Do you dream of taking amazing photos, but feel lost in the world of cameras? You see beautiful pictures online and want to create your own. But then you look at camera stores, and suddenly everything feels complicated. So many buttons, so many numbers, and so many different names!
Choosing your very first camera, an “amateur” camera as some call it, can be frustrating. You want something easy to use but good enough to grow with. You worry about spending too much money on features you don’t need, or buying something too simple that you quickly outgrow. That confusion stops right here.
This post will cut through the jargon. We will explain exactly what you need to know to pick the perfect starter camera for your budget and goals. You will learn the must-have features and avoid common mistakes.
Ready to stop wondering and start shooting brilliant pictures? Let’s dive into finding the best camera that fits you perfectly.
Top Ameture Camera Recommendations
- 1080P PAN, TILT, ZOOM WIFI CAMERA – Live streaming 1080p @30fps video. Remotely pan, tilt and zoom (PTZ) from the app or set it to auto-track and detect humans in AI mode. Built-in hardware based AI chipset with human detection function (does not rely on cloud). Records to microSD, Amcrest NVR, 3rd party software using RTSP, Blue Iris, and optional Amcrest Smart Home Cloud remote video storage (includes 1-Year Free Cloud Storage plan). Extra-wide 93° viewing angle
- BABY MONITOR SOUND ALARM MODE, SHARING & ALEXA - Turn your Amcrest Smart Home camera into an adjustable VOX monitor to view and be notified based on adjustable sound thresholds (such as baby crying, or dog barking decibel levels). You can enable this mode directly from the live-view screen of the app. Works perfectly as a baby monitor or pet / dog camera and can be shared with multiple family members so everyone can have access to the live video and recordings. Works with Alexa.
- AI CHIPSET & HUMAN DETECTION – This is our most technologically advanced, smallest form factor and best low light 1080p WIFI camera yet. Unlike our competitors, our AI/human detection algo is built-in directly on the chipset (hardware ASIC) and thus doesn’t require a cloud access subscription to operate. The ASH21 features Smart Tracking allows the camera to track objects in motion. When enabled the camera will begin to automatically record and follow the object in motion.
- INTELLIGENT ALERTS, STORAGE OPTIONS – Receive motion alerts via email or push notification & instantly review recordings directly from your phone using the Amcrest Smart Home app. Human detection filtering reduces false alerts. Store your footage remotely on the Amcrest Smart Home Cloud or locally to a class 10 MicroSD card up to 256GB. Also compatible with Amcrest NVRs and 3rd party software through SDK integration. (Limited compatibility w/ Amcrest View Pro, not compatible w/ Amcrest Cloud).
- SEE IN THE DARK - SIMPLE, RELIABLE, SECURE – Night vision capability up to 33 feet in absolute darkness. WiFi products depend on the capability of your network. This camera is only compatible with 2.4GHz networks and does not work with 5Ghz Networks. 1-Year Free SmartHome Cloud Subscription included (Affordable plans available thereafter starting at $1.99/month). MicroSD card, NVR, 3rd party recording and AI Human detection are always free forever and not cloud based.
- High 2K WiFi IP Camera: With 2K resolution, wansview home camera displays a crystal clear smooth live video, you can keep an eye on your home anytime anywhere. Camera works with 2.4G WiFi. 5G is not supported
- Two-way Audio & Works with Alexa: Built-in microphone & speaker offer to communicate with your loved ones when you are out. Works with Alexa, ask Alexa to show your front door, baby room, or anywhere else you have your Wansview WiFi camera
- Smart Pan/Tilt & Crystal Night Vision: 105° wide-angle enhanced lens combined with 320° horizontal & 80° vertical rotation range create a complete 360° coverage and 4X digital zoom to enlarge the video to see details clearly. 4 pcs 940nm IR LEDs give you clear Black/White picture in pitch dark up to 5 meters, no light pollution
- Real-time Motion Alert: Alert notification and 10s video will be sent to your phone, just open Wansview cloud app to check quickly what is going on, will not miss any important movements. SD card and Cloud Storage are optional and SD card is not included
- Security and Privacy Protection: Financial Encryption Technology for cloud storage, the highest protection of the data for privacy. No one can access your camera or information without your permission
- 4MP H. 265 – 2. 4ghz WiFi IP camera features immaculate 4MP (2688x1520P at 30fps video using excellent low light capability utilizing the CMOS image sensor and chipset. Cover more ground using super-wide 90° viewing angle and remote pan/tilt. Works with Alexa through Amcrest Cloud. H. 265 video compression technology allows smoother video and reduces file sizes and bandwidth consumption. Due to hardware limitations, digital zoom is only available on the Amcrest View Pro App.
- SMARTER SECURITY – Receive motion alert notifications, review footage and engage in two-way communication via your smartphone using the Amcrest View app. Playback and record professionally on a PC using Amcrest Surveillance Pro for Windows and MAC or Blue Iris Professional. Works with Amcrest Cloud remote video storage, MicroSD, Amcrest NVRs, Synology and QNAP NAS, FTP, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari, etc using Amcrest Web View Extension.
- LOW LIGHT NIGHT VISION – Features a CMOS 1/3” 4MP progressive low-light image sensor and built-in IR LEDs to achieve superior low lux performance and night vision up to 32 feet. Not all WiFi IP cameras are built the same and our Texas based team with over 10 years of WiFi camera experience has built-out the performance of this camera by using the highest quality components in order to deliver the ultimate best in class 4MP pan/tilt WiFi camera experience.
- SECURE CLOUD VIDEO BACKUP – The optional Amcrest Cloud remote video storage service allows you automatically store your videos in the cloud hosted and secured by AWS (motion based and 24/7 continuous recording available). If something happens to your local PC/NVR/MicroSDcard(256GB, FAT32)/NAS, the footage will be safely recorded in a secure off-site location and accessible to you through a web-based interface for PC (Windows & MAC) (Chrome/Firefox/Safari/Edge) and Amcrest Cloud smartphone app.
- SIMPLE. RELIABLE. SECURE. - This Amcrest 2.4Ghz wireless security camera features a secure SSL/HTTPS connection, wireless AES/WPA2 encryption, FCC and CE camera certificate, UL rated power supply, and receives regular security firmware updates (Supports 2. 4Ghz Only). Operating Temp: 14°F ~ 113°F. At Amcrest, we want to ensure the safety of our customers, their loved ones, homes, and businesses and you’ll receive a full 1-year US and Lifetime Support provided directly from Amcrest.
- 1080P PAN, TILT, ZOOM WIFI CAMERA – Live streaming 1080p @30fps video. Remotely pan, tilt, and zoom (PTZ) from the app or set it to auto-track and detect humans in AI mode. High-quality full-HD 1080P video at 30fps for a crisp and clear picture. Records directly to microSD card (up to 256GB) (always free), optional Cloud storage as well as compatibility with 3rd party recording software through.
- INTELLIGENT MOTION DETECTION – When the Amcrest wifi baby camera detects movement, it will automatically send a notification to your phone and record the footage to your SD card or cloud. The camera can set smart filters to only detect human movement, thereby reducing false alarms. It can also be set to automatically track movement, panning, and tilting to track the movement of a person as they traverse across a room.
- SOUND ALARM MODE, SHARING & ALEXA - The Amcrest wifi camera can operate as a baby monitor with adjustable VOX alarm. This allows you to receive notifications on your phone based on adjustable sound thresholds (such as baby crying, or dog barking decibel levels) with no movement necessary. The wifi camera baby monitor can also be shared with multiple family members so everyone can have access to the live video and recordings. Works with Alexa.
- STORAGE OPTIONS & NIGHT VISION – Store your footage directly on the MicroSD card (up to 256GB, not included) or save your footage remotely on the Cloud (1-year free, then $2/month). Also compatible with Amcrest NVRs and 3rd party surveillance software through SDK integration including Blue Iris, Synology and QNAP NAS, Zoneminder, RTSP, and more. Night vision capability up to 33 feet in absolute darkness.
- EASY INSTALLATION - US SUPPORT & WARRANTY – The installation of the Amcrest baby monitor is incredibly easy and straightforward. The camera can be mounted on the wall, ceiling or tabletop and fully set up in 5 minutes or less. You’ll receive a full 1-year US Warranty and Lifetime technical support provided directly from Amcrest. Amcrest is a United States based company headquartered in Houston, TX. All data is stored in the US at Amazon AWS servers maintained by Amcrest engineers.
- 16MP CMOS Sensor
- 4-Proof Protection: Waterproof 20 Feet, Shockproof 5.0 Feet, Freeze proof 14, Dustproof
- 5x Wide Angle Optical Zoom (28-140mm)
- Full HD Movies - 1080i/60fps
- New Burst Mode Button - 10fps @ Full Resolution
- The 1080P HDCVI Security Camera is a high resolution 1920 x 1080 (1920 TVL) camera which provides excellent video quality and clarity.
- Connect your camera to the Amcrest HDCVI Security System to view and record in HD quality.
- View your camera anywhere in the world from a mobile device or tablet when connected to the Amcrest 1080P HDCVI Security System using our Amcrest View app on the Apple Store and Google Play Store.
- 20 Powerful IR-LEDs for Night Vision, IP66 Weatherproofing, and Long Distance Transmit Range up to 984ft.
- Camera Power Supply and Coaxial Video Cables are not Included but are Required and Sold Separately.
- Real-Time Remote Monitoring – Instantly view live footage from anywhere via secure iOS and Android apps.
- Premium Wide-Angle View – Monitor entire rooms more effectively with enhanced 160° coverage.
- Smart Motion Detection Alerts – Receive push notifications when movement is detected to stay informed.
- Stable 2.4G/5G WiFi Connectivity – Compatible with both WiFi bands for faster, more reliable streaming.
- Flexible Storage Support – Save footage to a microSD card up to 512GB (not included) with efficient compression.
- [High Quality Mini Camera] has an image quality of 1080P, is lightweight and easy to carry. This small but powerful device is the perfect tool for a variety of surveillance needs while blending seamlessly into your environment
- 【Easy To Setup】 Plug and Play 1080P Ultra HD Camera. Insert your microSD card, plug it into an outlet, your camera will start working immediately
- [Advanced Motion Detection:]You can manually turn on motion detection mode,Receive instant alerts and record when motion is detected, saving storage space and enhancing usability
- [Advanced Night Vision] Equipped with cutting-edge night vision technology, the security camera features 8 infrared (IR) LEDs that illuminate up to 15 feet in total darkness. Maintain vigilant surveillance day and night with clear, detailed images even in pitch-black conditions.
- [2-in-1 USB CHARGER CAMERA]Seamlessly integrates a fast-charging USB phone charger with a mini full-hd camera for dual functionality
Choosing Your First Camera: A Beginner’s Guide
Thinking about buying your first “Ameture Camera”? That’s exciting! These cameras are perfect for learning photography. They offer more control than your phone but are easier to use than fancy professional gear. This guide will help you pick the right one.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop, look closely at these important parts. They make a big difference in how your camera works and how good your pictures look.
Sensor Size Matters
The sensor is like the camera’s digital film. Bigger sensors usually capture more light. More light means clearer, brighter photos, especially when it’s a little dark. For beginners, look for cameras with at least an APS-C sensor if you are looking at interchangeable lens cameras. Smaller point-and-shoot models will have smaller sensors.
Resolution (Megapixels)
Megapixels tell you how much detail the camera can save. More megapixels mean you can print bigger photos or crop (cut out) parts of your picture without losing quality. Around 20 to 24 megapixels is great for most new photographers.
Lens Flexibility
Can you change the lens? If yes, you have more options! A “kit lens” (a basic lens that often comes with the camera) is a good start. Later, you can buy special lenses for portraits or zooming in far away.
Screen and Viewfinder
Check the back screen. Can you flip it around or tilt it? This helps you take pictures from tricky angles. Some cameras use an electronic viewfinder (a small screen you look through). This helps you see the shot clearly, even in bright sunlight.
Important Materials and Build
The camera body needs to feel good in your hands. Good materials make the camera last longer.
- Body Construction: Most beginner cameras use strong plastic. This keeps them light. Better, more expensive models use magnesium alloy, which is tougher but heavier.
- Grip: Hold the camera. Does it feel secure? A good, rubberized grip stops your hands from slipping.
- Weather Sealing: This is rare on very cheap cameras. Weather sealing means the camera resists light rain or dust. This feature protects the inside parts.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a good photo great, and what ruins it?
Image Stabilization (Improves Quality)
This feature helps keep your picture steady if you shake your hands a little bit. It reduces blurry photos, especially when taking videos or shooting in low light. Look for cameras that have this built-in.
Autofocus Speed (Improves Quality)
How fast does the camera lock onto your subject? Fast autofocus is crucial for capturing moving things, like pets or kids playing. Slow autofocus can cause you to miss the perfect moment.
Lens Quality (Reduces Quality)
The best camera body in the world cannot fix a bad lens. Cheap lenses often make photos look soft or cause weird color fringing (purple or green edges). Invest in good lenses when you can.
Battery Life (Reduces Quality of Experience)
A short battery life means you stop shooting too soon. Check reviews to see how many shots you can take on a single charge. Carrying extra batteries is always smart.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about what you want to photograph most often. This guides your choice.
- Travel Photography: You need something small and light. Mirrorless cameras are often better than bulky DSLRs for travel.
- Family Events and Sports: You need fast autofocus and a good zoom lens.
- Learning Photography Basics: Look for a camera with good “Manual Mode” controls. You want to easily change settings like aperture and shutter speed.
A good user experience means the menus are easy to navigate. If the buttons are confusing, you will get frustrated. Try to test different models in a store if possible.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for New Camera Buyers
Q: What is the biggest difference between a phone camera and an Ameture Camera?
A: The main difference is control. Cameras let you change things like aperture and shutter speed. They also use bigger sensors for better image quality.
Q: Should I buy a DSLR or a Mirrorless camera?
A: Mirrorless cameras are generally smaller, lighter, and use newer technology. DSLRs are often cheaper when starting out and have very long battery lives. Both are great for beginners.
Q: What does “Aperture” mean in simple terms?
A: Aperture is the opening in the lens that lets light in. A wide aperture (small number like f/2.8) lets in lots of light and makes the background blurry.
Q: Is 4K video important for a beginner camera?
A: 4K video is nice to have, but if you are mainly focusing on still photos, 1080p HD video is perfectly fine for learning and sharing online.
Q: How important is the camera’s weight?
A: Very important! If the camera is too heavy, you might leave it at home. Always choose the lightest camera that meets your needs.
Q: Do I need to buy a separate memory card?
A: Yes. Almost all cameras require you to purchase an SD memory card separately. Get a fast card (UHS-I or faster) for better performance.
Q: What is “ISO” and when should I change it?
A: ISO measures how sensitive the sensor is to light. Keep the ISO low (100 or 200) in bright light for the best quality. Raise it only when it gets dark and you cannot use a slow shutter speed.
Q: Can I use old lenses on a new camera body?
A: Sometimes you can, but you usually need a special adapter ring. Check if the brand of your old lens matches the new camera mount.
Q: How often should I clean my camera lens?
A: Only clean the lens when you see dust or smudges. Use a special lens cloth or blower. Never wipe the glass with your shirt!
Q: What is the best camera brand for a beginner?
A: Canon, Nikon, Sony, and Fujifilm all make excellent beginner cameras. The best brand is the one that feels best in your hands and has lenses you like.