Some of you may have already heard about them. For those who haven't, these systems are a new breed of cameras that share similar functionalities to DSLR cameras but are much smaller in physical size. There is a possibility that it may even have more features than the DLSR you currently own. Now that's truly EVIL. One such system is the Sony NEX 5.
EVIL stands for Electronic Viewfinder Interchangeable Lens. Unlike the DSLR camera it doesn't have a through the lens optical viewfinder which is probably one of the main reasons why DSLR cameras are so big. Like DSLR cameras, you have the ability to change lenses.
So what's the big deal about these cameras? Aren't DSLR cameras the way to go?
To answer these questions, lets look at some of its pros and cons.
- Depending on the brand and model, the sensor size may be similar to the DSLR counter parts. This is the case for the Sony NEX 3 and NEX 5. Both these systems use an Advanced Photo System type-C (APS-C) sensor, which are the same as what you will find in the entry level DSLR cameras in the Sony Alpha line. Compared to the sensors in your PnS camera, these sensors are about 9 times larger! This means you can take better pictures in lower lighted environments in comparison to the PnS cameras.
- As the systems are smaller, these systems are extremely portable (fits nicely into your hand bag) and light. This also means that the camera body is too small to place the same number of hard buttons as DSLR cameras. You may have to navigate in a menu to access certain functionalities.
- At this point in time, optical view finders are still preferred by professionals as its easier to see your subject in poorly lighted environments. However, technology may improve in the near future. Who knows, we may have night vision features like what's offered in some Handy cams one day.
- As EVIL cameras are relatively new in the market, they offer some of the latest features that digital cameras can offer. The Sony NEX 3 and NEX 5 have the ability to take HD videos, Sweep Panorama shots, 3D shots, auto HDR and more. None of these features are available with the DSLR camera that I own and use.
- As these systems are quite advanced, they cost as much as entry level DSLR cameras. Sometimes a little more than the cheapest DSLR cameras in the market.
So how do I decide on which type of camera is best for me?
You should get a PnS camera if
- You are on a tight budget.
- High quality pictures and low light capability are not important.
- You want a small digital camera that performs better than your mobile phone.
You should get an EVIL camera if
- You have a higher budget.
- Quality pictures and low light capability is important to you.
- You want your system to be small enough to fit into your handbag or maybe even into your pocket.
- You want the ability to change lens.
- Your main objective for using a digital camera are for casual shoots only e.g. group shots with your friends, travel pictures when you go for a business trip etc.
You should get a DSLR camera if
- You are a serious about photography and wish to explore all it has to offer (e.g. usage of a wide range of accessories to get interesting results).
- the genres of photography that you are interested in require to be able to change your camera settings quickly e.g. weddings.
- You intend to do photography professionally.
There are sensors that are bigger than the APS-C sensor, which offers other benefits. However, these systems are preferred by a totally different group of people with different requirements. I hope what I have written so far would give you a good idea about EVIL cameras and how you might prefer getting one to a DSLR camera. Cheers!
Darren Francis is an Award Winning Photographer from Singapore. He provides a wide range of photography services including wedding photography and is an experienced photography trainer as well.
If you would like to view more of his works and photography tips, kindly visit his website: http://www.darrenf.com.
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