The Great Camera Debate Part 2
Cameras with interchangeable lenses
The second category includes all cameras with interchangeable lenses; DSLR and Mirrorless cameras are in this group. Generally speaking the image quality is much better than small cameras, thanks to the overall larger sensor size in these cameras. But rather than grouping by sensor size, I am going to categorize them into three levels or groups based on functionality and complexity of operating systems:
1-Entry level interchangeable lens digital cameras:
The entry level camera with interchangeable lenses usually come with a ‘kit lens’, offered by camera manufacturers to get you started. These camera bodies provide all the basic settings and controls, as well as Program and Auto mode. In Auto mode they function as a luxury point and shoot camera, and because of the sensor size you can capture decent photos. There are many advanced accessories available for these cameras; for example, you can use pro lenses with them.
2- Prosumer level cameras
Prosumer is a term used to describe this class of camera body which is often priced at the consumer lever but enjoys some of the features of a professional body. Let’s take a look at some of these advanced features.
a- Navigation: The menu system and the shortcuts are useful features which allow you to quickly change the settings. These shortcuts are my favourite features for both pro and prosumer cameras.
b- Customizing: With prosumer cameras you can easily customize your camera’s shortcuts, dials and buttons to match your style of photography.
c-Weather Sealed: Almost all prosumer cameras are weather sealed to a certain degree. This is a big advantage for photographers because rain and dust won’t stop you from taking amazing shots. Please check with the camera manufacturer instructions to find out how weather sealed your camera is before exposing it to rain or other elements.
d- Better body construction: Usually prosumer cameras are built on a steel chassis and polycarbonate body, which make these cameras more durable. The down side is the weight! Prosumer cameras are bigger and heavier than entry level cameras.
e- More Fine Tweaking: Another big advantage of prosumer cameras is the ability to make fine tweaks and adjustments. Usually the focusing and metering are more advanced and accurate than entry level cameras; faster focusing and tracking focusing are appreciated by all serious photographers. By understanding these features and knowing how to apply them, many prosumer cameras perform like a pro camera!
f- Faster Frame Rate: Prosumer cameras are capable of taking more frames per second. For the sports shooter or for wild life photography, this a big thumbs up. Even if you are just taking pictures of your kids playing in a playground, you will appreciate the faster frame rate.
3- Pro Cameras:
The pro camera group offers the ultimate in creative controls and functionality. All of the advantages found in prosumer cameras are more and better in pro camera bodies. There are really only two cons: weight and price. Pro cameras are heavier and are considerably more expensive. They have a rugged build, designed for heavy duty performance. So the question is: Do you really have to invest in a pro camera? The answer largely depends on your type of photography and what you will use the images for. I will cover this part of the great camera debate in the next article. Stay tuned! Check out our upcoming Digital Camera workshops as we have classes for all different levels pf photography and editing.
Ted and the Omnilargess Team