Setting up a reflex camera. main parameters

At the beginning of the century, resolution was an important consideration when choosing a digital camera, but today you have to work hard to find a camera with a resolution of less than 12 megapixels, which is more than enough for any reasonable application. Megapixels have nothing to do with the "professionalism" of the camera, and flagship reportage devices have no higher resolution than amateur models. High resolution (20 megapixels or more) potentially increases the detail of the photograph, but at the same time, it reveals both the flaws of the lens and, to an even greater extent, the lack of skill of the photographer. Without good optics and the ability to handle it, there will be no use from an excess of megapixels, while the size of files grows significantly with increasing resolution.

Matrix size

Story programs and special effects

All kinds of "creative" modes are mostly absolutely useless and can be safely ignored by you. The presence of twenty stupid icons on the mode dial is the clearest sign of an amateur camera. However, even quite decent devices are not immune from such an infection.

User settings

The ability to save custom settings and then quickly switch between presets makes your work faster and easier. It is a pity that this most useful option is not available in all cameras.

exposure compensation

Without exposure compensation, the use of automatic exposure modes is unthinkable. Either a separate dial or one of the universal control dials in combination with the appropriate modifier button (+/-) should be responsible for exposure compensation. Controlling exposure compensation through the menu is absolutely unacceptable.

Colored histogram

A three-channel RGB histogram is essential for accurately judging the exposure of a photo you've just taken. A real-time histogram that allows you to adjust the exposure before the shutter is released is a progressive but still rare phenomenon.

Bracketing

Exposure bracketing or bracketing is useful when shooting HDR. The expediency of other types of bracketing seems doubtful to me, but this is an individual matter.

Shutter speed and aperture control

The exposure controls should always be at hand. It is desirable that in manual mode, both shutter speed and aperture are controlled by separate disks. A single dial and a modifier button is a compromise solution, but acceptable.

ISO and white balance control

In a good camera, special buttons are responsible for controlling ISO sensitivity and white balance. In amateur cameras, ISO and white balance are adjusted through the menu.

Flash sync speed

The professional standard today is 1/250 s or shorter. In amateur cameras, the sync speed is usually 1/200 or even 1/180 s.

Flash lock

Flash exposure lock prevents the subject from flickering when shooting with fill flash. If you are going to actively photograph people or animals with flash, pay attention to this useful feature.

Back button focus

I prefer the shutter release and autofocus to be separate buttons. A good camera always has a dedicated AF-ON button that can be used to activate autofocus. At worst, this function can be assigned to the AE-L / AF-L button. If the camera does not support rear button focusing, this is a serious flaw.

Fine tuning autofocus

It is very good if the device allows you to manually adjust the lenses. Factory alignment errors, unfortunately, are not uncommon.

HDR and panoramas

No harm, no benefit. If you seriously want to shoot HDR or panoramas, then you should do it manually and special modes are unlikely to help here.

WiFi and GPS

The need for a GPS module in a camera is beyond my comprehension, but Wi-Fi may well replace a card reader or a USB cable if the traditional procedure for transferring photos from a camera to a computer is difficult for you. Probably soon even toilets will be equipped with Wi-Fi and GPS.

Mechanical strength

Most photographers don't need a heavy-duty camera. Typically, digital cameras become obsolete much faster than they wear out. Only a very small percentage of photojournalists actually push their equipment to the limit, and if you're not going to put your camera through the rigors, a metal body will only mean extra weight and expense.

Shutter Life

The declared shutter resource can be safely ignored. For modern cameras, it ranges from 100,000 to 400,000 shots, and a rare photographer manages to snap so many masterpieces before the device is broken or sold. If the camera mileage reaches the coveted number, then this does not mean at all that the shutter will immediately jam - usually it continues to work further as if nothing had happened.

Dust and moisture protection

Weather protection is useful if you are often in nature. By the way, splash protection does not mean that the camera will survive a fall into the water. For underwater shooting, special waterproof covers are used. Only a few compact cameras for outdoor enthusiasts have a fully sealed housing.

Memory cards

In amateur cameras, as a rule, SD (SDHC) memory cards are used due to their compactness and cheapness, and in professional cameras - CF or XQD because of their high speed and capacity. It is very good if the camera has two memory card slots: the second card can be used for backup.

Battery Life

The larger the battery capacity, the better. A SLR camera can take up to a thousand or more shots on a single battery charge, provided that you do not abuse the built-in flash and Live View. Cameras with an electronic viewfinder are much more gluttonous and the batteries last at best for 300-400 shots.

battery grip

The battery grip serves not only to accommodate additional batteries, but also to shoot both horizontally and vertically oriented shots with the same comfort. In flagship models, the vertical grip is integrated into the body, while on most other cameras, the battery grip can be screwed on if necessary. If you plan to shoot a lot of portraits, make sure you have a commercially available battery grip for your camera.

Dimensions

Regarding the optimal dimensions of the camera, the opinions of photographers differ greatly. Some people like large cameras, as they are more grippy and convenient, while others like small ones, as they are more practical and transportable. Being a mobile person, I prefer that the linear dimensions of the camera remain modest, although this has its drawbacks. For example, the handle of most junior DSLRs is too small for the average male hand, and with a normal grip, there is no longer room for the little finger. With mirrorless cameras, the situation is even worse - there may not be a handle at all. In addition, the small size of the camera means that the controls are very close, and if you have large hands or if you are going to use the camera with gloves, this can be a little difficult. But a small camera is convenient to carry around, and this advantage outweighs many of its shortcomings.

The weight

From my point of view, the weight of the camera should be as light as possible without appreciably compromising its reliability and functionality. It is generally accepted that a heavy camera is less prone to vibration, but this is little consolation for a photographer who is forced to carry a couple of cast-iron bricks around his neck all day.

I hope that now it will be much easier for you to decide on the choice of a camera that meets your personal needs. If you need more specific recommendations, you should refer to the article "Choosing a digital camera".

Thank you for your attention!

Vasily A.

post scriptum

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Matrix
The matrix is ​​a platform with photosensitive elements - pixels. Each pixel of the matrix, when light hits it, generates an electric current, the strength of which depends on the intensity of the light. Knowing for pixels only the intensity of light, we get a black and white picture. To get a color image, each pixel uses its own filter: red, green or blue. All other colors are obtained by mixing the three primary colors. The matrix has two main parameters that affect the quality of the resulting image.

Matrix resolution, measured in megapixels. So if the camera matrix has 4 Megapixels (Mp), then this means that 4 million pixels (cells) fit on the site. The higher the resolution, the greater the ability of the camera to display fine details in the picture. However, chasing megapixels is not worth it. For printing photos of 10x15 cm, 1 megapixel is enough. The best choice would be a 3-5 megapixel camera, photos taken with it can be printed up to A4 (20x30cm).

Matrix size. Popular models use matrices with linear dimensions from 1/1.8 to 1/3.2 inches. In the first case, the matrix has a larger size. The large matrix provides the following benefits:
can register more light (transmit more shades),
and has a lower noise level.
Thus, if we compare two matrices 1/1.8 and 1/3.2 with the same number of pixels (for example, 4MP), the first one will be the best, since 4 million pixels are located on a larger area, and, therefore, such a matrix will give the best picture ( better quality and less noisy). Otherwise, when comparing two matrices with the same dimensions, but with different numbers of megapixels, for example, 6 and 7, it is also better to choose the first one, as this will not only save money, but also allow you to get better pictures in the future. However, this is true when comparing matrices from one manufacturer or one line of cameras, different manufacturers may have different types of matrices with incomparable characteristics.

Sensor sensitivity (ISO). It varies from 50 to 3200. At high sensitivities, you can take a clear picture at dusk or even at night, however, at high sensitivities, noise appears.

Lens
It is thanks to the lens that light enters the camera and an image is formed on the matrix. The quality of the resulting image largely depends on the quality of the lens - clarity, sharpness, lack of distortion, etc. The important elements of a lens are the lenses and the diaphragm. Lenses are responsible for the nature of the light, and the aperture allows you to control the amount of this light. By closing the aperture to the minimum values, we can reduce the amount of light entering the matrix.

The main characteristics of the lens:
Aperture. Aperture is the value of the maximum open aperture. The larger the lens aperture, the better and more expensive the camera. Under the same lighting conditions, a lens with a larger aperture allows you to shoot at faster shutter speeds.

Usually the lens marking looks like this: 5.8-34.8mm 1:2.8-4.8. The first pair of numbers is the focal length (the distance from the front lens of the lens to the sensor). The second pair of numbers are the corresponding aperture values ​​of the lens. For example, here at 34.8mm (at the maximum zoom) the lens has aperture of 4.8. The smaller the aperture number, the better. A lens with characteristics of 5.8-34.8mm 1:2-3.2 would be considered faster.

Focal length. The focal length determines the angle of view of the lens and how far it "sees". For digital cameras, the focal length is also given in 35mm equivalent. This is due to the fact that the diagonal of the matrix is ​​less than the diagonal of the 35mm film frame, that is, the matrix does not cover the entire field of the frame, from which the concept of increasing the focal length (Focal Length Multiplier) arises. For different cameras, this factor ranges from 1.3 to 1.6. Viewing angle. Directly depends on the focal length. Approximately corresponding to the viewing angle of the human eye is considered a lens with a focal length of 50mm. Lenses with shorter focal lengths are wide-angle lenses, those with longer focal lengths are telephoto lenses.

Zoom (zoom). The zoom of the lens is calculated very simply: for this you need to divide the larger focal length by the smaller one. For the camera mentioned above, the zoom is 34.8/5.8=6. As indicated by the manufacturer. If the camera is equipped with a lens without zoom, then its focal length and aperture are indicated on it: for example, 20mm 1: 2.8. The larger the zoom of the camera, the more complex its design, and the manufacturer has to find a compromise between cost and quality. Therefore, ultra zooms (6-12x) usually give a worse picture compared to moderate zooms (up to 3x).

3. Image stabilizer
The image stabilizer is designed to combat the so-called "shake" effect - caused by hand shake when photographing at sufficiently slow shutter speeds or at a large zoom.

Stabilization options:
Optical stabilization. It is based on the fact that a movable stabilizing element is built into the lens, which bends the light path in the right direction. Also in the lens there are sensors that control the movement of this element. As a result, with slight vibrations of the camera, the projection of the image onto the matrix always remains motionless. However, it also has its drawbacks:
Decreases the aperture ratio of the lens
Rising cost
Canon has developed Image Stabilizer (IS) for its lenses. Nikon has a similar system referred to as VR.

anti-shake. In this stabilization technology, unlike optical stabilization, the matrix itself is the moving element. The main advantage of this approach is the independence of stabilization from the lens, so such stabilization can work with any optics. Konica Minolta was the first to develop such stabilization. The most striking example of a built-in antishake is a new product from Sony - the Alpha DSLR-A100.

4. Viewfinder
The viewfinder allows you to see the future picture before pressing the shutter. In digital compact cameras, it may be completely absent; its role is played by a display on which an image is formed in real time. The viewfinder can be optical,
mirror and electronic.
The reflex viewfinder is considered the best. It allows you to see the real area of ​​the frame without distortion.

The optical viewfinder is just a through hole in the camera body and does not correspond to what the lens sees, if only because it is offset by some distance relative to it, but in this case the display comes to the aid of the photographer.

5. Camera display
On compact digital cameras, the display allows you to see the picture as it turns out in the photo and see in advance the shortcomings in the composition, shadows, lighting (some cameras can show a histogram of the future image in real time). On DSLRs, the display can be used to view shots already taken. Also, the display serves as an interface for controlling the camera, so the larger and brighter it is, the better.

6. Flash.
Typically, each camera is equipped with a built-in low-power flash that can illuminate the foreground. Flashes are also equipped with various red-eye reduction functions, etc. In professional and semi-professional cameras, there is also a contact for connecting an external flash - a hot shoe. External flashes allow you to achieve much better results in all genres of shooting.

7. Possibility of manual settings
An important condition for obtaining high-quality photos is the presence of manual settings in the camera. Namely, the ability to adjust the aperture, adjust the shutter speed, set the white balance, change the sensitivity of the matrix and other settings.

The presence of these adjustments allows you to fully control the shooting process, because even the fastest camera processor may not know the intent of the photographer.

So, you have decided to purchase a digital camera. Let me make a few remarks and comments on this matter, in the hope that they will arouse your interest and bring you some benefit.

A digital camera almost completely corresponds to the definition of a “new technology” product, almost all of its elements were developed and put into production in the very recent past. The only exception, albeit with some stretch, can be considered the optics of the camera, in digital "SLRs" it is possible to use interchangeable lenses of professional "film" cameras. Not even 20 years have passed since the appearance of the first digital cameras on the market, in 1991, the Kodak DSC100 saved pictures to a hard drive, the external unit of which weighed 5 kilograms. Today, all digital cameras record data on flash memory, the types of which are already quite unified, and it is not difficult to purchase the necessary model or adapter for reading information, a card reader. So, when buying a digital camera, this characteristic can be ignored. All cameras have built-in memory, but it is not enough to store a large number of captured frames, you still have to buy an external memory card, and there is only one piece of advice here - the more capacity it has, the better.

In general, it is possible to classify digital cameras by price today starting from $100. Unlike film "soap dishes", it is not easy to find a digital camera for sale below this price. I will assume that this niche is occupied by the built-in cameras of mobile phones. To take a quick picture "for memory", for viewing on the screen of a mobile phone or computer, these cameras are quite capable. If a person wants to hold a traditional photograph in his hands, he acquires a "real" camera. What should I pay attention to when buying it? The main parameter, as it happened, and quite rightly, is the number of megapixels of the matrix. It is assumed that the larger this number, the better, “sharper” the image will be.

But this rule is valid only up to a certain limit, the "clarity" of the image depends on many other characteristics. camera matrix, its size, photosensitivity and others. An increase in the number of pixels on the matrix leads to an increase in the so-called signal-to-noise ratio. Less light falls on each pixel, because the light-sensitive area of ​​the pixel itself becomes smaller, and accordingly, the strength of the electric charge that the digital converter of the camera reads will also be smaller. Therefore, when familiarizing yourself with the characteristics of the camera, you should definitely pay attention to the size (surface area) of the matrix itself. With an equal number of pixels, a camera with a larger sensor should be preferred. With the same size matrices and with a number of pixels of the order of 6-7 million, paradoxically, the best pictures will be taken by a camera with fewer pixels, especially when photographing is done in a room where there is less light. Of course, this is all true if the other technical characteristics of the device are equal, and even for devices from the same manufacturer. In addition, the number of pixels on the matrix does not match the number of pixels in the resulting image, pay attention to the characteristic: "The number of effective megapixels of the matrix", it can differ very much, by 2-3 units, from the total number of pixels. But we can say that for amateur and semi-professional photography, a camera with 5-6 megapixels is quite acceptable, it will allow you to get very good photos of A4 size (standard sheet of writing paper). An important characteristic of a camera matrix is ​​its light sensitivity. It is measured in units (ISO), from 50 to several thousand. Almost all modern cameras allow you to change this parameter. High light sensitivity when shooting in the daytime, in sunlight is undesirable, and modern cameras reduce it automatically. Manual change is useful for filming with unusual, special tasks.

Canon A510 noise histogram compared to Canon A75 (1/2.5" sensor and 1/2.7" number of pixels are the same)

Another important element of the camera is lens. Good professional photo optics can be several times more expensive than the camera itself. The main parameters of the lens are the focal length, Zoom and aperture. Please note that with a high Zoom value (ultrasound), in some conditions, lower quality images are obtained. The characteristics of lenses and their influence on the resulting images will be discussed in a separate article.

camera viewfinder happens optical and mirror. On good digital cameras, an LCD display has become almost mandatory. SLRs are more complex in design, more expensive, for professional shooting. They display the picture that will be in the photo, make it possible to accurately select filters, and so on. There are several semi-slang terms: “pseudo-mirror” and “half-mirror”. The former only resemble the shape of SLR cameras, the latter contain a prismatic mirror inside the camera, but do not allow the use of interchangeable lenses.

An important parameter of the lens and camera is the presence of image stabilization. Eliminates interference caused by hand shaking. Image stabilization can be done in several ways.

Optical Image Stabilizer

The stabilizing element of the lens, which is movable along the vertical and horizontal axes, is deflected by the electric drive of the stabilization system at the command from the sensors so that the image projection on the film (or matrix) fully compensates for camera vibrations during exposure. As a result, at small amplitudes of camera vibrations, the projection always remains stationary relative to the matrix, which provides the picture with the necessary clarity. However, the presence of an additional optical element reduces the aperture ratio of the lens.

Moving sensor image stabilizer

In this system, the movement of the camera is compensated not by the optical element inside the lens, but by its matrix, fixed on a movable platform. Lenses are getting cheaper, simpler and more reliable, image stabilization works with any optic. This is important for SLR cameras with interchangeable lenses. Matrix-shift stabilization, unlike optical stabilization, does not introduce distortions into the picture (perhaps, except for those caused by the uneven sharpness of the lens) and does not affect the aperture ratio of the lens. At the same time, matrix-shift stabilization is considered to be less effective than optical stabilization.With an increase in the focal length of the lens, the effectiveness of Anti-Shake decreases: at long focuses, the matrix has to move too fast with too large an amplitude, and it simply ceases to keep up with the “elusive” projection.In addition, for high accuracy, the system must know the exact value of the focal length of the lens, which limits the use of old zoom lenses, and the focusing distance at close range, which limits its work in macro photography.

Electronic (digital) image stabilizer

With this type of stabilization, approximately 40% of the pixels on the matrix are assigned to image stabilization and do not participate in image formation. When the video camera shakes, the picture "floats" on the matrix, and the processor captures these fluctuations and makes a correction using spare pixels to compensate for the picture shake. This stabilization system is widely used in digital video cameras, where matrices are small (0.8 Mp, 1.3 Mp, etc.). It has a lower quality than other types of stabilization, but is fundamentally cheaper, since it does not contain additional mechanical elements.

If you plan to take artistic shots, pay attention to the camera's exposure characteristics, also called "shutter speed". For filming, say, the starry sky, for example, a very long shutter speed of the order of several seconds is necessary.

Well, when choosing a camera, batteries and batteries are of no small importance. In addition, today, manufacturers consider it their duty to provide a camera, a device for creating a static picture of reality (“stop, a moment, you're fine!”), A microphone and a video recording function. Here, as they say, we will do without comments.

A digital camera is a very convenient thing in order to capture the most memorable moments of life. Digital cameras allow even practically unprepared people to create excellent, and even artistic, pictures. I know cases when a person, having become interested in digital photography, even started doing it professionally, changed his specialty, providing his family with a good income. The advantage of digital cameras lies precisely in the simplicity, in comparison with chemical photography, of creating pictures. If your means allow it, you can easily become the owner of a very good device for photographing, and most importantly, quickly master the intricacies of this activity.

Which camera to buy? Which camera to choose? Professional or amateur?

The difference in the quality of pictures taken on professional cameras and on amateur ones is huge.

To understand this phenomenon, you need to understand the terms. So: professional camera this is any camera held by a professional, amateur camera this is any camera that an amateur holds in his hands.

Basic rules to help you choose a camera

The parameters by which you can choose a camera include certain (1) features of the technical specification of the device, (2) the main purpose of the camera (what, where, when and where it will be filmed), (3) the degree of knowledge of photography techniques, (4) the amount of money available (the price of a carcass and a park of lenses), (5) the presence of previously purchased lenses and photographic accessories , (6) personal aesthetic preferences.

The main technical characteristics of the camera taken into account when buying it

Bayonet

The type of interchangeable lens mount that can be used with this camera model.
Only lenses specifically designed for this model can be attached to an interchangeable lens camera. This is due to different types of mount, as well as different electronic "stuffing" of lenses. As a rule, each major camera manufacturer develops its own standard for interchangeable lenses, which is not compatible with the standards of other manufacturers.
If you already have a set of lenses for your camera, then when choosing a new model, you can choose the one that will be compatible with them.

Matrix type

The type of photosensitive sensor installed in the digital camera.
The camera matrix is ​​an array of photosensitive elements (pixels). With the help of a lens, an image of the object being shot is created on the matrix. During exposure (photography), each pixel accumulates an electrical charge proportional to the amount of light that hits it. After shooting, a signal is read from each photocell, digitized and processed by the processor.
Cameras typically use one of the following sensor types: CCD, CMOS, X-Trans CMOS, BSI CMOS, EXR CMOS, and Live MOS. In a CCD (Charge-Coupled Device, or CCD - a charge-coupled device), when a signal is read, the accumulated charge shifts from one matrix element to another, forming a finished image line or a whole frame at the output.
CMOS (Complementary-symmetry / Metal-Oxide Semiconductor), or CMOS matrix (CMOS - complementary metal oxide semiconductor), consists of individual photocells and control transistors made using CMOS technology. Transistors control the operation of the photosensor and provide signal reading.
X-Trans CMOS is a joint development by FUJIFILM with Adobe Systems Incorporated. Processing RAW photos from cameras equipped with this type of sensor in Adobe software allows you to more effectively combat moiré and correct colors in photographs.
X-Trans CMOS II is a new version of the matrix from FUJIFILM. Thanks to the technologies used to create this type of matrix, the phase focusing speed is increased, and the moire effect is also reduced.
Matrices BSI CMOS (Back Side Illuminated CMOS - back-illuminated sensor) differ from conventional CMOS in increased light sensitivity, which can significantly reduce the amount of visual noise when shooting in poor lighting conditions. This is achieved due to the fact that the reverse side of the matrix transmits more light, so the sensor, as it were, is installed upside down.
EXR CMOS is developed by Fujifilm. In matrices of this type, the pixels are arranged in a sequence different from other types of matrices. Due to this, the EXR CMOS sensor can switch operation modes depending on the shooting conditions and requirements. There are three main modes. HD (high definition) - all the pixels of the sensor are used, achieving maximum resolution and clarity. DR (high dynamic range) - some pixels take a picture with one exposure, some with another, which achieves the HDR effect with just one shot (usually two or three are needed), but the resolution is reduced. SN (high sensitivity) - pixels are combined in pairs, which improves the performance of the matrix in low light, but also reduces resolution.
Live MOS matrix is ​​a photosensitive matrix based on MOS technology. Live MOS contains fewer connections for each element and is powered by less voltage. Due to this and the simplified transmission of control signals, it is possible to obtain a "live" image in the absence of overheating and increased noise levels traditional for such an operating mode.
LBCAST (Lateral Buried Charge Accumulator and Sensing Transistor Array) also uses photosensitive semiconductor elements like the CMOS array, but since the circuit structure of LBCAST is simpler, miniaturization of the array can be achieved and its performance can be improved. Thanks to this, it is possible to increase the shooting speed. In addition, the increased surface area of ​​the photosensitive elements improves color depth and image contrast.
However, despite all the advantages, the LBCAST matrix has not been widely used.

Matrix Format

The physical size of the matrix has a direct relationship with the format. Most cameras in the mid-price category and above have a matrix of a certain format: 1 ″, 4/3 (Four Thirds), APS-C, APS-H, Foveon, Full frame (35mm) or medium format. If the matrix format is not specified, then, as a rule, we are talking about a budget camera with a non-standard matrix size. Please note that the dimensions of a single sensor format may vary slightly from manufacturer to manufacturer.
1″ (Nikon CX) is a relatively small matrix (13.2×8.8 mm). Installed in Nikon, Sony and Samsung compact cameras. The crop factor is 2.72.
APS-C is a very popular matrix format. The sensor dimensions for all manufacturers (except Canon) are 23.6×15.6 mm. Canon uses smaller sensors - 22.3×14.9 mm.
APS-H - the format used by Canon in some top-end SLR cameras and has dimensions of 27.9 × 18.6 mm.
4/3 (Four Thirds) is a popular sensor format for mirrorless cameras such as Four Thirds and Micro Four Thirds ("4/3", "m4/3"). The sensor dimensions are 17.3 × 13 mm, the crop factor is 2.0.
Foveon - the format is used only in Sigma cameras. The sensor dimensions are 20.7×13.8 mm.
Full frame (35mm) - full frame sensor. Often found in top-end SLR cameras, the sensor dimensions are approximately 36x24mm.
Medium format - used in professional studio photography.

The number of megapixels of the matrix
The resolution of the matrix that acts as a film in digital cameras, i.e. the number of photosensitive elements located on it (pixels, pixels).
The greater the number of pixels in the matrix, the higher the quality of the resulting images.
The maximum size with which the image can be reproduced without a visible deterioration in quality depends on the resolution of the matrix. For example, a 2-3 megapixel matrix (2-3 million elements) is enough to print a print of 9 × 15 cm format to a printer, a 3-4 megapixel matrix is ​​needed for an A4 print.
The resolution of modern cameras significantly exceeds the required minimum, and the number of megapixels of the photomatrix increases every year and today reaches 15-20 or more. Increasing the resolution with the same matrix size leads to a decrease in the pixel size. This, in turn, increases the level of noise in the photo. So the race for megapixels is not always good for quality.

crop factor
The value of the crop factor of a digital camera.
The crop factor is defined as the ratio of the frame diagonals of a 35mm film (24x36mm) and a digital camera sensor.
If we compare two cameras - one with a full-frame 24x36mm sensor and the second with a smaller sensor and a crop factor greater than one - then when using the same lenses, the second device will have a smaller field of view than the first. This is due to simple geometry. Since the angle of view is usually measured by the focal length of a 35 mm camera lens, the concept of "equivalent focal length" has been introduced for digital cameras. It is equal to the product of the focal length of the lens and the crop factor. The equivalent focal length essentially determines the camera's angle of view.
Knowing the value of the crop factor for digital cameras with interchangeable lenses, you can easily determine what equivalent focal length (angle of view) you will get when installing a particular lens.
When choosing lenses, you should also pay attention to the crop factor. On sale you can find special lenses for working with digital cameras, which have a crop factor greater than one. These lenses should not be used with 35mm cameras.
For most digital SLR cameras, the crop factor is in the range of 1.3-2.0. The smaller the value of the crop factor, the larger the size of the photomatrix (see "Matrix physical size") and the larger the area of ​​one pixel (at a given matrix resolution), the lower the noise level.

Physical size of the matrix

The size of the photosensitive matrix of the camera determines the size and area of ​​​​the smallest photosensitive element - the pixel. The larger the matrix area, the larger the pixel area (with the same matrix resolution, of course). With an increase in the pixel area, the photosensitivity increases, and the dynamic range of the matrix, noise decreases. An increase in the size of a matrix, as a rule, leads to an increase in its cost, therefore large matrices with a large diagonal are used only in professional equipment. Sensor size for inexpensive small cameras is usually specified as the nominal diameter of the transmission tube into which the sensor could fit and is measured in fractions of an inch. For large matrices, the size along two axes is indicated in millimeters.

ISO sensitivity, min

The minimum light sensitivity of the elements of the matrix of a digital camera, is indicated in units of the ISO system.
Each photosensitive matrix has certain physical characteristics that determine its operating sensitivity range. In this range, the matrix transmits an image with minimal distortion and an acceptable noise level. The wider this range (greater than the maximum and less than the minimum value of sensitivity), the more opportunities for scene shooting a digital camera has.

ISO sensitivity, max
Maximum light sensitivity of digital camera matrix elements.
Light sensitivity is the amount of light energy required to produce an image. It is indicated in units of the ISO system and can take values ​​of 100, 200, 400, 800, etc., by analogy with photographic film, in a certain interval. The higher the ISO number, the higher the sensitivity. The photographer, depending on the shooting conditions, can set one or another sensitivity value. The wider the sensitivity range of the photomatrix, the more shooting opportunities the camera has.
Shooting in low light conditions, shooting fast-moving subjects (sports) requires a higher light sensitivity than shooting still subjects in sunny weather. However, with an increase in the sensitivity of the matrix, the noise of the image also increases (i.e., a large number of dots appear on the image, the brightness or color of which differs significantly from the average color of the object).
The maximum light sensitivity indicates how sensitive the photomatrix can be.

Color depth

The number of bits used to represent the color of each pixel in the image.
The color of each pixel is encoded by a certain number of bits (bits), that is, elementary units of information. Depending on how many bits are allocated for the color of each pixel, it is possible to encode a different number of colors. Thus, the color depth allows you to determine what is the maximum number of colors that can be implemented in the image. For example, if the color depth is 24 bits/pixel, then a potential image can contain up to 16.8 million different colors and shades. It is obvious that the more colors are used for the electronic representation of the image, the more accurate the information about the color of each of its points (i.e. its color rendering).
For modern digital cameras, a color depth of 24 bits / pixel is considered the norm. If academic accuracy in color reproduction is required, then the color depth should be at least 30 bits / pixel.

Image stabilization (still photography)

The type of image stabilizer used when taking photos.
Image stabilization compensates for hand-shake when shooting for a clear, blur-free shot. The jitter effect becomes especially noticeable when photographing at a high magnification (zoom) or at a slow shutter speed. Image stabilizers are optical and digital, it is also possible to combine them (double stabilizer).
To compensate for hand shake, the optical image stabilizer uses the movement of one of the elements of the camera's optical system or the shift of the photomatrix (see "Stabilizer System"). A special sensor detects the shift of the lens barrel. After that, there is a change in the optical scheme or a matrix shift. This compensates for the micro-shift of the camera, and the image projected onto the matrix remains motionless.
In the digital stabilization mode, the camera's automation sets the maximum allowable value of the photomatrix sensitivity (ISO) for specific shooting conditions. In this case, the shutter speed automatically decreases. The fast shutter speed makes it possible to take blur-free pictures even if the camera shakes slightly while shooting.
It should be noted that the digital stabilizer can not help in all cases, therefore, to obtain high-quality images, it is better to focus on the optical stabilization system.
Dual Image Stabilizer is a combination of optical and digital image stabilizer.

Image stabilization system

The design of a mechanical image stabilizer in a digital camera.
Image stabilization compensates for hand-shake when shooting for a clear, blur-free image (see “Image Stabilizer (Still Image)”).
All modern mechanical stabilization systems can be divided into two types. In the first system, a moving element in the lens is used to compensate for camera shake, and in the second, a shift of the photosensitive matrix is ​​used.
Matrix-shift stabilization does not introduce additional distortions into the resulting image and does not affect the aperture ratio of the lens. In SLR cameras with such a stabilization system, you can use any lens.
An image stabilizer with an active element in the lens is considered to be more efficient due to the higher speed of operation.
Using the stabilizer increases the power consumption of the camera and may interfere with photography (when shooting with “wiring”). The stabilizer is not effective when shooting at long focal lengths and slow shutter speeds.

Maximum flash range

The maximum distance that the built-in flash can illuminate to take a good photo.
The maximum flash range is determined by the power of the flash emitter, so it is natural that for super-compact cameras the maximum range of the built-in flash will be less than for larger cameras.

Built-in flash

The presence of a built-in flash lamp in the camera, which turns on simultaneously with the shutter opening and illuminates the subject at the moment of shooting.
The flash allows you to take pictures in low light conditions, such as in the evening, to avoid shadows on the face, etc.
Most modern digital cameras are equipped with a built-in flash. A built-in flash may not be available on very compact or budget models, or on some high-end models designed exclusively for ambient lighting.

Synchrocontact

The presence on the case of a special connector (sync contact) for connecting an external flash.
This connector can be used to connect a non-standard flash that is not compatible with the hot shoe installed on the camera. The sync contact is often used for connection when shooting in a studio environment.

Flash bracketing

The presence of a flash bracketing mode in the camera.
Flash bracketing is an automatic burst mode that changes the flash output for each shot by a certain amount up or down from the average value. The average value is determined automatically.
This shooting mode can be used in situations where it is difficult to determine the exact exposure, or for special effects.

Shooting 3D

The presence of a system of two lenses (sometimes two pairs of lenses and matrices) that allows you to shoot photos and videos with the ability to view the footage in 3D format. 3D shooting can also be implemented at the software level, that is, using a special algorithm that converts ordinary photos into a three-dimensional format.
To obtain a three-dimensional image, it is necessary to record two separate frames (stereo pair) with angles for the left and right eyes and show each frame for "one's own" eye.
There are three most common methods for displaying a 3D image. The easiest and cheapest to implement is color coding of images. To obtain the effect, it is necessary to use special anaglyph glasses, in which light filters are used instead of glasses (usually red for the left eye, and blue for the right). The stereo pair is encoded into one photograph, in which the left eye is depicted in the red channel, and the right eye in blue. When viewed, each eye sees an image of the color that matches the color of its lens. The disadvantage of this method is incomplete color reproduction, as well as discomfort when viewing images or videos for a long time.
The most common household method for obtaining a high-quality three-dimensional image is the use of glasses with liquid crystal interrupters. To view, you need a playback or display device that supports 3D. Images for the left and right eyes are alternately displayed on the screen, and synchronized glasses at the time of displaying the image for the left eye cover the right one and vice versa.
Also, a qualitative effect can be achieved by using polarized glasses. In this case, glasses for each eye use different polarizing filters (with vertical and horizontal polarization or with left and right circular polarization). The image for each eye is displayed on the display device with the polarization corresponding to the particular eye.

Continuous Shooting Speed

Shooting speed in burst mode. For details on this mode, see "Burst Mode".
The shooting speed is determined by the shutter speed and the digital image processing system. The higher this speed, the more photos of the event you are interested in you will have time to take.
For compact digital cameras, the speed of fast shooting is usually in the range of 1 - 3 frames per second. Professional and semi-professional digital SLR cameras are capable of shooting up to 10 frames per second or more.
Please note that when shooting fast, camera manufacturers use different image processing techniques. This means that the quality of these shots may differ from the quality of normal shooting.
Manufacturers often provide the ability to change various quick shooting parameters, which allows the user to fine-tune shooting for specific tasks.

Maximum burst (RAW)
The maximum number of pictures that can be taken in one burst and saved in RAW format.
Continuous shooting refers to the ability of the camera to take several frames in a row with a minimum interval (see “Burst shooting mode”). The maximum number of shots in a series is limited by the operation of the camera electronics.
RAW is an image format that allows you to save the raw data of a photo without compression or with lossless compression. The maximum burst when saving an image in JPEG format is usually much larger than the same figure for RAW format. Therefore, if you need to get a long series, then choose to save in JPEG format.

Maximum burst (JPEG)

The maximum number of pictures that can be taken in one burst and saved in JPEG format. The value corresponding to the maximum shooting speed is given (see “Fast shooting speed”).
Continuous shooting refers to the ability of the camera to take several frames in a row with a minimum interval (see “Burst shooting mode”).
The maximum number of shots in a series is limited by the operation of the camera electronics.
The more frames in one series the camera can take, the more opportunity the photographer has to "catch" an interesting event.
Note that in some cameras, the user can choose the fast shooting modes, choose the burst length and shooting speed within the technical capabilities of the camera.

Time-lapse mode

Time-lapse is a shooting mode in which frames are taken after a significant period of time (from several seconds to tens of minutes). When played back at a normal frame rate, the clip appears to be sped up over a large amount of time. The most typical scenes for this shooting mode are: a blossoming flower and sunrise/sunset, shown in a few seconds.

Turn-on time

The period of time from the moment the power button is pressed until the moment when the camera is fully ready for use.
The turn-on time varies from a few seconds for "slow" cameras to tenths of a second for "fast" cameras.

Viewfinder pixels

The resolution of the electronic viewfinder of the camera.
The viewfinder is an optical device that allows you to see what will be captured by the camera.
An electronic viewfinder is a miniature LCD screen with a lens (eyepiece) installed inside the camera. It displays the future frame as it is "seen" by the photosensitive matrix through the camera lens.
The higher the resolution of the LCD matrix in the viewfinder (and the greater the number of pixels), the more detailed and detailed the image will be seen by the photographer.

LCD size

The diagonal size of the liquid crystal display. By tradition, it is indicated in inches (1 inch = 2.54 cm). Most cameras have an LCD screen between 3 and 6 cm in size. The larger the LCD screen, the more convenient it is to view the pictures taken and to deal with the numerous camera settings.

Number of LCD dots

The number of LCD dots. The higher it is, the clearer and better the image is obtained and, accordingly, the more comfortable it is to work with such a screen. For most digital cameras, the number of LCD dots is between 120,000 and 921,000.
It is worth considering that most manufacturers of digital cameras under the "number of screen dots" do not mean the number of pixels, but the number of subpixels. To form one pixel, three sub-pixels of the primary colors are usually used: red, green and blue. Therefore, to find out the real number of screen pixels, you need to divide the number of its points by three.

Swivel screen

The camera has a swivel screen. Can be rotated as a separate screen, and the entire rear panel of the device. The screen can rotate around its axis by 90 degrees or open to the side, like a video camera.

Touch screen

The presence in a digital camera of a touch (sensitive to pressing) liquid crystal screen.
In most devices, separate buttons are used to select various settings, located on the rear panel near the LCD screen. Touch screen models do not have these buttons. Such a display allows you to switch through the camera menu by pressing certain areas of the screen itself. This makes it possible to enlarge the screen and take up almost the entire rear panel of the camera.
Using the touch screen makes it intuitive to operate and navigate through the camera's numerous menus.

Exposure, min

The minimum shutter speed of the camera.
Exposure - the time during which the camera shutter remains open and transmits light rays to the photosensitive matrix.
Along with the aperture, this parameter determines the amount of light that hits the matrix, and, accordingly, the correct exposure. For well-lit subjects and for shooting moving subjects, the shutter speed should be very fast.
The lower the minimum shutter speed, the more opportunities for scene shooting a digital camera has.

Exposure, max

The maximum shutter speed of the camera.
is the time the camera shutter remains open to take a picture.
Along with this parameter determines the amount of light that hit the light-sensitive surface (matrix), and, accordingly, the correct exposure. For night shooting or when the F-number is high (see “Aperture value (F), min”, “Aperture value (F), max”), the shutter speed should be fast.
The range of possible shutter speeds for each camera is set in accordance with its technical solution. The longer the maximum shutter speed, the more opportunities for scene shooting a digital camera has.

Shutter speed for X-Sync

The minimum shutter speed at which the camera shutter fully opens the frame.
X-Sync is an electronic flash mode in which the signal to fire the flash is given exactly when the shutter is fully open.
Mechanical shutters with curtains work in such a way that at very short shutter speeds the frame is not completely open, the shutter opens a slit to the light, which “runs” through the frame. Since the flash time is shorter than the time for which the shutter opens the frame, a short flash light pulse will illuminate only that part of the frame over which the shutter slit was located at the moment the flash fired, that is, only part of the frame will be illuminated.
Thus, shooting with flash in X-Sync mode at shutter speeds slower than the X-Sync speed is not recommended. The smaller this value, the wider the range of shutter speeds for working with flash and the more opportunities the photographer has to realize his ideas.

General exposure metering (Evaluative)

The operation of the camera's exposure metering system in general mode.
Exposure metering is the calculation of the amount of light needed to get a good picture. Measurement is made by the camera before each shot, as a result of which the required shutter speed and aperture are calculated.
There are several exposure metering modes. Each mode is better suited for certain shooting conditions.
In the general measurement mode, information from several sensors is used. When calculating the exposure, the obtained data is compared with a database of typical frame compositions. After that, the best exposure for a particular type of frame is selected.

Electronic rangefinder

The presence of an electronic rangefinder function.
This function is helpful when using manual focus. The principle of operation is similar to rangefinder cameras, but the specific implementation and functionality depends on the device manufacturer and model.

Autofocus adjustment

The autofocus correction function allows you to increase the accuracy of focusing by fine-tuning it. In addition, for the most popular lenses, the camera memory may have preset settings.

Autofocus type

Type of camera autofocus system.
During the existence of autofocus, several types of autofocus have been invented. It all started with active autofocus using ultrasonic waves, and then infrared. Today, these methods are not used - they have given way to passive autofocus. It, in turn, can be contrast, phase or hybrid.
Contrast autofocus is common among mirrorless cameras. The camera processor analyzes the current image from the matrix and starts moving the lenses in one of two possible directions. If, after shifting the lenses, the picture is more contrasting (clear), then the movement of the lenses continues until the desired focus is found. If the image has deteriorated, then the movement of the lenses occurs in the opposite direction, again, until the desired focus is achieved. The strong point of contrast autofocus is precise focusing in dark and low-light scenes.
Phase autofocus is most commonly used in SLR cameras. For its operation, special sensors are required, which can be located directly in the camera's matrix or separately. Sensors receive fragments of the light flux from different points of the frame using mirrors. After that, the sensor will calculate how to move the lenses to get a clear image. When two light streams are at a certain distance from each other, given by the design of the sensor, the desired focus will be reached. Phase detection autofocus boasts excellent focusing speed.
Hybrid autofocus systems are rare. Such autofocus combines the positive aspects of both contrast and phase autofocus. The hybrid system is being implemented in both mirrorless and SLR cameras. In SLR cameras, it works in Live View mode.

Number of focus points

Modern cameras have a different number of line points that focus when shooting. The focusing module is responsible for the focusing process. It focuses on those areas of the frame that fall into the field of view of points. The number of such points on the camera affects the accuracy of calculating the desired focus object during shooting and the convenience when setting the manual focus mode.
Line points can be horizontal or vertical. The effectiveness of their application depends largely on the objects being photographed. Points with a horizontal orientation focus well on objects with vertical lines. Points in vertical orientation, in turn, focus better on objects with horizontal lines.

Microphone input

When shooting video, one of the main criteria is capturing high-quality sound. Using the microphone built into the camera, it will be quite problematic to achieve good sound on the video due to the presence of extraneous noise (wind, audience hum). To solve this problem, camera manufacturers equip their models with a connector for connecting an external microphone, from which sound is recorded.

Headphone output

This interface can be used to monitor audio through headphones during video recording. Usually, a mini jack 3.5 mm is used as a connector.
It is recommended to use an external microphone and other accessories to get high-quality sound when recording video.

Number of JPEG levels

The number of possible compression levels for images when they are saved as JPEG. JPEG is the most common recording format that compresses the image to save memory. However, the compactness of images is achieved at the expense of quality, since the JPEG format recognizes some data as unimportant during compression and discards them during compression. The higher the image compression, the more photos can fit on the memory card, but the worse the quality will be. In many cameras, the degree of compression, and therefore the quality of the images, can be controlled. By varying the compression levels, you can save either more photos, but lower quality, or fewer photos, but their quality will be higher.

Memory - Memory Stick

The ability to use removable Memory Stick format memory cards in the camera.
Memory Stick is a flash memory card format introduced by Sony, which is used primarily in Sony's digital cameras. At the moment it is one of the most expensive of the existing carriers. In addition to the Memory Stick standard, there are other varieties: Memory Stick Pro, Memory Stick Duo.
Memory Stick dimensions are 50×21.5×2.8 mm.

Memory - Memory Stick Duo

The ability to use removable memory cards in the Memory Stick Duo format in the camera.
This memory standard was developed and maintained by Sony. The body of this card is quite compact and strong enough. The Memory Stick Duo was developed based on the widely used Memory Stick standard from the same Sony, but is not compatible with its connector and is small in size (20x31x1.6 mm). To use a Memory Stick Duo with a device that has a Memory Stick slot, you need to use a dedicated adapter.

Memory - XQD

Possibility of using interchangeable XQD format memory cards in the camera.
Memory cards were announced in 2011, their main difference from other cards is their high data transfer rate (up to 125 Mb/s).
Cards of this standard have dimensions of 38.5 x 29.8 x 3.8 mm.

Maximum memory card capacity

The maximum size of the memory card that the camera can use.
The higher the value of this parameter, the larger the capacity of the card you can use, therefore, you can record more pictures and videos on it. If you already have a large capacity flash card of the right type, you should make sure that the model you choose supports cards of this capacity before buying a camera.

Interface - video

The presence of a composite video interface on the camera.
Composite interface is designed to transfer images to any device displaying video information.
The video output is used to view photos and videos on a TV or to record to a VCR.
It is recommended to use the HD output to transmit high resolution images to HDTV devices.

Interface - Bluetooth

The ability to connect the camera to a computer and other devices via Bluetooth wireless interface.
Bluetooth technology uses short-range radio communication and allows you to establish a high-speed wireless connection at a distance of up to 10 meters.
Using Bluetooth, you can transfer files from the camera to a computer, as well as print photos directly on a dedicated printer equipped with a Bluetooth adapter.

Support for NFC technology.
NFC (Near Field Communication) is a short range wireless communication technology. NFC allows two devices that are close to each other (within a distance of no more than 10 cm) to exchange data.

Battery capacity

The capacity of the battery built into the camera.
A larger battery allows you to take more pictures without recharging.

Maximum movie recording resolution
The maximum video recording resolution of a video-recording camera.
The higher the resolution of the video, the clearer and more detailed the video image can be. The function of recording a video image on a digital camera is not the main one, it serves rather as a pleasant addition to the main functions.

Electronic video stabilization

The presence of the electronic stabilization function during video recording.
When shooting video, camera shake causes the recorded image to shake. Since most of the shooting is done by hand, this is a problem that you will have to deal with quite often.
The electronic stabilization function is implemented through digital image processing using the built-in processor. To form a frame, only a part of the image from the photosensitive matrix is ​​used - a video frame is cut out from the overall image. When shaking, the image shift is tracked, and the video frame moves up or down accordingly within the entire image field from the photomatrix to compensate for this shift. As a result, the recorded image (video frame) remains motionless for the viewer.
The use of stabilization allows you to get rid of unpleasant effects in far from all cases.

Frames per second at 4K (3840×2160)
The maximum number of frames per second when shooting video with a resolution of 3840x2160 pixels.
25 and 50 frames per second are standard in countries with PAL and SECAM broadcast systems (Europe, Asia, Russia), while 30 and 60 frames per second are common in countries with NTSC broadcast standard (USA, Canada, Mexico). , Japan, Philippines and a number of countries in South America).
The camera's support for these frequency sets may depend on the country for which the camera is manufactured. Many cameras are universal: regardless of the region, they have simultaneous support for 25/30 (50/60) frames per second.

MOV video recording

Ability to save the recorded video in MOV format.
The MOV format (or container) was proposed by Apple. To view videos in this format, QuickTime is usually used.

MP4 video recording

Ability to save the recorded video in AVI format.
When describing standards for digital video, two concepts are usually used - video codec and video container. A codec is a method by which video information is compressed, and a container is a file extension. The type of container determines which programs can play this file, the type of codec determines the degree of information compression, image quality.
MP4 is a multimedia container format that can contain audio and video streams, as well as other information. To compress video information, codecs from the MPEG-4 family are usually used.

Using the MJPEG video codec

The ability to save the captured video using the MJPEG codec.
When describing standards for digital video, two concepts are usually used - video codec and video container. A codec is a method by which video information is compressed, and a container is a file extension. The type of container determines which programs can play this file, the type of codec determines the degree of information compression, image quality.
When using the MJPEG (Motion JPEG) codec, each frame is processed separately, and the quality of the video does not depend on the dynamics of the scene. But you have to pay for this with a significantly larger video file size.
Compared to MPEG4 (see "Using the MPEG4 video codec"), video created with the MJPEG codec is much better suited for subsequent editing, since the frames do not depend on each other and you can insert (or cut) video fragments starting from any frame.

HDR shooting

Taking photos with the HDR effect allows you to create high-quality photos in difficult lighting conditions, when the frame contains both bright areas and dark objects. For the highest quality creation of this effect, the camera automatically takes 2-3 frames with different settings and glues them into one.

Orientation sensor

The presence in a digital camera of a special sensor that determines the orientation of the camera (horizontal or vertical) during shooting.
This sensor allows you to automatically flip photos and movies shot vertically when played back on a TV screen or when transferred to a computer. In the latter case, you will need special software that comes with the camera.
In addition, information about the position of the camera is used by automation when determining exposure and white balance.

Frost resistance

The presence of protection against low temperatures in the camera.
Some digital cameras are equipped with low temperature protection. Such models are suitable for work in bad weather.

dust protection

The presence of dust protection significantly affects the choice of camera.
Some digital cameras are equipped with dust protection. Such models are suitable for work in bad weather.

Waterproof case

The presence of a waterproof housing for a digital camera.
SLR cameras often have a waterproof housing. Some models with a waterproof housing are suitable for short-term immersion in water.

The weight of the camera and lens is sometimes the leading factor in choosing a camera.
A digital camera is a fairly mobile device: they take it with them on vacation, they often carry it with them, so when choosing its dimensions and weight, it is far from last.
The size of the camera can be divided into several categories:
- ultra-compact devices weighing up to 200 g. The technical characteristics of such cameras are not the most impressive, but they can easily fit in a woman's handbag or in the breast pocket of a shirt;
- compact cameras, the most common, their weight is up to 300 g. They have higher technical capabilities compared to ultra-compact devices and are quite convenient for transportation;
- advanced, or semi-professional, cameras weighing 400-600 g. Equipped with high-aperture optics, the ability to install an external flash, manual settings for shooting modes;
- professional SLR cameras, the weight of which is from 600 g and above. Equipped with removable lenses, the camera body is usually made of metal, they have the greatest range of technical characteristics.

Advantages and disadvantages of SLR cameras. Description of their main parameters and capabilities. Features of operation.

When choosing a new digital camera, it is worth considering: SLR cameras become cheaper over time, and non-SLR cameras become more expensive, but at the same time they improve many times and in many functions.

SLR cameras, which were originally film, and then improved to digital format, have always been considered the "blue" dream of every amateur photographer. Some amateurs did not buy this type of cameras because of the dimensions, the complexity of controlling the functions and settings of the camera, and the high price.

But a few years later, SLR cameras have become more affordable and affordable, the controls have also improved and become simpler, and the dimensions have become many times smaller than before.

To date, the price of "whale" sets of "reflex cameras" for amateurs, i.e. kits that include a camera with a tripod lens range from $500.

This price is comparable to the price of low-cost non-SLR cameras designed for advanced users, who are called prosumers. Their price is 600-700 dollars.

But the price of SLR cameras continues to drop. They go down due to the fact that some companies appeared on the sales market that had not previously specialized in “DSLRs” and did not release them from production, and due to this, competition for products has increased.

Another factor in the difficulty of choosing a SLR camera is the ever-increasing improvement of non-SLR cameras, because. sometimes they get high-end optics.

Advantages of mirrors

One of the most important and indisputable arguments when purchasing a SLR camera is the largest physical size of the matrices. This characteristic of SLR cameras quite strongly affects the quality of the resulting images.

The larger the camera's matrix, the lower the level of noise (color noise in the image), the most extended range of dynamics (the number of steps in the contrast difference that the camera can capture), and the smallest depth of field. We will sequentially talk about the main characteristics of SLR cameras.

Let's talk about noise first. The more the matrix is ​​​​installed in the camera and the less it works in the process of photo and video shooting, the less noise in the resulting photographs. It is recommended to use optical stabilizer when shooting in low light.

A large matrix has a wider dynamic range, which is its plus. This characteristic allows you to shoot contrasting objects in excellent quality. As before, in terms of dynamic range, the advantage remains with the SLRs.

Features and benefits of optics

Interchangeable lenses are one of the main advantages of SLR cameras. You can choose from a variety of lenses. But for most photography enthusiasts, a non-reflex camera and a lens with a large zoom are sufficient.

Although a large zoom ratio somewhat reduces the optical qualities of the lens, it cannot be said that the quality of photographs suffers. At the same time, the 6-12x "prosumer" zoom lens is compact, which a DSLR with a set of optics cannot boast of.

If we analyze the "drawing" of the lens - "bokeh", then of course there is no alternative to the "mirror", but not every amateur photographer wants to carry kilograms of photographic equipment. And the lenses of inexpensive "reflex cameras" are usually equipped with a 3x zoom.

SLR cameras have a minimum focal length. In the "film" equivalent, it is 28 mm, while non-mirror cameras have 35-38 "equivalent millimeters". This provides a wider shooting angle.

The mechanical zoom drive is another plus of SLR cameras that I would like to draw your attention to. This type of zoom is convenient and does not consume battery power.

It is not worth comparing the standard optics of "prosumers" and "DSLRs" for maximum sharpness, because this parameter is much better for "prosumers", and the optics of "DSLRs" from various manufacturers are very different.

There are "prosumer" models, on which optics from well-known manufacturers are installed, and in many respects it surpasses many standard SLR lenses, such as sharpness, macro photography, a tendency to glare, chromatic aberrations, etc.

Ease of use

Usually SLR cameras with a standard lens are bought for a long time, due to the versatility of the cameras. It should be noted that both cheap and expensive models are multifunctional, and in this parameter they practically do not differ. Their main difference is in ease of use, in the strength of the case, etc. But cameras of the "prosumer" class are in no way inferior to "DSLRs" in their capabilities.

But, how many consumers, so many opinions .... Some people like small DSLRs, others like compact prosumers. They also have many differences. In “DSLRs” (except for one model), sighting on the display is impossible, but if you hold the camera correctly while sighting, then hand tremor and muscle tension decrease. They can't make videos. "SLRs", unlike non-mirror cameras with a rotary display, cannot be removed by holding them above your head.

SLR cameras outperform others (non-reflex cameras) with a high focusing speed and high-quality manual focusing, while for "prosumers" manual focusing is ineffective and is rarely used.

We did a general comparison of DSLRs and non-DSLRs. We think that this will be enough for you to decide on your own whether you need a SLR camera, or "prosumer" will be enough.