If you are a small business owner or content creator looking to enhance your photography and videography, investing in the right camera is essential. Whether you are capturing promotional content, product photography, social media videos, or vlogs, the ideal entry-level camera should be affordable, easy to use, and equipped with features like an articulating screen and high-quality video recording.

Because I get asked this often, I figured it would be good to create this short article for what I think are five top entry-level cameras that provide a balance of price, features, and performance. Additionally, I will share my thoughts on my favorite camera brand (Sony) and discuss the professional photography gear I use. Let’s jump into it!

Why Sony Is My Favorite Camera Brand

As a Professional Photographer and Videographer , I rely on Sony cameras and lenses because of their fast autofocus, superior image quality, and versatility. I didn’t start off my career with Sony though. Nikon was the brand I started out with and is where I really deepened my passion for capturing great images. While I don’t use that camera setup anymore, it’ll always have a soft spot in my heart. Check out the gear I use for my work:

My Camera Bodies: Sony A7S III – My primary camera for high-end video production Sony A7 III – A versatile camera suitable for both photography and video

My Lenses: Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G – A versatile lens for various shooting conditions Tamron 70-300mm f/4-5.6 – A budget-friendly telephoto lens Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 G-Master – Ideal for wide-angle shots Zeiss 35mm f/1.4 – Perfect for portraits and low-light photography

Sony’s autofocus system, color science, and low-light performance make their cameras an excellent choice for both professionals and beginners. The low-light performance is really what I had kept seeing so much favor for with all of the creators I follow like Ty Turner, Chris Hau, and others. I’m going to level with you, choosing the right camera really depends on your specific needs. If you can rent or borrow one or two different cameras from a friend or colleague for a week or so, that would really give you some hands on insight and a good feel for if you will like using it yourself.

None of these are dirt cheap options, and they shouldn’t be. You are investing in great quality to produce great quality. When it comes time for upgrading your camera gear because you have reached specific limitations, you’ll know and know what exactly new gear you’ll need. If you need a compact, high-quality camera, the Sony ZV-1 is an excellent choice. For those looking for an affordable mirrorless camera, the Canon EOS R50 is a great option. If video is your primary focus, the Nikon Z30 and Fujifilm X-S10 offer strong hybrid capabilities. Let me know what you choose, I’m curious.