Canon EF 50 mm f/1.4 USM Lens Review and Sample Photos with Model, Annie Montgomery

(By using the affiliate links and/or codes in this blog post, you help support Myles Katherine Photography. I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase through these links. Thank you for your support!)

I’ve reviewed quite a few Canon lenses at this point but I definitely can’t forget about this one! The Canon EF 50 mm f/1.4 USM lens is probably one of the most underrated Canon lenses, in my opinion. It was my first fixed lens that I purchased to use alongside my Canon 5D Mark II (I’ve since upgraded to the Canon 5D Mark IV), and it was honestly the starting point for my entire photography career. The images I created with this lens caught the eyes of some of my very first clients. It’s an incredible lens for the price and has a magic to it that I haven’t been able to find with any other lenses in this price point. I eventually upgraded to the Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L lens (you can read more about this lens on my blog here!) and sold this one, but then I recently found it in a thrift store for an incredible price and bought it again! I was always upset with myself for selling it because the images I created with it were so special and memorable. I’m honestly so glad that it’s back in my collection. I typically give it to my second shooter at weddings while I use the 50 mm f/1.2 L, just because that one does do a bit better in low light. But there are so many positive things about the 50 mm f/1.4 USM lens and so I believe it deserves a full blog post showcasing it’s amazing capabilities!

3 OF MY FAVORITE FEATURES OF THE CANON 50MM F/1.4 LENS

  1. IT’S SMALL AND LIGHTWEIGHT

    Once you get into the L series lenses, they start to get bulky and heavy. The 50mm f/1.2 L lens is much larger and heavier than the f/1.4. If you go for the f/1.8 lens which is even cheaper then this lens, the lens is even smaller. However, I didn’t find the f/1.8 lens as special as this one. While I prefer zoom lenses in general, especially when I’m shooting a wedding, I love a fixed lens because of how much less annoying they are to walk around with. They’re great for traveling and are much easier to manage when carrying it in a camera bag. I travel a LOT and I have reached a point in my life where I just don’t bring my giant zoom lenses with me anymore. They make my backpack way too heavy. So these days I’ll stick a fixed lens on my camera and call it a day. I don’t find them as efficient and they do require more patience because you constantly have to step backwards or forwards to capture the exact distance you want from your subject or landscape.

  2. THE BOKEH IS STUNNING

    While the bokeh that this lens can produce isn’t technically amazing, there is something special about it, in my opinion. The key characteristic of ideal bokeh is that the circles that the lens produces at it’s widest aperture are perfectly circular. These circles are a little oblong, but I find it gives the images more of a surreal quality, which I prefer. It reminds me of an art lens, like the TTArtisan 75mm f/1.5 Swirly Bokeh Lens or the Petzval lenses (you can find them on Lomography or eBay for more affordable used ones).

  3. IT’S AFFORDABLE!

    I recommend this lens constantly because it’s an amazing mid-range lens that can truly elevate your work. Personally, I love shooting with this lens wide open, or close to it. In bright lighting situations, you’ll want to lower your exposure to make up for all of the light the lens is bringing in. If your photos are too bright or blown out, that’s how you know the exposure needs to come down. This lens costs about $450 new, which is pretty amazing for the images it can produce. Of course, it matters what camera you’re shooting with too, but for the images shared in this post, I used a Canon 5D Mark II, which was a super professional camera when it first was released, but now can be found for as cheap as $300 through KEH Camera for one in excellent condition. It’s a great starting point if you’re just starting your photography business and aren’t quite ready to spend thousands of dollars on lenses and equipment.

CANON 50 MM F/1.2 L LENS (LEFT) VS. CANON 50MM F/1.4 USM LENS

3 CONS OF THE CANON 50MM F/1.4 USM LENS

  1. IT HAS A STRONG VIGNETTE TO THE IMAGES

    This isn’t necessary a negative to me, but a lot of people might find this frustrating. My favorite camera in the world is the Holga GCFN, which is known for it’s intense vignette, so I’m used to it and I find that it fits my personal style perfectly. I like to shoot darker imagery and I love a spooky elements to my photos. If you’re looking for a perfect wedding lens for high quality portraits or you prefer brighter imagery when editing, you’d probably prefer the 50mm f/1.2 L lens. If you aren’t sure what I mean by vignette, it means that the edges of the photo are dark and shadowy, almost like you’re shooting through a pinhole camera. You can see a circular ghosting around the corners of the photo. Again, doesn’t bother me but I totally understand if it bothers you!

  2. THE IMAGES MIGHT SEEM A BIT SOFT

    I wouldn’t describe this lens as the sharpest in the world, especially when comparing it to the 50 mm f/1.2 L lens. My 1.2 lens is incredibly sharp, especially when I’m shooting with the newer mirrorless cameras. I have a Canon EOS R that does amazing with the 1.2 lens, and I’m going to be upgrading to the Canon R6 Mark III soon and I know that’s going to be incredible too! I’m definitely looking for the sharpest images possible when I’m shooting for a client. However, creatively I actually prefer softer images. I’m also used to shooting with a lot of crappy film cameras, so I’m used to my images not being perfectly sharp. I just think it adds more character. I’m not a technically minded person so I’m not always looking to create the best image. I’m looking to create the most unique image.

  3. IT ISN’T COMPATIBLE WITH THE NEWER CANON MIRRORLESS CAMERAS WITHOUT AN ADAPTER

    This lens is a bit outdated as Canon moves towards only producing mirrorless cameras. The RF lenses are the newer line of lenses by Canon, so if you decide to get a Canon 5D Mark II, III or IV, then the RF lenses are not compatible at all. Meaning, no matter what you can’t use the RF lenses with an EF camera. However! It does work the other way around. You CAN use the EF lenses with an RF camera. So the 50 mm f/1.4 lens that I’m talking about isn’t entirely useless. You just have to buy an EF to RF adapter. But just know that this lens is the older EF style of lenses by Canon. And just to let you know, the adapter does make the lens stick out a bit more so it makes your camera set-up a bit bulkier.

SO, WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS LENS?

100%. I recommend this lens constantly to anyone who asks me where they should start if they don’t have a huge budget. I’d probably go for a Canon 6D Mark II and this lens if you’re looking for an affordable but professional starter set-up. This set-up carried me for quite a few years and helped me to grow my photography business. I actually used the Canon 6D, not the 6D Mark II, but I recommend the 6D Mark II because it’s a bit more modern. If you’re looking for more of a budget option and really want to start low, the Canon 5D Mark II and III are incredibly affordable, but just know you’re likely buying a used one, since they are pretty outdated. They were top of the line when they first came out though, so if you’re able to find one in excellent+ condition, you’re really getting an incredible deal and could definitely be considered a professional photographer with the images you could produce.

I’m so glad this lens is back in my possession and I honestly can’t wait to take it out on another fun fashion shoot. It’s a great lens if you’re looking to be creative, have fun, and create unique images. I was lucky enough to work with model Annie Montgomery for these photos and I’m just so obsessed with everything we created together. We took these photos in Forest Park in Portland, Oregon, which is one of the most magical places in the city. If you’re visiting Portland, I highly recommend walking the trail from Lower Macleay park to Pittock Mansion.

If you’re looking for a zoom lens, I highly recommend the Canon 24-70mm f/2.8 II L lens ( I have a full blog post about this lens here). I’ve been using this lens for years and it has truly carried my photography business. It’s perfect for weddings and low light scenarios that require fast shooting. It’s great for portraits but also for landscapes, nature and travel. If I had to choose between a fixed lens or a zoom lens, I’d always go for a zoom, but ideally I have a fixed lens and a zoom lens with me at all times. You’re usually compromising a wide aperture for the zoom focal length, so when it comes specifically to portraits, a 50 mm lens like the 50 mm f/1.4 is my go-to. Nothing beats the magic of an f/1.2 or f/1.4 lens shot wide open.

So, in conclusion, I love this lens and I think you will too! If you’ve used this lens before, I’d love to know what you think about it! Maybe I’m weird for loving it’s quirkiness but I just find it creates the most beautiful, surreal photos. Let me know your thoughts!

If you’re in the beginning stages of choosing a camera, make sure to check out my blog posts, The 15 Best Digital Cameras for Beginner Photographers Under $1500 or The Top 10 Most Desired Digital Cameras of 2026.

WHERE TO BUY THE CANON 50MM F/1.4 USM LENS

AMAZON

B&H PHOTO

KEH CAMERA (USED)


WHERE TO BUY THE CANON 50MM F/1.2 L LENS

AMAZON

B&H PHOTO

KEH CAMERA (USED)

If you found this post helpful in any way, I’d love it if you considered signing up for my Patreon! For as little as $1 a month, you’ll get early access to all of my YouTube videos, plus tons of photos that I don’t post anywhere else. Depending on which tier you choose, you could also receive seasonal prints and/or discounts! I always use all of the proceeds towards cameras, film & processing.

If you have any questions, I’m always happy to help! You can contact me here, or leave a comment below! Thanks so much for stopping by! You can also check out my B&H Photo storefront & Amazon Storefront for more camera/film recommendations. :) Have a magical day!

<3 Myles Katherine

15 Best Digital Cameras for Beginner Photographers under $1500 | Top Entry-level Cameras from Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm & More!

I get asked this question a LOT, and I totally get it. Most people aren’t interested in a super professional camera that costs an arm and a leg. They want a camera that they can use to capture their family vacations, their kid’s sports games, or their family get-togethers. But they also want beautiful photographs that are worthy of hanging on the wall. Yes, cell phones these days can take decently good photos, but they aren’t super great for blowing up larger and spending money on a frame. If you’re ready for an upgrade from your iPhone, this list is for you!

I included a blend of point-and-shoot cameras, DSLRs, and mirrorless cameras from Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm & others. And if you’re over the big brands, I’ve included a few from Panasonic, OM System, Ricoh, and Leica. So, depending on which brand or style you prefer, hopefully this list will help guide you in the right direction. All of these cameras offer a lot for the price and tend to lean towards the more professional side of photography. But, just because they are more “professional”, doesn’t mean they aren’t approachable. There are cameras on this list that you can get as low as $400 if you’re open to buying a used camera. Buying used gear doesn’t mean you can’t get a camera in incredible condition. I always recommend buying used gear through KEH Camera or B&H Photo because they have a detailed rating system and are honest about the condition of the gear. Plus, they both have excellent customer service if you have any issues along the way. And just remember, your iPhone probably cost $1000-$1500, and with these cameras, you’re getting a LOT more bang for your buck in terms of photo quality and functionality. Plus, if you want to hang one in a photography gallery, you can do that too! :)

So, without further ado, here are the 15 Best Digital Cameras for Beginner Photographers Under $1500!

(By using the affiliate links and/or codes in this blog post, you help support Myles Katherine Photography. I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase through these links. Thank you for your support!)

1. Canon 6D or 6D Mark II - DSLR

I have to start off with a Canon camera because this is my tried and true brand. I’ve been shooting with Canon since the very beginning of my photography career. At times, I’ve considered entirely switching my set-up to another brand just to try something different, but after weighing all of my options, it always comes back to Canon. It’s because they offer the best budget to quality ratio, in my opinion. There are also certain features that I’m looking for in my main cameras, like multiple exposures, affordability, and color tone. There’s something about Canon’s standard color temperature that looks natural, but with a hint of mystery. The colors are a bit darker than some of the other cameras, which is why it appeals to me. If you’re more interested in bright, saturated color tones, I’d probably recommend a Sony option. Now, keep in mind the Canon 6D or 6D Mark II is a DSLR. This means it’s quite a bit bulkier than a point-and-shoot, and you have to buy a separate lens. But, there are a handful of lenses out there that are quite small and can actually make this camera pretty easy to walk around with. I recommend the Canon EF 50 mm f/1.4 or f/1.8. The Canon 6D was my main camera for nearly a decade. I feel like this might surprise people because it is a more low-budget professional Canon camera. The more recent version of the camera, the 6D Mark II, sells for around $1200 but the reason it’s on this list is because you can get a gently used one for an amazing price these days. I highly recommend KEH camera, which is a company that sells used gear and is super helpful if there is ever a problem. You can also pick up a used version on eBay, just make sure you’re going through a reputable seller with good reviews, and read their description carefully. And ask the most important question, what is the shutter count on the camera? This can tell you a lot about whether the camera was used or if it’s in practically new condition.

You can read my full blog post and review about the Canon 6D here!

WHERE TO BUY THE CANON 6D

KEH Camera (used)

B&H Photo (used)

WHERE TO BUY THE CANON 6D MARK II

Amazon

B&H Photo (used)

KEH Camera (used)

2. Canon Powershot G7X Mark II - Point-and-shoot

Yes, this camera is difficult to get your hands on these days, and usually it’s at an up charge. But keep your eyes open for a used one on KEH camera, because this tiny little point-and-shoot packs a punch. I’ve actually taken it on my last two European vacations, instead of my bulky DSLR camera. You can check out my full blog post about this camera here! And surprisingly, the auto setting works really well, particularly for landscapes or outdoor photos. If you’re using it for indoor sports or something like that, I’d recommend using the shutter priority setting. Basically, you set the shutter speed, which you’d want to be fairly fast (like 1/500th or 1/800th) so that you don’t get too much blur, and then it will automatically set the other settings. The amazing thing about this camera is that the aperture goes as wide as f/1.8. This means it can perform great in low light and can create beautiful portraits with lovely background blur. It might take some learning when it comes to using that setting, because it can become more difficult to get your subject in focus, or to not have the highlights blown out. It’s a great camera to learn on though, because it does have the option of shutter priority, aperture priority, manual and lots of others! A lot of times, people ask me what to get instead of the Canon G7X Mark II, since it’s difficult to find. I’d recommend the Sony RX 100 VII (read more about this one below), or the Sony ZV-1, ZV-1 II or ZV-1F for lower budget options. There’s also a newer version of this camera, the G7X Mark III, which may be easier to find but isn’t quite as coveted. The autofocus is known to be a bit less reliable. However, you might be able to find it for a better price than the G7X Mark II!

WHERE TO BUY THE CANON POWERSHOT G7X MARK II

Amazon

KEH Camera (used)

Check eBay Listings

WHERE TO BUY THE CANON G7X MARK III

Amazon

KEH Camera (used)

Check eBay Listings

3. Canon EOS RP - Mirrorless

The Canon EOS RP is a newer budget professional Canon camera, so it offers some more trendy features than the older Canon 6D Mark II. But keep in mind, when the Canon 6D Mark II first came out, it was a $2000 camera, whereas the Canon EOS RP was originally $1299. Now, you can get the Canon EOS RP for around $800, which is an amazing price for what you get. The EOS RP is a mirrorless camera, which is a more modern kind of camera than a DSLR. It also means you have to use Canon’s RF line of lenses. They are the newest line of lenses and are known to be a bit sharper than the older EF lenses. Also, because this camera is newer, it also offers better video than the Canon 6D Mark II, but it actually has the same sensor and ISO range (low-light sensitivity)! However, the 6D Mark II offers better battery life, build quality, burst shooting (important for sports action), and EF lens compatibility. These options are important for event photographers and wildlife photographers, who need longer battery life and build quality that will withstand more extreme conditions. If you’re looking for a step up from the RP, I highly recommend the Canon R8. It’s about $1400 new but it has more modern features and really competes with some of the best mirrorless cameras out there.

WHERE TO BUY THE CANON EOS RP

Amazon

B&H Photo

KEH Camera (used)

4. Canon 5D Mark IV - DSLR

This is actually my current camera, and I truly can’t believe that price you can get for a used version of this camera through KEH camera. A new 5D Mark IV costs around $2000 these days, but when it was first released, it was $3500!!! The reason these have drastically reduced in price is because of the introduction of the mirrorless cameras. Personally, I still prefer the DSLRs because I find them to be sturdier, more user-friendly and longer-lasting. My had my first Canon camera, the 5D Mark II, for 10 years and I never had an issue with it. And I definitely dropped it more times than I could count. They are truly built to last. The mirrorless cameras often have more breakable screens, more electronic functions that can glitch out more easily, and just aren’t as tried and true. I suppose we’ll find out if they stand the test of time, but you’re more likely to get a camera without issues by going with a DSLR, even if it’s used. I have the Canon EOS R, Canon’s first mirrorless camera, and I've had a ton of issues with it, mostly just functionality issues that they’ve adjusted since then, but I tend to recommend DSLR’s over mirrorless still to this day. If you can get a used 5D Mark IV for a good price, you’re competing with some incredible photographers that also use this as their main camera!

I have a full blog post and review with sample photos of the 5D Mark IV here!

WHERE TO BUY THE CANON 5D MARK IV

Amazon (new)

B&H Photo (used)

KEH Camera (used)

5. Nikon Z5 - Mirrorless

The Nikon Z5 is Nikon’s entry-level mirrorless camera, so if you’d prefer to go with a more modern camera than the old-school DSLR’s and Nikon is your brand, this is a great option. The Z5 is about $1100 new, but again, you can get a used one for an amazing price through KEH camera. The Z5 is super compact too, so if you don’t want to stand out too much when you’re on vacation or at your kid’s sports game, this is a perfect option. You’ll still get 4K video, a surprisingly good ISO range, and great autofocus. The standout features are really the in-body image stabilization, dual card slots, and lightweight body. While I don’t have as much experience with Nikon, they are Canon’s main arch nemesis, and have always stood the test of time. I have a 35 mm Nikon film camera, the Nikon FE2, that I’m absolutely obsessed with. They have great lens options and simply won’t let you down.

WHERE TO BUY THE NIKON Z5

Amazon

B&H Photo

KEH Camera (used)

6. Nikon D750 - DSLR

For years, this was the camera that I swear every photographer was using. It’s a DSLR similar to the Canon 5D Mark III or 6D that is sturdy, professional and reliable. Since Nikon is also shifting towards mirrorless cameras, you can get the D750 for an incredible price. Originally $2300, you can now pick up a new one for around $1700. But the reason I put it on this list is because you can get one in excellent condition from KEH camera for as low as $700. I feel like used gear always freaks people out, but that’s why I recommend KEH camera or B&H Photo for used gear. The employees know a LOT about cameras and photography and can totally help you out if there’s ever an issue.

WHERE TO BUY THE NIKON D750

B&H Photo

Amazon

B&H Photo (used)

KEH Camera (used)

7. Sony A7 II or III - Mirrorless

The Sony A7 III is an extremely popular camera these days because it has amazing video, image quality, autofocus, battery life, dual card slots, a compact body and in-body image stabilization. A lot of people might argue it’s the best all-around camera out there these days. The great thing is, it’s only $1500 new! While that does not include a lens, you can go for a kit that includes a lens, which usually saves you a bit of money in the long run. Again, that’s why I’d check out the used options on KEH or B&H if you want the best deal. I promise you, you don’t need to be afraid of used gear! I just recommend always getting one in excellent or excellent+ condition. You basically want it to be in as new of condition as possible. The lower price point ones in “good” condition might seem appealing, but you just never know the history of the camera.

WHERE TO BUY THE SONY A7 II

Amazon

Check eBay Listings

KEH Camera (used)

WHERE TO BUY THE SONY A7 III

Amazon

B&H Photo

KEH Camera (used)

B&H Photo (used)

8. Sony A6700 - Mirrorless

The Sony a6700 has been on my list for a while now because it’s super compact, has amazing video, and has an excellent autofocus system. Sony has really been carving their own path in the camera industry and in my opinion, is very much challenging Canon and Nikon. I’m not mad about it though because it has made Canon and Nikon really amp up their gear and keep it relevant. I feel like they both were coasting for a while as the two main camera brands, but now they finally have some competition. The a6700 is particularly great if you’re trying to capture motion or sports, and if video is more important to you than photos. If you’re starting a YouTube channel, or are interested in capturing slo-mo, the a6700 is for you.

WHERE TO BUY THE SONY A6700

Amazon

B&H Photo

B&H Photo (used)

KEH Camera (used)

9. Sony RX100 VII - Point-and-shoot

If I could choose any camera off this list that I don’t already have, it would be this one. The only reason I haven’t really invested in Sony is because their cameras don’t offer multiple exposure. To most people, this feature isn’t important, so if you’re really looking for a super relevent, modern, point-and-shoot camera, this is the one. It’s $1500 new, but a used version goes for around $1300. And what’s nice about this one is that you don’t have to worry about buying a separate lens! It’s a point-and-shoot, so the lens is part of the camera and can’t be removed. You just point, and shoot! It’s perfect for family vacations, being inconspicuous at a sports event, throwing in your bag for a simple outing, or capturing beautiful group portraits at family events. It’s similar to the Canon G7X Mark III in a lot of ways, but better for capturing motion, better battery life, and an even smaller body. It’s a great option if you’re having a hard time finding a G7X Mark II.

WHERE TO BUY THE SONY RX100 VII

Amazon

B&H Photo (new)

KEH Camera (used)

10. Fujifilm X-S20 - Mirrorless

I always describe Fujifilm cameras as a great option for the photographer who craves creative control, unique images, and a break from the norm. Fujifilm is really known for their film cameras, which is why their digital cameras are so fun. The often have fun film-simulation modes built-in, which allows you to create images that are film-like and that stand out from the traditional digital look that you find with all of the other cameras on this list. And the Fujifilm X-S20 actually has incredible video, a compact body, and lots of other great features that particularly are great for vloggers or YouTubers.

WHERE TO BUY THE FUJIFILM X-S20

Amazon

B&H Photo

B&H Photo (used)

KEH Camera (used)

11. Fujifilm X100V - Point-and-shoot / Rangefinder

The X100V is the sort of the point-and-shoot Fujifilm option with a fixed lens and super compact body. If you like the idea of the film simulation modes and a built-in fixed lens, then this might be a better option. The Fujifilm X100V is beloved in the film community for a lot of reasons, such as the retro-style camera body, the beautiful 23mm f/2 fixed lens and 4K video. While the X-S20 has better video, it’s not as compact or “pretty” to look at. The X-S20 is a DSLR, while this is more like a portable point-and-shoot. It’s just a fun camera to carry around and it makes you excited to take photographs. It doesn’t feel embarrassingly large or “serious”. It’s quirky and special! Because these are highly coveted, it can be difficult to get your hands on one, but KEH camera sometimes has a bargain option for around $1500. I recommend keeping your eye out and waiting for a good deal because it’s really just a classic camera to have in your collection.

WHERE TO BUY THE FUJIFILM X100V

KEH Camera (used)

Check eBay Listings

12. Panasonic LUMIX LX100 II - Point-and-shoot / Mirrorless

The Panasonic LX100 II is actually pretty similar to the camera I just mentioned, the Fujifilm X100V. It’s a compact camera with a fixed lens but for a lower price. It might not be as highly sought after, but it offers a lot of the same features. The main differences are that the Panasonic LX100 II actually has a bit of zoom to the lens, which is better for travel or capturing sports. It also has better image stabilization and a smaller, lighter body. The main positive attribute of this camera is the price. You can get a used one on eBay or KEH Camera for around $1200 (if you can find one…)! And don’t forget, this includes the lens since it’s built in! Not to mention, it’s a Leica lens, which are known for being ultra sharp. With only 17 megapixel images, the the image quality overall isn’t quite as good as a lot of cameras on this list, but the price is less stressful than investing in a full DSLR and lens set-up or an overpriced point-and-shoot like the Canon G7X Mark III. The lens is a f/1.7 to f/2.8 aperture though, which does increase the capabilities of the camera in low light.

WHERE TO BUY THE PANASONIC LUMIX LX100 II

KEH Camera (used)

Check eBay Listings (used)

13. Panasonic LUMIX S5 - Mirrorless

The Panasonic LUMIX S5 is a full-frame mirrorless camera that fits in more with the Canon EOS RP or Nikon Z5. This means it’s a bit bulkier, requires a separate lens purchase, and is geared more towards professional photographers. It’s on the higher end of the pricepoint spectrum, but still fits on this list if you buy it used! It’s a full-frame mirrorless camera with 4K video capabilites, in-body image stabilization, and a rugged, sturdy body. This is a pro level hybrid camera, so its great for both photo and video. It really has all of the features you need to start a photography or video career if you’re really serious about investing in your future. It’s honestly a great price for what you get and is actually lighter and smaller than most full-frame DSLRs!

WHERE TO BUY THE PANASONIC LUMIX S5

Amazon

B&H Photo (used)

KEH Camera (used)

14. OM System OM-5 - Mirrorless

I’ve recently been doing a lot more research into the OM system cameras after my visit to the B&H Bild Expo in New York City. I was chatting with one of the associates in the OM booth and learned a lot about their brand. The OM System cameras are particularly amazing for travel because of their super durable weather-sealed design. The autofocus is great and the burst shooting goes up to 30 fps, which is incredible for nature photography and capturing things like fluttering birds wings. I’d definitely recommend this camera particularly to hikers, nature photographers and travel photographers because it has a lot of other features like a Starry Sky autofocus mode and built-in neutral density filters to help capture things like waterfalls and waves. It also has an interesting “hand-held high-res shot” that allows for images up to 50 megapixels by combining multiple shots into one.

WHERE TO BUY THE OM SYSTEM OM-5

Amazon

B&H Photo (new)

B&H Photo (used)

KEH Camera (used)

15. Ricoh GR IIIx - Point-and-shoot

This one can be a bit difficult to find as well, similar to the other point-and-shoot cameras on this list. But Ricoh is a brand I’ve been getting into lately, especially with their film cameras. The Ricoh GR IIIx is a premium point-and-shoot camera that is compact and travel-friendly, with great image stabilization and low-light performance. What makes it really stand out though is the image quality and sharpness. As a Japanese company, their attention to optics is pretty unmatched. They’ve always been known for their sharp lenses and durable camera bodies. While they don’t release as many cameras as Canon or Sony, they pay attention to detail and create cameras that are worth the wait. I actually recently had the chance to test this camera out so make sure to check out my full blog post about it here!

WHERE TO BUY THE RICOH GR IIIX

Amazon

KEH Camera (used)

Check eBay Listings (used)

BONUS OPTION!


16. Leica D-Lux 7 - Point-and-shoot

Point-and-shoot cameras are incredibly popular these days so I wanted to include one more that stands out to me. While the Leica D-Lux 7 has to be purchased used to fit in the $1500 price point, it does include the lens since it’s a point-and-shoot! Leica cameras in general are beautiful and stylish, with that retro old-school film camera look. While I have yet to own one because they tend to be overpriced for the specs that you get, this one is somewhat affordable and keeps up with the others in this price point. Their lenses are known for being super sharp and are made with premium materials since they are somewhat considered a “luxury” brand. If you really want a camera that feels special and great in your hands, the Leica cameras are truly beautiful. Also, if you’re looking for a gift for a photographer, no one is going to turn down a Leica!

WHERE TO BUY THE LEICA D-LUX 7

KEH Camera (used)

Check eBay Listings (used)

If you’re on the hunt for something a bit more pro-level and are working on growing your photography business, I highly recommend checking out my blog post, The Top 10 Most Desired Digital Cameras of 2026 under $2500.

If you found this post helpful or inspiring, I’d love it if you considered signing up for my Patreon! For as little as $1 a month, you’ll get early access to all of my YouTube videos, plus tons of photos that I don’t post anywhere else. Depending on which tier you choose, you could also receive seasonal prints and/or discounts! I always use all of the proceeds towards cameras, film & processing.

If you have any questions, I’m always happy to help! You can contact me here, or leave a comment below! Thanks so much for stopping by! You can also check out my B&H Photo storefront & Amazon Storefront for more camera/film recommendations. :) Have a magical day!

<3 Myles Katherine

RECOMMENDED POSTS