When it comes to cameras and lenses, the choices you make can significantly impact your photography journey. Personally, I shoot with a Canon 6D Mark II, a full-frame camera that has elevated my work and I primarily us an 85mm f/1.8. However, I started out with a crop sensor camera, a Canon Rebel T7 and a kit lens for the first year of my journey before I was ready to upgrade. So, what are some factors that influenced my decision when upgrading? Let's explore.
Cameras
Crop Sensor vs. Full Frame Sensor....What’s the Difference?
Crop Sensor (APS-C)
Size: A crop sensor, like the one in the Canon Rebel T7, is smaller than a full-frame sensor. This means that the area that captures light and creates your image is reduced.
Field of View: Because of its smaller size, a crop sensor effectively multiplies the focal length of your lens. For example, a 50mm lens on a crop sensor camera might give you a field of view similar to an 80mm lens on a full-frame camera. This is known as the crop factor (typically around 1.6x for APS-C sensors).
Depth of Field: Crop sensors generally have a greater depth of field compared to full-frame sensors at the same aperture and framing. This can make it easier to keep more of your image in focus, but it also means you might need to work harder to achieve that beautifully blurred background.
Full Frame Sensor
Size: A full-frame sensor is larger, equivalent to the size of a 35mm film frame. This allows for a broader field of view and more light capture.
Field of View: With a full-frame sensor, you get a true representation of your lens’s focal length. A 50mm lens will give you a 50mm field of view, which can be advantageous for achieving a natural perspective in your images.
Depth of Field: Full-frame sensors provide a shallower depth of field at the same aperture compared to crop sensors. This means you can achieve more pronounced background blur, which is often desirable for portrait and artistic photography.
When it comes to cameras, sensors are just the beginning. The world of photography offers a wide variety of cameras, but they generally fall into two main categories: DSLR and Mirrorless. So, what sets these two types apart, and how do you choose between them?
Mirrorless vs. DSLR...What's the difference?
DSLR Cameras
How They Work: DSLR stands for Digital Single-Lens Reflex. Inside a DSLR, there’s a mirror that flips up when you take a photo. This mirror reflects light from the lens up into an optical viewfinder, allowing you to see exactly what the camera sees. When you press the shutter button, the mirror flips up out of the way, and light hits the sensor to capture the image.
Pros: DSLRs typically have longer battery life and an optical viewfinder that provides a direct view through the lens. They also often offer a wide range of lenses and accessories.
Cons: They are usually larger and heavier, which can make them less convenient for carrying around. The moving mirror and mechanical parts can also make them louder when taking photos.
Mirrorless Cameras
How They Work: As the name suggests, mirrorless cameras don’t have a mirror. Instead, light passes directly through the lens to a digital sensor. This sensor displays the image on an electronic viewfinder or the camera’s LCD screen, so you see a digital preview of your shot.
Pros: Mirrorless cameras are typically smaller and lighter than DSLRs, making them more portable. They also offer quieter shooting because there are no moving mirrors. Many mirrorless cameras have advanced features like faster autofocus and video capabilities.
Cons: Battery life can be shorter compared to DSLRs, and some models may have fewer lens and accessory options, though this is changing as technology advances.
Exploring Mirrorless and DSLR Entry-Level Options
In addition to traditional DSLRs, mirrorless cameras have become increasingly popular due to their compact size and advanced technology. Here are a couple of entry-level mirrorless options that offer great value:
Canon EOS M50 Mark II
Type: Mirrorless
Sensor: APS-C
Features: Compact design, excellent autofocus, and a vari-angle touchscreen. It’s a great option for beginners looking to get into mirrorless photography without breaking the bank.
Sony Alpha a6000
Type: Mirrorless
Sensor: APS-C
Features: Fast autofocus, continuous shooting capabilities, and a compact design. It’s an entry-level mirrorless camera that provides high-quality images and versatility.
Canon EOS Rebel T7 / EOS 2000D
Type: DSLR
Sensor: APS-C
Features: Budget-friendly, user-friendly interface, and a solid entry-level DSLR that offers good image quality and ease of use. It’s ideal for those who want a reliable camera without a significant investment.
Choosing the Right Camera for You
If you’re just starting out, a crop sensor camera like the Canon Rebel T7 or an entry-level mirrorless option such as the Canon EOS M50 Mark II or Sony Alpha a6000 are excellent choices. These cameras are more affordable and versatile for many shooting situations. As you grow and refine your skills, you might consider upgrading to a full-frame camera like the Canon 6D Mark II, which offers more flexibility and higher image quality, especially in low-light conditions. Or if you plan on shooting weddings you may find yourself in need of additional features, such as dual SD card slots. The choice really comes down to your intention for use as well.
Remember, while the sensor and camera type are important, your creativity, technique, and the lens you choose will have a significant impact on your photography as well. And speaking of lenses, I think it's time we explore some of the available options and their differences.
Lenses
Understanding Focal Length
The “mm” next to a lens refers to its focal length, measured in millimeters. This number indicates how zoomed in or out the lens can make your images. For example, a 35mm lens is considered a standard lens, giving a field of view similar to what the human eye sees, making it great for everyday photography and portraits. A 50mm lens is often used for portraits because it provides a nice balance of perspective and background blur. Compared to a 35mm lens, your image would appear more "zoomed in" using a 50mm lens. On the other hand, a 24-70mm lens is a zoom lens, meaning it can vary its focal length between 24mm and 70mm. This versatility allows you to zoom in and out without changing lenses, making it ideal for dynamic shooting situations like events or travel where you need a range of focal lengths in one lens. By understanding focal lengths, you can choose the lens that best suits your photography needs.
Understanding Camera Mount Labels
Camera mount labels indicate the type of lens mount a camera uses, which determines lens compatibility. For instance, Canon’s EF mount is used with their DSLR cameras, while the RF mount is designed for their mirrorless systems, offering advanced features and performance. Nikon’s F mount is for their DSLRs, but with the FTZ adapter, it’s possible to use these lenses on their newer Z-series mirrorless cameras. Sony uses the E mount for both their APS-C and full-frame mirrorless cameras, supporting a wide range of lenses including those from third-party manufacturers. Each mount type is brand-specific, so selecting lenses that match your camera’s mount or using the correct adapter is crucial for ensuring compatibility and optimal performance.
Understanding Maximum Aperture Size
The maximum aperture size of a lens, indicated by numbers like f/1.8 or f/2.8, refers to the largest opening through which light can pass into the camera. A smaller f-number represents a larger aperture, allowing more light to enter and enabling better performance in low-light conditions. Lenses can have either a fixed or variable aperture. A fixed aperture lens, such as one with a maximum aperture of f/1.8, maintains this wide aperture throughout the zoom range, providing consistent low-light performance and depth of field. In contrast, a variable aperture lens, like one with a maximum aperture of f/3.5-5.6, changes its aperture size depending on the zoom level, typically becoming smaller (less light) as you zoom in. Fixed aperture lenses are often preferred for their superior light-gathering ability and consistent exposure control, while variable aperture lenses can be more affordable and versatile.
So now when you're browsing marketplace and you see a EF 85mm lens for sale, you might have a better idea of what you're looking at, and you might have a better idea of what type of lens would work for you.
So, there you have it—whether you’re eyeing a trusty Canon Rebel T7, an entry-level mirrorless like the Canon EOS M50 Mark II, or a budget-friendly Sony Alpha a6000, each camera offers something special for beginners. And don’t forget about lenses! Whether you’re working with a versatile zoom lens or a prime lens with a fixed aperture, knowing what they do can really elevate your photography game. At the end of the day, it’s all about finding what works best for you and letting your creativity shine. With the right gear and a clear vision, you’re all set to capture amazing moments and bring your photography dreams to life.
I can't wait to see the magic you create.
-Kaylee
Kaylee@EdensFocusPhotography.com
