Is It Worth Investing in an APS-C Camera?

Many photography enthusiasts and hobbyists often wonder whether to make the leap to an APS-C camera. Whether you're looking to capture everyday moments or capture wildlife in its natural habitat, an APS-C camera can be a worthy investment.

Why APS-C Cameras are a Great Choice

APS-C cameras are lighter to carry and offer more affordable lenses. Compared to full-frame cameras, APS-C cameras don't require lenses with such large glass elements, making them more cost-effective. Additionally, today's APS-C cameras outperform what 35mm color negative film could capture. This modern technology offers a combination of excellent image quality and portability.

Here is an example of a photograph taken with a 2016 Nikon D500 APS-C camera. Please click to expand the image:

Worth It for Wildlife Photography?

In the realm of wildlife photography, an APS-C camera can be even more valuable. Its compact size and lighter weight make it easier to conceal and carry, allowing for more stealth when capturing those elusive shots of wildlife in their natural habitats. My personal favorite APS-C camera for this purpose is the Canon 90D.

Does the Size of the Sensor Matter?

Many people mistakenly believe that the size of the sensor is crucial when choosing a camera. While it is true that different sensor sizes can yield different results, experts argue that the size of the sensor has little to do with the quality of the images captured. The key is in how the camera is used and what you expect from it.

I have owned several cameras of different sizes and sensor types, including an Ashai Penta SL1, a Canon 600D digital crop sensor camera, and an Olympus OM-D E-M10 four thirds camera. Each of these cameras can capture images when the shutter button is pressed, and that's all they do. They don't have any additional functions beyond this basic task.

Back in the day, I had a Minolta DiMAGE Z1, a simple point-and-shoot camera with no image stabilization. Despite its limitations, it allowed me to take some great shots. I once had an Olympus C100 PS as my first real digital camera, and the images from this camera and from a full-frame camera would be virtually indistinguishable unless you performed a zoom that no reasonable person would do.

So, if you spend too much time worrying about specifications, it's time to stop and get out there to capture some amazing photographs with your chosen camera. Remember, the sensor size is just one aspect of camera performance. What truly matters is how you use the camera to record those precious moments.

Here are a few photographs, many taken years ago, showcasing the versatility of different camera types. Each of these images, whether taken with a Minolta Z1, a Canon 400D, a Canon 600D, a Lumix DMC-FZ20, a Fujifilm FinePix S3380, or an Olympus Camedia C100, proves that it's the skill of the photographer and the moment captured that make the image stand out, regardless of the camera used.

Ultimately, invest in a camera that suits your needs and allows you to capture the world around you. Whether you're an amateur enthusiast or a professional photographer, the key to success lies in the images you capture and not just in the specifications of your camera.