While phones continue to advance their imaging technology, digital cameras are still better for capturing images and videos. One big advantage is the variety of interchangeable lenses. With mirrorless and DSLR cameras, you can switch between speciality lenses, including macro, tilt-shift and telephoto. Digital cameras also have larger image sensors; in general, a larger sensor produces higher quality images. Autofocus on digital cameras – especially for tracking people and animals – still outperforms the capabilities of a smartphone. Digital cameras typically have a range of accessories designed to expand their capabilities. The Canon EOS System includes Speedlite flashes, wireless file transmitters, GPS receivers and more to help users get the most from their camera.

Yes, digital cameras produce outstanding video quality. All Canon mirrorless and DSLR cameras have video capability. Some models can record for over an hour. (The EOS R1 and EOS R3, for example, can record for up to six hours, depending on the resolution and frame rate used.) Make sure to check the manual to ensure you’re using the right memory card; you’ll need a higher-end card to shoot in higher resolution. One big benefit of using a digital camera for video is the large sensor size, which will help you produce cinematic-quality videos that you can watch on your TV or other bigger screens.

While there’s something nostalgic about holding negatives in your hand, the technology of digital cameras now far exceeds that of film. For example, the ISO – the image sensor’s sensitivity to light – of digital cameras can now reach into the hundreds of thousands. You can also change the ISO with every shot; with film, it can only be changed with a new roll. With digital cameras, you can see your photo immediately and make adjustments before you click the shutter again. With film, you won’t know what you have until you develop the images.

In the current Canon lineup, your best option is the PowerShot SX70 HS compact digital camera, which features 65x optical zoom (equivalent to 21-1365mm in 35mm format). The long optical zoom range offers the flexibility to capture subjects in a variety of angles, perspectives and focal lengths. You may also want to consider an interchangeable lens camera, which gives you multiple lens options and greater overall flexibility. The RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM is a compact, lightweight telephoto lens for EOS R Series cameras. It also accepts RF1.4x and RF2x tele extenders, giving you the effective maximum focal lengths of 560mm and 800mm respectively.

The best digital cameras for beginners are usually small and compact, all the easier to make the jump from a smartphone to something more specialized. The best entry-level digital cameras will also feature built-in automatic Scene Mode. The camera automatically chooses the appropriate settings when you select a shooting mode (for example, sports, panning, food or night portrait) for your subject or scene. Built-in flash is also good for beginners. It’s a handy tool to ensure you take great photos as you learn how to compensate for low-light conditions with shutter speed and aperture. Some entry-level digital cameras are sold as dual lens kits. Having two lenses – typically a wide-angle and a telephoto – out of the gate gives you more variety and encourages you to dive right into the world of interchangeable lenses.

What features matter most depend on each individual’s priorities. But if you’re looking for a full range of functions, start your search with the EOS R6 Mark II. Ideal for advanced amateurs, the EOS R6 Mark II is well suited for a range of photo and video needs, including professional production, vlogging, still pictures and filmmaking. It features a 24.2 megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor; highly accurate subject detection with human, animal, vehicle and automatic settings; continuous movie recording that, depending on the frame rate, can record up to six hours; and advanced creator modes like Canon Log. A second option, the budget-friendly EOS R8 is aimed at the up-and-coming video or photo enthusiast. Extremely lightweight and compact, the EOS R8 shoots up to 6-fps with 1st-curtain Electronic shutter, and up to 40-fps with full electronic. For video, it offers up to two hours of continuous recording.

The simple answer is yes! Most cameras do not come with a memory card, so you will have to buy one (and a backup as well). You can still take photos without a memory card, but your images will only be in the camera for a moment, not stored permanently. Check your camera’s manual for memory card requirements.

For travelling, look for a camera that’s compact and light. A camera with good zoom will help you capture photos even when you can’t get as physically close to something as you’d like. The PowerShot SX740 HS features a 40x optical zoom lens (equivalent to 24-960mm) and 4K video capabilities. It also includes automatic image transfer, which can wirelessly send what you’ve captured to your computer and other compatible devices. Built-in flash is also a good feature to have and is available on entry-level cameras. The compact EOS R100 was designed for first-time mirrorless camera users and features autofocus with eye and face detection as well as Bluetooth™ and Wi-Fi® connectivity. No matter what camera you choose, make sure to pack a second battery – just in case!