u/EasyBreakOven — reddlx

Hello!

I have been a long lurker on this subreddit for some time but finally would like to start shooting some birds but have VERY (nearly 0) knowledge on the best camera or set up for my needs.

I have played around with my partners Coolpix P950 and of course love the zoom. But I'm looking for something more like a Sony RX 10 IV. Given they are incredibly hard to find at less than $2,500 USED, I'm now thinking maybe I should go mirrorless and get lens? I am so lost!

Any advice would be helpful.

Budget: ideally under $2K all-in (body + lens)
- Open to used lens but think I'd like a new camera (unless it's impossible with this budget)
I don't have any loyalty a brand yet but people have told me Fuji could be the way to go for the body
Wondering whether I should get a bridge camera or go mirrorless?
Open to learning but don’t want a super complicated setup for this first camera

Biggest priorities:

Longish zoom reach for birds/wildlife (would love something comparable to the RX 10 IV)
Fast autofocus
Fast shutter response
Good image quality
Preferably portable enough for travel

Thanks so much!