Getting started in the exciting world of photography can be quite a difficult task at first, considering that you need to pay attention to the smallest details. And it’s not just about capturing the best moment. The right equipment needs to be ready for the task.

Choosing them is a big challenge for professionals and infamous enthusiasts; imagine what it’s like for amateurs. If that’s your case, worry no more. This article has everything you need to get started on the right foot. 

Is photography an expensive activity? 

In general, photography is not a cheap activity. It requires a lot of quality equipment to carry out specific tasks. For example, the cost of a photographer who wants to capture images of insects and other very small animals will be much higher than that of a person who takes photos for weddings.  

This happens because the type of lens used to photograph tiny objects is very specific (and expensive); on the other hand, more conventional lenses are perfectly capable of delivering incredible results for parties and ceremonies. 

In other words, photography is, yes, an expensive job (or hobby, for some), but the final price will depend on what you intend to do. Since your goal is to start from scratch or with little experience, see below the equipment you need to get started.

Basic equipment 

First of all, consider your budget. If you can't afford to buy everything at once, that's okay. Buy little by little until your collection is complete. 

Input camera 

It’s important to start with great equipment, but it doesn’t have to be prohibitive either. Check out some of the best entry-level models below to study photography and start your first projects: 

• Canon EOS R100: An excellent mirrorless camera with a 24.1 MP sensor, electronic viewfinder and articulated touchscreen. In addition, it is compatible with numerous types of lenses from the brand, making it an extremely versatile and affordable option; 
• Nikon D3500: A DSLR camera that seems to have been made for photography beginners. Its 24.2 MP sensor delivers images of sublime quality. In addition to the optical viewfinder, it has a 3-inch LCD screen to help capture the best moments; 
• Fujifilm X-T200: Another mirrorless camera option for those looking for an easy-to-use device. Its 24.2 MP sensor is one of the best in its category, and it also has a touchscreen. Like its competitors, it is compatible with several Fujifilm lenses. 

To choose your first camera, prefer to search for the best price on the most established marketplaces, such as Amazon and eBay. These platforms have mechanisms in place to ensure that you receive the product you want, or they will refund your money. 

Canon EOS R100. Image: Canon Europe 

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Lens 

Attachable lenses make all the difference in the final quality of your work. Check out some suggestions: 

• Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM: Want to take stunning portraits, even in low-light conditions? This is a great entry-level option for Canon users. Its fixed focal length of 50mm allows for sharp, clear images, as well as excellent color definition; 
• Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G: A high-quality and versatile lens, very advantageous for the price. In addition to portraits, street photography and incredible landscapes, take photos at night without any major problems; 
• Fujifilm XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS: Its focal length of 18-55mm allows fine adjustments to capture unforgettable moments. Like all its competitors, when it comes to night photography, it does not disappoint. 

Tripod 

It can help you keep your camera steady and avoid blurry images. People with very shaky hands or who need to record events during strong winds can benefit greatly from a good tripod. 

What’s more, if you use slower shutter speeds, any movement can compromise the image quality. A tripod solves this problem once and for all! 

Memory card 

Photos taken by cameras of this type tend to take up a lot of memory space, so choose memory cards with at least 128GB.  

It's recommended to choose even larger capacities if you eventually plan to record videos with the camera. These are usually stored in RAW format, which takes up a huge amount of space.

Batteries and chargers 

Some cameras have their own batteries built into the device, while others use batteries. It’s always a good idea to have spare batteries in your bag – just in case.  

These gadgets consume a lot of energy, especially if the flash is used frequently. If you have to do any work outside, never forget to bring extra chargers and batteries.

Polarizing filter 

This item can help reduce glare and reflections on non-metallic surfaces. Photos in water or glass can look much better with the addition of a polarizing filter. 

It is quite easy to find on the internet. The best marketplaces offer thousands of different options to suit all budgets. 

Camera Backpack 

Instead of storing your delicate equipment anywhere, how about transporting it in a backpack? You can find them on the official websites of their respective brands as well as on major marketplaces. 

Don’t worry. These backpacks tend to be made of highly durable materials and have padding to prevent damage in the event of a fall or collision. Remember, you’re carrying a few hundred dollars. Don’t waste it! 

Ready to get started? 

The list of basic photography equipment has come to an end. It may seem like a lot at first glance, but only the essentials have been included here. As mentioned at the beginning of this article, this is an art that values the details. 

There are tons of photography enthusiasts all over the world. Thousands of YouTube channels showcase their work during trips, studio shoots, and many other more intimate occasions. The important thing is that it is an art form with endless inspirations to be explored.

Do you already have some kind of experience in this universe? Or are you literally starting from scratch? Tell us about your experiences in the comments!