Mirrorless Cameras | Popular Photography https://www.popphoto.com/category/mirrorless-cameras/ Founded in 1937, Popular Photography is a magazine dedicated to all things photographic. Thu, 31 Aug 2023 14:52:53 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.2 https://www.popphoto.com/uploads/2021/12/15/cropped-POPPHOTOFAVICON.png?auto=webp&width=32&height=32 Mirrorless Cameras | Popular Photography https://www.popphoto.com/category/mirrorless-cameras/ 32 32 The best Canon cameras for video in 2023 https://www.popphoto.com/gear-reviews/best-canon-cameras-for-video/ Thu, 31 Aug 2023 14:52:53 +0000 https://www.popphoto.com/?p=193879
four of the best Canon cameras for video sliced together
Abby Ferguson

Record the action with these Canon cameras.

The post The best Canon cameras for video in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

]]>
four of the best Canon cameras for video sliced together
Abby Ferguson

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall Canon EOS R5C mirrorless camera Canon EOS R5C
SEE IT

The R5C features a fan to prevent overheating and is capable of up to 8K video.

Best for pros Canon EOS C300 Mark III Canon EOS C300 Mark III
SEE IT

This pro-level camera features a Super 35mm sensor and is Netflix approved.

Best budget Cacnon EOS R100 budget Canon camera Canon EOS R100
SEE IT

It’s tiny and affordable yet still offers 4K 24p video.

Canon cameras for video were some of the first to adopt HD video, starting with the EOS 5D Mark II. It was the first DSLR to offer full-HD video recording capability and made it possible for photographers to dive into video without having to invest in an expensive cinema camera. Since then, Canon has made it a priority to release cameras that work exceptionally well for shooting video along with still photography. The company’s current lineup features a number of cameras aimed at a wide variety of video shooters. Keep reading to learn more about the best Canon cameras for video.  

How we chose the best Canon cameras for video

When selecting the best Canon cameras for video use, it was important to choose options that would appeal to a wide variety of video shooters: from professionals to content creators, vloggers, and enthusiasts looking to capture life’s everyday moments on something that isn’t their phone. We considered a range of budgets, features, and usability when selecting the cameras for this buying guide. We have hands-on experience with the majority of cameras that appear here, but also relied on editorial reviews and user feedback when making our selections. 

The best Canon cameras for video: Reviews & recommendations

Canon offers a huge array of cameras that shoot video for the creator at every level and every budget. No matter what your experience level, Canon likely has a product that will work for you. 

Best overall: Canon EOS R5C 

Canon

SEE IT

Specs

  • Resolution: 45 megapixels
  • Sensor size: Full-frame
  • Lens mount: Canon RF
  • Image stabilization: Digital only 
  • Memory card slots: Slot 1: CFexpress Type B Slot 2: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
  • Weight: 1.7 pounds
  • Dimensions: 5.6 x 4 x 4.4 inches

Pros

  • Shoots 8K video
  • Excellent autofocus
  • Built-in fan 
  • Includes waveforms

Cons

  • Short battery life
  • Only offers digital stabilization

You can think of the Canon EOS R5C as the video-centric version of the EOS R5. This 8K capable camera lacks image stabilization but features a built-in fan to prevent overheating while shooting. Canon built the camera around a 45-megapixel sensor and its DIGIC X image processor. It offers 15 stops of dynamic range, can record 10-bit 4K video at 120 fps, and is capable of shooting 45-megapixel stills. 

On top of all that, the Canon EOS R5C features a comfortable ergonomic build with fully customizable buttons. It’s a highly capable video camera that’s much smaller than a dedicated cinema camera and more budget-friendly. We do wish the battery life on this one was a bit longer, but this camera still checks a lot of boxes for filmmakers at many levels. 

Best for pros: Canon EOS C300 Mark III

Canon

SEE IT

Specs

  • Resolution: 8.85 megapixels
  • Sensor size: Super 35mm 
  • Lens mount: Canon EF
  • Image stabilization: Yes, electronic IS 
  • Memory card slots: Dual slot: CFexpress Type B and Single slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC
  • Weight: 3.86 pounds (body only)
  • Dimensions: 6 x 5.8 x 6.6 inches (without grip)

Pros

  • Excellent image quality
  • Cinema RAW light capabilities 
  • Intuitive menus 
  • Netflix streaming approved 

Cons

  • Expensive

Canon’s EOS C300 Mark III is a high-end cinema camera designed for use on film productions and commercial shoots. It features a super 35mm sensor and advanced color science for accurate reproduction of skin tones. It can shoot 4K at 120p, has Dual Pixel CMOS AF up to 120p, and supports 4-channel recording. 

The modular design of the C300 Mark III makes it easy to customize with accessories depending on a filmmaker’s individual needs. It certainly isn’t cheap, but for filmmakers working on commercial sets, documentary work, or professional film shoots, it’s one of the best Canon cameras for video on the market. 

Best mirrorless: Canon EOS R6 Mark II 

Abby Ferguson

SEE IT

Specs

  • Resolution: 24.2 megapixels
  • Sensor size: Full-frame
  • Lens mount: Canon RF
  • Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
  • Memory card slots: Dual slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
  • Weight: 1.3 pounds (body only)
  • Dimensions: 5.4 x 3.9 x 3.5 inches

Pros

  • 10-bit video 
  • False color display
  • Capable of 6K video with an external recorder
  • Dedicated video controls

Cons

  • Inconsistent AF performance with video
  • IBIS can lead to warp at edges of the frame

The EOS R6 Mark II is a fantastic hybrid camera for the creator who wants to shoot stills and video. That’s especially true because Canon decided to clearly separate the controls for each function. The R6 Mark II is capable of shooting 6K with an external recorder or 4K at 60p internally. And it includes advanced video features like false color display, C-Log, and HDR PQ modes. 

The image quality is excellent when shooting with the R6 Mark II, but there are some inconsistency issues when using AF while shooting video. Ultimately, the R6 Mark II is highly functional for a large variety of shooters with a price point that is nearly half of that of the R5 series. 

To read more about the R6 Mark II, check out our full review.

Best for vlogging: Canon EOS R10

Stan Horaczek

SEE IT

Specs

  • Resolution: 24.2 megapixels
  • Sensor size: APS-C 
  • Lens mount: Canon RF
  • Image stabilization: Digital (video only) 
  • Memory card slots: Single SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II) slot
  • Weight: 15.1 ounces
  • Dimensions: 4.8 x 3.5 x 3.3 inches

Pros

  • 10-bit HDR PQ video 
  • 4K 60p capabilities
  • Affordable
  • Out-of-camera HDR

Cons

  • Unreliable AF tracking in video mode
  • Rolling-shutter issues in 4K mode

Most vloggers want an uncomplicated, compact camera that will help them gather footage quickly without fiddling with too many settings or menus. That’s exactly where the EOS R10 excels. The camera uses the full sensor when recording UHD 4K 30p and can also shoot 4K 60p with a cropped region of the sensor. 

The fully articulating screen makes it an ideal option for doing a vlogging walk-and-talk or filming content in a home studio. It also features out-of-camera HDR, so you can plug it directly into an HDR TV or quickly upload it to YouTube. Unfortunately, you can’t record Log with this model, and its autofocus can be a bit unreliable with fast-moving subjects. Nevertheless, it’s a great choice for a content creator who is looking to capture footage that doesn’t require much post-processing work. 

To learn more about the Canon EOS R10, check out our full review.

Best budget: Canon EOS R100

Canon

SEE IT

Specs

  • Resolution: 24.1 megapixels
  • Sensor size: APS-C
  • Lens mount: Canon RF 
  • Image stabilization: None 
  • Memory card slots: Single SD/SDHC/SDXC slot
  • Weight: 12.6 ounces
  • Dimensions: 4.6 x 3.4 x 2.7 inches

Pros

  • Compact and affordable
  • 4K/24p video capabilities (cropped sensor)
  • Excellent image quality

Cons

  • No touchscreen 

Canon designed the EOS R100 to be an entry-level, affordable camera, and its features certainly reflect that. Although it has video features and is good for filming short clips, the low price point does come with a lower level of quality. It can shoot 4K 24p video using a cropped portion of its sensor or full-width 1080 60p. The R100 can shoot in slow motion, but only at 720 resolution. Features like Movie IS can smooth out camera movement, but once again, it comes with a crop. However, if you are looking for something simple and with a better lens than your phone, the R100 is a decent budget-friendly starting point for filming. 

What to consider when shopping for the best Canon cameras for video 

Sensor size

Having a nice big sensor is important when filming video. As a result, Full Frame and Super 35 are the most popular sizes found in cameras designed for shooting video. But how much of the sensor they are actually using is just as important. For example, a camera that can shoot 4K footage using the full width of a sensor will give you more leeway in the edit than one that is shooting 4K with a cropped area of the sensor. 

Stabilization

Shaky footage can take a lot away from your content. It can even be a significant deterrent for people trying to watch your videos, leading them to click away and watch something else instead. If you plan to record videos while hand-holding your camera and don’t have the budget for a gimbal, be sure to look for a Canon camera that offers effective image stabilization. And pairing your camera with a lens that also offers image stabilization will help you out even more.

Video resolution

4K capabilities have become the norm in the video world. Although it’s certainly nice to have a camera that can do that, it does mean you will need to stock up on fast memory cards and a speedy machine that can handle those massive files. Certain clients will demand 4K resolution footage, but in many scenarios, having 1080p footage will be plenty. Ultimately, the video resolution you need will depend on where your footage will be seen. 

Budget

The price of Canon cameras for video use is all over the map. A high-end Canon cinema camera can cost you up to $10K, while entry-level models can run between $600 and $1,000. More expensive doesn’t always mean best, though. Before you buy, consider your budget and what types of video content you’d like to be shooting. If you are primarily using your camera to capture footage that will be shown online, a mid-level machine should get you plenty of mileage. 

FAQs

Q: Does Canon have a 4K camera?

Canon sells a number of cameras that offer 4K capabilities, many of which are highlighted in this buying guide. The Canon EOS R6 Mark II, Canon EOS R5, Canon EOS R5C, Canon 1DX III, and the Canon 5D Mark IV are just a few of the cameras that can shoot 4K video. 

Q: Do I need to use autofocus when shooting videos?

Shooting in autofocus or manual focus is a personal choice that often comes down to the preference of the person behind the camera. Many new mirrorless cameras offer advanced autofocus settings that can automatically detect a subject and hold focus, making it easier to have in-focus footage. However, many filmers who grew up without this tech simply find that it’s better for them to focus manually rather than depending on the camera’s autofocus to do the job for them. You also may need to manually focus if you have a specific vision that isn’t in line with subject tracking. 

Q: Are DSLR cameras good for videography?

Although DSLRs certainly helped start the influx of online video—thanks in big part to Canon’s 5D Mark II—these days, many videographers prefer to use either an advanced mirrorless camera or a dedicated cinema camera for capturing video. However, if you happen to have an older DSLR lying around and want to try your hand at some video, it’s a great starting point for learning. 

Final thoughts on Canon cameras for video

Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all Canon camera for video since Canon offers a variety of solid options for filmers at all levels. Canon was one of the first camera companies to put serious video tech inside of their products, and it’s no surprise that they continue to create cameras that put the needs of video makers at the forefront. Choosing the right camera for you means evaluating your budget, what your needs are as a video creator and where you ultimately want to see yourself go. Thankfully, there are a lot of great choices in Canon’s lineup that can grow alongside your video career. 

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best Canon cameras for video in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]>
The best Sony cameras in 2023 https://www.popphoto.com/reviews/best-sony-camera/ Tue, 27 Jul 2021 17:01:36 +0000 https://www.popphoto.com/?p=151880
Four Sony cameras sliced together
Abby Ferguson

Choose the best Sony camera to match your shooting style.

The post The best Sony cameras in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

]]>
Four Sony cameras sliced together
Abby Ferguson

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall A hand holds the Sony A1 mirrorless camera Sony A1
SEE IT

Built for working professionals, this mega-camera can shoot 50-megapixel images at super-fast speeds. It’s ready for literally anything.

Best for upgrading to full-frame The Sony a7 IV professional mirrorless camera Sony A7 IV
SEE IT

Sony has been refining the A7 line for a decade now and this is a great starting point.

Best for advanced amateurs Sony alpha a6600 is the best Sony camera for advanced amateurs. Sony A6600
SEE IT

Built for advanced amateurs and enthusiasts, this is where you’ll find Sony’s fastest autofocus.

Sony cameras have come a long way in the last decade. The electronics giant moved from a line of compact cameras to being one of the most dominant manufacturers in the camera business. Its current lineup contains everything from beginner-friendly compacts to super-pro-level mirrorless cameras with industry-leading sensors. All those choices can make picking the best option a challenge. Luckily, Sony’s camera lineup has a logical progression. And as long as you know what you’re looking for, there’s likely a camera in the mix that will suit your needs. Here, we’ll run down some of the most important things to consider when shopping for the best Sony cameras. 

How we chose the best Sony cameras

The writers and editors at Pop Photo have decades of experience with just about every camera brand out there. We have hands-on experience with many of the cameras on this list, and I myself have used Sony cameras almost exclusively for the past five years. 

When making the selections in this buying guide, we first considered the full range of Sony’s offerings and the different types of photographers, videographers, and creators who use them. We aimed to choose options that would meet the needs of most people and situations. Image and video quality, autofocus abilities, battery life, usability, and price were all key factors in our decisions. 

The best Sony Cameras: Reviews & recommendations

Whether you are just getting started, taking your vlogging and content creation to the next level, or a pro looking for a new camera body, one of these options is sure to fit your needs.

Best overall: Sony A1

Stan Horaczek

SEE IT

Specs

  • Resolution: 50 megapixels
  • Sensor size: Full-frame
  • Lens mount: Sony E
  • Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
  • Memory card slots: Dual slot: CFexpress Type A / SD (UHS-II)
  • Weight: 1.6 pounds
  • Dimensions: 5.07 x 3.81 x 2.74 inches

Pros

  • Fast burst shooting is ideal for action
  • Produces superb high-resolution photos
  • Class-leading electronic shutter
  • Excellent autofocus

Cons

  • Expensive

This $6,500 beast is the true alpha in Sony’s Alpha lineup. Its full-frame 50-megapixel sensor can crank out full-res images at up to 30 fps. And that fast burst rate still takes advantage of full AF and AE capabilities and can continue for 155 compressed raw frames. That means you can take it into the studio and shoot high-res commercial work, then step out onto the sidelines at a football game and blast away at a super-high framerate to capture fast action. 

The a1 isn’t just for still shooting, either. It’s capable of high-quality 8K 30p video capture with the full width of the sensor. The footage is oversampled from 8.6K, resulting in highly-detailed content. Or, you can lower the quality to UHD 4K for 120 fps with a 10 percent crop. The camera also provides advanced color control, including S-Cinetone, S-Log2, and S-Log3 for 15 stops of dynamic range.

As we hope to see on such a high-performing camera, the autofocus system is stellar. The hybrid AF system covers 92 percent of the sensor and can function down to -6 EV. It offers Real-time Eye AF with a dedicated bird mode. Overall, the Sony a1 is not just the best Sony camera at the moment, it’s easily one of the best cameras you can buy right now, period. 

Best for upgrading to full-frame: Sony A7 IV

Abby Ferguson

SEE IT

Specs

  • Resolution: 33 megapixels
  • Sensor size: Full-frame
  • Lens mount: Sony E
  • Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
  • Memory card slots: Slot 1: CFexpress Type A / SD (UHS-II), Slot 2: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
  • Weight: 1.4 pounds
  • Dimensions: 5.2 x 3.8 x 3.1 inches

Pros

  • Well-rounded feature set 
  • Superb image and video quality
  • Excellent autofocus performance
  • Effective image stabilization

Cons

  • Only 6 fps burst shooting at the highest quality

While the A1 is overkill for most photographers, the A7 IV provides an excellent mix of features that should appeal to a very wide group of people. Sony updated the fourth iteration of the a7 line with a new 33-megapixel back-side illuminated sensor. And it improved the color science, with more accurate colors coming straight out of the camera.

From a video perspective, the a7 IV is capable of 4K 60p, which is oversampled from a 4.6K capture area for better detail. Or you can opt for 4K 30p with 7K oversampling. Added to this camera is focus breathing compensation, resulting in even smoother footage. And it’s fitted with Sony’s impressive autofocus, which includes AI-based subject recognition and tracking with real-time Eye AF.

This is a great entry point into full-frame mirrorless that will let you build on it for years to come, though it is somewhat pricey. If you would like to save a little money, the a7 III isn’t far behind the a7 IV in terms of performance and features and is $400 cheaper at the time of writing. 

Best compact camera: Sony RX100 VII

Sony

SEE IT

Specs

  • Resolution: 20.1 megapixels
  • Sensor size: One-inch
  • Lens mount: N/A
  • Image stabilization: Digital and optical in integrated lens
  • Memory card slots: Single slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC
  • Weight: 10.65 ounces
  • Dimensions: 4 x 2.29 x 1.69 inches

Pros

  • Very compact
  • Excellent autofocus
  • Quality integrated lens
  • Good image and video quality

Cons

  • Expensive for a compact camera
  • Camera body is slick

When it comes to true compact cameras, the RX100 VII is still probably the all-around best Sony camera you can get. Its one-inch sensor pairs with a 24-200mm f/2.8-4.5 equivalent Zeiss lens to produce image quality that smartphone cameras can’t touch. And the focal length range is highly versatile, making it an ideal choice for travel.  

The RX100 VII offers impressive autofocus tracking that works well for both stills and video. It’s capable of high-quality UHD 4K 30p video recording with effective stabilization. It produces quality jpegs with good colors and is capable of producing raw files should you want more editing freedom. And you can shoot bursts up to 20 fps, making it a worthwhile tool for documenting action. 

The three-inch rear screen tilts up so that you can use it for selfies or vlogging. Or, you can use the pop-up eye-level viewfinder if you don’t want to hold the camera out in front of you to shoot. If you can’t afford the most recent model, you can go back a few generations and get a still-great little camera for less money.

Best for advanced amateurs: Sony A6600

Sony

SEE IT

Sony’s flagship APS-C camera has a truly impressive spec sheet. It houses Sony’s familiar 24.2-megapixel sensor but promises the “world’s fastest” autofocus system. While your real-world mileage may vary on the claim, you will get excellent AF tracking as well as 5-axis image stabilization built into the body to combat the results of shaky hands. 

Though the camera produces excellent still photos, it’s also capable of UHD 4K 30p video. The 4K video uses full pixel readout and is oversampled from 6K, providing highly detailed results. And there is no recording limit, so you can capture long takes. 

If you can’t swing the A6600’s price tag, Sony also still sells some older versions that can still hang with the best of them. The A6400, for example, will cost you less than $900 on the current market, and it offers many of the same features you’ll find in the A6600. Or, if you are looking for something slightly more advanced than the A6600, the Sony announced A6700 this summer. It’s available for pre-order now, but on paper, it seems it will surpass the A6600, and we look forward to testing it in the near future. 

Best for aspiring content creators: Sony ZV-1 II

Sony

SEE IT

Sony’s original ZV-1 was an extremely popular vlogging camera, and the second iteration keeps that tradition going. The ZV-1 II still utilizes a 1-inch 20.1-megapixel sensor, but Sony upgraded it to a stacked design for faster readout times. It’s capable of 4K 30p video with digital stabilization. And it offers 5x slow or 60x quick motion in S&Q mode for more creative control. 

The other major change on the ZV-1 II is the wider lens. The camera now features an integrated 18-50mm (35mm equivalent) lens. That’s less range than the original, but it provides a wider angle, which is ideal for vlogging. And it utilizes Sony’s Hybrid AF system, resulting in fast and accurate autofocus with impressive tracking abilities. 

The ZV-1 II features a built-in ND filter for cutting down exposure by three stops, which allows you to get bokeh even when shooting in bright sun. And there are lots of built-in creative modes, so you can spend less time editing your content and more time shooting. It’s an ideal choice for those just getting started with vlogging or who don’t want to fuss with their content too much.

Things to consider before buying the best Sony cameras

Sony makes an expansive list of cameras covering many different categories. As a result, it can be hard to figure out what actually makes sense to buy for your needs. Below are some key things to look out for and think about when buying a new Sony camera. 

Camera type

Sony makes both mirrorless cameras with interchangeable lens systems and compacts with integrated lenses. Mirrorless cameras are great because they offer lots of options and features. The ability to change lenses to what fits a particular situation is also a plus, and you can typically choose from higher-quality glass as well. 

But if you’re never planning to switch lenses, why pay for the privilege? Modern compact cameras have really stepped up their performance in recent years to occupy the high-end space in which smartphones still can’t compete. For example, Sony’s RX100 IV offers many of the same features you’ll find in a mirrorless camera, including a 20.1-megapixel sensor and super-fast autofocus with 315 AF points covering 65 percent of the sensor. 

Sensor size

Within Sony’s interchangeable lens cameras, you’ll find two sensor sizes: Full-frame or crop sensors, otherwise known as APS-C. Each sensor size has its advantages and disadvantages. What is best for you is dependent on what you plan on shooting and how you will be using your camera. 

APS-C cameras are more affordable and are thus typically labeled as beginner-friendly cameras. Sony offers a nice range of APS-C cameras with truly advanced features, however, making them worthwhile even for pros. And there are options for still shooters and video-focused creators alike. 

While the full-frame sensor of the a1 can meet the needs of just about every type of photographer, even at the highest levels, some of us don’t have the need–or the budget–for that kind of purchase. You don’t have to hop into the full-frame series at the deep end, however. Sony’s original A7 line debuted back in 2013 as the first full-frame mirrorless camera to hit the market. It was a straight-down-the-middle body that offered solid performance across the board for hybrid shooters. Sony has continued that tradition with each A7 update.

Don’t neglect the specialty cameras

If you want to shoot hardcore pro video with Sony cameras, then the company has a whole line of them, including the FX3 and the FX6V. Those cameras, however, require a heavy-duty budget to go along with your production. Almost any of the Sony mirrorless cameras–and even the compacts–will shoot excellent video. But if you’re looking for something built specifically for video at a more affordable price point, you’ll want to check out Sony’s ZV lineup, which is the company’s vlogging line of cameras.

Get a camera you can grow into

If you’re planning to really grow your photographic skills, you’ll want a camera that can grow with you. Similarly, if you’re already an advanced shooter, you don’t want to buy a body that will hold you back with its lack of features. Looking across the Sony full-frame lineup, you’ll find a number of cameras that serve specific needs. 

The A7R IV boasts a massive 61-megapixel sensor with 15 stops of dynamic range, which is great for studio, portrait, and commercial shooters. On the other side of the coin, the A9 II shoots 24.2-megapixel photos but excels at sports with its advanced AF system and 20 fps capture speed. The $3,500 A7S III has an even lower megapixel count at just 12 mp. It excels at super low-light and video shooting. 

FAQs

Q: Which Sony camera is best?

Without more context than this, you can’t beat the Sony A1. It’s one of—if not the—best mirrorless cameras on the market at the moment. Super-fast 30 fps capture from a 50-megapixel sensor makes this beast the top of the heap. 

Q: Which is the best Sony DSLR camera?

Unfortunately, Sony recently stopped producing its A-series DSLR cameras. Now, the company’s focus lies squarely on the E-mount mirrorless cameras. You can still use some of those older A-mount lenses on mirrorless bodies if you have an adapter.

Q: What is the best Sony Cyber-Shot camera?

For all-around use, the Sony RX-100 VII takes the crown. Its mix of versatile zoom range and high image quality makes it great in just about every situation. If you want to get wild with it, though, I might recommend the RX1R II. It has a full-frame sensor and a fixed 35mm f/2 Zeiss lens. Truly high-end stuff in a small package.

A final word about finding the best Sony cameras

Sony has a ton of fantastic cameras to offer. They cover just about every specific need different photographers and videographers could ask for. While finding the best Sony camera for you may take some time, you’ll end up with a solid base on which you can build your gear kit over the years. 

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best Sony cameras in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]>
Last-minute Prime Day deals on Sony cameras and lenses https://www.popphoto.com/gear-reviews/prime-day-sony-camera-lens-deals-2023/ Mon, 10 Jul 2023 15:04:12 +0000 https://www.popphoto.com/?p=192879
A selection of Sony cameras and lenses against a blue background
Abby Ferguson

You can save on Sony cameras, lenses, flashes, microphones, and more this Prime Day.

The post Last-minute Prime Day deals on Sony cameras and lenses appeared first on Popular Photography.

]]>
A selection of Sony cameras and lenses against a blue background
Abby Ferguson

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Sony camera equipment doesn’t go on sale that often, especially with very significant price cuts. So when you do see big discounts, like some of the Sony camera and lens deals dropping early for Amazon Prime Day, you won’t want to miss it. A few still highly capable, previous-generation cameras are on sale, along with a good selection of lenses. Some of the items below are already showing low stock, so you won’t want to wait on these deals.

All of these Prime Day deals require an active Amazon Prime Membership. You can sign up here for a free 30-day trial.

Sony FE 24-70 mm F2.8 G Master Zoom Lens – $1,598.00 (was $2,191.64)

Sony

SEE IT

A quality 24-70mm lens is something that should be in every photographer’s kit. It is a do-it-all lens, covering both wide-angle and telephoto perspectives in a single lens. This particular 24-70mm is usually quite pricey, but you can get it for 27 percent off for the time being, which is impressive. It offers a fast and constant f/2.8 aperture for beautiful bokeh and excellent low-light performance and is extremely sharp, offering overall superb image quality.

Sony Alpha A6600 Mirrorless Camera $998.00 (was $1,398.00)

Sony

SEE IT

Sony released the a6600 back in 2019, but it is still a truly excellent and very popular camera. It is an APS-C camera, which results in a tiny form factor that’s ideal for travel and street photography. It utilizes Sony’s advanced autofocus system, has strong battery life, and offers beautiful image quality. We’ve never seen this camera priced this low, so you definitely don’t want to miss this deal if you’ve been thinking about picking up a compact body.

Even more Sony camera and lens Prime Day deals

Sony interchangeable lens cameras and camera kits

Sony fixed lens cameras

Sony zoom lenses

Sony prime lenses

Sony camera accessories

More Amazon Prime Day deals

The post Last-minute Prime Day deals on Sony cameras and lenses appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]>
Nikon Z8 mirrorless camera review: Smaller, faster, cheaper, better https://www.popphoto.com/gear-reviews/nikon-z8-mirrorless-camera-review/ Tue, 20 Jun 2023 13:54:49 +0000 https://www.popphoto.com/?p=192525
Nikon Z8 camera review main
The Nikon Z8 is a true powerhouse. Stan Horaczek

The Nikon Z8 offers Z9 performance in a smaller, cheaper body.

The post Nikon Z8 mirrorless camera review: Smaller, faster, cheaper, better appeared first on Popular Photography.

]]>
Nikon Z8 camera review main
The Nikon Z8 is a true powerhouse. Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

I’m hard-pressed to think of a photographic situation where the Nikon Z8 wouldn’t feel right at home. It’s super-fast sensor and fully electronic shutter can crank out full-resolution images at faster-than-video speeds for shooting action and sports. Its 45.7-megapixel sensor offers enough resolution even for large prints meant to hang in a gallery. And its standard-sized body makes it easy to handhold and lug around. For the Z8, Nikon essentially shrunk down its superb Z9 flagship, knocked $1,500 off the price, and told content creators to go shoot….whatever. This is a truly impressive camera–as long as you’re willing to put in the work to learn its intricacies. 

Specs

  • 45.7 effective megapixel stacked, full-frame CMOS sensor
  • No mechanical shutter
  • 5-axis in-body image stabilization
  • ISO range: 64 to 25,600 (Extended: 32 to 102,400)
  • 20 fps full-res raw, 30 fps full-res jpeg (unlimited), 60 fps at 19 megapixels, and 120 fps at 11 megapixels
  • Video recording up to 8K with several high-end 4K recording formats
  • Two memory card slots: CFexpress Type B / XQD and SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II), respectively
  • 3.2-inch, 4-axis tilting LCD touchscreen display
  • 3,690,000-dot viewfinder with 0.8x magnification
  • Weight: two pounds

Pros

  • Exceptionally fast in just about every way
  • Excellent overall image quality, even at high ISO
  • Very solid dynamic range
  • Tons of customization options
  • Most of the Z9 functionality in a smaller, cheaper camera
  • Comfortable to hold and operate
  • Solid viewfinder
  • Stacked sensor offers super-fast readout

Cons

  • Battery life is just OK
  • There’s a learning curve if you want to get the most out of it
  • AF is good, but still lags behind Canon and Sony in some aspects

Nikon Z8 design and build

This camera feels like a DSLR. If you were used to shooting with a Nikon D850, then the Z8 will absolutely feel like home when you pick it up. Despite the Z8’s massive power, it’s considerably smaller and lighter than both the Z9 and the D850 that came before it. That’s impressive. The grip is chunky, which is good because the camera is littered with buttons. It eschews a mode dial in typical Nikon fashion and instead relies on button clusters. If you’re already well-versed in Nikon layouts and button functions, the Z8 transition should be simple. If you’re coming from a much older camera or a different system completely, you’ll probably want to spend some time with the manual. 

This is a near-flagship camera for Nikon, so it’s predictably tough. The magnesium alloy body is sturdy and weather sealed, so it can withstand moisture, dust, minor impacts, and even temperatures down to 14 degrees F. Plus, without a mechanical shutter, it’s missing one of the parts that typically breaks or dies first on many other cameras. That’s a durability win. 

Handling

Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info: f/4 for 1/125th sec., ISO 360. This is a great demonstration of the practical dynamic range. The subjects are covered, and there are bright objects in the background, but everything stayed in the realm of reality. Stan Horaczek

I like to start with a camera set up just the way it is out of the box. The back of the camera sports 11 buttons, a dial, a joystick that presses like a button, a switch (for swapping between video and still mode), and a D-pad. Three more buttons sit next to the shutter button, and the left shoulder sports another four buttons. In short: It has a lot of buttons.

After a few weeks of shooting with the Nikon Z8, I found myself mostly satisfied with the stock button configuration in most shooting situations. I shoot one-handed a lot, and the layout isn’t overly friendly to that kind of shooting. Even though the Z9 is bigger and heavier, I found the integrated grip made it easier to balance the camera when shooting one-handed because it could rest against the bottom of my hand. That’s an edge case, though. In most shooting situations, it’s very clear that Nikon has spent a ton of time honing this layout. 

Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info: f/4 for 1/250th sec., ISO 1,000. The face detection AF makes scenes like these very simple to capture. Stan Horaczek

The joystick is easy to reach and very responsive. The front and rear dials provide a nice, sturdy click that’s difficult to activate accidentally. The small display on the top of the camera is also clear and easy to read, which is a nice touch. 

This feels like a pro camera because it is. But you can also mostly ignore all those buttons if you prefer and shoot in the most basic modes. You won’t be getting the most out of the camera, but you’ll get great images. If that’s your approach, however, something more basic will probably better suit your needs and save you some cash along the way. 

The lack of a mechanical shutter

Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info: f/4 for 1/1250th sec., ISO 100. This was shot in very contrasty evening light, but the shadows and highlights blend nicely. Stan Horaczek

While the mechanical shutter is slowly going the way of the mirror box found inside DSLRs, I do still miss the tactile response it gives when you take a photo. There are some instances with the Z8 where I wasn’t sure if I was taking photos. And even if I knew I was, I wasn’t sure how fast I was taking them. Admittedly, this is not a fault as much as something I really need to get used to. And while the Z8 felt totally natural in every respect by the end of my review period, the silent shutter still seems a little weird. 

That said, Nikon has released custom shutter sounds for the Z9, and you can enable a shutter sound on the Z8 to indicate a capture. This is a feature, not a bug, but it may take you a little while to wrap your head around it, especially if you’re coming from a DSLR like the D850, which slapped heartily with each frame.

Burst shooting

Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info: f/4 for 1/200th sec., ISO 100. This shot came up quickly, and I didn’t have time to change my settings to a faster shutter speed. I simply laid on the shutter button and picked the image out of the burst that had the most interesting action. Stan Horaczek

The stacked sensor inside the camera has computing hardware baked directly into it, which enables its somewhat ridiculous speed. It can capture 20 fps at full-res in raw format until the buffer is full. Then it slows down. If you’re shooting jpeg, you can get 30 fps until the card is full. Reduce the resolution down to 19 megapixels, and it will do 60 fps. Go all the way down to 11-megapixel jpegs, and it can churn out up to 120 fps. 

I tried all of these modes, and they really are impressive. I didn’t get out a stopwatch to get a super-specific count, but the Z8 is ultimately faster than the vast majority of people even need. You can’t really comprehend how fast a 120 fps burst rate is until you’re sitting there in Lightroom looking at an impossible number of pictures of your dog running across the yard. Each one is very slightly different than the one before it. The 30 fps mode is perhaps the most practical since many sports photographers shoot jpeg anyway for quick delivery and simple editing. The Z8 makes speedy promises and delivers on them in the real world. 

Image quality

Like the Z9 before it, the Z8 delivers impeccable image quality. I only had access to the Z 24-120mm f/4 lens during my testing period, which meant I spent some considerable time in the higher ISO settings. In most situations, I could get perfectly usable images at ISO 6400, especially after applying some noise-reduction software. The 45.7-megapixel sensor provides ample image data so the files can survive denoising without losing too much fine detail. 

Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info: f/8 for 1/200th sec., ISO 1,000. The sunset looked particularly epic due to wildfire smoke. This is shot across the Mohawk River. Stan Horaczek
Nikon Z8 sample image
This is a crop of the previous image viewed at 100 percent. That’s a wild amount of detail in a tricky shooting situation. Stan Horaczek

At higher ISOs and in particularly dark situations, images do start to look somewhat flat and lack contrast. That’s fairly standard, but it’s worth knowing so you can shoot for it. It’s easily fixed in the edit with the 14-bit raw files. 

The overall look is very similar to what the Z9 spit out, which shouldn’t come as much of a surprise considering how similar the hardware is. The files offer lots of latitude for pulling up shadows and bringing back seemingly blown skies. The camera really shines in contrasty situations if you expose for the highlights and bring up the shadows in post. The shadow areas in the raw files stand up well to tweaks in post. 

Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info f/4 for 1/320th sec., ISO 7,200. I ran this high-ISO image through Lightroom’s new Denoise function, and it came out astonishingly clean. Stan Horaczek

With 45.7-megapixels of resolution, the sensor also provides phenomenal detail. I shot an image across a lake that gave me a clear look at a sign that was too far away to read as clearly as it did in the picture. This sensor is truly amazing.

Autofocus performance

Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info: f/4 for 1/320th sec., ISO 1250. These people are doing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, not ballroom dancing in gym clothes. Stan Horaczek

The Nikon Z8 is no slouch when it comes to autofocus. In fact, it beats out the Z9 in a few small ways, like total speed and tracking ability. Still, it lags slightly behind Sony and Canon, the latter of which I consider the gold standard of AF in modern mirrorless cameras

The Z8 has all the fancy object-tracking modes you’d expect from a camera at this level. It can detect people, animals, birds, vehicles, and more. It focuses extremely quickly, and the tracking locks on and holds on most of the time. Even with some tweaks, though, the AF system would want to switch subjects on me. With a large group of runners at a track meet, for instance, I’d want to make sure I pay attention to which runner the camera is locked onto. Once I had a little experience under my belt, it was mostly a non-issue. The differences between Nikon and Canon have shrunk, but they still exist. 

Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info: f/4 for 1/80th sec., ISO 5600. My mostly black dog provides a real challenge for AF tracking. It did manage very solid shadow detail, though. Stan Horaczek

Once I got my AF process down with the Nikon (limited AF zone, tracking on, back-button activated), it was hard to miss a shot. The autofocus is snappy and accurate, with very solid tracking. Credit to Nikon for improving it.

Video features

I spent most of my review period evaluating the Z8’s photographic chops, but the video capabilities here are also truly impressive. It can capture up to 8K resolution at 30 fps without an external recorder. More importantly, it has a number of advanced 4K shooting modes. It can pull down 4K UHD footage in H.265 4:2:2 10-Bit at up to 100 fps without the use of an external recorder. That’s beastly.

It can also shoot 12-bit 8K raw and 4K UHD in ProRes 422 HQ 4:2:2 10-Bit up to 24 fps. Because the Z8 doesn’t have a built-in grip like the Z9, it’s much simpler to fit into a rig or other mirrorless-specific cinema gear. Plus, the Z8 has a secondary USB-C port in addition to its data port so it can charge while you work. That’s extremely handy for video shooters or photographers who spend a lot of time away from their regular charging setup. 

Nikon Z8 vs. Nikon Z9

If you’re trying to decide between the two, you’ll really have to consider the edge cases. The Z8 is more than $1,000 cheaper, smaller, and lighter. Plus, it has a generally improved AF system. The Z9 has a few advantages, perhaps the biggest of which is its form factor. The much larger Z9 battery provides much more juice. The Z8’s battery performance is OK, but it’s not outstanding. Plus, the integrated vertical controls are really nice, especially if you’re using large zoom lenses that balance much better against a bigger body. 

In reality, both cameras are absolute monsters. Plus, the Z9 now has a few extra tricks (including the awesome remote triggering system) that just arrived with its most recent firmware update

Conclusion

Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info: f/5.6 for 1/80th sec., ISO 220. Bright colors and lots of contrast with fine detail? What else could you want from a sample image? Stan Horaczek

If you’re a professional or advanced photographer who wants a camera that can handle literally any situation, then the Z8 is absolutely ready for the job. It’s built incredibly tough, offers ample customization, provides plenty of megapixels, and sports an AF system that’s capable of tracking super-fast subjects. It feels and performs like a piece of professional equipment. The Z9 was already great, and the Z8 is even better in many ways. That’s something we love to hear, especially when the new model is cheaper than what came before. 

More sample images from the Nikon Z8

Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info: f/8 for 1/320th sec., ISO 1,000. This is straight out of the camera, but the colors get very poppy without getting wacky with a little editing. Stan Horaczek
Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info: f/4 for 1/100th sec., ISO 2,000. This is very clean for an ISO 2,000 image shot in after-sunset light. Stan Horaczek
Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info: f/4 for 1/400th sec., ISO 100. This is an autofocus success. I thought the AF might jump to the guy in the hat with the beard, but it stayed locked onto the subject through his swing. I only took one shot here because I was in single-photo drive mode. Stan Horaczek
Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info: f/22 for 1/13th sec., ISO 100. I shot this handheld, and the vibration reduction system did a great job keeping it steady. Stan Horaczek
Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info: f/8 for 1/100th sec., ISO 140. This kind of scenario can be tricky for the AF system as it has a ton of faces and lots of details. The final product is sharp, though. Stan Horaczek
Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info: f/4 for 1/125th sec., ISO 180. This is a direct export of the raw file with just a small bit of exposure added. These flat files accept edits very nicely. Stan Horaczek
Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info: f/22 for 1/125th sec., ISO 1250. Here’s an example of the sensor’s ability to pull fine detail out of a complex scene. Stan Horaczek
Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info: f/8 for 1/40th sec., ISO 100. The subject stays very tame, and the red jacket (left) and orange shorts (right) still remain manageable. Stan Horaczek
Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info: f/5.6 for 1/320th sec., ISO 100. This was shot on a cloudy morning at the farmer’s market. The separation between the clear cup, the white tents, and the cloudy sky is still very well-defined despite subtle tonal differences. Stan Horaczek
Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info: f/4 for 1/320th sec., ISO 100. I don’t like to include flower pictures in sample galleries because I typically don’t find them that interesting. These, however, provide some challenging colors that the Z8 handles with aplomb. Stan Horaczek
Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info: f/4 for 1/200th sec., ISO 100. This is a pretty standard street shot, but look how big that dog is. Also, I guess it did a nice job with the subtle shadow details. Big dog! Stan Horaczek
Nikon Z8 sample image
Tech info: f/11 for 1/320th sec., ISO 160. I know birds on wires are cliche, but I like this one, and we’re probably near the end of the article by now, anyway. Stan Horaczek

The post Nikon Z8 mirrorless camera review: Smaller, faster, cheaper, better appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]>
The best mirrorless cameras of 2023 https://www.popphoto.com/story/reviews/best-mirrorless-camera/ Wed, 24 Feb 2021 14:59:00 +0000 https://www.popphoto.com/uncategorized/best-mirrorless-camera/
a selection of mirrorless cameras from Nikon, Sony, Canon, and Fujifilm
Abby Ferguson

Find the best mirrorless camera for your photo and video style.

The post The best mirrorless cameras of 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

]]>
a selection of mirrorless cameras from Nikon, Sony, Canon, and Fujifilm
Abby Ferguson

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best for pros Nikon Z8 full-frame mirrorless camera Nikon Z8
SEE IT

The Z8 offers impressive specs across the board for pros.

Best APS-C Mirrorless Cameras photo Fujifilm X-T5
SEE IT

It’s simply a fun and fantastic camera to shoot with.

Best low-light The Nikon Z 6II FX-Format Mirrorless Camera is the best mirrorless Nikon camera. Nikon Z6 II
SEE IT

NIkon’s Z6 II excels when the light gets dim.

If you have been paying attention to the camera market over the last decade, you’ve noticed mirrorless cameras overtaking DSLRs as the most dominant category in interchangeable-lens cameras. While Canon, Nikon, and Pentax still sell plenty of DSLRs, more than a half-dozen companies—including Canon, Fujifilm, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Sigma, and Sony—are fully committed to their mirrorless systems. The market has expanded so much that there are now mirrorless cameras for every type of shooter, from the video-focused to the photography purist. No matter what you are looking for, the best mirrorless camera will help you get the shot.

How we chose the best mirrorless cameras

We have been writing about and reviewing cameras for decades and have personally used most of the major cameras released in recent years. This list is a result of extensive hands-on testing, market research, user feedback, editorial reviews, and spec comparisons. While the mirrorless market has grown substantially in recent years, there are still only a handful of companies making the cameras that you really want to buy. We looked at the entire mirrorless camera landscape and chose the models that best fit the needs of different kinds of shooters. 

Best mirrorless cameras: Reviews & recommendations

The options for mirrorless cameras have expanded to include something for just about every situation you may find yourself in. Whether you are wanting a compact, budget-friendly vlogging camera or a professional-level, high-resolution beast, or something in between, there is a mirrorless camera that will work for you.

Best with in-body image stabilization (IBIS): Canon EOS R5

Canon

SEE IT

Specs

  • Resolution: 45 megapixels
  • Sensor size: Full-frame
  • Lens mount: Canon RF
  • Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
  • Memory card slots: Dual slot: CFexpress Type B and SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
  • Weight: 1.62 pounds
  • Dimensions: 5.43 x 3.84 x 3.46 inches

Pros 

  • High-resolution sensor
  • Articulated screen
  • Up to 8 stops of stabilization with some lenses
  • Advanced video features

Cons

  • Expensive

Although it’s a little pricey, the full-frame Canon EOS R5 delivers excellent stabilization. You’ll get up to 8 stops in combination with some Canon IS lenses. Other impressive parameters include speedy (and accurate) autofocus and tracking thanks to its Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system. It’s dust and water-resistant to withstand the rigors of outdoor photography and comes equipped with dual memory card slots, including a CFexpress. This is essentially the mirrorless version of Canon’s stalwart 5D DSLR line. As a result, it can handle just about anything a pro photographer could need it to do in a relatively compact body.
If you don’t need the 45-megapixel resolution and super-high-res video chops found in the R5, the Canon EOS R6 Mark II offers much of the same in terms of focusing and stabilization with a more reasonable 24.2-megapixel resolution and matching SD card memory slots.

Best for pros: Nikon Z8

Nikon

SEE IT

Specs

  • Resolution: 45.7 megapixels
  • Sensor size: Full-frame
  • Lens mount: Nikon Z
  • Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
  • Memory card slots: Dual slot: CFexpress Type B/XQD and SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
  • Weight: 2 pounds
  • Dimensions: 5.7 x 4.7 x 3.3 inches

Pros 

  • Fantastic image quality
  • Offers lots of on-body controls
  • Fast burst shooting
  • High-quality video

Cons

  • No mechanical shutter
  • A bit difficult to get right now

The Nikon Z8 is essentially the Z9 in a more compact and affordable package. It’s $1,300 less than the flagship Z9 yet features the same sensor, processor, and autofocus capabilities. And it weighs more than half a pound less than the Z9. Of course, that’s in part because the Z8 lacks a built-in vertical grip, but the more compact form factor makes it an ideal choice for videographers or those who prioritize weight in their setup. 

The Z8 is a true hybrid camera with impressive specs and features across the board. It’s capable of 8K 60p 12-bit raw recording internally in the N-RAW format. You can record at 8K 30p for roughly two hours continuously. And it offers 4K 120p for slow-motion footage. 

The 45.7-megapixel sensor results in excellent image quality for photos. And if you like a still from a video clip, you can grab 33MP stills from 8K footage or 11MP stills from 4K footage. The Z8’s autofocus is also superb, with accurate and fast subject detection and tracking. 

We’ll have a full review of the Z8 coming soon to provide even more insight. But, as a popular new release, the Z8 can be a bit hard to find right now, which is one of the main downsides. If you see it in stock somewhere, you’ll want to make the purchase as soon as possible if you are serious about picking one up.

Best for pros runner-up: Sony a1

Stan Horaczek

SEE IT

Specs

  • Resolution: 50.1 megapixels
  • Sensor size: Full-frame
  • Lens mount: Sony E
  • Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
  • Memory card slots: Dual slot: CFexpress Type A and SD (UHS-II)
  • Weight: 1.6 pounds
  • Dimensions: 5.07 x 3.81 x 2.74 inches

Pros 

  • High-resolution sensor for superb detail
  • Advanced and impressive autofocus
  • Fast burst shooting
  • Plenty of tactile controls

Cons

  • Expensive

The Sony a1 is a camera built for those who want serious performance from their camera. The specs are impressive across the board. It offers a 50.1-megapixel sensor with stacked back-illuminated design and integrated memory. That sensor allows for 15 stops of dynamic range and the ability to capture tons of detail from a scene. It also handles noise extremely well, so you can get away with higher ISOs.

One area that the a1 really shines is burst shooting. It’s capable of up to 30 full-sized raw frames per second with the electronic shutter. That’s faster than just about everything available at that quality. The autofocus is equally impressive. It’s extremely fast and accurate, and it can focus down to -4 EV, so you can shoot in dark situations and still use autofocus. 

The a1’s electronic sensor is able to read out at a whopping 1/260th second, which allows you to sync a flas at up to 1/200th second. And, with the mechanical shutter, you can sync flash up to 1/400th second without relying on a high-speed sync. It’s an ideal camera setup for studio photographers and sports photographers alike. And with the 8K 30p and 4K 120p video, it makes for an excellent tool for videographers or hybrid shooters as well.

If the burst shooting isn’t as important to you as resolution, the Sony a7R V offers an impressive 61 megapixels, resulting in truly stunning image quality even for the most serious pixel peepers. 

Best for low light photography: Nikon Z6 II

Amazon

SEE IT

Specs

  • Resolution: 24.5 megapixels
  • Sensor size: Full-frame
  • Lens mount: Nikon Z
  • Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
  • Memory card slots: Dual slot: CFexpress Type B / XQD and SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
  • Weight: 1.4 pounds
  • Dimensions: 5.3 x 4 x 2.7 inches

Pros

  • Superb image quality overall, but especially in low-light
  • Intuitive controls and menu systems
  • Compact
  • Exemplary metering system

Cons

  • 24-megapixels may feel a little low for some shooters

The well-rounded, full-frame Nikon Z6 II mirrorless camera is equipped with great still and video features. Its low light capabilities range from minimal image noise at high ISOs and, critically, excellent low light AF—down to -4.5EV, one-stop lower than its Z6 predecessor. That means it can focus in the moonlight—even when it’s less than a full moon. As a bonus, the Nikon Z6 II is equipped with a special low-light autofocus mode that takes its capabilities an additional two stops, providing a good balance between minimal levels of image noise and effective autofocus in very low light.

The Sony A7S is another solid option, especially if you shoot a lot of video or you don’t need a ton of megapixels. The 12-megapixel resolution seems paltry to many still photographers, but that low resolution comes with extremely clean high-ISO images.

Best for vlogging: Sony ZV-E1

Sony

SEE IT

Specs

  • Resolution: 12.9 megapixels
  • Sensor size: Full-frame
  • Lens mount: Sony E
  • Image stabilization: Digital, 5-Axis
  • Memory card slots: Single slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
  • Weight: 1.1 pounds
  • Dimensions: 4.8 x 2.8 x 2.1 inches

Pros 

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Excellent stabilization
  • Good in-camera audio
  • Superb autofocus abilities

Cons

  • Low resolution isn’t great for photography
  • Single SD card slot

The Sony ZV-E1 is a full-frame mirrorless camera tailored to serious vloggers and content creators. Unlike its smaller sibling—the ZV-1 II—the ZV-E1 is an interchangeable lens camera, allowing you to choose from the vast selection of Sony and third-party lenses available for E-mount. Despite the full-frame sensor, the camera is very compact and lightweight, weighing only slightly over a pound, making it easier to hold even if you are filming yourself. 

The ZV-E1 is capable of 4K 120p video or full HD up to 240p. The Cinematic Vlog setting makes it easy to create cinematic footage with a single touch, putting controls such as aspect ratio,  frame rate, look mode, mood, and AF modes on one screen. The 5-axis optical image stabilization is highly effective. And when you need even more stabilization, the dynamic active mode stabilization utilizes AI recognition and tracking to automatically crop footage to keep focus on the subject. 

As we’ve come to expect from Sony cameras, the ZV-E1’s autofocus abilities are very advanced. It offers Multiple Face Recognition to track multiple people in a single frame, and the Product Showcase Setting makes it easy to switch focus between a product and subject. The main downside to this camera is the 12.9-megapixel sensor. While the 12.9-megapixel sensor could be limiting in terms of still photos for some, for professional vloggers, this camera is the best choice at the moment.

If you are a vlogger that doesn’t want to fuss with lenses or spend so much on a camera, the ZV-1 II is the next best thing. It features a built-in 18-50mm equivalent lens with 4K 30p video and plenty of content creator-specific tools.

Best for vlogging runner-up: Sony a7C

Amazon

SEE IT

Specs

  • Resolution: 24.2 megapixels
  • Sensor size: Full-frame
  • Lens mount: Sony E
  • Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
  • Memory card slots: Single slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
  • Weight: 1.1 pounds
  • Dimensions: 4.9 x 2.8 x 2.4 inches

Pros 

  • Compact form factor fits in camera rigs
  • Flip-around screen makes for easy vlogging
  • Advanced autofocus tracking with nearly 700 AF points
  • 4K and 1080p footage at high bitrates

Cons

  • No viewfinder might be a downside for hybrid shooters
  • No 4K at 60 fps

Size and weight matter when you’re holding a camera pointed at yourself all day long, and Sony’s A7C is one of the most compact full-frame mirrorless cameras on the market. It has everything a vlogger needs, including 4K capture, a screen that flips forward so you can monitor your shot in real time, and a microphone jack for accessories. It also offers advanced autofocus that keeps you or your subject in focus without much fuss on your end. 

The small, rectangular form factor makes it easy to attach gimbals and other filmmaking equipment. That comes in handy when you’re trying to maximize your production value and have viewers slamming those like and subscribe buttons on Youtube. There isn’t an electronic viewfinder, which makes it a bit harder to use in bright sunlight, but video is rarely shot while looking through a viewfinder anyway. 

Best APS-C: Fujifilm X-T5

Stan Horaczek

SEE IT

Specs

  • Resolution: 40.2 megapixels
  • Sensor size: APS-C
  • Lens mount: Fujifilm X
  • Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
  • Memory card slots: Dual slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
  • Weight: 1.2 pounds
  • Dimensions: 5.1 x 3.6 x 2.5 inches

Pros 

  • High-resolution sensor results in lots of details
  • Capable of up to 20 fps
  • 6.2K maximum video resolution
  • Excellent feel to the controls

Cons

  • Viewfinder feels small compared to full-frame models

The Fujifilm X-T5 is a truly fantastic camera. In fact, one of our editors calls it one of the most enjoyable cameras he’s ever used. It offers lots of tactile controls, including an ISO dial and physical switch for shutter drive modes. These keep you from digging into menus nearly as often as other cameras. The body feels like a small SLR, including a physical dial for shutter speed, which makes the camera feel like an analog one. 

Fujifilm built the camera around a high-resolution 40.2-megapixel sensor that does a great job of grabbing lots of detail from a scene. It comes with Fujifilm’s excellent film simulation modes, which could save you time when it comes to editing. And the autofocus is responsive and accurate.

While the camera is primarily for still shooters, there are plenty of impressive features for video creators. For example, it can shoot up to 6.2K 30p video or oversampled 4K footage. And it offers plenty of video capture formats, including F-LOG2 and Apple ProRes Raw.

Best budget:  Canon EOS R100

Canon

SEE IT

Specs

  • Resolution: 24.1 megapixels
  • Sensor size: APS-C
  • Lens mount: Canon RF
  • Image stabilization: None
  • Memory card slots: Single slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC
  • Weight: 12.6 ounces
  • Dimensions: 4.6 x 3.4 x 2.7 inches

Pros

  • Extremely compact and lightweight
  • Affordable
  • Compatible with all RF lenses
  • 4K 24p video

Cons

  • Fixed rear display
  • No touchscreen functionality

The Canon EOS R100 is a new release that happens to be the most affordable camera in Canon’s R line yet. It’s also the smallest, weighing just 12.6 ounces with the battery and memory card. Despite the small size and affordable price, it has a lot to offer. For starters, the 24.1-megapixel sensor will provide image quality on par with the M50 Mark II. But you get the benefit of RF lenses, as well as EF lenses with an adapter. That opens up a lot of possibilities for glass.

The R100 is capable of cropped 4K 24p video or full HD at 60p. It utilizes Dual Pixel AF with 3975 autofocus points and supports subject detection and Eye Detection AF. And Eye Detection works even when the subject is further away for full body shots. Unfortunately, the rear screen is fixed, meaning it can’t be flipped around for selfies or vlogging, and it isn’t a touchscreen. But, for the price, the R100 is hard to beat for those wanting a casual yet capable camera. 

What to consider when shopping for the best mirrorless camera

Choosing the best mirrorless camera for you depends on your needs. Are you looking for a mirrorless camera for beginners or something more specialized? Buying something below or at your level may hinder your development as a photographer or videographer when you outgrow its features. However, buying a pricy pro body may clutter up your shooting experience with features you’ll never even use. We’ll take a look at some of the parameters that will help you make the best choice.

In-body image stabilization

Image stabilization, which is available in some cameras and lenses, goes by different acronyms and names across brands—VR (vibration reduction), OIS (optical image stabilization), and SteadyShot, to name a few. Image stabilization senses the movement of the camera while you’re taking the picture and makes adjustments—either in the camera or in the lens or both—in order to counteract that shake and prevent blurry photos. It can also help smooth out video when shooting handheld. 

Many mirrorless cameras offer IBIS (in-body image stabilization). One of the great things about IBIS is that, by default, every lens you use is image stabilized, which is like an instant upgrade to your current non-IS lenses. As a bonus, IBIS and IS lenses can often work together to deliver even greater levels of stabilization.

Image stabilization is measured in steps or exposure stops. Put simply, each step or stop of IS decreases the shutter speed needed to maintain a blur-free image. Obviously, the more stops, the better when you’re shopping for a mirrorless camera with IBIS. It’s important to realize, however, that some of those numbers reflect a combination of in-body stabilization and lens stabilization to get the maximum effect.

Low-light performance

Photographers often encounter low-light situations where the choices are either to boost the ISO and risk image noise, miss the shot, or use a flash. The latter isn’t always the best option, especially if you want to capture the scene’s ambiance, or flash is prohibited. Keep in mind that most mirrorless cameras do not have built-in flash anyhow; rather, they have a hot shoe to attach an external flash.

Flash aside, there are three basic elements of low-light photography to consider. First, full-frame cameras are typically better at low-light photography since their larger sensor size gathers more light. You also need to consider how well the camera keeps image noise at bay while maintaining good detail and sharpness and whether the camera’s autofocus can function well in low light. The latter is measured as minus “x” EV.

If you frequently shoot indoors—whether at parties or indoor sporting events—low light performance will be key to getting the shots you want. And even if you shoot outdoors, higher ISO settings can come in handy for capturing fast action like sports, which requires extremely short shutter speeds to freeze motion.

Video

While you can vlog or record video with pretty much any mirrorless camera, there are features that not only make vlogging easier but combine to deliver the best footage possible. Two key features in a mirrorless camera for video are an articulated LCD and a microphone jack. The former lets you flip the LCD out and away from the camera to view yourself as you’re filming. At the same time, an external microphone can be mounted on the camera’s hotshoe without blocking the LCD. In-body image stabilization is ideal since it steadies the shot regardless of what lens you use and can help steady video when handholding the camera.

In the end, vlogging doesn’t always require 4K resolution, but it’s always better to have the option if and when you need it.

FAQs

Q: Why are mirrorless cameras better than DSLRs?

There are a few ways in which mirrorless cameras outperform DSLRs. In general, mirrorless cameras and their lenses are generally smaller and lighter if only because they don’t need a mirror inside to flip up and down. Mirrorless cameras have electronic viewfinders that show the same information and image as the LCD, so, conveniently, there’s rarely a need to move your eye from the EVF to the LCD—including when reviewing images.

DSLRs also use dedicated autofocus sensors that exist outside of the imaging sensor. If the two sensors get out of alignment, the camera needs adjustment, or the photos will turn out blurry. Also, regarding autofocus, mirrorless cameras offer extremely accurate face and object tracking that DSLRs typically can’t match.

Q: What’s the best mirrorless camera?

The best mirrorless camera truly depends on an individual’s needs and priorities. The Nikon Z8 is one of the most impressive and well-rounded mirrorless cameras available right now, thanks to the high-resolution sensor, impressive video specs, and excellent autofocus. But the Z8 is more camera than many need. From a budget perspective, you can’t beat the Canon EOS R100, which offers some advanced features at a very affordable price.

Q: How do the different size sensors affect picture-taking on mirrorless cameras?

One of the main differences is how sensor size impacts a lens’s angle of view. A full-frame sensor delivers the same angle of view as it would on a 35mm film camera. An APS-C sensor “crops” the image by 1.5x or 1.6x (Canon). Attaching a 100mm lens, for instance, will look more like a 150mm lens on an APS-C camera. Micro Four Thirds sensors double the effective focal length, so a 100mm lens delivers a 200mm equivalent focal length. That can be both a positive and negative depending on your needs. If you want longer reach, the smaller APS-C sensors can offer it. If you want wider lenses, it’s easier to achieve on a full-frame body.

A final word on shopping for a mirrorless camera

Shopping for the best mirrorless camera is really a personal issue. It’s important to think about what kind of images or videos you want to capture and then find the features that make it possible—whether it’s low light, video for vlogging, or action shots. Don’t be fooled into thinking you need the latest and greatest to make the best decision. There are plenty of solid options at various price points, including budget models.

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best mirrorless cameras of 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]>
Get up to $500 extra toward Sony gear with your trade-in at Adorama https://www.popphoto.com/gear-reviews/sony-trade-up-sale-adorama/ Mon, 24 Apr 2023 20:51:01 +0000 https://www.popphoto.com/?p=191586
Sony a7 III with Sony 50mm f/1.4 GM lens
Abby Ferguson

You can save even if you don't have gear to trade in.

The post Get up to $500 extra toward Sony gear with your trade-in at Adorama appeared first on Popular Photography.

]]>
Sony a7 III with Sony 50mm f/1.4 GM lens
Abby Ferguson

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Upgrading your gear is always an exciting moment. But the higher price tag of that new gear is decidedly less exciting. And dealing with random Facebook Marketplace people when selling your old gear is never fun—no one wants to field requests offering $100 for a used Sony a7 III. Adorama is aiming to ease that pain with a Sony Trade-Up special right now. You can trade in any working full-frame Sony camera or lens and receive a bonus on top of the trade-in value of your gear. And, in addition to getting a little extra for getting rid of your used camera, Adorama is also running a sale on Sony gear. If you’ve been looking for a new Sony camera or lens, now is definitely a good time to do so.

Sony Trade-Up details

Trading in your gear to the likes of Adorama is a great way to avoid the potential mess of selling it on your own. And it doesn’t hurt that you can get extra cash towards your new gear during the Trade-Up event right now. The exact amount you get varies based on what you are selling, with a few different tiers available depending on your gear.

If you have a Sony Alpha 1, a7s III, or a9 II to trade in, you can get the full $500 on top of the trade-in value, while the Sony FX3 will get you an extra $350. If you have an a7R IV, a7 IV, or a7 IV with FE 28-70mm lens, you’ll get a $300 bonus. Finally, cameras like the a7 III, a7R III, or 7C and most of Sony’s lenses will earn you between $50 and $200. You can see the full list of cameras and lenses and the applicable bonus over at Adorama. The Sony Trade-Up deals run through June 2nd, so you have plenty of time to figure out what you want to send in.

Sony cameras and lenses on sale

On top of the trade-up deal, Adorama also has lots of Sony cameras and lenses discounted right now. Depending on what you are trading in and what you are looking to buy, you could potentially save up to $800, which is quite significant. The sales run through May 14th, so you have a little bit of time to decide which piece of gear you want to pick up.

Sony Alpha a7 III $1,698.00 + free battery (was $1,998.00)

Sony

SEE IT

The Sony a7 III is one generation behind the current model but is still very much worth purchasing. I’ve been shooting with one for three years now, and it’s a true workhorse of a camera. It offer fantastic video quality with excellent still photography results as well, making it a well-rounded hybrid option for those who need to do a little bit of everything. It’s $300 off at Adorama right now, and you also get a free battery to keep you shooting longer.

Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM Lens $1,698.00 (was $1,798.00)

Sony

SEE IT

If you want to up your portrait game, a fast 85mm prime lens is an easy (though not necessarily cheap) way to do so. The wide aperture of this Sony GM lens will allow you to get a very shallow depth of field to keep your subject the focus while you get buttery smooth bokeh behind them. And as a Gold Master lens, you’ll get plenty of sharpness in a durable, rugged lens body.

More Sony cameras on sale

More Sony lenses on sale

The post Get up to $500 extra toward Sony gear with your trade-in at Adorama appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]>
The best mirrorless cameras for beginners in 2023 https://www.popphoto.com/reviews/best-mirrorless-camera-for-beginners/ Mon, 26 Jul 2021 16:00:00 +0000 https://www.popphoto.com/?p=151770
Canon RP
Jeanette D. Moses

Want great options for mirrorless camera for beginners? We have some sweet options for you right here.

The post The best mirrorless cameras for beginners in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

]]>
Canon RP
Jeanette D. Moses

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best full-frame Best mirrorless camera for beginners: Canon RP Canon RP
SEE IT

The full-frame sensor inside is bigger than the rest on the list. That’s good news if you have a lot of old Canon lenses.

All around champ Best mirrorless camera for beginners: Fujifilm X-T200 Fujifilm X-T200
SEE IT

This compact body borrows some high-end features from cameras above it in the lineup.

Shake buster Best mirrorless camera for beginners: Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
SEE IT

The built-in 5-axis image stabilization system is very handy for avoiding shaky shots.

Choosing a good camera for beginners is more complicated than simply selecting the latest and greatest model in the line. Entry-level cameras typically offer beginner-specific features that help new shooters learn the nuances of advanced photography. The best mirrorless camera for beginners, however, also leaves room to grow as your skills evolve. 

Rather than sending you out into the complicated mirrorless digital camera world alone, we’ve put together this simple guide to help you choose your tool. The secret to success: Identify the most important features that you’ll need and emphasize them. You don’t want to end up paying a lot of extra cash for features you’ll rarely use. That could be lens money.

The best mirrorless cameras for beginners: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: Fujifilm XT-200

Fujifilm

SEE IT

Our expert’s pick for the best mirrorless camera for beginners overall is the Fujifilm X-T200. This DSLR camera embodies a classic SLR shape with an eye-level finder and a grip on the right-hand side. Inside, you’ll find Fujifilm’s renowned 24-megapixel APS-C sensor, which handles color differently than other digital sensors. That makes it uniquely capable of capturing pleasant-looking images with no editing required. It even emulates famous Fujifilm film stocks. The 3.5-inch vari-angle screen punches above its weight at this price and the camera gives you tactile controls with knobs and buttons that make for super-quick navigation once you get the hang of it. 

Best full-frame: Canon RP

Canon

SEE IT

This affordable Canon mirrorless full-frame camera for beginners offers a very nice 26.2-megapixel resolution for just under $1,000 retail. It shoots 2160p video and employs Canon’s facial tracking focusing system. The body looks and feels a lot like a DSLR so it will be an easy transition if you’re making the switch. It will also work excellently with Canon’s huge back catalog of EF lenses if you get the simple adapter to go with it.

Best for bloggers: Sony A6400

Sony

SEE IT

This isn’t the most recent addition to the Sony A6X00 line, but you can find it for a solid deal including a lens and it will give you lots of room to grow into it. The sensor employs Sony’s 4D focusing system, which is meticulous when it comes to keeping faces in focus, even when you’re moving around. The screen flips up to face you so it doesn’t stick awkwardly out to the side of the camera. Plus, it shoots beautiful 4K footage of your lovely mug.

Best small: Nikon Z50

Nikon

SEE IT

This isn’t the smallest mirrorless camera on the market, but the Nikon Z50 is smart about the space it uses. The whole thing weighs less than 14 ounces, which is a pittance compared to some DSLRs. Despite its small size, it still offers a selection of tactile controls and a chunky handgrip to go with its 20.9-megapixel sensor and advanced AF system.

Best for image stabilization: Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Olympus

SEE IT

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a tiny little camera with some impressive specs. Its Micro Four Thirds sensor moves in five different directions to try and counteract the movement of your hands as you press the shutter—it’s the best mirrorless camera for beginners looking for image stabilization. It promises up to 4.5 stops of shake correction, which is up there with the best of them. Despite its small size, you also get a solid collection of tactile controls including a mode dial and control knobs.

Choosing the best mirrorless cameras for beginners

It can be hard to understand exactly what the phrase “mirrorless camera” means, so we’ll run through the basics here quickly. If you’re already schooled on the nuances of the DSLR vs. mirrorless camera debate, you can probably skip straight down to the recommendations. 

For the uninitiated, mirrorless cameras get their identity from something they lack: a mirror. DSLRs (and their film-based SLR predecessors) rely on mirrors inside the camera body to reflect light coming in through the lens up to the focusing sensor and through the optical viewfinder. DSLRs dominated the advanced digital camera market for years before advanced CMOS image sensor tech changed the game. 

Mirrorless cameras simply funnel light through the lens directly onto the imaging sensor. That sensor pumps out a live feed of what it sees through to an electronic viewfinder or the screen on the back of the camera. Attached lens cameras worked like this for years before interchangeable-lens mirrorless cameras came along. 

Why are mirrorless cameras desirable?

Without the mirror inside the body, mirrorless cameras can keep the lens much closer to the sensor, which typically reduces the overall size of the camera itself. 

Because mirrorless cameras rely on their main imaging sensor for focusing, they’re also less likely to need adjustments than DSLRs. That sensor-based focusing also allows the camera to perform more advanced focusing features like precise image tracking and facial recognition. 

Some beginners also prefer mirrorless cameras because the image they see in the viewfinder looks very close to what the final result will be. With a DSLR, you see a simple reflection, but the camera settings may leave you with a shot that’s blown out or too dark. Mirrorless cameras reduce that chance. In fact, they will allow you to see, in real-time, how changing your settings will affect your overall picture. That’s great for learning purposes.

What’s not so good about mirrorless cameras?

DSLR’s advantages over mirrorless cameras have waned over the years. Some shooters still prefer the zero-lag experience of looking through an optical viewfinder. 

DSLRs also typically natively accept older lenses. So, if you’re upgrading from a Canon EF or Nikon N system, your lenses will probably still work with a new DSLR. You’ll have to use an adapter if you want to put them onto a mirrorless camera

Don’t give up on features you’ll want later

It’s easy to get lost in camera spec sheets when you’re out there shopping. The best mirrorless camera for beginners, however, isn’t always the most advanced model on the block. Ideally, you’ll choose something that’s easy to navigate and won’t drown you in buttons, dials, and endless menu screens. Some advanced Canon cameras, for instance, have more than five menu screens dedicated just to changing focus settings. That’s great for a working pro who knows just what they want. But, for a beginner, it can get overwhelming quickly.

As you hone into your personal style, you’ll likely figure out exactly what camera you want when you upgrade. To get started, though, you want something with a well-rounded feature set that you can grow into without getting discouraged. 

If you aspire to professional work, it also can’t hurt to get something capable so you can use it as a backup body even after you’ve upgraded. Buying into a system can get really expensive so you’ll want to choose wisely at the start. 

Moving up to a full-frame mirrorless camera

When photographers talk about “full-frame” cameras, they’re typically referring to those that have a sensor the size of a single image shot on 35mm film. With a sensor that size, your lenses work exactly as you’d expect them to. When you use a smaller sensor, however, the smaller chip can only capture part of the image circle so your final image looks cropped. It can make it difficult to get truly wide-angle views or achieve the same kind of buttery blurry backgrounds when shooting on fast lenses. 

Many pros rely on full-frame mirrorless cameras but don’t let anyone tell you that they’re absolutely necessary. There are some truly wonderful and capable APS-C options out there (some of which are on this list). The best mirrorless camera for beginners depends more on features than pure imaging power.

For aspiring vloggers

If you’re shooting video on your own, there are a few things you should consider. First and foremost, you want something light and compact. If you’re going to be holding a camera at arm’s length with the full weight of a Gorillapod weighing you down, you don’t need a bulky camera adding to the load. 

You’ll also want to make sure that you have a solid screen. Look for a screen that flips forward, but maintains a sturdy connection to the body without sticking out too far. Moving screens are good. Screens that stick out and get cracked off in a subway door are not. Trust me. 

You’ll also, of course, want to make sure that the camera captures top-quality video. People these days don’t smash those link and subscribe buttons for blurry, grainy footage.

Looking for the best mirrorless camera for beginners with smaller hands?

DSLRs have big mirror boxes inside of their bodies taking a lot of space. Mirrorless cameras don’t need all of that. As a result, the bodies can be smaller. That’s not always the case. Large sensors, wide lens mounts, and lots of electronics can clutter up some mirrorless cameras until they bloat to the size of their DSLR pals.

You want to go small with your camera, but make sure it still includes the features you want and feels comfortable in your hand. If a camera is too small, your hand can actually cramp trying to hold onto it (trust me on this one, too). As you move up to higher-quality lenses, they also tend to increase in size and include more heavy glass. In that case, you want something sturdy to counterbalance the weight of the lens. It’s literally all about balance.

Keep it steady with image stabilization

You can’t change the laws of physics. And those laws say that too much camera shake will result in blurry images. Luckily, modern cameras have advanced tech inside that can prevent those ruined pictures. Some cameras rely on lenses with built-in vibration reduction. They work well, but those lenses typically demand higher prices than non-stabilized glass. 

Some cameras, however, offer internal image stabilization systems that actually require the sensor to move around inside the body. You’ll often hear these systems rated by a number of stops. Those measurements have a specific meaning, but they’re also meant to represent absolute best-case scenarios that don’t translate into the real world. Just know that a larger number is typically better there.

FAQs

Q: Do professional photographers use mirrorless cameras?

This is an easy one: Yes! Mirrorless cameras have usurped DSLRs in pretty much every arena at this point. With advanced autofocus tracking, awesome image quality, and ever-growing lens options, the arguments against mirrorless are few and far between. Even pro sports photographers have started switching to mirrorless, which is a huge deal.

Q: What are the advantages and disadvantages of a mirrorless camera

If you like an optical viewfinder with zero lag, there’s still nothing quite like a DSLR. You’ll also find that you get much better battery life out of a DSLR since it’s not using quite so many screens. 

When it comes to advantages, though, there are plenty. The autofocus tracking is far beyond what you’ll find in a DSLR and the real-time image previews in the viewfinder can be a great learning tool.

Q: Is Nikon or Canon better?

This question is decades old and it’s not very relevant anymore. If you’re jumping into mirrorless and you already have some Nikon or Canon lenses in your collection, just stick to your brand. But, you also shouldn’t limit yourself to those brands. Fujifilm and Sony have been killing the mirrorless game for years now and it would be criminal to ignore them.

A last word about the best mirrorless cameras for beginners 

Don’t be afraid to take the leap into mirrorless cameras. Now is the time to do it. The market is saturated with the best mirrorless camera for beginners that will help you learn and then let you shine when your skills are honed. Even if you can’t afford something new, there are some great older options out there on the secondary market. The Sony A7 II? Still awesome. Whatever you get, be sure to get out there and shoot until you’re sick of it. You probably won’t get sick of it, though.

The post The best mirrorless cameras for beginners in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]>
Early hands-on with the Canon EOS R8: A compact hybrid camera for beginners https://www.popphoto.com/gear-reviews/canono-eos-r8-review/ Wed, 08 Feb 2023 13:57:39 +0000 https://www.popphoto.com/?p=190384
Canon EOS R8 mirrorless camera
The new R8 is a well-rounded beginner-friendly camera. Abby Ferguson

The R8 is a well-rounded camera that features advanced tech at a reasonably budget-friendly price.

The post Early hands-on with the Canon EOS R8: A compact hybrid camera for beginners appeared first on Popular Photography.

]]>
Canon EOS R8 mirrorless camera
The new R8 is a well-rounded beginner-friendly camera. Abby Ferguson

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Canon’s beginner- and enthusiast-friendly range of mirrorless cameras just got a bit more crowded with the announcement of the EOS R8. But despite its entry-level status, the full-frame R8 borrows technology from some of its bigger siblings, such as the R6 Mark II. It gets plenty of advanced technology, including uncropped 4K video and advanced autofocus. 

PopPhoto recently had the chance to test a retail-ready model on a press trip to Charleston, South Carolina. We were also able to use the new RF24-50mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM lens, which will be the kit lens available with the R8. We’ll be working on a longer review when we get more time with the set, but here are some of our thoughts from two full days of shooting with the R8.

Abby Ferguson

SEE IT

What is the EOS R8?

Priced at $1,499 (body only), the R8 sits right in between the EOS RP and the EOS R in Canon’s entry-level lineup. And it’s the same price as the R7, which is an APS-C camera. It features the same exact sensor as the more expensive R6 Mark II, which Canon newly designed for that camera. That means that the benefits of the R6 Mark II sensor trickle down to this relatively affordable body. It’s worth pointing out that it isn’t a stacked or backside-illuminated (BSI) sensor, however.

As is the trend, the R8 also gets to take advantage of the autofocus advances of Canon’s higher-end models for both still photos and video applications. For example, you’ll get Canon’s impressive Dual Pixel CMOS AF for excellent autofocus during video. And the new autofocus features released in the R6 Mark II carry over to the R8, such as Detect Only AF, to prevent the focus from shifting around when your subject leaves the frame. It’s no slouch when it comes to video recording either, with uncropped 4K60p recording, which is oversampled from 6K. 

Canon EOS R8 camera
The R8 is very small, even in my small hands. Abby Ferguson

R8 handling & design

The R8 doesn’t depart much from Canon’s typical body design. If you’ve shot with a Canon camera before, it’ll have a very familiar feel. The hand grip is nice and deep, making it easier to hold, even for longer periods. And yet, the camera is small. It only weighs one pound, almost half a pound less than the RP. Without a lens attached, it feels silly lightweight. You won’t mind keeping this in a bag or even around your neck when traveling, provided you also stick with a compact lens.

The R8 does away with the mechanical shutter, a first in the R line. Instead, it utilizes an electronic first curtain shutter and an electronic shutter. These result in six frames per second (fps) and up to 40 fps, respectively. There is no in-body stabilization, so if that’s important to you, you’ll either want a lens with stabilization or a different camera. The R8 does offer a self-cleaning sensor, which is useful for keeping dust spots out of your images.

Back of the Canon EOS R8
The R8 has a similar body design to the R6 Mark II, but Canon removed the joystick from the back of the camera. Abby Ferguson

The primary thing I disliked about the body of the R8 is that Canon removed the joystick from the back of the camera. Instead of using the joystick to change focus points, it all must be done on the touchscreen. That’s fine in theory, but there are limitations. For example, we were photographing in some light rain at one point, and some drops fell on the screen. It was then impossible for me to change my focus point without first wiping the water off. It also resulted in taking the camera away from my eye to look at the screen and tap a different focus point. That meant I had to recompose a lot more than I would have liked. Normally I would be able to use my thumb on the joystick to change the focus point without removing my eye from the viewfinder, which is a much better experience.

The autofocus picked up these birds in flight

Tech info: Canon EOS R8, RF24-50mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM, f/6.3, 1/2500 sec., ISO 160. This was an unexpected shot, and I had to tap in the sky to help the camera. But then the R8 was able to find and focus on these birds as they flew away. Abby Ferguson

Canon R8 autofocus

Canon has truly upped its game when it comes to autofocus, offering outstanding performance across its lineup. Many of the advanced autofocus features found in the company’s professional-grade cameras have trickled down to its entry-level options. That has resulted in fantastic value, even when they don’t perform quite as well. And sure enough, that is the case with the R8.

The R8 is fitted with Canon’s AI autofocus. It can automatically detect subjects, including horses and other animals, humans, aircraft, and more. The camera can also automatically find eyes. You can even specify if you want it to lock on and track the right or left eye. Canon also added a new “Tap to select subject” mode. This essentially acts as a replacement way to change subjects on the touchscreen since there is no joystick.

These features are great in theory, but they must work in the real world. Overall, I found the autofocus on the R8 to be extremely fast, accurate, and responsive. It did an impressive job of honing in on what I wanted the subject to be, with no input from me whatsoever. It took away most of the autofocus heavy lifting. That meant I wasn’t fiddling with settings nearly as much as I’ve had to with other cameras in the past. 

Two men weave baskets, showing the autofocus abilities of the Canon R8
Tech info: Canon EOS R8, RF50mm f/1.8 STM, f/3.5, 1/1000 sec., ISO 160. The camera will default to focusing on the subject that is closest to you. Abby Ferguson

However, the R8’s autofocus was not without issues. It was sometimes almost too responsive, shifting between perceived subjects too frequently before I was happy with the composition. And I found it had trouble finding eyes except when the subject was looking almost directly at me. The autofocus also struggled more in general when I was shooting in portrait orientation.

Canon EOS R8 image quality

I have only looked at jpeg files thus far since none of our preferred editing software can open raw files from these new bodies. A deeper look at image quality will come down the line. But overall, I was quite impressed with the image quality. I almost entirely photographed with the RF24-50mm F4.5-6.3, which is a low-budget kit lens. Even still, the images showed a good amount of detail. 

A white flower in a garden helps to show the dynamic range of the R8
Tech info: Canon EOS R8, RF24-50mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM, f/6.3, 1/800 sec., ISO 800. Exposure +1.55, highlights -30. Though this image wasn’t vastly underexposed, I did need to brighten it some and had no issues doing so with the jpeg file. Abby Ferguson

I was also impressed with the dynamic range of the jpeg files. I was able to bump exposure and shadows quite substantially without seeing extreme noise, even at higher ISOs such as 8,000. As is usually the case, shadows were much easier to bring back than highlights. But I was able to recover the detail on slightly blown-out highlights just fine.

Noise handling, in general, is excellent with the R8. Though there is some slight loss of detail, the image below was taken at ISO 25,600. It still looks sharp and mostly free from noise. I wouldn’t shy away from using a photo at an ISO this high from this camera when properly exposed. 

Spanish moss blocks much of the light, requiring a high ISO.
Tech info: Canon EOS R8, RF24-50mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM, f/6.3, 1/1250 sec., ISO 25600. Even at a high ISO, noise is very minimal. Abby Ferguson

Canon seems to be loving the 24.2-megapixel format lately, as two of the company’s releases from last year—the R6 Mark II and R10—feature the same size sensor. It is a little bit surprising, especially given that the only $999 EOS RP utilizes a slightly larger 26.2-megapixel sensor. At least in the case of the R8, Canon says that the image quality will vastly surpass the RP and R (which comes in at 30.3 megapixels). I have not shot with either of those cameras myself, but I would have no qualms using the R8 for some of my work despite the modest megapixel count based on what I’ve seen so far.

Shooting experience

Even for someone who doesn’t shoot Canon cameras frequently, the EOS R8 is simple and easy to use. You can take time to dive into menus and fine-tune settings, but you don’t have to in order to get excellent results from the camera. The menus stick to Canon’s traditionally logical and straightforward organization, and it comes set to what most people need straight out of the box. 

The burst shooting isn’t anything to sneeze at with 40 fps from the electronic shutter. I wasn’t photographing any action that required rapid bursts, so I didn’t really get to test this on the trip. Hopefully, we will be able to do so in the future. I did take some smaller bursts of the rain splashing into the ponds and was plenty happy with how fast it snapped away. It was fast enough to provide me with options to choose from to get the timing just right.

Ports on the EOS R8
The R8 has plenty of ports to support video shooters. Abby Ferguson

Video features

Given that we only had two days to work with two different cameras (and two lenses), I focused entirely on still photography during the press trip. However, video is a highlight of this camera, and it boasts some impressive specs and features as a result. 

Despite the entry-level status, the R8 is capable of 4K60p uncropped video that is oversampled from 6K. It can also handle 120p if the quality is lowered to full HD. It’s capable of two hours of continuous recording, provided you have the battery life and memory card space. You will be limited to 30 minutes at normal room temp when shooting 4K60p due to overheating issues. But at 4K30p, that limit is nonexistent. You’ll also get access to 10-bit Canon log for better dynamic range when editing video files. 

The autofocus system for video is just as full-featured as for stills, relying on Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF. You’ll be able to use subject detection, eye detection, tracking, and more, and it should allow you to easily and successfully keep subjects sharp. 

The R8 versus R7

You may have been surprised to see the $1,499 price tag for the EOS R8 body, considering the EOS R7 with its APS-C sensor is the exact same price. So, how do you choose if your budget is $1,500 for a camera? 

There are a few key differences between these that could sway your decision one way or the other. The first, and perhaps most obvious, is the sensor size. As mentioned, the R8 is a full-frame camera, while the R7 is a crop sensor. Full-frame cameras are typically better for low-light shooting, provide better depth of field control, and open up the availability of wide-angle lenses. They also give you more leeway when cropping images.

On the flip side, crop sensors are useful for those who primarily want to shoot with telephoto lenses, as they provide more reach given the same focal length compared to a full-frame camera. So, for example, an 100mm lens on the R7 will be the equivalent of 150mm. That has the potential to save you quite a bit of money on expensive telephoto lenses.

Beyond sensor size, the R7 features must more rugged weatherproofing, making it the better choice for adventure or sports photographers. Unfortunately, the R8 has only modest weathersealing. It was sprinkling during one of our shoots, and I had no issues with the camera getting a little wet. However, I wouldn’t want to be caught in much heavier rain than that because of the lack of weathersealing. 

If you’re familiar with Canon’s older DSLR lineup, this is like comparing the original full-frame 6D to the APS-C 7D. The latter was built for high-speed action shooting while the former emphasized overall image quality under more controlled circumstances.

Who should buy the EOS R8?

The EOS R8 sits in an interesting spot in Canon’s R line. Slotting in right between the RP and R, though priced the same as the R7, the company’s entry-level segment is quite a crowded scene right now. But, the R8 hits a sweet spot of affordable full-frame with plenty of advanced features to keep you happy for some time. Its 4K60p video, 40fps bursts, advanced autofocus, and excellent dynamic range make it an appealing choice.

The mix of features for stills and video make the R8 a true hybrid camera. Canon designed it for casual content creators, though it provides plenty of room to grow into for those who aspire to bigger things. It’s also ideal for serious enthusiasts who want excellent quality from their cameras without spending a fortune. And the compact size makes it ideal for those who travel and seek the benefits of a full-frame camera without a giant form factor. 

The R8 is available for $1,499 for the body only. You can also purchase it as a kit with Canon’s new RF24-50mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM lens for $1,699.00.

A southern plantation in the rain, taken with the R8
Canon EOS R8, RF24-50mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM, f/4.5, 1/200 sec., ISO 250 Abby Ferguson
Image of a unique shop taken with the R8
Tech info: Canon EOS R8, RF24-50mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM, f/6.3, 1/1000 sec., ISO 5000. Abby Ferguson
Portrait of a woman taken with the EOS R8
Tech info: Canon EOS R8, RF50mm f/1.8 STM, f/1.8, 1/1250 sec., ISO 400. Abby Ferguson
Portrait of a woman taken with the EOS R8
Tech info: Canon EOS R8, RF85mm f/2 MACRO IS STM, f/3.2, 1/1000 sec., ISO 250 Abby Ferguson
Portrait of a man taken with the EOS R8
Tech info: Canon EOS R8, RF35mm f/1.8 MACRO IS STM, f/1.8, 1/320 sec., ISO 250 Abby Ferguson
Portrait of a couple taken with the EOS R8
Tech info: Canon EOS R8, RF100mm f/2.8 L MACRO IS USM, f/2.8, 1/60 sec., ISO 250 Abby Ferguson
Portrait of a duck taken with the EOS R8
Tech info: Canon EOS R8, RF24-50mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM, f/6.3, 1/800 sec., ISO 800 Abby Ferguson

The post Early hands-on with the Canon EOS R8: A compact hybrid camera for beginners appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]>
Early review of the Canon EOS R50: Compact and approachable https://www.popphoto.com/gear-reviews/canono-eos-r50-review/ Wed, 08 Feb 2023 04:01:00 +0000 https://www.popphoto.com/?p=190361
Canon R50 in a hand
The new R50 is tiny yet surprisingly capable. Abby Ferguson

The R50 is a true beginner camera with smartphone-features and paired down controls.

The post Early review of the Canon EOS R50: Compact and approachable appeared first on Popular Photography.

]]>
Canon R50 in a hand
The new R50 is tiny yet surprisingly capable. Abby Ferguson

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Canon recently released a slew of gear ideal for beginners and casual photographers, including the new EOS R50. This camera sits at the entry of the R line and just above the enthusiast-oriented M series. It is currently one of the most entry-level cameras available from the company. It’s shockingly lightweight, almost feeling like a toy camera. And yet, it’s packed full of advanced features like uncropped 4K video and subject detection autofocus, making it more than capable for various situations.

Canon recently brought PopPhoto out to South Carolina for an opportunity to use the R50 and other new gear. We’ll be working on a longer review down the line when we have more time to spend with the camera. But here are our thoughts after two days of shooting around Charleston, South Carolina.

Front view of the EOS R50
Abby Ferguson

What is the Canon EOS R50?

Priced at $679.99 for the body only, the R50 sits just above the hugely popular entry-level M50 Mark II. Both cameras feature an APS-C sensor, with the R50 getting a smidge more megapixels at 24.2. As expected for a camera of this price point, the sensor does not utilize the latest stacked or backside illuminated (BSI) technology. 

It’s worth pointing out that this camera falls in Canon’s R line and thus uses the RF mount, as opposed to the EF-M mount of the M line of cameras. Canon established the EF-M mount for its first APS-C mirrorless cameras. The RF mount was initially only for full-frame mirrorless cameras. The company is now moving towards a one-mount system, though, with both full-frame and APS-C mirrorless cameras utilizing the RF mount. That makes it much easier to swap lenses between Canon’s mirrorless bodies should someone decide to upgrade or have multiple cameras. 

Despite the low price and entry-level status, Canon fitted the R50 with some surprisingly advanced autofocus features. It is capable of whole-area tracking and subject detection, including people, animals, and vehicles. It can also automatically detect eyes for sharp portraits. We’ve traditionally only seen these features in more advanced models, so getting them in a camera of this level is exciting. 

Canon specifically said that it optimized the R50 for fully automatic shooting. As part of that, it included new automatic modes to make results even better when leaving controls up to the camera. These include Creative Assist, Creative Bracketing, and Advanced A+, which provide different levels of assistance and file processing. All three are meant to make the shooting experience more like using your smartphone.

Canon EOS R50 in a hand
The R50 looks tiny, even in my small hands. Abby Ferguson

Canon EOS R50 design & handling

The first thing I noticed with the R50 is how tiny and lightweight it is. Without a lens, the camera feels almost comically light. It weighs just 13.2 ounces and measures only 4.58 x 3.37 x 2.71 inches. That’s roughly the same dimensions, though slightly lighter than the M50 Mark II. It also weighs two ounces less than the R10. Despite the small size, it still has a decent handgrip. It is a bit shallow, which is to be expected, so people with bigger hands may want a wrist strap or something else to help carry it when walking about. 

One tiny feature that bugged me is that the door to the battery and memory card slot doesn’t click shut on its own; you have to slide over the lock. The R8 that I was testing at the same time would lock shut when pressed in all the way. It’s interesting to me that Canon went with two different designs.

Back of the EOS R50
The back of the R50 features a flip-out touchscreen, fewer controls, and no joystick. Abby Ferguson

The design of the R50 is a somewhat simplified version of even slightly more advanced cameras from Canon. The mode dial is on the right side in the same place as the aperture dial of most cameras. Though I mostly shot in automatic with this camera, when I was shooting manually, I frequently rotated the mode dial when trying to adjust the aperture. If you aren’t used to anything else, it probably wouldn’t be an issue, but having a way to lock that dial into place would be nice. 

Like the R8, there is no joystick on the R50, meaning you’ll need to rely on the touchscreen for everything. There is a dedicated record button for video, but no video switch like the one found on the R8. 

Two birds nested in a tree
Tech info: Canon EOS R50, RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM, f/8.0, 1/1000 sec., ISO 1600. The crop sensor lends itself to telephoto lenses thanks to the extra reach it provides. Abby Ferguson

Canon EOS R50 image quality

The camera is capable of shooting raw files, but since none of our typical raw processing programs can handle the files yet, I’ve just evaluated the jpeg files thus far. We’ll take a closer look at raw files down the line, but most people using this camera will likely be shooting jpeg files anyway. And for the most part, I was pretty impressed with the image quality from the R50’s jpegs. 

For the entry-level status and low price, it produces nicely detailed and sharp images. It’s not a high-resolution show-stopper, but that’s not what it’s supposed to be. There’s some slight softness when you zoom in, but you could get away with printing these files somewhat large without any significant issues. It definitely shows more noise than a full-frame camera, but I wouldn’t shy away from shooting as high as ISO 5000 with the R50 in most situations. 

Canon EOS R50 shooting experience

The R50 is an easy camera to use. Canon intends this camera to be a step up from smartphone use, and the reliance on the touchscreen along with some of the shooting modes makes it feel remarkably similar to that experience. 

Canon significantly simplified the menus of the R50 with much fewer settings and options than most of its cameras. As a result, it’s not an overwhelming experience to get started with it, which is a big selling point. It’s easy to simply turn the camera on and start shooting and still get good results. 

Bird image taken with the R50
Tech info: Canon EOS R50, RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM, f/7.1, 1/640 sec., ISO 1600. The camera was able to find and successfully focus on this bird, despite some branches in between us. Abby Ferguson

The autofocus isn’t quite as responsive as Canon’s more expensive models. But for what this camera is, it was quite excellent. In almost every situation, it found my subject and tracked them even as I moved the camera for different compositions. There were a few times it struggled to find the faces of animals, especially those that were further away or not looking right at the camera. It still did surprisingly well at getting subjects in focus in most situations.

Canon EOS R50 automatic modes

As mentioned, I primarily used the automatic modes while using the R50. The default automatic mode is like you’d expect from any camera. However, where things get interesting is the Creative Bracketing and Advanced A+ modes. 

Creative Bracketing takes three shots with every shutter press, resulting in images with different exposure levels and white balance. I was not overly thrilled with the results from this, as the color temperatures were significantly off from what I would ever want in my photos, personally. I can’t quite see when this setting would be useful. This is a software feature, however. Canon can tweak it with firmware updates down the road, so it could improve in real-time.

Tech info: EOS R50, RF-S18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM, f/6.3, 1/250 sec., ISO 160. This image was taken using the Advanced A+ mode. The camera balanced the exposure and straightened the lines for me.
Tech info: Canon EOS R50, RF-S18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM, f/6.3, 1/250 sec., ISO 160. This image was taken using the Advanced A+ mode. The camera balanced the exposure and mostly straightened the lines for me. Abby Ferguson

The Advanced A+ mode is the setting that most acts like your smartphone. If the camera detects a problematic scene, such as backlighting or a high-contrast scene, it takes many pictures at once and merges them together to create one evenly exposed and already processed file. Canon didn’t specify exactly what the camera is doing during all this, but the images that I tested look like the camera is even applying some perspective correction and straightening, which is interesting to see.

The downside to Advanced A+ is the busy message that pops up after you take a shot. It can linger for a handful of seconds, which doesn’t sound like much. But if you want to snap away while documenting something on your vacation, it could cause issues. You’ve probably experienced something similar if you’ve used in-camera HDR or multiple exposure mode in other Canon cameras. It also doesn’t give any hint as to what the camera is doing. Smartphones don’t give a busy message after taking a photo, so to someone transitioning from that, it could feel like the camera is really slow. I also noticed some ghosting issues in images that had items moved by the wind, so this mode really should just be used with still subjects. That’s true of most modes that require merging multiple shots.

The photos from Advanced A+ weren’t groundbreakingly different from the normal automatic mode. The automatic straightening is nice, especially for those who don’t plan to do any sort of editing, but otherwise, they aren’t orders of magnitude better than standard automatic. I didn’t encounter too many challenging lighting situations, such as dramatic backlighting, but those may be the only real time Advanced A+ makes sense.

Video features

I only had two days to test two cameras, so I focused on still shooting for the duration of the press trip. We’ll be testing video features down the line, but for now, it’s worth pointing out what the camera is capable of. 

The R50 can shoot uncropped 4K, a first for an entry-level camera. 4K30p footage is oversampled from 6K, so it should result in really clear footage. It also provides 60p at full HD. There is also a new movie mode for closeup detection, which is ideal for showcasing products, and there is direct USB live streaming. 

The video autofocus features have trickled down from the R6 Mark II. It utilizes Dual Pixel CMOS AF and can track faces, animals, and vehicles. And it provides access to the Subject Only detection so that the focus doesn’t shift dramatically if your subject leaves the frame or walks behind something. 

The R50 versus the R10

The closest comparison in Canon’s lineup for the new R50 is the R10. They do reflect different price points ($679.99 versus $979, respectively). And Canon also intended them for somewhat different audiences. But they have very similar video features, so content creators or anyone wanting to record video may have a difficult time deciding between the two.

Put simply, the R50 is for those who want to use a camera like a smartphone but would like the added benefits that come with interchangeable lenses. The R10, on the other hand, is ideal for those who want to use a camera like a dedicated camera. The R10 is a camera for the growing amateur, while the R50 is more so for a true casual amateur. It’s not necessarily meant to be a camera for aspiring photographers. 

The R10 provides faster burst rates (up to 23 fps) and shooting speeds. It also features a self-cleaning sensor, which implies that users will frequently swap out lenses, exposing the sensor to debris. The R50 is only capable of up to 15 fps and does not have a self-cleaning sensor.

Who should buy the Canon EOS R50?

As already mentioned, the R50 is a true entry-level option. It is essentially a replacement for a smartphone, offering some functionality that will feel familiar if that’s what you are used to using. While it does allow for fully manual shooting and can take raw photos, it isn’t necessarily for someone who wants to grow into the camera and focus on developing their skills.  

The compact size and easy-to-use controls make this an ideal camera for young families or casual photographers. It’s perfect for getting those family snapshots or documenting a vacation. As an interchangeable lens system, the R50 provides a bit more flexibility than a phone but without the need to go all in on learning photography.

The R50 is available for $679.00 for the body only, or as a kit with Canon’s RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM lens for $799.00. It’s also available in white.

Charleston, South Carolina water scene
Tech info: Canon EOS R50, RF-S18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM, f/6.3, 1/250 sec., ISO 160. This was taken on the basic automatic mode, which nicely handled the lighting conditions. Abby Ferguson
a woven flower in Charleston, South Carolina
Tech info: Canon EOS R50, RF-S18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM, f/4.5, 1/2000 sec., ISO 500. The R50 renders detail quite nicely. Abby Ferguson
A cobblestone street in Charleston, South Carolina
Tech info: Canon EOS R50, RF-S18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM, f/8.0, 1/250 sec., ISO 100. The unedited jpeg files from the R50 have nice colors straight from the camera, meaning no editing is necessary. Abby Ferguson
One of the many churches in Charleston, South Carolina
Tech info: Canon EOS R50, RF-S18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM, f/9.0, 1/320 sec., ISO 100. This image was taken using the Creative Bracketing mode, which provided much warmer, more saturated colors than standard automatic mode. Abby Ferguson
Tiny yellow daffodils flowers
Tech info: Canon EOS R50, RF-S18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM, f/6.3, 1/160 sec., ISO 160. The R50 works well work a range of subjects, even in full automatic. Abby Ferguson

The post Early review of the Canon EOS R50: Compact and approachable appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]>
The best Olympus cameras in 2023 https://www.popphoto.com/reviews/best-olympus-cameras/ Thu, 16 Dec 2021 20:43:00 +0000 https://www.popphoto.com/?p=157793
The best olympus cameras
Olympus

Regardless of your experience level (or budget), there’s an Olympus camera that meets your needs. In this round-up, we help you find the camera that’s best for you.

The post The best Olympus cameras in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

]]>
The best olympus cameras
Olympus

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best for professionals Olympus OM-E-M1X is the best Olympus camera. Olympus OM- E-M1X
SEE IT

The full-sized body balances big lenses nicely.

Best for videos Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is the best Olympus camera. Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
SEE IT

It offers many of the same features as the flagship camera.

Best for traveling Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is the best Olympus camera. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
SEE IT

It may be small, but it’s no slouch on the spec sheet.

Olympus has a long history in the photo industry, producing a wide range of cameras since 1936: medium format, rangefinder and 35mm film cameras, including the unique Pen half-frame 35mm camera. (The latter was the late fashion photographer Bill Cunningham’s first camera.) The company moved into digital in 2003 with the E-1 DSLR built around a 5-megapixel Four-Thirds sensor and then transitioned into mirrorless using Micro Four Thirds (MFT) sensors. 

In the early days of digital, Olympus was innovative and developed new features before any other manufacturer. For example, the E-1 was the first digital camera to offer live view (albeit a cruder version that today’s cameras). The company also created a mechanism to shake dust off off sensors, to name just a couple of features that were on the leading edge. That experience prepared Olympus to bring some notable technology to its present day cameras so you have plenty of options to choose from.

Now, the company has sold off its digital camera division, but many of its most popular lines will continue on under the OM Systems name. In the meantime, here are the best Olympus cameras for any type of shooting.

How we picked the best Olympus cameras

The writers and editors at PopPhoto have collective decades of experience and have shot with every camera system under the sun. This list comes from a mixture of personal experience and community-based research. It also pulls from in-depth spec comparisons based on technical features. 

The category-specific recommendations take into account the wants and needs of different kinds of photographers, but many of these bodies can work across genres.

The best Olympus cameras: Reviews and recommendations

Best for professionals: Olympus OM- E-M1X

OLYMPUS

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: It handles like a pro DSLR and can churn out up to 18 fps with the electronic shutter mode making it our choice for the best Olympus professional camera. 

Specs: 

  • Megapixels: 20.4
  • Sensor size: Micro Four Thirds
  • FPS: 18 (electronic shutter)

Pros:

  • Grip provides more room for batteries
  • Super-fast image capture
  • 5-axis image stabilization
  • Extreme weatherproofing

Cons:

  • Bigger than other M43 bodies

Capturing photographs of athletes in action, dancers, birds and other fast moving subjects requires a camera with speedy response. The continuous number of frames per second that a camera can shoot is one key specification. At, say, five frames per second (fps) you may be able to freeze the motion of relatively slow action like a baseball player at bat or a ballerina moving leisurely from one position to the next but a bird in flight or a hockey player skating across the ice at breakneck speed will easily elude a slower fps rate. But at accelerated continuous shooting speeds, your odds of capturing great shot of peak action is vastly improved.

But high speed capture doesn’t mean much without continuous autofocus that’s fast (and accurate) enough to keep up with a camera’s burst rate. Keep in mind that at extreme shooting speeds, the camera may lock focus and exposure on the first shot rather than making continuous adjustments throughout the burst. Newer and higher end cameras sometimes provide special options to fine-tune how AF works when shooting different scenarios. 

Whether you’re photographing birds in your backyard, athletes on the soccer field or race cars zipping around the track, the Olympus OM-D E-M1X keeps pace with up to 10fps shooting speed (18fps with the electronic shutter). Tweak autofocus sensitivity and choose the subject, such as cars or aircraft, for even better tracking. The camera is a bit large and pricey but handles action shooting very well.

Best for beginners: Olympus PEN E-PL10

OLYMPUS

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: A classically designed body wraps around modern imaging tech to create a stylish, capable camera. 

Specs:

  • Megapixels: 16.1
  • Sensor size: Micro Four Thirds
  • 4K video at 30 fps

Pros:

  • Very attractive
  • Weighs well under a pound
  • Pop-up flash

Cons: 

  • No eye-level viewfinder
  • Relatively low megapixel count

Before everyone had a cell phone, small, point-and-shoots were the defacto entry level cameras. That category of digital camera has pretty much gone the way of the dinosaur. And that’s not all bad news because now even entry-level cameras offer features—like in-body image stabilization—that you’d never find on a point-and-shoot. At the same time, these more sophisticated models are snapshot easy to use. With one-touch shooting modes to match most picture-taking situations, entry level cameras can do all the work to make great photos.

At the same time, extra features, these cameras provide more room to grow than the early point-and-shoot models. That also makes them more capable than the best camera phones, especially under less than ideal shooting conditions. Of course you won’t want to give up selfies or posting on social media, so look for a flip LCD and Wi-Fi connectivity.

With its flip down selfie touchscreen and Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity, this petite camera offers all the benefits of the camera phone in your pocket and a whole lot more. Although there’s no viewfinder, the best beginner Olympus camera, the PEN E-PL10 offers in-body image stabilization to help prevent blurry images when shooting in low light. And you’ll get 4K video, too. 

Best for videos: Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

OLYMPUS

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: With 4K video capture and a 5-axis image stabilization system that works during movie capture, this is the most well-rounded option for video shooters.

Specs

  • Megapixels: 20.1
  • Sensor size: Micro Four Thirds
  • 4K video up to 30 fps

Pros: 

  • Burly weatherproofing
  • Small and light
  • Lots of physical buttons for control
  • Solid eye-level electronic viewfinder

Cons:

  • Can feel cramped due to its size
  • Just OK in super low-light

All camera manufacturers have upped their video features over the past few years, with most offering an option to shoot 4K. Not everyone needs the super-resolution of 4K. 

In addition to resolution settings, look for a variety of fps, although you’re not likely to find as many fps options for 4K as for full HD, HD and SD. But it’s always good to have a choice of 30p, 24p and 60p. If you want to get creative, a slow motion feature is always fun.

Other specifications to consider include in-body image stabilization to keep your footage steady while you’re on the go. And having a microphone jack is key to getting the best sound. A headphone jack is a bonus but generally only found on high-end models. 

In addition to 4K video, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is the best Olympus camera for video because it’s equipped with IBIS (in-body image stabilization) to keep your footage smooth and steady. The camera has a mic jack so pick up an external microphone to ensure good audio. And, if you’re up to post-processing color grading, this camera has a flat profile so you can apply your preferred look and aesthetic.

Best for traveling: Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

OLYMPUS

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Despite weighing just under a pound and sporting a super-small form factor, this full-featured mirrorless camera can do pretty much anything.

Specs

  • Megapixels:
  • Sensor size: Micro Four Thirds
  • Weight: 14.5 ounces

Pros

  • Very small and light
  • Solid weatherproofing
  • 5-axis stabilization

Cons

  • Can feel cramped for people with big hands
  • Feels ridiculously small when attached to big lenses

When you spend your hard-earned cash on a vacation, you want to be sure you come back with great images. Even when your outing doesn’t stray far from home, you’ll want to capture some of the sights you’ve visited for the day.

Naturally, size matters. You’ll likely be doing a lot of walking, so look for a smallish camera body and a lens that doesn’t add much to the size/weight of the rig but still gives you the focal length flexibility you’ll need. Although accessory flashes are available for mirrorless cameras,  having a built-in flash is preferable so it won’t add to the builk, weight or cost of your setup.

Weighing less than a pound (without a lens), this camera won’t weigh you down during your travel explorations. A built-in flash, 5-axis image stabilization and a tiltable LCD enable creative shooting angles. 

Because it’s so small and weighs under a pound, you can attach a compact lens to it and have a walk-around camera that will fit in a purse or, if you’re feeling fun, a fanny pack making it our pick for the best Olympus travel camera.

Best tough: Olympus Tough TG-6

OLYMPUS

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: You can literally take this 8x-zooming tough camera diving to a depth of 50 feet and capture 12-megapixel photos and 4K video.

Specs: 

  • Megapixels: 12
  • Waterproof down to 50 feet
  • 8x zoom

Pros:

  • Fully waterproof with no case needed
  • 8x zoom built-in
  • Built in instruments like a compass and GPS for recording data about photos

Cons:

  • Small sensor
  • Relatively slow lens when zooming

The compact camera market has all but disappeared thanks to smartphones. But, the waterproof models have stuck around because they can go places your iPhone can’t. Olympus has been making its line of Tough cameras for more than a decade. The TG-6 is the best Olympus tough camera because it’s fully waterproof down to 50 feet and it also protects against dust getting into the delicate electronics. 

It doesn’t just survive underwater, the TG-6 thrives there. It offers several underwater-specific shooting modes designed to overcome common challenges that come with shooting while submerged. For instance, it can remove some of the gnarly blue cast that can show up while diving. It can shoot 4K movies or lower the resolution to catch HD footage in slow motion. It’s great for really capturing your friends’ bad decisions so you can play them back later. 

What to consider when shopping for the best Olympus cameras

Like any digital camera, selecting the best Olympus camera model depends on your photographic interests, intentions, and skill level. If you plan to shoot sports or birds, you’ll need an Olympus camera that provides high speed capture with equally adept autofocus. Want to keep things simple and uncomplicated? Check out one of Olympus’ beginner cameras. Need to take pictures around (or in) the pool or at the beach? There’s an underwater camera for you, too.

Ruggedization

Despite their relatively small size, high-end Olympus cameras like the OM-D E-M1-series offer some of the best ruggedization and weather proofing around. Just know that the pro models really amp up the protection while the more consumer-oriented models don’t go quite as hard. If you’re planning to take your camera body up into the mountains or out into gnarly weather conditions, it’s worth paying extra for the burlier models.

Understanding the crop factor

One of the specifications to keep in mind when choosing the best Olympus digital camera is that the company’s mirrorless cameras pack Micro Four Thirds sensors, which create a 2x crop factor on lenses. That’s great news for photographers who want or need the extra reach from their lenses. It also translates to using shorter, lighter lenses for telephoto photography. For example, a 100mm-400mm lens delivers the same field of view as a 200mm-800 lens. And given Olympus digital cameras’ excellent in-body 5-axis image stabilization (IBIS) on some of their cameras, shooting telephoto and low light (slow shutter speed) images is not a problem.

At the same time, keep the 2x crop factor in mind when choosing a wide angle lens for landscapes or astrophotography. 

The Olympus MZuiko Digital ED 7-14mm f/2.8 PRO lens ($1,349) is a good choice and delivers a 14mm-28mm 35mm-equivalent field of view. Sigma and Panasonic offer MFT lenses as well, so you have options other than the Olympus branded optics.

FAQs

Q: Do professionals use Olympus cameras?

Yes, professionals use Olympus cameras. In fact, there are a number of Pro’s that are dedicated Olympus users including portrait and wedding photographers, wildlife and landscape specialists, as well as those who focus on other genres.

Q: What to look for when buying an Olympus camera?

Like any other camera shopping search, you should concentrate on the features and functions that best serve the type of photography that most interests you whether it’s sports, fine art, etc. Beyond that, take a look at some of Olympus’ special features like Live Composite (for night sky shooting and lightpainting).

Q: Do Olympus mirrorless cameras take better pictures?

Olympus mirrorless cameras don’t necessarily take better (or worse) pictures than other cameras. But Olympus offers some great features like 5-axis image stabilization, Live Composite and a host of creative filters in most of its models. Yeah, we often hear people say they like a photo we’ve taken and then credit the camera for the image. Keep in mind is merely a tool; the talent behind a great picture is you, the photographer.

Final thoughts on the best Olympus cameras

With a wide variety of cameras, at a range of price points, Olympus has made it easy to find a model with the features and specifications you need to make great pictures. From speedy burst modes for wildlife and bird photography to excellent in-body image stabilization for low light/slow shutter speed shots and even a rugged camera that works under even the toughest of conditions, we’re sure there’s a model for you.

The post The best Olympus cameras in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

]]>