As a photographer specializing in portrait photography, finding the right camera that suits my style and needs is crucial. After years of experimenting with different cameras, I finally discovered the best used mirrorless camera for portraits that has truly elevated my work.
This particular mirrorless camera not only delivers exceptional image quality but also offers a range of features that make it ideal for capturing stunning portraits. From its high-resolution sensor to its advanced autofocus system, every aspect of this camera is tailored to meet the demands of portrait photography.
In this article, I will share my experience with this camera, highlighting its key strengths and how it has transformed the way I approach portrait photography. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring photographer, finding the right tool can make all the difference in creating captivating portraits.
Best Used Mirrorless Camera for Portraits
When it comes to capturing stunning portraits, choosing the right camera can make all the difference. After extensively researching and testing various mirrorless cameras, I’ve found that the Sony Alpha a7 II stands out as the best option for portrait photography.
Equipped with a full-frame sensor and advanced autofocus system, the Sony Alpha a7 II delivers exceptional image quality and sharpness, making it ideal for capturing intricate details in portraits. The camera’s in-body image stabilization also ensures that your shots are clear and blur-free, even in low-light conditions.
- The Fujifilm X-T3 is another excellent choice for portrait photography, offering impressive colour reproduction and a wide range of Film Simulation modes that allow you to achieve various looks straight out of the camera.
- For those on a budget, the Panasonic Lumix G85 provides a great balance of affordability and performance, with its Micro Four Thirds sensor producing high-quality images suitable for portrait work.
Benefits of Mirrorless Cameras for Portrait Photography
When it comes to capturing stunning portrait images, mirrorless cameras offer a range of advantages. One of the key benefits is their compact size and lightweight design, making them easy to handle and carry around during portrait sessions. This allows me to move freely and quickly adjust my shooting angles to capture the perfect shot without feeling weighed down by heavy equipment.
Another advantage of mirrorless cameras is their electronic viewfinders, which provide a real-time preview of how the image will look before I even press the shutter button. This feature allows me to make precise adjustments to exposure, white balance, and composition, ensuring that I can capture the best portraits possible without any guesswork.
- High-Quality Images: Mirrorless cameras are known for their excellent image quality, thanks to their advanced sensors and image processing technology. This allows me to capture sharp, detailed portraits with beautiful colours and tones, even in challenging lighting conditions.
- Fast Autofocus: Mirrorless cameras are equipped with fast and accurate autofocus systems that make it easy to capture sharp, in-focus portraits of moving subjects. This helps me to nail the focus quickly and consistently, ensuring that my portraits are always crisp and clear.
- Adaptability: Mirrorless cameras are compatible with a wide range of lenses, giving me the flexibility to choose the perfect lens for each portrait shoot. Whether I need a wide-angle lens for environmental portraits or a telephoto lens for close-up shots, I can easily swap lenses to achieve the desired look and feel.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Used Mirrorless Camera
When looking for a used mirrorless camera for portrait photography, there are several important factors to take into consideration. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
1. Sensor Size:
Consider the sensor size of the camera as it can impact the image quality and depth of field in your portraits. Larger sensors generally offer better low-light performance and dynamic range, which are important for capturing detailed portraits with smooth background blur.
2. Autofocus System:
Check the autofocus system of the camera to ensure it is fast and accurate, especially when shooting portraits with moving subjects. Look for a camera with a reliable autofocus system that can easily track and focus on your subject’s eyes for sharp and clear portraits.
3. Image Stabilization:
Verify if the camera has in-body image stabilization to help reduce camera shake and produce sharper images, especially when shooting handheld portraits in low-light conditions. Image stabilization can be a valuable feature for achieving crisp and blur-free portraits.
Top Brands and Models to Consider
When it comes to choosing a used mirrorless camera for portrait photography, there are several reputable brands and models that stand out in terms of performance and image quality. As a photographer looking for a reliable option, it’s essential to consider the following brands:
Sony Alpha Series
Sony’s Alpha series is known for its excellent autofocus capabilities and impressive image quality, making it a popular choice among portrait photographers. Models like the Sony A7 III and A7R III offer high-resolution sensors and advanced features that can enhance your portrait photography.
- Sony A7 III
- Sony A7R III
Additionally, Sony’s E-mount lenses provide a wide range of options for capturing stunning portraits with beautiful bokeh and sharp details.
Where to Find Quality Used Mirrorless Cameras
If you’re in the market for a reliable used mirrorless camera for portrait photography, there are several places you can turn to find high-quality options at affordable prices.
One option is to check out reputable online marketplaces such as eBay or Amazon. These platforms often have a wide selection of used mirrorless cameras from various brands, allowing you to compare prices and conditions before making a purchase.
- Camera Stores: Local camera stores often have a selection of used mirrorless cameras available for purchase. These stores typically offer quality-checked products and may even provide warranties or return policies for added peace of mind.
- Photography Forums: Online photography forums and communities are great places to find second-hand mirrorless cameras. Members often list their gear for sale, and you can communicate directly with sellers to negotiate prices and ask questions about the equipment.
- Camera Rental Companies: Some camera rental companies sell their used gear after a certain period. These cameras are usually well-maintained and come at a lower price than buying new. Check with local rental companies to see if they have any mirrorless cameras available for sale.
Tips for Buying a Used Mirrorless Camera
When purchasing a used mirrorless camera for portrait photography, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you are getting a quality product that meets your needs.
1. Check the Shutter Count
One of the most important things to check when buying a used mirrorless camera is the shutter count. The shutter count indicates how many photos the camera has taken and can give you an idea of its overall condition and lifespan. Make sure to ask the seller for the shutter count and compare it to the camera’s expected shutter life.
2. Inspect the Camera Body
- Check for any signs of wear and tear on the camera body, such as scratches, dents, or scuffs.
- Ensure all buttons, dials, and ports are working properly.
- Look for any signs of water damage or corrosion.
3. Test the Autofocus System
Autofocus is crucial for portrait photography, so it’s important to test the camera’s autofocus system to ensure it is working accurately and quickly. Take some test shots to see how well the camera focuses on different subjects and in various lighting conditions.
4. Research the Model
Before buying a used mirrorless camera, research the specific model to learn about its features, performance, and any common issues. Look for online reviews and user experiences to get a better understanding of what to expect from the camera.
5. Buy from a Reputable Seller
When purchasing a used mirrorless camera, it’s best to buy from a reputable seller, such as a professional photographer, camera store, or online marketplace with good reviews and customer protection policies. This can help ensure you are getting a reliable product and have options for returns or refunds if needed.
By following these tips and being diligent in your research and inspection, you can find a high-quality used mirrorless camera for portrait photography that fits your budget and meets your needs.
Best used mirrorless camera for portraits
Panasonic LUMIX G85 4K Digital Camera, 12-60mm Power O.I.S. Lens, 16 Megapixel Mirrorless Camera, 5 Axis In-Body Dual Image Stabilization, 3-Inch Tilt and Touch LCD, DMC-G85MK (Black)
$697.99
7 used from $592.02
Features
- Fine Detail Performance: 16 megapixel micro four thirds sensor with no low pass filter resulting in a near 10 percent boost in fine detail resolving power over existing 16 megapixel micro four thirds sensors; Color temperature setting 2500 to 10000K in 100K
- Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera: With 12 60 millimeter lens, Shoot lighter and faster with the modern hybrid photography performance of a mirrorless camera and nearly half the bulk of most DSLRs
- Class Leading Dual Image Stabilization: In body 5 axis dual image stabilization works in both photo and motion picture recording including 4K video to produce clear handheld shots even in low light conditions. Diopter adjustment: minus-4.0 to plus-4.0 (dpt)
- Live Viewfinder and Flip LCD Display: Integrated eye level OLED live viewfinder (2360K dots) and rear touch Enabled 3 inch LCD Display (1040K dots) adjusts for optimal viewing angles to maximize viewing
- 4K video Capture: 4K QFHD video recording (3840 x 2160), plus exclusive Lumix 4K photo and 4K Post Focus allows you to record photos up to 30fps and set your desired focus points after the photo has been Taken

| Price history for Panasonic LUMIX G85 4K Digital Camera, 12-60mm Power O.I.S. Lens, 16 Megapixel Mirrorless Camera, 5 Axis In-Body Dual Image Stabilization, 3-Inch Tilt and Touch LCD, DMC-G85MK (Black) | |
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Panasonic LUMIX FZ300 Long Zoom Digital Camera Features 12.1 Megapixel, 1/2.3-Inch Sensor, 4K Video, WiFi, Splash & Dustproof Camera Body, LEICA DC 24X F2.8 Zoom Lens - DMC-FZ300K - (Black) USA
7 used from $398.86
Features
- 4K video and 4K photo: Panasonic’s exclusive 4K photo technology uses 30 frames per second in high resolution 4K ultra HD video to extract them as photos; You’ll never miss that moment again
- Leica DC Vario Elmarit lens: 24x zoom (25 600 millimeter with Full zoom range F2; 8 aperture for enhanced low light shooting meeting the stringent quality standards established by Leica
- High image Quality: The 12.1 Megapixel high sensitivity MOS sensor with the venus engine excels in diffraction compensation, yielding images that are crisp and Free from artifacts associated with small aperture settings
- Rugged Camera Design: Splash Proof/dustproof rugged camera design with tight seals on every Joint, dial and button, so it stands up to harsh weather conditions and challenging
- 5 Axis Hybrid Optical Image Stabilizer Plus: Reduces blur from 1 handed video shooting by compensating for 5 types of movement; Level shot function detects horizon line and maintains it, even if the camera is tilted

| Price history for Panasonic LUMIX FZ300 Long Zoom Digital Camera Features 12.1 Megapixel, 1/2.3-Inch Sensor, 4K Video, WiFi, Splash & Dustproof Camera Body, LEICA DC 24X F2.8 Zoom Lens - DMC-FZ300K - (Black) USA | |
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Canon EOS RP Full-Frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera + RF24-105mm Lens F4-7.1 is STM Lens Kit- Compact and Lightweight for Traveling and Vlogging, Black (3380C132)
Features
- Compact, Lightweight and High-Quality RF Lens with a Versatile Zoom Range of 24-105 millimeter
- Optical Image Stabilization at up to 5 stops of shake correction
- Maximum Magnification of 0.4x and Minimum Focusing Distance of 0.66 feet in Auto Focus.
- Maximum Magnification of 0.5x and Minimum Focusing Distance of 0.43 ft. when using Center Focus Macro.
- Use the EOS Utility Webcam Beta Software (Mac and Windows) to turn your Canon camera into a high-quality webcam, or do the same using a clean HDMI output.


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Nikon Z 50 with Two Lenses | Compact mirrorless stills/video camera with wide-angle and telephoto zoom lenses | Nikon USA Model
$1,146.95
7 used from $999.00
Features
- Compact, lightweight and durably constructed mirrorless camera
- First DX-format mirrorless camera to use a large 55 millimeter lens mount, offering advantages in high image quality and lowlight performance.
- 20.9 MP sensor with robust 4K UHD video features
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for simple pairing to a smartphone.
- "Selfie" flip down touch LCD screen, great for self-portraits and vlogging.

| Price history for Nikon Z 50 with Two Lenses | Compact mirrorless stills/video camera with wide-angle and telephoto zoom lenses | Nikon USA Model | |
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Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S | Premium large aperture 85mm portrait prime lens for Z series mirrorless cameras | Nikon USA Model
$696.95
14 used from $609.98
Features
- 85mm f/1.8 lens with nine blade diaphragm for soft rounded book
- Lens features 2 ED glass elements and Nano Crystal coating for lifelike accuracy
- Dust and drip resistant, the lens is extensively sealed to keep out dust and moisture
- Features customizable control ring

| Price history for Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S | Premium large aperture 85mm portrait prime lens for Z series mirrorless cameras | Nikon USA Model | |
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Nikon Z 5 with Compact Zoom Lens | Our most compact full-frame mirrorless stills/video camera with 24-50mm zoom lens | Nikon USA Model
7 used from $1,119.00
Features
- 24.3MP Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera | Nikon’s most compact, lightweight full-frame interchangeable lens Z series camera
- Versatile Zoom Lens | Includes the sleek NIKKOR Z 24-50mm f/4–6.3 compact zoom lens; covers the wide-angle to normal focal length range
- Outstanding Image Quality | Sharp, lifelike details, vibrant colors and great low-light performance
- 4K/30p and 1080/60p Video Recording | Crisp, smooth videos with shallow depth of field; USB power delivery; HDMI output
- Eye-Detection Autofocus | Automatically locks onto the eyes of people, dogs and cats and tracks them as they move around the frame

| Price history for Nikon Z 5 with Compact Zoom Lens | Our most compact full-frame mirrorless stills/video camera with 24-50mm zoom lens | Nikon USA Model | |
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Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens | Built-in Wi-Fi | 24.1 MP CMOS Sensor | DIGIC 4+ Image Processor and Full HD Videos
Features
- 24.1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor with is 100–6400 (H: 12800)
- Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC technology
- 9-Point AF system and AI Servo AF
- Optical Viewfinder with approx 95% viewing coverage
- Use the EOS Utility Webcam Beta Software (Mac and Windows) to turn your compatible Canon camera into a high-quality webcam. Compatible Lenses- Canon EF Lenses (including EF-S lenses, excluding EF-M lenses)


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Canon EOS M200 Compact Mirrorless Digital Vlogging Camera with EF-M 15-45mm Lens, Vertical 4K Video Support, 3.0-inch Touch Panel LCD, Built-in Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth Technology, Black
Features
- Fast and accurate Dual Pixel CMOS AF with eye detection AF
- High-image quality with 24.1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor.
- 4K video and 4K time-lapse movie along with vertical video
- 3.0-Inch touch panel LCD screen with tilt Option for 180° for selfies.
- Built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technology with auto image transfer.

| Price history for Canon EOS M200 Compact Mirrorless Digital Vlogging Camera with EF-M 15-45mm Lens, Vertical 4K Video Support, 3.0-inch Touch Panel LCD, Built-in Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth Technology, Black | |
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Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Vlogging Camera (White) w/RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 is STM Lens, 24.2 MP, 4K Video, Subject Detection & Tracking, Compact, Smartphone Connection, Content Creator
$649.00
Features
- Compact, lightweight RF mount camera with a 24.2 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor and DIGIC X processor.
- 4K uncropped movie with Dual Pixel CMOS AF II at up to 30 fps oversampled from 6K and Full HD High-frame rate movie at up to 120 fps. Movie for Close-up Demo Mode quickly switches focus when a product is brought close to the camera.
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF II covering up to 100% x 100% area with 651 AF zones with auto subject detection and tracking of people, animals, and vehicles using deep learning technology
- Continuous shooting with 12 fps with Electronic First Curtain and 15 fps with Electronic Shutter.
- Take great shots even in difficult settings with Advanced A+ Assist which offers an expanded array of auto-compatible scenes enabling greater expressive capability in auto mode, and built-in flash for shooting in dark environments or with backlit scenes.

| Price history for Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Vlogging Camera (White) w/RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 is STM Lens, 24.2 MP, 4K Video, Subject Detection & Tracking, Compact, Smartphone Connection, Content Creator | |
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Canon EOS R100 Mirrorless Camera, RF Mount, 24.1 MP, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, Continuous Shooting, Eye Detection AF, Full HD Video, 4K, Small, Lightweight, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Content Creation
$379.00
1 used from $399.00
Features
- Compact, lightweight EOS R series camera with an affordable price
- Smallest and lightest camera body in the EOS R series1 built for excellent mobility
- High image quality with a 24.1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor and DIGIC 8 processor
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF covering a wide area2 up to 143 zones with auto subject detection and Eye Detection AF available with Servo AF.
- Continuous capture of up to 6.5 shots per second when set to One-Shot AF


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Q&A:
What is the best used mirrorless camera for portraits under $500?
The Sony Alpha a6000 is considered one of the best mirrorless cameras for portraits under $500. It offers a 24.3MP sensor, fast autofocus, and good low-light performance.
Which used mirrorless camera is known for its excellent skin tones in portraits?
The Fujifilm X-T2 is praised for its excellent skin tones in portraits. Its film simulation modes and colour science make it a popular choice among portrait photographers.
What is a good used mirrorless camera for portrait photography with a budget of $1000?
The Canon EOS M50 is a great option for portrait photography under $1000. It offers a 24.1MP sensor, Dual Pixel autofocus, and a fully articulating touchscreen.
Which used mirrorless camera is recommended for professional portrait photography?
The Sony Alpha a7 III is highly recommended for professional portrait photography. It features a full-frame sensor, excellent dynamic range, and impressive low-light performance.
