DC Photography Classes
Photographers who want creative and mechanical control in their shooting have two interesting camera styles to consider: Digital SLRs and Mirrorless cameras. Digital SLRs have evolved dramatically from their film predecessors. They are now lighter than before and offer a rich array of features. Mirrorless cameras are a newer style, but they continue to evolve to the point where they can be compared to the SLRs. Both styles are very capable and offer exciting possibilities. If you’re considering the purchase of an entry-level SLR or Mirrorless camera, here are some of the factors to evaluate as you make your decision. The focus here is at the entry level. As you go higher up in price point, the comparisons might differ slightly.
Size and Weight: SLRs have an optical system that uses a mirror and prism to bring the image through the lens to the viewfinder. This makes them a little larger and heavier than their Mirrorless counterparts. In terms of weight, when lenses are included, the differences are not always that dramatic ‑‑ in terms of dimensions, more so. A specific branch of the Mirrorless family, Micro Four-Thirds, uses a slightly smaller sensor, which allows even smaller lenses to be used. (I’ll spare you the physics behind this.) This type of camera is the smallest and lightest.
Lenses: SLR systems are mature, offering many choices of lenses. Nikon and Canon have been manufacturing photo equipment for years and have a wide array of choices. Mirrorless manufacturers, such as Sony and Fuji also have good options. And third-party manufacturers such as Sigma, Tamron and Tokina are making lenses for both types of cameras.
Viewfinder: SLR viewfinders utilize an optical path, which brings the image directly through the lens. They tend to be clearer and much better in low light. They also keep up perfectly with faster camera movement. Mirrorless viewfinders are electronic, which means a video image is transmitted into the viewfinder. One advantage that this provides is the possibility to display other information in the viewfinder such as a live histogram and focus peaking, which displays in-focus areas of a scene.
Focusing Systems: Digital SLRs use phase detection, which is faster than contrast-based systems. For sports and wildlife, this would make most SLRs more responsive. However, mirrorless systems can also be quite responsive.
Burst Shooting: Lacking a mirror, Mirrorless cameras can shoot at a slightly faster rate than their SLR counterparts. For action, this could be advantageous.
Operational Modes: Both styles of camera offer a full range of user controls when it comes to shooting and exposure control. SLRs tend to have easier menus and buttons to navigate than their Mirrorless counterparts and thus are easier to learn to use. Nikon has been particularly effective in implementing a user interface for their SLRs that is easy and friendly.
Battery Life: Digital SLRs can go quite a while before needing a battery change. Typically, one battery will last a full day of energetic shooting. Unfortunately, Mirrorless cameras are battery eaters. You should expect to carry several batteries with you and to have to charge them overnight if you’re using them in a travel shoot.
Cost: At the entry level, Digital SLRs are a bargain, with costs as low as $450 for an excellent 24MP sensor. Adding more features adds to the cost, but it’s still a relative bargain. Equivalent Mirrorless cameras are usually $150-200 more, but as always, sales and promotions may be helpful with either camera style.
Whatever style and model of camera you choose, Eliot will look forward to helping you become comfortable with it. Look for the three session Digital Camera Basics class, where you can get hands-on instruction and weekly feedback on the pictures you’re taking.
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You’ll enjoy the class and be on your way to making photography an exciting part of your day-to-day life.