"What kind of camera do you have?" - this is the most popular question asked to the photographer by viewers who liked this or that shot. Marketing is doing its job and now almost everyone has a DSLR with a whale lens hanging around their neck, photo hosting sites are rapidly filled with the same type of digital garbage, and users ask in bewilderment “why are my photos no different from a point-and-shoot camera, after all, I spent $1000?”
“Alexander, what kind of camera do you have?”... this question is asked to me with enviable consistency, it’s time to answer what I use to shoot with. And here yesterday Petya lovigin I wrote that every photographer should write a post about photographic equipment... And I will also express my opinion on how to approach the issue of choosing a digital camera in simple human language from the point of view of an amateur. After all, I photograph my travels for myself and for pleasure :)
The availability of SLR cameras, the emergence of mirrorless compact cameras and simply progress in the development of photographic equipment has led to the fact that the amount of photo garbage on the Internet is growing in geometric progression. Most important point in choosing a camera - this is the fact that the quality of the resulting images does not always depend on the cost of the camera.
Camera matrix
Among the endless number technical characteristics- matrix, this is one of the most important parameters. When choosing a digital camera, many people pay attention to the number of megapixels. However, it is not the number of megapixels, but the physical size of the matrix that is the parameter of a digital camera on which the quality of the images directly depends (the larger the matrix, the correspondingly higher the quality of the image). The effect of matrix size on quality is especially noticeable when shooting in low light conditions. At the same time, images on small matrices begin to make noise. For budget cameras it is given in inches as a fraction. For standard compacts, the matrix size is 1/2.3 - 1/3. For compact SLR cameras of a higher class – 1/1.6 - 1/2. In this case, you need to understand that the larger the denominator (number below), the smaller the physical size of the matrix. At the cameras high class The matrix size is usually given in mm.
Comparison table of matrix sizes for new cameras, which were presented this year at the autumn Photokina exhibition in Germany:
The cameras are like this:
I. Digital compact cameras:
A. Compact digital cameras (normal picture, normal dynamic range, many amateur options and modes):
1/ Very small “credit card” format cameras. Some of them have a zoom lens that moves to vertical plane, thus the camera is actually “flat”. On the one hand, it is synonymous with the stereotype of a “female” camera, on the other hand, it is surprisingly compact.
2/ Slightly larger camera with magnification up to 4x-10x
3/ Special moisture-dust-protective and shock-resistant compacts. According to the experience of my friends who dive, this budget option does not withstand even half of the declared depth and the picture is quite mediocre. So this choice remains only for the “fish-in-Egypt”.
And this is GoPro - a camera that has become an unspoken standard in extreme photo and video shooting. The image quality is very mediocre, but probably the highest in its class of cameras. Attaches to a helmet, car, airplane, etc.
B. Universal digital cameras with a wide range of focal lengths - magnification up to 20-25x
(normal picture, normal dynamic range, many amateur options and modes, there are manual modes)
These cameras are not ultra-compact, but smaller than a DSLR, but they are enough for most creative tasks.
A prerequisite when choosing such a camera is the presence of an image stabilizer, although now it is already available almost everywhere.
B. Semi-professional compacts (improved picture, greater dynamic range, many amateur options and modes, as well as professional modes and settings)
These cameras are usually the size of a compact ultrasonic (category B), but have improved optics, better build quality and, according to the manufacturer, produce very high-quality results. From my long-term experience with the Canon PowerShot Pro1 camera, I can attest to this; it was a very cool model. Now in the Canon line there are models with the G index.
II. Mirrorless cameras with interchangeable lenses (matrix crop factor 1.0-1.6)
(great picture, large dynamic range, many amateur options and modes, as well as professional modes and settings)
It's comparative new class cameras, when in a compact body you get photo quality quite comparable to bulky SLR cameras. I was at the presentation of a series of Fuji mirrorless cameras, I really liked their models. I'm thinking about a second camera like this. However, I considered an option with a 10-20 lens, but this is not available yet.
The Fuji X-E1 and X-F1 are the only mirrorless cameras I've held for a couple of days. On the one hand, I really like their old-school design and small size, on the other hand, it’s a little too small for me. Great picture quality coupled with a slow digital viewfinder. A detailed post about my impressions of the X-E1 will be coming soon, but not everything is as clear as they promise.
A good test of top compacts, incl. and there are mirrorless ones in Anton Martynov’s LiveJournal.
III. DSLR cameras
In recent years, in this class there has been an increasing segmentation of the model range, which, in my opinion, is not always justified even from a marketing point of view. I shoot with Canon cameras, so it’s easier for me to give an example of their lineup.
1/ Ultra-budget DSLRs (great picture, good dynamic range, many amateur options and modes, as well as professional modes and settings)
They are the smallest among DSLRs, the matrix crop factor is 1.6, the build quality means savings on everything.
Example: Canon 1000D
2/ Entry-level DSLR cameras (great picture, good dynamic range, many amateur options and modes, as well as professional modes and settings)
This is the most popular class of SLR cameras. At a cost of $500-700, this is the best option for starting.
Crop factor 1.6x
Example: Canon 550-650D
3/ Semi-professional SLR cameras.
Crop factor 1.6x. Compared to the previous subcategory, it has a slightly larger size and weight, excellent build quality, and the body is no longer made of plastic, but of metal. More creative and professional modes. I have been using this camera (40D) since 2008 and have been convinced many times that the right choice was made, albeit with an overpayment at the start.
Example: Canon 60D
4/ Budget full-frame DSLR
Crop factor 1.0x. This is a slightly more budget version of the top model, but with a full-frame sensor. Cost $2100. Canon and Nikon presented these models in September 2012, i.e. completely new.
Example: Canon 6D
5/ Professional full-frame DSLR.
Crop factor 1.0x. $3200. For some reason, this particular category is the dream of any photographer (not always justified) and the major choice of all those who do not count money. There is ideal picture quality when combined with good optics, many settings and the widest possible dynamic range.
Example: Canon 5D Mark II-III
6/ Professional reportage SLR cameras
Crop factor 1.0x. Expensive, for a narrow segment of professionals.
Example: Canon 1DX
Choice of optics:
What do I shoot with?
1. 2003-2005. My first digital camera, purchased in 2003, was a Chinese semi-no-name Jenoptik with 2MP plastic optics. It did not have any manual settings, but it could record video 320x240 15 fps :) I bought it in the center of Munich during my first trip abroad.
From the very beginning of my passion for photography, I set myself the task that each subsequent device would at least pay for itself. It is simple and achievable with some effort. The photographs taken with this camera were published several times in A4 magazines, and also won several competitions, which brought me two more new cameras :)
2. 2005-2006. Canon PowerShot S1. This was Canon's first ultra-zoom with a stabilizer and excellent video quality. Amazing camera!
3. 2006-2008. Canon PowerShot Pro1. This camera was released alone in its model range and was never continued. At launch it cost over $1,000, had class L optics and excellent performance. This camera left behind the most pleasant impressions and memories. Once I leaned towards the water while sitting in a kayak and forgot that I had a camera hanging around my neck. In general, it completely dived under the water... I dried it for a week, and then took it to the official service center, where they told me that it was cheaper to buy a new one, but the craftsmen in a small photo workshop revived it by replacing some kind of power controller for only 30 dollars :)
4. 2008-2011. The era of DSLR cameras in my photography arsenal has finally arrived. By this point, I had long been ready to buy a DSLR, but if I had to choose “a camera or another trip,” I was inclined to the latter. I didn’t buy the entry-level 450D camera at that time, but bought the 40D for $1,300, which was a cosmic sum for me at that time. After 4 years, the camera looks almost perfect, the most convenient wheel under the thumb, durable and unpretentious. Its analogue now is 60D, I recommend it!
It’s appropriate to mention optics here... 1300 for a body at that moment really knocked me down, so the first lens was fifty dollars - Canon EF 50mm F1.8 II. Served me faithfully until 2011, when I fell on the floor of a hotel in Sri Lanka and broke into two halves :(
I also used two lenses with this camera: Sigma AF 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC OS and Sigma AF 10-20mm F4-5.6 EX DC HSM.
This is the minimum that I still advise those who are on a limited budget to take. Sigma has inconsistent quality and it is advised to choose between several lenses when purchasing. Most of the photos on my blog were taken with these lenses. From the perspective of what technology I use now, we can say that these lenses are blurry, give poor bokeh, are not fast, etc... However, all this can be learned by comparison and this comparison must be passed gradually by a photographer who is growing and improving .
5. 2011-… . Having realized what and where was holding me back in my technical growth, I bought a full-frame Canon 5D Mark II. With a camera of this class, you no longer need to waste money on mediocre optics, so the first lens was the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L USM. Very sharp, fast and high quality, but not at all universal. That's why I sold it after half a year.
I really love wide angle and genre portraits, so I took the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM. I chose between 16-35 and 17-40 F4. I weighed everything and chose the first one, I’m very pleased.
And Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM. Here the choice was similar with F4 and the option with/without stabilizer. I took "without" because the price of "with" is prohibitively high. Simply an ideal lens for travel portraits, fast and sharp. The disadvantages are large, noticeable and heavy.
If you look at examples of photographs from the start to the present day, the difference is certainly noticeable. However, this difference needs to be felt and understood what and why is needed at each next moment in time. Next, perhaps I will have some fixes, we’ll see...
Here's an example of a nice infographic on how to choose the camera that's right for you:
My tips for choosing a travel camera:
You've been shooting with a digital point-and-shoot camera for several years, but don't want to buy a bulky camera - pay attention to the class of mirrorless cameras.
- Don’t chase megapixels and numbers in technical specifications. A certain level of progress has already been achieved in leaps and bounds, then it moves very slowly and progressively.
- Do not change the camera after 2-3 years for a similar one in the same class. The updated model most likely has exclusively marketing improvements. You won't move forward significantly.
- the quality of the original image will increase in direct proportion to the cost of the camera and the cost of its optics, however, if you pick up the most expensive camera, you will not be able to immediately get the desired result and, quite likely, you will be disappointed in the unsuccessful investment.
- the original quality of the image obtained when shooting with an expensive SLR camera, but without processing and semantic load when shooting, will practically not differ in any way from the image obtained using a cheap compact camera, and sometimes with a telephone. An example is Lebedeva's LJ (tema) - he shoots with one of the most expensive cameras in the Canon lineup and the best optics, but for the vast majority of his tasks a good compact may be enough.
- I believe that you need to gradually and consciously increase the class of your technique, understanding what and at what point limits you technically. You need to make the most of the level of technology that is already in your hands. Only understanding this will allow you to make very informed choices from both a technical and financial point of view.
PS This article is just a subjective view of an amateur who shoots for himself and with his soul. There are technical inaccuracies, but I don’t attach much importance to them, since the main thing in photography is not the technique at all :)
What is your opinion? Tell us what you shoot with? Are you satisfied? What are you missing? How did you choose this or that technique? Have you stepped on a rake? Did you make a mistake in your choice?
Publication date: 14.02.2017
Which camera should you choose?
So, we looked at the main types of cameras. Now let's answer the main question: which camera should you choose? Let's start with goals.
Family photography. Children, holidays, vacation
SLR and mirrorless cameras entry-level with APS-C matrix. 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, 1/250 sec
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 DSLR are its relatively large size and weight, plus its long battery life. With a mirrorless camera, the opposite is true: more compact sizes, but shorter battery life. Examples of current entry-level DSLRs are Canon 1200D, Canon 1300D, Nikon D3400, mirrorless cameras - Sony A5100, Fujifilm X-A2.
Also excellent choice For family photography there will be a compact camera. If your budget is very limited, you can choose one of the simplest models.
And here the question arises: is it perhaps more rational to buy a smartphone with a high-quality camera?
More interesting are advanced (top-end) compact cameras. While mirrorless and DSLR cameras may require additional investments (for example, purchasing a more powerful lens), compacts are already equipped. They are equipped with high-quality high-aperture and universal optics and have all required settings and often look very stylish. However, their cost can be comparable or even noticeably higher than the cost of entry-level DSLRs and mirrorless cameras. This is the price to pay for the combination of versatility and quality. Examples of models: Sony DSC-RX100M5, Canon PowerShot SХ720 HS, Nikon Coolpix A900, Canon PowerShot G9 X.
Athlete, extreme sportsman
Which camera to choose for extreme sports photography? Typically, athletes and extreme sports enthusiasts prefer the lightest and most lightweight compact solutions. Ideally, the camera is indestructible and unsinkable. Rugged compact cameras meet these requirements. But this class of technology is losing ground under the onslaught of action cameras. An 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 can withstand immersion in water.
Action cameras 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 in 360 degrees! It’s worth overpaying for 4K video only if you are a professional video blogger or operator and know how to manage such high resolution. For a simple athlete, Full HD will be enough.
Beginner photographer
Are you interested in photography and want to improve? Or maybe you are looking for a gift for a photography beginner?
The best choice would be an entry-level DSLR camera. It is easy to learn and comes with a universal lens that will allow you to capture most scenes. Such cameras have automatic shooting modes and allow you to manually configure all parameters. This gives enormous creative freedom. Today, entry-level DSLRs are capable of producing image quality no worse than their more expensive counterparts. The only difference is that their management is simplified and advanced functions are removed. For a novice photographer, the Canon 1300D, Canon 1200D, Canon 750D and 760D, Nikon D3400, models will be relevant.
Canon EOS 750D / Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM SETTINGS: ISO 100, F8, 1/320 s
A mirrorless camera is also a worthy option, but the most affordable models are designed mainly for shooting in automatic modes. To manually configure it, you will have to search for the necessary items in the menu for a long time. Mirrorless camera models suitable for beginning 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 makes 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 to use as possible. Beauty and compactness are far from being the most priority characteristics here. Compactness often even becomes a disadvantage, since a small camera in the eyes of the customer looks frivolous.
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 quality pictures. 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 on the market under the pressure of the line of full-frame mirrorless cameras from Sony. On the side of mirrorless cameras there are the latest developments in the field of autofocus and the most modern image sensors. The body of a mirrorless camera is often much more compact than a DSLR of the same level, but high-quality optics are usually the same in size.
If you are looking for compact solutions, take a look at Micro 4/3 system cameras. They provide acceptable image quality, have all the functions an advanced photographer needs, and are easy to use.
ILCE-7RM2 / FE 55mm F1.8 ZA SETTINGS: ISO 160, F1.8, 1/125 s, 55.0 mm eq.
How to choose a professional camera?
If you choose professional equipment, then you probably already have experience in photography, some kind of camera and lenses for it. For those who know what tasks a new camera is needed for, it’s 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 set of lenses. Of course, if you are planning to buy a full-frame camera, then you will not be able to use the optics from the previous device with an APS-C sensor (crop DSLR).
Let's say you have no experience in photography, but you want to take up photography professionally. Here you should start from your budget and decide in which areas you will work: weddings, portraits, landscapes, photography of food, objects, jewelry or interiors. This will help you choose not only a 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 is unforgiving of mistakes; often there is no “green” in it automatic mode. For an effective start, consider investing money not only in photographic equipment, but also in your training.
The more expensive the camera, the more fine-tuning it has. It's better to start simple. Buy a simpler camera, and save the money you save to buy additional equipment and lenses. You shouldn’t immediately jump at the most expensive professional cameras like Canon EOS-1D X Mark II, Nikon D5, because at first you won’t be able to unlock their full potential. Take a closer look at the more versatile mid-range models price segment. A good choice for the “beginner professional” would be the full-frame Canon EOS 6D, Canon EOS 5D Mark III, Nikon D610, Nikon D750, Sony A7 Mark II and more affordable “cropped” ones.
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, and the optics for them also cost a lot of money.
Canon EOS 5D Mark III / Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM SETTINGS: ISO 100, F6.3, 1/500 s
Less digital noise, greater freedom when working in low light conditions, higher resolution, better detail, fine work with shallow depth of field and bokeh, a huge fleet of optics - this is a short list of the advantages of full frame. This camera is suitable for any task.
Should a pro or an advanced amateur buy a crop? Many, after purchasing a device with an APS-C or Micro 4/3 matrix, will regularly be visited by painful thoughts like “oh, it’s a pity that I don’t have a full frame.” Nevertheless, for reportage photography, it makes sense to take a closer look at the top “crop” ones. Their image quality is not much different from entry-level crop cameras, but they provide unsurpassed speed, reliability, ease of use, and 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 matrix, 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, 1/1250 s, 300.0 mm equiv.
Which 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. By choosing a camera from a specific brand, we are choosing a 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 (mount), 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, 1/320 s, 300.0 mm equiv.
When choosing a system, you should pay attention to how developed it is, how large the selection of lenses and accessories is, and whether there are official service centers in your city. Canon, Nikon and Sony are almost at parity here, and it is worth comparing specific camera models and lenses for them. You can add here the manufacturers of “cropped” cameras: Fujifilm, Olympus, Panasonic.
Canon SLR cameras are produced by the world leader in the video and photographic equipment market. The logo of this company can be seen on amateur devices and professional devices. Over almost a century-long history, the company has proven its professionalism by producing some of the most best models cameras Among widest range Each consumer will find a camera according to his preference. In order not to make a mistake in choosing, we will review the most popular modifications of this brand’s products.
Canon 6D DSLR camera
A budget full-frame DSLR matches the quality of premium devices, but costs an order of magnitude less. The device went on sale in 2012, filled with modern electronics. The availability of GPS and Wi-Fi modules plays an important role in the popularity of the camera.
Installing the recommended lenses allows you to achieve optimal detail. In darkened rooms and in the evening the pictures are obtained good quality thanks to the high ISO level. Frame output is 4.5 pieces. per second. This is slightly less than that of competitors, but it allows you to solve most of the tasks. Consumers note high video quality, good sound and detail with low noise levels. While the camera has gained in price, it has lost in ergonomics; the button functionality is limited and does not allow you to quickly adjust the specified parameters, but the shortcomings are not critical.
EOS 5D
This Canon SLR camera is an advanced modification and was introduced in 2005. The equipment has a full-frame matrix with a resolution of 12.8 MP and a relatively lightweight body. According to current criteria, the range of the device in question is relatively small (1000-1600 units). Features of this version include the ability to use maximum ISO values with minimal noise. EOS 5D has an ergonomic body, an informative menu, and a monochrome additional screen. The shooting rate is 3 frames per second.
Parameters:
- Permit - 4368/2912 P.
- Megapixels - 12.8.
- Display diagonal - 2.5.
- Overall dimensions - 152/113/75 mm.
- Weight - 810 g.
5 DSR Body
Canon digital SLR cameras in this category are primarily designed for studio and advertising photography. The popularity of the camera in the commercial sector is due to the improved matrix (50.6 MP). In addition, the device in question differs fast response, however, it is inferior to its main competitors in terms of photosensitivity. This disadvantage is easily eliminated using pulsed
Features of the camera include the ability to shoot with crop factors of 1.3-1.6 plus the presence of a horizon level in the viewfinder. Photographers note that the model is great for the studio, but its capabilities are limited outdoors.
5D Mark IV Body
Canon's fourth generation DSLR cameras, the 5D series, have become even more advanced. The device with an increased number of megapixels to 31.7 was equipped with a Wi-Fi and GPS module. It is now possible to shoot in 4K format plus a touch screen.
The remaining characteristics are identical to its predecessor. Using improved optics, this camera is capable of shooting in almost any conditions, with operating ISO values up to 3200. The model is equipped with a metal case, reliably protected from moisture and dust. The camera is not afraid of light shocks, changeable weather, or radio interference. The modification has an excellent “rate of fire”; autofocus allows you to clearly capture the most dynamic scenes. Among the critical comments of users: small buffer size, not very fast processor.
EOS 7D Mark II
Canon digital SLR cameras in this series are perfect for reportage shooting and have a high frame capture speed. The latest modification reads up to 10 moments per second. In this case, frames are processed instantly, not limited by the number of pictures. With this indicator, a shutter whose service life has been increased to 200 thousand is quite relevant.
Autofocus is also featured in at its best with 65 focusing points in a cross configuration. There is a lever on the body that serves to adjust the lens, so as not to miss an important moment when working in a rapidly changing environment. There are various connectors and settings available to allow you to record scenes in high quality. Speed - up to 60 frames per second (Full HD). You can work with the camera in different weather conditions; the metal body is reliably protected from moisture and dust.
EOS 70D KIT
This series of Canon DSLR cameras has been at the forefront for several years now. The device has high quality characteristics, reliable protection from moisture and dust. ISO operates up to 1600 units, providing excellent images and pleasant color rendition. The shooting speed is 7 frames per second, the electronics processes the material without braking.
Automatic focusing takes into account 19 points. This is somewhat less than that of competitors, but is practically not reflected in the final result. The camera quickly captures the desired object with synchronous focusing. A simple menu, touch screen and excellent ergonomics are appreciated by both professionals and novice photographers. Additional benefit- the presence of a Wi-Fi module for aggregation with mobile devices.
600D
This camera was released in 2011. Its features include excellent ergonomics and ease of use. The DSLR replaced the EOS 550D. The popularity of the device is due to its reasonable price, the availability of various settings and modes, as well as excellent image quality.
The model is equipped with 9-point autofocus and a viewfinder with optics. In extended form, the ISO mode ranges from 100 to 12,800. There is support for controlling external flashes without wires.
EOS 100D KIT
Canon EOS 100D digital SLR cameras combine all the advantages of a digital camera and a DSLR. The weight of the device including the battery is just over 400 grams. When replacing a standard lens with a smaller prime lens, the device will take up minimal space, which is very convenient on hikes and long journeys.
The picture has a quality comparable to an amateur SLR camera, ISO - up to 800, the kit comes with a kit lens with a quiet STM “engine”, recognized by users the best option for recording. There is an option to focus by touching the screen. Compactness requires its sacrifices, expressed in cut-off button functionality and an awkward grip. Lack of ergonomics is compensated by an informative touch display, intuitive simple menu and reasonable price.
EOS 1200D KIT
The model continues the budget line. The price of the Canon 1200D KIT DSLR camera starts from 26 thousand rubles. Compared to its predecessor, the camera received an increased matrix resolution (up to 18 MP), Full HD shooting quality, as well as polymer linings on the body. Despite its affordable price, the device is equipped with all the basic options of a SLR camera. Consumers note the high build quality, the information content of the lens and the operating ISO up to 800.
Among the disadvantages: limited shooting speed (3 frames per second), non-rotating screen, lack of Wi-Fi and navigator modules. Such shortcomings do not particularly affect the creative process. Optimal combination price/quality rightfully puts this device in a leading position.
EOS 80D BODY
A new modification from Japanese manufacturers is actively conquering the market. The Canon EOS 80D DSLR camera differs from its full-frame counterparts only in the crop factor. compared to the previous model, it has increased to 24.2 MP, focus points - from 19 to 45. This allows for precise focusing, even when objects are located at the edges of the frame. Phase automatic focusing makes it possible to shoot high-quality photos and videos. The frame rate in Full HD mode has increased to 60 per second. The device is suitable for reporting work, with a shooting speed of 7 frames per second. Other innovations include: electronic level, Wi-Fi and NFC support. This is one of the best offers in the category of advanced DSLRs, taking into account the price-quality ratio.
EOS 700D KIT
A reliable amateur device will delight beginners with its versatility and balanced settings. Digital SLR Canon camera The 700D is perfect not only for shooting, but also for recording scenes. The device differs from analogues in automatic focus tracking and the presence of a kit lens with a low-noise STM motor. Its work does not in any way affect the sound quality when recording video. Full HD mode operates at 1280 x 720 (up to 30 frames per second).
Another significant advantage of this device is the rotating touch monitor. The buttons are located in a standard manner: on the body there are ISO keys and balance keys. white and serial mode. The shooting speed is 5 frames per second, but it will not be possible to work at this pace for a long time due to a weak exchange buffer.
The quality of the output image is one of the best in the budget category. The capabilities of the technology are complemented by ISO up to 1600, phase sensors, and fast automatic focus. To be fair, it is worth noting that the price is significantly higher than its analogues.
EOS 550D
Canon DSLR cameras of this series appeared in 2010. By and large, this is a stripped-down version of the 7D model. The device combines compactness and light weight with excellent functionality and a wide range of settings. The equipment is equipped with an 18 MP touch display and has an increased range of light sensitivity (up to 12,800 units). Auto focus supports 9 points. The crop factor corresponds to 1.6, the maximum shooting speed is 4 frames per second. Cost - about 36 thousand rubles.
Parameters:
- Number of pixels - 18.
- Resolution characteristics (pixels) - 5184/3456 (photo), 1920/1080 (video).
- Screen diagonal - 3.0.
- Dimensions - 129/97/62 mm.
- Weight - 530 g.
Canon EOS 1300D KIT DSLR camera
Another new product from Japanese manufacturers. The device belongs to the category of entry-level cameras. Let's try to figure out how this technique is inferior to its professional counterparts.
The DSLR is equipped with an 18 MP touch display. The type of screen is the same as that used primarily on semi-professional and amateur cameras. He has proven himself exclusively with positive side. The large dimensions of the sensor make it possible to ensure high-quality shooting from a kit lens. This is due to the fact that what larger area display, the higher the similar parameter of each pixel. This configuration has a positive effect on the quality of images.
In the Canon EOS 1300D DSLR camera, a DIGIC 4+ processor is responsible for image processing and operating speed. This is not the most modern chip (there are already 6 variations). However, it is worth remembering that we are talking about the youngest modification in the line of “DSLRs”, which does not particularly need a super-powerful processor. So why overpay?
The capabilities of this unit largely characterize the other parameters of the camera. For example, the “rate of fire” of the equipment is 3 frames per second, which doesn’t seem like much. But this is quite enough for an amateur photographer to capture flying jets.
Other "filling"
According to reviews, the Canon EOS 1300D DSLR camera is equipped with electronics that are quite sufficient for recording Full HD video at up to 30 frames per second. This opportunity allows you to capture not only quick sketches, but also creative masterpieces with further editing.
The automatic focusing system remains at a level identical to previous models. The viewfinder has the same nine points. This is a traditional parameter for amateur SLR cameras. It is possible to view on the monitor using the camera matrix.
Among the significant differences from its predecessors is the presence of a wireless control interface. The new modification received a Wi-Fi module with NFC parameters. This innovation allows for the aggregation of the camera with a mobile gadget for exchanging pictures. In addition, it is possible remote control camera from a smartphone with image control on the phone display.
Design
We will continue our review of Canon EOS 1300 SLR cameras by studying the interface and design of the device. The body part is completely made of high-quality matte plastic. There are rubber pads on the back panel and handle. In general, the exterior of the camera can be called ascetic, but not boring.
The main external difference between the model under consideration and expensive analogues- display. Its main parameters: resolution - 920,000 pixels, diagonal - 3 inches. Among the disadvantages noted by customers are clumsiness, a noticeable gap between the screen and the protective glass, which reduces the quality of viewing at an acute angle. The shortcomings do not critically affect the final result. There is no touch interface; functions and modes are adjusted using buttons.
Control
Nikon and Canon DSLR cameras of one technical group have similar controls. A control dial under the thumb is responsible for manual adjustment of exposure parameters. There are separate keys for the following options: ISO, autofocus, shutter operation, white saturation, flash pop-up. All options can be activated with one touch.
You can select the auto focus point using the provided button after pressing the key under your thumb. This solution slightly reduces the speed of controlling equipment during reportage shooting.
Most settings can be changed via the on-screen menu, activated by the Q button on the rear panel. The same key is used to configure operating parameters in Live Yiew mode. In general, the interface and controls are as clear as possible: first, the entire list of settings appears on the display, and after selecting a specific window, additional tips are displayed.
I am constantly updating and adding to this article. Last time The article was edited on June 13, 2018 (added new names for 2000D, 4000D). Ask your questions in the comments (my website ‘Radozhiva’ does not require absolutely any registration, and you don’t have to indicate your e-mail or name).
Every day in the comments on my blog ‘Radozhiva’ the same question is heard - ‘ Which Canon DSLR camera should I buy?‘. In this article I will share my thoughts on this matter. Please note that the article is heavily filled with subjective factors, since there are a lot of little things to consider when choosing a camera. I work as a professional photographer, and also review photographic equipment, I shot with almost all Canon and Nikon SLR cameras, one might say, I ate dog with these cameras and lenses.
All Canon digital SLR cameras can be divided into 3 classes:
- Amateur- these cameras are aimed at people who just need to get high quality photo without delving into the intricacies and settings of the camera. Most often, amateur cameras are best suited for people who are not involved in photography professionally, but just want good camera for home, leisure, travel, family, nature, etc., so that the camera is lightweight, easy to operate and inexpensive. Actually, Canon has the largest range of cameras in this segment.
- Advanced amateur- have advanced functionality with a large number specific settings that can take a long time to figure out. These cameras are suitable for advanced hobbyists who already know how to navigate the settings, or want a good potential for mastering photography skills. These cameras are also noticeably more expensive and heavier. Distinctive feature advanced amateur cameras is the presence of an additional monochrome display on the top panel of the camera, which helps to quickly access a number of settings.
- Professional- these cameras are designed for people who are engaged in photography professionally, know a lot about photography and are not afraid of manual settings. Typically, such cameras have a much better body and functionality. A distinctive feature of such cameras is the absence of a built-in flash (for pros it is not particularly important). Usually these are full-format cameras or cameras with Kf=1.3. Also, cameras in the highest price range have a combo body with a special additional handle that helps hold the camera in portrait (vertical) orientation. I specifically do not touch on this class of cameras in this article, because there are a million and one nuances when choosing professional equipment, and professionals often themselves know what kind of camera they need.
The camera is complicated technical device, but technology does not stand still. I indicated on the sign your camera rating based on the release date of the camera and its technical characteristics. I think that now the best amateur camera is Canon 800D, this can be seen from the plate below.
As for an advanced amateur camera, in my opinion, the full-format Canon 6D and Canon 6D Mark II are very interesting option. If you don’t want to mess with full frame, then an excellent advanced Canon amateur camera is the Canon 7D Mark II.
Rating | Model | Year | MP | Frames per second | Focus points | Video | DisplayPay |
1 | Canon 7D Mark II | 2014 | 20,2 | 10 | 65 (65 k, Dual Pixel AF) | ||
2 | 80D | 2016 | 24 | 7 | 45 (45 k, Dual Pixel AF) | Full HD 60fps, stereo sound, tracking focus | 3-inch, 1,040,000 pixels |
3 | 77D | 2017 | 24 | 6 | 45 (45 k, Dual Pixel AF) | Full HD 60fps, stereo sound, tracking focus | 3-inch, 1,040,000 pixels |
4 | 2013 summer | 20,2 | 7 | 19 (19 k, Dual Pixel AF) | Full HD 30fps, stereo sound, tracking focus | 3-inch, 1,040,000 pixels, rotating and touch | |
5 | 2009 autumn | 17,9 | 8 | 19 (19 k) | Full HD 30fps, mono sound | ||
6 | 2010 summer | 17,9 | 5,3 | 9 (9 k) | Full HD 30fps, mono sound | 3-inch, 1,040,000 pixels, rotating | |
7 | 50D | 2008 summer | 15,1 | 6,3 | 9 (9 k) | LiveView only | 3-inch, 920,000 pixels |
8 | 2007 summer | 10,1 | 6,5 | 9 (9 k) | LiveView only | 3-inch, 230,000 pixels | |
9 | 2006 winter | 8,2 | 5 | 9 (1 k) | No | 2.5-inch, 230,000 pixels | |
10 | 2004 summer | 8,2 | 5 | 9 (1 k) | No | 1.8 inches, 118,000 pixels | |
10 | 2003 winter | 6,3 | 3 | 7 (1k) | No | 1.8 inches, 118,000 pixels | |
12 | D60 | 2002 summer | 6,3 | 3 | 3 (1k) | No | 1.8 inches, 118,000 pixels |
13 | 2000 spring | 3,1 | 3 | 3 (1k) | No | 1.8 inches, 114,000 pixels |
I did not include the Canon 20Da and 60Da cameras in the table because of their specific features, which are of little interest to the average amateur photographer. If you are limited on funds, then a good option for an advanced amateur Canon camera is.
Typically, cameras of advanced amateur and professional classes are sold separately from the lens, such a sales kit is called a 'body', and when a camera is sold with a lens, it is called a 'kit' (this is how cameras from the amateur segment are most often sold), and the lens is included in the kit supplied is called a 'whale lens' (sometimes shortened and called simply a "whale", which creates confusion - both the kit and just the lens from such a kit are called the same word).
Attention: You can’t take photographs with just a “body” camera; you must always take photographs with a lens :)
Important: Usually, if you buy a camera along with a kit lens (the so-called kit kit), then such a kit will cost less than buying a camera and the same lens separately.
The choice of other lenses requires a separate large article, but in addition to the standard (universal kit) lens, I recommend getting a fast discrete lens. This lens cannot zoom, but has a higher zoom than a “whale” lens. This will allow you to easily shoot in low-light conditions, control depth of field (create), create a ‘bokeh effect’, get brighter and rich colors in the photographs.