Canon has built a lineup of powerful and high-end professional cameras and legendary glass. And now that we’re all overwhelmingly creating from home, Canon’s mid-range and entry-level mirrorless, DSLR, and point-and-shoot cameras are perfect options for the work-from-home creative. Or for those who are looking to launch their creative careers.
Here, we’ve compiled the best beginner cameras by Canon — including mirrorless, DSLR, and point-and-shoot options. All of them are great content creator cameras with fantastic features that make creating engaging photo and video content a breeze.
What Cameras Do Content Creators Use?
High-quality content creation requires a robust camera capable of recording HD or 4K video, capturing sound internally or through plug-in microphones, and a simple to use menu system. The more flexible the camera, the better prepared you are to create anything you can dream up!
If you’re interested in a range of content creation styles, it helps to know that your chosen camera can handle video and still photography with the same quality. Fortunately, most of the best cameras for vlogging are competitive for their still photography specifications as well.
Why content creators prefer Canon
Content creators looking for the best beginner cameras regularly gravitate towards Canon cameras. Canon offers a robust collection of interchangeable lens cameras like DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, as well as a few point-and-shoot cameras that are as functional for content creation and vlogging as they are easy to use.
Mirrorless and DSLR cameras are often ideal for most content creators because you can expand their capabilities in the future with new lenses, microphones, and other artistic and functional accessories.
Whether you’re exploring simple point-and-shoot starter cameras, or DSLRs that will grow with you as your skills expand, all of the following Canon cameras have earned their slot on the list of best cameras for content creation.
Best Canon Mirrorless Cameras:
Canon EOS R7
The new Canon EOS R7 mirrorless APS-C camera was released with the Canon EOS R10 last month, and might just be one of the best Canon cameras for beginners. Its 32.5 Megapixel (APS-C) CMOS sensor provides outstanding image quality and it also shoots 4K video at 60 fps. Combine that with 5-axis in-body image stabilization, a 15fps mechanical shutter, and a 30fps electronic shutter, along with a plethora of other features, and you have a fantastic content creation camera at a starter Canon camera price.
Key Specifications:
- 32.5 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) Sensor
- Digic X Image Processor
- Canon EF and EF-S Lens Mount
- Continuous shooting at 15 frames per second, mechanical shutter, and 30 frames per second, electronic shutter
- 4K Video recording up to 60 fps and Smart Shoe integration
- 5-axis In-body Image Stabilization with auto-level technology
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF
- 3” Articulating Touchscreen LCD (1.04m dots)
- Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth
- Lightweight and compact design
- Compatibility with full range of Canon RF-S, RF, EF, EF-S mounts (with the optional Mount Adapter EF-EOS R)
- Lens bundles available: 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens
Canon EOS R10
The Canon EOS R10 is a solid all-round APS-C mirrorless camera. It provides fantastic image quality, a 24.2 Megapixel CMOS APS-C sensor, and the ability to shoot 4K 60fps video. This lightweight and compact camera is packed with features, all at a great price point for beginners. It even shoots photos at 15 frames per second, which is blazing fast for a camera at this price point.
If you’re looking for a great starter Canon camera, the EOS R10 is a fantastic choice and one of the better Canon cameras for beginners.
Key Specifications:
- 24.2 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) Sensor
- Digic X Image Processor
- Canon EF and EF-S Lens Mount
- Continuous shooting at 15 frames per second, mechanical shutter
- 4K Video recording up to 60 fps
- Image Stabilization at up to 4 Stops of Shake Correction
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF
- 3” Articulating Touchscreen LCD (1.04m dots)
- Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth
- Lightweight and compact design
- Compatibility with full range of Canon RF-S, RF, EF, EF-S mounts (with the optional Mount Adapter EF-EOS R)
- Lens bundles available: 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens, 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens
Canon EOS M6 Mark II
The Canon EOS M6 Mark II is another fantastic compact content creation camera, and is found in Canon’s M series line up. It provides great image quality and video quality with a 32.5MP (APS-C) CMOS sensor and the ability to shoot UHD 4K 30p footage. Other features like Raw Burst mode and Touch & Drag AF makes this camera an intriguing choice for beginner content creators who appreciate the portability, size, and performance of Canon’s M series lineup.
Key Specifications:
- 32.5 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) Sensor
- DIGIC 8 Image Processor
- UHD 4K30p & Full HD 120p Video Recording
- 3.0″ 1.04m-Dot Tilting Touchscreen LCD
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF Systems
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- Raw Burst Mode
- Touch & Drag AF
- Lens bundles available: 15-45mm IS STM Lens, 18-150mm IS STM Lens
Canon EOS RP
The Canon EOS RP has become a popular choice for content creators thanks to its full-frame capabilities, compact size, and mirrorless design. It’s a small and light full-frame camera but still packs a punch with a 26.2MP CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8 image processor. It all allows for a fantastic ISO range of 100-40,000, making it shine in low-light conditions.
The EOS RP also shoots UHD 4K resolution video, sports a useful Vari-angle Touchscreen LCD for shooting vlogs or video content at home, and its Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus mean it will have fast, accurate focusing capabilities, no matter what you are filming.
The EOS RP is one of the best beginner cameras to pick up for content creation at home. It can grow with you and be a reliable companion on future travels and adventures to come. Plus, check out our full list of the best lenses for the Canon EOS RP to get started.
Check out my full hands-on review of the Canon EOS RP.
Key Specifications:
- 27MP Full Frame CMOS Sensor
- Digic 8 Image Processor
- Canon RF Lens Mount
- Continuous shooting of up to 5 frames per second
- 5 Way Digital Image Stabilization
- 4K Video recording at 25 fps
- 3” Rear Swivel Touchscreen LCD (1.04m dots)
- OLED color electronic viewfinder (2.3m dots)
- Manual and automatic settings
- ⅛” microphone line in
- Weighs 1.07lbs (0.49kg)
- Lens bundles available: 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM Lens
Canon EOS M50 Mark II
The new Canon EOS M50 Mark II (a successor to the Canon EOS M50) is part of Canon fantastic M Series. It’s a competitive option for content creators who want compact, powerful cameras that work at home or on the road.
The reason why the EOS M50 Mark II debuted to such excitement is that it is the best beginner camera for at-home work. Among the top cameras for vlogging or making videos for your social media channels, the M50 Mark II has you covered. It delivers high-resolution 4K UHD 24p video and a Vari-angle Touchscreen LCD for multi-angled viewing and filming.
If you’re taking photos at home, the M50 Mark II will also deliver. With a 24.1 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, with a vivid built-in electronic viewfinder, you can take stunning pictures as well. The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is truly a fantastic mirrorless APS-C camera that packs tons of performance features into a compact camera design.
See the Canon EOS M50 Mark II in action in this first-look review by Canon Explorer of Light Vanessa Joy.
Key Specifications:
- 24MP APS-C Crop CMOS Sensor
- Digic 8 Image Processor
- Canon EF-M Lens Mount
- Continuous shooting of up to 10 frames per second
- 5 Way Digital Image Stabilization (Video Only)
- 4K Video recording at 24 fps
- 3” Articulating Touchscreen LCD (1.04m dots)
- Color electronic viewfinder (2.3m dots)
- Manual and automatic settings
- ⅛” microphone line in
- Weighs 13.7 oz (387g)
- Lens bundles available: EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens, EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM and EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens, and Content Creator Kit.
Canon EOS M200
The EOS M200 is another fantastic mirrorless APS-C camera in the Canon M Series lineup. It also comes in a creator kit with a tripod grip and the EF-M 15-45mm Lens, so it may be the best camera for content creation right out of the box.
Vertical videos have taken the world by storm on platforms like IGTV and TikTok, and the EOS M200 is a perfect tool to create stunning content that can seamlessly be shared on social media. The EOS M200 features 4K 24p/25p video capabilities and vertical video support. It also has a 24.1 megapixel CMOS APS-C sensor with Eye Detection AF and Dual Pixel CMOS AF. You can create fantastic photo and video content, while having autofocus that is fast and accurate, so you don’t miss the shot.
Finally, the EOS M200 has a Self Portrait Mode and 3.0-inch tilt-type LCD screen that rotates at a 180° angle for the perfect angle. It allows you to create content you can share online anytime, with built-in Bluetooth and WiFi. The EOS M200 is a great compact M-series camera that was built for social media content.
Key Specifications:
- 24MP APS-C Crop CMOS Sensor
- Digic 8 Image Processor
- Canon EF-M Lens Mount
- Continuous shooting of up to 6.1 frames per second
- 4K Video recording at 24 fps
- 3” 180 degree tilting touchscreen LCD (1.04m dots)
- Built-in microphone
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Weighs 4.59 oz (130g)
- Lens bundles available: EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens, Creator Kit with EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens.
Best Canon DSLR Cameras:
Canon EOS 90D
For enthusiast photographers and content creators who prefer a DSLR full-frame option, the EOS 90D is one of the newest offerings from Canon. It’s also one of the best enthusiast level cameras on the market. This camera is built for portraits, weddings, sports, wildlife photography, and more. It can handle any content you want to create while at home.
When it comes to photography, the EOS 90D offers powerful features like continuous shooting at 10 fps, a 32.5 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, and Canon’s new Digic 8 Image Processor, which produces amazing image stills.
For video, the EOS 90D shoots uncropped 4K30fps and features a Vari-angle Touchscreen LCD so it’s among Canon’s best cameras for vlogging. It also has a 45-point cross-type AF and Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Eye Detection. Your content, created from home or anywhere, is in focus and sharp, every time.
Key Specifications:
- 32.5MP APS-C Crop CMOS Sensor
- Digic 8 Image Processor
- Canon EF-S Lens Mount
- Continuous shooting of up to 10 frames per second
- Digital Image Stabilization (Video Only)
- 4K Video recording up to 30 fps
- 3” Articulating Touchscreen LCD (1.04m dots)
- Manual and automatic settings
- ⅛” microphone line in
- Weighs 1.54 lbs (701g)
- Lens bundles available: EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Lens
Canon EOS Rebel SL3
The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is one of the best beginner cameras in the DLSR category and has more than enough features for the new photographer or content creator. The Rebel SL3 features a 24.1 megapixel CMOS APS-C sensor and fast, accurate Dual Pixel CMOS AF. Beginners can capture beautiful images easily and hardly miss a quick moment.
The Rebel SL3 was also built with a Vari-angle Touchscreen LCD, perfect for vlogging or shooting at different angles. The SL3 also shoots 4K video and 4K time-lapse movies. With the built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, you can connect to a phone and share on social media.
It might be a beginner DSLR, but the Rebel SL3 is the perfect solution for young creatives just getting started.
Learn more about the camera in Allyson Berger’s first look review and video.
Key Specifications:
- 24.2MP APS-C Crop CMOS Sensor
- Digic 8 Image Processor
- Canon EF and EF-S Lens Mount
- Continuous shooting of up to 5 frames per second
- 4K Video recording up to 24 fps
- 3” Articulating Touchscreen LCD (1.04m dots)
- Manual and automatic settings
- Weighs 15.98 oz (453.02g)
- Lens bundles available: EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM Lens
Best Canon Point-and-Shoot Camera:
Powershot G7 X Mark III
The best point and shoot cameras offer a perfect, compact option for creating content from home, or anywhere. The Canon Powershot G7 X Mark III features a continuous shooting at 20 fps, as well as a 20.1 Megapixel 1.0″ Stacked CMOS Sensor and DIGIC 8 Image Processor. In addition, the 4.2x Optical Zoom Lens (24-100mm f/1.8-2.8) with Optical Image Stabilizer allows users to zoom in or out with serious control and without swapping lenses constantly.
The Powershot G7 X Mark III has several video options that make this a fantastic camera for creatives. This tiny point-and-shoot captures video at 4K 30p and FHD at 120p — a fantastic quality for its size. The Powershot G7 X Mark III also includes a 3.0-inch Touch Panel LCD Screen that tilts 180° for selfies and vlogging. And it has Bluetooth and WiFi for easy content sharing. Plus, enjoy an external microphone input for maximum audio quality in your videos.
In addition to its compact size, the Powershot G7 X Mark III has USB charging capabilities, so you can leave the batteries behind. All in all, the Powershot G7 X Mark III is a fantastic option for creatives. It’s a powerful, compact, and reliable companion for shooting at home or anywhere life takes you.
Key Specifications:
- 20.1MP 1” stacked CMOS Sensor
- Digic 8 Image Processor
- 4.2x Optical Zoom Lens (24-100mm, f/1.8-2.8)
- Continuous shooting of up to 20 frames per second
- 4K Video recording up to 30 fps
- 3” Articulating Touchscreen LCD (1.04m dots)
- External microphone support
- Manual and automatic settings
- Weighs 10.7 oz (303.34g)
What to look for in a beginner content camera
If you are a content creator looking for a beginner Canon camera, here are some features that you should look into when making your decision:
- Manual mode: You want a camera with the ability to shoot and learn in Manual mode, so you can learn how to adjust and fine-tune settings like shutter speed, aperture, and IOS, to increase or decrease your camera exposure. This is crucial for learning how to create both photos and videos.
- Image quality: Look for a camera with better image quality than your phone. Overall, 20 megapixels is a good benchmark.
- Video modes: The ability to shoot 4K and UHD video, uncropped is preferred.
- Autofocus: You want fast and accurate autofocus, with eye or face detection.
- Low light performance: Your camera should have solid low light performance so you can create content throughout the day.
- Lens options: Choose a camera body built for interchangeable lenses so you can invest in different lenses for different types of content
- Flip-out display: A flipping or tilting back touchscreen display is a great feature if you’re thinking of vlogging or other content in front of a camera.
- Build: Go for a light and compact build
- Sensor size: Invest in an APS-C or full-frame mirrorless camera, depending on your budget
How Do I Get Started With Content Creation?
The best way to get started with content creation is to first decide what kind of content inspires you. Do you enjoy watching DIY furniture makeovers? Are you a talented home baker? Do you have a passion for makeup tutorials? Are you an extreme sports enthusiast with a love for adrenaline?
Most content creators start developing their own work by determining what kind of content they think is missing from the scene, or by realizing that they can improve on what’s already out there.
How to Choose a Niche
The most effective content for helping you build an audience will relate directly to your passions and interests. It’s also a good idea not to try to do too many things. Audiences want to know what kind of content they can expect from your content streams.
By establishing a set type of content and building your own unique style, you can continue to amass an excited audience with each new video or tutorial you release.
When you’re honing your content creation plan, it’s wise to put most of your energy into a single platform at first and then build up others later. TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube are all great options, but eventually you may want to branch into having channels everywhere you can!
What Skills Does a Content Creator Need?
Most content creators need to have a wide range of skills. First, you’ll need some sort of skill that you’ll demonstrate for your audience like baking, skateboarding, drawing, interviewing for podcasts, or reviewing movies. But you’ll also need behind-the-scenes skills.
Graphic Design
Graphic design and art design are both very important skills. The best content streams have a consistent look, so it’s a good idea to decide what colors, filters, fonts, and styles you prefer and stick to them.
Videography
Videography and photography are also important skills to cultivate. Shaky video, misaligned audio, and poorly focused images are common mistakes to avoid. By practicing with starter cameras, content creators can improve the quality of their content to attract bigger audiences. Make sure you invest in camera and audio gear that will support your interests as you grow as a creator.
Know Your Platform
Content creators will also need to know their platforms in detail to make the most of content and audience attention. Fortunately we’ve already assembled some how-to articles to help you in starting a YouTube channel, launching an Instagram page, beginning podcasting, and even vlogs. With some hard work and original content, you may even be able to collect advertising revenue or enjoy some collaborations with top brands. Good luck!
