One of my favorite hobbies is taking photos and videos when various cameras while hiking. Sharing my photos and videos from hikes and adventures is always something I take pleasure in. Over the years, I have taken many cameras with me. Here are some great camera options for any budget that you can take on your next adventure.
DSLR Cameras
A DSLR will be the best of the best when it comes to depth of field and, overall, just a sharper image. Nowadays, almost all DSLR cameras shoot amazing video quality as well. However, it will also be the bulkiest and heaviest, not to mention the type of lenses you will be carrying. This will depend on whether you are out shooting landscape, birds, or flowers. These will dictate what type of lenses you will want to carry. I typically only carry a DSLR if I’m shooting astrophotography, where I’m trying to capture the stars or the milky way. You can only get that type of shot with a camera like a DSLR.
Beginner Model
If you are a beginner photographer, getting a camera bundle such as the Canon Rebel Series models is a great option. These will give you great quality photos and videos while on a budget. While these bundles come with a stock lens (usually an 18-55mm), I recommend upgrading to a better lens such as a 50mm or a 24mm – 105mm if your budget allows it.
Intermediate Model
Canon offers a few mid-range camera models like the Canon 80 and 90D models. These cameras will come with more specs and have a little more weight to the camera bodies. Again, always upgrade to a better lens when your budget allows it.
After owning a camera for a while and you want to get into new technology such as mirrorless, Canon offers a mid-range priced camera such as the Canon RP. This is a great option to start dipping your toes into the mirrorless world.
Why consider mirrorless? The mirrorless cameras are lighter, smaller, shoot faster photos and better if you are shooting video. If you are shooting wildlife, mirrorless cameras are quieter, and there’s even an option for a silent shutter, so you cannot hear a picture snap at all.
Pro Model
Why would you ever spend thousands of dollars on a pro model camera when there are cheaper options out there? Have you ever seen amazing photos in National Geographic magazine or website and wish you could create an image like that? Chances are, they are using the higher-end camera models with an upgraded, high-end lens. The high-end cameras have double the megapixels of typical point and shot cameras. Being able to shoot bigger and faster is a huge plus from a pro body model DSLR camera.
Point and Shoot Cameras
If a DLSR isn’t what you want to get into, a point and shoot camera is a great option. Point and shoot cameras these days can shoot over 20 megapixels and 4k video. I like the Canon point and shoot cameras such as the Canon g7 Mark III or even a cheaper option that I personally own is a Canon sx740. These cameras are amazing and very versatile. The zoom on these cameras is insanely good, where you can zoom in on the moon or any bird or flower you want a photo/video of. This is a great option over a DLSR because you can get a great quality photo or video at a fraction of the price and not have to worry about changing lenses, and it saves a ton on weight and space.
GoPro
If you are not so much into photography and just want to focus on shooting videos, a GoPro is a great option. GoPros can take more abuse than a traditional camera and are also waterproof. These cameras are getting better and better with each model. These tiny cameras are great because you can attach them anywhere such as your backpack, a head mount or chest mount.
GoPro 360
If you want a different style of video, the GoPro 360 allows you to shoot 360-degree video, making a crazy, warping, fun-looking type of video. With GoPro’s app, you can alter the footage to be 360 or even a super wide angle of the same video. The great thing is, you can edit the video to how you want it to look with total control.
SmartPhone
Everyone has a smartphone these days, so there is no reason not to take great photos. Smartphones are catching up to cameras pretty quickly, so if you are on a budget, just using your smartphone is a great option to get started. I still shoot photos and videos on my iPhone and even sell photos I’ve taken on my phone. Please note, if you are hiking or backpacking and using your phone a lot, consider looking into a power bank to keep your phone charged.
While there is no perfect camera for everyone, it all comes down to what each person wants to accomplish with their camera. Whether trying to film a YouTube video, take some photos or just remember a family vacation, find a camera that works for you and start shooting.
