2025 Camera Gear Guide: How to Choose the Best Equipment for Your Photography

It’s March 2025, and camera manufacturers are announcing their upcoming models with minor updates from their previous model. But do you really need a brand-new camera with all the latest upgrades? That depends on where you are in your photography journey. Let me share a bit about mine.

I started in 2003, and back then, Canon seemed like the obvious choice. I purchased a Canon 30D, an 8.2-megapixel DSLR camera, which came with a 17-85mm lens. Photography had always interested me, and at that point, I was ready to take on any project to learn. So why not try shooting a wedding to get started?

I’ll keep this part brief so I don’t bore you with unnecessary details. The challenge was real! Using auto or P-mode for “professional” was how I got through the day. When the on-camera flash popped up unexpectedly, I had no idea why. Like many people, reading the manual wasn’t a priority, and understanding the settings on the screen was confusing. Let’s just say there were a lot of blown-out skies and unusable shots among the 2,000+ photos I took that day.

Fast forward to 2025 (22 years later), and I’ve learned a few things. Weddings are no longer my thing, and I’ve mostly retired from portrait photography. Now, I take on the occasional creative shoot and photograph my own family when time allows.

But enough about me—let’s talk about what brought you here. Everyone’s needs are different when it comes to photography. Do you want a camera that can handle portraits, landscapes, night skies, and wildlife? Or do you already know your focus and prefer to upgrade as you go?

Starting Out: Go Used

If you’re just starting out, I suggest buying a used camera to see if you enjoy the process—taking photos, downloading content, and editing. The entire workflow can be overwhelming for some, and I’ve met a lot of people who’ve spent a small fortune on new gear that’s now collecting dust in their closets.

With that in mind, there are plenty of lightly used cameras available at great prices. You can often find excellent deals on platforms like Facebook Marketplace. Be sure to do your research, and take a knowledgeable friend along to avoid making mistakes on your first purchase. A word of caution: never pay upfront for used items. If the seller pressures you for immediate payment, back away—the deal may turn sour.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Camera

When shopping for a camera, here’s what I look for:

• Autofocus Speed: If you’re into wildlife or fast-moving subjects, autofocus speed is crucial. The most common complaint I hear from photographers shooting moving subjects is that their camera couldn’t lock onto the subject fast enough. This often boils down to how much light is entering the lens and reaching the sensor, as well as the quality of the lens you’re using.
• Low-Light Performance: A good camera should perform well in low-light conditions. If you’re shooting at dusk or indoors, this is a major factor.
• Versatility: I personally love the Canon R5 for its performance in portrait photography, landscapes, night skies, and even video. While it has some overheating issues when shooting video for long periods, Canon has made several software updates that have improved its overall performance.

Today, I’m using two camera bodies: the Canon R5 Mark II and the Canon R5C. As a hybrid photographer, I frequently switch between stills and video to capture clips for my reels and social media posts.

Budgeting and Gear Options

You can find a Canon R5 used today for anywhere between $2,800 and $3,400. When Canon launched the R series in 2020, they upgraded their lens mount, so older EF-mount lenses are available at more affordable prices. This can help you save money while still getting top-quality lenses.

Final Thoughts

I’ve been a loyal Canon user for 22 years, even as brands like Sony and Nikon release impressive gear. But I view a camera as a tool—and, like any tool, it’s only as good as the person operating it.

In my past life, I was a heavy-duty mechanic and used top-tier tools to get the job done efficiently. I approach camera gear the same way I did my Snap-On and Mac tools. I want performance, and I’m willing to pay for it with the experience I’ve gained over the years.

I’m not saying you need to buy a Canon camera. Do your research, try out different brands, and, if possible, rent or borrow a camera to see how it feels in your hands. Then choose the camera and lenses that fit your needs.