How to choose a camera for high quality photos? Best compact cameras for beginners

It would seem that the choice is huge, but how not to get lost among this variety and choose an option worthy of attention? Let's consider further.

Features of choice: what to look for

The most rational way out of the situation will be to use the knowledge of people who already have practical experience. The article will consider the best representatives of the market, while using the competent opinions of expert practitioners.

Minimum parameters

For a good modern camera, a number of minimum characteristics have been created:

• Resolution - >= 10 MP;
• Matrix - >= 2/3'';
• ISO setting - >= 100;
• Focus - 24 * 85;
• Zoom more than 3x.

Advice!Of course, these figures play only a relative role: 20 megapixels in the case of a small matrix will lead to a worse result than 10 megapixels with a large matrix. Depending on the indicator of sensitivity to light, the image quality of the image will depend on how skillful the master uses the device.

How to start buying a camera

Buying a conventional device

The first thing you should pay attention to is the purpose of acquiring and using a camera. Special purpose may be different, and this must be taken into account, since a universal model (for everything and at once) does not actually exist.

Advice! To treat yourself and friends to a photo shoot during a picnic from time to time, it is not necessary to bring an expensive professional-level mirror device with you, just take an ordinary soap dish or a high-quality smartphone with a good camera.

Professional cameras

If there are goals and objectives of a professional nature, then the requirements for equipment are slightly higher and depend on the genre in which the shooting is carried out.

• To shoot a short report, take a few photos, you need to take a more expensive device with high performance;
• If you plan to shoot a landscape, it is important to choose the maximum clarity and color depth settings;
• For portrait shooting, it is worthwhile to ensure high-quality reproduction of skin color and good blur in the background;
• For macro photography, the ability to focus on an object that is close is important.

Of course, each of the possibilities cannot be implemented in one camera, designed to solve only certain tasks.

Classification of digital cameras

The main criteria by which an objective assessment of the quality and performance of equipment is carried out is the physical size of the matrix. Traditionally, its measurement is carried out in mm or inches, it is due to this parameter that the quality parameters of the photo are affected:

• color rendering features;
• noise level indicator;
• dynamic range.

Good qualities are demonstrated by the technique in the process of shooting, even in the case of low lighting. Based on the dimensional parameter of the matrix, cameras are divided into classes.

Amateur models for beginners

This category includes most digital point-and-shoot cameras that cost up to 15,000 rubles. According to all the characteristics, the "insides" of these elements of technology can be compared with each other, "on paper" they always look impressive. A significant drawback of these devices is the insufficient physical size of the matrix, equal to 1/2 ''. If we add a high resolution to this parameter, then in general the technique can be considered equipped with a number of disadvantages.

• Lower ISO sensitivity;
• degraded image quality in low light;
• the occurrence of digital noise;
• noticeable deterioration in sharpness and color reproduction;
• narrow scope of the obtained images;
• lack of background blur option;
• "flat" view of the picture without the possibility of transferring volume.

Despite the complex of shortcomings, the "soap box" can become good option in the absence of creative tasks in front of you and the presence of a minimum goal. The model is inexpensive, and for better quality, you should give preference to a model equipped with an increased magnification.

Professional models for photographers

Even non-professionals prefer expensive mirror devices to soap dishes. It is impossible to find such models cheaper than 20,000 rubles. But their advantages over the previous class are obvious.

• A large number of options, including background blur;
• decent image quality;
• large matrix size;
• excellent color reproduction;
• increased sensitivity.

Let's consider several good models among representatives of each class in order to understand the range of the market and be able to navigate it.

The best cameras: rating of 10 models

All the models under consideration will “rise” on the price tag – from the cheapest options to more expensive models.

Canon Digital IXUS 160

The model is one of the most budgetary on the market, in connection with this it has gained immense popularity.

Characteristics:

• Matrix - 20.5 MP;
• Physical size - 1/2 .3'';
• ZOOM - 8 times;
• ISO setting - 100-1600;
• Automation is present.

After pressing the power button, the shutter is released quickly. The camera will be the best solution for novice users. The average cost of a product is 10-14 thousand rubles.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W830

The matrix size is 20.5 megapixels. The device has a lens with a long focus distance ZOOM 8. Auto focus often has misses, which significantly spoils the overall picture, but due to the entry level of this camera, such shortcomings can be forgiven. The cost of the model is about 12,000 rubles.

Nikon Cool pix L430

This camera is the most affordable of the super zooms. It features a 28x zoom and a decent focal length. Despite such indicators, there are problems in use, since the matrix with the rest of the characteristics will not easily cope. The price category is attractive to the average buyer: to become the owner Nikon models Cool pix L430, have to pay 12-14 thousand rubles.

It's important to know! By the way, the Canon Power Shot SX410 IS device fell into a similar price category, which shares an honorable third place with the model in question. Both options are ideal for daytime shooting.

Sony Cyber ​​Shot DSC-H300

The model has a 35x zoom and good performance speed for the category in question. Takes 8 frames in one second. The maximum ISO declared by the manufacturer is 3200, which does not allow you to take a decent picture, but at ISO400 the image is very impressive. The model is more expensive than its predecessors, the price is 17-18 thousand rubles.

Nikon Cool pix P610

This is a premium camera with decent image quality. The peculiarity of the model is that with a standard matrix size - 2/3 '', the developers were able to limit themselves to a resolution of 16 megapixels, which made it possible to make a significant increase of 60 times. The functionality of the device is at a high level, the set of options impresses the average user.

• Possibility of manual settings;
• Internet connection via WI-FI;
• increased high-speed shooting mode - 7 frames per second;
• automatic focusing on objects;
• other "chips" characteristic of expensive equipment.

The cost is from 25 thousand rubles, but the quality of shooting and advanced functionality of the model will definitely appeal to you.

Canon Power Shot SX60

This model belongs to an even higher price category, but still deserves special attention and respect. An ambiguous decision was the use of a 65x zoom with a small matrix size, but the presence of a high-quality stabilizer copes with the solution of the situation. You can highlight a small indicator of the range of focus distance and the possibility of shooting video in HDR mode. The cost of the camera is 23,000 rubles.

Olympus Tough TG-850HS

The following models have an average price category, you can find exceptions to the rule in the form of budget options, for example, sophisticated Olympus camera Tough TG-850HS. The rugged camera, equipped with a swivel screen and Full HD video capture, allows users to enjoy high quality images. For such a price, ranging from 15 000 rubles, more advanced models are not offered on the domestic market. The technique is best option for work in especially extreme conditions.

Olympus Tough TG-4

Despite the common manufacturer, compared to the previous model, this option is identical, but it costs much more - about 27 000 rubles. The camera is equipped with extensive functionality, among additional options there are a few highlights to highlight.

• The optimal aperture ratio is F2.0;
• possibility quick turn on and focus;
• maintaining RAW mode;
• the ability to connect to the Internet;
• white balancing in manual mode;
• high video format - HDR;
• other useful and relevant features.

The model is ideal for any conditions, including for use by the whole family.

Sony Cyber ​​Shot DSC-TX30

The model is interesting for its price category, has an ultra-thin body (1.5 cm) and is suitable for use under water. The camera was built using a CMOS-sized sensor, and with a resolution of 18.9 megapixels, an optimal result is obtained, in particular, under water. In addition, the model is equipped with high aperture ratios and a good range of focus distances. The picture can be shot in Full HD mode, which makes the model preferred by many users. You will have to pay for this device 25 000 rubles.

Fujifilm X100T

The sensor of this model is called X-trans, the resolution is 16.3 megapixels, there are a number of additional options.

• Primary color filter;
• auto focus sensors;
• high level of focus;
• decent color reproduction;
• fixed focus distance 35 mm;
• electronic rangefinder;
• affordable price - 28 000 rubles;
• abundance of control systems.

All models have their own characteristics. Knowing by what parameters and how to choose a camera, you will not get lost in the variety offered and will be able to buy a truly useful product.

Best compact cameras 2018: video

When choosing an inexpensive camera within $ 100, do not count on great shooting opportunities. But if you make the right choice, you can get a very decent model for photography.

The main advantages of such cameras are compactness and enough automatic modes to shoot in different conditions. We have selected the best camera models for $ 100, which will fully satisfy the needs of an undemanding user.

Sony DSC-W810

Let's start the review with Sony, which produces excellent electronics and cameras as well. The Sony DSC-W810 is designed for everyone and features high quality, fully automatic shooting. Just press the shutter and wherever you are: a party, the sea, nature, the city - the photos are excellent. Sensor resolution - 20.1 megapixels, matrix type - Super HAD CCD.

Fast autofocus and SteadyShot Image Stabilization (EIS) capture great shots even when capturing fast moving subjects or hand-held vibrations. Night mode comes in handy at parties and works quite well. Real Sony DSC-W810 reviews praise the latter mode.

Next, we should note good zoom parameters - optical 6x and 48x digital. This is not to say that the picture is perfect at maximum approximation, but with good lighting and leisurely shooting, you can get quite creative shots. You can view the footage on a 2.7-inch screen (230400 dots).

The sensitivity level is 100-3200 ISO, there are three exposure metering modes: multi-zone, center-weighted, spot, as well as panoramic shooting with the Sweep Panorama 360 function. Like all modern cameras, this model records video (HD resolution). In addition, there is a face recognition option and burst shooting at 0.52 frames per second (up to 100 photos).

Nikon Coolpix A100

Very stylish, compact camera with good shooting capabilities in automatic mode. It is easy to put in the back pocket of your jeans or handbag. For girls, you can choose red or purple body colors. The resolution of the camera is 20.1 megapixels on a CCD-matrix.

NIKKOR lens with 5x optical zoom and expandable to 10x with Dynamic Fine Zoom. You can take high-quality photos of objects close-up. The automatic “Scene Auto Selector” function will automatically select the optimal mode for the conditions in which you are.

There are also functions for panoramic shooting and motion blur reduction. The latter corrects camera shake and makes shots better and clearer even when the subject is moving quickly.

Using special effects and filters, you can take creative photos: soft filter, nostalgic sepia, selective color, fisheye, miniature effect, painting and others. Accurate autofocus will automatically select the desired object and quickly focus on it (up to 99 zones). This is facilitated by the intellectual component.

The sensitivity level is 80-1600 ISO, there is a 2.7-inch display (230,000 points) and macro photography from 10 cm. This Nikon camera for $ 100 is very good. It has a lot of automatic settings and a pleasant appearance.

Canon IXUS 185

The next camera for $100 is the Canon IXUS 185. Like the rest, this model has a compact size and many automatic shooting modes. A special feature is 8x optical zoom along with 16x digital zoom (ZoomPlus function). By experimenting with the capabilities of the camera, you can easily create quite creative shots.

The resolution of the CCD-matrix is ​​20 effective megapixels. With Easy Auto mode, you don't have to worry about quality taken photos, he will select the optimal parameters to create the best result. Just point the lens at the subject and focus on it.

The built-in next-generation DIGIC 4 processor processes and enhances images. Sensitivity level - from 100 to 1600 ISO. Lens aperture within f / 3.2 - f / 6.9. BUT focal length 5.0 - 40.0mm, equivalent to the 35mm film range.

Autofocus AiAF (up to 9 points) with face detection with modes: single, continuous, tracking, auto exposure. Autofocus works quickly and accurately. Canon has always been famous for its very good cameras with fully automatic shooting.

There is also a Smart Auto mode that includes 32 recognizable scenes. The 2.7-inch screen (230,000 dots) allows you to view the footage. There is continuous shooting - 0.8 frames per second. This Canon camera for $ 100 fully justifies its price even more.

Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FT30EE

This camera doesn't exactly fall into the category of $100 cameras, but we decided to include it in the review anyway. Moreover, the price is not far from this mark. You can find and buy a model within $120-150. Cameras from a Japanese manufacturer have never been cheap. We were attracted by the good security of the camera, which allows you to use the LUMIX DMC-FT30EE in extreme conditions.

The camera withstands immersion under water up to 8 meters, accidental drops and shocks, and is also completely protected from dust and temperature extremes from minus 10 to plus 50 degrees Celsius. What's more, the camera is equipped with OIS optical image stabilization, which captures handshake up to 4000 times per second, ensuring excellent clarity in a wide range of conditions.

The rest of the camera received a resolution of the CCD-sensor - 16 megapixels and an aperture of the lens F3.9 - 5.7, which allows you to take a lot of light, while providing high quality pictures. 4x optical zoom with a focal length of 4.5 - 18.0mm (35mm equivalent). There is also an intelligent (digital) zoom of 8x with a high quality LUMIX DC VARIO lens.

The camera received good autofocus with 5 cm macro capability, face detection and spot focusing up to 23 points. Sensitivity level - from 100 to 1600 ISO. There is a 2.7-inch display (230,000 dots). An excellent model for young people leading an active lifestyle. Automatic functions allow you to take very high-quality photos. Reviews LUMIX DMC-FT30EE are almost all positive.

Rekam iLook S970i

We selected the above models from leading manufacturers, the quality of which we have no doubt. The latest review camera from the little-known Canadian manufacturer Rekam. The company is best known for professional photo studio equipment, but has several inexpensive cameras, such as the Rekam iLook S970i, which costs as little as $70.

This is the most common soap dish with a matrix resolution of 21 megapixels and a digital zoom of 8x. The maximum resolution for photos is 5616x3744 pixels, for videos - 1280x720 pixels.

The quality of the shooting is quite consistent with the price. Reviews report that in good daylight, the pictures are pretty decent. You should definitely not expect much from this model.

The rest of the camera received ISO sensitivity 100-800, auto start 2,5,10 seconds and automatically modes: auto, sport, night shooting, landscape, portrait, bright scene, beach, party, high sensitivity. In addition, there is image stabilization, a face and smile detection function, as well as a panoramic shooting mode.

In our opinion, Rekam iLook S970i is more suitable for work than for family shooting when you want to capture best moments life in high quality. Although if you want to save money and do not present high demands, then the model fits perfectly.

Conclusion

The first four models, although they are quite inexpensive, will provide the highest quality shooting for their money. We have included the latest model more for comparison, as it does not match the level presented by Sony, Nikon, Panasonic and Canon at all.

Buying a good digital camera doesn't have to be a big hit on a family's budget. Manufacturers of optical devices, fortunately, have long moved away from the policy of exorbitant prices. Modern market offers many good and inexpensive digital cameras, allowing you to capture the best moments of life in order to review them again and again with pleasure.

There are not so many companies in the segment of such devices, but they have been offering their products for more than a dozen years, which allows us to cast aside all doubts about its quality. In order not to be unfounded, we offer a rating of the best inexpensive cameras, which has brought together the highest quality and functional models with a price tag that is pleasant for the buyer.

The best inexpensive cameras - price-quality rating

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Nikon Coolpix L840

The most popular inexpensive camera in our TOP, despite its compact size, has quite powerful characteristics. Nikon engineers have equipped their best budget model with a 1/2.3-inch 16.76 megapixel CMOS sensor, thanks to which pictures can be taken at resolutions up to 4608x3456. The camera lens uses low dispersion lenses, which made it possible to work out a high-quality 38x optical and 4x digital zoom, as well as build support for macro photography with a focus from 22.5 to 855 mm. To convey the beauty of the picture being photographed, 3D color matrix metering allows the exposure, thanks to which the sensor captures every detail. Given the attractive price tag of 15,000 rubles, this model can no doubt be called the best mirrorless camera in our review.

Advantages:

• support for shooting Full HD video
• Convenient 3-inch auto-rotate display
• optical image stabilization
• work with Wi-Fi, HMDI and support for memory cards
• easy to use
• WiFi and NFC support
• One battery charge is enough for 590 shots

Flaws:

• Difficulty setting up Wi-Fi
• no RAW format support
• electronic viewfinder not included

The legendary company Canon has not remained aloof from the budget segment and has offered one of the best inexpensive cameras for beginner photographers. The main advantage of the camera can without a shadow of a doubt be called the lens, which received a 42x optical and 4x digital zoom, a combination of aspherical and low dispersion lenses, as well as an excellent focal length ranging from 24 to 1008 mm. Such parameters allow you to use the camera's capabilities to the maximum, regardless of the distance to the object. The matrix of the camera, judging by customer reviews, manifests itself at the highest level, since the 20.5 megapixel CCD sensor is capable of obtaining an image in an incredible 5152x3864 format. One of the most practical features of the camera is the presence of its own battery, the capacity of which is enough for as many as 195 photos.

Advantages:

• support for Wi-Fi, memory cards and NFC
• comfortable 3-inch display
• selectable photo aspect ratio (4:3, 3:2, 1:1, 16:9)
• convenient compact body
• works great in automatic mode
• price-performance ratio

Flaws:

• the battery does not charge without being removed from the device
• average video quality

When planning your annual vacation, you should never forget about the camera. Since the trip will take 1-2 weeks, it is better to take a compact camera. For example, Cyber-shot DSC-WX350. Sony optics have been considered exemplary not only in Japan, but throughout the world for decades, not by chance. Despite its modest dimensions, the camera has a 21.1-megapixel CMOS sensor with digital 4x and optical 20x zoom, allowing you to take pictures no worse than with a classic camera. A serious advantage of the camera is its fast operation: the shooting speed of the device can, depending on the mode, reach 10 photos per second. A camera with many positive qualities and a compact size for 12,000 rubles is an offer that you should not refuse.

Advantages:

• powerful built-in battery (up to 470 shots)
• shooting Full HD-video with FPS 50/60 fps
• HDR high contrast shooting mode
• many add-ons (red-eye avoidance, multi-zone exposure metering and others)
• stylish appearance
• a good stabilizer
• minimum weight and dimensions
• combination of price and quality

Flaws:

• complex embedded system (takes a long time to get used to)
• inconvenient flash location

The question of which is better to buy a compact camera with good quality photo, it would be easier to resolve if only Sony Cyber-shot was present on the market. However, the Samsung WB100 imposes quite serious competition on it. The South Korean gadget received, albeit a small, but well-designed 16.4 megapixel CCD matrix, due to which the resolution of images can reach 4608x3456 format. The model stands out among the proposed options with the best digital zoom, which allows you to zoom in 5x without losing image quality. What's more, when photographing on the move, the quality of the night shots is head and shoulders above some of the more expensive competitors. A serious help when buying a camera will be the price of 10,000-11,000 rubles, which will seem tiny if you remember the parameters of the device.

Advantages:

• 26x optical zoom
• intuitive interface
• Excellent battery life (socket for 4 "AA" batteries)
• affordable price
• 26x Zoom
• excellent white balance
• availability of universal optics

Flaws:

• badly captures a moving picture
• average video quality (HD up to 30 frames)

You won't find a better travel camera. Incredibly compact, handy, sturdy and reliable, this is the ultimate camera for the thrill-seekers. The device, in addition to the external component, received very worthy characteristics: 25-card optical zoom, 21.1-megapixel matrix, photo resolution up to 5184 × 3888. The additional functionality of a light and compact camera from Canon in the form of a high-quality optical stabilizer and center-weighted exposure metering allows you to use the device for any purpose: both for active shooting on the move and for photographing beautiful landscapes. In other words, a good digital camera for 11,000-12,000 is exactly what every travel enthusiast should purchase before their next trip.

Advantages:

• incredibly comfortable size
• excellent shooting even at maximum zoom
• own long-life battery (up to 295 photos)
• Full HD video
• light weight

Flaws:

• poor image quality in low light
• slow burst shooting (up to 2.5 frames per second)

Nikon Coolpix A300

The popular manufacturer Nikon also took care of customers who do not like excesses. The Coolpix A300 model costs around 10,000 rubles, while the camera has very good characteristics that allow you to capture the most valuable moments in life with high quality. Matrix 20.48 megapixels, resolution up to 5152x3864, optical stabilization and contrast autofocus - an excellent set of parameters for a good camera without unnecessary bells and whistles. A nice bonus is support for HD video recording, which, combined with a microphone input and electronic stabilization, gives camera owners the opportunity to make great videos with high-quality sound. Buying this inexpensive and good camera will definitely not make you regret the money spent.

Advantages:

• compact size and light weight
• long work battery (up to 240 shots)
• support for memory cards, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
• 3D color matrix metering
• stylish design
• high performance lens

Flaws:

• medium lens parameters (8x optical zoom)
• small 2.7 inch screen

Canon IXUS 190

The inexpensive “soap dish” from Canon completes our rating of a budget price digital camera. Compact dimensions, robust housing and simple software interface make the device convenient for both adults and children. The 20-megapixel CCD-type sensor perfectly captures every detail of the composition, allowing you to create good shots format up to 5152×3864. Despite the fact that IXUS 190 is positioned as a relatively cheap camera (8000-9000 rubles), it has such parameters as optical stabilization, 10x optical zoom and support for Wi-Fi and NFC. This allows not only high-quality photography, but also comfortable to use the camera.

Advantages:

• good battery for 190 shots
• red eye removal
• excellent build quality
• the presence of the auto zoom function
• 4x digital zoom

Flaws:

• slow motion (up to 0.8 fps)
• photo distortion in low light

What is the best inexpensive camera to buy?

The buyer has a fairly wide selection of the best models of cameras, for which you do not have to overpay. Each of them has a unique set of parameters and characteristics that allow you to take excellent quality pictures. A similar situation in the segment of optical devices allows you to choose an inexpensive and good camera without any doubts that another model would be better. A good budget camera should always be at hand when traveling to beautiful places, as well as in the work of novice amateur photographers.