Angsty, on a Budget, and Want to Learn Photography? Buy a Canon 6D

When I was 15, I desperately wanted to learn photography. I had a tiny Canon SX610 that was a gift from my grandmother, and that camera never left my side. But I felt like I needed something superior because I wasn’t really learning much from it. It was more a means to an end—there wasn’t much of a process to enjoy.

With money I saved from working at a local bingo hall and then deliberately investing that money in a CRISPR biotech stock, at 17, I finally had enough to buy my first camera. After doing some research, I paid about $1600 for a new Canon 6D—at the time, a mid-level DSLR and an often-overlooked model. Its original price in 2012 was $2099.

Today, you can find this same camera body for $350 on Facebook Marketplace.

Although the Canon 6D is not the best choice for new photographers because there are more modern cameras with better technical features and less of a learning curve, specifically compared to mirrorless cameras, I argue that it is still a genuinely great suggestion for the following reasons:

1. - It is an excellent choice for individuals wanting to learn photography fundamentals. Unlike modern mirrorless cameras that have supreme low-light capabilities and excellent autofocusing, the Canon 6D will force you to learn how to set your camera’s settings appropriately to capture your shot. Without eye-tracking or a touchscreen LCD, photographers must rely on precise framing, manual focus point selection, and the viewfinder. Proficiency in handling the 6D will readily translate to any newer camera.

2. - Its images have phenomenal color. Straight out of the camera, with appropriate lighting, images can appear so rich and true-to-life that they do not require any post-processing. The Canon 6D demonstrates a slight advantage in color science compared to other similar Canon cameras I've tested. Interestingly, I have seen other photographers make this claim as well; similarly-priced mirrorless cameras seem to fall short in regard to color quality. This is purely anecdotal though—photographers can be very picky and have wildly varying opinions.

3. - It is incredibly cheap in 2025. If I were starting today, I would be purchasing a camera from Canon’s R series (their mirrorless line). For the 6D’s mirrorless equivalent, the R6, that would run me about the same as what I paid for my original 6D. Aspiring amateur photographers don't need to spend a fortune. In fact, if I could go back to 2017, I would not have purchased a new camera. Reputable used cameras offer comparable value at a significantly lower cost.

4. - Using this camera is an enjoyable experience. Although it is heavier than modern mirrorless cameras, it is still ergonomic and easy to adjust to. I have never had an issue transporting my Canon 6D internationally, and it is resistant to dust and moisture (although not weatherproof).

When I began shooting with the 6D, I had no idea what I was doing. It took months to become familiar with my camera and all of its settings, and even today I am still challenging myself with new photographic techniques (focus stacking, exposure bracketing, etc.). I’ve used my Canon 6D for everything from landscapes to portraits to macros. I will likely own my Canon 6D for the rest of my life, even if it will not always be my go-to, especially once I inevitably upgrade (if anyone wants to loan me a few thousand, hit my line).

I chose to share this article because I believe many Americans are navigating a sensitive political and economic landscape currently, and creating art, regardless of medium, is a powerful outlet for venting and personal expression. Personally, I have found much solace in photography and art during difficult periods of my life. Beautiful art is often born from strong emotion, and in times of hardship, those emotions are often disproportionately negative. It is crucial we continue to create art during periods like these, and it is never too late to start.

Want to check out my photography? Visit emiliadodaphotography.com