|
All right, let's get to it.
Let's roll up our sleeves and figure out just WHAT all these mirrorless digital SLR terms really mean.
For starters, it will probably help everyone involved if we answer two questions:
- What is a mirrorless digital SLR?
- How does a mirrorless DSLR differ from a normal DSLR?
With that out of the way, we can dig deeper.
No, you don't have to understand ALL of the terminology that follows to go out and purchase one of these cameras.
But getting a grasp about things like image stabilization and face-detection autofocus will help you sort out what you want vs. what you need and will lead you to a more informed purchase. See you later, buyer's remorse.
Plus, if any slick fast-talking salesperson tries to coax you into more camera than you need, you'll be able to say "no thanks" with conviction.
| Megapixels | A higher megpixel count lets you print photos at larger sizes - that's it. More megapixels do NOT result in higher-quality images. |
|---|
| ISO and Image Noise | High ISO settings help you take photos in very dim light, but come with a drawback: specks appear in the image, also called "noise". |
|---|
| Sensor Size | When it comes to sensors, larger IS better, especially if you want to take photos in dim light. |
|---|
| Micro 4/3rds | This format is jointly used by Olympus and Panasonic and lets you swap lenses between manufacturers. |
|---|
| Video Modes | When selecting a video option, carefully consider HOW you want to playback your movies. |
|---|
| Image Stabilization | Image Stabilization (IS) systems help to ensure that your photos look clear, but ONLY if the subject isn't moving. |
|---|
| LCD Screens | LCD screens come in different sizes and with different levels of clarity...and some flip out from the camera body. |
|---|
| Viewfinders | Since mirrorless DSLRs don't have optical viewfinders, you'll need to consider the alternatives. |
|---|
|
|
|
