...Do you start an "artist" off with a full set of oil paints, easels, brushes, canvases....or do you let them begin sketching with pencil and paper. What are you trying to develop, their talent or their equipment???
To me, depends on the age of the "beginner," but a simple camera will actually develop a sense of motion, framing, light, etc. Once that is established, then go for the more advanced equipment which will then enhance the skills.
Besides, all the "bells and whistles" can be intimidating, and going through all the dials, meters, etc. and the shot missed.
Catching a shot of a sunset with a bird flying across the sun with a "brownie" can be inspirational.

Just saying...

...Do you start an "artist" off with a full set of oil paints, easels, brushes, canvases....or do you let them begin sketching with pencil and paper. What are you trying to develop, their talent or their equipment???
To me, depends on the age of the "beginner," but a simple camera will actually develop a sense of motion, framing, light, etc. Once that is established, then go for the more advanced equipment which will then enhance the skills.
Besides, all the "bells and whistles" can be intimidating, and going through all the dials, meters, etc. and the shot missed.
Catching a shot of a sunset with a bird flying across the sun with a "brownie" can be inspirational.

Just saying...

So many posts are about asking for suggestions in purchasing the correct equipment, wether it be a GAS attack, or helping a friend or newbie. And lately these posts are dealing more and more with the question of going DSLR or mirrorless. It seems to me that one important fact that no one throws out there is the age of that person in question (or target). If that person is 80, does it matter? The camera will probably outlast them. If that person is 20 or 30, or even 40 and is just getting started, why would anyone recommend they start with buying a Brownie, Twin Lens Reflex, match needle, Single Lens Reflex, or even a DSLR? If they have the cash, a newbie should be starting with today's technology, a mirrorless camera, so they won't have to go through that complete replacement expense. If they don't have the cash then it's time to start a savings plan or buy something that will physically transfer into the current mirrorless market.

As for me:
The Ansco Regent died, history, a memory. The Canon AE1-P is a perfectly good - - paperweight.
The Canon XSi, while it could be a backup, is pretty much relegated to the same fate.

So, if you are the mentor helping that person trying to get started, why not put one of those oldies of yours , hiding in a closet or drawer, in their hands to try it out for a shoot or two? Teach them the basics. Let them get the feel of something in their hands. Maybe a couple of somethings. Take them to a real brick & mortor (not Walmart or Worst Buy).

I don't care if anyone answers or not. I put this out there just to get anyone who reads it to think about it. One of the most important factors is the age of that person getting started.

Read it again. That's not what I said. In fact I ask why anyone would start a young person on old technology. Personally I think every one starting out today should start with a mirrorless. But not everyone can afford it.

I did list the four cameras I have grown up with just for your information.

And I suggested that IF you are mentoring a newbie that you might let them try using some of your old equipment just for the hands on experience so they can make a better informed choice when they buy their own.