“What is a good entry level camera?”

This is something I get asked all the time. There are really a ton of options out there, but I find it easiest to answer by explaining where I started and how I began to upgrade my gear.

Here is a breakdown of what gear I have used as I grew in the hobby from just starting out to where I am now. I have listed the most recent versions of the gear that I used as it has been several years. I am also not writing a brand comparison. I have shot Canon and Sony but I have listed Nikon options as well that are similar models. Finally, this is just a quick list. Be sure to read up on all of the different products and do your research but this should be a great starting point!

Beginner

Body

My first camera body was a Canon Rebel series. They are one of the most popular entry level cameras and are a great tool for learning foundational skills and taking good photos. They are very affordable and often come with lens kit options to get you started. There are endless kit options available with different freebies.

Canon option  Nikon option

Lenses

The standard 18-55mm lens is great for walking around and taking full body shots of reptiles. If you are looking at getting into macro photography, my personal favorite, there are plenty of options. They can be a little pricier, but a good macro lens should last a long time even if you upgrade your camera body.

I have used the Canon 100mm macro lens and the 60mm macro lens. I prefer the 100mm because of the longer focal length which gives you a much closer look at the subject while being farther away than the 60mm does.
Canon   Nikon  

If you’re out looking for animals on hikes, a telephoto is good to have on hand for the animals that are just a little too far away. You can get a rebel with a 75-300 as standard kit option.
Canon option Nikon option

Lights

A good speedlite is great to have. There are plenty of solid third party options like Yongnuo however you have to be careful in selecting one that will work with your camera. If you want to stick with your brand, the canon 430EX lll-RT is a great starter and the 600 series is a great option if you want something a little more powerful.
Canon option Nikon option

Whatever you want to call yourself after beginner

Body

The most common leap photographers take as they learn more is going from a crop sensor like the rebel series has, to a full frame sensor. The main reason for the switch is essentially an increase in overall image quality, but there is plenty to learn through a quick google.

I used the Canon 6D as my first full frame body. Like the Rebel series, you can often get bundles but since you likely have most of what you need at this point, buying the body only can save a little money. The most recent version is the 6D mkII.
Canon option Nikon option

Lenses

I continued to use the same 100mm macro lens I had from my rebel series on my 6D as is it a perfectly good lens and works on both.
Canon   Nikon  

Lights

Continuing to use your same lights should be fine. The next step up would be studio strobes which can quickly become expensive.

Then what? 

If you’re like me, you’ll be on a never ending quest for the perfect collection of gear. At this point in your journey as a photographer, you should have a pretty good idea of what you want to do next and what upgrades you’ll need. You can see what I am currently using here!