Mirrorless vs DSLR

The world of photography and which equipment to use can be confusing and sometimes overwhelming. I am often asked by my coaching students which camera is right. The answer is whichever is right for you. Here's a few pointers which might help you decipher what will be right for you...

• What's the Difference?

DSLR - This camera uses a mirror mechanism to reflect light from the lens into an optical viewfinder.

When you take a shot, the mirror flips up and hits the image sensor.

Mirrorless - This camera uses the light directly onto the image

• Size & Weight

DSLR - Generally bulkier and heavier due to the internal mirror and prism system

Mirrorless - More compact and lightweight which is handy for travel and street photography

• Speed & Performance

DSLR - Traditionally had the edge in autofocus and lag-free shooting, especially for fast moving

subjects.

Mirrorless - They are now on par, offering super fast autofocus and high speed continuous shooting and

often outperform DSLRs

• Battery Life

DSLR - Longer battery life due to optical viewfinder ie no power needed for live view.

Mirrorless - Everything is digital so the batteries are working harder

• Image & Video Quality

Both systems now offer excellent image quality and both support full frame crop sensors.

DSLR - Tried and true - plenty of lens options & accessories.

Mirrorless - Excellent video features (4K & 8K), better in-body stabilisation and newer tech integration

• Viewfinder Experience

DSLR - Optical viewfinder - real time with no delay

Mirrorless - Electronic viewfinder (EVF) Live view with exposure, white balance and effects visible before

you shoot.

• Lens Compatibilty

DSLR - Huge library of native lenses

Mirrorless - Growing quickly with adaptors available to allow use of DSLR lenses although this can

affect performance at times.

• Price

Entry Level - Equivalent

High End Gear - Mirrorless is a bit more expensive, especially when adding on lenses to your purchase

• Which One is Right for You?

DSLR - Great battery Life and Lens Legacy, Optical Viewfinder and Durability.

Mirrorless - Portability and Modern Technology, 4K, 8K and Advanced Autofocus.

• Ultimately both DSLR and Mirrorless cameras offer exceptional results. How you shot will contribute to your choice, with which features matter most and how you see your photography evolving.
• The best camera choice for you is the one that gets you out shooting and excited about the craft.
• Want help picking the model or comparing specific cameras? Get in Touch- I'm here to help :)