DSLR vs Mirrorless cameras for traveling. Which is best?
Imagine you are flying to your dream travel destination. The most important thing you don’t want to be concerned about is whether you got the right camera for your next adventure. Two popular options are DSLR vs. Mirrorless, but both of them have different benefits and drawbacks. This is why, we are going to check out both of them, to help you decide which one suits you best.
What are the main differences between DSLR and Mirrorless cameras?
To make it simple, the key difference between both of them is that the DLSR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) has a mirror inside, while the Mirrorless doesn’t.
The mirror is used inside of the camera body to reflect the light from the lens to the optical viewfinder, allowing you to compose your photo. It is optical because what you see is the light and the image the camera sees. However, a camera without a mirror, makes the light hit directly the sensor without being reflected. This allows a preview to be shown via an electronic viewfinder or screen.
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What are the benefits of a Mirrorless Camera for travelling?
An important benefit for travelling is that mirrorless cameras tend to be smaller and lighter than DSLRs, which makes them easier to pack and carry. Likewise, they are much quieter to operate, with the option to shoot silently, using an electronic shutter. The latter can help you blend in better and be discreet, especially if you want to photograph wildlife or street photography.
Many mirrorless cameras are great at image stabilisation, which can be helpful to reduce shaky footage and can correct blurry photos up to several stops. By doing so, you can use slower shutter speeds and have more control over the outcome.
In the past years, Mirrorless autofocus systems have improved greatly, as well as the video quality, with the options to shoot in a 4K and sometimes even 8K resolution, at various frame rates, like the Sony A7R V. By being hybrid, you can use them for photography and video, which is quite important for many travel photographers who are aspiring to use their camera also for filming. As for lowlight shooting, DSLRs have historically had the upper hand. However, this has started to change as well, with champions such as the Canon EOS R6.
The benefits of the different viewfinders between the two systems are often debated since it comes down to personal preference. Some photographers might prefer an electronic viewfinder since you can always see how parameters such as shutter speed, ISO etc. change the final image, while others might prefer to use an optical viewfinder to see the same as the camera sees.
What are the benefits of a DSLR for travelling?
Undoubtedly, one of the biggest benefits of a DSLR is the battery life. Especially, when photographing or filming while travelling for long stretches outdoors. Mirrorless image sensors are enduringly active, which drains the battery quite fast. Extra batteries aren’t too expensive, but still, it’s an added inconvenience to keep in mind.
Another perk, especially for your wallet is that you can purchase an entry to mid-level DSLR camera at a favourable price and still get good specs. Since only a few new models have appeared in the last years, they are generally more affordable. As a result, you’d be able to find good cameras for a good deal, such as the Canon EOS Rebel SL3. However, cheaper Mirrorless cameras will mostly be lacking resolution and a viewfinder.
Some shooters also prefer the design and feel of a DSLR, which of course comes down to personal preference. Especially, while travelling without a tripod some photographers say that a heavier camera provides a more stable and balanced shooting platform.
Mirrorless or DSLR: which one is best for a beginner?
If you’re new to photography, and you’re keen to be up to date with the latest technology, or you plan on having a camera that can shoot good quality photos and videos, then it would probably be a good idea to consider buying a mirrorless like the Nikon Z50. However, if you are on a strict budget, and for now plan on getting to know the basics of photography, then you should go for a DSLR.
Do professionals prefer Mirrorless or DSLR?
It depends a bit on the job at hand. Some photographers have been using DSLR for years and are perfectly happy with the results, for instance, if they work in a studio. Others use a combination of both of them, such as a mirrorless camera with a DSLR lens and adapter. Finally, many of them also use mirrorless cameras such as the Nikon Z9 since they prefer their autofocus, video quality or portability.
Which camera is better for travelling, Mirrorless or DSLR? Conclusion:
In the end, it all comes down to personal taste and preference. If you are on a strict budget or want a camera with a long battery life for your trip, you’ll be good to go with a DSLR. However, if budget is less of an issue, and you want to travel light with a smaller camera that can also shoot good-quality videos and photos, then a Mirrorless camera would be the right fit for you.
