Suppose you're just dipping your toes into the vast ocean of photography and find yourself in the enchanting city of Singapore. In that case, selecting a camera that caters to your needs and unlocks the hidden depths of your creative prowess is crucial. Choosing the perfect camera from a sea of options is like trying to find a needle in a haystack but with a touch of pizzazz. To save you from the agony of decision-making, we've handpicked the crème de la crème of cameras for beginners in Singapore. Our lineup boasts cameras that are as user-friendly as a well-trained puppy, capturing images with the finesse of a seasoned artist and equipped with more features than a Swiss Army knife at a tech convention. Whether you're a budding photographer or want to up your selfie game, our guide will help you find the camera that will make your Instagram followers "wow" in the Lion City.
Here is a short guide to help you find the perfect first camera if you find that the time has come for you to upgrade from your smartphone.
Editor
Eric Ryan chevron_right
Table of Contents
10 Best Cameras for Beginners in Singapore 2024
Why It's Our Top Pick
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is an excellent beginner camera for photography due to its impressive features and user-friendly design. A 20.3-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor and advanced image processing technology capture stunning images with good detail, vibrant colors, and dynamic range. The camera's user-friendly design and easy-to-navigate menus make it accessible and easy for beginners to explore different shooting modes. With its small size and lightweight, the Olympus camera is the perfect option for photography study and instruction.
Specification
- Type: Mirrorless
- Sensor Size: Micro Four Thirds
- Megapixel Count: 20.3
Performance
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a powerful mirrorless digital camera for beginners. Its 20.3-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor captures detailed, vibrant photos. Olympus' TruePic VIII picture processor allows fast and responsive performance, including 8.7 fps continuous shooting. The E-M10 Mark IV's 5-axis image stabilization reduces camera shake and sharpens handheld pictures. Its powerful photo modes and creative filters enhance your photography.
Why buy this
The E-M10 Mark IV is the best camera for beginners in Singapore because it offers excellent image quality with a high-resolution sensor and advanced processing technology. Its user-friendly design and versatile shooting options, including automatic and manual modes, enable beginners to explore different styles and techniques, gradually developing their photography skills.
Specification
- Type: DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflect) Camera
- Sensor Size: APS-C (22.3 x 14.9 mm)
- Megapixel Count: 24.1 megapixel
Performance
The Canon EOS 250D/SL3/Kiss X10/200D II is a compact DSLR with excellent performance. Its 24.1-megapixel APS-C sensor takes crisp images. The camera shoots five frames per second with a DIGIC 8 image processor. Its ISO range of 100-25600, expandable to 51200, excels in low light and versatility. Dual Pixel, CMOS AF enables fast, accurate autofocus for stills and films. The best beginner camera that we can offer.
Why buy this
The Canon EOS 250D/SL3 / Kiss X10 / 200D II is a lightweight DSLR camera with 4K video recording capabilities at 24p and 60p. Its user-friendly interface includes a vari-angle touchscreen LCD, easy menu navigation, and a guided user interface. These are why the Canon EOS 250D is the best camera for beginners in Singapore.
Specification
- Type: DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflect) Camera
- Sensor Size: APS-C (22.3 x 14.9 mm)
- Megapixel Count: 32.5 megapixels
Performance
DSLRs like Canon's EOS 90D provide high-resolution imaging capabilities and advanced features, suitable for various photography genres. It features a 32.5-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, DIGIC 8 image processor, versatile ISO range, high-speed continuous shooting mode, and a 45-point autofocus system for accurate subject tracking and focus.
Why buy this
It would help if you bought the Canon EOS 90D, the best beginner camera with its versatile DSLR, high-resolution imaging, advanced autofocus, and user-friendly features. Its 32.5-megapixel APS-C sensor produces vibrant photos, and the 45-point autofocus technology ensures sharp, well-focused shots. The EOS system offers multiple native lenses for experimentation and skill improvement.
Specification
- Type: Mirrorless Digital Camera
- Sensor Size: APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm) Exmor sensor
- Megapixel Count: 24.2 megapixels
Performance
The Sony Alpha A6600 mirrorless digital camera has excellent image quality and innovative functionality. Its 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor produces sharp, colorful, low-noise photos. Sony's BIONZ X image processor enables fast and responsive performance, including 11 frames per second continuous shooting. Its 425 phase-detection autofocus points ensure fast and precise focusing in complex settings. In-body image stabilization on the A6600 sharpens handheld images. It records 4K videos with creative possibilities.
Why buy this
The Sony A6600 offers excellent image quality with a high-resolution sensor and advanced processing. It excels in low light conditions with its wide ISO range and noise reduction capabilities. Its autofocus system and 5-axis in-body image stabilization provide sharp handheld shots. The Sony A6600 is genuinely one of the best Sony cameras for beginners.
Specification
- Type: Full-frame Hybrid Camera
- Sensor Size: Full-frame (35.6 x 23.8 mm)
- Megapixel Count: 61 megapixels
Performance
The Sony Alpha 7 IV is one the best digital cameras for beginners because it's a powerful full-frame hybrid camera for photography and filming. Sony's Alpha series cameras use high-resolution sensors, producing clear, detailed images. Full-frame sensors improve image quality, dynamic range, and low-light performance. The camera should feature superior autofocus for precise and fast focusing under challenging settings. Its 4K recording and excellent video functions make it a versatile content-creation tool.
Why buy this
The Alpha 7 IV is a recommended camera for beginners, for it offers exceptional image quality and versatility, allowing users to capture stunning photos for social media platforms. Its full-frame sensor and advanced autofocus system simplify the capturing process, making it accessible for beginners. The camera also features 4K video recording, making it an ideal choice for social media content creation.
Specification
- Type: Instant Film Camera
- Sensor Size: Not Applicable for Instant Film Cameras
- Megapixel Count: Not Applicable for Instant Film Cameras
Performance
Instax Mini 11 from Fujifilm is a compact instant film camera that is kid-friendly. Young photographers will love its easy shooting experience. The camera automatically adjusts exposure. Its selfie mirror and light let kids take well-lit and framed images. The Instax Mini 11 uses Fujifilm's Instax Mini film for fast credit card-sized prints.
Why buy this
The Instax Mini 11 is designed for simplicity, offering automatic exposure settings and instant prints for easy photo capture. It encourages creative exploration, allowing kids to experiment with compositions, poses, and subjects, fostering artistic abilities and self-expression—a must-recommend digital camera for beginners and children.
Specification
- Type: Mirrorless Digital Camera
- Sensor Size: APS-C (22.3 x 14.9 mm)
- Megapixel Count: 24.1
Performance
The mirrorless solid Canon EOS M50 is a great landscape camera. The 24.1-megapixel APS-C sensor provides high-resolution photos with good dynamic range. Canon's DIGIC 8 image processor allows quick processing and high-quality images. The EOS M50 has a Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system for fast and accurate low-light focusing. This camera lets beginners take great landscape photos with its diverse shooting settings and creative capabilities.
Why buy this
The mirrorless solid Canon EOS M50 is the best beginner camera for landscape photography. The 24.1-megapixel APS-C sensor provides high-resolution photos with good dynamic range. Canon's DIGIC 8 image processor allows quick processing and high-quality images. The EOS M50 has a Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system for fast and accurate low-light focusing. This camera lets beginners take great landscape photos with its diverse shooting settings and creative capabilities.
Specification
- Type: Mirrorless Camera
- Sensor Size: APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm):
- Megapixel Count: 24.2 megapixels
Performance
The Sony ZV-E10 is an excellent beginner filmmaking camera with high-quality video performance, a flip-out front-facing LCD screen, background defocus, product presentation, and face priority auto exposure. It also features a 3.5mm microphone input for enhanced audio, quick workflow, autofocus, and an interchangeable lens system for varied filmmaking needs.
Why buy this
The Sony ZV-E10 is a powerful beginner film camera for filmmakers, offering clear, colorful footage, real-time eye focusing, and subject tracking. Its vari-angle LCD screen, background defocus, and external microphone input provides professional-looking videos. The interchangeable lens system allows for experimentation with different perspectives and focal lengths.
Specification
- Type: Compact Digital Camera
- Sensor Size: 1-inch Exmor RS CMOS sensor
- Megapixel Count: 20.1 megapixels
Performance
The Sony ZV-1 is a small digital camera designed for video makers, offering high-definition video with realistic colors and a 1-inch Exmor RS CMOS sensor. It features fast, real-time eye autofocus, a flip-out LCD screen, comfortable grip, windscreen attachment, background defocus, and product showcase setting. The Sony ZV-1 is a highly recommended camera for beginners.
Why buy this
The Sony ZV-1 is an excellent Sony camera for beginner YouTubers with high-quality footage performance, fast autofocus, flip-out LCD screen, built-in microphone, windscreen, background defocus, and product showcase setting. Its ergonomic grip ensures hand stability, and its compact design makes it ideal for vlogging and self-recording. The camera also offers dedicated video capabilities, such as Background Defocus and Product Showcase Setting, making it a perfect choice for vloggers and YouTubers on the go.
Specification
- Type: Mirrorless Digital Camera
- Sensor Size: APS-C
- Megapixel Count: 26.1 megapixels
Performance
The Fujifilm X-T30 II is a powerful action camera for beginners, offering accurate tracking, high-speed continuous photography, 5-axis image stabilization, Sports Finder Mode, and Pre-Shoot. Its lightweight design allows for easy, exhilarating action shots with excellent quality. Truly one of the best cameras for a beginner.
Why buy this
The Fujifilm X-T30 II is an ideal starting action camera with advanced features like fast and accurate autofocus, high-speed continuous shooting, 5-axis in-body image stabilization, sports Finder Mode, and pre-shoot. It also offers 4K and high-speed video recording, making it convenient for beginners to take action shots without fatigue. The compact, lightweight design ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience during action-packed activities—one of Singapore's best cameras for a beginner photographer.
What is a beginner camera?
The beginner camera is for individuals with limited photography experience or who are new to the field. It offers user-friendly interfaces, simplified controls, automatic shooting modes, image stabilization, and built-in flash and scene modes. These cameras have smaller sensors but deliver high-quality images suitable for everyday photography. They may have interchangeable or fixed lenses, and as users gain experience, they can upgrade to more advanced cameras to expand their photographic capabilities.
What Features should I look for in a Beginner Camera?
When selecting a beginner camera, prioritize ease of use, image quality, autofocus capability, lens options, and built-in image stabilization. Choose a camera with intuitive controls and a user-friendly interface for quick adjustments. Ensure the camera has decent resolution, good low-light performance, and a reliable autofocus system for tracking moving subjects. Consider versatile lens options to expand creative possibilities. Finally, ensure the camera has built-in image stabilization to reduce blur caused by camera shake. These features will help beginners develop their photography skills and explore their creative potential.
What is the Difference Between a Point-and-Shoot Camera and a Beginner Camera?
Point-and-shoot cameras are designed for simplicity and convenience, offering automatic settings and minimal manual controls. They are compact, lightweight, and easy to use, making them ideal for casual photography. On the other hand, beginner cameras, like entry-level DSLRs or mirrorless cameras, offer advanced features, greater control over settings, interchangeable lenses, larger image sensors, and manual shooting modes. These cameras provide a stepping stone for aspiring photographers to explore the art of capturing images, offering more room for growth and experimentation.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Camera for a Beginner
Given the many possibilities, choosing a camera for a beginner can be overwhelming. Consider these factors to help you decide:
- Budget: Setting a budget can help you focus on cameras in your pricing range.
- Camera Type: Choose a point-and-shoot for portability or a DSLR or mirrorless for control and flexibility.
- Megapixels: For beginners, 12-24 megapixels are acceptable.
- Sensor Size: In low light, larger sensors generate better images. APS-C or full-frame cameras perform better.
- Lenses: Consider the camera system's replaceable lenses. Different lenses enable varied shooting.
- Manual Controls: Find a camera with manual aperture, shutter speed, and ISO controls.
- User-Friendly Interface: Choose a camera with a simple menu system. It simplifies camera settings and features.
- Image Stabilization: When shooting handheld or low light, built-in image stabilization reduces camera shake blur.
- Video Recording: Look for cameras with adequate quality, frame rates, and autofocus for video recording.
- Connectivity: Look for built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for wireless photo sharing.
- Size and Weight: If you carry the camera often, consider its size and weight. Traveling or daily use may require a tiny camera.
- Reviews and Suggestions: Read credible reviews or ask expert photographers or online groups about the camera's performance and reliability.
Best Camera for Beginner Brands in Singapore
There are several camera brands that are popular and well-regarded for beginners in Singapore. Here are some of the top brands known for their beginner-friendly cameras:
- Canon: Canon is a leading camera brand and offers a wide range of models suitable for beginners. Their entry-level DSLR cameras, such as the Canon EOS 2000D or Canon EOS 4000D, are known for their ease of use and affordable price points.
- Nikon: Nikon is another renowned camera brand with a strong presence in Singapore. Their entry-level DSLR cameras, like the Nikon D3500 or Nikon D5600, are popular choices among beginners due to their user-friendly interfaces and excellent image quality.
- Sony: Sony is known for its mirrorless cameras, which are compact and offer high-quality image sensors. The Sony Alpha a6000 and Sony Alpha a6100 are popular mirrorless options for beginners, offering advanced features and interchangeable lenses.
- Fujifilm: Fujifilm cameras have gained a lot of popularity for their retro designs and excellent image quality. The Fujifilm X-T200 and Fujifilm X-A7 are beginner-friendly mirrorless cameras that offer intuitive controls and versatile shooting options.
- Panasonic: Panasonic is known for its mirrorless cameras, particularly in the Lumix series. The Panasonic Lumix G7 and Panasonic Lumix G85 are popular choices for beginners, offering 4K video capabilities and a wide range of lens options.
These brands offer a variety of models at different price points, so it's a good idea to visit camera stores in Singapore or check online retailers to compare features and prices based on your specific requirements and budget. Additionally, it's recommended to read reviews and seek advice from experienced photographers to make an informed decision.
Camera for Beginners Price Range in Singapore
The price range for cameras suitable for beginners in Singapore can vary depending on the type of camera and its features. Here's a general overview of the price range for different camera types:
- Entry-level DSLR Cameras: Entry-level DSLR cameras are typically the most affordable option for beginners. Prices for these cameras can range from around SGD 500 to SGD 1,000. Some popular models in this range include the Canon EOS 2000D, Nikon D3500, and Sony Alpha a68.
- Mirrorless Cameras: Mirrorless cameras tend to be more compact and offer advanced features. Prices for beginner-friendly mirrorless cameras typically range from SGD 600 to SGD 1,500. The Sony Alpha a6000, Fujifilm X-T200, and Panasonic Lumix G7 are some examples within this price range.
- Compact Cameras: Compact cameras are portable and often come with built-in lenses. Prices for entry-level compact cameras can range from SGD 300 to SGD 800. Models like the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II, Sony RX100, and Panasonic Lumix LX10 fall within this range.
It's important to note that these price ranges are approximate and can fluctuate based on factors such as sales, promotions, and camera kit configurations (with or without lenses). It's advisable to check with local retailers, online stores, and authorized camera dealers in Singapore to get the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
Where to buy Camera for Beginners in Singapore?
There are several places in Singapore where you can buy cameras for beginners. Here are some popular options:
- Camera Retail Stores: There are numerous camera retail stores in Singapore that specialize in selling cameras and related equipment. Some well-known camera retailers include Alan Photo, Cathay Photo, and TK Foto. These stores offer a wide range of camera brands and models, along with knowledgeable staff who can assist you in selecting the right camera for your needs.
- Electronics Retailers: Large electronics retailers like Harvey Norman, Courts, and Best Denki also have dedicated camera sections where you can find a variety of beginner-friendly cameras. They often carry popular camera brands and offer competitive pricing.
- Online Marketplaces: Online marketplaces provide convenient access to a wide range of camera options. Platforms like Lazada, Shopee, and Qoo10 have a significant presence in Singapore and offer a variety of camera models from different sellers. Make sure to check the seller's reputation, customer reviews, and return policies before making a purchase.
- Authorized Brand Stores: Many camera brands have their own stores or official brand outlets in Singapore. These stores, such as the Canon Image Square or Sony Store, specialize in selling cameras, lenses, and accessories from their respective brands. They often provide a direct and reliable source for purchasing beginner-level cameras.
- Secondhand Camera Markets: If you're open to purchasing used equipment, Singapore has a thriving secondhand camera market. Places like the Peninsula Shopping Centre and Sim Lim Square have shops that deal with pre-owned cameras. However, exercise caution when buying used equipment and ensure that you thoroughly inspect the product before making a purchase.
Before buying, it's a good idea to compare prices, check for ongoing promotions or discounts, and read customer reviews to make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Discover a dazzling array of 10 carefully selected cameras in Singapore to cater to various skill levels and diverse photography passions. This guide offers diverse cameras to capture your heart and Instagram-worthy moments. The selection is well-rounded, considering image quality, user-friendliness, features, and bang for your buck. With these cameras, you'll be ready to embark on your Singapore photography adventure, capturing moments with clarity and creativity like a seasoned pro. Channel your inner Sherlock Holmes and investigate customer reviews to find the perfect camera for your photography dreams. May your aim be as sharp as your wit!