For me, the major disadvantages of upgrading from my Nikon 500 to the Z9 is high price and extra weight I would need to carry. I will stay with my current setup for the foreseeable future.
Found you from a B&H video. Absolutely loved your presentation. Just got a 200-500 for my Nikon Z6. There is no doubt your videos will help me out. Will also be purchasing some of your books. Thanks for the videos.
I have to say this probably the best explainer I've seen on the key differences between mirrorless and DSLRs, regardless of photographic subject. Bravo, Steve! This was extremely clear, and you have examples with photos to back it all up. I think the future is looking bright for photographers, both pros and hobbyists.
Hi Steve. I just switched from Nikon Z6ii to Nikon D5. Although I miss the EVF and the ability to tilt the screen, I love the D5 wow. I was able to get my hands on a D5 in mint like new condition for $2,500.00 less that switching to the Z9. I have seen the reviews of the Z9 but very happy with the D5. I think you for the videos. Thank you sir
I bought a new D500 last year (used a D7200 for years) and dont regret it for the price/performance. There is no doubt that mirrorless is the best option going forward, but as someone who is just a hobbiest, for £3,000-ish you can have a very capable wildlife setup (D500 plus 200-500 VR). Its a great time to get into the hobby.
Wonderful job. I'm glad you are willing to point out weaknesses of your favorite brand. Also, this is the most thorough coverage of negatives of mirrorless I have seen.
This was a great high level review, I agree with all the viewpoints and totally appreciate that you noted the background focus and slow wake experience. Both are really minor, but appear huge to anyone with lots of solid dslr experience. But the strength of wysiwyg is just awesome. I will have to try a Canon or Sony soon, as the af performance of nikon has been my biggest frustration so far. Thanks for your HELP!! And WOW, the photos you included are absolutely incredible (Kingfisher in flight, racoon face in curly brush, and so on😍😍)!!
Correction And Pain Of Clarification: Correction - I mention that mirrorless do not have cross-type AF but there is an exception - Olympus does. That's the trick with making a generalized video, there's always an exception out there somewhere... Point of clarification - I mention in the video to turn off your rear LCD to conserve battery life and many have pointed out the CIPA tests show using the rear LCD instead of he EVF can, with some cameras, actually result in longer (not shorter) battery life. However, that's really not what I was trying to say. When shooting with most mirrorless cameras using the EVF, when you back off from the eyepiece the camera automatically switches to the rear LCD. If you keep the rear LCD turned off, when you back away from the eyepiece the camera instantly shuts off the EVF and doesn't turn on the rear LCD - saving some battery life (when you move back, the EVF will pop back on, as long as the camera hasn't gone into standby mode). Note that this doesn't necessarily apply to every camera - it does for Nikon and Sony but my Canon R5 does not cut off the EVF when I back out. At any rate, with the cameras that this does work with, it seems to have helped my battery life.
both sony and canon have much better af than olympus, which proves how little cross-points matter in the milc world... stacked sensors for instance are a far bigger defining factor when it comes to af capability, and so is a.i. for that matter, as canon showed with r5 bird eyeaf, when sony didn't have it on the a9/a9ii.
#7 “Mirrorless Cameras Love Backgrounds”. Excellent and helpful observation. I learned this quickly after moving to the R5 and have deployed the solutions outlined here.
It's great to see that mirrorless is come a long way since 2018. The reasons I switched from Nikon DSLR to Lumix G9 in 2018 was the improved EVF, stabilization, processor speed/burst rate, battery life, 4K video quality, and the start up speed. Since then, my G9 is a different camera due to the regular and innovative firmware updates. Nevertheless, thanks for making this video Steve. It's great to see you warming up to and making the move to mirrorless. With your skills and ability, and the ability of powerful mirrorless systems, I know you'll be finding new techniques and setting new cutting edge style of wildlife photography. Much like you've done with the Nikon DSLR system. Look forward to more of your wildlife tips and gear tips.
More like 2013 when Sony first released their pro full-frame Sony a7. They were the only ones who were heavily invested into mirrorless while Canon and Nikon were still sitting around twirling their fingers. Glad Sony led the way and woke those 2 guys up.
Great information and I bought the Z9! At this point the only issue I have is at times the focus issue you mentioned about finding the flower, then it finds the background and doesn’t find the flower, as in your video. Great battery life with the Z9 and really like the tracking features!!
I like this summary. I keep hearing that mirrorless is the future of photography, similar to digital replacing film in the past. I’m not at all against mirrorless. But in my opinion, they’re still too new for me to jump onboard just yet. Some quirks, like the EVF lag and slow startup, need some time for technology to improve on them. And I agree, they’ll get there. But DSLRs have been around long enough to be pretty much perfected. This is one reason why there’s such a price gap. For the price of a mid-level mirrorless, you can get a pretty sweet DSLR. But as technology advances, I’m sure the prices of worthwhile mirrorless bodies will go down as the definition of “high-end” changes. I don’t exactly have $6k lying around for a Canon R3!
Thank's Steve for a very informative video on mirrorless cameras, I use a DLSR Nikon D810 mainly for weddings and portraits so I think the Nikon D850 would be a good investment.
Another concise video. Thanks Steve. I am waiting eagerly for the Z9 as I find that my Z6 is not even close to the speed of AF tracking of my trusty old beast D4 (yes OLD!). Having said that I am starting to love the Z6 for many other reasons and certainly favour it way above my D810, which I rarely use now. Your books are invaluable.
Just saw the video now - a great summary of pros and cons! One thing I like to add is that for Nikon some Z lenses beat the DSLR lenses hands down (though I got some good F-mount lenses too).
Thanks for confirming what I thought about mirrorless vs. DSLR! I’ll be using my D500 until Nikon gets their prices down and hopefully there will be an affordable option! Great info, as always!
I am still shooting with a d810 (not for wildlife) and my d4s. However after returning from a weeks trip to my home state of Wyoming and me getting long on the tooth I am thinking of trading my DSLR's and all my glass. Maybe not, no rush. Your videos like this one gives me pause to reconsider. I have only had one ML camera in my hand a used Sony a7RlV. The files size is way more then I need on that camera. Will be reading and watching and one day I may decide to change systems to ML.
The Panasonic G9 and the Olympus E-M1(II, III, 1x) have a good size grip area. The Fujifilm and many of the Sony have almost no grip at the front and do not make for easy holding and prolonged use. Also having the EVF off to the left, what is with that.
I agree that mirrorless has more advantages than disadvantages. I shoot with a z6 II now and I'm loving it. My keeper rate for portraits has gone up since I no longer have to focus and recompose. I can concentrate more on framing up the shot and looking at how the person is posed rather than if I'm in focus. I can't wait until the 200-600mm comes out. I have the money now for it. I'm going to pre order as soon as they start taking orders for it.
Thank you. I love your tips. I am a hobbiest and now willing to wait for a camera that is highly popular to buy . Even though I shoot canon your tips are transformale to my brand.
Thank you for another informative video. I have been using the Nikon D850 which I love, have the D500 but do not use it as often and enjoy a number of lenses. I have the Z9 on order but still on the fence about going through with it. Ordered it (with a deposit) in February. It seems to be a game changer for wildlife/birds with the eye detect feature and of course the added FPS. But when holding the Z9, at least for me with small hands, it is quite a brick and wonder when hand holding in the field if you or anyone notes a challenge. I do not have a battery pack on my D850 so not used to the extra bulk. Maybe that just takes time. Thanks again for this video
I've run into the background focusing problem with the Z6II while shooting Beach volleyball. I couldn't figure out why the camera was focusing on the background!!!
As you so adequately mention one of the biggest impediments for a amateur hobbyist photographer on a budget is price. I presently use a Nikon D500 and there is nothing in mirrorless that can match this camera for the price I paid for it. Mirrorless manufacturers keep saying how their cameras are of a simpler design with fewer moving parts, smaller etc but the cost is very high in comparison to a DSLR of equal measure. Obviously mirrorless is likely much more profitable for the manufacturer, distributors and retailers then the equivalent DSLR. Right now my cost to switch including repurchasing equal native lenses from what I have now is just cost prohibitive.
As an amateur I have moved from primarily using a Canon 80D to the R6, and although I still have to 80D, I can't imagine using it as anything other than a backup. The improved performance at higher iso and the autofocus are for me the main advantages. Having said that I spent this morning trying to photograph dragonflies in flight, and the R6 and Sigma 150-600C couldn't cope with the reeds in the background, and I found I had to resort to manual focus, however once they moved to a less cluttered background it caught back on again.
Always reliable and extremely knowledgeable advice, Steve 🙌🏻 Just made a small contribution; wrong not to if able, given the quality content you obviously work so hard to put out 👍🏻
Traded in my d5 and 600 f4, imported a Sony 200-600 & macro, to many advantages for me, mainly my shoulders and age was the main excuse, agree on battery and wake times, tolerating the rest.
That was an excellent summary Steve, I wonder how long it will be before any of us still use our DSLR's, exciting times. Will you share at some point what your preferences are as you experiment with different brands, that would be great to hear. Stay safe buddy. PS I'm also hoping the Z9 is a larger form factor, Z6&7 are a touch small!
Thanks so much for a (for me) well timed video. I gave been struggling with this decision for almost a year. Your consice information is just what I needed. Now just to decide which one! :)
Another wildlife photographer pointed out another benefit with mirrorless - if you shoot water fowl close to the surface of the water, you can focus with the tilt screen with the full benefit and performance of the AF. With DSLRs, it is contrast detect only in live view mode which doesn't quite have the same performance.
As you mentioned in the video, mirrorless cameras really only become notably better when your budget for only the body is well over 3 grand so I think for a lot of people they would still be better off with dslrs.
Hey Steve - Thanks for the umpteenth excellent, well thought out, detailed and appropriate video on the DSLR (D camera) to Mirrorless (M camera) question. You are the Best. I realize that that video & this comment are 2 years old but here's some current comment. I'm considering making The Switch - D to M - so I wrote down and pondered your 8 or 10 advantages and disadvantages. It appears that, as you predicted, many of the disadvantages (slow turn on, battery life, native lens availability, etc.) have evaporated in the last 2 years as M cameras have improved. So I'm left with advantages being silent shutter, enhanced frame rate (at least for the high dollar M cameras), AF tracking, larger lens mounts (which actually may mean lots of expensive glass in my future but that's just a budget thing), - apologies if I missed any other biggies. Which kind of leaves me scratching my head as to why a big splash out in $$$'s is a good idea when the advantages don't seem all that significant when weighed against DSLR's that work great, use a stellar collection of great (and getting cheaper) glass, and which give excellent, wall hanger, results. Don't get me wrong, I'm a big fan of new tech - love it in fact. But this M camera thing seems like an expensive bridge too far. On the other hand, M cameras, like SUV's, are just where we're headed so hang on for the ride. If you're busy don't bother with answering this comment as the D to M camera transition has been hammered in forums for years. But these are my thoughts. All the best to you and yours. Jack
My advice? Rent a mirrorless camera and lens for a week and give it a try. I can tell you that my keeper rate has never been higher than it is - and at least part of that is due to the better tech / speed of mirrorless cameras. You can still get great shots with DSLRs of course - heck, you can still get great shots with film cameras - but mirrorless really has an edge and I think it's worth trying it yourself :)
Thanks Steve. Yep, agreed on the way forward - renting a mirrorless and planning out a birding trip is already in the works for me - gotta check it out. Jack @@backcountrygallery
Would like to hear you address the aspect of the quiet shutter on mirrorless. Affect on wildlife disturbance, courtesy in group situations, etc. I’m heavily invested in Nikon dslr gear but would think of a mirrorless body for situations where a clacking shutter would be problematic.
Thanks for your timely video.. I'm kind of a new bird photographer and was thinking of upgrading to mirrorless from D500.. As you pointed out, the reviews I get with Nikon mirrorless systems are putting me on hold.. I really hope Nikon will come up with a truly great mirrorless soon.. Thanks for your video
Great overview Steve - mirrorless has been an absolute game changer for me (also for video work) and I'm really looking forward to seeing where the technology goes in the next few years!
Great review of all pros and cons! But thank God for Canon, for giving people relatively inexpensive yet very competetive way to get to the high end mirrorless - The R6. Its not an A1, or R3 but at 1/3 of the price and tons of pro features i feel i spent my money well for a change, and don't miss the old Canon/Nikon bodies at all. Highly recommended entry point, and perfect for utilizing the old EF lenses!
Good analysis Steve but I disagree on only evf on saves battery than the display on. I have experienced the evf has high fps and resolution than screen back of the camera in modern cameras which chews more battery. This is supported by numbers by cipa as well.
I'm just passing along what I experience in the field. I think some of the reason is that when I am on EVF only mode, the camera doesn't switch to the LCD when I pull back from the camera and run that for awhile. The only time the display (EVF) is on is when my eye is to the viewfinder. CIPA doesn't' test for that :)
Excellent video Steve. I currently have the D850 and the Z7ii and always use the D850 if I am expecting fast action. However I am planning to get the Z9 as soon as possible and hopefully that will be my go to for fast action in the future.
Good video Steve very well balanced and covers almost everything. Funny I noticed the focus think once in a while. I shoot the Canon R5 and really like that you can charge the batteries in the camera. I carry an external battery pack and plug it in when I'm moving (driving) from one place to another. It helps to keep them charged enough to always have power. The Canon adapter works so well with the EF mount lens that although I will move to the RF at some point I don't see replacing my 600mm just to get the same 600mm they boled the adapter to. Eye-tracking is great and allows you to work composing the shot vs just trying to focus like before with a DLSR. If you have the money and want more keepers for BIF, etc. then I think they are the way to go. I also like my 45mp as a small crop and still have more photo than my 1Dxmk2. I printed your book, wow 500 pages! Can't wait to start reading it. Hoping Canon R1 keeps the 45mp and combines the best things from the R3. After having 45mp to crop and print big with I can't see going backward with the R3. I think they could have gotten the speed with the 45mp, but if the R1 has the mp and speed the reason was they didn't want to kill off sales of the R1.
Thanks for the kind words :) We just started really shooting the R5 and it's a heck of a camera. I too am curious about the R1 - I have a feeling it may blow everything else away when it's finally launched. Just the rumors for the R3 are impressive (although I agree about the 24MP - but - if it's the lowest noise anyone has ever seen, maybe that changes things :) )
I used to use a D500 for my casual wildlife photography, but now use a Z50 with an adapted Tamron 100-400 and so far it seems to be working good. Like you mentioned, the ability to move the autofocus point throughout most of the viewfinder range is a huge advantage. At this point, my D500 feels bulky and I get frustrated trying to use it.
Hi Steve, I think you missed sensor stabilization. Is it a think in wildlife photography. I think so if you are hand holding and have a fast moving subject which tends to vanish quickly.
IBIS isn't very effective over 50 ~ 100mm, so it's not a big advantage for wildlife shooters. You need in-lens stabilization for longer glass, the sensor just can't move enough to compensate for a telephoto.
I was into mirrorless about 10 years ago with the Sony 5N. At that time the focus system was only contrast, and the system was not great overall. Have since upgraded to the 6000, and then the 6400. Major improvement over the years! I still wonder about the ergonomics of have a small camera attached to a huge lens, but then you can buy add-on battery grips etc. to deal with that. Over the years I though that both Nikon and Canon should keep the feel of their bodies while converting to mirrorless. It seems like they are finally going in that direction. It will make it more attractive for DSLR users to adapt to mirrorless.
I thought you made some excellent points with your review. It takes some pretty expensive, high-end mirrorless gear to exceed the capabilities of more moderately priced DSLR's but I think that gap is closing with the introduction of cameras like the Canon R6. So much of the shooting experience with a mirrorless camera hinges on the quality of the EVF.
With price one should also consider that now is the moment when people will transition from dslrs to mirrorless what means more second hand dslr gear in good condition will be available
I am saving up for when Nikon releases a Z mount Phase Fresnel between 300mm and 600mm. A Z9 or Z7III with faster autofocus, more frames per second, and a lightweight native PF lens. That is my dream kit.
On Nikon D3500 I've got a AF point for each rule if thirds crossing point (although only line-type), which is quite convenient 🙂 I don't know how other DSLRs have it. I agree that 5 fps for birds in flight, but better than my point and shoot camera that did 5 shots quickly and then I had to wait for like 5 or 7 seconds to start shooting again.
Waiting and saving…Z9…cannot wait to see your video about the new Beast. Could this be the new…D850 to save Nikon??? Thank you so much Steve for these great videos. Have bought 2 ebooks and often refer to them.
@@backcountrygallery how do you feel about the built in TC on that prime lens? The 400 2.8 is so nice with both a 1.4x or 2x TC, but with a 1.4x built in, no one can really enjoy the benefits of the 2x ...that's at least my interpretation, what are your thoughts, Steve?
@@coreybrooks3493 I feel like there's a 100% chance you can disengage the 1.4 and stick a 2X on the back. Heck, you can problem use both!! Won't know for sur until it's out, but if you can't use a 2X with a 400 2.8, it would be a deal breaker for many.
I appreciate the review. I love that I have both. Yes the Z9 is going to be fascinating when it arrives but too much money for me. That's okay. I'm excited for updates to my Z7 II as well.
Howdy, Steve, Thanks for yet another informative and well presented video. I guess I'm swimming against the current flow, but I, for one, have no interest whatsoever in getting into Mirrorless gear. I have invested a lot in gathering what, to me, is my dream system, and for me, it does everything I want it to do, quite wonderfully. I have two D750 bodies, a D700, a D7100, and my first Nikon camera, a D7000. I only keep the D7K for going back packing, as I do not wish to risk taking my other bodies along on those sorts of trips. For lenses, I have the Nikon Trilogy, the only exception is the f2.8E FL ED, instead of the older versions of that lens. My favorite DX lens is the 17-55 f2.8G, and again, this is a great lens, IMHO. The only change I would possibly make is to replace the 7100 with a D500. But, I'm in no hurry about that, right now. In any case, thank you for your outstanding videos, from which I've learned a great deal! Just thought you'd like to hear from a photographer who loves his DSLR systems, and has no plans for moving on to mirrorless. Please keep up the wonderful work, and God Bless! - Doc
Nothing wrong with using a DSLR at all. People worry way too much about this stuff TBH. If I didn't get so many questions about it, I'd stick to just technique videos. :)
Awesome review - also buying the eBook sounds tempting! An addition to battery life - in cold weather and long outdoor stays batteries of mirrorless perform really bad. After a bivouac outdoors or a night in the unheated car at like a moderate 10° Fahrenheit, they are bound to die after very few shots. Charging via USB with a powerbank in the warm pocket is an option, yet not a very convenient one! Your point about glasses, as I suffer from astigmatism taking off the glasses is not a good choice for taking photos. Yet the same principle applies. I can playback the photos through the viewfinder with glasses, so it's also the smother, efficient workflow with a mirrorless body
kept my nikon df and very happy, as 2nd hand pro f mount vr glass gets crazy cheap now as ppl unload megatons of it. got tamron 24-70 f2.8 g2 for 350€ recently, it's darn well stabilised to boot. you don't need af or real time exposure preview if things dont move and that makes 90% of sujects for some => no rush at all to go mirrorles then. this mirrorles craze is driven by marriage & wild life photogs, ppl who make $$ on it, for casual photogs it not that urgent, of course it's nice to have exposure preview and ibis etc, compact size, i do have omd em1 & xpro3 as well, i see all the advantages of mirroless, but it's not essential in sooo many cases and pricewise, amators (non pros) can save tons of $$ in course of the next 5 yrs staying with the latest gen pro dslr bodies which are often selling now at the price of low grade new mirrorles and top notch old glass. 800€ used d500 vs 800e used em1 mk3, i've tried both, for my use d500 felt better and pro f1.8 f2.8 m43 glass is 2 times smore expensive than the same f mount nikkors, + i don't care to carry 1 extra kilo on my shoulder...
@@andreika6681 That is true. However, once I've seen S glass, I couldn't stay with DSLRs - the difference in quality between my old glass and S glass is significant. That is, if you want to pay the difference in price. I could have stayed with DLSRs for sure, if I had to, and still would have been happy.
How ironic that this video was posted today! Yesterday I spend the day shooting BIF (after re-watching a few of your BIF and AF videos) and had a very low number of keepers. I have a D780 and a D7500 with the 500mmPF lens. I tried Group AF, Single AF, you name it, on both cameras. The birds were quite far away, so it could have been that. I find myself wondering if I should upgrade the D7500 to a mirrorless camera. Likely an issue 4" behind the camera, ha! I am also very curious about the Z9 but it will be very expensive, no doubt. Great video, thanks!
why are you using the d780 or for birds tho, im pretty sure a d500 would perform miles better, even compared to the d7500. Unless you're going to buy an r6 or r5 or an a9 or a1, the d500 is probably a better choice. maybe replace the d7500?
@@sahilmeena8018 I first bought the d7500 (the d500 was out of my budget at the time). I recently bought the d780 for Astro, nightscapes and landscapes. Love that camera, but you are right, it isn't the right tool for birds in flight. I just wanted to see if it did a better job than the d7500, since it is newer.
@@robinc-k7162 i mean, if you have enough reach with your glass on the d780, IQ will obviously be better than the d7500 or d500 in any sistuation considering you'd be getting a stop more light and a less dense sensor, leading to less noise at any given iso than the other 2 aps c cemras, but the af performance should really just be the decision maker.
@@sahilmeena8018 thank you for your thoughts, much appreciated. Looking back at some of the shots from that day, the images that were not good all seemed to be ones with low contrast (Great Blue Heron flying in front of tall grasses, etc), so I think that was part of the issue. Other images with good contrast were much better.
Yup. Olympus has all cross type phase detect and number 4, native lenses issue, doesn't apply to Olympus or Panasonic either ( PL200mm f2.8, Olympus 300mm f4, 150 - 400 f4.5 ). Steve is a ff shooter, so his mirrorless videos are his experience with Nikon, Sony and Canon.
Hi Steve, can you make a video on Z6ii vs Z7ii field experience? I am a macro photographer (Insects). Now i fall in tension which one perfect? Z6ii or Z7ii or D850
@Steve Perry, I am using a Nikon D5600 and was looking forward to buying a new lens. Would you suggest I go for the Nikon 200-500 mm or the Sigma 60-600 mm?
Excellent video, Steve! I kind of wish you had spent a little more time on the cost angle of this. As one who is *heavily* invested in Canon DSLR lenses (but only a couple of bodies), I really would like to go to a new ecosystem (Sony for example) but it would be very hard to do as the used equipment market seems to be flooded since the mirrorless option has shown up. And...you were spot on in that the cost of new mirrorless bodies is almost prohibitive for many. But at least you have given all of us food for thought as to when or if we might make the big move. Thanks for the pros and cons!
If you're heavily invested in Canon, I'd HIGHLY recommend Canon mirrorless. The R5 is jaw-dropingly good and die into disappoint. I'd also look at the new R3 when it shows up - I might grab that one myself. I think from an ergonomic standpoint, Canon might be the best, even inching out Nikon (my ergonomic favorite up to this point).
I don't understand your point about the batteries, the specs for example about Nikon they state a clear margin of reduce shots for new mirrorless, are you saying, they are wrong about it?
It's the way the CIPA tests work. I think they shoot one shot every 30 seconds. This allows a DSLR to go into standby with the default settings, but you have to leave the mirrorless on to continue viewing. Even if they are keep the DSLR on the entire time, it's not using nearly the juice an EVF does. However, most of us don't shoot one shot every thirty seconds. From an in-the-field standpoint, I get very adequate battery life with my mirrorless cameras and don't feel like I'm changing them excessively.
The Guys at my local camera shop seem to see mirrorless all the way ! Canon and Nikon more lens orientated ! Sony more tech linked think TV set / computer and Sensor technology ! Well never really seen it that way so thought I would throw it in the mix ! Do Sony still make 50% of all sensors ?
Great info Steve, thank you! However, I have a problem with mirrorless on INITIAL AF acquisition of a MOVING bird because it's AF "follows" on its own without me moving the AF point, and it can easily "dance" between the bird's head or tail even though my initial AF is centered on the body. I feel like I'm fighting it and have to constantly hit the back button focus to "re-center" it.
It kind of sounds like you may be using one of the tracking modes. I find that if the bird is already in the air, the normal, static AF modes work better (I use Zone quite a bit with my Sony a1). If the bird is perched and I can get a tracking point on it before it takes off, then tracking works better (Sony / Canon at least - Nikon not so much).
For me, the major disadvantages of upgrading from my Nikon 500 to the Z9 is high price and extra weight I would need to carry. I will stay with my current setup for the foreseeable future.
Found you from a B&H video. Absolutely loved your presentation. Just got a 200-500 for my Nikon Z6. There is no doubt your videos will help me out. Will also be purchasing some of your books. Thanks for the videos.
I have to say this probably the best explainer I've seen on the key differences between mirrorless and DSLRs, regardless of photographic subject. Bravo, Steve! This was extremely clear, and you have examples with photos to back it all up. I think the future is looking bright for photographers, both pros and hobbyists.
Hi Steve. I just switched from Nikon Z6ii to Nikon D5. Although I miss the EVF and the ability to tilt the screen, I love the D5 wow. I was able to get my hands on a D5 in mint like new condition for $2,500.00 less that switching to the Z9. I have seen the reviews of the Z9 but very happy with the D5. I think you for the videos. Thank you sir
Love the honest, no nonsense, to the point, information you provide Steve.
Glad to see you back to your old self. I have been trying to decide this very thing. Great video. Thanks. ✌🤟🖖
As a hobbyist I just moved up to a D500 and I love it. I don’t see me changing anytime soon. Good information though.
Me too
im considering the same thing! a new d500 + 200-500 nikon costs $ 3,101 in my country, is it the same for you folks in ths US ?
I bought a new D500 last year (used a D7200 for years) and dont regret it for the price/performance. There is no doubt that mirrorless is the best option going forward, but as someone who is just a hobbiest, for £3,000-ish you can have a very capable wildlife setup (D500 plus 200-500 VR). Its a great time to get into the hobby.
@@andrewbutler9533 salary is 200 usd a month here my friend.
Every single time I watch one of your videos I learn something new. A huge thanks for that Steve!!!
Wonderful job. I'm glad you are willing to point out weaknesses of your favorite brand. Also, this is the most thorough coverage of negatives of mirrorless I have seen.
This was a great high level review, I agree with all the viewpoints and totally appreciate that you noted the background focus and slow wake experience. Both are really minor, but appear huge to anyone with lots of solid dslr experience. But the strength of wysiwyg is just awesome. I will have to try a Canon or Sony soon, as the af performance of nikon has been my biggest frustration so far. Thanks for your HELP!! And WOW, the photos you included are absolutely incredible (Kingfisher in flight, racoon face in curly brush, and so on😍😍)!!
Correction And Pain Of Clarification:
Correction - I mention that mirrorless do not have cross-type AF but there is an exception - Olympus does. That's the trick with making a generalized video, there's always an exception out there somewhere...
Point of clarification - I mention in the video to turn off your rear LCD to conserve battery life and many have pointed out the CIPA tests show using the rear LCD instead of he EVF can, with some cameras, actually result in longer (not shorter) battery life. However, that's really not what I was trying to say.
When shooting with most mirrorless cameras using the EVF, when you back off from the eyepiece the camera automatically switches to the rear LCD. If you keep the rear LCD turned off, when you back away from the eyepiece the camera instantly shuts off the EVF and doesn't turn on the rear LCD - saving some battery life (when you move back, the EVF will pop back on, as long as the camera hasn't gone into standby mode). Note that this doesn't necessarily apply to every camera - it does for Nikon and Sony but my Canon R5 does not cut off the EVF when I back out.
At any rate, with the cameras that this does work with, it seems to have helped my battery life.
both sony and canon have much better af than olympus, which proves how little cross-points matter in the milc world... stacked sensors for instance are a far bigger defining factor when it comes to af capability, and so is a.i. for that matter, as canon showed with r5 bird eyeaf, when sony didn't have it on the a9/a9ii.
@@DragRacingTV I agree, but I think if Canon and Sony added cross-type AF their systems would be even better :)
Wow you have some outstandingly beautiful photos Steve. good info, thanks for this.
This channel is great for photographers of all kind. Steve really knows his stuff and lays it out clear and consisely
Wow, Steve Perry. beautifully explained in depth..
Great content, no nonsense, to the point, very informative
Hi Steve! I have searched endless hours regarding mirrorless cameras and I own a pair. Great review! Cheers
Steve: A very fair and balanced enumeration of ML pros/cons for wildlife - well done!
Always great Steve! Thank you. I just got the A7r 4 and the viewfinder black out is the only problem with it.
#7 “Mirrorless Cameras Love Backgrounds”. Excellent and helpful observation. I learned this quickly after moving to the R5 and have deployed the solutions outlined here.
It's great to see that mirrorless is come a long way since 2018. The reasons I switched from Nikon DSLR to Lumix G9 in 2018 was the improved EVF, stabilization, processor speed/burst rate, battery life, 4K video quality, and the start up speed. Since then, my G9 is a different camera due to the regular and innovative firmware updates.
Nevertheless, thanks for making this video Steve. It's great to see you warming up to and making the move to mirrorless. With your skills and ability, and the ability of powerful mirrorless systems, I know you'll be finding new techniques and setting new cutting edge style of wildlife photography. Much like you've done with the Nikon DSLR system. Look forward to more of your wildlife tips and gear tips.
More like 2013 when Sony first released their pro full-frame Sony a7. They were the only ones who were heavily invested into mirrorless while Canon and Nikon were still sitting around twirling their fingers. Glad Sony led the way and woke those 2 guys up.
Great information and I bought the Z9! At this point the only issue I have is at times the focus issue you mentioned about finding the flower, then it finds the background and doesn’t find the flower, as in your video. Great battery life with the Z9 and really like the tracking features!!
Excellent comparison. Thanks.
Excellent video as usual Steve. Thanks a lot for sharing
Awesome comparison! Thank you Steve!
I like this summary. I keep hearing that mirrorless is the future of photography, similar to digital replacing film in the past. I’m not at all against mirrorless. But in my opinion, they’re still too new for me to jump onboard just yet. Some quirks, like the EVF lag and slow startup, need some time for technology to improve on them. And I agree, they’ll get there. But DSLRs have been around long enough to be pretty much perfected. This is one reason why there’s such a price gap. For the price of a mid-level mirrorless, you can get a pretty sweet DSLR. But as technology advances, I’m sure the prices of worthwhile mirrorless bodies will go down as the definition of “high-end” changes. I don’t exactly have $6k lying around for a Canon R3!
Thank's Steve for a very informative video on mirrorless cameras, I use a DLSR Nikon D810 mainly for weddings and portraits so I think the Nikon D850 would be a good investment.
Another concise video. Thanks Steve. I am waiting eagerly for the Z9 as I find that my Z6 is not even close to the speed of AF tracking of my trusty old beast D4 (yes OLD!). Having said that I am starting to love the Z6 for many other reasons and certainly favour it way above my D810, which I rarely use now. Your books are invaluable.
This is again another fantastic video from you
Just saw the video now - a great summary of pros and cons! One thing I like to add is that for Nikon some Z lenses beat the DSLR lenses hands down (though I got some good F-mount lenses too).
Thanks for confirming what I thought about mirrorless vs. DSLR! I’ll be using my D500 until Nikon gets their prices down and hopefully there will be an affordable option! Great info, as always!
I am still shooting with a d810 (not for wildlife) and my d4s. However after returning from a weeks trip to my home state of Wyoming and me getting long on the tooth I am thinking of trading my DSLR's and all my glass. Maybe not, no rush. Your videos like this one gives me pause to reconsider. I have only had one ML camera in my hand a used Sony a7RlV. The files size is way more then I need on that camera. Will be reading and watching and one day I may decide to change systems to ML.
Great work Steve. Best comparison I have seen.
The Panasonic G9 and the Olympus E-M1(II, III, 1x) have a good size grip area. The Fujifilm and many of the Sony have almost no grip at the front and do not make for easy holding and prolonged use. Also having the EVF off to the left, what is with that.
I agree that mirrorless has more advantages than disadvantages. I shoot with a z6 II now and I'm loving it. My keeper rate for portraits has gone up since I no longer have to focus and recompose. I can concentrate more on framing up the shot and looking at how the person is posed rather than if I'm in focus. I can't wait until the 200-600mm comes out. I have the money now for it. I'm going to pre order as soon as they start taking orders for it.
Thank you. I love your tips. I am a hobbiest and now willing to wait for a camera that is highly popular to buy . Even though I shoot canon your tips are transformale to my brand.
Thank you for another informative video. I have been using the Nikon D850 which I love, have the D500 but do not use it as often and enjoy a number of lenses. I have the Z9 on order but still on the fence about going through with it. Ordered it (with a deposit) in February. It seems to be a game changer for wildlife/birds with the eye detect feature and of course the added FPS. But when holding the Z9, at least for me with small hands, it is quite a brick and wonder when hand holding in the field if you or anyone notes a challenge. I do not have a battery pack on my D850 so not used to the extra bulk. Maybe that just takes time. Thanks again for this video
I've run into the background focusing problem with the Z6II while shooting Beach volleyball. I couldn't figure out why the camera was focusing on the background!!!
Sir great and very helpful information 👍
As you so adequately mention one of the biggest impediments for a amateur hobbyist photographer on a budget is price. I presently use a Nikon D500 and there is nothing in mirrorless that can match this camera for the price I paid for it. Mirrorless manufacturers keep saying how their cameras are of a simpler design with fewer moving parts, smaller etc but the cost is very high in comparison to a DSLR of equal measure. Obviously mirrorless is likely much more profitable for the manufacturer, distributors and retailers then the equivalent DSLR. Right now my cost to switch including repurchasing equal native lenses from what I have now is just cost prohibitive.
As an amateur I have moved from primarily using a Canon 80D to the R6, and although I still have to 80D, I can't imagine using it as anything other than a backup. The improved performance at higher iso and the autofocus are for me the main advantages. Having said that I spent this morning trying to photograph dragonflies in flight, and the R6 and Sigma 150-600C couldn't cope with the reeds in the background, and I found I had to resort to manual focus, however once they moved to a less cluttered background it caught back on again.
Many Thanks Steve you have nailed to perfection. I agree with Mirrorless are evolving every month. Keep rocking
Amazing images and really informative presentation! Thanks Steve!
Always reliable and extremely knowledgeable advice, Steve 🙌🏻 Just made a small contribution; wrong not to if able, given the quality content you obviously work so hard to put out 👍🏻
Thank you so much - I really appreciate it!
Great information Steve! Thanks!
Another great video my friend! Keep up the good work!
as always, thanks a lot for the great video, Steve.
Traded in my d5 and 600 f4, imported a Sony 200-600 & macro, to many advantages for me, mainly my shoulders and age was the main excuse, agree on battery and wake times, tolerating the rest.
That was an excellent summary Steve, I wonder how long it will be before any of us still use our DSLR's, exciting times. Will you share at some point what your preferences are as you experiment with different brands, that would be great to hear. Stay safe buddy. PS I'm also hoping the Z9 is a larger form factor, Z6&7 are a touch small!
Thanks - that's not a bad idea. So far, I've decided that all of them are good and none of them are perfect :)
Thanks so much for a (for me) well timed video. I gave been struggling with this decision for almost a year. Your consice information is just what I needed. Now just to decide which one! :)
Another wildlife photographer pointed out another benefit with mirrorless - if you shoot water fowl close to the surface of the water, you can focus with the tilt screen with the full benefit and performance of the AF. With DSLRs, it is contrast detect only in live view mode which doesn't quite have the same performance.
Currently using a Nikon D5, D850, D500 and D4S but having used my Z6 quite a lot, once the Z9 is out I’m getting my order in. Absolutely.
Excellent concise review. Thank you.
Thank you so much Steve. 🙏
As you mentioned in the video, mirrorless cameras really only become notably better when your budget for only the body is well over 3 grand so I think for a lot of people they would still be better off with dslrs.
Hey Steve - Thanks for the umpteenth excellent, well thought out, detailed and appropriate video on the DSLR (D camera) to Mirrorless (M camera) question. You are the Best. I realize that that video & this comment are 2 years old but here's some current comment. I'm considering making The Switch - D to M - so I wrote down and pondered your 8 or 10 advantages and disadvantages. It appears that, as you predicted, many of the disadvantages (slow turn on, battery life, native lens availability, etc.) have evaporated in the last 2 years as M cameras have improved. So I'm left with advantages being silent shutter, enhanced frame rate (at least for the high dollar M cameras), AF tracking, larger lens mounts (which actually may mean lots of expensive glass in my future but that's just a budget thing), - apologies if I missed any other biggies. Which kind of leaves me scratching my head as to why a big splash out in $$$'s is a good idea when the advantages don't seem all that significant when weighed against DSLR's that work great, use a stellar collection of great (and getting cheaper) glass, and which give excellent, wall hanger, results. Don't get me wrong, I'm a big fan of new tech - love it in fact. But this M camera thing seems like an expensive bridge too far. On the other hand, M cameras, like SUV's, are just where we're headed so hang on for the ride. If you're busy don't bother with answering this comment as the D to M camera transition has been hammered in forums for years. But these are my thoughts. All the best to you and yours. Jack
My advice? Rent a mirrorless camera and lens for a week and give it a try. I can tell you that my keeper rate has never been higher than it is - and at least part of that is due to the better tech / speed of mirrorless cameras. You can still get great shots with DSLRs of course - heck, you can still get great shots with film cameras - but mirrorless really has an edge and I think it's worth trying it yourself :)
Thanks Steve. Yep, agreed on the way forward - renting a mirrorless and planning out a birding trip is already in the works for me - gotta check it out. Jack @@backcountrygallery
Nice video as always!
...you just made me feel better about my late 2020 purchase of a Canon 90D...
Would like to hear you address the aspect of the quiet shutter on mirrorless. Affect on wildlife disturbance, courtesy in group situations, etc. I’m heavily invested in Nikon dslr gear but would think of a mirrorless body for situations where a clacking shutter would be problematic.
Thanks for your timely video.. I'm kind of a new bird photographer and was thinking of upgrading to mirrorless from D500.. As you pointed out, the reviews I get with Nikon mirrorless systems are putting me on hold..
I really hope Nikon will come up with a truly great mirrorless soon..
Thanks for your video
Great overview Steve - mirrorless has been an absolute game changer for me (also for video work) and I'm really looking forward to seeing where the technology goes in the next few years!
What mirrorless camera do you have? I'm thinking of getting sony a6000 but not sure yet
@@Chris1878e I have a Nikon Z6 and Z7, but I am going to pre-order a Z9 as soon as that is possible :D
Great review of all pros and cons! But thank God for Canon, for giving people relatively inexpensive yet very competetive way to get to the high end mirrorless - The R6. Its not an A1, or R3 but at 1/3 of the price and tons of pro features i feel i spent my money well for a change, and don't miss the old Canon/Nikon bodies at all. Highly recommended entry point, and perfect for utilizing the old EF lenses!
Thats helpful, and beyond the wild life photography
Good analysis Steve but I disagree on only evf on saves battery than the display on. I have experienced the evf has high fps and resolution than screen back of the camera in modern cameras which chews more battery. This is supported by numbers by cipa as well.
I'm just passing along what I experience in the field. I think some of the reason is that when I am on EVF only mode, the camera doesn't switch to the LCD when I pull back from the camera and run that for awhile. The only time the display (EVF) is on is when my eye is to the viewfinder. CIPA doesn't' test for that :)
Excellent video Steve. I currently have the D850 and the Z7ii and always use the D850 if I am expecting fast action. However I am planning to get the Z9 as soon as possible and hopefully that will be my go to for fast action in the future.
Good video Steve very well balanced and covers almost everything. Funny I noticed the focus think once in a while. I shoot the Canon R5 and really like that you can charge the batteries in the camera. I carry an external battery pack and plug it in when I'm moving (driving) from one place to another. It helps to keep them charged enough to always have power. The Canon adapter works so well with the EF mount lens that although I will move to the RF at some point I don't see replacing my 600mm just to get the same 600mm they boled the adapter to. Eye-tracking is great and allows you to work composing the shot vs just trying to focus like before with a DLSR. If you have the money and want more keepers for BIF, etc. then I think they are the way to go. I also like my 45mp as a small crop and still have more photo than my 1Dxmk2. I printed your book, wow 500 pages! Can't wait to start reading it. Hoping Canon R1 keeps the 45mp and combines the best things from the R3. After having 45mp to crop and print big with I can't see going backward with the R3. I think they could have gotten the speed with the 45mp, but if the R1 has the mp and speed the reason was they didn't want to kill off sales of the R1.
Thanks for the kind words :)
We just started really shooting the R5 and it's a heck of a camera. I too am curious about the R1 - I have a feeling it may blow everything else away when it's finally launched. Just the rumors for the R3 are impressive (although I agree about the 24MP - but - if it's the lowest noise anyone has ever seen, maybe that changes things :) )
Great information Steve
I used to use a D500 for my casual wildlife photography, but now use a Z50 with an adapted Tamron 100-400 and so far it seems to be working good. Like you mentioned, the ability to move the autofocus point throughout most of the viewfinder range is a huge advantage. At this point, my D500 feels bulky and I get frustrated trying to use it.
The D500 is still superior to a Z 50 when you use it to track fast moving subjects with high keeper rate in AF-C mode.
Hi Steve, I think you missed sensor stabilization. Is it a think in wildlife photography. I think so if you are hand holding and have a fast moving subject which tends to vanish quickly.
IBIS isn't very effective over 50 ~ 100mm, so it's not a big advantage for wildlife shooters. You need in-lens stabilization for longer glass, the sensor just can't move enough to compensate for a telephoto.
Thanks Steve, this was a great video.
I was into mirrorless about 10 years ago with the Sony 5N. At that time the focus system was only contrast, and the system was not great overall. Have since upgraded to the 6000, and then the 6400. Major improvement over the years! I still wonder about the ergonomics of have a small camera attached to a huge lens, but then you can buy add-on battery grips etc. to deal with that. Over the years I though that both Nikon and Canon should keep the feel of their bodies while converting to mirrorless. It seems like they are finally going in that direction. It will make it more attractive for DSLR users to adapt to mirrorless.
I thought you made some excellent points with your review. It takes some pretty expensive, high-end mirrorless gear to exceed the capabilities of more moderately priced DSLR's but I think that gap is closing with the introduction of cameras like the Canon R6. So much of the shooting experience with a mirrorless camera hinges on the quality of the EVF.
Thinking of selling my d850 and getting the z7ii. Thoughts ? Using it with the 500 pf and want to lighter setup
With price one should also consider that now is the moment when people will transition from dslrs to mirrorless what means more second hand dslr gear in good condition will be available
Great Video thanks from Austria
I am saving up for when Nikon releases a Z mount Phase Fresnel between 300mm and 600mm. A Z9 or Z7III with faster autofocus, more frames per second, and a lightweight native PF lens. That is my dream kit.
You and me both!!
On Nikon D3500 I've got a AF point for each rule if thirds crossing point (although only line-type), which is quite convenient 🙂 I don't know how other DSLRs have it.
I agree that 5 fps for birds in flight, but better than my point and shoot camera that did 5 shots quickly and then I had to wait for like 5 or 7 seconds to start shooting again.
Great review, well presented. Thanks
Waiting and saving…Z9…cannot wait to see your video about the new Beast. Could this be the new…D850 to save Nikon??? Thank you so much Steve for these great videos. Have bought 2 ebooks and often refer to them.
Thanks! I too am REALLY looking forward to the Z9. I'm also kicking around the 400 2.8 with the built-in TC :)
@@backcountrygallery how do you feel about the built in TC on that prime lens? The 400 2.8 is so nice with both a 1.4x or 2x TC, but with a 1.4x built in, no one can really enjoy the benefits of the 2x ...that's at least my interpretation, what are your thoughts, Steve?
@@coreybrooks3493 I feel like there's a 100% chance you can disengage the 1.4 and stick a 2X on the back. Heck, you can problem use both!! Won't know for sur until it's out, but if you can't use a 2X with a 400 2.8, it would be a deal breaker for many.
@@backcountrygallery a fair point I, for some reason, didn't think of. Thank you, Steve.
@@backcountrygallery The only problem will be AF, there is no way they have caught up, they are so far behind.
I liked the video - a fair assessment of the advantages and disadvantages. It will be interesting seeing how a Canon R3 performs against the Sony A1.
I appreciate the review. I love that I have both. Yes the Z9 is going to be fascinating when it arrives but too much money for me. That's okay. I'm excited for updates to my Z7 II as well.
I'm looking forward to those updates as well.
Howdy, Steve, Thanks for yet another informative and well presented video. I guess I'm swimming against the current flow, but I, for one, have no interest whatsoever in getting into Mirrorless gear. I have invested a lot in gathering what, to me, is my dream system, and for me, it does everything I want it to do, quite wonderfully. I have two D750 bodies, a D700, a D7100, and my first Nikon camera, a D7000. I only keep the D7K for going back packing, as I do not wish to risk taking my other bodies along on those sorts of trips. For lenses, I have the Nikon Trilogy, the only exception is the f2.8E FL ED, instead of the older versions of that lens. My favorite DX lens is the 17-55 f2.8G, and again, this is a great lens, IMHO. The only change I would possibly make is to replace the 7100 with a D500. But, I'm in no hurry about that, right now. In any case, thank you for your outstanding videos, from which I've learned a great deal! Just thought you'd like to hear from a photographer who loves his DSLR systems, and has no plans for moving on to mirrorless. Please keep up the wonderful work, and God Bless! - Doc
Nothing wrong with using a DSLR at all. People worry way too much about this stuff TBH. If I didn't get so many questions about it, I'd stick to just technique videos. :)
Awesome review - also buying the eBook sounds tempting!
An addition to battery life - in cold weather and long outdoor stays batteries of mirrorless perform really bad. After a bivouac outdoors or a night in the unheated car at like a moderate 10° Fahrenheit, they are bound to die after very few shots. Charging via USB with a powerbank in the warm pocket is an option, yet not a very convenient one!
Your point about glasses, as I suffer from astigmatism taking off the glasses is not a good choice for taking photos. Yet the same principle applies. I can playback the photos through the viewfinder with glasses, so it's also the smother, efficient workflow with a mirrorless body
Very good summary, thank you! (Sold all my DSLRs a while back, as I'm not a wildlife photographer.)
kept my nikon df and very happy, as 2nd hand pro f mount vr glass gets crazy cheap now as ppl unload megatons of it. got tamron 24-70 f2.8 g2 for 350€ recently, it's darn well stabilised to boot. you don't need af or real time exposure preview if things dont move and that makes 90% of sujects for some => no rush at all to go mirrorles then. this mirrorles craze is driven by marriage & wild life photogs, ppl who make $$ on it, for casual photogs it not that urgent, of course it's nice to have exposure preview and ibis etc, compact size, i do have omd em1 & xpro3 as well, i see all the advantages of mirroless, but it's not essential in sooo many cases and pricewise, amators (non pros) can save tons of $$ in course of the next 5 yrs staying with the latest gen pro dslr bodies which are often selling now at the price of low grade new mirrorles and top notch old glass. 800€ used d500 vs 800e used em1 mk3, i've tried both, for my use d500 felt better and pro f1.8 f2.8 m43 glass is 2 times smore expensive than the same f mount nikkors, + i don't care to carry 1 extra kilo on my shoulder...
@@andreika6681 That is true. However, once I've seen S glass, I couldn't stay with DSLRs - the difference in quality between my old glass and S glass is significant. That is, if you want to pay the difference in price. I could have stayed with DLSRs for sure, if I had to, and still would have been happy.
More precisely - I moved because of the glass, not because of the cameras.
How ironic that this video was posted today! Yesterday I spend the day shooting BIF (after re-watching a few of your BIF and AF videos) and had a very low number of keepers. I have a D780 and a D7500 with the 500mmPF lens. I tried Group AF, Single AF, you name it, on both cameras. The birds were quite far away, so it could have been that. I find myself wondering if I should upgrade the D7500 to a mirrorless camera. Likely an issue 4" behind the camera, ha! I am also very curious about the Z9 but it will be very expensive, no doubt. Great video, thanks!
why are you using the d780 or for birds tho, im pretty sure a d500 would perform miles better, even compared to the d7500. Unless you're going to buy an r6 or r5 or an a9 or a1, the d500 is probably a better choice. maybe replace the d7500?
@@sahilmeena8018 I first bought the d7500 (the d500 was out of my budget at the time). I recently bought the d780 for Astro, nightscapes and landscapes. Love that camera, but you are right, it isn't the right tool for birds in flight. I just wanted to see if it did a better job than the d7500, since it is newer.
@@robinc-k7162 i mean, if you have enough reach with your glass on the d780, IQ will obviously be better than the d7500 or d500 in any sistuation considering you'd be getting a stop more light and a less dense sensor, leading to less noise at any given iso than the other 2 aps c cemras, but the af performance should really just be the decision maker.
@@sahilmeena8018 thank you for your thoughts, much appreciated. Looking back at some of the shots from that day, the images that were not good all seemed to be ones with low contrast (Great Blue Heron flying in front of tall grasses, etc), so I think that was part of the issue. Other images with good contrast were much better.
Hi, I thought Olympus mirrorless had crosstype AF and phase detect?
Yup. Olympus has all cross type phase detect and number 4, native lenses issue, doesn't apply to Olympus or Panasonic either ( PL200mm f2.8, Olympus 300mm f4, 150 - 400 f4.5 ). Steve is a ff shooter, so his mirrorless videos are his experience with Nikon, Sony and Canon.
From Kerala.. With love❤
Always brilliant video every time ⏲ 👏
do you have anything to say about the Z fc? Auto Focusing; BBF!? I already have your DSLR book, but before I upgrade to the mirrorless version..
Informative. I have found my D780 exhibits your #7 issue (liking background) upon occasion.
Yup, it uses the same PDAF system as other mirrorless.
Hi Steve, can you make a video on Z6ii vs Z7ii field experience? I am a macro photographer (Insects). Now i fall in tension which one perfect? Z6ii or Z7ii or D850
Thank you very much Master.
Thank you, really helpful...
@Steve Perry, I am using a Nikon D5600 and was looking forward to buying a new lens. Would you suggest I go for the Nikon 200-500 mm or the Sigma 60-600 mm?
Thanks for tempting me Steve!
Any time!
another great video,as usual we will get you 100% Sony sooner than later and a sony ambassador .. thanks again for the great content..
For me I think that olympus have all lens line up you need except the wider end for wild life is more than enough
Excellent video, Steve!
I kind of wish you had spent a little more time on the cost angle of this. As one who is *heavily* invested in Canon DSLR lenses (but only a couple of bodies), I really would like to go to a new ecosystem (Sony for example) but it would be very hard to do as the used equipment market seems to be flooded since the mirrorless option has shown up. And...you were spot on in that the cost of new mirrorless bodies is almost prohibitive for many.
But at least you have given all of us food for thought as to when or if we might make the big move.
Thanks for the pros and cons!
If you're heavily invested in Canon, I'd HIGHLY recommend Canon mirrorless. The R5 is jaw-dropingly good and die into disappoint. I'd also look at the new R3 when it shows up - I might grab that one myself. I think from an ergonomic standpoint, Canon might be the best, even inching out Nikon (my ergonomic favorite up to this point).
I don't understand your point about the batteries, the specs for example about Nikon they state a clear margin of reduce shots for new mirrorless, are you saying, they are wrong about it?
It's the way the CIPA tests work. I think they shoot one shot every 30 seconds. This allows a DSLR to go into standby with the default settings, but you have to leave the mirrorless on to continue viewing. Even if they are keep the DSLR on the entire time, it's not using nearly the juice an EVF does. However, most of us don't shoot one shot every thirty seconds. From an in-the-field standpoint, I get very adequate battery life with my mirrorless cameras and don't feel like I'm changing them excessively.
this was really great input you are so smart wow
The Guys at my local camera shop seem to see mirrorless all the way ! Canon and Nikon more lens orientated ! Sony more tech linked think TV set / computer and Sensor technology ! Well never really seen it that way so thought I would throw it in the mix ! Do Sony still make 50% of all sensors ?
Great info Steve, thank you! However, I have a problem with mirrorless on INITIAL AF acquisition of a MOVING bird because it's AF "follows" on its own without me moving the AF point, and it can easily "dance" between the bird's head or tail even though my initial AF is centered on the body. I feel like I'm fighting it and have to constantly hit the back button focus to "re-center" it.
It kind of sounds like you may be using one of the tracking modes. I find that if the bird is already in the air, the normal, static AF modes work better (I use Zone quite a bit with my Sony a1). If the bird is perched and I can get a tracking point on it before it takes off, then tracking works better (Sony / Canon at least - Nikon not so much).
@@backcountrygallery thank you for the clarification.