I have been asked by a number of parents and 4-H’ers for recommendations on cameras and photography equipment. As I’ve mentioned, I’m not too concerned with the device a 4-H photographer uses to capture an image. A great photo can be shot with the worst quality camera. I’m mainly focused on developing a keen eye for a good image, developing and encouraging creativity, and growing your skills as an effective communicator.
You may use whatever camera equipment you have available to you: a simple entry-level digital camera, a smartphone, a point-and-shoot camera, or a DSLR with interchangeable lenses.
However,
If this is your second year or more in the photography project, I’m strongly recommending that you purchase or borrow a DSLR camera for the coming year, rather than relying on a point-and-shoot or smart phone. For the 2024-25 4-H year, I’d like to see 4-H’ers learn more about the technique and workings of a DSLR camera, so many of our workshops are going to focus on that.
If you’re looking for gift ideas for your 4-H photographer, or want to outfit them with some camera equipment, I have a few suggestions for different budgets.
Before you start researching and reviewing, please keep these considerations in mind:
- The most important factor in buying a camera is knowing what you can afford. If buying an $800 camera is way out of your price range, then don’t despair. Find something that is more in your price range, or see if you can borrow a camera for your project work. Also considering buying used or refurbished camera gear from a reputable source, as you can save a lot of money, and still get great quality.
- Don’t worry too much about “brands.” If you’re buying a DSLR camera from Nikon, Canon, Sony, Olympus, etc., it’s going to deliver great quality. One consideration is that if you have access to some Nikon lenses, for example, you might consider buying a Nikon camera body that can fit these lenses.
Please take the time to watch this video for a great overview. It asks the right questions for you to consider before buying:
Camera Recommendations:
What to avoid:
I don't recommend purchasing an "Instant" camera that prints photos on the fly, like the Polaroid Go, Fujifilm Instax, Kodak M35, or any disposable camera. These cameras have cheap lenses, don't offer any ability to control your image, and are environmentally wasteful, requiring film packs and materials. You'll want digital photo files so that you can print enlargements for displaying. Save your money.
It is perfectly okay to shoot photos with a smart phone camera:
For first-year 4-H photographers, the Apple iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel and Oppo all offer excellent built-in cameras that can produce high-quality images. Smart phone cameras have some degree of adjustment, take great photos, and have some filters built-in, but if you want to learn more about photography, and controlling your image, please consider using a DSLR instead.
If you are able, please consider investing or borrowing a DSLR camera instead of using a smart phone camera, so that you can learn with us.
Kodak AZ401RD Point & Shoot Digital Camera
This is a good entry-level digital camera that has a powerful zoom, a wide angle lens, and takes 16MP images.
Camera only: $150 >>
Kit with tripod, memory card, case, card reader and accessory kit: $219 >>
If you are able, please consider investing or borrowing a DSLR camera instead of using a point-and-shoot digital camera.
Nikon Z50 Mirrorless digital camera
Compact, lightweight and durably constructed mirrorless camera with a large 55 millimeter lens mount, offering advantages in high image quality and lowlight performance. 20.9 MP sensor with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for simple pairing to a smartphone. Includes 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 and a 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 lenses
Compact mirrorless stills/video camera with wide-angle and telephoto zoom lens
For roughly the same price, you can get a full camera kit with a case, tripod, memory cards, etc. >>
Canon EOS R100 Mirrorless Camera
Canon EOS R100 Mirrorless Camera Body with 2 Lens Kit RF-S 18-45mm is STM and RF-S 55-210mm is STM 6052C022 Bundle with Photography Bag + 2 x Battery + 2 x 64GB Memory Cards + Accessories
Sony ZV-E10 Mirrorless Camera
What to avoid:
I don't recommend purchasing an "Instant" camera that prints photos on the fly, like the Polaroid Go, Fujifilm Instax, Kodak M35, or any disposable camera. These cameras have cheap lenses, don't offer any ability to control your image, and are environmentally wasteful, requiring film packs and materials. You'll want digital photo files so that you can print enlargements for displaying. Save your money. It is perfectly okay to shoot photos with a smart phone camera:
For first-year 4-H photographers, the Apple iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel and Oppo all offer excellent built-in cameras that can produce high-quality images. Smart phone cameras have some degree of adjustment, take great photos, and have some filters built-in, but if you want to learn more about photography, and controlling your image, please consider using a DSLR instead.
If you are able, please consider investing or borrowing a DSLR camera instead of using a smart phone camera, so that you can learn with us.
Kodak AZ401RD Point & Shoot Digital Camera
This is a good entry-level digital camera that has a powerful zoom, a wide angle lens, and takes 16MP images. Camera only: $150 >> Kit with tripod, memory card, case, card reader and accessory kit: $219 >>
If you are able, please consider investing or borrowing a DSLR camera instead of using a point-and-shoot digital camera.
Nikon Z50 Mirrorless digital camera
Compact, lightweight and durably constructed mirrorless camera with a large 55 millimeter lens mount, offering advantages in high image quality and lowlight performance. 20.9 MP sensor with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for simple pairing to a smartphone. Includes 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 and a 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 lensesCompact mirrorless stills/video camera with wide-angle and telephoto zoom lens
For roughly the same price, you can get a full camera kit with a case, tripod, memory cards, etc. >>
Canon EOS R100 Mirrorless Camera
Canon EOS R100 Mirrorless Camera Body with 2 Lens Kit RF-S 18-45mm is STM and RF-S 55-210mm is STM 6052C022 Bundle with Photography Bag + 2 x Battery + 2 x 64GB Memory Cards + Accessories
Sony ZV-E10 Mirrorless Camera