Thanks to the digital revolution, photography has become more accessible to everyone because the costs have significantly decreased compared to the days when film was used.
One of the first things that aspiring photographers consider is the type of camera to use. The question “Which camera should I buy?” is a common concern for all photographers.
To address this question, it’s important to consider the basic characteristics of different types of cameras.
Compact cameras, low-end models have mostly been replaced by smartphones, there are high-end models on the market that many professionals use as a second camera; they generally perform less well than mirrorless and SLR cameras, as they have a smaller sensor and lower quality lenses.
Bridge cameras are characterised by a lens with a large focal length range. A large focal length also entails greater optical compromises and thus lower image quality, they are nothing more than compact cameras with an exaggerated zoom, they are useful for experimenting with different focal lengths, they do it all and badly.
Reflex Cameras, these are cameras with interchangeable lenses and the presence of a mirror, still widely used by professionals, especially those with a full frame sensor.
Mirrorless cameras, like SLR cameras, they have interchangeable lenses, but no mirror in front of the sensor, which makes them less heavy and bulky. The sensor size of this type of camera varies depending on the manufacturer, mirrorless cameras are gradually replacing SLRs.
Medium format cameras have a larger sensor than a full frame. They are cameras designed for professionals in studio and landscape photography. They have a large dynamic range, very low noise at high ISO and a high megapixel count; from this combination comes great image quality. The cost of these cameras is prohibitive for most people.
In the next chapters I will make a comparison of the sensors in the various types of cameras.
