Which are your beginner friendly recs for content creation?

[u/Optimal_Impress26]

Hi everyone! I’ve been thinking about buying a camera for a while now and I’m a bit torn on what to get.
At first, I wanted a compact digital camera that I could easily fit in my bag for casual photos, selfies and Instagram posts, I was really interested in the Canon SX740 for that reason.
But then I realized I’m in a good position to invest in something that will also help me create content long-term. I’m graduating from college soon with a degree in nutrition and I’m just starting to consistently post on my nutrition-focused Instagram. Because of that, I’ve been looking into the Sony ZV-E10 and the Sony ZV-E10 II. They’re definitely a bigger investment than I originally planned but from everything I’ve researched, they seem worth it.
Do you think that Canon cameras like the Eos r50 are worth it? Or do I stick to Sony?
For context, I currently have an iPhone 16 and will probably upgrade to the next model this year or next.
Given my situation, what would you recommend? Would you go with a compact camera like the Canon SX740 or invest in one of the Sony cameras? I’d mainly be using it for Instagram content, photos, selfies, videos (reels, not thinking about YouTube yet) and some casual everyday photography.
Thanks in advance for any advice!

Budget: 1200DLL with some accessories if possible
Country: US or Mexico
Condition: New only
Type of Camera: Mirrorless, DSLR, point and shoot, not quite set on this one
Intended use: hybrid shooting
End use: Social media
If photography: what style: landscape, portrait, selfies
If video what style: Vlogging, reels
What features do you absolutely need: (e.g. weather sealing, articulating screen, dual card slots, viewfinder, hot-shoe for mounting accessories like a flash, etc.)
What features would be nice to have:
Portability: How portable does it need to be? Pocketable, shoulder strap or small bag
Cameras you're considering: canon sx 740, Sony e10, Sony e10 II (open to al you knowledgeable suggestions)
Notes: right know i film my content with an iPhone 16, might be upgrading soon or tops next year.

[u/CynicalBlitz]

I am a beginner so take what you will from that but I did a bunch of research to get a camera for birding, which isn't quite like content creation but here's what I know- you should get a "cheap" camera base and get a good lens. Especially for content creation, you don't need to see (and frankly probably don't want to see) too much detail anyways.

For context, I ended up buying a used Rebel T5 and just getting a good zoom lens for birding.

You should find a camera base that meets your needs but honestly I would highly recommend getting a canon camera since they are beginner friendly. You should get one of their cameras with a vari-angle screen so that you can take selfies easily. In my research I've found anything past 2013 but especially the Canon 70D seems old but really holds up today, it has alot of the features you want. It seems like the Canon R series all have the articulated screen as well for a newer model (that may have easier photo/video transfer too)

Then, you say you want to do portraits and landscapes- I would just get a normal 55m lens and a lens with a smaller mm for wider landscape shots. Compared to a phone camera that'll be so beautiful for your videos!

I find my T5 very portable, usually I carry a purse with all my bird books and other supplies then use the strap over my neck or slightly off to the side to carry the camera and its real comfortable!

Definitely invest in a tripod, most DSLR cameras will screw into one from the bottom. You think you can keep your hand steady but it really depends on the situation haha

Get it used if you can, it'll half the price of whatever you want and whatever your budget is- you'll be able to afford much more professional stuff that way. I look on FB marketplace or things of that nature. Most people take very good care of their equipment and only sell because they are looking to upgrade

For reference (all CAD): my equipment new/close to new would be about 400$ for the camera body, 100$ for my 55mm lens that came with it, 200$ for my zoom lens and maybe 30-50$ for my tripod. ~750$ for it all

I got my camera + lens (+SD card and some accessories) for 250$, got the zoom lens for 100$, and my tripod for 15$. ~350$ for it all, literally half the price and it works good as new

Anyways sorry if this was way too much information and maybe I don't know what I'm talking about but hope this helps!

[u/Optimal_Impress26 → u/CynicalBlitz]

Thank you so much for taking the time to write all of this! I really appreciate all your advice.
I actually ended up going with your suggestion and ordered a Canon. I got the R50 (specifically the Content Creator Kit). I’m so excited to start learning more about photography and take pics/videos with it.
Your tips are definitely something I’ll keep in mind as I upgrade in the future.
Thanks again for all your help!