Last-minute gift guide: the best compact and DSLR cameras

Sony HX50

This is the smallest and lightest camera with a 30x optical zoom — enough to

take a shot from the back of a concert hall or sports event. It handles well

and the 20.4-megapixel camera runs for 400 shots between charges.

£299; sony.co.uk

Panasonic Lumix DMC TZ40

The Lumix DMC TZ40 is very compact and pleasingly light, but still squeezes in

a 18.1-megapixel sensor and 20x zoom. Standout features include a strong

optical image stabilisation system and fast autofocus. £230; johnlewis.com

Nikon Coolpix A

This camera has a big 16-megapixel sensor borrowed from a Nikon DSLR in an

impressively slim body, and also features a bright LCD screen. The Coolpix A

has a fixed rather than a zoom lens so may be better suited to enthusiast

photographers. £750; nikon.co.uk

DSLRs

Best: Nikon D7100

At their best, Nikon’s DSLR cameras match solid performance and high-quality

specifications in an appealing case that fits the hand snugly. Perfectionist

photographers will like the viewfinder, which shows 100 per cent of what the

sensor sees, so what you see is what you get. There’s a sophisticated

51-point autofocus system handed down from a pricier Nikon, not to mention a

proficient 24.1-megapixel sensor. Battery life is excellent and the camera

performs brilliantly in a variety of situations, and there are plenty of

features to suit experienced and novice photographers alike. The large LCD

screen features lots of information and is high enough resolution to play

images back in detail. It comes with a versatile 18-105mm lens, too.

£952; johnlewis.com

Panasonic Lumix GX7

Compact system cameras like the Lumix GX7 save space because they don’t

include the mirror system, opting for an electronic viewfinder (or just an

LCD screen). The 16-megapixel Panasonic takes great shots and has lots of

technology on board, including WiFi. Price includes a 20mm lens. £930;

panasonic.co.uk

Samsung NX300

This slick compact system camera has a 20.3-megapixel sensor and a responsive

touch-sensitive screen but no viewfinder. There’s also WiFi connectivity to

upload images to a computer easily. Includes a 18-55mm lens.

£500; johnlewis.com

Canon EOS 100D

Don’t be fooled by the size, the EOS 100D is a proper DSLR — the smallest and

lightest one around. The 18-megapixel sensor is big enough to be effective

and delivers the goods. This is a great first DSLR thanks to its

straightforward operating system and unintimidating dimensions. The low

price includes an 18-55mm lens.

£439; currys.co.uk

Last-minute gift guide: the best compact and DSLR cameras