<p>This isn’t just about the heavy hitters in the photography world. We’ve also kept an eye out for those who are just dipping their toes into the vast ocean of photography. Speaking of oceans and photography, we also have a <a href=”https://www.esquire.com/lifestyle/g41486062/best-travel-cameras/”>guide for the best travel cameras</a>. Simplicity, ease of use, and a gentle learning curve have been key factors in our selection. For the seasoned photographers, we’ve included beasts that can capture every detail, color, and texture like a dream.</p><p>So, whether you’re about to embark on a photographic journey or looking to upgrade your gear, our guide through these 15 exceptional cameras will be your beacon. </p>”/>
Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links.
Best Camera for Beginners
Canon EOS R10
Best Camera for Beginners
Canon EOS R10
Pros
- Great versatility between photo and video
- Compact
Cons
- Not great quality after dark
The Canon EOS R10 boasts impressive features like a high-resolution sensor for detailed images, rapid-fire shooting capabilities for capturing action shots, and advanced autofocus that makes it a breeze to snap sharp, in-focus pictures. It’s like having a mini studio in your hands, with the added bonus of beginner-friendly controls that guide you through the magic of photography. This camera does a great job of transforming those early “oops” moments into “wow” shots, all while keeping your wallet relatively happy.
Sensor | 24.2MP APS-C Dual Pixel CMOS AF II |
---|---|
Image Processor | DIGIC X |
In-Body Image Stabilization | No |
AF Points | 4,503-Point |
Viewfinder | 0.39-inch OLED EVF, 2.36 million dots |
Display | 3.0-inch Vari-angle colour LCD Touch Screen, 1.04 million dots |
ISO | 100-32,000 (expandable to 51,200) |
Max Video Resolution | 4K at 60p (cropped) |
Ports | USB type-C, micro HDMI, mic mini jack, headphone mini jack, hot shoe, E3 remote control |
Storage | 1x SD/SDHC/SDXC UHS-II |
Wireless | Wi-Fi 2.4GHz, Bluetooth 4.2 |
Shooting Speed | 15fps Mechanical, 23fps Electronic |
Battery Life (CIPA) | 430 Shots |
Size | 4.82″ x 3.45″ x 3.28″ |
Weight | 15 Ounces |
Best for Outdoor Photography
Sony Alpha 7R V
Best for Outdoor Photography
Sony Alpha 7R V
Pros
- Phenomenal Image Quality and detail
- Lightweight and adored by professionals
Cons
- Price
The Sony Alpha 7R V (A7R5) is a rugged, high-resolution beast perfect for outdoor photography adventures. Imagine capturing every leaf and dewdrop in stunning detail with its mega-resolution sensor while its robust build laughs in the face of harsh weather.
Plus, its advanced autofocus is like having a hawk-eyed assistant, ensuring your shots are crisp and clear, whether you’re snapping a butterfly mid-flight or a sunset over rugged mountains. This camera is the outdoor photographer’s dream, turning every expedition into a gallery-worthy exhibit.
Image Processor | BIONZ XR |
---|---|
In-Body Image Stabilization | No |
AF Points | Contrast-detection AF with 25 points |
Viewfinder | 0.71x |
Display | Tiltable 3″ LCD with 921,600 dots |
ISO | 100–32,000 (expandable to 50–102,400) |
Max Video Resolution | 8K at up to 25p (cropped) |
Ports | HDMI Type-A, flash sync terminal, USB-C, USB-micro, headphone, and microphone jack |
Storage | 1x SD, UHS-1 |
Wireless | 802.11b/g/n + NFC + Bluetooth |
Shooting Speed | 4.0fps |
Battery Life (CIPA) | 340 Shots |
Size | 5″ x 3.72″ x 1.9″ |
Weight | 407g |
Best Camera for Video
Panasonic Lumix S5 II
Best Camera for Video
Panasonic Lumix S5 II
Pros
- Advanced Image Stabilization
- Support all aspect ratios
Cons
- Not best for shooting in slow motion
Think of the Panasonic Lumix S5M2 as your ultimate video wingman. It’s got a stabilizer that makes your handheld shots super smooth like you’ve got a gimbal in your hands. And the autofocus? Spot on. It keeps everything crystal clear, no matter how fast-paced your scene is. Plus, it can handle long shooting sessions without overheating—a real trooper for those endless takes.
Image Processor | L2 Technology |
---|---|
In-Body Image Stabilization | Yes |
AF Points | 779 Selectable Points |
Viewfinder | 0.78x |
Display | Large 3.0″ 1.84m-dot LCD |
ISO | 100 to 51200 in 1/3 EV increments. |
Max Video Resolution | 24 Megapixels, 6k video, built-in stabilisation, 30fps bursts, and unlimited recording |
Ports | HDMI Type-A, 2.5mm, USB-C, USB-micro, 3.5mm headphone and microphone jack |
Storage | Dual SD slots support UHS-II V90 |
Wireless | 2.4 / 5 GHz Wi-Fi (802.11b/g), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 5.0 |
Shooting Speed | Up to 9fps with mechanical shutter. Up to 30fps with electronic shutter |
Battery Life (CIPA) | 370 Shots |
Size | 5.29″ x 4.03″ x 3.55″ |
Weight | 740g |
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Best Camera for Content Creators
FUJIFILM X-S20
Best Camera for Content Creators
FUJIFILM X-S20
Pros
- Dedicated mode just for vlogging
- 4K/60p live streaming
Cons
- Not weather sealed
The Fujifilm X-S20 is like the Swiss Army knife for influencers—sorry, Content Creators. This camera is compact, versatile, and always ready for action. Its high-resolution sensor ensures your photos pop with detail, while the subject-detection autofocus keeps you in the spotlight, whether you’re capturing fashion, food, or travel adventures.
For those vlog moments, its new Vlog mode and Product Priority mode make shooting videos a breeze. This camera’s blend of quality and portability makes it a top pick for influencers on the go.
Image processor | X-Processor 5 |
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In-body Image Stabilization | Yes (movie mode only) |
AF Points | 425 |
Viewfinder | 0.62x with 50mm Lens |
Display | Built-in OLED viewfinder with a magnification of 2.36m-dot touch-enabled LCD |
ISO | 160 to 12800 (80 to 51200 extended) |
Max Video Resolution | Up to 6.2K internally at 30P in 4:2:2 10-bit color. It can also record 4K/60P video and 1080/240P high-speed video. |
Ports | USB-C: With power delivery for charging, Micro HDMI: For connecting to a computer via USB, 2.5mm microphone jack: Can also accept a wired shutter release 3.5mm headphone terminal: On the grip |
Storage | Single SD card slot |
Wireless | 802.11b/g/n + Bluetooth |
Shooting Speed | Up to 20fps continuous shooting with electronic shutter (30fps with 1.25x crop) 1/4000th second max. shutter speed (1/32,000th using the electronic shutter) |
Battery Life (CIPA) | 750 frames in normal mode and 800 frames in economy mode |
Size | 5″ x 3.35″ x 2.56″ |
Weight | 491g |
Best for Filmakers
Panasonic Lumix BS1H
Best for Filmakers
Panasonic Lumix BS1H
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Pros
- 5.9k capture
- Can operate solo or with crew
Cons
- No V-mount battery option
Like a filmmaking ninja, the Panasonic Lumix BS1H is compact, stealthy, and shockingly powerful. It’s a full-frame camera in a box-style design, perfect for squeezing into tight spaces or perching on gimbals. With 6K resolution and V-Log, it captures film-quality footage with ease. Plus, its versatile connectivity options make it a cinch to fit into any professional setup. It’s the ideal choice for filmmakers who want high quality in a quirky, small package.
Image Processor | Venus Engine |
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In-body Image Stabilization | No |
AF Points | 225 |
Viewfinder | Electronic viewfinder (EVF) with resolution of 5,760,000 dots, magnification of 0.78x, and a maximum refresh rate of 120 fps. The camera also has a 3.5-inch vari-angle touchscreen |
Display | 3.2″ 2.33m-dot tilt free-angle touchscreen LCD |
ISO | 6K resolution at maximum ISO 51200 |
Max Video Resolution | 6K 24p / 5.9K 30p 10-bit unlimited video recording capability |
Ports | USB 3.1 Type-C. 3G-SDI (BNC), HDMI Type-A, 3.5 mm headphone output. 3.5 mm input, 2.5 mm LANC control input, Dual UHS-II card slots |
Storage | Two internal SD card slots—for simultaneous or relay recording |
Wireless | 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi (802.11b/g), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n), Bluetooth Video Output, Control |
Shooting Speed | 1/16000 to 1/2 sec |
Battery Life (CIPA) | Single Panasonic AG-VBR59 battery—can last for about two hours |
Size | Approx. (Excluding Protrusions) 3.66″ x 3.66″ x 3.1″ |
Weight | 585 g |
Best Camera for Portraits
Nikon Z 7II
Best Camera for Portraits
Nikon Z 7II
Pros
- Great value
- 45MP sensor, which means more resolution and sharper images
Cons
- Tilt-angle display, not vari-angle
The Nikon Z 7II is a portrait photographer’s dream. Its high-resolution sensor ensures every detail, from freckles to the softest hair, is captured with crystal clarity. The eye-detection autofocus is like having a personal assistant that never misses a focus on the eyes, which is vital for portrait perfection. Plus, its dual card slots mean you can keep shooting without worry. This camera is like a painter’s brush, capturing the soul in every portrait.
Image Processor | Dual EXPEED 6 |
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In-Body Image Stabilization | Yes (5-stops 5-axis image sensor shift) |
AF Points | 493 |
Viewfinder | EVF, 3,690k dots, 100% coverage |
Display | 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen |
ISO | 64 to 25,600 |
Max Video Resolution | Uncropped 4K UHD up to 30p, cropped 4K UHD up to 60p |
Ports | USB 3.0: A C connector, External USB-C charging: The camera can be charged by plugging it into an outlet using the external EH-7P cord, or using a battery with suitable charger, 120 mm connection: A removable port with a bayonet connection |
Storage | One slot accepts CFexpress (Type B) and XQD cards, The other slot accepts standard SD cards |
Wireless | WiFi 802.11ac (SnapBridge or Nikon Wireless Transmitter Utility), Bluetooth 4.2 (SnapBridge) |
Shooting Speed | 10 FPS RAW |
Battery Life (CIPA) | 420 Shots |
Size | 5.3″ x 4.0″ x 2.8″ |
Weight | 615 g |
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Best for Sports Photography
Nikon Z9
Best for Sports Photography
Nikon Z9
Pros
- Fast and accurate autofocus
- Fastest still image frame rate of 120 fps
Cons
- Limited buffer
The Nikon Z9 is a powerhouse for capturing movement and sports. Its blazing-fast autofocus locks onto subjects precisely, crucial for fast-paced action. The camera’s high-speed continuous shooting means you won’t miss a millisecond of the excitement. Its robust, weather-sealed body stands up to challenging outdoor conditions, perfect for any sports event. This camera is like a seasoned sports photographer, always ready to catch the peak of the action.
Sensor | 45.7MP back-side illuminated stacked sensor |
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Image Processor | Expeed 7 |
AF Points | 493 hybrid phase/contrast detect AF points |
ISO Range | 64 to 25,600 (Expandable 32 to 102,400) |
Stabilization | 5-axis, 5.5 stops (up to 6 stops with specific lenses) |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/32,000 Second |
Video | 8K up to 60p (via upcoming firmware), 4K up to 120p • 8- or 10-bit H.265, 10-bit Apple ProRes 4:2:2 HQ (firmware), 12-bit in-camera ProRes RAW HQ (firmware) |
Viewfinder | Super-bright OLED, 3.69m dots, 100% coverage |
Memory Cards | 2x CFexpress Type B |
LCD | 3-inch bi-directional tilting touchscreen, 1.04m dots |
Max Burst | 20fps RAW, 30fps hi-res JPEG, 120fps lo-res JPEG |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet, USB-C, headphone jack, mic jack |
Size | 5.87″ x 5.89″ x 3.56″ |
Weight | 1,160g |
Best High End Camera
Nikon Z8
Best High End Camera
Nikon Z8
Pros
- Dual-axis touch LCD
- Sturdy, weather-sealed build
Cons
- Battery life could be better
The Nikon Z8 is a gem in the high-end camera market. It boasts a blend of top-tier resolution, speed, and image quality, making it a standout choice for professionals and serious enthusiasts. The camera’s robust build and advanced features cater to a wide range of photographic needs, from studio work to wildlife photography. It’s a tool that combines precision and versatility, offering unmatched quality in the high-end segment.
Image Processor | Expeed 7 |
---|---|
In-body Image Stabilization | Yes (5-axis, 5.5 stops—up to 6 stops with specific lenses) |
AF Points | 493 phase-detect points, 493 contrast-detect points |
Viewfinder | Super-bright OLED, 3.69m dots, 100% coverage |
Display | 3-inch bi-directional tilting touchscreen, 1.04m dots |
ISO | 64-256,000 (Expandable to ISO 32-102,400) |
Max Video Resolution | 8K up to 60p, 4K up to 120p • 8- or 10-bit H.265, 10-bit Apple ProRes 4:2:2 HQ, 12-bit in-camera ProRes RAW HQ |
Ports | SuperSpeed USB, Dedicated USB for power, 1000BASE-T Wired-LAN, HDMI, Microphone port, One CFe Type B card slot, One SD UHS-II card slot |
Storage | CFexpress (Type B), XQD, SD, SDHC, SDXC |
Wireless | 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi |
Shooting Speed | 20fps shooting speed (30fps if shooting in jpeg) |
Battery Life (CIPA) | 340 Shots |
Size | 5.67″ x 4.65″ x 3.27″ |
Weight | 910g |
Best Camera on a Budget
Nikon D3500
Best Camera on a Budget
Nikon D3500
Pros
- Great battery life
- Easy to use
Cons
- Can’t shoot in 4K
Ideal for budget-conscious photography enthusiasts, the Nikon D3500 shines with its simplicity and efficiency. Its 24.2MP sensor delivers quality images, and the camera’s lightweight design and long-lasting battery are perfect for on-the-go shooting. This model makes photography accessible and enjoyable, especially for beginners. Its combination of affordability and performance is unmatched in the entry-level market.
Image Processor | Expeed 4 |
---|---|
In-Body Image Stabilization | No |
AF Points | 11 |
Viewfinder | Eye-level pentamirror single-lens reflex |
Display | 3-inch LCD display with 921,000 dots of resolution |
ISO | 100–25600 |
Max Video Resolution | 1920 x 1080 60fps |
Ports | Compatible with SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards with 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB, or 128 GB of storage |
Storage | CFexpress (Type B), XQD, SD, SDHC, SDXC |
Wireless | Not Wi-Fi enabled, but it can transfer images wirelessly via Bluetooth using Nikon’s SnapBridge application |
Shooting Speed | 5fps at full resolution |
Battery Life (CIPA) | 1,550 Shots |
Size | 4.88″ x 3.82″ x 2.76″ |
Weight | 365g |
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Best Vintage Point and Shoot
Olympus MJU-II Stylus Epic
Best Vintage Point and Shoot
Olympus MJU-II Stylus Epic
Pros
- Well rounded
- Fast autofocus
Cons
- Some find it difficult to use
The Olympus MJU-II Stylus Epic is revered in the vintage camera world. Its compactness and sturdiness make it a go-to for travel photography. Known for its sharp lens, it captures vivid images with that classic film quality. Simple to use with dependable autofocus, it appeals to a wide range of photographers, from novices to experts. This camera encapsulates the essence of vintage point-and-shoots cherished for their analog charm. This one for $290 is standard in terms of the price you’ll find second-hand.
Lens | 35mm f/2.8 |
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Viewfinder | Yes |
Power | CR123A Battery |
Autofocus | Half-press of the shutter button engages multi-beam autofocus |
On/Off Mechanism | Works with the clamshell cover |
Size | 4.25″ x 2.32″ x 1.38″ |
Weight | 135g |
Best for Vertical Shots
Nikon Z50
Best for Vertical Shots
Nikon Z50
Pros
- Weather sealed
- Great video quality
Cons
- Flip down screen not very practical
Ideal for vertical shots, the Nikon Z 50 features a design that’s easy to handle upright, perfect for today’s social media trends. Its flip-down LCD is a boon for framing shots from unique angles, enhancing selfies and vlogging experiences. Compact and user-friendly, this camera caters to the needs of content creators who prioritize vertical format in their work.
Image Processor | Expeed 6 |
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In-Body Image Stabilization | No (However, it does come with two kit lenses that have image stabilization) |
AF Points | 209 |
Viewfinder | Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) with a 0.99-cm/0.39-in magnification, 2360k-dot (XGA) OLED, and color balance |
Display | 3.2 inch tilting TFT monitor. It has a resolution of 1,040,000 dots |
ISO | 100–51200, Expandable to 204,800 |
Max Video Resolution | 3840 x 2160 and a maximum video quality of 4K 30fps |
Ports | USB: Micro-B USB 2.0 connector that can be used to charge the camera’s battery, Micro HDMI: Type D HDMI connector |
Storage | Single slot for SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I) memory cards |
Wireless | 2.4 / 5 GHz Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 4.2 |
Shooting Speed | Up to 11fps at 20.9 MP |
Battery Life (CIPA) | 300 Shots |
Size | 4.98″ x 3.68″ x 2.36″ |
Weight | 395g |
Best Compact Camera
Sony RX100 VII
Best Compact Camera
Sony RX100 VII
Pros
- Tilting touch screen
- Great eye detection capabilities
Cons
- Expensive
Packing a punch in a pint-sized package, the Sony RX100 VII is a marvel of compact camera engineering. Imagine having the power of a pro camera that fits in your pocket!
It’s a dynamo with a 1-inch sensor and top-notch lens, ensuring superb image quality. The autofocus is lightning-fast, a dream for capturing life on the go. Plus, it’s a vlogger’s best friend with its 4K video chops—a true heavyweight in the world of lightweight cameras.
Image Processor | BIONZ X |
---|---|
In-Body Image Stabilization | Yes |
AF Points | 357 |
Viewfinder | 0.39-type electronic viewfinder(OLED), 2,359,296 dots |
Display | 3-inch touchscreen |
ISO | Auto: (ISO100–ISO12800 Level, selectable with upper/lower limit), |
Max Video Resolution | 4K / 30p HD / 120p |
Ports | 3.5 mm microphone port, Micro HDMI port: An uncompressed 4K/30p output, Micro USB socket |
Storage | SD/ SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo |
Wireless | IEEE802.11b/g/n(2.4GHz band, Bluetooth Standard Ver. 4.1 (2.4 GHz band) |
Shooting Speed | Up to 11fps at 20.9MP |
Battery Life (CIPA) | 310 Shots |
Size | 4″ x 2.29″ x 1.69″ |
Weight | 275g |
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Best Drone Camera
DJI Air 3
Best Drone Camera
DJI Air 3
Pros
- Long battery
- Easy to fly
Cons
- One button is programmable
The DJI Air 3 is a game-changer in the world of drone cameras. It captures the world from above with its stellar 1-inch sensor, ensuring top-notch image quality. It’s like having a flying photography studio. The drone’s design smartly balances compactness with advanced features, including intuitive obstacle sensing for safe navigation. Plus, its extended battery life means more time in the air, more shots, and more fun. It’s a dream for aerial photography buffs, offering stunning high-res views from the skies.
Image Processor | Two 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensors. These sensors are Type 1/1.3 Quad Bayer sensors that support 10-bit color in a D-Log, HLG, or standard profile |
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In-Body Image Stabilization | Yes |
AF Points | Wide-angle camera: 82° FOV, 24 mm format equivalent, f/1.7 aperture, 1 m to ∞ focusMedium tele camera: 35° FOV, 70 mm format equivalent, f/2.8 aperture, 3 m to ∞ focus |
Viewfinder | Vision Assist feature that provides real-time views from the front, back, left, and right. It also has an omnidirectional vision system and a three-dimensional infrared sensing system |
Display | Built-in 5.5-inch FHD screen on the RC2 controller. |
ISO | 100-6400 |
Max Video Resolution | 4K/100fps |
Ports | USB-C |
Storage | 8 GB of onboard storage (about 15 minutes worth of 4K video) |
Storage Cards Supported | UHS-I Speed Grade 3 or higher microSD; SDXC and UHS-I microSD cards with a maximum capacity of 512 GB |
Wireless | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.2 |
Battery Life (CIPA) | Approx. 80 minutes (with DJI 65W Portable Charger), Approx. 60 minutes (with DJI 100W USB-C Power Adapter and Battery Charging Hub) |
Packed Size | 8.15″ × 3.96″ × 3.59″ |
Flying Size | 10.19″ x 12.83″ x 4.17″ |
Weight | 720g |
Best Instant Camera
Fujifilm Instax Square SQ1
Best Instant Camera
Fujifilm Instax Square SQ1
Pros
- Great aesthetic
- Performs really well in low light
Cons
- Not rechargeable
The Instax Square SQ1, an instant camera, stands out for its ease of use and the unique square format of its photos. It’s a blend of retro charm and modern functionality. This camera is particularly great for capturing quick, candid shots, and its built-in selfie mode ensures great self-portraits. It’s ideal for those who love the tangible feel of instant photos with a contemporary twist.
In-Body Image Stabilization | No |
---|---|
Viewfinder | Reverse Galilean finder, 0.4×, with target spot |
Shooting Speed | Programmed electronic shutter 1/2 to 1/400 sec. Slow synchro for low light |
Battery | Two CR2 Batteries |
Size | 5.28″ × 4.73″ × 2.38″ |
Weight | 453g |
Best Mirrorless Camera
Sony Alpha 7 IV
Best Mirrorless Camera
Sony Alpha 7 IV
Pros
- Reliable autofocus
- Good in low light
Cons
- Dynamic range is weaker than the competition once you exceed ISO 400
The Sony Alpha 7 IV is a standout in the mirrorless camera lineup. It’s like having a professional studio in your hands—the high-resolution sensor delivers stunning clarity in your shots. The autofocus system is impressively fast, capturing moments as they happen. And for video? It’s top-notch, offering high-quality recording. It’s ergonomically designed, making it comfortable for all-day use, a big plus for both professionals and photography enthusiasts.
Image Processor | Bionz XR |
---|---|
In-body Image Stabilization | Yes (Standard and Active) |
AF Points | 759 phase-detection AF points and 425 contrast-detection areas with 94% coverage |
Viewfinder | .68M-pixel OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) |
Display | 3-inch, 1.03M-dot vari-angle LCD touchscreen |
ISO | Auto, 100-51200 (expands to 50-204800) |
Max Video Resolution | 4K video at 60fps |
Ports | USB-C; USB Micro-B; HDMI port; 3.5mm headphone jack; 3.5mm external microphone port |
Storage | Slot 1: Supports UHS-II SDXC cards and CFexpress Type A cards. Slot 2: Supports SDXC cards only and UHS-II transfer speeds |
Wireless | 2.4 and 5 GHz bands + Bluetooth |
Shooting Speed | 10fps |
Battery Life (CIPA) | 580 Shots |
Size | 5.16″ x 3.78″ x 3.15″ |
Weight | 659g |
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