Teenagers have diverse needs. Whether they’re into first-person action videos or contemplative fine art photography, there’s a camera for their talents. also, you can motivate them to check out expresswaycine.com for hiring camera equipment & test shooting. I’ve picked the five best digital cameras for teens to help them start their beginner photography journey. From interchangeable lenses to all-on-one zooms, you’ll be able to find just the right teen-oriented tech here!
The 5 Best Digital Cameras for Teens
- Nikon D3500
- Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D
- Canon PowerShot SX420
- KODAK Printomatic Digital Instant Print
- Sony DSC-W800/B
- APEMAN A79
1) Nikon D3500
Entry-level DSLR cameras are often a teenager’s first introduction to the world of interchangeable lenses. And the Nikon D3500 is one of the world’s most popular DSLRs for a very good reason!
The 24-megapixel APS-C sensor is large enough for professional work. The light-gathering potential of these sensors is also much greater than that of smaller ones, even before you reach the impressive maximum ISO of 25,600.
And when paired with a wide aperture lens you can get that shallow depth of field look in portraits and macro images. The button layout and menus are extremely intuitive for beginner photographers and laid out in a way that makes manual diving a thing of the past.
Vloggers will love the Full HD (1080p) video quality at 60 fps, which makes for crisp, smooth YouTube videos. And you have the option of two excellent kit lenses, depending on whether your teen values a walk-around focal length or extra reach. You can choose between the 18-55mm /3.5-5.6G VR or the 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED.
- Sensor Size: APS-C
- Resolution: 24 megapixels
- Weight: 365 grams
- Additional Features: Nikon interchangeable lens mount, 921k-dot fixed LCD screen, ISO range of 100-25600
- Video Quality: Full HD at 60 fps
- Price: Check On Amazon
2) Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D
The Canon EOS Rebel T8i is a DSLR camera that is suitable for both novice and advanced photographers due to its versatile features. It has a 24.1MP APS-C-format CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8 image processor, enabling it to capture high-resolution stills and UHD 4K video recordings.
Its ISO sensitivity range of 100-25600 makes it adaptable to various lighting conditions. The camera’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF feature ensures quick and precise focusing when capturing both movies and stills in live view mode.
Additionally, the camera has a 45-point all cross-type phase-detection system that facilitates fast and accurate focusing when capturing stills using the optical viewfinder.
- 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
- DIGIC 8 Image Processor
- 3.0″ 1.04m-Dot Vari-Angle Touchscreen
- UHD 4K24p Video, Vertical Video Support
- 45-Point All Cross-Type Phase-Detect AF
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Eye Detection
- ISO 100-25600, Up to 7 fps Shooting
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- 220,000-Pixel AE Sensor
- Price: Check On Amazon
3) Canon PowerShot SX420 IS Digital Camera
Sometimes changing lenses around can be too much of a hassle. If you know your teen wants variety but not too much fuss, a bridge camera like the Canon PowerShot SX420 IS might be a good compromise.
One of my favorite features of the PowerShot SX series is the incredible zoom lens that these cameras include. This model uses an astounding 24mm to 1008mm equivalent field of view, allowing you to capture both wide-angle shots and far-distant telephoto images. It’s perfect for teenagers who enjoy walking around taking photos of a little of everything.
And with 20 megapixels of resolution, there is plenty of detail even for medium-sized prints. The camera can even record HD video (720p), though Full HD and 4K video is preferred for YouTube uploads. The camera is simple and intuitive to use, with a slimmed-down menu, attractive color modes, and an affordable price for an entry-level model!
- Sensor Size: 1⅔ inch
- Resolution: 20 megapixels
- Weight: 325 grams
- Additional Features: 42x stabilized optical zoom lens, built-in flash,
- Video Quality: Full HD video
- Price: Check On Amazon
4) KODAK Printomatic Digital Instant Print Camera
Polaroid photography has never truly gone out of fashion. There’s something about instant physical prints that people simply love. The ability to pocket the KODAK Printomatic and take it to parties and other social functions to hand out images to friends makes it a fantastic digital camera for teens!
The camera uses a 5-megapixel sensor and f/2 lens that records an image and then prints it directly to 2×3” photographic film. It’s essentially a hybrid between a digital camera and a photo printer! Best of all, the images can be saved to a Micro SD card, giving you the flexibility of printing or also sharing via social media. An LED automated TTL flash provides extra exposure when shooting indoors.
Print costs are quite reasonable as well, with Kodak film coming in at around $.50 per print; other brands can cost as much as $1 per print. Just remember that the camera automatically creates prints each time you shoot, so compose carefully!
- Resolution: 5 MP
- Weight: 226 grams
- Additional Features: Polaroid printing, 5-megapixel digital sensor, LED flash
- Price: Check On Amazon
You might also be interested in having a look at the Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro. It is a remarkable product that combines nostalgic design with modern photography technology. With its vintage-inspired look, reminiscent of classic instant cameras, this compact device captures the essence of retro charm. Equipped with a built-in printer, it allows users to instantly print their photos, bringing back the joy of holding physical prints in hand. The Mini Shot 3 Retro also features advanced digital imaging capabilities, including a high-resolution sensor and various shooting modes, ensuring crisp and vibrant images. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and stylish way to capture moments, the KODAK Mini Shot 3 Retro offers a delightful blend of classic aesthetics and contemporary functionality.
5) Sony DSC-W800/B 20.1 MP Digital Camera
As a small sensor compact camera, the Sony DSC-W800 is on par with the best smartphones in terms of pure image quality. But image stabilization is something that not every phone has, preventing handshake from causing motion blur when using slow shutter speeds. And the 360-degree panorama mode allows you to take still images in a series and stitch them together, all in camera.
The 5x optical zoom allows you to flexibly compose images and it also has a further 5x digital zoom within in case you need extra reach. And if you need basic video then the DSC-W800 records in HD resolution (720p) at up to 30 frames per second. It’s an ideal pocketable camera for a teen photographer in training!
- Sensor Size: 1⅔ inch
- Resolution: 20 megapixels
- Weight: 125 grams
- Additional Features: 5x stabilized optical zoom, 5x digital zoom,
- Video Quality: HD video at 30 fps
- Price: Check On Amazon
6) APEXCAM Action Camera
If you’re looking for a more affordable GoPro alternative that still gives you the majority of that brand’s features, there’s no better camera than the APEXMAN! For starters, we have our first 4K 30 fps-capable digital camera for teens! The included sensor uses a 170° field of view and a respectable 20 megapixels of resolution for photos on the move.
If underwater photography is important then the included hard case seals the camera down to 40 meters of depth. And once you return to the surface you can pair the camera to your smart device for rapid uploads via WiFi and Bluetooth. Apeman even includes a 64GB SD card, two batteries, and a foldable backpack to get your teen out and record as fast as possible.
And if the standard video isn’t to their taste, the following video modes are possible with the A79: time-lapse, slow motion, and loop recordings! The A79 is one of the best digital cameras for teens if they happen to be a photographer on the move!
- Resolution: 20 megapixels
- Weight: 500 grams
- Additional Features: Waterproof housing included, 4K30p video, several video recording modes, 64 GB SD card + backpack included
- Video Quality: 4K video at 30fps
- Price: Check On Amazon
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Conclusion
Digital cameras for teens should be compact, lightweight, and durable. They should have good image and video quality, Wi-Fi connectivity, and creative modes for experimentation. If for any reason, you are not fully satisfied with our list, there are some other options for good cameras for teens including the Fujifilm X70, Sony a5100, and Canon EOS Rebel T5i. These cameras also offer high megapixel counts, good low-light performance, and full HD video recording.
They also have Wi-Fi connectivity for easy sharing on social media. Creative modes allow teens to experiment with different shooting styles and effects, helping them develop their photography skills and express their creativity.
When selecting a digital camera for a teenager, it’s important to consider their needs and interests and choose a camera that will help them grow as a photographer.
There are some additional resources that can be of great help to you in selecting your camera:
- What Are The Best Mirrorless Cameras Under $1000 – 2023 List!
- Best Compact Cameras Of 2023!
- The Most Affordable R Camera: Canon EOS R50
- Best Video Camera For Vloggers- The Low Budget Options
Thanks for reading, I hope you enjoyed the article, in case you have any questions just drop them below & I will be happy to answer you.
Featured image by Lens & Shutter.
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You’ve written it so well, and you have some really good ideas. This post is outstanding!
Thank You!
I’m really happy to see you recommending cameras for younger people as I’m worried the art will soon be lost to mobile phone photography!
I’m only 23 myself but I have seen many people my age over the years lose interest in photography in favour for just using their phones which they feel are just as good and offer the same things. I think its the sad reality but am glad you’re offering great options for those seeking cameras!
Thanks, Amy! glad that you liked the article.
Great article Ehab. A thorough review of 5 cameras suitable for teens. Ease of use coupled with functionality make for a great camera for anyone but when a teen is starting out, it can be even more frustrating. Maybe even more so for the parent. Getting all the details will make it easier for me to choose one for my daughter. Once again thanks for the article.
Glad that you liked the post Mark. Wish you all the best :).
Thank you very much for this post. In my book, the best camera for a teen is one that has ease of use, good photo quality and ergonomics. For a teen to not lose interest, they must become familiar with the menu settings and special functions of each camera fairly quick. Designs for durability and comfort also play a role.
I Agree Abel! thanks for your input.
With social media and YouTube videos at an all time high, it is little wonder the Nikon D3500 is a top performer in this category. I really think this is amazing camera that will last years (given the right care). A nod of appreciation to the KODAK Printomatic Digital Instant Print Camera too, that is a great camera that has a very retro feel with modern abilities.
Thanks for sharing this list.
Some teenagers would love to take the first step in photography Danny. They don’t want to use it in social media only. That’s why a good beginner DSLR should be on the list. Thanks for dropping by!