Digital cameras: mirrorless cameras with interchangeable lenses (MILC), compact cameras and SLR kits that come with a lens. They suit anyone who wants better photos and video than a phone gives. Our range has over 250 models, including Canon, Sony, Panasonic, Kodak and AgfaPhoto.
How to choose a digital camera
Camera type. A compact camera is easy to carry and simple to use, but its lens cannot be changed. Mirrorless cameras (MILC) take interchangeable lenses and are usually smaller than SLRs, while SLR kits suit people who prefer an optical viewfinder. Our range includes many mirrorless models as well as compact cameras and SLR kits.
Body only or kit. A listing marked as body means the lens has to be bought separately. A beginner is usually better served by a kit with a general-purpose zoom lens, while someone who already owns lenses can simply buy the body. We stock both.
Sensor and ISO. A larger sensor generally records cleaner images in dim light, so its size matters more than the megapixel count. Most sensors in our range are CMOS, and some Sony models use Exmor R or Exmor RS CMOS sensors. The lowest ISO setting is most often 100, though some models go down to 50 or 80.
Video recording. Among models with listed specifications, 4K (3840 x 2160 pixels) is the most common maximum resolution. Cheaper cameras record Full HD, and a few reach 5.7K or even 8K. If you plan to film a lot, check for an external microphone socket and see how the image stabilisation works.
File formats and screen. Raw files keep more information than JPEG, which gives you much more room when editing. Many models support JPEG and Raw, some also HEIF and C-RAW, and the simplest save JPEG only. The screen is most often 3 inches (7.62 cm) across, with 2.4 and 3.5 inch screens also available.
Brands we carry
- Canon: one of the best-known camera makers, with both SLR and mirrorless models, and the maker of the C-RAW file format.
- Sony: known for its Exmor R and Exmor RS CMOS sensors and its mirrorless cameras.
- Panasonic: its Lumix mirrorless cameras are valued for their video recording features.
- Kodak, AgfaPhoto, Yashica: photography names that date back to the days of film cameras.
- Rollei: a German maker famous for its Rolleiflex medium format cameras.
- VTech: a maker of electronic products for children.
Also in our range: Easypix, Camp Snap and Canal Toys.
Frequently asked questions
Which camera should a beginner choose?
A beginner is usually best off with a compact camera or a mirrorless kit with a general-purpose lens. A compact is simpler and cheaper, while a mirrorless camera lets you change lenses later as your skills grow. If you buy a kit, make sure the lens is included and not just the body.
What is the difference between a mirrorless camera and an SLR?
A mirrorless camera has no mirror or optical viewfinder, so you see the image on the screen or in an electronic viewfinder. This usually makes it smaller and lighter. An SLR shows the scene through an optical viewfinder, and its body is generally larger.
Is a camera better than a phone?
A camera with a larger sensor and interchangeable lenses usually does better than a phone in low light and with distant subjects. A phone is more convenient because you always have it with you. If you want to control exposure and shoot Raw, a camera is the better option.
Is it worth shooting in Raw?
Yes, if you plan to edit your photos on a computer. A Raw file keeps more detail in highlights and shadows than a JPEG, so exposure and colour can be corrected without a visible loss of quality. Raw files take up more space on the memory card, and simpler cameras may not support the format.
