Manual Mode Cheat Sheet
🔺 The Exposure Triangle 📷 Starting Settings Cheat Sheet ⚙️ How to Set Up Manual Mode Set ISO based on light Set aperture based on
Recommended Used Camera Models for Different Needs
When purchasing a second-hand camera, it is essential to consider image quality, durability, and feature longevity. Below are recommendations based on different photography needs.
1. Best Budget Used Cameras (Under $500-800)
Ideal for beginners and enthusiasts looking for affordable but capable cameras.
DSLR Options:
- Canon EOS 80D – Reliable autofocus, great for photography and basic video.
- Nikon D7500 – Excellent low-light performance, strong image quality.
Mirrorless Options:
- Sony A6000 – Compact, fast autofocus, solid for everyday use.
- Fujifilm X-T20 – Beautiful colours, great for street and travel photography.
✅ Best for: Beginners, hobbyists, and casual photographers.
2. Best Used Cameras for Portrait Photography
These cameras offer high image quality, strong autofocus, and good dynamic range.
DSLR Options:
- Canon 5D Mark IV – Full-frame sensor, excellent color science, great for professional work.
- Nikon D750 – Classic full-frame DSLR with great low-light performance.
Mirrorless Options:
- Sony A7 III – Full-frame, fast autofocus, great dynamic range.
- Fujifilm X-T3 – APS-C but excellent skin tones and sharp images.
✅ Best for: Portrait photographers looking for high detail and beautiful background blur.
3. Best Used Cameras for Landscape & Travel Photography
Key factors: High resolution, dynamic range, and portability.
DSLR Options:
- Nikon D810 – 36MP sensor, excellent sharpness and detail.
- Canon 6D Mark II – Lightweight full-frame with good dynamic range.
Mirrorless Options:
- Sony A7R II – 42MP, great for capturing fine details.
- Fujifilm X-T4 – Compact, weather-sealed, great for travel.
✅ Best for: Landscape photographers needing high resolution and dynamic range.
4. Best Used Cameras for Sports & Wildlife Photography
Key factors: Fast autofocus, high burst rate, and telephoto lens support.
DSLR Options:
- Canon 7D Mark II – 10 fps burst, great for tracking motion.
- Nikon D500 – APS-C but incredible autofocus and speed.
Mirrorless Options:
- Sony A9 – 20 fps, silent shooting, incredible tracking.
- Canon R6 – Excellent low-light AF and subject tracking.
✅ Best for: Action photographers requiring fast shooting and precise tracking.
5. Best Used Cameras for Video & Content Creation
Key factors: 4K video, good autofocus, stabilisation, and audio support.
DSLR Options:
- Canon 5D Mark IV – Good for cinematic video, full-frame sensor.
- Nikon D780 – Hybrid DSLR with excellent video features.
Mirrorless Options:
- Sony A7S II – Low-light king, perfect for filmmaking.
- Panasonic GH5 – 4K 60fps, great stabilisation, ideal for YouTube content.
✅ Best for: Videographers and content creators needing professional-level video capabilities.
Final Recommendations
- For Beginners: Canon EOS 80D / Sony A6000
- For Portraits: Canon 5D Mark IV / Sony A7 III
- For Landscapes: Nikon D810 / Sony A7R II
- For Sports & Wildlife: Nikon D500 / Sony A9
- For Video: Sony A7S II / Panasonic GH5
Note:
Note: Prices are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the camera’s condition, included accessories, and the seller’s location. For the most accurate and current pricing, consider checking reputable Australian retailers and marketplaces such as:
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Personal and business brand photographer and educator, super passionate about empowering business women and men to have a positive self perception, with the right tools and guidance so they can share their gifts with the world.
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Recommended Used Camera Models
Download PDF version here
Recommended Used Camera Models
for Different Needs
download
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