The trend towards optimizing photographic equipment gives many advantages for users, but along with them, the disadvantages of such models inevitably appear. These include limited functionality and very average shooting performance. The reverse approach is demonstrated by the example of system cameras, which combine the advantages of compacts and SLRs. But during operation, much will also depend on the specific model.
Features of system cameras
For lovers of photography, today there are several areas of choice, the main of which are smartphones, digital compact cameras and SLRs. And if the first two groups do not suit sophisticated amateur photographers due to the poor quality of images, then mirror models are large in size and have complex functionality, which is also not suitable for every user. The output could bea system camera that is modest in size and provides a truly high-quality result, in some parameters even close to a professional level. For example, Sony system cameras in some modifications weigh only 300-400 g, fitting in clothing pockets. In terms of shooting possibilities, their modular design allows you to assemble a photographic tool for almost any task. For example, the basic equipment can be expanded with a lens, lens, microphone and flash. And this is only a part of the possibilities that distinguish the system models of cameras. Now it’s worth taking a closer look at what exactly the leading manufacturers of this equipment offer.
Sony Mirrorless Cameras
In system cameras of the Japanese company Sony, two types of matrices are used:
- Amateur APS-C. Compared to standard 4/3 format modules, it is 1.6 times larger, and compared to 1/2.3 compact matrices, it is 13 times larger.
- Premium 35mm Full Frame.
In other words, Sony system cameras are equipped with two lens options to choose from, both of which provide an E-mount. As for additional features, almost all models of this standard receive wireless NFC and Wi-Fi modules that allow you to control device remotely from a smartphone and transfer photo and video materials to other devices. APS-C consumer models also feature optical image stabilization.
Sony Alpha A7 Kit
This modification is considered the world's first representative of a system mirrorless camera designed for the mass consumer. The device is equipped with a 35 mm matrix, the resolution of which is 24.3 megapixels. The device belongs to professional photographic equipment, which is confirmed not only by the high price level, but also by the wide dynamic spectrum, low noise level and natural colors - the advantages that characterize full-frame shooting. We equipped the Sony Alpha system camera of this version and fast combined autofocus. To integrate the viewfinder, microphone and flash, a bracket with a sync contact is provided. In the basic kit there is a zoomed lens with a range of 28-70 mm. Shooting speed is 2.5fps.
Sony Alpha A7 II Body
The second generation of Sony's full-frame mirrorless camera, which retains the same basic processor, sensor and autofocus system. But added a new 5-axis stabilization. This inclusion eliminated the effect of "shake" when shooting on weight in low light conditions. According to users, the quality of close-ups has also improved, regardless of the type of lens. Also, the system camera is distinguished by high-quality video recording in FullHD formats at 60 fps and XAVC S. However, the advantages in the performance of this function are still attributed to the A7S modification, which works confidently with 4K video.
Fujifilm System Cameras
Another Japanese giant in the photography market, which inThe mirrorless segment focuses on mechanical controls. This gives the models a special look of retro cameras, reminiscent of classic film cameras. In particular, the design has dials for switching shooting modes, and on lenses of the XF series, aperture adjustment rings are provided. Moreover, Fujifilm system cameras do not basically have image stabilizers - this function fully applies to lenses. In order to expand the possibilities for a modular layout, the developers endowed the devices with the ability to combine with Leica lenses, but only through an adapter to the M mount. Wi-Fi is provided for wireless communication with other devices.
Fujifilm X-A2 camera
The lowest-tier model in Fujifilm's mirrorless segment, pluses include modest size and ergonomic controls. Despite the average technical characteristics, material of sufficiently high quality can be extracted from this device. This will be facilitated by a wide range of shooting modes (again with a manual switch), an optional flash connection and a complete lens with a range of 16-50 mm. If we talk about the shortcomings, then the system camera of this modification is equipped with a matrix with a resolution of only 16 megapixels and does not have a viewfinder. Accordingly, you should prepare for positioning frames through the LCD screen. Although the 75% flip-out design of the display itself makes it convenient for taking self-portraits.
Fujifilm Model F X-T10 16-50
Also camerabudget level, provided with a 16-megapixel matrix, but with a wider functional toolkit. The company used an innovative hybrid auto focus technology that "leads" the subject even in conditions of active movement of the body. The frame rate of the F X-T10 16-50 system camera is only 8 fps, so this choice is more suitable for a beginner amateur photographer. What it lacks in performance, however, is made up for by a fast 0.005-second latency viewfinder, flip-out LCD screen, and built-in flash. And again, it is worth emphasizing the well-implemented design in the style of devices of the last century, which distinguishes this line from more technological competitors.
Olympus System Cameras
Without fail, all cameras of this company are equipped with a stabilizer and a Wi-Fi module with the ability to control via a smartphone. Premium versions also get 14-42mm zoom lenses for long shots. They support Olympus mirrorless cameras and accessory devices such as the same flash, viewfinder and lens, but this addition requires some tweaking. Connection problems are not uncommon, resulting in a camera system error like No camera head. This means that the camera head is not connected - most likely, the connection was made with the wrong adapters.
Also, Olympus is famous for its joint developments with other manufacturers of photographic equipment. The most notable model in this niche was the Micro 4/3, overwhich specialists from Panasonic also worked. The device received a 35 mm matrix with a resolution of 16 megapixels. This mirrorless camera, combined with the right lenses, delivers excellent image quality in a compact size, according to users.
Panasonic models
Of course, the Panasonic company contains in the range and completely "their" development of system cameras. This segment represents the DMC series with several versions. The base is Lumix DMC-GF7K, designed for beginner amateur photographers. The device is provided with a swivel display, accurate and fast autofocus system Contrast AF, built-in flash and Wi-Fi module. That is, in terms of basic functionality, this is the best entry-level system camera, but there is also a more advanced modification - DMC-G7K. This camera supports 4K video shooting at 25 fps with a matrix resolution of 8 megapixels. But the creators pay special attention to the high-contrast DFD autofocus, which captures objects in 0.06 seconds, allowing you to perform 6 frames / sec in continuous focus mode. This system works only with branded Panasonic lenses.
Nikon and Canon models
These manufacturers of photographic equipment occupy a leading position in the segment of SLR cameras, and the niche of system devices attracts them much less. However, they also have interesting offers.
For connoisseurs of mirrorless cameras, Nikon has developed a compact model 1 J5 Kit, an inch matrix of which at the same time hasresolution of 20.8 megapixels. Moreover, almost a pocket camera is capable of shooting 4K video, and in autofocus mode it takes up to 20 shots per second. In terms of functional equipment, a high level is also maintained - NFC and Wi-Fi wireless communication modules are provided, a built-in flash and an LCD display with a 180-degree turn mechanism. Only a wide-angle lens with a focus of 10–30 mm will disappoint sophisticated photographers.
Present on the market of photographic equipment and Canon system cameras, the most prominent representative of which is the EOS M3 Kit. The model is equipped with a 24.2 megapixel APS-C matrix and a folding screen, and optionally you can connect an electronic viewfinder and an external flash. Management is implemented both in manual mode and through built-in Wi-Fi and NFC modules.
Samsung Galaxy NX camera
The Korean manufacturer has focused on the intelligent capabilities of the camera, providing the model Galaxy NX OS "Android". The design of the device also turned out to be unusual - the design is made in a large, but flat form factor, which is praised for its ease of physical handling. The increase in size relative to previous versions of the NX is due to the use of a 4.77-inch LCD display. In terms of shooting capabilities, the high quality of images is provided by a 21.6 MP APS-C matrix, an electronic viewfinder and autofocus. Communication capabilities are implemented through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. HDMI and DLNA interfaces are provided for communication with video and audio equipment.
Through the Android platformthe Galaxy NX system camera also gained the ability to program photo settings via the iFunction option. In particular, such parameters as light sensitivity, shutter speed and aperture, white balance, etc. lend themselves to fast auto-correction. What is more remarkable, the device supports the GPS navigation system, and with a SIM card installed, it can work with SMS-kami. In general, it turned out to be a high-tech smart device that significantly expanded the functional range of system photographic equipment without lowering the basic quality of shooting in its class.
Reviews on system cameras
Mirrorless camera owners still rate their performance differently. They include the obvious advantages of design possibilities, the advantages of physical ergonomics, as well as the inclusion of more advanced control and communication tools. All this makes system models more attractive compared to SLR devices. But on the other hand, this technique is often criticized for problems with finding a suitable lens and, in general, accessories, since manufacturers mainly focus on their components, with rare exceptions, as in the case of Fujifilm. On the other hand, it is the competent selection of optics that largely ensures the proper level of shooting quality.
Reviews regarding the cost are also ambiguous. If budget models with 16 megapixel matrices can be purchased for 15-20 thousand rubles, then the best system camera from the Sony Alpha line will cost 80-90 thousand rubles. And to thisversion will have to buy some components for full-fledged operation, at least at the level of the capabilities of a SLR assembly of the same level. Another thing is that the quality of pictures due to the APS-C matrix will be higher, which is also confirmed by users.
