Nikon cameras are known for their full frame technology. The company introduced icons such as the D850, the D6, and the recently launched Z8. While each model performs well, they offer one challenge: price. This is where Nikon’s APS-C range comes in. Not only have the small sensors delivered good results, but they can also be purchased at a much lower price today from the second-hand market. Here are two cameras that you may consider for your needs.
Nikon Zfc
What makes it great? The camera offers a 20MP sensor, 209 autofocus points, and 309g of body weight. The device offers a decent autofocus, and it becomes faster with the 40mm f2. The system is decent enough for day to day shoots. Similarly, the camera offers decent JPEGs and RAW files. The colors are decent but where it does shine though is the high ISO output. You get incredibly clean images at ISO 6400. And that says a lot.
Who is it for? Everyday photographers will adore this one, but also those who prefer shooting at night. Slap a 40mm lens, and you get a decent device for street photography too.
What makes it so unique? The whole look and feel of the camera is in its body and design. The device has a retro body, made of solid aluminum, has multiple dials at the top and is quite solid. However. It lacks a weather sealing, which means you have to be careful of taking it out during blizzard.
The Nikon ZFc is a decent camera capable of doing everything mirrorless cameras could do before the Canon EOS R came onto the scene. What’s unique about it is the design on the outside.
Nikon D500
What makes it great? A 20MP DSLR, the D500 gets a lot of things right. For starters, it packs a quick autofocus. This means you are not only getting good shots during the day but also at night. Compared with the others, the camera is the most consistent in this department. The next best thing is the build quality. The D500 is robust, weather-sealed, and designed to withstand any challenge. This is particularly great if you are often shooting outdoors.
Who is it for? The camera is designed for wildlife, bird and street photography. However, since it is quite quick, one can also use it for sports, photojournalism, and weddings.
Why is it so unique? This is the most exciting bit. Despite the 1.5x crop factor, the sensor is very capable. It delivers really good colors and JPEG quality, but also great even with its RAW files. The latter is at par with both Sony and Fujifilm. This means you can easily recover details. Similarly, you also get good high ISO output.
The Nikon D500 is no exception and even in low lighting, the autofocus is very consistent, accurate and to be honest I never lost focus at any point in time during the review period.
