor allowed me to capture professional-looking photos without being overwhelmed by complicated settings. The camera’s autofocus system is also noteworthy, providing fast and accurate focusing, making it easier for me to capture moments on the go.

Additionally, the Fujifilm X-A7 features a tilting touchscreen that makes framing and shooting from various angles a breeze. This touchscreen interface is intuitive and user-friendly, allowing me to navigate through the camera settings and menus effortlessly.

Another advantage of the Fujifilm X-A7 is its wide range of built-in creative filters and film simulations, which enabled me to experiment with different artistic styles and enhance the overall look of my photos. These features have been incredibly fun to explore as a beginner, offering me endless opportunities for creativity and self-expression.

In conclusion, the Fujifilm X-A7 is an exceptional mirrorless camera for beginners looking to learn the ropes of photography. Its compact size, high-quality sensor, fast autofocus, and user-friendly interface make it a versatile and reliable tool for capturing stunning images. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your photography skills to the next level, the Fujifilm X-A7 is definitely worth considering.

Panasonic Lumix ZS100: A Versatile Travel Camera for Beginners

As a beginner in photography, I am always on the lookout for a camera that is easy to use, yet can produce high-quality images. I recently came across the Panasonic Lumix ZS100, and it has proven to be the perfect camera for both my travel adventures and my learning journey in photography.

The Panasonic Lumix ZS100 offers a wide range of features and settings that allow me to experiment and grow my skills as a photographer. Its compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for travel, so I can bring it with me wherever I go without adding much weight to my backpack.

This camera boasts a powerful 1-inch sensor which enables it to capture stunningly sharp and detailed images, even in low light conditions. The 10x optical zoom lens provides the versatility to capture both wide-angle landscapes and close-up shots of distant subjects, without sacrificing image quality.

I also appreciate the intuitive controls and user-friendly interface of the Lumix ZS100. With a few simple adjustments, I can easily change settings such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO to achieve the desired effects in my photos. The touchscreen display adds an extra level of convenience, allowing me to quickly navigate through menus and review my images with ease.

Additionally, the Lumix ZS100 offers 4K video recording capabilities, allowing me to capture not only stunning photos but also high-resolution videos of my travel experiences. It also has built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling me to transfer my images wirelessly to my smartphone or tablet for easy sharing on social media.

In conclusion, the Panasonic Lumix ZS100 is a versatile travel camera that is perfect for beginners like me. Its compact size, impressive image quality, and user-friendly features make it an excellent choice for capturing beautiful memories during my travels while allowing me to learn and experiment with different photography techniques.

What to Consider When Choosing a Small Digital Camera for Beginners

As a beginner in photography, finding the right digital camera can be overwhelming. With so many options available, it is important to consider several factors before making a decision. Here are some key things to think about when choosing a small digital camera for beginners:

1. Megapixels and Image Quality

The resolution of a camera is determined by its megapixel count. While higher megapixels can result in sharper images, it’s important to strike a balance between megapixels and image quality. A camera with a moderate megapixel count can still produce excellent images, especially for beginners who may not need ultra-high resolution for their photos.

2. Size and Portability

One of the main advantages of a small digital camera is its portability. Consider the size and weight of the camera, as well as its overall design and ergonomics. A compact and lightweight camera is ideal for beginners who want to carry their camera with them wherever they go, making it easier to capture spontaneous moments.

3. Ease of Use and User-Friendly Features

As a beginner, you’ll want a camera that is easy to use and has user-friendly features. Look for a camera with intuitive menus, easy-to-access buttons, and helpful guides or tutorials. Features such as automatic scene modes and image stabilization can also be beneficial for beginners, as they help to capture better photos without much technical knowledge required.

4. Price and Budget

Set a budget and stick to it when choosing a small digital camera. Consider the features and capabilities that are important to you as a beginner, and find a camera that fits within your price range. It’s worth noting that more expensive cameras may offer additional features and better image quality, but a beginner doesn’t necessarily need a top-of-the-line camera to get started and learn the basics.

5. Support and Accessories

Finally, consider the support and accessories available for the camera you are considering. Check if the manufacturer offers a warranty and if there are easily available accessories such as lenses, memory cards, and camera bags. Having access to support and a wide range of accessories can enhance your photography experience as a beginner.

Must-Have
Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens
Perfect lens for portraits and low light
The Canon EF 50mm lens is ideal for capturing beautiful portraits and sharp images in low light, featuring a fast f/1.8 aperture for stunning background blur.
Amazon price updated: June 26, 2025 6:21 am

By considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and choose the best small digital camera for beginners that suits your needs and preferences. Remember, the most important thing is to have a camera that you feel comfortable with and enjoy using as you start your photography journey.

Key Features to Look for in a Small Digital Camera for Beginners

When searching for the perfect small digital camera for beginners, there are a few key features that you should consider. As someone who is just starting out in photography, it is important to choose a camera that is easy to use and has features that will help you learn and improve your skills.

One key feature to look for in a small digital camera for beginners is a user-friendly interface. The camera should have simple controls and menus that are easy to navigate. This will allow you to quickly adjust settings and capture great photos without feeling overwhelmed or confused. Look for a camera that has a clear and intuitive layout, with buttons and icons that are easy to understand.

  • Compact size: A small digital camera is ideal for beginners as it is lightweight and easy to carry around, making it perfect for everyday use.
  • Image stabilization: This feature helps to reduce blur caused by camera shake, allowing you to capture crisp and clear photos.
  • Automatic shooting modes: Look for a camera that offers various automatic modes, such as portrait, landscape, and sports, which will help you get the best shot in different situations without the need for manual adjustments.
  • Manual controls: While automatic modes are great for beginners, having the option to manually adjust settings such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO will allow you to have more creative control over your photos as you gain experience.
  • Built-in flash: A built-in flash can be useful in low-light situations, helping you to get well-exposed photos even in challenging lighting conditions.
  • Digital zoom: Look for a camera that offers a decent digital zoom capability, allowing you to get closer to your subjects without sacrificing image quality.

Tips and Tricks for Getting the Most Out of Your Small Digital Camera

Now that you have your small digital camera, it’s time to learn how to get the most out of it. These tips and tricks will help you take better photos and unlock the full potential of your camera.

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Camera Settings

Take some time to explore and understand the various settings on your camera. This will give you greater control over your photos and allow you to experiment with different effects. Play around with settings such as aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and white balance to see how they impact your photos.

2. Experiment with Composition Techniques

Composition is essential for creating interesting and visually appealing photos. Try applying the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing techniques to add depth and visual interest to your shots. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try new angles and perspectives.

3. Use Natural Lighting Whenever Possible

Natural lighting can greatly enhance your photos, so always try to shoot in well-lit environments. Avoid using the camera’s built-in flash whenever possible, as it can create harsh and unflattering lighting. If you need to shoot in low light conditions, consider using a tripod to stabilize your camera and prevent blurry photos.

4. Practice with Different Shooting Modes

Most small digital cameras come with different shooting modes, such as portrait, landscape, and night mode. Experiment with these modes to see how they affect your photos and to find the ones that work best for different scenarios.

5. Don’t Forget to Edit and Enhance

Just because you’re using a small digital camera doesn’t mean you can’t enhance your photos afterwards. Use photo editing software or apps to adjust brightness, contrast, and colors. You can also crop your images and apply filters to give them a unique look.

By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to make the most of your small digital camera and capture stunning photos. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment and learn from your mistakes. Happy shooting!

Best small digital camera for beginners

Trending Now

Autofocus 4K Vlogging Camera for Everyone

Compact design with exceptional 4K video capabilities
$64.99
PRIMEPRIME
Amazon.com
Amazon price updated: June 26, 2025 6:21 am

Features

Part Number DC402-AF
Model DC402
Color White
Size Compact
This versatile digital camera delivers stunning 4K video and 48MP photos, perfect for capturing cherished moments. With an impressive 16X zoom and image stabilization, it's ideal for both travel and everyday use.






Top Rated

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II Camera

Outstanding quality with advanced video capabilities
$1,379.00
Amazon.com
Amazon price updated: June 26, 2025 6:21 am

Features

Part Number 1066C002AA
Model 1066C002
Color Black
Language English
Capture breathtaking photos and videos with the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II, featuring a large CMOS sensor for exceptional image quality. Ideal for travel and social media thanks to its built-in WiFi.






Must-Have

Sony Cyber-Shot RX100 V with EVF

World's fastest autofocus for action shots
$1,166.00
Amazon.com
Amazon price updated: June 26, 2025 6:21 am

Features

Part Number DSC-RX100M5
Model DSC-RX100M5
Warranty
Color Black
Release Date 2016-10-28T00:00:01Z
Size 100
Featuring a 20.1MP sensor and retractable electronic viewfinder, the RX100 V excels in speed and image quality, making it perfect for vlogging and high-speed photography.



Price history for Sony Cyber-Shot RX100 V with EVF
Latest updates:
  • $1,275.49 - May 22, 2025
  • $1,179.95 - May 19, 2025
  • $1,275.49 - May 18, 2025
  • $1,229.95 - May 16, 2025
  • $1,275.49 - May 3, 2025
  • $1,229.95 - May 1, 2025
  • $1,179.95 - April 29, 2025
Since: December 16, 2024
Created with Raphaël 2.3.00 USD500 USD1,000 USD1,500 USD2,000 USD2025-052025-03
2025-05-22
Price: 1,275.49 USD
  • Highest Price: $1,275.49 - May 3, 2025
  • Lowest Price: $1,019.88 - March 7, 2025




Hot Pick

Nikon Coolpix B500 Digital Camera

40x optical zoom for distant shooting
$208.00
PRIMEPRIME
Amazon.com
Amazon price updated: June 26, 2025 6:21 am

Features

Part Number 26506
Model 26506
Warranty 1
Color Black
Is Adult Product
Release Date 2016-05-10T00:00:01Z
The Nikon Coolpix B500 offers impressive zoom versatility and full HD video recording, making it an excellent choice for both photography enthusiasts and casual users.



Price history for Nikon Coolpix B500 Digital Camera
Latest updates:
  • $799.00 - June 6, 2025
  • $189.98 - June 6, 2025
  • $799.00 - May 29, 2025
  • $196.00 - May 29, 2025
  • $186.00 - May 29, 2025
  • $799.00 - May 29, 2025
  • $189.98 - May 29, 2025
Since: December 9, 2024
Created with Raphaël 2.3.00 USD200 USD400 USD600 USD800 USD2025-062025-042025-02
2025-06-06
Price: 799 USD
  • Highest Price: $799.00 - May 13, 2025
  • Lowest Price: $159.99 - January 22, 2025




Must-Have

Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens

Perfect lens for portraits and low light
$125.99 $135.99
PRIMEPRIME
Amazon.com
Amazon price updated: June 26, 2025 6:21 am

Features

Part Number 0570C002
Model 0570C005AA
Warranty 1 year coverage for parts
Color Black
Is Adult Product
Release Date 2015-05-21T00:00:01Z
Size Lens Only
Language English
Publication Date 2019-06-17T00:00:01Z
The Canon EF 50mm lens is ideal for capturing beautiful portraits and sharp images in low light, featuring a fast f/1.8 aperture for stunning background blur.



Price history for Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens
Latest updates:
  • $125.00 - May 23, 2025
  • $119.00 - May 22, 2025
  • $125.00 - May 22, 2025
  • $119.00 - May 22, 2025
  • $125.00 - March 31, 2025
  • $119.00 - March 30, 2025
  • $125.00 - March 28, 2025
Since: January 30, 2025
Created with Raphaël 2.3.00 USD50 USD100 USD150 USD200 USD2025-052025-03
2025-05-23
Price: 125 USD
  • Highest Price: $125.00 - January 30, 2025
  • Lowest Price: $119.00 - March 2, 2025























Question and answers:

What is the best small digital camera for beginners?

The best small digital camera for beginners is the Sony A6000. It has a compact size, excellent image quality, and easy-to-use features that make it perfect for those just starting out in photography.

Is the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II a good camera for beginners?

Yes, the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II is a great camera for beginners. It has a compact size, a user-friendly interface, and advanced features that can help beginners improve their photography skills.

What is the price range of small digital cameras for beginners?

The price range of small digital cameras for beginners varies, but generally, you can find a good camera for around $300 to $500. Some higher-end models may cost up to $1000 or more, depending on their features and specifications.

Carmen J. Moore
Carmen J. Moore

Carmen J. Moore is an expert in the field of photography and videography, blending a passion for art with technical expertise. With over a decade of experience in the industry, she is recognized as a sought-after photographer and videographer capable of capturing moments and crafting unique visual narratives.

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