How do you choose the best camera for your budget?

I use to sell cameras. When purchasing a camera you have to hold if it feels comfortable then that’s it I started with Nikon in 1965 I now have 7 film cameras 4 digital cameras and 22 Nikkor lenses. All lenses fit all cameras

I spend the majority of the money on the lens. Midline cameras work just as well as upper end expensive cameras. My canon 5D 3 is better for photographing sports than my upper end Canon R5.

Here are the steps to help you choose the best camera for your budget: Define Your Budget: Determine how much you're willing to spend on a camera and its accessories. This will be a crucial factor in your decision-making process, as cameras can vary greatly in price. Identify Your Photography Goals: As mentioned earlier, clarify your purpose for buying a camera. Are you a beginner looking to capture family moments, an enthusiast who wants to explore photography as a hobby, or a professional photographer seeking to expand your gear? Your goals will drive your camera selection. Consider the Type of Camera: There are various types of cameras to choose from, including:

Point-and-Shoot Cameras: Compact and easy to use, great for casual photography. Mirrorless Cameras: Versatile, offer high-quality images, and are generally smaller than DSLRs. DSLR Cameras: Loved by professionals and enthusiasts, offering interchangeable lenses and advanced features. Bridge Cameras: A hybrid between compact and DSLR cameras, with powerful zoom capabilities.

In my experience, Do research, read reviews to know if the specs on a body are what you need. You don't need the latest body to make beautiful images. Used and open box equipment is a great way to save on a body or lenes. Buying from a reputable shop that allows for a 2-week or 30 day return to make sure you like the purchase can save money in the long run.

In my experience the style or genre was not a consideration in choosing Sony. I used to use Nikon, but when I switched to digital the Sony was smaller like my FM2 and fit better in my hands. I light the lighter weight which fit more in how I shoot, not what I shoot. A camera is just a tool. You need to pick the right tool for you.

Setting a budget is important. However, if you are serious about photography, set a budget for a camera that can swap lenses. Do NOT buy a camera with a fixed lens. Look for a good entry level DSLR or mirrorless camera. If you can't afford a new one, search local used markets on Offerup or FB marketplace, etc. If you cannot afford a used entry level DSLR or a mirrorless camera, save up $$$. Don't give into the temptation of getting a cheaper point-and-shoot or bridge camera with which you cannot exchange the lens. The good news is that you don't need to wait till you get your hands on a DSLR or a mirrorless. Start taking photos with your phone. Learn the fundamentals like exposure and composition on your phone camera. Be patient.

Know that by choosing a camera you are also sort of choosing a system that includes lenses, flashes, and software support. Canon and Nikon, for example, have been in the "35mm camera" game for so long that there are PLENTY of lenses available. Though they are more late to switch to the mirrorless format, their old dSLR and even SLR lenses still work with an adapter. Other companies like Fuji and Sony are a little bit new in the market so there's less "old" stuff for them out there. Canon has at least 3 EF (50, 100, 180) at at least 1 RF (100) macro lenses while Sony only has 3 and all are under 100mm. Major software such as Lightroom and Capture One also support Canon/Nikon natively while Sony and Fuji may require a plug-in.