Roots & Ridgeways

I believe the journey of a good photographer begins with a phone camera. At some point, though, graduating to a beginner camera is a right of passage.

The research can be extensive. It is akin to learning a new language. You can easily end up dropping thousands of dollars.

As an amateur photographer, I use the Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless camera with 4k video, a 24.1MP CMOS sensor, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, and a Vari-Angle touchscreen.

Let’s breakdown what that jumble of words actually means.

Canon – a commonly lauded brand of photography equipment

EOS (Electro-Optical System) – Has an electronic lens mount, which allows for auto-focus and automatic control of the camera lens.

M50 – The “M” stands for mirrorless (more on that below), and the “50” is simply the model number.

Mirrorless – A “mirrorless” camera uses an electronic sensor instead of the physical mirror and prism used by DSLR cameras. Mirrorless cameras have a live view on the screen that shows how the image will look before it’s taken. These cameras are (typically) smaller, lighter, quieter, and shoot at faster continuous speeds.

4k Video – The m50 is Canon’s first entry-level mirrorless camera to offer 4k video. Essentially, “4k video” has a resolution of 4,000 pixels. More pixels equal a clearer image, which is important when you want high quality film footage.

You can shoot in 4k video at 24 frames per second (fps). You can shoot in Full HD, 1080P at 24, 30, and 60 fps.

The main reason you’d shoot in a higher fps is filming athletics or busy scenery. The higher frames (photos) per second would capture fast-moving subjects without blurriness.

24.1MP CMOS sensor – “CMOS” stands for complementary metal oxide semiconductor. For beginner purposes, it is a description of how the sensor converts light into a digital image. If you’re interested in the science, I suggest reading this article: What Is a CMOS Image Sensor?

Dual Pixel CMOS AF – “Auto Focus” (AF) is extremely helpful for beginners. This particular camera has an superior auto focus system to produce clear photos of your subjects. I love it when I’m shooting portraits.

Vari-Angle touchscreen – Rather than a standard screen display, this camera has a display that flips out and can be rotated in any direction.

Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth – This is helpful for transferring photos from the camera to a laptop or phone. I typically transfer photos the classic way through an SD card insert in my laptop.

This isn’t the complete list of specs, but it’s information I found helpful when researching for my first camera. I suggest reading this review for more info: Canon M50 Mirrorless Review

Example Photos

For more example photos I have taken using my Canon EOS m50, click here: Dreamy Maternity Photos near Blowing Rock, NC.

Price

I wasn’t comfortable spending hundreds of dollars on my first camera, but I still wanted high quality. Thus ensued countless hours scrolling on Facebook Marketplace.

It was worth it, though, when I found my Canon EOS m50 for $350, including two batteries and a charger. The seller was a business photographer who was looking to upgrade. Find a reputable and responsive seller in case you have follow-up questions.

Ebay seems to be a decent place for secondhand cameras as well.

If you’re nervous buying secondhand, equip yourself with this article: What to Check When Buying a Used Camera

Conclusion

I am still a newbie in the photography world, but I hope you found my advice helpful.

Photography is a wonderful outlet to capture the beauty of creation and share it with your community.

Let’s get back to our roots!

For more articles, click here.

Have something to share? Comment down below!