Update:
It appears my recommendations here are out of date. I recommended Nikon cameras because Nikon have been in existence for many decades, and because I have used Nikon film SLR cameras since 1980, and those cameras still work perfectly today. However, it now appears that Nikon's days might be coming to an end. Nikon no longer seem to be making the enormous range of lenses they used to (although many are still available used), and they seem to be struggling to keep up with the bigger manufacturers.
Therefore you should also consider other camera manufacturers, like Sony, Panasonic, Fuji and Canon.
I have left my original recommendations below, just for reference.
To the young woman who gave me a free espresso in a coffee shop in Marylebone on Wednesday 22nd March 2023, here are some recommendations for cameras:
Recommendation for good compact camera:
Canon Powershot G15
The Canon Powersot G15 is a good camera for enthusiasts wanting to take their photography to a higher level than their mobile phone. And because it's a few years old, it can be bought used for around £75-150. Although I don't own one myself, the Canon G-series cameras were recommended to me by a friend who (like me) is also a photography enthusiast.
Recommendations for more advanced cameras:
Nikon D7500 or D7200, or D7100
The Nikon D7100, D7200 and D7500 cameras are amongst the best cameras you can buy. They have a vast range of lenses available, and produce excellent image quality that is good enough for many types of professional work. (Note: I do not recommend the D7000).
Two excellent lenses that I recommend to go with the Nikon cameras are the Nikon 16-85mm f3.5 and the Nikon 16-80mm f2.8. Another good option is the 18-140mm f3.5 if you would like greater magnification.
However, all Nikon lenses are good, and there are many other cheaper options.
The D7100 originally came out in 2013, and can be bought used for about £200-300 (camera only, lens would be extra).
Nikon D3000 series or D5000 series
These are other cheaper Nikon cameras, which would also be an excellent choice, They also have a similar range of lenses available for them.
The D3000 camera can be bought used for around £100 including a standard lens, and the D5000 can be bought used for around £150 with a standard lens.
Which Camera Would I Buy?
There isn't a simple answer to this question!
If compact size and easy to carry around is your main priority, then go for the Canon G15.
If you don't mind a bigger camera, or you want the best picture quality, then go for one of the Nikon cameras.
For many years, I had both a compact camera that I carried around with me at all times, and I also had a Nikon film SLR camera that I took with me when I wanted the better picture quality.
So, there is no reason why you should choose just one camera! If you can afford it, you could get both the G15 and a Nikon DSLR!
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