For those still on the lookout for the perfect camera, here’s the next article in the series ‘Which is the one for me?’ If you’re a keen photographer or professional, you might want to look beyond traditional digital SLR (D-SLR) cameras and consider the new breed of mirrorless compact system cameras. Convenient to carry around with lots of easy-to-use controls, a good mirrorless camera takes amazing photos while being fast and reliable. Besides the basic lens kit it comes with, it also has a great selection of lenses if you ever want to upgrade. Here are my mirrorless camera recommendations, right from entry-level models to ones aimed at luring potential DSLR buyers.
Sony Alpha A6000 (Best for beginners)A versatile mirrorless camera featuring a 24.3 megapixel sensor, the Sony Alpha A6000 can shoot full HD movies and performs really well in low light too. The A6000 can continuously shoot up to 11 frames per second, and has one of the quickest and best auto focusing systems that uses both phase and contrast-detection methods.
Pros: 24 megapixel APS-C sensor, fast and continuous auto focus for stills and videos, USB charging, Wi-Fi and NFC.
Cons: No touchscreen, no in-body image stabilisation, sluggish start-up.
Fujifilm X-T10 (Best for enthusiasts)The X-T10 has sleek, retro styling, features a 16.3 mega pixel sensor, versatile autofocus modes, and a high-resolution electronic viewfinder. It’s capable of up to eight frames per second, continuous shooting and gives full HD 1080p video recording.
Pros: Excellent image quality, great battery life, Wi-Fi and film simulation modes.
Cons: Average video quality, no touchscreen.
Panasonic Lumix GH4 (Best for video)If you’re looking to make movies on a budget, the GH4 is an amazing buy. It’s a great hybrid camera for both professional photo and video use. Not only can it record 4k video internally to a sufficiently fast SD memory card, it’s also great for stills with tonnes of customisable controls, fully-articulating touchscreen, high-resolution electronic view finder, 12 frames per second continuous shooting and quick auto focus even in very low light.
Pros: Pro-level video options, controls and displays, 4K Video recorded internally, fully-articulated touchscreen, Wi-Fi and NFC.
Cons: No built-in stabilisation, average high ISO performance, slow tracking focus.
Sony A7R Mark II (Best for professionals)The mirrorless camera that’s making professionals give up their DSLRs, the Sony A7R Mk II doesn’t compromise on anything. It’s the most complete hybrid still-cum-video camera to date, with the amazing 4K detail of the Panasonic GH4, the low-light performance of a full-frame sensor and a five-axis image stabilisation that works with any lens.
Pros: Fantastic 42 megapixel images, 4K Video, 5-axis image stabilisation, Wi-Fi, USB charging and good ISO images.
Cons: Bad battery life, confusing menu system, screen not fully-articulated or touch-sensitive.
With only one more article featuring DSLRs left in this series, I’m sure the more experienced photographers among you will be ready to choose a camera to suit your needs. But remember, what counts is what you do with the camera you have, not just which camera you buy.
