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Mirrorless Camera Vs DSLR

If you’re thinking of getting a new camera so you can take better photos and videos than you can with your phone, it pays to understand the key differences between a mirrorless camera vs DSLR. Both systems offer the ability to change lenses, capture brilliant photos and often video too, but what sets them apart and how do you choose between them?

DSLR cameras (which is an acronym for digital single-lens reflex camera) have been around for decades and are based on classic SLR film cameras. Mirrorless cameras are a newer technology (although they’ve been around since 2008) and manufactures are developing features for mirrorless at a rapid pace. But which is better for your style of shooting? We explore the pros and cons of each system, so that you can choose the best one for your creative style.

What are the Advantages of Mirrorless Cameras?

There are a number of key advantages to mirrorless cameras, which are making them ever more popular with everyone from beginners to professional photographers, vloggers and videographers. Some of the more notable advantages include:

• Mirrorless camera bodies tend to be smaller and lighter than an equivalent DSLR
• Many models feature in-body stabilisation, which helps you to capture smoother videos and sharper photos when handholding
• Numerous video-centric features are available for mirrorless camera users, including zebra focus lines, waveforms and live histograms, all visible in the viewfinder or LCD screen
• Mirrorless cameras use an electronic viewfinder (EVF), which allows you to punch in to check focus and can also display various camera settings
• A mirrorless camera adjusts the live view of a scene in real-time as you change settings, allowing you to gauge what you are shooting more precisely
• Focus systems are generally better in mirrorless cameras than DSLRs, with some brands offering advanced AI subject recognition, more accurate tracking and wider focus point coverage across the frame
• Mirrorless cameras are capable of faster burst shooting rates in both mechanical and electronic shutter mode, with 30fps, 60fps and even 120fps in some high-end models
• High-end mirrorless cameras are now able to shoot with no blackout, which means you won’t miss a single moment while tracking fast-moving subjects
• Sensors tend to be newer in mirrorless cameras, with higher megapixel counts and faster readout speeds
• You can shoot completely silently with a mirrorless, which is extremely beneficial in certain situations such as during weddings or for wildlife and street photography
• You can find a wide range of lens mount converters for mirrorless systems, allowing you to shoot with DSLR lenses and even adapt different lens brands to your camera
• A growing number of mirrorless systems can record in-camera 4K, 6K and 8K video without requiring an external video recorder

What are the Benefits of DSLR Cameras?

If you think about professional photography, the chances are you will visualise a DSLR camera. They’ve been around for many years and have established a reputation as being the choice of professionals. Despite this, mirrorless systems tend to steal the limelight these days, but there are still plenty of DSLR benefits, which include:

• DSLRs use an optical viewfinder, which allows you to view the actual scene in front of you, rather than an electronic representation of the scene
• Some DSLR cameras offer better battery life than an equivalent mirrorless, partly due to having an optical viewfinder, which doesn’t require any power
• Outdoor photographers may favour DSLRs for their durable build quality, competent weather sealing and more robust materials than a similar specification mirrorless camera
• Resale value can hold well for popular models, which is great when it comes to upgrading your camera
• There is a huge range of new and used DSLR lenses available as they have been around for longer, which also means you can find great deals on used lenses and save when extending your kit
• Certain users prefer the sturdier ergonomics of DSLRs as they feel more solid in the hand, particularly when they include a vertical grip

What’s the Difference Between Mirrorless Cameras and DSLRs?

Historically professionals have chosen DSLRs for the advantages listed above, however this is gradually changing as camera brands release flagship mirrorless cameras with more advanced technology than their DSLR counterparts.

The main advantages of DSLR vs. mirrorless is the removal of the reflex lens and optical viewfinder from a mirrorless camera. This results in more space being available to fit technology such as a stabilisation mechanism and also enables the camera body to be smaller and lighter. Stabilisation has helped mirrorless systems to become widely adopted for moviemaking, and mirrorless is the preferred choice for hybrid creators who shoot video as well as photos.

Newcomers to photography are fortunate as there are plenty of cameras for beginners to choose from, with excellent features to help progress your skills, whichever system you choose. With mirrorless being more compact and lightweight, they are often preferable when traveling with a camera, however sports and wildlife photographers may choose DSLRs for their robust build and the availability of many telephoto lenses.

Mirrorless Camera vs. DSLR: Which is Best for Me?

If you’re a professional photographer, then your best option is to choose a system which has the most comfortable ergonomics and relevant features for your style of photography. Some studio clients demand large, expensive-looking equipment, in which case a DSLR may instil more confidence. If you’re required to capture both stills and video for your editor, then a hybrid mirrorless camera will be a better choice, as they offer more advanced video features.

Beginners may be more comfortable with a compact mirrorless camera, such as the Canon R10 as they are lighter and offer hybrid capabilities, allowing you to capture photos and videos. However those on a budget may find DSLRs with the perfect features at a lower price point, especially when considering a used camera.

Both systems offer distinct advantages, with mirrorless being more compact, lighter and better for video, whilst DSLRs are known for being rugged and durable with great battery life. Whether you choose to shoot with a DSLR or mirrorless camera, you’ll be able to capture beautiful photos and high-quality videos, which are far better than you can with any smartphone.

Browse through a huge range of cameras today and find the perfect model to explore your ideas and create content sure to impress any audience.

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By Park Cameras on 28/05/2022