If you’re struggling with gift ideas in the countdown to Christmas, we’re here to help. A camera is a perfect present – whether your giftee’s been taking photos for years or wants to get stuck into a new hobby. Plus, high-quality images are priceless and can help your loved one treasure memories for years to come.
However, with so many camera choices out there – from high-tech digital cameras to compact adventure models – it can be tricky to pick the right one. So, we’ve pulled together some of the best cameras on the market right now.
Note: Prices and stock are accurate at the time of publishing.
1. The best camera for beginners
Canon EOS R10
£809.10
If you’re buying for a budding shutterbug who’s keen to take their snaps to the next level, why not consider the Canon EOS R10?
This compact, lightweight mirrorless model offers great value for its price point – boasting impressive autofocus and burst shooting capabilities for rapid-fire action snaps.
Plus, for its small size – which makes it ideal for travelling – the EOS R10 shoots decent video footage. However, because it doesn’t have any in-body image stabilisation to prevent shaky shots, it’s not the best choice if your recipient is primarily an aspiring moviemaker.
2. The best budget camera
Nikon D3500
£294.00
In recent years, many manufacturers have stopped making or updating their DSLR cameras, which reflect images into a viewfinder via a mirror. Instead, they’ve started focusing on mirrorless models (like the Canon EOS R10 above). These use electronic viewfinders and are typically smaller, lighter, and offer faster shooting speeds.
While DSLR cameras may not be as technologically advanced as their mirrorless counterparts, this shift means you can pick up some great DSLR cameras for reasonable prices – such as the Nikon D3500. As Digital Camera World puts it, “The Nikon D3500 isn’t just one of the best entry-level DSLRs you can buy, it’s also one of the cheapest.”
It’s a great budget device for anyone starting their photography journey. The D3500 is officially discontinued now, but you can find secondhand ones online.
3. The best camera for video
Sony ZV-1
£555.00
When buying a camera for a loved one, it’s important to choose one that suits the kind of projects they want to shoot. So, if they’re more of a Steven Spielberg than an Annie Leibovitz, why not consider the Sony ZV-1?
This pocket-sized device shoots far better video than your average smartphone thanks to its bright lens and excellent autofocus system. Whether your recipient wants to create homemade movies or vlogs to upload on YouTube, the Sony ZV-1 is ideal for capturing anything at short distances.
However, the Sony ZV-1 isn’t weather-proof and its stabilisation capabilities leave a little to be desired. For filming adventure sports – like skiing or mountain biking – or shooting in adverse weather conditions, our next suggestion is probably the better choice.
4. The best action camera
GoPro Hero 13 Black
£302.00
Whether you’d like to video yourself cycling through muddy mountain paths, gracefully carving down a ski run, snorkelling with tropical marine life, or strolling through sun-kissed city streets, GoPros are the perfect companion for any adventure.
GoPros are extremely durable, so can withstand harsh environments (even underwater with their waterproofing casing). They’re also lightweight, portable, and easily mounted on your person (for example, on your helmet or chest). And with excellent video stabilisation, they can make even the jumpiest action shots look smooth.
While the Hero 13 Black is GoPro’s latest (and probably best) offering, you can snag earlier models at a discounted price.
5. Best instant camera
Fujifilm Instax Mini 12
£69.97
Camera technology has come a long way in recent decades. But, for some of us, you can’t beat the simple pleasure of using an instant camera. With these, you can capture physical memories to share with friends or get creative with how you display them (this article from Squared has plenty of inspiration for projects).
The Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 is everything an instant camera should be. With an accurate viewfinder, autoexposure control, and slow sync flash (which helps capture a crisp subject with a slightly blurry background), they’re ideal for taking vintage-style portraits.
Plus, they’re simple to use and stylishly retro – with five pastel shades to choose from.
Final thoughts…
Whether you’re looking for a compact but affordable digital camera, or think your recipient would prefer an instant camera for a bit of vintage fun, we hope this quick guide has been helpful.
For more Christmas gift inspiration, why not check out our 2024 gift guide? Or take a look at our lists of the best headphones and beauty sets.
Are you inspired by any of the cameras on this list? Or do you have any suggestions of your own? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.