How to choose a camera for high quality photos? How to choose a good digital camera.

In 2018, many models of cameras appeared on the market, in connection with this, competition between giant manufacturers has noticeably intensified, and the answer to the question is now ambiguous

Many models of cameras have appeared on the market, in connection with this, competition between giant manufacturers has noticeably intensified, and the answer to the question - what is the best camera for an amateur in 2018, is now ambiguous. In order not to be inferior to other brands, leading companies are constantly increasing the technical parameters of their brainchildren and improving them. You can see more and more impressive sets of numbers and letters in the description of the characteristics, but for an inexperienced user, the acquisition of such a camera often turns into a lottery.

It would seem that the choice is huge, but how not to get lost among this variety and choose an option worthy of attention? Let's consider further.

Features of choice: what to look for

The most rational way out of the situation will be to use the knowledge of people who already have practical experience. The article will consider the best representatives market, while using the competent opinions of expert practitioners.

Minimum parameters

For a good modern camera, a number of minimum characteristics have been created:

• Resolution - >= 10 MP;
• Matrix - >= 2/3'';
• ISO setting - >= 100;
• Focus - 24 * 85;
• Zoom more than 3x.

Advice!Of course, the above indicators play only a relative role: 20 megapixels in the case of a small matrix will lead to a worse result than 10 megapixels with a large matrix. Depending on the indicator of sensitivity to light, the image quality of the image will depend on how skillful the master uses the device.

How to start buying a camera

Buying a conventional device

The first thing you should pay attention to is the purpose of acquiring and using a camera. The intended purpose may be different, and this must be taken into account, since a universal model (for everything and at once) does not actually exist.

Advice! To treat yourself and friends to a photo session during a picnic from time to time, it is not necessary to bring an expensive professional-level mirror device with you, just take an ordinary soap dish or a high-quality smartphone with a good camera.

Professional cameras

If there are goals and objectives of a professional nature, then the requirements for equipment are slightly higher and depend on the genre in which the shooting is carried out.

• To shoot a short report, take a few photos, you need to take a more expensive device with high performance;
• If you plan to shoot a landscape, it is important to choose the maximum clarity and color depth settings;
• For portrait shooting, it is worthwhile to ensure high-quality reproduction of skin color and good blur in the background;
• For macro photography, the ability to focus on an object that is close is important.

Of course, each of the possibilities cannot be implemented in one camera, designed to solve only certain tasks.

Classification of digital cameras

The main criteria by which an objective assessment of the quality and performance of equipment is carried out is the physical size of the matrix. Traditionally, its measurement is carried out in mm or inches, it is due to this parameter that the quality parameters of the photo are affected:

• color rendering features;
• noise level indicator;
• dynamic range.

Good qualities are demonstrated by the technique in the process of shooting, even in the case of low lighting. Based on the dimensional parameter of the matrix, cameras are divided into classes.

Amateur models for beginners

This category includes most digital point-and-shoot cameras that cost up to 15,000 rubles. According to all the characteristics, the "insides" of these elements of technology can be compared with each other, "on paper" they always look impressive. A significant drawback of these devices is the insufficient physical size of the matrix, equal to 1/2 ''. If we add a high resolution to this parameter, then in general the technique can be considered equipped with a number of disadvantages.

• Lower ISO sensitivity;
• degraded image quality in low light;
• the occurrence of digital noise;
• noticeable deterioration in sharpness and color reproduction;
• narrow scope of the obtained images;
• lack of background blur option;
• "flat" view of the picture without the possibility of transferring volume.

Despite the complex of shortcomings, the "soap box" can become good option in the absence of creative tasks in front of you and the presence of a minimum goal. The model is inexpensive, and for better quality, you should give preference to a model equipped with an increased magnification.

Professional models for photographers

Even non-professionals prefer expensive mirror devices to soap dishes. It is impossible to find such models cheaper than 20,000 rubles. But their advantages over the previous class are obvious.

• A large number of options, including background blur;
• decent image quality;
• large matrix size;
• excellent color reproduction;
• increased sensitivity.

Consider a few good models among representatives of each class in order to understand the range of the market and be able to navigate it.

The best cameras: rating of 10 models

All the models under consideration will “rise” on the price tag – from the cheapest options to more expensive models.

Canon Digital IXUS 160

The model is one of the most budgetary on the market, in connection with this it has gained tremendous popularity.

Specifications:

• Matrix - 20.5 MP;
• Physical size - 1/2 .3'';
• ZOOM - 8 times;
• ISO setting - 100-1600;
• Automation is present.

After pressing the power button, the shutter is released quickly. The camera will be the best solution for novice users. The average cost of a product is 10-14 thousand rubles.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W830

The matrix size is 20.5 megapixels. The device has a lens with a long focus distance ZOOM 8. Auto focus often has misses, which greatly spoils big picture images, but due to the entry level of this camera, such shortcomings can be forgiven. The cost of the model is about 12,000 rubles.

Nikon Cool pix L430

This camera is the most affordable of the super zooms. It features a 28x zoom and a decent focal length. Despite such indicators, there are problems in use, since the matrix with the rest of the characteristics will not easily cope. The price category is attractive for the average buyer: to become the owner of the Nikon Cool pix L430 model, you have to pay 12-14 thousand rubles.

It's important to know! By the way, the Canon Power Shot SX410 IS device fell into a similar price category, which shares an honorable third place with the model in question. Both options are ideal for daytime shooting.

Sony Cyber ​​Shot DSC-H300

The model has a 35x zoom and good speed performance for the category in question. Takes 8 frames in one second. The maximum ISO declared by the manufacturer is 3200, which does not allow you to take a decent picture, but at ISO400 the image is very impressive. The model is more expensive than its predecessors, the price is 17-18 thousand rubles.

Nikon Cool pix P610

This is a premium camera with decent image quality. The peculiarity of the model is that with a standard matrix size of 2/3 '', the developers were able to limit themselves to a resolution of 16 megapixels, which made it possible to make a significant increase of 60 times. Device functionality is on high level, the range of options impresses the average user.

• Possibility of manual settings;
• Internet connection via WI-FI;
• increased high-speed shooting mode - 7 frames per second;
• automatic focusing on objects;
• other "chips" characteristic of expensive equipment.

The cost is from 25 thousand rubles, but the quality of shooting and advanced functionality of the model will definitely appeal to you.

Canon Power Shot SX60

This model belongs to an even higher price category, but still deserves special attention and respect. An ambiguous decision was the use of a 65x zoom with a small matrix size, but the presence of a high-quality stabilizer copes with the solution of the situation. You can highlight a small indicator of the range of focus distance and the ability to shoot video in HDR mode. The cost of the camera is 23,000 rubles.

Olympus Tough TG-850HS

The following models are in the middle price category, you can find an exception to the rule in the form of budget options, for example, the exquisite Olympus Tough TG-850 HS camera. The rugged camera, equipped with a swivel screen and Full HD video capture, allows users to enjoy high quality images. For such a price, ranging from 15 000 rubles, more advanced models are not offered on the domestic market. The technique is best option for work in especially extreme conditions.

Olympus Tough TG-4

Despite the common manufacturer, compared to the previous model, this option is identical, but it costs much more - about 27 000 rubles. The camera is equipped with extensive functionality, among the additional options, there are several pleasant moments.

• The optimal aperture ratio is F2.0;
• the ability to quickly turn on and focus;
• maintaining RAW mode;
• the ability to connect to the Internet;
• white balancing in manual mode;
• high video format - HDR;
• other useful and relevant features.

The model is ideal for any conditions, including for use by the whole family.

Sony Cyber ​​Shot DSC-TX30

The model is interesting for its price category, has an ultra-thin body (1.5 cm) and is suitable for use under water. The camera was made using a CMOS-sized sensor, with a resolution of 18.9 MP, an optimal result is obtained, in particular, under water. In addition, the model is equipped with high aperture ratios and a good range of focus distances. The picture can be shot in Full HD mode, which makes the model preferred by many users. You will have to pay for this device 25 000 rubles.

Fujifilm X100T

The sensor of this model is called X-trans, the resolution is 16.3 megapixels, there are a number of additional options.

• Primary color filter;
• auto focus sensors;
• high level of focus;
• decent color reproduction;
• fixed focus distance 35 mm;
• electronic rangefinder;
• affordable price - 28 000 rubles;
• abundance of control systems.

All models have their own characteristics. Knowing by what parameters and how to choose a camera, you will not get lost in the variety offered and will be able to buy a truly useful product.

Best compact cameras 2018: video

Publication date: 14.02.2017

Which camera to choose?

So, we have considered the main types of cameras. Now let's answer the main question: which camera should you choose? Let's start from goals.

Family photography. Children, holidays, vacation

Entry-level APS-C sensor DSLRs and mirrorless cameras are ideal for children and family photography. They have everything you need: automatic modes, an abundance of scene programs for shooting in different conditions. Included is a universal "whale" lens.

Canon EOS M3 / Canon EF-M 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM SETTINGS: ISO 100, F5.6, 1/250s

These cameras allow you to learn the basics of photography and improve. What is the difference between a DSLR and a mirrorless camera? The disadvantages of a SLR camera are its relatively large size and weight, plus its long battery life. The mirrorless is the opposite: more compact in size, but less battery life. Examples of current entry-level DSLRs are Canon 1200D, Canon 1300D, Nikon D3400, mirrorless cameras - Sony A5100, Fujifilm X-A2.

A compact camera is also a great choice for family photography. If the budget is very limited, you can choose one of the simplest models.

And here the question arises: perhaps it is more rational to buy a smartphone with a high-quality camera?

More interesting are advanced (top-end) compact cameras. If mirrorless and DSLRs may require additional investments (for example, buying a more powerful lens), then the compacts are already equipped. They are equipped with high-quality fast and versatile optics, have all the necessary settings and often look very stylish. However, their cost can be comparable or even significantly higher than the cost of entry-level DSLRs and mirrorless cameras. This is the price for a combination of versatility and quality. Model examples: Sony DSC-RX100M5, Canon PowerShot SX720 HS, Nikon Coolpix A900, Canon PowerShot G9 X.

Sportsman, extreme

Which camera to choose for shooting extreme sports? Usually athletes and extreme sportsmen prefer the lightest and most compact solutions. Ideally, if the camera is indestructible and unsinkable. Protected compact cameras meet such requirements. But this class of technology is losing ground under the onslaught of action cameras. The action camera can be mounted on almost any type of equipment (the main thing is to buy or make a suitable mount), many models have a protected design, come with aquaboxes or withstand immersion in water on their own.

With action cameras, you can record videos and take photos. As a rule, they are equipped with ultra-wide-angle lenses. There are cameras that allow you to shoot with a 360-degree field of view! It is worth paying extra for 4K video only if you are a professional video blogger or operator and know how to manage such a high resolution. A simple athlete will have enough Full HD.

Beginning photographer

Are you passionate about photography and want to improve? Or maybe you are looking for a gift for a beginner in photography?

An entry-level DSLR would be the best choice. It is easy to learn and comes with a versatile lens that will capture most scenes. Such cameras have automatic shooting modes and allow you to manually adjust all the parameters. This gives great creative freedom. Today, entry-level DSLRs are capable of producing image quality no worse than that of more expensive counterparts. The only difference is that their management is simplified, advanced features are removed. For a novice photographer, models Canon 1300D, Canon 1200D, Canon 750D and 760D, Nikon D3400, will be relevant.

Canon EOS 750D / Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM SETTINGS: ISO 100, F8, 1/320 s

Mirrorless is also a decent option, but the most affordable models are designed mainly for shooting in automatic modes. For manual setting It takes a long time to find the right items in the menu. Mirrorless models suitable for beginner photographers: Canon EOS M5, Sony A6000, Sony A6300, Sony Alpha 7 Mark II, Fujifilm X-A2.

Advanced amateur, professional

A professional photographer is someone who earns money from photography. What is a professional camera? This is a working tool that should take high-quality pictures and be as reliable and convenient as possible. Beauty and compactness are not the most priority characteristics here. Compactness often even becomes a disadvantage, since a small camera looks frivolous in the eyes of the customer.

What is a semi-professional camera? This is a camera for advanced amateur photographers. It may not have an indestructible body and increased reliability, the main thing is high image quality. Today, the line between professional and semi-professional equipment is very blurred. Often, professionals with a limited budget choose semi-professional models, and this does not prevent them from successfully doing their job.

Is a mirrorless camera suitable for professional photography? Today, DSLRs have had to make room in the market under the onslaught of Sony's line of full-frame mirrorless cameras. On the side of mirrorless cameras, there are the latest developments in the field of autofocus, the most modern image sensors. The body of a mirrorless camera is often much more compact than a similar level DSLR, but high-quality optics are usually the same in size.

If you are looking for compact solutions, take a look at the Micro 4/3 system cameras. They give an acceptable image quality, have all the functions necessary for an advanced photographer, and are easy to use.

ILCE-7RM2 / FE 55mm F1.8 ZA SETTINGS: ISO 160, F1.8, 1/125s, 55.0mm equiv.

How to choose a professional camera?

If you choose professional equipment, then you probably already have shooting experience, some kind of camera and lenses for it. For those who know what tasks a new camera is needed for, it is easy to decide. If you have a camera with a set of optics, it is more convenient to purchase a camera of the same brand and use it with an existing fleet of lenses. Of course, if you plan to buy a full-frame camera, then you cannot use the optics from the previous device with an APS-C sensor (crop DSLRs).

Let's say you have no experience in photography, but you want to become a professional photographer. Here it is worth starting from your budget and deciding in which areas you will work: weddings, portraits, landscapes, shooting food, objects, jewelry or interiors. This will help you choose not only the camera, but also suitable lenses.

Canon EOS 5D Mark III / Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II SETTINGS: ISO 100, F1.8, 1/2500 s

It is important to understand that professional equipment requires training and does not forgive mistakes, often there is no “green” automatic mode in it. For an effective start, think about investing money not only in photographic equipment, but also in your education.

The more expensive the camera, the more fine-tuning it has. It's better to start simple. Get a simpler camera, and put the saved money on a purchase additional equipment and lenses. Do not immediately aim at the most expensive professional cameras like Canon EOS-1D X Mark II, Nikon D5, because at first you will not be able to unleash their full potential. Take a closer look at the more versatile models of the middle price segment. A good choice for the "novice professional" will be full-frame Canon EOS 6D, Canon EOS 5D Mark III, Nikon D610, Nikon D750, Sony A7 Mark II and more affordable "cropped" and.

What to choose - "crop" or full frame?

The size of the image sensor is a factor that largely determines the quality of the resulting images. Full-frame cameras with a 24x36 mm matrix are more expensive and larger, the optics for them also cost serious money.

Canon EOS 5D Mark III / Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM SETTINGS: ISO 100, F6.3, 1/500s

Less digital noise, greater freedom in low light conditions, higher resolution, better detail, fine work with shallow depth of field and bokeh, a huge fleet of optics is a short list of full frame benefits. This camera is suitable for any task.

Should a pro or an advanced amateur buy a crop? After buying a device with an APS-C or Micro 4/3 matrix, many people will regularly visit painful thoughts like “oh, it’s a pity that I don’t have a full frame”. Nevertheless, for reportage shooting, it makes sense to take a closer look at the top crops. Their image quality is not much different from entry-level crops, while they provide unsurpassed speed, reliability, ease of use, they are more affordable than full frames with the same rate of fire. There are several cameras on the market with an APS-C and Micro 4/3 sensor designed for serious reportage work: Canon EOS 7D Mark II, Nikon D500, Fujifilm X-T2, Olympus E-M1 Mark II.

NIKON D7100 / Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II SETTINGS: ISO 100, F4, 1/1250s, 300.0mm equiv.

What brand of camera should I choose?

What to choose: Canon, Nikon, Sony or maybe Pentax? With regard to full-frame cameras, everything is quite simple: now such cameras are produced by several manufacturers. All of them mentioned above have a good reputation and many years of experience. Choosing a camera of a particular brand, we choose the whole system - in the future we will have to deal with lenses and flashes designed for this brand. Each system has its own lens mount (bayonet), and with its help you can attach to the camera only those optics that are designed for it.

NIKON D750 / Nikon AF-S Nikkor 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR SETTINGS: ISO 720, F8, 1/320s, 300.0mm equiv.

When choosing a system, you should pay attention to how developed it is, how large the choice of lenses and accessories is, whether there are official service centers in your city. Canon, Nikon and Sony are almost in complete parity here, and it is worth comparing specific camera models and lenses for them. You can add manufacturers of "cropped" cameras here: Fujifilm, Olympus, Panasonic.

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Have you decided to buy a digital camera? Let me congratulate you. This is one of the best ways to punch a gaping hole in the family budget. It is most likely useless to dissuade you, so I will just tell you how to choose digital camera so that this choice causes you minimal financial and psychological damage.

Unfortunately, it is impossible to give unambiguous, universal recommendations for choosing a camera for an abstract novice photographer, since the needs of all photographers are different. Different photographic tasks require different equipment. A camera that suits me perfectly may not be right for you. Despite this, I will still try to highlight here specific models of digital cameras that, in my opinion, meet the requirements of the widest range of photographers.

What you should pay attention to

Marketers do not get tired of brainwashing naive amateur photographers with those camera parameters that can be easily measured numerically (resolution, ISO, zoom ratio, etc.), although they just say very little about the suitability of the camera for real shooting outside the walls of a photo store.

The resolution of a camera (more precisely, its matrix) is measured in megapixels (Mp), i.e. in the number of dots that make up the camera's matrix, and hence the images obtained with it. Today, the resolution of digital cameras exceeds the capabilities of their lenses, and, much sadder, far exceeds the capabilities of most photographers shooting with these cameras. Ten megapixels is enough for anyone, and today it is difficult to find a camera with a lower resolution. Instead of resolution, pay more attention to the physical size of the matrix - the larger the size (i.e., the smaller the crop factor of the matrix), the better. Other things being equal, a larger sensor is more sensitive to light, has a greater dynamic range, and is less noisy.

ISO is a standard for the sensitivity of photographic material (in our case, a digital matrix) to light. The maximum ISO value indirectly characterizes the camera's ability to shoot in low light conditions, but we should not forget that increasing the sensitivity inevitably leads to noise. What is the use of the manufacturer's declared maximum value of ISO 102400 if it cannot be used in practice, since the image will be a solid red and blue mess? Compact cameras with small sensors always behave horribly at high ISOs. SLR cameras look much better, but also require sanity.

Zoom ratio is simply the ratio between the maximum and minimum focal lengths of a zoom lens. For example, a lens with a focal length of 18-55 mm is essentially a 3x zoom (55 ÷ 18 ≈ 3), although the concept of a zoom factor is more often used in relation to fixed lenses of compact cameras. Taken regardless of the focal length, the zoom ratio has no meaning and certainly should not serve as a criterion when choosing a camera or lens, and here's why: firstly, it says nothing about specific focal lengths. For example, two completely different lenses can turn out to be equally 5x zooms: 24-120 mm and 80-400 mm. Secondly, you have to pay for versatility with quality - 30x ultrazooms physically cannot provide decent sharpness, and their aperture ratio is not high; and therefore do not chase zoom lenses with exorbitant multiplicity. A convenient set of focal lengths is much more important than the zoom factor. To compare lenses, it is appropriate to use the concept of equivalent focal length, because it allows you to take into account the difference in the size of the sensors of different cameras.

Digital zoom is not only useless, but even somewhat harmful. Having nothing to do with optics, digital zoom simply stretches part of the image through the camera's software, which creates the illusion of zooming in, but leads to a noticeable loss in quality. Similarly, you can enlarge the image in Photoshop.

The most important and most stubbornly ignored parameter when choosing a camera by sellers is ergonomics - how comfortable the camera fits in the hand, how quickly it allows you to respond to changing shooting conditions, how thoughtful the management of the most important settings is and whether menu navigation takes too much time. Convenience is an individual matter. You can finally make sure that a particular camera is right for you only by picking it up.

Some parameters just need to be able to interpret. For instance, big weight is not an advantage in itself, but it can indirectly indicate the mechanical strength and reliability of the camera, and the high speed of continuous shooting almost always indicates that the camera is suitable for reportage work.

And one more important tip: never listen to consultants in photo equipment stores. Their goal is to sell you a camera, and preferably at a higher price, not to improve your photographs. Only a practicing photographer can know which camera is really good and which is not.

For more detailed information on what criteria should be followed when choosing a digital camera and optics for it, you can learn from the following articles: "What is a professional camera", "Camera options" and "Criteria for choosing lenses". About what else, besides the camera, the amateur photographer will have to acquire, is described in the article “Starting kit for photographic equipment”.

SLR cameras

Nikon FX

Nikon currently releases five full-frame models: D610, D750, Df, D810 and D5. Camera sales around the world are now falling, and if you do decide to buy a digital camera, Nikon will prefer that this camera is necessarily full-frame - simply because it is more expensive.

Of course, we are all very sad that the poor Japanese capitalists are suffering losses, but do you really need a full frame? The difference in image quality between DX and FX devices is minimal today, and is mainly manifested by a slightly lower level of FX noise at high ISO values.

Canon APS-C

Canon APS-C cameras have a 1.6 crop factor sensor, i.e. slightly smaller than the Nikon DX. Canon cameras are better suited for shooting video, and this is a reason to take a closer look at them if you are interested in video shooting. I myself am skeptical about shooting video on a SLR camera, but you are entitled to your own opinion.

Canon has seven current APS-C format models: 4000D, 2000D, 200D, 800D, 77D, 80D and 7D Mark II.

4000D, 2000D, 200D and 800D are amateur cameras. The Canon EOS 2000D is a great camera for a beginner photographer - small, light and not too expensive. Canon EOS 200D is even more compact, but in this regard, it has only a minimum of external controls, which, however, is partly offset by the presence of a touch screen. Canon EOS 800D is a slightly more advanced, but still amateur model. The Canon EOS 4000D is a cut down (not to say worse) version of the 2000D.

Canon Full Frame

Today Canon releases four full-frame models: 6D Mark II, 5D Mark IV, 5Ds and 1D X Mark II. The Canon EOS 1D C doesn't count because it's designed for video, not photography.

Compact cameras

No compact camera can match a DSLR in speed of operation, and few can match in image quality, but when a camera is required to fit in a pocket, DSLRs are completely unacceptable because of their size.

Obviously, if you only need compactness, without regard to image quality and ergonomics, then the camera built into a mobile phone may well replace a real camera. Another thing is that even the simplest soap dish is still more convenient to shoot than the most advanced smartphone.

By the simplest soap dish, I mean something like Nikon Coolpix A10. This ultra-budget camera costs $150, has a 1/2.3" sensor (crop factor 6), a good universal zoom lens and shoots much better than most phones, and besides, it runs on standard AA batteries, which helps a lot on trips.

The problem is that if a person is satisfied with the quality of the image obtained using a 1 / 2.3 "matrix (well, or 1 / 1.7" for more expensive soap dishes), then in most cases he will be satisfied with the quality that the matrix produces mobile phone- for social networks any rubbish will do. As for ease of use, a rare smartphone owner will agree to pay extra for a separate device with real buttons. He is accustomed to the touch screen and does not know that in some situations the archaic buttons are much more convenient.

However, fans of extreme recreation and tourism may like one of the protected compacts, say, the Olympus Tough TG-5 for $ 500, which has a waterproof shockproof case, built-in GPS receiver and thermometer, as well as a small 1 / 2.3-format matrix.

I don’t recommend advanced ultrazoom compacts to anyone for the reason that their matrices are still tiny, but in terms of size and price, ultrazooms are very close to budget DSLRs. It is possible that I do not understand something, but, in my opinion, if the camera looks and costs like a DSLR, but shoots like a cheap soap dish, then this is a bad camera and you should not buy it.

More expensive compact cameras with large matrices stand apart. The idea of ​​such cameras is to get the maximum image quality with the minimum size of the device.

Editors' Choice - Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II for $650, equipped with a 1" sensor (crop factor 2.7) and a zoom lens with an equivalent focal length of 24-100 mm at f / 1.8-2.8 aperture. Why exactly 1"? After all, there are compact cameras and a larger format, up to full-frame ones? That's how it is, but more and more serious compacts have dimensions that no longer allow us to consider them truly compact. And if the camera ceases to fit in your pocket, is it not better to buy a real SLR instead of it for less money and enjoy life? At the same time, the G7 X and other similar cameras provide image quality quite comparable to DSLRs, but at the same time, they practically do not differ in size from ordinary point-and-shoot cameras.

Mirrorless cameras

In principle, it is difficult for me to recommend one of the mirrorless systems to a novice photographer. Their functional advantages even over the simplest SLR cameras are not quite obvious, and the price of mirrorless cameras is still quite high. A person who switches to a mirrorless system should do this consciously and be well aware of what he is losing and what he is gaining. A classic DSLR always has a better price/performance ratio than a similar class mirrorless camera. The only unconditional advantage of mirrorless cameras is their relative lightness and compactness, for which you actually pay an additional premium.

If you have come to this life, then I would advise you to choose between the Olympus Micro 4/3, Fujifilm X, Sony α and maybe Canon EOS M systems. The Olympus system has the most thoughtful ergonomics and a wonderful variety of lenses, but the Olympus sensor is small (crop factor 2). Sony has both cropped and full frame models, but the choice of lenses leaves a lot to be desired. Fuji System - golden mean. The Canon EOS M system is hardly mature, but Canon mirrorless cameras are compatible (with an adapter) with lenses for EF and EF-S SLR cameras. Mirrorless cameras from other manufacturers are nothing more than compacts with interchangeable lenses and an enlarged matrix. For serious photography, they are of little use.

Thank you for your attention!

Vasily A.

post scriptum

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Hello colleagues! Today I’ll try to tell you how to choose a camera for an amateur, that is, a person who is not quite new to photography. Well, as usual, I have my own special view here: we choose not just an apparatus, but an apparatus for.

To begin with, at least with the fact that consumer "photo-soap dishes" are no longer suitable for you. Most likely, you started with such a fotik, right? "Soap box" is the first camera bought, rather like a toy. When you have played enough with it, when you have seen enough high-quality pictures of real masters, when you understand for yourself what kind of pictures, in what genre you yourself would like to take - you understand that the “soap box” is clearly not enough for you! She doesn't have the same opportunities.

Thus, our choice is narrowing - we do not consider compact cameras from the lower price category. Although, of course, no one forbids arguing about this! 🙂 However, we need to choose a digital camera that will solve our photographic tasks, and not which someone on the Internet considers the best!

And even more so, if you plan to engage in stock photography, the device will be needed not as a toy, but as a working tool.

Camera Selection Criteria

As always, when we need to make the right purchase, in particular, to choose a good camera for an amateur, we must be guided by some milestones that will mark the area of ​​​​our priorities. Well, if I were faced with a choice new camera how would I do it myself?

Since I am a stock photographer (albeit a shitty one), the main selection criterion for me will be what kind of pictures I am going to take in the future? We have already agreed from the very beginning that we are advanced amateurs, which means that we already have some experience in photography. Therefore, we can analyze: what did we like to shoot up to this point, what exactly did we shoot most often? And it would be advisable to choose the device for these subjects. And for those who already try their hand at photo stocks, there is one more criterion: what genres of stock photography do you like best?

Will we shoot urban scenes and genre on the streets? Or natural landscapes? Or work in a home studio, such as shooting objects, still lifes and food? Or leisurely studio portraits? Or dynamic sports competitions, or gossip in the difficult conditions of dark clubs? Each genre is best suited to its own class of technology. Of course, all this can be photographed with the same camera. But it's about convenience! About the maximum disclosure of all potentials, and not about “taking a picture at least somehow”.

Compact devices of varying degrees of sophistication

Ideal for family shooting, no claims for any sales, commissioned shoots, etc. These will be photos “for memory”, like “how we went swimming”, “how we built a garage”, and the like.

Compacts are just for such use and invented.

• They are small and light, the lens is often completely hidden in the body, and the camera becomes like a mobile phone - just a flat box. The advantages are obvious - the device fits into any pocket.
• They are easy to work with; often they have only one button and a scene selector. That is the very minimum that only allows him to work as a camera. The advantages are also obvious - no need to think. 🙂 Everyone will be able to turn the wheel on the desired plot program and press the button.
• These scene programs represent their own pre-prepared settings for certain everyday scenes and subjects - landscape, portrait, macro, and so on. For example, when you set the "landscape" program, the camera processor reduces the aperture so that the depth of field (depth of field) becomes wider. This will lead to the fact that both the foreground and the background will be in sharpness, which is just what is important for the landscape. And if you set the "sport" program, then the processor reduces the shutter speed to avoid blurring. Etc. And in many compact models, these settings cannot be changed manually.

If someone thinks that such simple cameras are not suitable for working on photo stocks, then he will be mistaken. They are suitable, but true for a limited range of subjects. For example, you can shoot (and sell on stocks) urban genre scenes. Those where you do not need to catch the exact moments (because the shutter lag will not allow you to do this, and it is typical to varying degrees for all compacts). But city landscapes, people walking in parks, views of embankments, monuments, and so on - all this is available for compacts, and it’s quite sold on stocks!

As prices go up, compact cameras get more features, more features, and more convenience. The lens acquires normal shape and quality, ceases to hide in the body. Older models are already difficult to distinguish from SLR cameras! What is it in appearance as well as opportunities. And it is already difficult to call them compact. In fact, these are the same DSLRs, only without a mirror, and the lens cannot be changed. Previously, they were called "prosumers", a cross between professional and consumer cameras.

And of course, such devices are completely suitable for making money on photobanks.

• They are still quite small, not as bulky as the top mirrors - they can be easily taken with you on trips,
• They have a full range of settings, have manual modes, allow you to fully control the process of photography in all possible conditions,
• They often have very decent lenses and the same matrices, which will make it possible to take photos that are indistinguishable in quality from pictures from professional DSLRs,
• They do not remove the lens, which means that you do not have to regularly clean the matrix and retouch dust spots on the pictures.

To be honest, if I had to buy a camera “for myself” now, I would buy an advanced compact! Maybe not the most expensive and heaped up, but from the upper price range.

Mirrorless cameras

This is a very recent creation. They often look like real compact "soap dishes", only they allow you to change lenses!

This is a type of camera with interchangeable lenses, endowed with many advantages of mirror analogues: manual mode, high-quality images, large matrix, excellent shooting speed. These devices do not have a mirror and an optical viewfinder, so they are relatively small. This allows them to rightly be called an advanced compact with interchangeable lenses, by the way, which still needs to be found on sale.

Intending to purchase a mirrorless camera, you need to understand that functionally it does not surpass a SLR camera, but at the same time it is quite expensive. But if you appreciate the compactness and lightness of the device, coupled with the high quality of shooting, you can pay attention to such devices.

About two years ago, I started noticing photographs taken with such devices in Lori's photo bank. They are still small, but over time it becomes more and more. The quality makes it possible to take them to the Lori base, the inspectors usually do not have any comments. Unless the photographer himself makes mistakes; but mistakes can be made even with the coolest and most professional camera in hand.

SLR cameras

It is believed that there is no professional photographer without a SLR camera. 🙂 Well, I have to agree with that. DSLRs are intended at least for advanced users who have an idea about photography and intend to further improve their skills. Their task is to provide the owner with the highest quality image that reflects the photographer's individual view of the world, which point-and-shoot samples cannot provide.

It is inconvenient to take such equipment on trips and on vacation, it is heavy and voluminous.

Although, of course, professional landscape photographers do this; in addition to the usual backpack, they carry with them a wardrobe trunk with photographic equipment under twenty kilograms in weight. They need to bring to the editorial office the highest quality images that are suitable for printing on paper, often also in a large, exhibition format. Only SLR cameras can provide this.

It is best to use DSLRs in the studio or when shooting to order. Weddings, for example, are what many photographers do. For studio work (and this may be your apartment), mirror devices are ideally suited. But they are also ideal for reporting, sports, club events, etc., where you need to shoot a lot and quickly, or where there is a lack of lighting. I have been filming rock concerts in small clubs for a while and can confirm that with an advanced professional DSLR it would be much easier! And I had to work with a simple Nikon D50.

Professionals usually use manual mode when working with them. This allows you to show an individual shooting technique and indicates a certain level of skill. Some DSLRs are also equipped with an automatic mode, but only younger models; the older and top ones do not have them, they do not have plot switches.

An important distinguishing feature of SLR cameras is the availability of interchangeable lenses, since the capabilities of one lens do not allow high-quality shooting in various conditions. You may also need other accessories - an external flash, a transmitter for studio monoblocks, memory cards, filters, external battery grips and much more. As a result, we conclude that a SLR camera is suitable for serious photography. Read to earn money. If your interests are limited to shooting swimming in the sea or monkeys in the zoo for home viewing and you are deciding which camera to buy, you should not spend extra money - it is better to look at other models that I wrote about above.

What features do you prefer?

Let's now briefly talk about the parameters of a digital camera that you need to pay attention to when choosing.

ISO- camera sensitivity to light; the higher this parameter, the darker conditions you can take pictures. Manufacturers often arrange a sensitivity race - which camera has a higher ISO. Or they declare the maximum ISO values, presenting this as the dignity of their model.

You should not pay attention to these advertising lures. You should shoot at the minimum ISO; less is better. The higher you set the sensitivity, the more digital noise will appear in the picture. When working on photo stocks, this means the higher the risk that the photo will not be accepted. If I was looking for a new digital camera, I would prefer one with a minimum sensitivity of 100. Even better, if the camera can set a fractional ISO, due to which it can be reduced to 50!

In other words, when choosing, it is not the largest, but the smallest ISO value that matters. But no one in the store will tell you about it. 🙂

Camera resolution- an indicator that reflects the number of light-sensitive elements-pixels on the camera matrix. The more of them, the more accurate the picture is. Today, often, the resolution of cameras exceeds the capabilities of their lenses, and most importantly, the qualifications of their owners. For any beginner taking standard shots, 10 megapixels is already out of the question, and most cameras have much higher resolution.

At the same time, it is necessary to clearly understand - the size of the matrix and the number of pixels, things are not the same! On a very small matrix (the size of a match head!) There may be 16 or 20 megapixels! This is typical for consumer compacts, and this is nothing more than a marketing hoax. Very small pixels lead to image degradation. This is due to electronic effects; Roughly speaking, charges easily flow from one too small pixel to another. And vice versa, my old Nikon D50 has a matrix about half the size of a standard 23x15 mm photographic frame, and it has only 6 (six) megapixels! This means that the size of each pixel is quite large, and you don't have to worry about the quality of the picture at all. Unless I'm screwing myself when shooting.

Started to appear the latest technology matrices, such as back reflection, when light from an object passes through a pixel twice - first straight, and then back, reflected from the matrix substrate. This is how the eyes of many animals work, for example, cats - that's why their eyes glow in the dark. The quality of the photographs, as they say, rises very sharply. But I dare to think that such a situation (the fewer light-sensitive elements on the matrix, the better the picture) will still be maintained for a long time.

Zoom ratio(Zoom from the English. "enlargement of the image") - the ratio of the maximum focal length to the minimum. For example, a lens with a focal length of 35-105mm will have a 3x zoom, which is usually indicated on devices as 3x. There are two types of ZOOM:

• Optical - characterizes the optical system of the device. The process of approaching/removing an object is carried out by shifting the lenses in the lens with the remaining parameters of the camera unchanged. This ensures good quality photos. Conclusion - it is worth choosing a lens with a large optical zoom,
• Digital (digital zoom) - often used by marketers as a decoy for amateurs, although there is no real increase in the picture. The thing is that digital zoom simply stretches the image, just as we usually do on a tablet, pushing the image apart with our fingers. This creates the illusion of magnification, often resulting in loss of image quality.

Possibility of shooting video. Almost all cameras now have this feature. Useful from all points of view. At the household level, you can show your loved ones videos from your last barbecues or trips to the warm seas. And photo stockers know that sales of footages (short videos) have rapidly gained popularity, and now, perhaps, there is not a single photo bank without such content. Footage is much more expensive than still photos. I notice that some successful stock photographers in the past are gradually moving into footage shooting almost entirely, stopping taking pictures in the traditional way.

Ergonomics- an important parameter of the camera, which sellers pay little attention to. Meanwhile, this is a very important indicator of the functionality and ease of use of the device. Agree, I want to comfortably hold the camera in my hand and not figure it out for hours in the intricacies of settings. I would like all the buttons to be at hand, so that you have to climb into the menu less often to configure something. And the large rear screen is very handy for judging framing and quality.

Also pay attention to small parts. For example, you will most likely need a hot shoe for an external flash. Usually it is always there, except for cheap compact cameras. Sooner or later you will need a tripod socket.

Well, there are a number of parameters that are difficult to assess unambiguously. For example, high burst speed is good when working on a photo essay. But do you need it if you shoot still lifes or food at home? Or heavy weight - of course, it is not very comfortable to shoot with a heavy camera, however, on the other hand, this is a direct evidence of its mechanical strength and reliability, and this is important in difficult conditions, for example, in a music club. Where you can easily be elbowed, doused with beer, knocked down in the crowd, and so on. 🙂

In general, everyone should have a camera these days. Choose the one that suits you best and shoot. The path from a cat shoot to your own cool photo studio is not so impossible. 🙂
And welcome to photo stocks!