Cameras have long been firmly established in our lives; there are more and more of these products on the shelves of household appliance stores every year. Unfortunately, most users of such devices have no idea what parameters should be used to select cameras. Because of this, they are disappointed with their purchase.
One of the most important points that influence the final quality of the picture is resolution. It is measured in megapixels and is considered by most users to be the determining factor when purchasing a digital device. However, there is a very cunning trick hidden here, since the maximum possible resolution of the photographs is indicated, but they usually forget to indicate that many other parameters also influence the quality - the quality of the lens, the size of the matrix. In order to obtain photographs of 10x15 cm format, a product in a cheap price category with a resolution of about 3 megapixels is quite suitable,
Another important criterion that influences the choice of such equipment is the matrix and its quality. It is a special light-sensitive plate where the pixels that form the image quality are located. The larger the matrix size, the more light will fall on the pixel, and accordingly, the picture will turn out to be of better and better quality.
A matrix parameter such as light sensitivity is also very important. The higher this parameter is, the better. You can check how high-quality the pictures are quite simply: take several pictures, then photograph a completely white or completely black background. Then you should look at the resulting photographs; there should be no white dots on a black background, and no black dots on a white background. If such an effect is noticeable, then you should refuse to purchase such a device.
The lens aperture will affect the brightness and color saturation of the resulting images. This parameter determines how wide its aperture opens and how much light enters the sensor. The lens also affects parameters such as zoom or magnification. You should not choose a focal length that is too long, as this can cause a problem: everything that the photographer is going to shoot will not fit into the frame.
When creating our review, we tried to take into account all the key parameters that in one way or another affect the quality of photographs. In addition, we took into account reviews from users and experts in the field who expressed their opinions on the models included in our rating of the best cameras. The price-quality ratio of this device has not been ignored either. We hope that our rating will be useful to you and will help you choose the most suitable product model.
The best digital cameras of 2019
10. Canon PowerShot G1 Mark II
This is a fairly compact model with high performance, perfect for both beginners and experienced photographers. In terms of its overall dimensions, this model is slightly inferior to SLR cameras; its processor has a high clock frequency, which ensures high performance of the device. First of all, it is worth noting that this model is characterized by a matrix of significant size, and it also has a sensor with a diagonal of one and a half inches. The number of megapixels is not too large, however, as we have already found out, this parameter is not key.
The lens is non-replaceable, has a high aperture ratio and five-fold magnification. The focal length ranges from 24 to 120 mm. The lens has an optical stabilizer, which makes this camera perfect for shooting in low light conditions. The body is made of magnesium alloys and fits nicely in the hand. It is waterproof, so you can even shoot underwater. The design has a Wi-Fi module.
Advantages:
- Compact dimensions;
- Excellent build quality;
- The clarity of the resulting images;
- Shockproof housing.
Flaws:
- One battery charge is enough for approximately 300-400 shots;
- High price.
9. Fujifilm X30
A very convenient digital camera, stylized as a classic film model. It has a fairly capacious battery, which is enough for about 500 shots; it is recharged using a USB cable. Charging can be done in the device itself; there is no need to remove the battery, which is very convenient when traveling. There are as many as 12 shooting modes, with both manual and automatic settings provided. On the body there is a special slot for installing an external flash. On the back panel, almost all the space is taken up by the touch screen. It is retractable and equipped with a tilting mechanism, which allows you to shoot with your arms outstretched, and the photographer will have a clear view of everything that happens on the display.
As with most other models, there is a built-in Wi-Fi module that allows you to connect with other digital equipment such as smartphones, computers or laptops. The viewfinder here is electronic, which greatly facilitates the operation of the device. There is a special button for video recording, and there is a jack for connecting a remote control or an external microphone.
Advantages:
- Good detail of the pictures;
- High-quality assembly;
- High shooting speed.
Flaws:
- In automatic modes, the white balance is disturbed;
- Moving objects in semi-darkness or twilight cannot be clearly captured even with a high-quality flash.
8. Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX 100
The body of the device is made of aluminum alloys, so you need to be careful with the camera, it is sensitive to falls. The overall dimensions are not too large - this model will fit perfectly even in one hand. The build quality is excellent even though the product is made in China. There are no backlashes on the body and no extraneous squeaks occur even after several years of operation. There is a lamp on the front of the body that illuminates the automatic focus, and there are levers on the lens that are responsible for selecting focus and the aspect ratio of the frame. On the back of the device there is a large display, above it there is a digital viewfinder, near it there is a proximity sensor and diopter adjustment. To the right of the display there are buttons for viewing and menu settings.
At the bottom of the case there are compartments for installing a battery and memory card, connectors for a tripod and a small speaker. On the right end side there is a plastic plug, under which there is a connector for connecting USB and HDMI cables. The focal length range is from 24 to 75 mm, the matrix is large, and the depth of field due to this combination is simply excellent. In low light, very clear images are obtained. In video mode, it can produce up to 11 frames per second, recording is done in 4K or Full HD format.
Advantages:
- High picture quality when shooting video;
- A large number of individual settings;
- An excellent stabilizer.
Flaws:
- Poor focusing in manual format;
- The housing is not protected from dust penetration.
7. Leica Q (Typ 116)
This model is equipped with a full-frame matrix with a resolution of 24 Megapixels. There is an automatic mode that selects the most suitable shooting modes for existing lighting conditions, and it can be turned off and all settings can be made manually using the shutter speed dial and two rings - aperture and focus. The model is also equipped with several more buttons and a four-button joystick for more convenient menu navigation. The camera turns on very quickly - it takes less than a second, so you can quickly get an interesting shot. Auto focus is also quite fast, and the same applies to focusing in manual mode.
The lens has excellent color reproduction and good sharpness; the picture looks quite decent, largely thanks to special software correction of all parameters. The product shoots in various formats - their choice depends on how these images will be used in the future: one mode is provided for software processing, and another for ordinary viewing and printing. The display on the back of the camera has excellent color reproduction. The electronic viewfinder has high resolution.
Advantages:
- Very high image quality;
- Comfortable ergonomic shape, fits easily in the hand;
- Excellent stabilizer;
- All automatic settings can be adjusted manually.
Flaws:
- Weak battery;
- Sometimes it's difficult to set up a Wi-Fi connection;
- Auto focus works worse than on DSLR cameras.
6. Canon PowerShot SX410 IS
One of the most compact models in our ranking of the best digital cameras. The aperture is in the range from 3.5 to 6.3 - this parameter will be quite enough for shooting in the dark; the optical zoom can reach 40x magnification. Focal length variable 4.3-172 m. The lens is closed with a spring-loaded cap. On the bottom side there is a socket for mounting the device on a tripod. All main functional buttons are located on the upper right part of the case. On the button responsible for releasing the shutter there is a ring responsible for magnification. There is a small microphone at the back above the large display. All main connectors are covered with a rubberized lid.
In economy mode, the battery is enough for 250 photos, in normal mode – for 185 frames, there is a slot for installing a memory card, since the camera does not have its own internal memory. The display resolution is not too high, only 230 thousand pixels, the lens shutter speed is adjustable from 15 to 1/4000 seconds. The camera has small overall dimensions and fits comfortably in your hand.
Advantages:
- Excellent photo and video quality;
- Convenient 40x zoom.
Flaws:
- Low battery capacity;
- Non-standard shape - difficult to find a case;
- The plastic case is sensitive to physical influences.
5.Canon Digital IXUS 220HS
Another fairly compact model, which, despite its modest size, is distinguished by high performance characteristics - a 12-pixel matrix with back illumination, a wide-angle lens, which is usually not found in such compact devices. In addition, there is optical image stabilization, and there is a 2.6-inch display on the rear panel. Continuous shooting is identical in performance to the best SLR cameras. Video shooting is done in Full HD format, sound is recorded in stereo format, there is an HDMI connector.
Back illumination of the matrix allows you to increase the amount of light entering it. When you select continuous shooting, 3.4 frames are taken per second. The quality of the images is excellent, largely due to the good color rendition of the lens. The model is housed in a plastic case, so you should handle this camera with care: it is sensitive to falls.
Advantages:
- Small overall dimensions;
- Durable model;
- Preparation for shooting takes a minimum of time;
- Japanese assembly, which in itself guarantees its quality.
Flaws:
- Plastic body;
- The duration of one video file does not exceed 10 minutes.
4. Nikon Coolpix P900
This model is perfect for photographing wildlife, including in macro mode. The camera is equipped with an 83x optical zoom, allowing you to capture even small details that are invisible to the naked human eye. The product turns on almost instantly - it takes less than 0.5 seconds. The design includes an optical vibration reduction system made using the latest Dual DetectOptical VR technology, which completely eliminates blurring.
Advantages:
- 83x zoom;
- Support for stereo sound when recording video;
- Availability of many additional modules.
Flaws:
- Not touch screen;
- When performing continuous shooting, the memory buffer is small;
- Large dimensions for a compact device.
3. Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX30
This is one of the best digital cameras housed in a waterproof body. It is highly durable, resistant to dust and low temperatures. Such a device will be an excellent solution for those who prefer active recreation. The body is metal, the main control of the camera is carried out via a touch display located on the back of the device. There are several standard buttons, they are responsible only for the most basic functions - switching to video recording mode, turning on or off, and so on. On the end parts of the product there are connectors for connecting a USB cable and memory card. Together with the battery, the product weighs only 140 grams.
Operating the device with gloves is not very convenient, since the sensor will not immediately respond to touch. You should be careful with the display, as if worn without a case, it will develop scratches after a few weeks. The matrix is designed for 18.2 megapixels, due to which it is possible to achieve excellent color rendition. The camera does not behave very well in low light conditions, but it can be immersed in water to a depth of 10 meters, and it is not afraid of falling from a height of up to one and a half meters. There is an LED lamp that allows for improved macro photography quality. The model turned out to be productive: it takes less than one second to prepare for use, and focusing in automatic mode also works very quickly.
Advantages:
- Compact overall dimensions;
- High quality shooting in any mode;
- Availability of a touch display;
- Waterproof housing.
Flaws:
- There are no Wi-Fi and GPS modules;
- Weak battery;
- The screen is prone to damage.
2. Leica X-U (Typ 113)
The model belongs to protected cameras that perfectly withstand exposure to low temperatures, falls from heights, and immersion in water, although this in no way affected the appearance of this device. The matrix has a resolution of 16.5 megapixels, the focal length is 23 mm. Light sensitivity can be adjusted if necessary, the same applies to the shutter speed - the maximum setting is 1/2000 of a second. In burst mode, the camera produces 5 frames per second. On the back there is a three-inch diagonal LCD screen with a resolution of 920 thousand dots. SD memory cards are used to store images and videos.
The battery is quite capacious - one full charge will be enough for 450 shots. The camera turned out to be heavy - 635 grams, so holding it with one hand will be very uncomfortable. The lens is not sensitive to glare, color rendition is accurate, the same can be said about the detail of frames, even when there is a lack of natural light.
Advantages:
- Excellent build quality, like other cameras of this brand;
- Good lens, insensitive to glare;
- Convenient controls that even a novice photographer can understand;
- It is possible to record video in Full HD format.
Flaws:
- You won’t be able to customize the controls;
- Buffer memory is small;
- High price.
1. Nikon Coolpix AW 130
This model has become a leader in our review of the best digital cameras due to a number of useful functions and additional features. It has all the necessary built-in modules, separate buttons to control them, as well as a water- and dust-proof case that allows you to immerse the device in water to a depth of 30 meters. There is a convenient bulge on the right side of the camera for one-handed grip. The lens is framed with a special hood that will protect it if the camera falls. There is an NFC module, thanks to which the camera will quickly connect with any other device.
The camera allows you to take beautiful pictures both in bright light and in low light, and in the latter case it is possible to photograph the subject with excellent detail. You can get sharper shots, but this will negatively affect color reproduction. The camera has an excellent price-quality ratio, which largely determined its leadership in our review.
Advantages:
- Reasonable cost;
- High build quality;
- Stunning images with natural color reproduction.
Flaws:
- The latches are too tight.
In custody
Technological progress has given the camera and Instagram to everyone. The camera of almost any smartphone is now capable of providing “Instagram” quality photos. However, what about those who are already short of 20 megapixels on the head of a pin? That's what we'll talk about.
Over time, any amateur photographer striving for development comes up against the limit of the technical capabilities of his camera. Previously, these were point-and-shoot cameras, now these are smartphone cameras, which can now be called full-fledged successors to compacts: the same sensors, the same optics, the same software. But even just shooting landscapes for Instagram, over time you realize that somewhere there are not enough natural colors, light, and details. A relatively experienced photographer can even tell the difference between a smartphone photo and a good camera photo on Instagram. As a rule, the first thing that catches your eye is the detail in the pictures. This has become especially noticeable due to the rapid increase in smartphone screen resolution. There are still plenty of smartphones for artistic everyday mini-masterpieces, but if you want to grow, you will have to move on.
So, first of all, let's note what we are unlikely to need.
Compacts, they are also soap dishes
Switching from a smartphone to a compact makes no sense, since these are absolutely equivalent categories. Differences like operating speed, battery capacity and optical zoom are so insignificant that they are not worth clinging to. And those who firmly know why they need a point-and-shoot device and not a smartphone have already made their choice.
| Canon IXUS 132 |
There is a small category of compacts that have a huge zoom. In size, they are much inferior to smartphones, approaching DSLRs, and in terms of practicality... If you think that a large zoom is necessary, just go to the nearest store and look at these focal lengths with your own eyes. Impressive? Then try to imagine in what situation they would really be useful to you, excluding ornithology and voyeurism in advance. If you think that you have found the one, take a closer look at the “inch” type - they have a relatively large 1-inch diagonal sensor and good enough optics to work with this sensor. Still in doubt? Then try to photograph something right there, in the store, handheld, at the maximum focal length. Yes, you will get such pictures in 90% of cases. Now you are ready to move on.
Just ten years ago, purchasing a not-so-expensive DSLR made a person not only a photographer, but also a professional in the eyes of the inexperienced public. “The camera is big, it probably costs a lot, it’s unlikely that its owner doesn’t know how to take pictures” - such thoughts made it possible to hire a photographer for a wedding inexpensively and, as a result, get photos of average, and sometimes terrifying, quality. But demand gives birth to wedding photographers in droves.
Nowadays you won’t surprise anyone with a DSLR, or even scare them away. Large, expensive DSLRs in the hands of unprofessional photographers cause bewilderment and even laughter among people who have little knowledge. Cool DSLRs are now often rented, because it’s hardly advisable to buy this entire zoo for a lot of money just for a couple of shoots. In addition, you need to understand well what and why to take. A good quality DSLR with decent optics has never been cheap, it has never been light or compact, but it was once the best tool for photography. Since then, little has changed in terms of price and weight, but in terms of shooting quality, DSLRs have given up a large share of the market to mirrorless cameras, especially in the mid-price range and the amateur segment. They lost their main trump card - focusing speed - when manufacturers began to build phase sensors directly into the sensor, and contrast focus has never been a strong point of DSLRs.
To summarize: if you want a large, pleasant body that fits well in your hand, an optical viewfinder that you can look through even when the battery is completely dead, the sound of a clicking shutter and the oak mechanics of a Kalashnikov assault rifle, take a DSLR. You will feel like photo-Rambo, like the guys in the video below. For everything else there is a UPC.
Mirrorless cameras
Mirrorless cameras are a segment that has been developing for a long time and has reached certain heights. As you might guess, they are distinguished from DSLRs only by the absence of a mirror. But this serious evolutionary step subsequently forced mirrorless cameras to get rid of many more rudiments. As a result, we got fast and compact cameras, the quality of shooting is not inferior to DSLRs.
If you want to improve the quality of your photos so that the photos on Instagram are not just “okay”, but actually look cool, you definitely need to learn how to take photographs, control the light, mentally look at the composition through the viewfinder in order to immediately see the frame through the “eyes” of the camera or have talent for this. If you already have all this, you need to move in the direction of technical growth, and a mirrorless camera will help you with this.
What tangible changes will such a transition bring?
Large sensor. First of all, a large sensor will allow you to display a lot of detail in your pictures, and this will be noticeable even in miniatures. Good optics will add not only light to the frame, but also halftones, which will make the pictures more vibrant and pleasant (I would like to say, they will become more saturated and bright, but, in this case, this is not entirely the correct terminology). Thanks to the technical equipment and the internal program of the camera, you do not have to resort to various tricks, which often simply spoil the image. Be careful, because after this your old photos may seem cloudy and not sharp enough.
Manual mode. Now, if you suddenly feel that the automatic is poorly exposing the frame (you want it lighter or darker), you can always switch to manual mode and do as you see. Yes, some smartphones also have a manual mode, and it is becoming more common, but in most cases it is only an illusion of choice.
Quality of software processing. You tried not to take pictures with your smartphone at night (and if you did, God will be your judge). Now you can afford this luxury. And even long exposures. But don't forget about the tripod. Also, immediately determine the photosensitivity ceiling for your camera - up to what ISO the pictures turn out normal. It is, of course, better to watch in RAW, but JPG will be even clearer. Take several shots in room lighting at different ISOs. As soon as you notice that the colors have become somehow dull, dirty, or even completely disgusting, and small details have blurred - this is the bottom, or rather, the ceiling of light sensitivity. Take a step back, or better yet, two, and try not to go into these areas again. The settings usually have a limitation on light sensitivity.
Full RAW. Now we've reached RAW. Of course, a JPG on a UPC will already look much better than a smartphone, but if you want even more freedom and opportunities, you’ll have to start processing RAW. There is a little secret for beginners: if you shoot landscapes in RAW with a fairly wide dynamic range (in simple terms, this is when on the camera display you get either one half of the frame too dark or the other half of the frame too light), you can take a photo without exposure by turning the exposure meter, and then in the RAW editor, pull out the details from the shadows using the “Highlight and Shadow” sliders. This way you can get quite HDR. Actually, this is exactly what smartphones do, only they take several frames with different exposures.
Surely some people have a question, which mirrorless camera should I get? Here you need to proceed first of all from the budget - this will help narrow down the choice. If your budget is unlimited, of course you should look towards full-frame (sensor size 36×24 mm) and medium format (44×33 mm) mirrorless cameras (Sony a7, Fujifilm GFX,), but you need to understand that these are already professional tools, so they are not Not only do they provide very high quality, but they are also expensive and weigh a lot.
Now let's come down to earth and look at cheaper mirrorless cameras, namely with a crop factor of 1.5 (sensor size approximately 24x16 mm). This includes Sony Alpha, Fujifilm X, Canon M, Samsung NX, etc. Next, you need to evaluate the optics fleet and its cost. Fujifilm probably has the most diverse lineup at the moment.
Next is the micro 4/3 format (sensor size approximately 18x14 mm), which has gained considerable fame due to its huge range of optics and compactness. Some people think that micro 4/3 is already significantly inferior in quality to crop 1.5, while others, on the contrary, believe that it has many advantages, but in the end it all remains a matter of taste.
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| Olympus Pen E-PL8 Olympus Pen E-PL8 Kit Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3 Body |
Perhaps the main advantage of the micro 4/3 format is that the optics of this system are universal, regardless of the manufacturer. That is, you can easily put a Panasonic lens on an Olympus camera, and nothing will happen to you for it, it will even work like a native one.
I don’t want to consider the category of mirrorless “inches” (sensor size approximately 13x9 mm) like the Nikon One system, because as an inch you can take the Sony RX100, and it will be more compact and more practical (I won’t say “cheaper”, since the latest versions of the “inches” "They cost like a good UPC). And you won’t lose at all in terms of quality.
As practice shows, many people do not need to change the lens on their camera, in which case a mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses loses its meaning, and such super-compacts come to the fore. People come to such cameras after a long search, when the goals, genres, and means are already clear. Most modern smartphones have a lens with an equivalent focal length of 28mm. This is practically the same as the RX1, if we compare it in terms of the amount that fits into the frame, but it is significantly lower in quality.
It also happens that some photographers return to shooting with their phones when they realize that this is enough for them, and 90% of Instagram followers still don’t see the difference. Taking pictures with your phone can be quite cool, but this requires either luck or good technical equipment. We've all seen cool portraits and landscapes taken with an iPhone, but many probably don't even realize how much technology is left behind the scenes.
Thus, if you have been shooting with a smartphone for a long time, then you have a rough idea of your interests. This means that choosing a camera for the desired tasks (landscape, portrait) will not be difficult. To understand which camera is best for you, read our reviews, look at the pictures, and be sure to hold it in your hands before purchasing. It is important.
P.S. In the preview post, the experimental standalone lens is simply a lens with an inch sensor built into it. For full operation, you need to connect a smartphone. It was a funny thing, but useless. Although Sony was just trying to answer our question from the title.
Selecting a Camera- often a difficult task. So how is it right? choose a camera? To begin with, let's define the structure and operating principle of a digital camera and the basic terms - for a better understanding of what the modern photo industry offers us.
It would seem that there is a huge selection of cameras, from different manufacturers, with different characteristics. You just have to go to the store and buy. But everything is not so simple; sometimes choosing a good camera is very difficult. We invite you to read our article on how to choose the right camera
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Light from the photographed object passing through the lens creates an image on the surface of the electro-optical converter - a matrix that turns it into electrical signals processed by the camera processor. The processor creates and writes a file to the memory card, which can subsequently be played both on the display of the camera itself and in external devices for obtaining images. In addition, the processor controls all camera systems. Dosing the amount of light (exposure) passing through the lens is done using the shutter, which opens for a given time (shutter speed), and the aperture, which regulates the intensity of the transmitted light.
It is a complex structured plate of semiconductor material, divided into millions of photocells sensitive to the primary colors: red, green, and blue (RGB). The location of these elements - pixels - can be different, corresponding to several systems, one of which is presented in the figure.
This is the so-called RGGB scheme, developed by Eastman Kodak employee Dr. Bryce Bayer, in which the number of green-sensitive pixels is twice as large as each of the others.
At the output of the matrix, an image signal is obtained containing 1/2 green and 1/4 each red and blue, which most closely matches human perception of colors. The number of photocells contained in the matrix generally determines the number of image elements - pixels in the resulting picture. Therefore, the greater the number of pixels the matrix contains, the higher the detail of the image. This is achieved by increasing the size of the matrix or increasing the pixel density while reducing their size. The range of light intensities perceived by the matrix (dynamic range) will determine the range of tonalities and color shades of the image. These factors, as well as the noise level, mainly determine the quality of the matrix.
Camera matrix
Matrices of different sizes can have the same number of pixels, and the ratio of the level of the useful signal to the level of inevitably present noise will be better for a larger matrix. This is especially noticeable when shooting in low light conditions, so the pursuit of megapixels is not always justified, and a camera with an 8MP low-noise matrix can surpass a 12-16MP camera in image quality.
Therefore, when choosing a camera It is worth considering the size of the matrix used in its design, and not just paying attention to the resolution.
Digital camera processor
controls the image stabilization system, shutter and aperture operation, selects the best exposure and focusing mode (focusing) of the lens, processes a large flow of information coming from the matrix. Digital camera software allows you to use various exposure and focusing metering modes, such as matrix, spot, etc., use recorded software settings, reduce the noise level in the image, record photo and video files to a memory card and transfer them through the existing interface to external devices. The processor specs are consistent with the rest of the system and are appropriate for the camera's class, so there's no need to worry about this.
Digital camera software
The latest developments allow the camera to recognize people's smiles, take pictures of pets when they turn towards the camera, send files via the built-in Wi-Fi port directly to cloud services and social networks, and record Full HD video. Using the software services of modern digital cameras, you can directly edit images, create panoramic images from individual frames, add unusual visual effects, and much more. When choosing a digital camera, you should pay attention to the list of available functions, many of which are not only useful, but can also be decisive in your choice.
Digital camera lens
It forms an image on the matrix, and the final result depends on how high quality it is. Structurally, the lens consists of a system of optical elements (lenses), the number of which can reach up to one and a half dozen. The lenses of modern photographic lenses are made from high-quality types of optical glass and have a special multilayer optical coating that improves light transmission. All lenses are divided into two groups: lenses with a fixed focal length and lenses with variable focal length - zoom lenses, or zoom lenses. The multiplicity of changes in focal lengths is called the lens magnification, for example, a lens with focal lengths of 28 -140 mm is a five-fold (5×) zoom. The longer the focal length of the lens, the closer distant objects can be captured. Optical zoom should not be confused with digital zoom: the latter is a software solution that reduces the overall resolution of the image. Essentially, the camera frames the photo.
Classification of digital cameras- a thankless task for two reasons: it can be based on completely different parameters, and the emergence of new models and even categories disrupts a seemingly harmonious system. Therefore, we will start from consumer properties and go from simple to complex, briefly characterizing the categories of cameras and their purpose.
Budget compacts from the Snap and Shoot category are an inexpensive solution with a price of up to $100–200, which has a set of several shooting programs, a self-timer, a built-in flash, and automatic focusing. Low resolution display up to 3 inches in size, 1/2.3 inch matrix, three to four times zoom lens. An optical viewfinder may be present. The software will allow you to record video with sound and perform basic photo editing operations. If you try, you can find models with a 5-10x zoom, a macro mode, with an autofocus illumination function, with the ability to record Full HD video, face detection, a webcam, image stabilizer, and exposure correction. Some cameras can shoot continuously at a decent speed. In general, not so little for this class of cameras, especially since new models are constantly improving and providing more and more features. The main characteristic of cameras in this class is the presence of automatic focus and exposure, allowing you to take pictures immediately after turning on by pressing one button.
Camera Sony Cyber-Shot Camera Easyshare
Cameras of this class will be an excellent choice for those who are not going to delve into the process and want to get good results right away. Ease of use will be appreciated by all family members, from children to grandparents, and the quality of the resulting images will allow you to print them up to A4 size on a home printer or in a darkroom.
Ultra-compact digital cameras They are small in size and weight, allowing you to carry them in your pocket without experiencing any inconvenience; a lens design that does not increase the thickness of the body; stylish design, variety of colors. The technical characteristics of such cameras roughly correspond to the characteristics of cameras of the previous level. Often cameras do not have an optical viewfinder, instead of which they use a display of good quality. The size of the camera imposes limitations on lens performance and sensor size, which ultimately affects image quality, and the miniature controls require delicate handling. However, ultra-compacts, despite their miniature size, allow you to take good pictures and capture fleeting moments, always being at hand.
Camera Canon Red Ixus 125 HS Camera Casio Exilim
In addition to the usual functions, the ultra-compact camera can be used as a voice recorder and audio player. Because of their miniature and elegant appearance, such cameras are popular with women and girls, which makes them a pleasant gift.
Rugged digital compact cameras They have a shock-resistant waterproof body, special protection for the zoom lens and controls, and shock-proof electronic-mechanical “filling”. Such a camera can withstand a drop from a two-meter height and operates at a depth of up to 10 m. Moreover, some models of this class are distinguished by frost resistance unusual for conventional digital compacts, allowing you to take pictures at temperatures down to -10 ° C, shoot Full HD video, have an electronic compass and a built-in system GPS with photo navigation function.
Camera Fujifilm FinePix XP Camera Olympus Tough
This camera will appeal not only to underwater photography enthusiasts and extreme photography enthusiasts, but also to all outdoor enthusiasts.
Superzooms or digital cameras with high magnification lenses, reaching values of 25× and even 30×, today is no longer fiction, but reality. Many leading manufacturers have models in this segment, which confirms the demand for cameras in this category. The focal length range of 27 - 810 mm, which the lens of the new premium camera has, covers all imaginable values, from wide-angle to ultra-long focal length. It is the lens in cameras of this type that sets all other characteristics of the camera elements, aimed at making maximum use of the powerful zoom lens. First of all, this is an image stabilization system that allows you to shoot at long focal lengths with the fastest shutter speeds, a 1/2.3-inch 10-16 MP sensor, a high-resolution electronic viewfinder, a high-performance processor with powerful software. The ability to record files in an uncompressed RAW format to obtain high-quality images, the presence of a manual mode - all this makes models of this class popular among travel enthusiasts, wildlife enthusiasts, and advanced amateur photographers.
Sony HX100v
Nikon Coolpix
Budget superzoom models are equipped with smaller sensors, lower magnification lenses, less clear viewfinders and displays with lower resolution. This allows you to reduce the cost of such models by about $100–200 and not degrade the camera performance too much.
Compact digital cameras for experienced amateurs and professionals combine “prosumer cameras,” mirrorless, hybrid, and system cameras. They can be divided into two groups: cameras with fixed lenses and cameras with interchangeable lenses.
Cameras with fixed lenses They are distinguished by rich functionality, the presence of manual settings, their designs implement modes inherent in SLR cameras, such as shutter priority mode, aperture priority mode, exposure compensation, focus area selection, and RAW file recording. The RAW format, sometimes called a “digital negative,” contains the most complete information recorded from the camera sensor, and allows you to change the color balance of the image, contrast, brightness, and, within small limits, exposure. This allows you to remove chromatic aberrations and noise, dips in highlights and shadows, and ultimately obtain higher quality images when processed on a computer. The capabilities of cameras in this category can be described using the example of several models.
Canon-PowerShot-G12
Premium compacts COOLPIX P7000 and Canon PowerShot G12 today (February 2012) are the latest models in the famous series of both brands. They are equipped with 10MP 1/1.7″ sensors, and the functionality and controls are practically no different from those used in entry-level SLR cameras. The COOLPIX P7000 has a 7.1× zoom 28 - 200 mm, the Canon PowerShot G12 with a more modest 5× zoom is equipped with a 2.8″ screen that rotates along two axes. Both cameras use an optical stabilization system, an optical viewfinder, an orientation sensor, a macro mode, and a slow flash sync mode.
It is impossible not to mention the camera that caused queues in European stores when it appeared: with a non-replaceable Fujinon 23/2.0 lens and a fixed focal length.
For photographers of the pre-digital era, retro design will undoubtedly cause reverence. The “filling” of the FinePix X100 evokes respect no less than the aesthetics of the magnesium alloy body: large CMOS, APS-C (23.4×15.6 mm), 12.2 MP sensor with a sensitivity of 100–12800 ISO, hybrid viewfinder with 100% frame display. A fast lens paired with a highly sensitive sensor allows you to take handheld photographs even in poor lighting conditions, and the built-in 3 EV neutral gray filter will be useful when solving creative problems. Shooting panoramas is done by pressing a button and moving in the desired direction, and the modes simulating the famous Fujifilm Velvia, Astiva, Provia films will not leave any photographer indifferent.
We hope after this article you will no longer have questions such as how to choose a camera.
Today, cameras are presented on the market in a wide range. But nevertheless, most people are not aware of the criteria by which such equipment should be selected. Many people have heard the terms “matrix” and “megapixels” in passing, but what they are talking about is unclear.
Sellers skillfully take advantage of the inexperience of buyers in matters of choice and impose cameras at incredibly high prices with many unnecessary functions on ordinary photography enthusiasts. How to avoid falling for the tricks of trade workers? How to choose a good quality camera?
First of all, you should proceed from your financial capabilities and the level at which you are proficient in photography. Accordingly, the higher the price of a particular model, the greater functional potential it has. But for beginners it is better to buy a simpler device.
It’s not a fact that the passion for photography will not burn out in a month or two. Therefore, the most important question before purchasing should be: why do you need a camera? For what purpose? Only after receiving objective answers can you move on to finding an answer to the main question of how to choose a camera.
A camera for an amateur will satisfy his needs with simple and, at first glance, high-quality photographs. The main thing is that they turn out clear. A professional photographer will prefer a model with the latest bells and whistles that can improve and systematize image quality.
Most cameras produced today are digital. They can be separated into two groups.
- Automatic with a minimum number of different settings.
- Mirror, the use of which requires mastery of all the subtleties of the process.
If you do not have photographic skills, you should give preference to the most automated camera. A camera with variable optics can be mastered by a professional.
But which device is better to choose? Compact digital camera or DSLR? Semi-professional or for real pros? A brief overview of camera characteristics will help you make the right choice.
The main difference between SLR cameras and other devices is the ability to use removable lenses. Thus, the camera includes two parts - the frame (or “body”) and mobile optics. Such a device provides very high image quality, even if visibility conditions leave much to be desired.
But how to choose the right DSLR camera? Needs to be considered several important criteria.
- It is important to focus on the year of manufacture of the model. The latest cameras are more advanced, but they become obsolete within a couple of months after they first hit the market. This does not apply to rarities that have no age limits. It is better to give preference to new digital technologies. It will be easier with them in terms of repairs and purchasing accessories.
- Megapixels, namely their number. Although professionals call this indicator insignificant, in large-format printing this criterion plays a paramount role.
- Weight and size are not important for a novice photographer or for rare shoots. However, if a person is used to not letting go of the device throughout the day, it is better to choose a more compact camera.
- Availability of video recording. Some people buy a DSLR to shoot video. But not all devices come with a microphone. Therefore, when buying a camera, you need to ask the seller about the availability of a recording device.
- Zoom. If you have a regular compact ultrazoom, working with a DSLR camera can cause certain difficulties, since the standard zoom in it is three times.
- What kind of frame: full or cropped. The former have a price several times higher. Therefore, if you have extra money, the choice should be made in their favor. If there is no finance, then the second option will also work.
- An equally important criterion for choosing a SLR camera should be the company that produced it. The top rated companies are Nikon, Canon and Sony. It is their models that should be given preference. But if your budget is limited, you can pay attention to other lesser-known manufacturers. Pentax, Olympus and Samsung have performed well. Canon is considered the main leader.
Having selected a model in accordance with the above criteria, it would be a good idea to try it out. You can take a few pictures in the store itself before purchasing. Sometimes the quality of a super-sophisticated DSLR is worse than that of a device that is a standard inexpensive point-and-shoot camera.
After receiving the answer to the question of how to choose a SLR camera, the next step will be purchasing a lens for it.
The most difficult question for a novice photographer is how to choose a lens for a camera. It is clear that a modern lens that will meet all parameters has not yet been invented. However, there is the most balanced model called Kit.
The result is a good device that meets the following parameters:
- good lens;
- cheap;
- universal.
In the future, you can purchase more advanced camera lenses. But for a beginner, Kit will be just right.
In addition to the lens, the flash plays an important role in a DSLR camera. How to choose a flash for shooting? Which one should you prefer? Here you need to act consistently, making a selection according to several criteria.
- Power, measured by the distance within which a high-quality image can be obtained.
- Automatic zoom. It will allow you to change the distance to the subject while maintaining light and focus.
- A flash with maximum battery recharging speed is suitable for those who are engaged in reportage photography.
- For different lighting effects, choose a flash with a rotating head.
- If your budget is limited, then it is better to buy a semi-professional flash than a low-quality cheap analogue.
Modern cameras are almost all digital. They differ in the range of functions and quality of parts. Such diversity sometimes confuses the buyer, especially if he is not exactly a pro in this industry. How to choose a digital camera so that it is also professional?
It is believed that the best brand on the market producing cameras for professionals is Canon. A Canon camera, whether professional or semi-professional, will be equipped with accessories from the same brand.
Such devices are quite expensive, so when purchasing, you should give preference to high-quality equipment with good optics and lenses.
How to choose a memory card for a camera?
Before you buy a memory card, you need to familiarize yourself with the technical characteristics of the camera and find out what type of memory is suitable for it. Information can also be found on the Internet. In addition to information about memory, you need to clarify information about the size of the flash card that your tool will “pull”.
If the question of which flash drive manufacturer to prefer is not relevant to you, then it is better not to contact companies about which you have not heard anything. Leaders in the production of memory cards are Transcend, SanDisk, Kingston.
If you are offered a free memory card when purchasing a camera, then know that this is a marketing ploy by the seller. It’s good if the card simply turns out to be defective and does not harm the device. Remember that a high-quality memory card cannot be cheap.
If you need a large amount of memory, then do not put it in one flash drive. Buy two cards with equal volume. You will protect yourself if one carrier suddenly stops working.
Before paying money to the store's cash register, check the card for serviceability. If everything works, then you can safely make a purchase.
How to choose a tripod for a camera?
Most camera owners dream of purchasing a tripod to go along with it, the function of which is to hold the camera in a stationary position. But how to choose a compact and at the same time reliable tripod? To do this you need to know main characteristics of the device.
- Working height– is defined as the distance from the surface of the platform with which the tripod is in contact to the camera. The height can be minimum and maximum. It is better if the maximum height is greater than the height of the photographer.
- Tripod size and weight. These indicators must be such that when shooting, the weight of the camera does not affect the support and does not break it. However, you should give preference to compact tripod models, since they are more convenient to carry in your hands.
- Accessories. Many tripods come with a full set of components. But professionals prefer to buy various elements separately. This is a more expensive purchase option, but also of higher quality.
- Case– useful on a long journey or on a trip. It will protect your tripod from bad weather.
TOP 5 best DSLR cameras
The number of lovers of high-quality photographs and digital cameras is constantly growing. However, it is not always easy to choose the optimal model, especially if a person is not well versed in this. We offer a brief overview of the 5 best DSLR cameras for every taste and budget.
The best model for a beginning photographer who has a limited budget, but wants to purchase a compact SLR camera with the maximum number of functions for fairly little money.
Pros:
- low price of the device itself;
- low cost of lenses for the device;
- video shooting with Full HD resolution;
- compactness;
- magnificent flash;
- long battery life (up to 700 photos);
- 24.7 MP matrix (APS-C).
Minuses:
- The LCD screen is built into the body;
- Possible strong digital noise;
- too few shooting modes.
Camera Nikon D3300 Body
This model is for experienced amateur photographers who place fairly high demands on the camera. Reviews about the camera are generally positive; buyers are only confused by the high cost of the device. But more about everything.
Pros:
- high image quality;
- good flash;
- good rate of fire (6 frames per second);
- clear LCD screen;
- high-quality assembly;
- convenient viewfinder;
- precise autofocus;
- long battery life.
Minuses:
- no wireless modules;
- overcharge;
- built-in LCD screen.
Camera Nikon D7100 Body
A very good, but also quite expensive model, produced by a Japanese company. Suitable for advanced users who want to get professional photos without spending extra effort.
Pros:
- high-quality and clear photographs;
- 3 user modes;
- good rate of fire (12 shots per second);
- good image stabilizer;
- electronic viewfinder;
- wi-fi available;
- tracking focus;
- ability to select focus mode;
- rotating LCD screen.
Minuses:
- high cost;
- short battery life;
- The red eye removal function works slowly.
The ideal sharpness and clarity of the resulting images is, perhaps, the main review of this magnificent camera. However, the advantages of the device are not limited to this. There is also a fly in the ointment in this “celebration of life” - the high price of the device itself and the lenses for it.
Pros:
- amazing sharpness;
- high resolution photographs;
- hybrid autofocus;
- 37 megapixels under the body;
- there is a second display;
- weatherproof housing;
- long battery life (up to 1200 shots);
- excellent working flash.
Minuses:
- insufficient rate of fire (only 5 photos per second);
- LCD screen built into the body;
- high cost of the device and lenses for it.
Camera Nikon D810 Body
One of the best professional cameras currently available. It has excellent characteristics, but at the same time it is characterized by high cost and high weight. Judging by the reviews, buyers are ready to turn a blind eye to such shortcomings.
Pros:
- no digital noise;
- very good and accurate autofocus performance;
- presence of a second screen;
- high rate of fire (14 frames per second);
- long battery life (1200 shots);
- durable metal case;
- excellent video quality;
- built-in GPS receiver.
Minuses:
- low matrix resolution;
- high cost;
- heavy model;
- no wifi.
There are quite a lot of criteria by which you need to choose cameras. A person ignorant in this area may become confused. That is why it is better for a beginner to purchase an inexpensive model for the first time. Over time, experience and knowledge in the field of photography will become wider, and then the question of how to choose a camera will no longer cause difficulties.
Do you want to buy a digital camera, but don’t understand them at all? In this article we will tell you how to choose a digital camera and give some recommendations for purchasing.
If you're standing in the middle of a store and don't have time to understand the intricacies and nuances of digital photography, below is a list of quality cameras in various categories.
- Budget DSLR: Nikon D3300
- Compact general purpose camera: Panasonic Lumix ZS100
- Camera with superzoom lens: Panasonic Lumix FZ1000
- Expensive compact camera: Panasonic Lumix LX100
- Semi-professional SLR camera: Nikon D750
- One of the best interchangeable lens cameras: Sony A7R II
- Megapixels (sensor resolution) are not as important as is commonly believed. The final quality of photographs is more affected by the size of the sensor, the autofocus system and optical image stabilization.
- Don't get hung up on the "best" or newest camera. Cameras of the same class and in the same price category rarely stand out from the general group. Typically, a camera is judged on four criteria: photo quality, performance, features and design. In turn, the latest cameras are usually not much superior to previous models.
- If you buy a camera in a store, then you have a good opportunity to independently evaluate its advantages and disadvantages. Make sure the camera is comfortable and not so big and heavy that you would rather leave it at home. Evaluate the convenience of the buttons, the brightness of the display, the menu and other features of the camera. In models with a touch screen, the menu is not logical or poorly organized.
Why buy a camera if your smartphone can take photos?
Many cameras have optical zoom, which is much superior to the digital zoom of mobile device cameras. Even if your smartphone has a dual camera, the lens of a compact camera will still be better than the optics of a mobile phone or tablet.
Mobile camera cameras have come a long way over the past few years. However, it should be borne in mind that a camera that was specifically designed for photography is superior to mobile devices in quality, speed and functionality. Therefore, even novice photographers prefer cameras for shooting events, holidays or travel.
Cameras with interchangeable lenses
Digital cameras with interchangeable lenses are divided into SLR cameras and cameras without a mirror. Cameras with interchangeable lenses have several advantages:
- you have the opportunity to buy a better quality lens or a lens that better suits your purposes
- you can buy a lens with a wider or narrower field of view
Single-lens cameras include pseudo-reflex cameras and compact point-and-shoot cameras. Pseudo-mirror cameras are very similar to DSLR cameras and are usually equipped with high-quality optics.
Single lens cameras have the following advantages:
- they are compact and lighter in weight
- The optics of pseudo-mirror cameras match the quality and capabilities of expensive lenses, but at the same time they cost less and weigh less
- Changing lenses is not always convenient
- many people use only one lens
SLR camera or camera without a mirror?
If you decide to buy a camera with interchangeable lenses, you need to decide whether to choose a SLR camera or a camera without a mirror. Many people believe that a DSLR camera is the only right choice. This is not always true. The quality of photographs taken with a camera without a mirror and with a DSLR camera is very close, provided that similar sensors and optics are used. SLR cameras with interchangeable lenses of medium and high class are equipped with productive, modern electronics, a sophisticated autofocus system and are characterized by a high speed of shooting a series of photographs. Keep in mind that the quality of your photos is more impacted by an expensive lens than an expensive body.
The following are the advantages of DSLR cameras:
- The viewfinder of an inexpensive SLR camera is much better than the viewfinder of an inexpensive camera without a mirror
- The battery life of a DSLR camera is usually longer than the battery life of a camera without a mirror
- No adapter needed to use old lenses with a DSLR camera
- inexpensive DSLR cameras cost less than interchangeable lens cameras without a mirror in the same price category
Cameras with interchangeable lenses without a mirror also have a number of positive qualities:
- These cameras are usually smaller and lighter than DSLRs. The lenses for them are also smaller and lighter
- cameras with interchangeable lenses without a mirror are better suited for video shooting
- The image stabilization system of cameras without a mirror is usually better than that of DSLR cameras
What to look for when buying a camera
If you need very high quality photos, pay attention to the sensor size. The larger the sensor, the better. However, with the size of the sensor, the price of the camera also increases.
What is important for shooting video
If you plan to shoot video, pay attention to cameras with good autofocus systems. There are also cameras on sale with the ability to shoot video with 4K resolution and a large number of frames per second.
How important is light sensitivity?
If you plan to shoot a lot in low light conditions, pay attention to your camera's ISO. Cameras with a large sensor and a good image stabilization system are better suited for these purposes.
How important is zoom?
Cameras with large zoom multipliers are great for travel because you can zoom in on distant objects. If you plan to shoot sports, you will need a camera with a very good autofocus system.
The following are the main types of lenses:
- Ultra wide angle lens (less than 18mm) - suitable for capturing large scenes
- wide-angle lens (18 to 30 mm) - suitable for group photography, landscapes and street photography
- standard lens (30 to 70 mm) - suitable for portraits
- telephoto lens (70 to 300 mm) - suitable for portraits and sports photography
- super telephoto lens (over 300mm) suitable for sports and wildlife photography
How important is shooting speed?
Photography speed is important if you plan to photograph action or objects in motion. In this case, pay attention to the autofocus system and the speed of the camera when shooting a series of photos. You should also find out about the quality of images at high ISO values (ISO 800 - ISO 6400).
What's Important for Wildlife Photography
If you plan to photograph wildlife, then your camera should have a dust and waterproof body. Some models are also suitable for photography in low temperatures. Compact cameras for underwater photography are available for sale. You should also keep in mind that a DSLR camera has a longer battery life than an interchangeable lens camera without a mirror. You will also need spare batteries, memory cards and a good, comfortable bag for your camera and accessories.
How important is the viewfinder?
The viewfinder is very important, especially if you have to shoot in bright conditions. In bright sunlight, using the LCD display is extremely inconvenient.
