“Which camera shall I buy?”

DSLR, mirrorless, or stick with your phone?

The truth is, there isn’t a best camera. The right choice depends on your needs, your budget, and your enthusiasm for photography. For some people, the camera they already carry in their pocket – their mobile phone – is the best place to start. For others, stepping up to a DSLR or mirrorless system can open new creative doors.

Here’s how to think about the options. But we can’t stress enough – your photography is about what you ‘see’ and what you capture – not about your kit. It’s perfectly possible to have an incredible, prize-winning image taken on a phone, and a boring, poorly taken image from an expensive camera.

Why your phone may still be the best camera

Modern smartphones are remarkably capable cameras. Their sensors may be small, but advances in computational photography (things like night mode, portrait mode, and HDR) mean they can produce excellent results in most everyday situations.

If you’re new to photography, there’s nothing wrong with mastering your phone first. Learn to ‘see’ great photographs before worrying about gear. Once you start bumping into real limitations, you’ll know what you want from a dedicated camera.

  • It’s always with you: the best camera is the one you actually use, and phones win here
  • Simple to use: no confusing menus or settings (unless you’re happy to wander into your ‘pro’ settings) – just point and shoot
  • Great for sharing: instant editing and posting to social media without cables or extra software
  • Low cost: if you already own a decent phone, you don’t need to spend extra on kit right away
  • Edit your images in your phone using the software it comes with, or free downloadable apps.
  • Learning opportunity: composition, light, and timing are far more important than the size of the sensor. Many world-class images have been taken on mobile phones.

DSLR cameras

DSLRs (digital single-lens reflex) cameras were the standard choice for serious photographers for many years. They use a mirror and optical viewfinder, giving you a direct view through the lens.

Advantages of DSLRs

  • Wide choice of lenses and accessories: decades of availability, especially second-hand
  • Optical viewfinder: see the world directly, without lag or electronic display
  • Rugged and reliable: built for professionals as well as enthusiasts
  • Lower cost on the used market: with mirrorless becoming dominant, bargains can be found.

Disadvantages of DSLRs

  • Bulky and heavy: carrying one all day can be tiring, especially with larger lenses
  • Dated technology: autofocus and video performance often lag behind modern mirrorless
  • Fading support: many manufacturers are shifting resources to mirrorless systems.

DSLRs are still a good choice if you value an optical viewfinder, long battery life, or want truly excellent second-hand value (you can get so much more for your budget).

Mirrorless cameras

Mirrorless cameras are the newer standard. They remove the mirror and optical viewfinder, using electronic viewfinders and screens instead.

Advantages of mirrorless systems:

  • Smaller and lighter: more portable without the mirror box
  • Modern technology: faster autofocus, excellent video, and features like eye-tracking
  • WYSIWYG viewfinder: electronic viewfinders show you the image exactly as it will be captured, including exposure and colour
  • Silent shooting: many models can shoot without a mechanical shutter
  • Future-proof: manufacturers are investing heavily in mirrorless systems.

Disadvantages of mirrorless systems:

  • Battery life: usually shorter than DSLRs due to so much electronic display
  • Cost: often more expensive, especially for the latest lenses
  • Lens choice: while growing fast, the selection may not be as broad (though adaptors often solve this, so you can use DSLR lenses on a mirrorless – especially good for getting high-quality second-hand kit cheaper than mirrorless lenses).
  • Electronic feel: some photographers miss the direct optical view.

Mirrorless is the direction the industry is heading, and for many new photographers it offers the best balance of portability and advanced features.

So, which should you buy?

Here are a few guiding questions:

  • Are you just starting out and unsure how deep you want to go?
    Maybe stick with your mobile phone for now and focus on building your eye.
  • Do you want excellent value and don’t mind a larger, heavier camera?
    A used DSLR could be perfect, with plenty of lenses available.
  • Do you want the latest technology, portability, and future support?
    Go for a mirrorless system, but be ready to spend a bit more.

Buying second-hand equipment

If you’re looking for camera bodies, lenses, tripods, camera bags and more, check out these popular online stores which offer extensive ranges of second-hand equipment – much of it virtually new and still boxed. On each website, use the search box and filters to narrow down what you’re looking for – you can also call up and ask for advice (like, “Can you put together a starter kit with an entry-level DSLR and 2 versatile lenses for me? My budget’s about £xxx“)

Final word

A camera is just a tool. Great photos come from great photograpers, regardless of their equipment. Practice, patience, and learning to see light and composition are the key. And don’t forget the old expression: “All the gear, but no idea”!

If you know what you’re doing (or can commit to spending time learning), and if you’ve got the budget, go for a camera.

But if you’re new to photography, or short of money or time, there’s no rush. Use your phone until you hit its limits, then consider whether a DSLR or mirrorless camera fits your style, your budget, and your ambitions. And remember: every great photographer started somewhere.