Photography beginner? Discover a good digital single-lens reflex camera for beginners in 2025, compare the best models from back then, and read our recommendations for the future.
Single-lens reflex and DSLR cameras in 2025
Both single-lens reflex and DSLR cameras paved the way for the modern camera technology of mirrorless cameras that we use today. Single-lens reflex cameras used film for image storage with reflex mirror technology, whereas DSLRs used digital image format. However, both cameras used the shared technology of the reflex mirror system, where a mirror and a prism served as the viewfinder. DSLRs are, however, significantly more advanced than single-lens reflex cameras and feature digital sensors and storage capacity in digital media.
Both cameras served as learning platforms for beginners in the mid-20th century, but much has changed by 2025. Mirrorless cameras are standard and mainstream, but research and development focus more strongly on the same platform. Nevertheless, many enthusiasts still love a single-lens reflex camera. If you belong to them, these five cameras might be interesting for you, as they are all good digital single-lens reflex cameras for beginners in 2025.
Good single-lens reflex cameras for beginners in 2025
1. Beginners usually look for a camera that is sturdy, takes the best photos, and at the same time offers beginner-friendly features. That is why the Nikon FM2 tops this list, as it is built like a tank and requires students to master manual exposure from the start. This makes the camera a very good option for anyone who wants to build a solid foundation in photography. It is somewhat expensive: a used camera costs about 250 to 450 US dollars in 2025.
2. If you are old enough, you might remember the Pentax K1000, a very popular "university camera" back then. With a used price of about 150 to 250 US dollars in 2025, this legendary camera is a simple and ready-to-use option for casual photographers. Aperture, shutter speed, and ISO can be controlled, but only on a basic level.
3. The third camera is the Canon AE-1 Program, a personal favorite for 150 to 300 US dollars. It is considered the best learning single-lens reflex camera for beginners. The reason is the program AE mode, which allows automatic exposure while manual controls gradually enable more creative control.
4. The Minolta X-700 is also one of the best digital single-lens reflex cameras for beginners in 2025. The camera offers a lot of flexibility with its aperture priority, manual modes, and programs. Although it is a bulkier camera, this model is excellent for anyone looking for a solid entry into manual mode.
5. The Olympus OM-1 is a super lightweight option in 2025, ideal for beginners, and costs between 300 and 500 US dollars used (somewhat expensive). The camera offers an excellent viewfinder that especially helps beginners with manual focusing. In addition, it is very handy, as it is quite compact compared to other bulky single-lens reflex cameras on this list.
Single-lens reflex cameras and DSLRs lose importance in 2025
This even applies to cameras aimed at beginners, as newcomers want to learn the basics with mirrorless cameras. These cameras are much easier to use and deliver significantly better results thanks to their superior technology. In addition, the mainstream lenses of 2025 are mainly developed for mirrorless mounts, which sets these cameras apart from the competition. Enthusiasts, however, continue to use these cameras to learn manual mode or simply to get a nostalgic feeling.
If you ultimately decide on a modern mirrorless body, a powerful lens will significantly improve your final results. We recommend investing in a camera lens that is extremely bright, works excellently even in low light, and is affordable to capture portraits, weddings, portrait photos, and even professional videos.
Such a lens is the SIRUI AURORA Series 85mm F1.4 Full-frame Autofocus Lens. It was developed for modern mirrorless cameras with full frame and is compatible with all common camera mounts of 2025. It features an extremely bright aperture of f/1.4 and an ultra-quiet autofocus for photos and videos. The lens is also super light, weighing only 540 g, and is gentle on your wallet – an excellent choice for beginners in 2025.
Conclusion:
A good digital single-lens reflex camera for beginners is characterized by a sturdy body, solid manual controls, and a good price-performance ratio. If you switch to mirrorless cameras, choose the SIRUI Aurora lens to achieve professional results at an affordable price.
