If you’re just beginning your journey to photography, it can be a good idea to learn with a second hand camera. That way, you won’t have to commit to a long-term investment and still learn a lot of the photography techniques.
Overview of the Best Second Hand Cameras for Beginners
- Olympus OM-D E-M5: Best for lens variety and mid-range budget.
- Fujifilm X-T10: Best for color quality and affordable lens options.
- National C-500AF: Best for budget film photography and simplicity.
- Sony RX100: Best for portability and high image quality value.
- Ricoh AF-100: Best for entry-level film users and ease of operation.
| Camera Model | Type | Sensor | Resolution | Lens Compatibility | ISO Range | Special Features | Weight | Release Year |
| Olympus OM-D E-M5 | Mirrorless | Micro Four Thirds | 16.1 MP | Micro Four Thirds Mount | 200-25,600 | 5-Axis Image stabilisation, Weather-sealed body | 425g | 2012 |
| Fujifilm X-T10 | Mirrorless | APS-C | 16.3 MP | X-Mount | 200-51,200 | Film Simulation Modes, Retro design | 381g | 2015 |
| National C-500AF | Point-and-Shoot | 35mm Film | N/A (Film-based) | Fixed Lens | N/A | Autofocus, Built-in Flash | 300g | 1990s (exact year not known) |
| Sony RX100 | Compact | 1” (13.2 x 8.8mm) | 20.2 MP | Fixed Lens | 125-25,600 | Zeiss Lens, High-speed AF | 240g | 2012 |
| Ricoh AF-100 | Point-and-Shoot | 35mm Film | N/A (Film-based) | Fixed Lens | N/A | Autofocus, Simple Operation | 320g | 1990 |
1. Olympus OM-D E-M5
At a glance:
- Price: $695
- Cosmetic: Good
- Mechanical: Excellent
- Includes accessories: Yes
- Video 1080p Full HD at 30fps
- Sensor 16.1MP Four Thirds Live MOS
- Continuous shooting 9fps
- Viewfinder 1.44-million-dot EVF
The Olympus E-M5 was the first camera to be released in Olympus’ brand-new OM-D line in 2012. It offers great value for money when bought second hand. The E-M5 is based on an Olympus TruePic VI image processor and a 16.1MP Live MOS sensor. Its built-in sensitivity goes from ISO 200 to 25,600, and its shutter speeds span from 1 minute to 1/4000 seconds.
The E-M5’s integrated 5-axis picture stabilisation was one of the major advances it introduced at launch. It performs remarkably well when handheld at slower shutter speeds. In addition to Olympus MFT lenses, the E-M5 is fully compatible with third-party MFT lenses including Panasonic, so you won’t be lacking in glass substitutes.
Even better, the camera is completely weather-sealed, so it may be used in situations where many other cameras would need to be stored in a dry camera bag. In addition to its sturdy construction, the E-M5 is remarkably lightweight and compact, which is a plus for beginners.
2. Fujifilm X-T10
At a glance:
- Price: $750
- Cosmetic: Good
- Mechanical: Excellent
- Sensitivity ISO 200-6400
- Sensor 16.3MP
- Continuous shooting 8fps
- Video 1080p
- Viewfinder 2.36-million-dot EVF
The Fujifilm X-T10, which was released in 2015, was basically a smaller version of Fujifilm’s flagship mirrorless camera at the time, the X-T1. The X-T10 has the same sensor and image processor as the X-T1, however several of the X-T1’s capabilities were removed to reduce costs. As a result, the image quality is extremely similar to that of the X-T1. Even though the 24.3MP X-T20 has since replaced it, the X-T10 is still a fashionable and reasonably priced camera. It is also enclosed in a magnesium alloy body that is weatherproof.
The Fujifilm X-T10 camera can be regarded as a good option for beginners because it has simple controls and is easy to use. It also features conveniently located dials for setting exposure, shutter speed, and aperture settings that should allow newcomers to the art of photography to grasp the basics without much of a struggle.
The appeal of the camera is also boosted by its various film simulation modes that allow users to create various aesthetics and generate beautifully colored and toned images right from the camera. Plus, it is small and light which improves its portability, appealing to beginners who wish to carry the camera around and hone their skills wherever they may find themselves.
3. National C-500AF
At a glance:
- Price: $150
- Cosmetic: Good
- Mechanic: Excellent
- Sensitivity (ISO): ISO 100-800 (film-dependent)
- Sensor: N/A (Film-based, uses 35mm film)
- Viewfinder: Optical viewfinder
National C-500AF refrains from the evolution of new era cameras, rather its a point-and-shoot camera. It has an intuitive design and serves as an ideal camera for students and first-time users of cameras. The camera takes care of the majority of things. It includes autofocus with exposure control. It has features that help to take good pictures without much deep understanding of the technology.
On top of that, it allows users to feel the characteristics of shooting on film within the first order of camera shooting. The camera’s optical viewfinder helps users develop their composition skills, while the affordability of both the camera and 35mm film makes it an accessible option for those just starting.
4. Sony RX100
At a glance:
- Price: $2250
- Includes accessories: Yes
- Sensor: 20.2 MP 1” sensor
- Lens: 28mm-100mm zoom lens with variable aperture of f1.8-f4.9
- Contrast-detect autofocus
- High speed shooting in high frame rate
- 3 inch fixed LCD screen
- 1080p at 60fps video
- Optical image stabilisation
The Sony RX100 is a big step forward in tiny camera design, providing professional-level functionality in a pocket-sized device. Despite being debuted in 2012, this camera continues to astound with its outstanding mix of size, picture quality, and adaptability, making it an ideal choice for serious novices who want to invest in their photographic career.
The camera’s zoom lens is especially impressive, with a flexible 28-100mm equivalent range that covers everything from wide-angle vistas to modest telephoto photos. The variable aperture of f/1.8-4.9 enables superb low-light performance, particularly at the broad end of the zoom range. This adaptability makes it an excellent learning tool for novices who wish to explore various genres of photography without having to change lenses.
The autofocus mechanism of the RX100 is one of its best features; even with contrast-detect technology, it maintains speed and accuracy in the majority of lighting scenarios. As their abilities advance, novices may learn and try out new focussing strategies thanks to the camera’s several focus modes and zones.
The RX100’s video capabilities are yet another advantage. With its optical image stabilisation and 1080p recording at 60 frames per second, it’s a powerful tool for anybody interested in videography. The desired shallow depth-of-field effect that lends movies a more polished image is made possible by the increased sensor size.
The RX100’s all-metal structure feels sturdy and long-lasting, and its build quality is superb. With a weight of only 240g, it is incredibly portable and lightweight, making it a great camera to tote about every day. This mobility promotes consistent practice and use, which is essential for budding photographers.
5. Ricoh AF-100
At a glance:
- Price: $150
- Cosmetic: Good
- Mechanical: Excellent
- Sensitivity: ISO 100-400 (film-dependent)
- Sensor: N/A (Film-based, uses 35mm film)
- Viewfinder: Bright optical viewfinder
- Built-in flash
- Fixed 35mm f/3.5 lens
The Ricoh AF-100, released in 1990, represents an excellent entry point into film photography for beginners. This compact point-and-shoot camera combines simplicity with reliable performance, making it an ideal choice for those who want to experience the unique characteristics of film photography without being overwhelmed by technical complexity.
The AF-100 is unique because of its simple operation and unexpectedly powerful features. Despite being simple by today’s standards, the camera’s focusing technology is extremely precise for its age and ideal for learning the fundamentals of photography. The fixed 35mm lens helps beginners hone their compositional skills because of its modest wide-angle viewpoint, which makes it a great focal length for everything from street photography to informal portraiture.
For beginners, the camera’s integrated flash system is especially impressive since it automatically activates in low light, assisting in ensuring that images are appropriately exposed even in difficult lighting scenarios. Additionally, the flash can be operated manually, giving beginner photographers a great chance to try out various lighting setups.
Conclusion: Choosing Your First Second Hand Camera
Remember that any of these cameras may be used as a wonderful learning tool; the key is to select one that fits your budget, interests, and learning style, and then concentrate on improving your photographic abilities rather than getting caught down in equipment details. Regular practice and experimenting will provide greater results than any technological feature, regardless of the camera you choose.
