APS-C cameras are some of the best formats designed for young photographers. These devices are not only cost-effective, but they also deliver some truly good image quality. While full frame has been the norm, smaller sensors are not too far away. The latter is especially important for young photographers, who are on a tight budget but do not wish to compromise on technology. So, here are some options to help you out.
Nikon D500
If you have been reading our articles, you will know how much our staff adores the D500. This is a 20MP APS-C DSLR, which comes with a sturdy build. A quick search on Reddit, and you’ll find how many wildlife and sports photographers still use it. Not only can it withstand challenging weather, but it also packs a speedy autofocus. The latter is a must in genres like street photography too. If you are looking for a sturdy and fast camera, the D500 is the best option out there. Despite it having a 1.5x crop, the camera delivers some of the best JPEG files with vivid color. And in case your exposure is off, you can always correct it with the versatile RAW files.
Canon 80D
The Canon R7 has been the frontrunner in the APS-C department, but in the DSLR range, the 80D is not short of some appreciation. The camera houses a 24MP sensor, a DIGIC 6 processor, and a tilting LCD. It certainly is built well, and it may remind people of the 5D Mk II, 40D, and the 6D. It also has the most sorted menu system so that you don’t get lost in the gear. If you are a portrait, documentary, or street photographer, you will get good autofocus performance in good lighting. It will barely miss the focus. The tracking AF is also quite splendid. But in low light, you may suffer a bit. Then there is the fabulous image quality, which reminds you of the film. As we said, “If you like the look of film, you’re going to get it here—specifically, I feel the look is like that of Kodak Ektar.” With RAW files, you can recover details, and the high ISO result is great up to ISO 1600.
Fujifilm X-T2
No APS-C camera list is complete without Fujifilm cameras. The X-T2 in this regard is the best offering from 2016. The device houses a 24.3MP X-Trans CMOS III sensor and comes with the same design as its predecessor. What you’ll enjoy is the retro design, with nice dials and knobs for exposure and shutter. There is also plenty of weather sealing to work with. Photographers working across genres such as weddings, events, landscapes, and so on will adore the X-T2. It offers a fast autofocus system, and it can detect your subject against the strong backlight. There are film simulations as well that can help you reduce your workload in editing. The image quality is generally nice, and the color rendition is great. RAW files are versatile, and you only lose details in the photo after ISO 6400. In fact, it is such a package that it won our Editor’s Choice Award.
If you wish to buy any of these cameras, head to eBay. You’ll get a wonderful discounted rate as well.