I actually have a thread in here from a few days ago that got a fair bit of recommendations— a lot of good ones that made me think. My budget and requirements were the same as yours. I ended up pulling the trigger on a used Olympus E-M10 mark ii, paired with a Panasonic 12-32mm, and a Panasonic Leica 25mm f1.4. I plan to be adding a Panasonic 20mm f1.7 II or the Olympus 17mm f1.8 in the future if I feel the 25mm doesn’t serve me well enough. Of the lenses are especially pancake style, except for the Panaleica 25mm, but for what it is I feel it’s a good size and weight with IQ justifying a small cross body bag. I was able to come in more than $200 under budget with this setup (I could have come in right on budget if I went with a used mk iv, but I prefer the extra customization and metal build on the mk ii for the trade off of a lower resolution sensor). Other accessories I picked up were 2x 128gb SD cards, 2x spare batteries and a charger, and a cross body bag. I plan on the camera being an every day camera and travel camera, and I don’t shoot typically over 50mm focal length. I will probably add the 45-150mm R in the near future, however. I am taking a trip next month, so I’ll figure all of that out during the trip. Other cameras I was looking at: Fujifilm X-T4, Canon R50, Nikon Z50ii, OM-5 mk i, E-M10 mk iv (new with 14-45 kit lens), and a used Olympus E-M1 mk ii (this would be my ultimate recommendation if you want to lean towards small bag and is almost what I bought). Ultimately, I wanted something a little cheaper that I wouldn’t be upset about and I could invest more in lenses offering a m43 upgrade path in the future. And I wanted something small and discreet I could slap on something like 20mm f1.7 and not draw too much attention. Panasonic GX-85 would be another recommendation, as it was also another heavy contender. M43 is definitely the king of small cameras, small lenses, and good IQ. Answer from tsmkirby on reddit.com
🌐
Reddit
reddit.com › r/cameras › best first camera under $1200 in 2025?
r/Cameras on Reddit: Best First camera under $1200 in 2025?
December 2, 2025 -
  • Budget: $1200 (for body/lens/accessories)

  • Country: Japan

  • Condition: New or used

  • Type of Camera: Mirrorless or point and shoot

  • Intended use: Photography

  • If photography; what style: landscape, portrait, street

  • What features do you absolutely need: I never owned any camera, so Idk what features would be absolutely necessary

  • What features would be nice to have: I don't have

  • Portability: Pocketable, small bag. To be usable day by day or while travelling

  • Cameras you're considering: I saw recommendations for: Fujifilm X100VI, Sony ZV-E10 II or I, FujiFilm XM-5, Sony A6000. I'm considering small cameras, so if possible I would like to use small lenses too.

  • Cameras you already have: I don't have.

  • Notes: I'm gonna use this camera just for hobby, as I'm getting interested in photographing. I don't have any camera background, so if possible I would like recommendation for lenses and accessories too.

UPDATE: I have settled with buying a Nikon Z5 II! It's not that portable and it is heavy, but it does give the versatility of being Full Frame, having IBIS, which is what I was looking for to be able to take photos at night with more ease. And it also have the Nikon Imaging Recipe, which will be really useful in case I don't get the vibe of photo editing :). Thx for the suggestions 🙏

Top answer
1 of 19
9
I actually have a thread in here from a few days ago that got a fair bit of recommendations— a lot of good ones that made me think. My budget and requirements were the same as yours. I ended up pulling the trigger on a used Olympus E-M10 mark ii, paired with a Panasonic 12-32mm, and a Panasonic Leica 25mm f1.4. I plan to be adding a Panasonic 20mm f1.7 II or the Olympus 17mm f1.8 in the future if I feel the 25mm doesn’t serve me well enough. Of the lenses are especially pancake style, except for the Panaleica 25mm, but for what it is I feel it’s a good size and weight with IQ justifying a small cross body bag. I was able to come in more than $200 under budget with this setup (I could have come in right on budget if I went with a used mk iv, but I prefer the extra customization and metal build on the mk ii for the trade off of a lower resolution sensor). Other accessories I picked up were 2x 128gb SD cards, 2x spare batteries and a charger, and a cross body bag. I plan on the camera being an every day camera and travel camera, and I don’t shoot typically over 50mm focal length. I will probably add the 45-150mm R in the near future, however. I am taking a trip next month, so I’ll figure all of that out during the trip. Other cameras I was looking at: Fujifilm X-T4, Canon R50, Nikon Z50ii, OM-5 mk i, E-M10 mk iv (new with 14-45 kit lens), and a used Olympus E-M1 mk ii (this would be my ultimate recommendation if you want to lean towards small bag and is almost what I bought). Ultimately, I wanted something a little cheaper that I wouldn’t be upset about and I could invest more in lenses offering a m43 upgrade path in the future. And I wanted something small and discreet I could slap on something like 20mm f1.7 and not draw too much attention. Panasonic GX-85 would be another recommendation, as it was also another heavy contender. M43 is definitely the king of small cameras, small lenses, and good IQ.
2 of 19
7
I also forgot to add, being that you’re located in Japan, check a lot of the 2nd hand camera stores. There are a lot of fantastic bargains to be found if you get lucky. I’ll also add, I based my recommendations on what subject I plan to photograph. Without knowing your intended subjects it will be hard to recommend cameras and lenses. However, if you are like me, and it seems like you might be, the majority of my subjects would be street/candid, architecture, and candid portraits of family/vacation memories. This guided me towards staying toward the wide end of standard focal length and is why I went with the 12-32 kit lens from Panasonic instead of the Olympus 14-45. 24mm equivalent focal length will be used by me a lot more than 28mm. I’m a huge fan of 35mm/40mm and 50mm. I like 80-100mm as well, but I rarely use them. And considering I will be mostly walking and taking photos, I opted for discreetness and zooming with my feet over a larger telephoto option. This also keeps my bag a little more compact. Again I can’t recommend M43 enough for fitting the needs of a high IQ travel camera mainly because of the lens options and price on the used market.
🌐
Reddit
reddit.com › r/askphotography › a good camera for $1200
r/AskPhotography on Reddit: A good camera for $1200
June 16, 2022 -

Hey guys! I want to buy a camera mainly for travel photography, so that would include Landscape + Portraits.

I thought about buying the Sony A7R III, but I would rather get something cheaper and get a good 24-70mm lens to pair with it. So I was thinking about spending somewhere around the $1200 range on the camera body. What would you guys recommend?

I don't really have a preference between Sony/Canon/Fuji, only thing is that I would prefer Full-frame sensors.

🌐
Reddit
reddit.com › r/cinematography › what camera setup for under $1200 used?
r/cinematography on Reddit: What Camera Setup for under $1200 used?
August 19, 2025 -

I keep going back and forth.

My use case, preferably one compact travel lens + cam nfor my 1.5 months in Europe - shooting a lil bit of everything Landscape / Mts. / street / portraits - for video mainly stills with occasional vlogs - good enough for stable hand footy shots.

The cheapest options I have is the X-S10 & kit lens 18-55mm - love the colors of Fuji but I’m worried about the auto focus

The only other options I could find is Sony a6600 w/ Sigma 18 - 50mm 2.8 - I do like Sony but im worried the image won’t look as sharp as the 6700 like noticeably as not sharp.

What do u guys think? Do yall have any suggestions ?

🌐
Reddit
reddit.com › r/cameras › best beginner camera under £1200 for photo + video (considering fujifilm)
r/Cameras on Reddit: Best beginner camera under £1200 for photo + video (considering Fujifilm)
April 19, 2026 -

Budget: £1200

Country: UK

Condition: New or used (prefer best value)

Type of Camera: Mirrorless (open to suggestions)

Intended use:

Everyday use, vlogging, cinematic video, and photography while on the move

If photography; what style:

Street, lifestyle, casual everyday shots. I like natural-looking photos straight out of camera with minimal editing

If video what style:

Vlogs + cinematic clips (nothing too advanced, but good quality and smooth footage)

What features do you absolutely need:

Good photo quality

Good video quality

Easy and quick to use (don’t want to miss moments)

Reliable autofocus

Prefer physical dials (ISO/shutter/exposure) over touchscreen-heavy systems

Portability:

Very important – I want something easy to carry around all day and quickly take out to shoot

Cameras you’re considering:

Fujifilm cameras (not sure which model yet)

Cameras you already have:

DJI Osmo Pocket 3

Notes:

I currently use the Osmo Pocket 3, and while it’s great for cinematic video and vlogs, I don’t find it practical as an everyday camera. The photo quality isn’t great, and it’s inconvenient to use on the go — I have to flip the screen and wait for the gimbal to calibrate every time. It’s also not easy to quickly take out and store when moving around throughout the day.

I’m really interested in Fujifilm because of the physical dials and the natural look of the photos, but I’m not sure how strong they are for video.

Ideally, I want something that can do both photo and video well.

If you were in my position, what would you recommend?

🌐
Reddit
reddit.com › r/cinematography › which camera&lens to get for below 1200$?
r/cinematography on Reddit: Which camera&lens to get for below 1200$?
October 12, 2023 -

Hello, I'm studying cinematography and I'm to create, shoot and edit a music video.

I really like this one right here by Doggystyleeee: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Deyto6qF9g&ab_channel=Voice2HardMusic%26FilmProductions SKIP TO 00:39.

I was wondering what lens is used here since i could not find any additional information in the description. Features i want: 4K30/60FPS, auto focus. Experience level: Intermediate. Budget:$1200 What I have chosen: Canon R10 along with a Canon RF16mm F2.8 STM Lens.

Is this good enough for music videos? or should I get a 28mm? I'm really a newbie when it comes to this, any help / suggestions would be amazing! Maybe there's a better camera and lens option? THANKS

🌐
Reddit
reddit.com › r/askphotography › best camera + lens under £1200 for sport and nature
r/AskPhotography on Reddit: Best Camera + lens under £1200 for sport and nature
November 14, 2023 - Hey guys, I’m looking to buy my first camera soon. I want to shoot sport mostly as a hobby. I have a budget. I’m looking at the Sony a6400 and lens options as 18-135 f3.5-5.6 or a 50mm F 2.8 prime. Im aware neither are best sport lenses but just options as they fall in my range.
🌐
Reddit
reddit.com › r/cameras › best mirrorless setup under $1200 for photography?
r/Cameras on Reddit: Best Mirrorless setup under $1200 for photography?
May 11, 2022 -

I'm looking for the best body and lens for under $1200 thats the most suitable for photography. Looking for lenses with minimum f/2.8 aperture. I love the Fuji X-S10 but it's a tad bit expensive. What body + lenses do you guys recommend. Considering buying used as well.

Find elsewhere
🌐
Reddit
reddit.com › r/videography › $1200~ camera for studio videography that is better than t7i?
r/videography on Reddit: $1200~ camera for studio videography that is better than T7i?
June 30, 2024 -

Hi, newbie here looking for a camera for Youtube. My content is journalism so I'll be talking in front of the camera, usually about 30 mins. I shoot in an indoor setup, I have two LED photography light, one floor lamp, and ceiling light for lighting. For audio I use a 3.5mm lav mic.

I need to use a teleprompter but the one I have won't work with my iPhone, so I'm looking for a camera. I've borrowed a few times a Canon T7i and T7, but the video looks average, there was some static noise in my lav mic audio, and the recording automatically stops sometimes. So I'm looking for anything better than that.

My budget is USD1200, including lens. I don't mind used if I get better value.

Here is what I'm looking for:

  • 4K video

  • preferably chargeable through cable while using, or at least I don't need to take off the tripod plate to replace battery

  • 3.5mm mic input

  • doesn't automatically stop recording at about 12mins without letting me know

  • I want to add more contrast into my setup, so good dynamic range

Currently, I'm considering Sony ZVE10 and Canon R50 (both kit).

Any suggestions on camera or lens will help, thanks a lot.

🌐
Reddit
reddit.com › r/cameras › mirrorless camera recommendations with lens under $1200
r/Cameras on Reddit: Mirrorless Camera Recommendations with Lens Under $1200
July 17, 2024 -

Looking for camera recommendations with lens under ~$1200. Some models I have come across:

Nikon Z5
Sony A7R II/III

Looking for full frame sensors, and mostly shooting landscapes, city shots, and possibly start astro photography. Not really interested in portraits or shooting people.

Want to start off with one decent lens, kind of a do it all one. Maybe then later look into a zoom lens. Maybe even macro one too later down the road.

Another helpful tip would be where are good sites for used camera gear. Been looking at ebay and marketplace, but would love some dedicated sites too.

Thanks for all your help and recommendations!

🌐
Reddit
reddit.com › r/cameras › i am looking for a good camera setup for around €1200 as a christmas present for my mother. i have no experience with cameras and neither does my mother. please help me🥲📷
r/Cameras on Reddit: I am looking for a good camera setup for around €1200 as a Christmas present for my mother. I have no experience with cameras and neither does my mother. Please help me🥲📷
November 3, 2022 - I don’t own this, but it’s a wicked camera/setup. A very solid option that fits the price. A little hipster though. ... Get her a Fuji X100. ... The Canon M50 will take great photos for about €450, in my opinion €1200 is too overkill for a beginner.
🌐
Reddit
reddit.com › r/cameras › beginner help (budget $1200)
Beginner Help (Budget $1200) : r/Cameras
July 22, 2023 - I would advise against a t3i (600d) or t7i (800d) and an a6400 but if you want cheap lenses I think a Nikon d7x00/d610 would be best having a focus screw and being semi pro body’s you won’t need to upgrade in a while with some pros using them today. The benefit of mirorless cameras is the ...
🌐
Reddit
reddit.com › r/videography › looking to buy a mirrorless camera for $1200 or less
Looking to buy a mirrorless camera for $1200 or less : r/videography
July 1, 2022 - I picked up a mirrorless Canon a couple years back. I was going from a 20D, full manual control body that was 8mp I think. The new one is 16 or 20mp so I had no problem buying a camera body that was a generation behind current.
🌐
Reddit
reddit.com › r/cameras › best mirrorless camera under 1000$ for beginner?
r/Cameras on Reddit: Best mirrorless camera under 1000$ for beginner?
September 4, 2024 -

Hello, I want to buy my first mirrorless camera for traveling.

My point is to take picture of people and views.

I used to use film camera (olympus om1), but now film is so expensive.

What should be my first mirrorless camera under 1000$ ?

🌐
Reddit
reddit.com › r › AskPhotography › comments › pgolan › looking_for_wellrounded_camera_1200_usd_budget
r/AskPhotography - Looking for Well-Rounded Camera, ~$1200 USD budget
September 2, 2021 -

Hi there,

I'm relatively new to photography & looking to get my first proper camera.There are several areas of photography which interest me, so I assume what I'd be looking for is something well-rounded to cover the various interests.

In order of importance, what I'm looking to shoot:

  1. Nature - particularly, time lapses, especially holy grail timelapses (not sure if there's a camera that's going to serve this best, or if anything will do with an intervalometer)

  2. Night sky / star photography

  3. People / portraits

  4. Action sports (least important, willing to sacrifice on this for the others if something is going to be much better suited towards the others)

I'm hoping there's something I can find around or under the $1200 USD price-point - any recommendations would be much appreciated!

If $1200 is unreasonable for the type of photography I'd like to do, I'm willing to wait longer to save up more as well - so I'm open to all suggestions.I'd also be interested to know what might be the best of the best for what I want to do, regardless of pricepoint.

Thank you so much in advanced for anybody taking the time to read this and offer suggestions!

Top answer
1 of 2
2

Most of these are going to have less to do with the camera and more the lenses you're using, which will drive costs up rapidly.

Given you're looking for pretty much everything, especially sports, my advice would be to go for a pro-sumer APS-C DSLR + 18-55 and 70-300mm VR kit. I would avoid mirrorless cameras other than the higher end Sony ones or e.g. an R5.

If action/sports isn't all that important, pretty much any modern camera will do. Try them out see what works for you.

I shoot Nikon, so the Z50 + 16-50 and 50-250 kit lenses would be my recommendation, or the D7500/D7200 + 18-55 and 70-300mm VR kit. Great for Nature, acceptable for star photography (will be lens limited and for best results should get an FTZ and a fast F mount lens), great for people/portraits, and will be okay-ish for action sports (lens limited and AF limited). A D5600 or similar would likely be fine, though not as good for action from a continuous burst and AF perspective, but the extra money would free up the possibility of buying better glass which could counter-balance that.

Canon, Sony, and Fuji also make cameras that will do just fine for that set. Try them out and narrow the field.

2 of 2
2

Here's my suggestion. Get the Nikon Z 50 kit with 2 lenses, that will cover everything you want to shoot for $1200, except for astro, it's going to be hard with slower lenses. After you're more comfortable shooting with those lenses, I would then look into these lenses from Viltrox. I don't know much about them, but if the reviews look good, this seems like a fantastic addition to the other 2 zoom lenses that come with Z 50 kit. This would allow you to get some fantastic portraits with the 56mm, and the 23mm would be great for astro landscapes. The 33mm would be a general purpose fast lens.

🌐
Reddit
reddit.com › r/askphotography › new dad here, best camera and portrait lens advice for $1200 budget?
r/AskPhotography on Reddit: New dad here, best camera and portrait lens advice for $1200 budget?
June 22, 2025 -

Hello all! I am brand new to photography. I just had a brand new baby boy and I am very interested in taking consistent portraits of him as he grows up. To that end I wanted to get a mirrorless camera and a lens for portraits and my original research suggests that for ~1200 I can get a Sony ZVE-10 and pair it with a Sigma 56mm f1.4 lens. I also like the video features of this camera and I feel like it is versatile for more than the officially stated purpose of portrait shots. I’ve also seen the ZVE-10 ii with a 16-50mm f3.5-5.6 kit lens for around the same money. I have a 35,000 foot view on what f-stop, focal length, iso, apsc and aperture all mean but before I made a purchase decision, I thought I might ask the advice of some people who know what they’re doing on the topic. Thank you so much in advance!

Top answer
1 of 2
1
First option will be better (zv-e10 + Sigma 56mm f1.4) - but ~30mm prime might be more suitable for your use Remember that lenses are equally important to the image produced (and in portraits it's especially pronounced) If you want viewfinder you can also consider a6100 (practically zv-e10 with viewfinder and different screen movement) or a6400 (a6100 with metal build and some weather sealing) - in any case good lens will be really important The 2nd option to consider is 2nd hand Sony a7iii + viltrox 50mm f2 Air (better image quality but worse AF and video capabilities)
2 of 2
1
As a parent who tries to capture a lot of family pictures using Sony apec systems, I’ll throw out a few considerations. For reference, I have both an a6400 and a6700. Sigma 56. I have this lens and it’s very sharp and gets great images. If you’re using it around the house, it’s going to be a pretty tight focal length to work with. I only use it outdoors when I have some more room to work with. Great lens though. I’ve never had a body without a view finder. The back screens on both my bodies are great, but I would say I’m using the view finder 80% of the time. If you’re outdoors, it really helps with glare. I think I would miss not having it if you went with the ZV body. As your research gear there is going to be a ton of information and terms thrown out there. For portraits especially you’re going to read a lot about bokeh and its relationship to aperture. This is that subject separation/blurred background topic. For a great kit all around kit, that I’ve found can do good lifestyle shots of the family, with a very versatile focal length, my recommendation would be looking into the sigma 18-50 f/2.8 with a Sony apsc body. I think with some diligent shopping around you’d be able to fit an a6400 body with this lens in your budget.
🌐
Reddit
reddit.com › r/photography › best camera between $1200-1500
r/photography on Reddit: Best camera between $1200-1500
July 13, 2015 -

Hey guys I'm looking for the best camera between the price range, I'm shooting portraits as well as landscapes and I really want to get into astrophotography, I was looking at the Nikon D7200, does anyone recommend this camera or have this camera and can tell me about it?? If not what other camera is good for that price ...thank you !