Fujifilm has revitalized its pro-level camera lineup with some exciting announcements. The star of the show was an updated version of the company’s flagship medium format camera, the GFX100 II. Fujifilm maintained the same 102-megapixel resolution of the GFX100 but made significant changes to the camera across the board. That includes a newly designed sensor, a new image processing engine, faster autofocus, and a more compact design. Despite all these upgrades, the camera comes in $2,500 cheaper than the original model, which is pretty shocking. It will still cost you $7,499, but it does mean that there isn’t much reason to purchase the GFX100 anymore.

Beyond the camera news, the company also announced a GF55mmF1.7 R WR lens, two tilt-shift lenses, and an updated lens development roadmap for its GFX system of mirrorless cameras. Fujifilm is clearly investing heavily into its medium format system.

Fujifilm GFX100 II at a glance

• Newly designed 102-megapixel 43.8 x 32.9mm BSI CMOS sensor
• X-Processor 5 Image Processor
• Weighs 2.2 pounds, which is 1 pound lighter than the GFX100
• 5-Axis sensor-shift image stabilization
• Up to 8 fps
• 4K 60p, 8K 30p video
• AI-based subject-detection autofocus with Deep Learning technology
• 20 Film simulation modes
• ISO range of ISO 80-12800

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Fujifilm GFX100 II

The most obvious change of the GFX100 II is the slimmed-down design. The camera looks much more like the slightly more affordable GFX 100S instead of its predecessor, the GFX100. Fujifilm did away with the built-in vertical grip, though you can still buy it as an add-on if you want it. The camera also offers five-axis sensor-shift image stabilization, providing up to eight stops of compensation. Combined with the more lightweight design, it will be easier to get tack sharp images even when hand-holding the camera.

Despite the smaller size, Fujifilm bumped up the quality of the viewfinder in the GFX100 II. It offers a 9.44-million-dot OLED EVF with 1.0x magnification. The GFX100 only featured a 5.76-million-dot EVF with 0.86x magnification, so that’s a significant quality increase. This viewfinder is removable, which allows you to use the EVF-TL1 tilt adapter when shooting at a lower angle. There is also a 3.2″ 2.36m-dot tilting touchscreen LCD.

The top of the camera is also significantly different. It includes a traditional mode dial and three customizable function buttons. A large display, which takes up most of the right side on the top of the camera, shows most settings that you’ll need, including exposure compensation, shooting mode, exposure settings, and more.

Sensor & processor upgrades

Fujifilm built the GFX100 II around a slew of upgraded tech. The 43.8 x 32.9mm BSI CMOS Sensor is 1.7 times the size of a 35mm sensor, which is ideal for those who want spectacular levels of detail. Though the sensor offers the same 102-megapixel resolution as the GFX100, it is newly designed. Joining the new sensor is Fujifilm’s latest fifth-generation X-Processor 5 image-processing engine. Combined, the new sensor and image processor result in double the signal readout speed. That enables faster burst shooting( 8fps compared to the 5fps of the GFX100), faster autofocus, and higher video quality.

The sensor allows for a native ISO range of 80 to 12,800, which is slightly expanded from the GFX100’s ISO 100-12,800 range. Fujifilm also explained that it optimized the photosites of the new sensor to “increase light use efficiency at the sensor’s edges, thus improving both image quality at the edges of the photo, and AF accuracy over the previous, GFX100 and GFX100S models.”

Autofocus

Fujifilm is promising significantly improved autofocus performance in the GFX100 II thanks to the new sensor and image processor. It offers Artificial Intelligence (AI) based subject-detection autofocus (AF), which is also featured in the Fujifilm X-H2S. Fujifilm says that it developed the autofocus system with Deep Learning technology and updated it with the latest prediction AF algorithm. As a result, it can now quickly detect and track animals, birds, vehicles, drones, and insects, keeping focus locked on as they move.

GFX100 II video upgrades

Fujifilm also improved the video capabilities of its new medium format camera. It can record Apple ProRes 4:2:2, 10-bit video internally at 4K 60p or 8K 30p, which is a first for a GFX System camera. For context, the GFX100 and GFX100S topped out at 4K 30p. It supports three different Apple ProRes codecs: Apple ProRes 422 HQ, Apple ProRes 422, and Apple ProRes 422 LT. It can also record Blackmagic raw, providing lots of flexibility.

You can record to the dual CFexpress Type B card slots or directly to an attached SSD via USB-C. There is also an SD card slot, but CFexpress Type B cards are necessary to take advantage of the enhanced video performance features. A full-size HDMI output is also available.

Pricing & availability

Somehow, even though Fujifilm made some massive improvements to the GFX100 II, it comes in at $2,500 cheaper than the GFX100. Of course, as a pro-grade camera, it’s still not cheap. It will be available in early fall for $7,499 and is available for pre-order now.

Tilt-shift lenses for GFX System cameras

In case the camera wasn’t enough, Fujifilm also announced two tilt-shift lenses for its GFX cameras. That includes the Fujinon GF30mmF5.6 T/S lens and Fujinon Lens GF110mmF5.6 T/S Macro lenses. They mark the first native tilt-shift lenses for GFX cameras. These tilt-shift lenses open up new creative opportunities for architectural, product, and commercial photographers.

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Fujinon GF30mmF5.6 T/S lens details

The GF30mmF5.6 T/S offers a 35mm equivalent focal length of 24mm, meaning it provides an ideal wide-angle perspective for architectural and landscape work. Fujifilm built the lens with 16 lens elements in 11 groups, including three aspherical elements, two extra-low dispersion (ED) elements, and one Super ED element. It also features the use of a large aperture aspherical, front element, and three ED elements, which Fujifilm says eliminates “the need for electronically correcting distortion and lateral chromatic aberration.” It should provide edge-to-edge sharpness even when shifting.

The lens offers tilting of ±8.5 degrees and shifting of up to ±15mm. And you can combine rotation adjustments within ±90 degrees with parallel or perpendicular tilt and shift adjustments. There is a built-in sensor in the lens, which allows you to monitor changes in Live View and also records the information in the file’s metadata.

The lens weighs 2.95 and is 5.5 inches long.

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Fujinon GF110mmF5.6 T/S Macro lens details

Fujifilm’s 100mm macro tilt-shift offers a 35mm equivalent focal length of 87mm and a maximum magnification ratio of 0.5x. Fujifilm says that the lens will deliver high levels of image resolution, making it ideal for commercial and still-life photography. It allows for tilt up to ±10 degrees and to shift up to ±15mm, along with the same rotation adjustments within ±90 degrees as the 30mm lens.

The 110mm weighs 2.77 pounds and measures 5.9 inches long.

Pricing & availability

Both of the new tilt-shift lenses will be available this fall. The GF30mmF5.6 T/S is priced at $3,999, while the GF110mmF5.6 T/S Macro will cost you $3,499. Both are available for pre-order now.

Fujinon GF55mmF1.7 R WR lens

Rounding out the announcement from the X Summit is the GF55mmF1.7 R WR lens. This lens offers a 35mm equivalent focal length of 44mm and is ideal for travel, street, and documentary photography applications. It offers a fast f/1.7 aperture, which pairs well with the recently released GF80mmF1.7 R WR lens.

The lens is made up of 14 elements in 10 groups, including aspherical and extra-low dispersion (ED) elements. The 11-blade diaphragm results in rounded bokeh, even when shooting wide open. And it Fujifilm says that it effectively controls chromatic and spherical aberrations.

Fujifilm utilized a powerful direct current (DC) motor and a GMR sensor in this lens, which ensures fast and near-silent autofocus. It should offer edge-to-edge sharpness even when using a shallow depth of field. It is also built to handle the elements, with weather-resistant seals in nine places. It weighs 1.72 pounds and measures only 3.9 inches.

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Pricing & availability

The GF55mmF1.7 R WR lens will be available early this fall for $2,299.95. It is available for pre-order now.

The post The Fujifilm GFX100 II is smaller, more capable, and yet cheaper appeared first on Popular Photography.

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Here in 2023, every camera is a hybrid camera. Even if you never shoot in video mode, it’s still an essential selling point for any major camera release simply because it has to be. And while Fujifilm’s new X-T5 mirrorless camera is no slouch when it comes to video, it truly feels like a camera designed for photographers. It’s a semi-old-school feel mixed with very modern guts, and it translates into one of the most enjoyable photographic experiences I’ve had in recent history. 

Note: All the sample images in this story were shot on an X-T5 production version. Most with the 30mm f/2.8 macro. I’ve made small adjustments to exposure.

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Specs

• 40-megapixel APS-C X-Trans sensor
• 3-inch tilting LCD display
• IBIS up to seven stops
• 6.2K video at 30 fps or 4K at 60fps (crop)
• Two UHS-II SD card slots
• 19.6-ounce weight

Pros

• Still very compact compared to full-frame models
• 40-megapixel resolution makes very satisfying files
• Maintains the unique Fujifilm color science, including film simulations
• Knobs and dials make getting around this camera easy and enjoyable
• Solid video features
• Decent battery life (with the same battery as X-T4)

Cons

• Can’t compete with the full-frame competition in very low-light
• Viewfinder also feels cramped compared to larger cameras
• No option for a vertical battery grip

X-T5 design and feel

I have been a huge fan of the Fujifilm X-T cameras all the way back since the X-T1 debuted nearly a decade ago in 2014. The X-T5 continues in the tradition of emulating an old-school film-style SLR with dedicated buttons, knobs, and dials for just about anything you could want to change on the fly. The top of the camera sports an exposure compensation dial, a shutter speed dial, and an ISO dial. Each one has a button in the middle that clicks up and down to lock and unlock the dial. Once you get used to it, it’s second nature, and the learning curve doesn’t take long. 

A lever under the shutter speed dial allows photographers to switch between continuous high, continuous low, single, bracket, and HDR drive modes. A switch under the shutter speed dial quickly switches between still and video modes. Once you learn where everything is, you can quickly do most of what you want without digging into a single menu. 

The X-series cameras promise hearty weatherproofing, and that’s the case here with the X-T5. It’s built very solidly, and you can feel that as soon as you pick it up. The dials have a nice, decisive click when you move between settings. It reminds me of my old, fully mechanical Nikon FM, which is one of the more pleasing cameras to use.

The power switch surrounds the shutter button, which has a threaded opening into which you could screw a soft release if you want. Sadly, there’s no function port on the bottom of the camera, so you don’t have the option for a battery grip. That’s one of the few things that separates the X-T5 from the $300 more expensive X-H2.

Display and viewfinder

The 3-inch display has plenty of resolution, brightness, and touch sensitivity. It tilts but doesn’t fully rotate, which is solid for photographers but not ideal for shooting video in a rig. The viewfinder took me a little getting used to. Improved optics in the viewfinder give it an excellent 0.8x magnification, but overall the viewfinder feels a little cramped when you’re coming from a full-frame mirrorless camera. It didn’t take long for me to normalize it, but if you’re coming from something with a full-frame sensor, be ready for the X-T5’s viewfinder to look a little, well…little. Still, it’s bright and refreshes quickly with very little lag, so the overall experience is very pleasant. 

Image quality

The X-T5 has made a rather large jump all the way up to 40 megapixels, which matches the X-H2 that sits above it in the lineup. The X-T4’s 26-megapixel resolution wasn’t a slouch, but the 40-megapixel files are undeniably more satisfying. When you push that spacebar in Lightroom and zoom into the pixel level, you go wonderfully deep into the image and see tons of detail. 

This is still an X-Trans sensor, so you still get the Fujifilm color science that appeals to so many photographers. I still primarily shoot Canon for my personal and professional work, so the Fujifilm colors take a little getting used to when editing from a raw file. Right out of the camera, however, I really enjoy the X-T5’s output. The colors are punchy and accurate. The film emulation modes offer an impressive array of looks straight out of the camera. And the X-T5 squeezes an impressive amount of dynamic range out of its APS-C chip.

Shooting in low-light 

When it comes to high-ISO shooting, I found the files held up fairly well until around ISO 4,000. Beyond that, things get fairly noisy compared to the (admittedly more expensive) full-frame competition. That said, the extra resolution gives editing programs much more image data with which to work, so noise reduction has a much better chance of cleaning up the image without nuking precious image data. I ran some of the higher-ISO files through Lightroom’s new AI-powered Denoise function, and the results really impressed me. 

Even printed, these files really hold up. One caveat, however. This is a high-resolution sensor, so if you’re using the cheapest Fujifilm lenses out there, they may not quite be ready for this much resolution. You may get all the pixels but find yourself disappointed with the amount of detail contained within them. 

Autofocus performance

AF hasn’t always been Fujifilm’s strong suit, but the company continues to improve. The X-T5 includes all the major AF functions you’d expect from a modern high-end camera. It has face tracking that extends to animals and other objects as well. The focusing area extends all the way across the sensor, so you can tweak the AF performance to your exact liking. 

When it comes to focus tracking, the X-T5 is quick and accurate but still lags a bit behind the other big manufacturers and their full-frame offerings. I shot some sports with the very excellent 100-400mm lens and found that the focus was OK, but even high-school athletes moved a little quickly for the X-T5 from time to time. It’s not simply point and press to let the tracking do its thing.

The X-T5 is capable of up to 15 fps, which sounds sports-friendly, but the AF tracking can be a little finicky. Early on in a burst of photos, the tracking seems to hold nicely, but it sometimes loses the subject and then ends up focusing in the wrong spot. You can see it happening as you hold the shutter down. It never became a practical issue for me in the real world, however. It only popped up while I was intentionally trying to test the limits. 

So, if you’re looking for a hardcore sports camera, this may not be the ideal option. Outside of those circumstances, however, you should be just fine. The AF kept up just fine during a normal portrait session where the subjects weren’t trying to sprint as fast as they could. 

Video features

I spent the vast majority of my time with the X-T5 testing its photographic features, but it does offer some advanced video modes with compromises. Video resolution maxes out at 6.2K, but that setting introduces a 1.23x crop in on the sensor. Native 4K and 4K at 60p also introduce crops into the sensor, which changes your lens’ angle of view. You can shoot 4K across the full sensor in a sub-sampled way, but serious video shooters in the Fujifilm system would likely be much better off spending the extra $300 or so to get an X-H2. The X-T5 doesn’t even have an onboard headphone jack without an adapter. 

That said, if you’re just shooting some video, the footage looks very nice. The in-body image stabilization does a great job of keeping things steady when shooting handheld. You have access to all the autofocus modes, all of which work very well for the most part. 

The biggest caveat when it comes to video quality is the rolling shutter. If you’re shooting fast-moving subjects, expect them to look warped. It’s not ideal. 

Who should buy the X-T5

It pained me to send the X-T5 review unit back to Fujifilm because I really enjoyed just about everything it has to offer. The jump in resolution makes the files so much more satisfying, especially on a big monitor. The straight-out of the camera jpeg files look excellent. There’s a ton of detail in each image. And it’s an absolute joy to use. This feels like a camera that should cost more than its $1,699 price tag. It’s more capable than the entry-level full-frame cameras in many regards and newer than the older-model full-frame mirrorless bodies that have dropped to this price.

During my review period, I handed the X-T5 to a friend who has only ever shot Canon. “Where is the mode dial?” It’s a valid question if you’re used to most modern mirrorless cameras. But, I informed him it doesn’t need a dedicated mode dial because the aperture ring on the lens and all the physical controls on the body itself allow you to control everything without having to specify a mode. 

“That’s awesome,” he replied. And he was right. The X-T5 is awesome in general, and it’s easy for us to recommend if you’re looking for a mirrorless camera that puts photography front and center.

More sample images from the X-T5

The post Fujifilm X-T5 review: A mirrorless camera built for photographers appeared first on Popular Photography.

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Even for people who didn’t grow up during the golden era of instant photography, there’s something nostalgic and, frankly, kind of magical about square instant prints. Now, Fujifilm has introduced its new Instax SQ40 instant film camera which dons a semi-vintage aesthetic and spits out square-format Instax prints.

Fujifilm Instax SQ40 instant film camera details

The SQ40 offers Instax film shooting with a more sophisticated look. While we appreciate the modern style of the excellent Instax SQ1, the black finish and leatherette wrap on the SQ40 make it look more like a serious camera. As the name suggests, the SQ40 shoots Instax Square film, which produces a 2.8-inch square image on a 3.4 x 2.8-inch print. This is noticeably taller than the Instax Mini and Instax Wide formats, and it mimics old-school Polaroids.

From a technical standpoint, it offers a 65mm f/12 lens. While 65mm sounds very tight for a fixed lens camera, remember that the film size is much larger, so you get a much wider angle of view here than you would with a single frame of 35mm film.

This isn’t meant to be the most technical camera. It relies on fully automatic exposure, most of the time including the built-in flash. The camera does have selfie mode (like the SQ1 and others), which allows it to focus more closely than it typically would by rotating the lens. The shutter speed ranges from 0.5 seconds up to 1/400th second, and it also allows for slow-sync flash.

Fujifilm Instax SQ40 pricing and availability

The Instax SQ40 isn’t available for order yet, but Fujifilm expects it will be ready to order by the end of June. It will cost $150, which puts it among the more expensive Instax models overall. That shouldn’t come as much of a surprise since the retro-styled Instax cameras, like the excellent Mini 90 Neo Classic, typically run around $200.

We’re looking forward to putting together a full review of the Instax SQ40 in the coming weeks. So, if you’re having a party, be sure to invite us because this seems like a really great party camera.

The post The Instax SQ40 shoots square film with retro style appeared first on Popular Photography.

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Best overall		Fujifilm X-T5		SEE IT	Tactile controls and excellent performance make this an all-around winner.
Best compact		Fujifilm X100V		SEE IT	Lots of advanced features and a great lens make a perfect everyday shooter.
Best Instax		Fujifilm Instax Square SQ1		SEE IT	The classic square format gives a retro feel with modern tech.

Fujifilm cameras run the gamut from pro-grade mirrorless cameras, to enthusiast models with advanced features, and the super-fun Instax instant film cameras. Fujifilm’s cameras are typically lighter than DSLRs, feature settings that emulate old film stocks, and have design elements that are reminiscent of old film cameras. The company offers two major lines of digital mirrorless cameras: the X series and the GFX line. The X series cameras are typically built around an APS-C sensor, while the GFX line is built around a large 43.8 by 32.9mm CMOS sensor, for delivering extremely high-resolution images. These interchangeable lens cameras use a G mount lens instead of the X mount and are aimed at a more professional market. Here’s how to determine the best Fujifilm cameras for your needs.

• Best overall: Fujifilm X-T5
• Best older model: Fujifilm X-T4
• Best compact: Fujifilm X100V
• Best medium format: Fujifilm GFX 50S II
• Best Instax: Fujifilm Instax Square SQ1
• Best for video: Fujifilm X-H2S

How we picked the best Fujifilm cameras

The PopPhoto staff has decades of photographic experience across just about every genre. We’ve tested, or at least used, just about every major camera released since the film days. These selections are based on a mixture of hands-on experience and research, which includes user reviews, professional adoption, and editorial evaluations.

For these picks, we focused on choosing models that fit specific use cases. Fujifilm offers a litany of cameras, but we chose those that would address people’s needs according to their specific budgets. We also aim to find cameras that won’t be obsolete in the near future without writing off models that might be a generation or two old but still have lots of life left in them.

Related: Best Portrait Lens: Fujifilm Lenses For Portrait Photography

The best Fujifilm cameras: Reviews & recommendations

While we make several specific recommendations here, we suggest you check out all the models, as there’s lots of overlap between the cameras. Also, if you click on something and find it out of stock at the moment, don’t be shocked. Fujifilm cameras are in high demand right now, and they can go out of stock quickly, so don’t hesitate if you’re going to make a purchase.

Best overall: Fujifilm X-T5

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Specs

• Megapixels: 40.2
• Card slots: 2 SDXC
• Lens mount: Fujifilm X
• Screen size: 3-inch
• In-body image stabilization: Yes

Pros

• High-resolution sensor captures tons of detail
• Excellent dynamic range
• Fantastic feel and tactile controls
• Expanded film simulation modes
• Up to 15 fps with mechanical shutter or 20 fps with electronic shutter
• 6.2K maximum video resolution
• Solid AF performance

Cons

• Viewfinder can feel small compared to full-frame models

The Fujifilm X-T5 is one of the most enjoyable cameras I have ever used, full-stop. It builds on the already-excellent X-T4 by adding a 40.2-megapixel sensor on par with the chip found in the upmarket X-H2. That extra resolution makes a big difference when it comes to pulling as much detail as possible out of a scene. All the tactile controls have stuck around, including an ISO dial and exposure compensation dial, both of which get used frequently. A physical switch lets you switch between shutter drive modes, which saves time compared to digging into a menu.

The body employs the familiar small SLR design, which has worked excellently for Fujifilm. The lenses have aperture rings, and there’s a physical dial for shutter speed, which makes shooting manual feel like an analog process. It’s also extremely quick and intuitive once you get the hang of it.

While this camera clearly prioritizes still images, it’s no slouch when it comes to video. The X-T5 shoots up to 6.2K video at 30 fps, or it can oversample 4K. It also offers a heap of advanced video capture formats, including F-LOG2 and Apple ProRes Raw.

The viewfinder can feel a bit small if you’re coming from a full-frame model, but it’s easy to get used to. The 3-inch touchscreen display also helps if you want to shoot with your eye away from the finder. Plus, the robust weather sealing makes it comfortable out in the elements.

For the $1,699 retail price, the X-T5 is an extremely powerful photographic and video machine that’s absolutely capable of pro-grade work without all the bulk that comes from full-frame bodies and lenses.

Best older model: Fujifilm X-T4 Mirrorless Digital Camera

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Specs

• Megapixels: 26.1
• Card slots: 2 SDXC
• Lens mount: Fujifilm X
• Screen size: 3-inch
• In-body image stabilization: Yes

Pros

• Excellent overall image quality
• Film emulation modes
• Great design and handling
• Compact and light
• Lots of tactile controls
• Up to 4K video

Cons

• Missing the extra resolution from the X-H2 or X-T5

The X-T4 is designed around a 26.1-megapixel back-side illuminated CMOS sensor and has a larger battery capacity than its predecessors in the line. It has a mechanical shutter that shoots 15fps, making it the fastest in the X series line. The 1.62 million pixel vari-angle touchscreen LCD allows you to shoot from a variety of positions and change things like focus with a simple touch. It’s easier to switch between video and photo modes on the X-T4 and the camera is capable of recording 4K/60p and Full HD/240p slow motion video. This is one of the most versatile cameras from Fujifilm and is great for all kinds of shooters while remaining incredibly compact. This one comes bundled with a 16-80mm lens to get you started shooting. 

Best compact: Fujifilm X100V

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Specs

• Megapixels: 26.1
• Card slots: 1 SDXC
• Lens mount: Fixed
• Screen size: 3-inch
• In-body image stabilization: Yes

Pros

• Super-sharp fixed prime lens
• Clever hybrid viewfinder
• Tactile controls
• Much-improved autofocus
• Full-sized APS-C sensor like you’d find in interchangeable-lens cameras
• Quiet and subtle for street photography

Cons

• Nearly impossible to find without a huge markup due to shortages

The Fujifilm X100V has a fixed 23mm F/2 lens and is built around a 26.1 megapixel CMOS 4 sensor with a quad-core CPU, while only weighing 1.05 pounds. It has excellent autofocus down to lighting conditions of -5EV, and has a hybrid viewfinder that allows shooters to easily swap between 0.52x magnification OVF and its 3.69M-dot OLED EVF. The camera isn’t much bigger than a smartphone, making it easy to take with you wherever you are headed and is a discrete tool for street photography. An optional lens adapter adds weather-sealing protection to the camera too.

Best medium-format: Fujifilm GFX 50S II

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Specs

• Megapixels: 50
• Card slots: 2 UHS-II SD
• Lens mount: Fujifilm G
• Screen size: 3.2-inch
• In-body image stabilization: Yes

Pros

• Sensor is larger than a full-frame for capturing more detail and depth of field effects
• Great for adapting high-end old lenses
• In-body stabilization offsets the size
• Fantastic color and dynamic range
• Intuitive controls
• G-mount lenses are superb (if pricey)

Cons

• Much bulkier than X-series camera
• Pricy

Fujifilm’s GFX line features cameras that are designed with the professional shooter in mind and the price point reflects that. The Fujifilm GFX 50S II is built around a 51.4 megapixel CMOS sensor—approximately 1.7 times larger than a standard full-frame sensor—and because of that can produce extremely high-resolution images. The camera has 14-stops of dynamic range, a minimum ISO sensitivity of 100, in-camera RAW conversion to an 8-bit TIFF format, and a number of beautiful Fujifilm film simulation modes. It features a detachable 3.69M-dot EL electronic viewfinder and a 2.36M-dot three-directional tilting touchscreen LCD.

Best Instax: Fujifilm Instax Square SQ1

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Specs

• Megapixels: N/A
• Card slots: N/A
• Lens mount: Fixed
• Screen size: N/A
• In-body image stabilization: N/A

Pros

• Stylish design
• classic-style square film format
• Selfie mirror on the front for composing
• Light and easy to carry
• Fully auto exposure is great for parties

Cons

• Film can get expensive
• Manual controls aren’t there if you want them

Photography is meant to be joyful and Fujfilm’s Instax Square SQ1 is designed with that in mind. The Instax Square SQ1 shoots square format Instax film, is easy to use, and has a stylish design that comes in a variety of colors. Because it’s made of plastic, it’s cheaper than the mirrorless cameras on this list, making it a great gift for the photographer in your life. It features a retractable 65.75mm lens, fully-automatic exposure control, a selfie mirror on the front of the lens, and a special selfie mode. It’s powered by two CR2 lithium batteries and shoots on Instax Square Format film, which comes 10 frames per pack.

Best for video: Fujifilm X-H2S

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Specs

• Megapixels: 26.2
• Card slots: 2 UHS-II SD
• Lens mount: Fujifilm X
• Screen size: 3-inch
• In-body image stabilization: Yes

Pros

• Stacked shutter reads out extremely quickly which makes the electronic shutter more useful
• Up to 4K at 120 fps capture in some modes
• Up to 14 stops of dynamic range
• Excellent high-ISO performance
• Advanced video formats (F-Log or F-Log2, Apple ProRes RAW, and Blackmagic RAW) available through an external recorder and HDMI

Cons

• The most advanced video capture modes require a specific external recorder like the Atomos V+

Rather than cranking up the resolution north of 40 megapixels like the X-T5 and the X-H2, the X-H2S maintains the 26.1-megapixel resolution many Fujifilm fans had already grown accustomed to. This isn’t a typical Fujifilm sensor, however. It’s a stacked sensor, which means it has computing elements integrated directly into the chip to allow for faster readout. That’s good news for shooters who want to capture fast action without wobbly distortion happening in their images.

The camera body is basically identical to the standard X-H2, which is a good thing. It has a 3-inch tilting touchscreen display and ample tactile controls. The X-H2S offers an expanded ISO range (up over 51,000 on the top end) and exceptional low-light performance for an APS-C sensor.

The X-H2S really shines in video capture mode. It can’t pull down 8K video, but you don’t really need it to. It can, however, capture 4K video at up to 120 fps. If you add an external recorder into the mix, you unlock more advanced formats, including F-Log or F-Log2, Apple ProRes RAW, and Blackmagic RAW footage. You can push the boundaries even more and capture F-Log or F-Log2 in resolutions of up to 6.2K in Apple ProRes RAW 1 and Blackmagic RAW 2 if you pair it with an Atomos V+ recorder and BlackMagic Design Video Assist Monitor. Even without all of that extra gear, the video capture is still the best that Fujifilm cameras offer. It really just depends on how far you want to go into the cinematic realm.

Related: Best Instant Cameras: Polaroids, Instax, and more

Features to consider when picking a Fujifilm camera

Fujifilm currently offers over 20 digital cameras between its X series mirrorless cameras, GFX medium format cameras, and Finepix line, and even more when you include all of the Instax cameras. Don’t let the sheer amount of cameras overwhelm you—with a little bit of research, you should have no trouble finding the best Fujifilm cameras for you. 

The highest-end Fujifilm cameras are found in the GFX line and include the GFX100, GFX50S, and GFX50R. The GFX50S and GFX50R are medium-format mirrorless cameras that are built around a large CMOS sensor and deliver extremely high-resolution images. The GFX50R is a rangefinder-style camera, while the GFX50S has an SLR focusing system. The GFX100 is a large format mirrorless digital camera that can shoot 102MP images. The cameras in the GFX are designed with a professional shooter in mind, and the price points reflect that. 

Within Fujifilm’s X series line, you will find the greatest diversity in price points and camera functionality. The Fujifilm X series line features cameras with interchangeable lenses for professionals and amateurs and fixed lens premium compact cameras. 

On the Instax side of things, you will find cameras and printers with much lower price points that print Instax instant film in credit-card-sized formats and larger square formats. The Instax cameras are simple to use, extremely fun, and leave you with a tangible picture for sharing.

FAQs

Last thoughts about selecting the best Fujifilm cameras for you

• Best overall: Fujifilm X-T5
• Best older model: Fujifilm X-T4
• Best compact: Fujifilm X100V
• Best medium format: Fujifilm GFX 50S II
• Best Instax: Fujifilm Instax Square SQ1
• Best for video: Fujifilm X-H2S

Fujifilm has a variety of excellent mirrorless cameras in its lineup, so selecting the best Fujifilm cameras depends a lot on your personal preferences as a photographer. Fujifilm cameras are designed in a way that makes them feel more like a traditional film camera, which many photographers think makes them a lot more enjoyable to take pictures with. They have an easy-to-navigate menu system, a number of beautiful in-camera film simulations that will likely cut down on your post-processing time, and they continue to offer regular firmware updates to older cameras in the line. That way, you can recapture the joy of photography with a Fujifilm mirrorless camera and feel confident your investment will be relevant for years to come.

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best Fujifilm cameras for 2023: Tested & reviewed appeared first on Popular Photography.

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Do you like cameras made for vlogging? We hope so, because there have been a ton of new ones lately from Canon, Sony, and pretty much everybody else. And now Fujifilm has joined the list with its latest announcement. The Fujifilm X-S20 replaces the plucky X-S10 that came before it and offers upgrades across the board, including its AF system and a battery with basically double the capacity of its predecessor. It also now boasts a dedicated “Vlog Mode,” which allows for product-priority autofocus and augmented touchscreen controls. Even if you’re not a vlogger, the small form factor and current-gen hardware make this an appealing hybrid camera for photos and video.

Fujifilm X-S20 at a glance

• 26.1-megapixel X-trans APS-C sensor
• New AI-powered autofocus system detects animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes, trains, insects, and drones
• New NP-W235 battery offers double the capacity of the X-S10
• Five-axis IBIS mechanism offers up to 7.0-stops of shake reduction
• Records up to 6.2K/30p video internally or 4K/60p through USB-C to an external recorder
• $1,299 for the body alone

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Fujifilm X-S20 features

The sensor inside of the X-S20 hasn’t changed all that much from the X-S10 that came before it, but this camera does come toting an updated image processor, which helps explain some of the video upgrades. The camera’s form factor isn’t very different either, but that was already one of the X-S10’s strong suits.

While the hardware hasn’t changed all that much, you will notice a tangible difference in terms of autofocus performance. The AI-powered AF system now detects and tracks specific objects like people, animals, and vehicles that shooters often photograph. That AF performance persists in video mode and in Fujifilm’s new upgraded Auto mode, which analyzes a scene and applies what it thinks will work best in terms of exposure and focus tracking.

The upgraded in-body image stabilization mode promises up to seven stops of shake reduction when used in concert with specific lenses. This tech also works for both photos and videos.

Video upgrades

We’ll get this out of the way right up front: The camera has a headphone jack. In terms of recording modes, the camera can pull down 6.2K/30p footage. Add an external recorder, and it can go up to 1080/240p or 4K/60p. The camera also has a few device-specific recording modes, as outlined in the press release. “When combined with an ATOMOS HDMI device, RAW video output from the X-S20 can be recorded as 12-bit Apple ProRes RAW at resolutions up to 6.2K and frame rates up to 29.97fps. When combined with Blackmagic Design Video Assist 12G, RAW video output from X-S20 can be recorded as Blackmagic RAW at resolutions up to 6.2K and frame rates up to 29.97fps.”

The video modes are solid for a one-pound camera, but relying on external recording devices on a camera this small defeats the purpose just a little. Still, it’s a pretty flexible little rig at this size and price.

Fujifilm X-S20 price and release date

The X-S20 will start shipping at the end of June 2023. The body alone will cost $1,299. A kit with the FUJINON XC15-45mmF3.5-5.6 OIS PZ Lens costs $1,399. And the kit with the FUJINON XF18-55mmF2.8-4 R LM OIS Lens (which is probably the best deal if you don’t already have that lens) will cost $1,699. We’re looking forward to putting together a full review in the coming months.

The post The Fujifilm X-S20 mirrorless camera offers a big battery and vlogging features appeared first on Popular Photography.

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Update: This is showing up much more expensive for some people in different areas. If you log into your Walmart account, it may drop down to the price below, but you may have to have it shipped to the store or go pick it up.

Film has gotten more expensive lately, and some stocks have been just plain hard to find. But Walmart has 3-packs of Fujicolor Superia X-TRA 400 in stock right now for $25 with free shipping. Some stores even have it in stock if you want to go pick it up. My local store has six three-packs at the moment.

Fujifilm Fujicolor Superia X-TRA 400 $24.98 per 3-pack of 36 exposures

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It has been a bit since I’ve seen film on big box store shelves, but Walmart seems to be flush with these 3-packs at the moment. Superia X-TRA 400 is a vibrant film with a relatively chunky grain and a long shelf life. The current 400-speed stock bears a striking resemblance to Kodak’s popular Ultra Max 400 film, which is currently very hard to find and considerably more expensive than these Fujifilm rolls.

While these 3-packs were cheaper than this just a few years ago, they’re not considerably more expensive just about everywhere else. And that’s if you can find them in stock at all. So, go and grab some to keep feeding those film cameras.

The post Walmart has Fujifilm Superia X-TRA 400 35mm film in-stock for very cheap right now appeared first on Popular Photography.

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Best mirrorless		Leica Q2		SEE IT	Style and performance at a price.
Best overall		Fujifilm XPro3		SEE IT	Analog styling with a unique viewfinder.
Best compact		Sony RX100 VII		SEE IT	Ultra-compact with an impressive zoom lens.

Street photography is all about thinking on your feet, being discreet, and keeping your eyes open. When it comes to picking the best street photography cameras, you will want something that has quick autofocus, a fast shutter speed, and most importantly, a low profile.

The best street photographers are known for capturing the amusing details of the world around them, so it’s helpful to carry a camera and lens that will draw the least amount of attention—leave the long telephoto at home! The last thing you want to do is alter the scene because a subject realizes you are out there shooting. You’ll also want to look for something lightweight. A big part of street photography is standing around and waiting for those special moments to happen, and you don’t want to wreck your shoulders in the process.

• Best overall: Fujifilm XPro3
• Best upgrade compact: Leica Q2
• Best compact: Sony RX100 VII
• Best fixed-lens digital compact: Ricoh GR IIIx
• Best DSLR: Canon EOS 6D Mark II
• Best rangefinder: Leica M11
• Best budget film compact: Olympus XA2

How we picked the best street photography cameras

When selecting the products featured in this guide, we considered features like autofocus capabilities, camera body design, image quality, and of course, price. 

Although any camera can technically be used for street photography, in our experience it’s best to have something with an understated profile that will allow the photographer to blend into the crowd and capture the world as it goes by. It’s a major reason why most of the picks are mirrorless cameras or high-end compacts. We also wanted to represent products that could fit into any photographer’s budget, from the high-end Leica Q2 to the affordable Fujifilm XA-7. 

The final consideration when writing this guide on the best street photography cameras was picking products that we’ve actually used in the field. Each of the cameras that are featured in this buying guide are ones we have tested over the years, used on jobs, or spent an afternoon demoing in the field.

The best street photography cameras: Reviews & Recmomendations

Best overall: Fujifilm XPro3

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Why it made the cut: The XPro3 is a digital, mirrorless camera with an analog vibe. The hidden LCD touchscreen allows the photographer to focus on composing through the camera’s viewfinder. It might feel antiquated, but it doesn’t get better than this for a focused street shooter.  

Specs: 

• 26.1 MP sensor
• Hybrid 0.5x OVF, 3.69M-dot OLED EVF
• Hidden tilting touchsceen

Pros

• Same tech specs as the X-T3
• Hidden touchscreen 
• Attractive built-in film presets 
• 4K video capabilities

Cons 

The Fujifilm XPro3 was designed to appeal to street photographers making it our choice for the best street photography camera overall. The hidden flip-down touchscreen is inherently divisive. But, if you are the kind of shooter who loves to keep your eye to the viewfinder, this is the camera for you. It’s one of the few digital cameras on the market that requires you to think like a film shooter. It also has mega-style points. 

The XPro3 has titanium top and bottom plates and tactile accents reminiscent of a film camera. The film-stock monitor is also undeniably cool. In addition, the unique viewfinder gives you the ability to see outside of the frame, an excellent tool for planning when to hit the shutter while keeping an eye on the action around you. 

When paired with a prime lens, this mirrorless option is quite compact. It can convert RAW files to TIFFs in-camera, and most importantly, is a joy to shoot with. Of course, the XPro3 isn’t going to be the best camera for every genre of photography, but for street photography, we think it’s perfect.

Best upgrade compact: Leica Q2

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Why it made the cut: The Leica Q2 is a well-built mirrorless fixed-lens camera, capable of creating beautiful RAW photos at ISO as low as 50, thanks to the 47 MP sensor. Although it’s undoubtedly pricy, this camera is highly capable. It feels good in your hands, and it’s undeniable that Leica has long been a favorite of street photographers. 

Specs: 

• 47 MP sensor
• 28mm fixed lens 
• Fixed 3” LCD screen 

Pros 

• Weather sealed body 
• Shoots beautiful RAW photos
• Fast, fixed F/1.7 lens

Cons 

• Expensive 

The Leica Q2 is a full-frame camera with a 28mm fixed lens built around a 47.3 megapixel sensor. It has a similar look and feel as Leica’s M rangefinder cameras. In addition, it can shoot 4K UHD video, has a dust and water-resistant build, and features Bluetooth for easier image sharing on the fly. 

The ISO range is 50-50,000 (thanks to that massive sensor), and it has a beautiful EVF that makes this ideal for street shooting. The Q2 is a brilliant camera and a worthy investment for any street photographer if your budget allows it.

Best compact: Sony RX100 VII

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Why it made the cut: The ultra-compact Sony RX100 is on its 7th iteration, and every version just keeps getting better. Built around a 20 MP 1” sensor with an impressive 24-200mm lens, the RX100 features a ton of manual controls typically found in larger mirrorless cameras. This is one powerful pocket-sized camera. 

Specs: 

• 24-200mm lens 
• 20 MP 1” sensor 
• 3” tilting LCD screen 

Pros

• Pocket sized compact
• Pop-up OLED viewfinder
• Built-in mic input for video 

Cons 

• Not great in low light
• No mic mount

The Sony RX100 VII is one of the most capable compact cameras on the market. It has excellent autofocus, a lens with an impressive zoom range, and tons of customizable options. This gives users way more control than a typical compact camera. In addition, since it’s so small, it’s easy to take anywhere and remain inconspicuous, an important thing to consider when shopping for a street photography camera. 

The clever pop-up viewfinder lets you compose images with your eye to the camera, a rare luxury in the world of compact cameras. It also features Sony’s impressive real-time tracking tech, which is excellent for holding focus on your subjects as they walk through the streets. Although its low-light capabilities are limited, this is a great pocket-sized companion for shooting during the daytime.

Best fixed-lens digital compact: Ricoh GR IIIx

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Why it made the cut: Based on a classic film camera, this fixed-lens compact has a super-sharp lens and a very inconspicuous body.

Specs:

• 40mm fixed lens
• Compact body
• 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor

Pros

• Large sensor inside makes for excellent image quality
• Sharp, versatile 40mm lens
• Extremely pocket-friendly

Cons:

• No zoom
• Just OK autofocus

The original Ricoh GR film cameras attained cult status in the film photography world for their small, inconspicuous bodies and their extremely sharp lenses. The GR IIIx follows in that tradition. Instead of the typical 28mm lens you’d expect from previous models, it employs a more versatile 40mm lens, which makes it more capable when it comes to tighter portraits or detail shots where you want to keep the focus on a single subject. Its APS-C sensor allows it to pull of some actual shallow depth of field. It’s something you’ll want to use relatively sparingly in street photography where you typically want to keep most of the scene in focus, but it’s great to have as an option. Its magnesium alloy body makes it tough enough that it can survive while shoved in a pocket or a bag as an everyday carry. It looks and feels like the original and that’s a great thing in this instance.

Best DSLR: Canon EOS 6D Mark II

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Why it made the cut: This entry-level DSLR has a relatively lightweight body while still offering a full-frame 26 MP CMOS sensor. It has responsive autofocus, an optical viewfinder with 45-point all-cross-type AF options, and can shoot up to 6.5 fps.

Specs:

• 26 MP CMOS sensor
• Mid-size DSLR 
• 3” full-articulating LCD screen 

Pros

• Large, bright LCD screen
• Compact size 
• Good autofocus 

Cons

• No viewfinder 

Although it’s not the most exciting camera on the list, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II is a highly capable DSLR with a reasonable price tag compared to higher-end full-frame DSLRs. 

Its image quality is impeccable, and it’s a more versatile option than some of the other options on this list. Although we wouldn’t typically recommend a DSLR for street shooting, the 6D has a small enough profile when paired with a nice pancake lens or a nifty-fifty to make it suitable for the genre. 

This well-built choice is easy to use and has an impressive autofocus system for nailing your shots.

Best rangefinder: Leica M11

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Why it made the cut: Leica hasn’t done much to change the M-series design since it debuted back in the ’50s, which is a good thing. It’s quiet, inconspicuous, and produces absurdly beautiful photos.

Specs:

• 60-megapixel sensor
• Rangefinder
• Uses M-mount lenses

Pros

• Cool triple resolution sensor lets shooter prioritize resolution or dynamic range
• Perfect handling as with most Leica M cameras
• Sturdy build
• Uses iconic M-mount lenses

Cons

• Extremely pricy
• No autofocus

If you want to shoot like a classic street photographer, you can’t go wrong with a Leica M-series rangefinder. The new M11 has decidedly modern guts that can churn out 60-megapixel raw files in the easy-to-edit DNG format. The new M11, however, also offers 33- and 18-megapixel settings that still use the whole sensor and emphasize dynamic range over pure resolution. Even with the fancy electronics inside, the M11 stays true to the M legacy which started back in the 1950s. The M11 looks like the rangefinders that came before it and handles like one, too. The shutter is nearly silent and the manual focus lenses allow for zone focusing, which is as pure as it gets when it comes to shooting on the streets. Of course, you’ll need to set aside some considerable cash to get one, and even then, you’ll still need room in the budget for a lens. But, if you’ve recently sold some NFTs of hipster cats or whatever and you’re flush with cash, this camera is hard to beat. – Stan Horaczek

Best budget film compact: Olympus XA2

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Why it made the cut: This manual-focusing film camera costs considerably less than some of its AF competition. Plus, it’s tiny, inconspicuous, and produces truly impressive image quality.

Specs:

• 35mm film
• Manual focus
• Attached 35mm f/3.5 lens

Pros

• Tiny enough to fit in a pocket
• Very sharp lens
• Sliding design protects the lens
• Mostly mechanical

Cons

• No autofocus
• Can be tough on big hands
• Flash is an external add-on

At first glance, the XA2 almost looks like a toy camera. In reality, it’s an impressive little camera with surprising street photography. chops. It doesn’t autofocus, but it does have an easy-to-use zone focusing scale, which allows for easy shooting from the hip. Rather than relying on the camera’s AF sensor to find and focus on the subject, you simple set the focus distance and get your subject to fall into that range. It’s an old school technique that’s fun and satisfying when you nail it. It has a tiny optical viewfinder and a 35mm f/3.5 lens that’s extremely sharp when you nail the focus. The flash comes as an additional component that attaches to the side of the camera rather than the top. This is a true classic and it will only set you back a fraction of the price when compared to trendier and more popular models like the Olympus Stylus Epic (MJU II) or the astronomically priced Contax T2. – Stan Horaczek

Things to consider when looking for the best street photography cameras

When shooting out on the street, it’s important to be quick. Street photography is about capturing those fleeting moments in life, so you will want a camera with speedy autofocus and a fast shutter speed. Intuitive controls for switching settings without having to remove your eye from the camera’s viewfinder are also very important. A camera with a fast burst mode can be useful if you are just starting with street photography. The best street photography cameras will allow you to capture multiple images from the same scene, giving you the opportunity to choose your best shot during the editing process.  

Although we live in an era where everyone has a camera in their pocket, and it’s not unusual to see people whip out their smartphones and snap a picture, a true street photographer does their best work by being discreet. A lightweight camera will allow you to blend in without being noticed. Plus, it will keep your shoulders from aching after a long day of shooting. So look for something with a low-profile body and short lens. For this reason, mirrorless cameras or high-end compacts can be great options for street photographers. 

A mid-range lens will serve you well for shooting street photography. While 35mm is considered the classic for street photographers, something slightly wider or tighter can provide a unique perspective for this shooting style. Ideally, though, you want to stay within the 24mm-50mm range. Many street photographers love a fixed lens for this genre. It keeps them focused on composing and forces them to zoom with their feet. Generally speaking, a fixed focal length will also have a wider aperture range, allowing you to shoot fast, even in darker lighting conditions.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best street photography cameras

When selecting the best street photography cameras, it’s important to consider things like weight and autofocus capabilities. Ultimately you want to go with something that you can use discreetly and intuitively, but also something that is fun to work with. Street photography is all about seeing the world and you want a camera that will help you do that by acting as an extension of your eyes. The cameras in this guide certainly do just that. 

The post The best street photography cameras in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

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Best for portraits		Kodak Portra 400		SEE IT	Get beautiful skin tones with this film.
Best for landscapes		Kodak Ektar 100		SEE IT	Bring out the most of your landscape photos.
Best color slide film		Fujifilm Fujichrome Velvia 50		SEE IT	A great film for colorful situations.

Color film was one of the most popular photography products in the pre-digital era. If you were born before the early 2000s, chances are the images that you associate with your family memories were all shot on color film. Film comes in a variety of speeds and formats, and selecting the best film stocks for you depends a lot on what you plan to shoot, the time of day you will be shooting, and what camera equipment you will be using. But no matter what you are looking for or your experience level, the best color film will help bring your visions to life.

• Best for portraits: Kodak Portra 400
• Best for landscapes: Kodak Ektar 100
• Best color slide film: Fujifilm Fujichrome Velvia 50
• Best for the experimental photographer: KONO Manufaktur ORIGINAL SUNSTROKE 200
• Best budget: Kodak Gold 200

The best color film: Reviews & recommendations

Best for portraits: Kodak Portra 400

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Kodak Portra 400 is a popular choice for portrait photographers because of the way it renders skin tones. It’s a versatile film stock that offers a fair amount of leniency when it comes to exposures, making it a great option for photographers who are just getting started shooting film. It’s a bit more expensive than the color rolls you might find on the shelf in a drugstore, but the results are beautiful. Some photographers like to intentionally over or under-expose it to change the look. 

Best for landscapes: Kodak Ektar 100

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This C-41 film stock from Kodak is reminiscent of the vivid colors typically only found in color slide film but at a cheaper price point. This low-speed option has a very fine grain and reproduces color in a way that is closer to what you get with a digital camera. It’s available in both 35mm and 120 so it will work with whatever camera gear you have, even if you’ve stepped up to a medium format film camera.

Best color slide film: Fujifilm Fujichrome Velvia 50

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Fujifilm’s Velvia stock is the best if you are interested in shooting dramatic landscapes, but it’s also an excellent option for capturing vibrant spring and summer days. Color slide film isn’t as lenient when it comes to exposures, is one of the pricier options on the market, and is typically more expensive to process, but in the right lighting conditions, the results are beautiful. Fujifilm has been slowly paring back its film offerings, so if you want to give it a try, we recommend you do it sooner than later.

Best for the experimental photographer: KONO Manufaktur ORIGINAL SUNSTROKE 200

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This is a film stock made for photographers who prefer things to get a little funky. It is a color-negative film with bright, warm colors. What makes it unique is the light leak effects that come already on the film, no faulty camera is needed. The effect is created by hand using The Reanimator device that Kono developed in-house. It will vary on each frame, giving you unexpected results.

Best budget: Kodak Gold 200

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This medium-speed, daylight-balanced film is one of the most affordable films you can find. It’s typically sold in multi-packs and averages about $5 per roll. The colors won’t be as vibrant as some of the other film stocks on the market—it’s much more subtle—but when it’s exposed well it does have a very pleasant warm vibe to it. It also comes in 24-shot rolls as opposed to 36, which is handy if you like to change film frequently or it takes you a long time to work a roll through your 35mm film camera.

Things to consider before buying color film

For a variety of reasons, film photography has once again become very popular. Whether you are completely new to shooting film, or an experienced film shooter returning to the medium, there are a handful of things to consider when looking at film stocks.

Color-negative film versus color slide film 

Film stocks come in two major varieties—those that are developed with C-41 chemicals and color reversal (or slide film), which is developed by using E-6 processing. Film developed using C-41 will produce a standard negative, while color slide films create a positive version of the film once it is developed. E-6 film is typically more expensive and isn’t as forgiving when it comes to exposures. It can also be difficult to find labs that process slide film. For an interesting effect, color slide film can be developed using C-41 chemicals, and color negatives can be developed using E-6. This is called cross-processing and will shift the colors and increase the contrast of the film. 

One of the most appealing aspects of shooting with color-negative film is that it typically is very forgiving when it comes to over-exposures. If you are new to film photography this is helpful because it means that even if you aren’t nailing perfect exposures while shooting, your images will still turn out. It’s one of the reasons that disposable point-and-shoot cameras typically come loaded with a roll of color-negative film. Using a film camera that has automatic metering and a pop-up flash will certainly help keep things properly exposed, but most film stocks are forgiving enough that you will be okay even if you are using a fully manual camera. Slide film offers extremely rich colors but is decidedly less forgiving.

Film size

35mm film is the most popular of film sizes and what you will want to use if your film camera is an SLR, a point-and-shoot, or most rangefinders. Most films also regularly come in the 120 format, which is the correct size if you are shooting with a medium format camera. 

Film speed

There are many film varieties and they typically differ in speed and the ways in which it reproduces colors. Film speed, also known as ASA, is similar to setting the ISO on your digital camera. A slow-speed 50 film will need to be used in bright sunny conditions, while a 400-speed film can be shot indoors or outdoors. As film speed increases, so will the film’s grain. The majority of films fall somewhere between 160-800 ASA. 

Before loading a roll into your camera you should consider what you will be shooting and what the lighting conditions might be like. If you are planning on shooting your roll of film inside, you will probably want to avoid something with a slow ASA speed and opt for a 400-speed roll of film instead. Underexposed images on film tend to look washed out and grainy.

Color pallet

The other thing to consider when selecting the right film for you is the color pallet. Every film stock renders colors a bit differently. Color slide film is typically known for its bright, saturated colors, for which many shooters consider it the best choice for landscapes. A 400-speed film like Kodak Portra is typically the best film for portraits because of the way it renders skin tones. Consumer films will typically be the best for beginners because of the neutral color reproduction and the cheap price.

FAQs

Final thoughts about color film

If you are just getting started with film photography, choosing an inexpensive film stock with an ASA range between 200-400 is an excellent place to start. As you get more comfortable with your camera and shooting color film you should experiment with lower-speed films, color slide film, and more experimental film stocks. This type of photography is a fun and versatile way to create beautiful memories.

• Best for portraits: Kodak Portra 400
• Best for landscapes: Kodak Ektar 100
• Best color slide film: Fujifilm Fujichrome Velvia 50
• Best for the experimental photographer: KONO Manufaktur ORIGINAL SUNSTROKE 200
• Best budget: Kodak Gold 200

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best color film of 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

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The best used Sony mirrorless		Sony A6000		SEE IT	This venerable camera is still in Sony’s current lineup.
The best used Fujifilm compact		Fujifilm X-100T		SEE IT	It’s still easily pocketable and very capable.
The best used Canon DSLR		Canon 5D Mark III		SEE IT	The camera of the year 2012 still holds its own.

New cameras are exciting. With every new generation, manufacturers add more pixels, faster autofocus systems, and heaps of other features designed to tempt you into plunking down your credit card. While we love to nerd out about the most recent releases, the truth is that there are tons of wonderful older cameras on the secondary market that will handle all of your photographic needs for a fraction of the price. 

You can’t just go blindly into the used market, however. This guide outlines some of the best used values for various camera brands. So, whether you’re looking for an affordable way to upgrade your current camera or you want to secure a backup to your main body without obliterating your budget, these options are worth a look. 

• The best used Canon DSLR: Canon 5D Mark III
• The best used Canon APS-C mirrorless camera: Canon EOS M100
• The best used pro-level Canon DSLR: Canon 1D X Mark II
• The best used Nikon full-frame DSLR: Nikon D750
• The best used Nikon APS-C DSLR: Nikon D7200
• The best used Fujifilm mirrorless camera: Fujifilm X-T2
• The best used Fujifilm compact camera: Fujifilm X100T
• The best used full-frame Sony: Sony A7 II
• The best used Sony compact camera: Sony RX100 V
• The best used Sony APS-C camera: Sony A6000
• The best used Olympus camera: Olympus E-M1 Mark II
• The best used Panasonic mirrorless camera: Panasonic GH5

The best used cameras to buy: Reviews & recommendations

With the basics out of the way, we’ll dive into some extremely capable camera models that are currently available on the secondary market. It’s broken down by brand. 

The best used Canon DSLR: Canon 5D Mark III

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Why we picked it: Canon’s rugged DSLR is built like a tank and still works as a great backup for wedding and event shooters. 

Specs

• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Resolution: 22.3-megapixels
• Shutter life rating: 150,000

Pros

• Strong weatherproofing
• Decent video capture
• Familiar Canon controls
• Advanced AF options

Cons

• Underwhelming megapixel count
• Mismatched CF and SD card slots

The original Canon 5D was the first commercial DSLR to offer a full-frame sensor. That body (and the follow up 5D Mark II) feel old by now, but the 5D Mark III still has lots to offer, especially when you consider how cheaply you can find them online. 

The 5D Mark III offers a respectable 22.3-megapixel resolution and very solid low-light performance for its time. It also includes a wide selection of autofocus customizations, so you can tweak its performance much like you can with the newer 5D Mark IV or 1D X models. 

This camera was a staple for photojournalists and other working photographers for half a decade before the 5D Mark IV debuted. The Mark III’s super-rugged construction, fast AF, and excellent image quality still hold up, especially when you consider that its secondary market price makes it cheaper than many current APS-C models with fewer features and more plastic in their construction. It’s also a lot cheaper than the Mark IV on the current market.

The best used Canon APS-C mirrorless camera: Canon EOS M100

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Why we picked it: It feels like a true compact camera in your hands and has a flip-forward screen that’s great for blogging. 

Specs

• Sensor size: APS-C
• Resolution: 24.2 megapixels
• Shutter life rating: 100,000

Pros

• Weighs less than a pound with a lens
• Flip-forward screen for video
• Very affordable

Cons

• Canon M lenses have limited options
• No eye-level viewfinder

To look at Canon’s EOS M100, you might think it’s a typical compact camera with fixed optics. It’s actually a system camera, however, that employs Canon’s interchangeable lenses. While native M lenses are somewhat limited, Canon sells a simple adapter that makes it compatible with its enormous back catalog of EF DSLR lenses. 

The camera itself is tiny (4.3 x 2.6 x 1.4 inches), but the 3-inch, 1.04-million dot LCD flips all the way up to the front of the camera so vloggers can see themselves as they set up shots or walk-and-talk. It doesn’t shoot 4K, but it will pull down 1080p video up to 60 fps, which makes for smooth, clear shots. 

Plus, the 24-megapixel sensor is equipped with Canon’s Dual Pixel AF, which makes focusing quick and accurate during both still and video shooting. 

It won’t compete with Canon’s full-frame EOS R mirrorless cameras, but it’s not meant to. 

The best used pro-level Canon DSLR: Canon 1D X Mark II

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Why we picked it: Compare the specs on Canon’s 1DX Mark II to the updated Mark III and you’ll find that the older model is really similar in many ways. 

Specs

• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Resolution: 20.2 megapixels
• Shutter life rating: 400,000

Pros

• Super-fast 14 fps burst rate with AE and AF
• Tank-like durability
• Super-high battery capacity
• Built-in vertical grip

Cons

• Heavy
• Still relatively pricy
• Mismatched card slots

Flagship DSLRs are built to withstand heavy punishment and the 1D X Mark II is no exception. It’s meticulously weather-sealed and the shutter is rated for roughly 400,000 actuations. That’s a good thing because the camera can pump out 14 fps at full resolution with auto exposure and autofocus with the fastest shooting mode selected. 

The autofocus system is extremely fast thanks to its dual cross-type AF points and pages upon pages of autofocus customization options to match your specific shooting scenarios. 

This machine will still cost you a pretty penny on the secondary market, but it will also likely last a long time. And even if you’re thinking about moving to a fancy Canon mirrorless camera like the R5, the 1D X Mark II’s AF system will outperform it in some instances. This thing is still a beast and will stay that way for a long time. 

The best used Nikon full-frame DSLR: Nikon D750

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Why we picked it: Despite its age, the D750 feels surprisingly current, even when you compare its specs on paper. Because it’s a DSLR, it also supports Nikon’s full range of F-mount lenses. 

Specs

• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Resolution: 24.3-megapixels
• Shutter life rating: 150,000

Pros

• Great all-around performance
• Full-frame sensor
• Vari-angle screen
• Pro-grade build
• 1080p video at 60 fps

Cons

• Unexpanded ISO range only goes to 12,800
• 6.5 fps burst rate was fast, but seems slow now

Check the camera bags belonging to working Nikon photographers and there’s a decent chance you’ll find one of these in service as a second camera or backup. The body is littered with handy controls and dials, which make for quick navigation. The 24.3-megapixel sensor couldn’t match the pure resolution of the D800 series, but it made the camera quick and nimble while recording to a pair of SD card slots. 

The full-frame sensor makes it compatible with pretty much all of Nikon’s F-mount lenses, many of which you can pick up on the secondary market for relatively low prices. 

Despite its relative age, the D750 even shoots 1080p video at 60 fps, which is more than high-enough quality for most applications, especially if your computer isn’t speedy enough to handle huge 4K files. 

It’s really just a fantastic all-around camera that has proven itself with pros for years now. 

The best used Nikon APS-C DSLR: Nikon D7200

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Why we picked it: The upscale series in Nikon’s APS-C offerings bring solid image quality and tons of features, as well as better build quality compared to true consumer bodies. 

Specs

• Sensor size: APS-C
• Resolution: 24.3 megapixels
• Shutter life rating: 150,000

Pros

• 24.3-megapixel count matches big siblings
• Durable 150,000 actuation shutter
• 1080p video at 60 fps
• Up to 25,600 ISO without expansion
• Built-in Wifi and NFC

Cons

• Smaller sensor makes wide-angle coverage tough

Nikon squeezed a ton of image quality out of this 24.3-megapixel APS-C sensor. The D7200 has a natural ISO range that goes all the way up to 25,600 before you start hitting the expansion modes. Of course, things will look pretty noisy if you push it to the limits, but the results are impressive considering the sensor size and pixel count. 

It offers a large, 3.2-inch LCD display, as well as a pair of SD card slots so it can create backups of each image on the fly in case one card crashes. 

Because it’s a prosumer model, Nikon included emphasized a variety of shooting modes, including auto-bracketing for up to nine shots, and in-camera HDR. 

While the smaller-than-full-frame APS-C sensor can seem like a bit of a detractor, it opens up your glass options to include a slew of DX lenses. Because they don’t need to create as large of an image circle, those lenses can be smaller and lighter, while still offering excellent image quality. They’re also typically cheaper than their full-frame counterparts.

The best used Fujifilm mirrorless camera: Fujifilm X-T2

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Why we picked it: Despite costing a small fraction of the newer models, this body offers familiar Fujifilm colors and extremely durable construction.

Specs

• Sensor size: APS-C
• Resolution: 24.3 megapixels
• Shutter life rating: 100,000

Pros

• 24.3-megapixel resolution
• Fantastic tactile controls
• Small and compact, but easy to grip

Cons

• AF isn’t as fast as current models
• No built-in image stabilization

The Fujifilm X-T3 employs a small DSLR-style form factor, but it provides the advantages that come with shooting mirrorless. The APS-C sensor inside uses the X-Trans tech, which gives the Fujfiilm mirrorless cameras their well-regarded color reproduction chops. 

Tactile controls around the camera make it easy to navigate. The newer X-T3, X-T4, and even X-T5 models offer some tangible upgrades, but the X-T2 is one of the most affordable mirrorless bodies on the market, at least at this level. Compared to a newer, more consumer-oriented option, the X-T2 provides better weather-sealing and more customization options when it comes to controls. 

This is a great backup for a working Fuji pro or an entry point for someone trying to build up a full-on Fujifilm kit. 

The best used Fujifilm compact camera: Fujifilm X100T (updated)

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Why we picked it: Fujifilm improved the autofocus from the earlier versions of its already excellent fixed-lens rangefinder camera.

Specs

• Sensor size: APS-C
• Resolution: 16 megapixels
• Shutter life rating: 100,000 (unofficially)

Pros

• Clever hybrid optical/digital viewfinder
• Sharp, bright, and fast fixed lens
• Super-quiet shutter

Cons

• AF still just OK
• Not quite pocket friendly

4/21/2023 update: While this camera is still fantastic, we don’t recommend that you buy one right now unless you actually get a good deal on it. Fujifilm has been woefully unable to keep up with demand for new X-100 cameras, which has made the second-hand market on just about every model absurdly expensive. We’re leaving this on the list for now in hopes that the price will come back down, but for right now, your best bet is to wait.

Fujifilm’s quirky X100-series cameras have been some of the best compacts on the market since their debut way back in 2008. The camera has a fixed lens with the same basic field of view as a 35mm f/2 lens would on a full-frame camera. That makes it great for street photography. The lens has a built-in leaf shutter, which makes it exceptionally quiet and inconspicuous for street photography. 

Despite its small size, the X100T captures 16-megapixel images, which seems a little paltry by modern standards, but you do get access to Fujifilm’s film simulation color and black-and-white modes, which crank out impressive results even without editing. 

The hybrid viewfinder provides a battery eye-level shooting experience than just about any other compact around. You can move up to one of the new updates in the line, but expect to pay considerably more. Having one of these to toss in a bag or even larger pockets can be a ton of fun.

The best used full-frame Sony: Sony A7 II

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Why we picked it: Several new versions have hit the market in recent years, but this camera still offers lots to get excited about.

Specs

• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Resolution: 24.3 megapixels
• Shutter life rating: 200,000

Pros

• Great all-around specs for any shooting situation
• Excellent image quality and dynamic range
• Compact, but maintains tactile controls.
• Powerful in-body stabilization

Cons

• 24.3-megapixel sensor feels a little dated

The A7 II uses Sony’s familiar full-frame 24.3-megpaixel sensor, which it refined over time. While there are several newer generations on the market at the moment, this one has a lot of life left, especially if you don’t need the video upgrades that have debuted in recent models.

The in-body, 5-axis image stabilization promises up to 4.5 stops of shake reduction with certain lenses. 

Its base ISO range goes all the way up to 25,600 and it provides excellent low-light images. 

The A7 is Sony’s do-all, prosumer full-frame mirrorless and this body really lives up to that ambition. It’s a solid mix of specs and build quality that help it tackle just about any shooting situation with relative ease. 

The best used Sony compact camera: Sony RX100 V

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Why we picked it: Sony has been refining its advanced compact over multiple iterations and even the older models are still good.

Specs

• Sensor size: One-inch
• Resolution: 20.2 megapixels
• Shutter life rating: Undisclosed

Pros

• 1-inch sensor is large compared to other compacts
• Fast lens with a useful zoom range
• Truly pocket-friendly

Cons

• A little slow to start up
• Small body leaves little room for tactile controls

Sony tried to pack just about every feature anyone could want into a body about the size of a bar of soap. The RX100 V has a 20.2-megapixel, 1-inch sensor behind a surprisingly fast zoom lens. It opens to f/1.8 at the wide end and f/2.8 at its longest focal length. That’s enough to provide real shallow depth of field effects. 

The optical viewfinder sinks down into the camera body itself for when you’re transporting it or just shooting while using the surprisingly room 3-inch display. 

Right now, the Mark V seems like the sweet spot when you compare prices on the secondary market to the features you’re giving up by paying extra cash for the Mark VII. 

The best used Sony APS-C mirrorless camera: Sony A6000

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Why we picked it: There have been multiple versions since the A6000 release, but this is still a sturdy, extremely cheap option for getting into Sony mirrorless. 

Specs

• Sensor size: APS-C
• Resolution: 24.3 megapixels
• Shutter life rating: 100,000

Pros

• Extremely cheap
• Still in the Sony lineup so it’s repairable
• Compact, but still has a good grip

Cons

• Specs feel dated

Check the used prices on Sony’s A6000 and you’ll find some fantastic deals. No, it won’t get you all the modern bells and whistles that come with Sony’s most recent mirrorless offerings, but it’s also no slouch. When the A6000 debuted, Sony claimed it had the world’s fastest autofocus. While that claim is tough to quantify, our full review did find it very snappy. 

Even though it’s cheap and relatively old, you still get 24.3 megapixels of resolution, a tilting display, and an ISO range that goes up to 25,600. 

Sony still keeps the A6000 in its current offerings, which means your chances of getting it serviced if something goes wrong are high. 

If you’re looking for a fun camera or something that’s awesome for adapting old lenses, this is a super cheap possibility. 

The best used Olympus camera: Olympus E-M1 Mark II

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Why we picked it: The Micro Four Thirds sensor may be small, but this camera packs seriously advanced features and capture speed inside of a tiny body.

Specs

• Sensor size: Micro Four Thirds
• Resolution: 20.2 megapixels
• Shutter life rating: 200,000

Pros

• Super-fast shooting up to 60 fps with electronic shutter
• Built-in 5-axis stabilization
• Very compact

Cons

• Only OK in low-light

Olympus doesn’t skimp when it comes to features on its flagship mirrorless cameras. The OM-D E-M1 II employs a 20.2-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor that’s surrounded by impressive electronics. 

With the mechanical shutter engaged, it can shoot up to 15 fps, which is already fast. Switch to the mechanical shutter and it can go to 18 fps with focus tracking. If you don’t need AF, it can go all the way up to an absurd 60 fps. 

The speed isn’t the only impressive part. It has an extremely burly 5-axis image stabilization system built-in. Plus, it shoots 4K UHD video. Because the camera is still in Olympus’s lineup and shares many parts with the latest version of the EM-1, it’s likely you’ll be able to get it serviced for some time to come.

The best used Panasonic mirrorless camera: Panasonic GH5

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Why we picked it: While Olympus piled on the photography features for its Micro Four Thirds flagship, Panasonic emphasized video and made the GH line a great place to start shooting high-level motion. 

Specs

• Sensor size: Micro Four Thirds
• Resolution: 20.3 megapixels
• Shutter life rating: 200,000

Pros

• 4K video capture with no cropping
• High bitrate video modes
• 1080p video up to 120 fps for slow motion
• Built-in 5-axis stabilization

Cons

• Just OK in low light

If you’re looking for an extremely capable used body to shoot video, you’d be hard-pressed to find one better than this. It shoots 4K footage at a high bitrate with no cropping of its sensor. Some larger-sensor cameras have to use a small portion of the chip to capture 4K footage, which annoyingly crops the lens’s field of view. That doesn’t happen here. 

The GH5 offers a selection of pro-grade video formats like Cinelike to get files that are more suitable for professional color grading. And despite its diminutive size, the GH5 even has a full-sized HDMI port onboard for output. 

It’s not all about video, of course. It can shoot 20.2-megapixel images at up to 12 fps or even pull high-res photos directly out of videos while you’re shooting them. 

Things to consider when buying a used camera

Regardless of what camera brand you’re buying into, there are some universal variables to consider before you click that order button. Here are some essential aspects to dig into when shopping on the secondary market.

Shutter count

A camera’s mechanical shutter works hard during shooting. Even in mirrorless models, it opens and closes to let light come through the lens onto the exposed sensor. And because it’s a moving component, it tends to break down more quickly than other parts. 

Dig deep enough into a camera’s spec sheet, and you’ll find that many manufacturers actually give an expected lifespan for camera shutters. They typically range from around 100,000 for more consumer-oriented cameras and older DSLRs up to half a million in pro models like the Canon 1D X Mark III or the Canon R5. 

These numbers aren’t set in stone. I’ve personally had cameras rated for 150,000 shots go more than double that without failure. I’ve also had a shutter fail at less than 50,000, so while this is a good guideline, it’s by no means a guarantee. 

Previous use

You can always ask the seller what kind of shutter count the camera has, though some manufacturers make it harder than others to find out. Even if they can’t give you a hard number, consider what the camera was used for before it went up for sale. If it was a primary camera for a wedding photographer, the shutter has likely gotten a severe workout. If it was a backup body that sat in a bag for most of its life, the count may be low. 

Lens compatibility

While buying a used camera can save you some cash, you also need to make sure it works with your current lenses or those you plan to buy along with it. If you’re moving from a DSLR to a mirrorless camera from the same manufacturer, it’s typically pretty easy to use an adapter to get all your old lenses working. If you’re using a mirrorless camera with dedicated mirrorless lenses, however, there’s typically no way to make those lenses work with a DSLR. 

This is also worth noting if you’re moving up to a full-frame camera for the first time. Some lenses are specifically designed for cameras with smaller sensors that don’t produce a big enough image to cover a full-frame sensor. Sometimes this is easy to figure out. Nikon calls labels its lenses for smaller sensors as DX instead of FX. Canon labels its smaller sensor lenses with an EF-S instead of the typical EF. 

Before you pull the trigger on a new body, just make sure you’re going to get the kind of compatibility you expect from your lenses. 

Repairability

Even used cameras can cost serious coin, so you may want to have them repaired or serviced at some point in the future. Unfortunately, first-party repair and service programs from the manufacturer don’t last forever. You may not be able to send your camera body to the company that made it if it’s too old. Of course, there are still third parties out there that can work on older digital cameras, but it’s good to have the option to send it back to the mothership for service if possible. Check the company’s service website for lists of supported gear.

FAQs

A final word on buying a used camera

• The best used Canon DSLR: Canon 5D Mark III
• The best used Canon APS-C mirrorless camera: Canon EOS M100
• The best used pro-level Canon DSLR: Canon 1D X Mark II
• The best used Nikon full-frame DSLR: Nikon D750
• The best used Nikon APS-C DSLR: Nikon D7200
• The best used Fujifilm mirrorless camera: Fujifilm X-T2
• The best used Fujifilm compact camera: Fujifilm X100T
• The best used full-frame Sony: Sony A7 II
• The best used Sony compact camera: Sony RX100 V
• The best used Sony APS-C camera: Sony A6000
• The best used Olympus camera: Olympus E-M1 Mark II
• The best used Panasonic mirrorless camera: Panasonic GH5

If you’re out to find the best used camera for you, consider what you really need instead of what you want. Landscape photographers should focus on resolution and image quality. If you’re looking for a backup camera body for your wedding or event photography, look for something rugged and versatile. There are tons of older cameras out there on the market that can handle everything you throw at them and leave you with cash left over for lenses. 

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best used cameras to buy right now appeared first on Popular Photography.

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Best full-frame		Canon RP		SEE IT	The full-frame sensor inside is bigger than the rest on the list. That’s good news if you have a lot of old Canon lenses.
All around champ		Fujifilm X-T200		SEE IT	This compact body borrows some high-end features from cameras above it in the lineup.
Shake buster		Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV		SEE IT	The built-in 5-axis image stabilization system is very handy for avoiding shaky shots.

Choosing a good camera for beginners is more complicated than simply selecting the latest and greatest model in the line. Entry-level cameras typically offer beginner-specific features that help new shooters learn the nuances of advanced photography. The best mirrorless camera for beginners, however, also leaves room to grow as your skills evolve. 

Rather than sending you out into the complicated mirrorless digital camera world alone, we’ve put together this simple guide to help you choose your tool. The secret to success: Identify the most important features that you’ll need and emphasize them. You don’t want to end up paying a lot of extra cash for features you’ll rarely use. That could be lens money.

• Best overall: Fujifilm XT-200
• Best full-frame: Canon RP
• Best for bloggers: Sony A6400
• Best small: Nikon Z 50
• Best for image stabilization: Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

The best mirrorless cameras for beginners: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: Fujifilm XT-200

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Our expert’s pick for the best mirrorless camera for beginners overall is the Fujifilm X-T200. This DSLR camera embodies a classic SLR shape with an eye-level finder and a grip on the right-hand side. Inside, you’ll find Fujifilm’s renowned 24-megapixel APS-C sensor, which handles color differently than other digital sensors. That makes it uniquely capable of capturing pleasant-looking images with no editing required. It even emulates famous Fujifilm film stocks. The 3.5-inch vari-angle screen punches above its weight at this price and the camera gives you tactile controls with knobs and buttons that make for super-quick navigation once you get the hang of it. 

Best full-frame: Canon RP

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This affordable Canon mirrorless full-frame camera for beginners offers a very nice 26.2-megapixel resolution for just under $1,000 retail. It shoots 2160p video and employs Canon’s facial tracking focusing system. The body looks and feels a lot like a DSLR so it will be an easy transition if you’re making the switch. It will also work excellently with Canon’s huge back catalog of EF lenses if you get the simple adapter to go with it.

Best for bloggers: Sony A6400

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This isn’t the most recent addition to the Sony A6X00 line, but you can find it for a solid deal including a lens and it will give you lots of room to grow into it. The sensor employs Sony’s 4D focusing system, which is meticulous when it comes to keeping faces in focus, even when you’re moving around. The screen flips up to face you so it doesn’t stick awkwardly out to the side of the camera. Plus, it shoots beautiful 4K footage of your lovely mug.

Best small: Nikon Z50

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This isn’t the smallest mirrorless camera on the market, but the Nikon Z50 is smart about the space it uses. The whole thing weighs less than 14 ounces, which is a pittance compared to some DSLRs. Despite its small size, it still offers a selection of tactile controls and a chunky handgrip to go with its 20.9-megapixel sensor and advanced AF system.

Best for image stabilization: Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

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The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a tiny little camera with some impressive specs. Its Micro Four Thirds sensor moves in five different directions to try and counteract the movement of your hands as you press the shutter—it’s the best mirrorless camera for beginners looking for image stabilization. It promises up to 4.5 stops of shake correction, which is up there with the best of them. Despite its small size, you also get a solid collection of tactile controls including a mode dial and control knobs.

Choosing the best mirrorless cameras for beginners

It can be hard to understand exactly what the phrase “mirrorless camera” means, so we’ll run through the basics here quickly. If you’re already schooled on the nuances of the DSLR vs. mirrorless camera debate, you can probably skip straight down to the recommendations. 

For the uninitiated, mirrorless cameras get their identity from something they lack: a mirror. DSLRs (and their film-based SLR predecessors) rely on mirrors inside the camera body to reflect light coming in through the lens up to the focusing sensor and through the optical viewfinder. DSLRs dominated the advanced digital camera market for years before advanced CMOS image sensor tech changed the game. 

Mirrorless cameras simply funnel light through the lens directly onto the imaging sensor. That sensor pumps out a live feed of what it sees through to an electronic viewfinder or the screen on the back of the camera. Attached lens cameras worked like this for years before interchangeable-lens mirrorless cameras came along. 

Why are mirrorless cameras desirable?

Without the mirror inside the body, mirrorless cameras can keep the lens much closer to the sensor, which typically reduces the overall size of the camera itself. 

Because mirrorless cameras rely on their main imaging sensor for focusing, they’re also less likely to need adjustments than DSLRs. That sensor-based focusing also allows the camera to perform more advanced focusing features like precise image tracking and facial recognition. 

Some beginners also prefer mirrorless cameras because the image they see in the viewfinder looks very close to what the final result will be. With a DSLR, you see a simple reflection, but the camera settings may leave you with a shot that’s blown out or too dark. Mirrorless cameras reduce that chance. In fact, they will allow you to see, in real-time, how changing your settings will affect your overall picture. That’s great for learning purposes.

What’s not so good about mirrorless cameras?

DSLR’s advantages over mirrorless cameras have waned over the years. Some shooters still prefer the zero-lag experience of looking through an optical viewfinder. 

DSLRs also typically natively accept older lenses. So, if you’re upgrading from a Canon EF or Nikon N system, your lenses will probably still work with a new DSLR. You’ll have to use an adapter if you want to put them onto a mirrorless camera

Don’t give up on features you’ll want later

It’s easy to get lost in camera spec sheets when you’re out there shopping. The best mirrorless camera for beginners, however, isn’t always the most advanced model on the block. Ideally, you’ll choose something that’s easy to navigate and won’t drown you in buttons, dials, and endless menu screens. Some advanced Canon cameras, for instance, have more than five menu screens dedicated just to changing focus settings. That’s great for a working pro who knows just what they want. But, for a beginner, it can get overwhelming quickly.

As you hone into your personal style, you’ll likely figure out exactly what camera you want when you upgrade. To get started, though, you want something with a well-rounded feature set that you can grow into without getting discouraged. 

If you aspire to professional work, it also can’t hurt to get something capable so you can use it as a backup body even after you’ve upgraded. Buying into a system can get really expensive so you’ll want to choose wisely at the start. 

Moving up to a full-frame mirrorless camera

When photographers talk about “full-frame” cameras, they’re typically referring to those that have a sensor the size of a single image shot on 35mm film. With a sensor that size, your lenses work exactly as you’d expect them to. When you use a smaller sensor, however, the smaller chip can only capture part of the image circle so your final image looks cropped. It can make it difficult to get truly wide-angle views or achieve the same kind of buttery blurry backgrounds when shooting on fast lenses. 

Many pros rely on full-frame mirrorless cameras but don’t let anyone tell you that they’re absolutely necessary. There are some truly wonderful and capable APS-C options out there (some of which are on this list). The best mirrorless camera for beginners depends more on features than pure imaging power.

For aspiring vloggers

If you’re shooting video on your own, there are a few things you should consider. First and foremost, you want something light and compact. If you’re going to be holding a camera at arm’s length with the full weight of a Gorillapod weighing you down, you don’t need a bulky camera adding to the load. 

You’ll also want to make sure that you have a solid screen. Look for a screen that flips forward, but maintains a sturdy connection to the body without sticking out too far. Moving screens are good. Screens that stick out and get cracked off in a subway door are not. Trust me. 

You’ll also, of course, want to make sure that the camera captures top-quality video. People these days don’t smash those link and subscribe buttons for blurry, grainy footage.

Looking for the best mirrorless camera for beginners with smaller hands?

DSLRs have big mirror boxes inside of their bodies taking a lot of space. Mirrorless cameras don’t need all of that. As a result, the bodies can be smaller. That’s not always the case. Large sensors, wide lens mounts, and lots of electronics can clutter up some mirrorless cameras until they bloat to the size of their DSLR pals.

You want to go small with your camera, but make sure it still includes the features you want and feels comfortable in your hand. If a camera is too small, your hand can actually cramp trying to hold onto it (trust me on this one, too). As you move up to higher-quality lenses, they also tend to increase in size and include more heavy glass. In that case, you want something sturdy to counterbalance the weight of the lens. It’s literally all about balance.

Keep it steady with image stabilization

You can’t change the laws of physics. And those laws say that too much camera shake will result in blurry images. Luckily, modern cameras have advanced tech inside that can prevent those ruined pictures. Some cameras rely on lenses with built-in vibration reduction. They work well, but those lenses typically demand higher prices than non-stabilized glass. 

Some cameras, however, offer internal image stabilization systems that actually require the sensor to move around inside the body. You’ll often hear these systems rated by a number of stops. Those measurements have a specific meaning, but they’re also meant to represent absolute best-case scenarios that don’t translate into the real world. Just know that a larger number is typically better there.

FAQs

A last word about the best mirrorless cameras for beginners 

Don’t be afraid to take the leap into mirrorless cameras. Now is the time to do it. The market is saturated with the best mirrorless camera for beginners that will help you learn and then let you shine when your skills are honed. Even if you can’t afford something new, there are some great older options out there on the secondary market. The Sony A7 II? Still awesome. Whatever you get, be sure to get out there and shoot until you’re sick of it. You probably won’t get sick of it, though.

The post The best mirrorless cameras for beginners in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

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