No camera is especially designed for beginners. Even if there are cameras labeled as professional or entry-level, the difference exist in the feature that they have. Entry-level cameras can also be used for professional purposes as long as the photographer feel that all they require are in said camera. A professional camera will in turn also be rendered less useful if the user don’t need all the features it has to offer.
If you’re serious in diving into the world of photography, then it’s no problem purchasing an expensive/professional camera right from the get go. Many think that it’s better to first buy a cheaper camera and upgrade once your skills have improved. This train of thought will in fact increase the funds you’ll have to use. If you are in fact serious, buy a professional camera and familiarize yourself with every function it has to offer and maximize its use.
You may have wondered whether it’s best to either buy an older professional second-hand camera or a brand new entry-level camera. An older professional camera may be superior when it comes to the camera body material, but the technology is inevitably out of date and been far surpassed by today’s entry-level cameras. Which is better? It’s up to you to decide.
There are now entry-level camera (cheapest DSLR), semi-pro cameras, and professional DSLRs available in the market. Entry levels are the cheapest, usually around 600 USD, and it’s not bad in quality but may have its limitations in function. Entry level DSLRs can produce professional-looking photographs but you may have to compensate on some things when it comes to features. Semi-pro DSLRs are sometimes also used by professionals as a backup camera. Semi-pros are better than entry-levels but that means that it also reflects on the price. Basically, buy a DSLR that best suit your needs and is within your budget. The more expensive (usually) the better the quality and will generally be more durable because of the material used to construct its components.
There are those that think compact pocket cameras can be replaced by a camera phone. Though there may be some truth there, camera phones don’t usually have optical zoom. It usually only has digital zoom; which when used, will decrease the quality of its output.
So in a nutshell, what can be suitably called a “professional” or an “amateur” is the photographer and not the camera used. The best camera for beginners or for professionals differ in necessity.
