Recommend a good (secondhand) DSLR camera for my daughter (12)

[BuzzLife]

My daughter wants to get into photography and takes very good photos with my phone.
I thought about getting a bridge camera but someone said she'd be better going straight to a DSLR.
I'd like to buy something secondhand for less than 100 pounds.
Ideally something with a friendly interface that she can edit on.
Probably one of the popular brands ie
Nikon /Canon/Sony.
Any advice appreciated.

It depends how serious she is about photography. If it’s going to be a hobby and something she builds with overtime it maybe worth getting her a bridge camera before forking out more than you need to. DSLRs are expensive (and complex) so your best bet is going to be second hand, although they’re still expensive for first time camera.
I usually look on tech radar for reviews and help, have a google on dslrs for beginners and see if any match what you want and to what is listed on on this website

www.wexphotovideo.com/used-dslrs/#esp_category_sort=FSM_Rational_Price&esp_category_order=asc&esp_category_pg=1

The most expensive part is the lens and you will have to buy those separate to the link I put above as that’s for just the camera body. They do have used lenses on that website. Keep your eyes out on eBay, as you’ll most likely grab a bargain on there- just make sure seller is reputable, ask them questions about the camera on how to use so they can showcase knowledge and make sure if you purchase on there that they send it insured and trackable.

If she’s only used to taking pics on your phone at the moment I would let her maybe explore a camera that isn’t so bulky or complex it’s a lot to transition from a phone to DSLR. Maybe take her to look at them before purchasing.

Alternative would be a mirrorless camera ( can still be pricey) you can still get different lenses but they’re quicker and a lot lighter than a dslr. The bridge camera would end up being one closest to budget if you wanted to buy brand new and she will still be able to take great pictures.

Personally, I wouldn’t probably invest in DSLR just yet. I would let her explore photography and get her used to using a camera first.

If there is a camera shop (I used jessops ten years ago) nearby they sometimes Sell reconditioned cameras . Failing that if there’s a photography group/club near you there might be someone selling stuff

We're considering similar for our DD who enjoys photography with her dad. Because her dad does do semi-pro photography he's on hand to help show her the functionality (on our old point and shoot camera) and also help her see the shot before taking it. He uses a pro DSLR with a variety of lenses.

I think lots of photography is about spotting the image and a bit less about the camera equipment, certainly in the beginning. We've put off buying DD a DSLR for now while she sees if this is something she's really interested in. Our simple point and shoot has some manual functionality and DD has enjoyed exploring that without too much additional complication.

Using a DSLR in manual modes is pretty complicated to start with and takes some dedication to work out how to use it, especially if you're learning on your own.

Hello
We got DD (12) a second hand DSLR for xmas from Park Cameras. I chose one which was slightly scuffed externally, so cheaper than a pristine one. It is a Canon 550D, recommended on mumsnet incidentally (well, I think MN recommended the one before- a 400). It's a good camera, very happy.
BUT you will be lucky to get the whole thing for £100. This came in at £150 for camera and lens, but then there was a £30-40 memory card, a £25 case, a £10 manual... Keep an eye on the extras!!
I agree with the others that it is not simple to use- in our case, I knew she would be up to it because of all the effort she put into using one borrowed from my brother previously. Definitely look to borrow before if you know anyone...
She does all of her editing on the laptop- spends more time on that than with the camera tbh.
It is an investment but if she loses interest I am going to nab it!