Mirrorless vs DSLR Cameras

Whether you’re a professional photographer, an aspiring content creator, or simply someone wanting to capture life’s everyday moments, you’ll need a camera to share your stories. You’ve likely narrowed your choices down to a DSLR camera or a mirrorless camera. Each offers its own advantages, and what you choose will come down to personal preference. This guide will help you understand what works best for you.

The DSLR vs Mirrorless Debate

DSLRs overtook film cameras in the early 2000s. Mirrorless cameras began hitting the market later in the decade, but truly took off in the 2010s. Both types of cameras deliver high-quality images. Both use interchangeable lenses, allowing photographers to use one camera body for multiple photography styles. Both include features that encourage creative experimentation. The key difference is that DSLR cameras use a mirror system to capture images. Beyond that, each offers its own advantages that may influence your buying decision.

Pros of DSLR Cameras

DSLRs use an optical viewfinder – meaning you can see what’s coming through the lens in real time. Keep in mind, though, that depending on the settings, things like exposure or colours could look completely different once you put the camera in playback mode or download your images. Since DSLRs have optical viewfinders and don’t require a screen (electronic viewfinder or LCD) to be on all the time, they generally have a longer battery life, which means more shots per charge. DSLRs do have heftier bodies, but that may make it easier to balance larger lenses. Video capture is a standard feature. Some advanced and professional models offer 4K capture, and professional videographers and filmmakers trust Canon’s EOS System for their work.

Situations Where DSLRs Shine

If you’re just stepping up to an interchangeable lens camera, a DSLR is a good starting point from a budget point of view. Their long battery life makes them ideal for day trips, nature walks, and other excursions where you won’t have the ability to recharge. The cameras also offer outstanding autofocus on moving subjects – think wildlife, sports, and events.

Tips for Beginners

You’ve bought your camera, and now you’re ready to use it. First thing, brush up on your basic photography terms and settings. Next, take advantage of the free resources available. Check out our various how-to guides – including primers on action photography and landscape photography – in our Photography Tips section.

Canon Canada also has its Creator Lab program, which provides enthusiasts and professionals with access to special events, gear, education, support, and a community to expand their skills and knowledge. And you can learn fundamentals and advanced techniques by taking Canon Online Classes.

Pro Tips for Maximizing Your Camera’s Potential

To get the most out of your camera, familiarize yourself with its capabilities. Start by exploring the manual. No need to memorize every page, but the manual will outline all the features of your camera and how to use them. And take lots of photos! That’s how you’ll get better and how you’ll become more comfortable with everything your camera can do.

Basic Photography Tips for Any Camera

Whether you’ve chosen a mirrorless camera or a DSLR camera, try these introductory tips to help capture high-quality images:

• Utilize the rule of thirds. This composition guideline suggests placing your subject at intersecting lines to create a more visually interesting image.
• Shoot in multiple modes. Auto Mode will set the aperture and shutter speed for you. Try Manual Mode, Aperture Priority Mode, and Shutter Priority Mode to take more creative control of your shots.
• Use a tripod when photographing stationary subjects. With your subject not going anywhere – think landscape photography – a tripod helps ensure stability and picture sharpness.
• Change your angle or position. Instead of simply shooting your subject from eye level, try capturing it from above or below, or physically moving yourself to set up a new viewpoint.