If you’re in the market for a new camera, you might be wondering if a mirrorless camera is the right choice for you.
Mirrorless cameras are a relatively new technology that combines the best features of compact and DSLR cameras.
I used to shoot with a bulky Nikon D3000 DSLR. I loved the camera, but I needed a huge bag to carry it around – and that was just with the stock lens!
Some time ago, I picked up a Canon EOS M50 and I’ve been in love with it ever since. It’s super-compact, takes great photos (even though it’s APS-C and not full-frame), and also doubles as an amazing video camera.
In this post, I’ll break down some of the key advantages of mirrorless cameras to help you make a decision and hopefully convert you to a mirrorless fan by the end of it!
Canon EOS M50 in hand, image: MT/AP
Most Mirrorless cameras are compact
One of the biggest advantages of mirrorless cameras is their size. Because they don’t have a reflex mirror like DSLRs, they can be much smaller and more lightweight.
This makes them ideal for travel or everyday use. However, just because they’re smaller doesn’t mean they sacrifice quality. Mirrorless cameras can still have large sensors that allow them to produce high-quality images.
Another great feature of mirrorless cameras is that you can switch lenses just like you would on a DSLR. This gives you a lot of flexibility when it comes to choosing the right lens for the situation.
Mirrorless cameras are quiet
DSLR cameras have a reflex mirror that flips up when you take a picture, which causes the loud “clacking” sound you often hear. Mirrorless cameras don’t have this reflex mirror, so they’re much quieter. This can be beneficial in many situations, such as when you’re trying to take candid shots or photograph wildlife without drawing attention to yourself.
Some manufacturers even add a digital shutter sound to mirrorless cameras so you can still “hear” when the photo is taken. In general, though, these types of cameras are much quieter than DSLRs.
Mirrorless cameras can last longer than DSLRs
Because mirrorless cameras don’t have a reflex mirror, they have fewer moving parts overall. This means that there’s less chance of something going wrong and the camera breaking down.
Of course, this isn’t to say that mirrorless cameras are immune to problems, but it does mean that they’re usually more reliable than DSLRs. So, if you’re looking for a camera that you can depend on, a mirrorless camera might be the best option for you.
A mirrorless camera lets you see the actual image through the viewfinder
For many photographers, the viewfinder is an essential tool. It allows you to see the scene in front of you, framed exactly as it will appear in the final photo.
With a traditional DSLR camera, the viewfinder shows you a live image that is reflected from the mirror.
Mirrorless cameras work differently; instead of using a mirror to reflect the image from the lens onto the display, they use an electronic viewfinder (EVF).
This has several advantages.
First, it allows you to see the image exactly as it will be captured by the sensor, with all of the same exposure and focus settings. Second, it gives you a live preview of any changes that you make to those settings.
Whether you’re a professional photographer or a casual shooter, a mirrorless camera can give you a whole new level of control over your images.
The mirrorless camera is great for vlogging
If you’re thinking of starting a vlog, then you might be wondering what kind of camera to use. When it comes to vlogging, mirrorless cameras are a great option for vlogging and video.
Unlike DSLRs, most mirrorless cameras are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry around with you. They also have flip-up or flip-out screens, which is handy for recording yourself.
Plus, most newer cameras can record in 4K quality, so your videos will look super sharp.
Mirrorless cameras are an excellent choice for anyone who wants the quality of a DSLR without bulkiness. With their large sensors and interchangeable lenses, mirrorless cameras offer excellent flexibility and performance.
And because they’re smaller and quieter than DSLRs, they’re perfect for everyday use or travel photography.
Shabbir Noor (oneyearwithfilmonly.com) – Shabbir is an amateur photographer with a penchant for writing. When he doesn’t have a camera in his hands, you may find him flying a drone to capture some great aerial shots.
The views expressed in this column are not necessarily those of Amateur Photographer magazine or Kelsey Media Limited. If you have an opinion you’d like to share on this topic, or any other photography related subject, email: ap.ed@kelsey.co.uk
Further reading:
What are the smallest mirrorless cameras?
Is it time we bid farewell to the DSLR?
Is this the end for compact cameras?
