With most smartphones constantly improving their cameras, you would think buying an actual camera is almost an after-thought, but that hasn’t been the case. If anything it seems like camera phones are making everyone into budding photographers and camera companies are constantly updating their designs to stay ahead of the smartphone makers and make them easier to use. Here are our list of some options to snap up.
Nikon 1 AW1 – $800
One of the reasons why cameras still can’t be replaced by smartphones with cameras is durability. Nikon has combined equal parts of toughness and sexiness and given us the Michelle Rodriguez of cameras, the Nikon 1 AW1. The AW1 is waterproof, shockproof and freezeproof and comes with in a silver silicone frame making it the perfect companion anywhere you plan on shooting. The camera itself can shoot up to 60 frames per second in fixed focus and extras like GPS and an electronic compass will make sure your trips end happily.
Samsung Galaxy NX – $1700
As Smartphones camera enthusiasts look to step up to real cameras the move might be a little daunting. But, the guys at Samsung have got you covered. The Galaxy NX gives you a real camera experience but with the familiarity of an Android smartphone interface. The camera comes with tutorials to help you get acclimated with settings, frame rates, and other photo jargon. The Android interface lets you download apps that let you post your images directly to Facebook, Instagram or any other app. The NX can also use any of the NX series interchangeable lenses
Sony QX100 – $500
The camera on everyone’s list is Sony’s Cyber-shot QX series. The Lens contains all of the camera parts and connects to your Android or iOS smartphone or tablet to act as the display. The camera takes great pics and videos as it utilizes much of the same imaging tech as the Cyber Shot RX 100.
Canon 5D Mark III – $3000
When it’s not broke don’t fix it, just tweak it a bit and that’s exactly what Canon has done with the Mark III of their uber-popular 5D brand. 22 megapixel full frame sensor, dual SD slots, Built in HDR, multiple exposure modes, and it shoots video and static pictures brilliantly making it the DSLR of choice for most professionals. Even if you don’t know what you’re doing with it, you at least can look the part.
Canon Elph 330 HS – $149
Appropriately named, the Elph is compact in size but big in performance. Canon’s Elph pulls double duty as a great portable camera that can take both great quality pictures and videos. With a price tag just under $200, you can get the camera and still afford to make some memories to take pictures of. It’s also small enough to not make you look like a tourist when you are snapping away.
By: Ian Freeman
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