The Case for DSLRs in a Mirrorless World 

DSLRs offer photographers numerous advantages in 2024, and the availability of high-quality DSLRs at affordable prices, coupled with a vast selection of lenses, makes them an attractive option for photographers seeking exceptional value.

Coming to you from Mattias Burling of Gear doesn't matter, this informative video explores the reasons why DSLRs remain relevant in the photography world. Burling highlights the affordability of pro-level DSLRs like the Nikon D850, which can be found at significantly lower prices than their mirrorless counterparts. He emphasizes the extensive lens selection available for DSLRs, with Canon and Nikon offering hundreds of options, including third-party lenses. This vast array of lenses provides users with unparalleled flexibility and creative possibilities.

Burling further emphasizes the advantages of DSLRs, such as their optical viewfinders, which provide a direct and immersive view of the scene. He praises the ergonomic design of DSLRs, particularly for photographers with larger hands, noting the comfortable button placement and overall ease of use. The satisfying sound and feel of a DSLR, with its distinctive mirror slap, contribute to the overall shooting experience.

DSLRs offer a compelling combination of performance, affordability, and a tactile shooting experience that continues to resonate with many photographers. Their proven track record, extensive lens selection, and ergonomic design make them a viable option for users of all levels. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Burling.
 

Alex Cooke's picture

Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.

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9 Comments

This subject seems to come up pretty regularly so it feels like beating the proverbial dead horse. Not ever having replied myself though, I would only add that if the Nikon D850 looks like a good alternative, consider the D800 or D800E. You can usually get a used one at MPB with a low shutter count for in the neighborhood of US $600. I bought this camera in 2013 for $3300, and it revolutionized aspects of my photography as none of the other brands had produced a 36 megapixel camera with its image quality at that point. Yes, gear matters. It matters a lot. But that's an entirely individualistic issue depending on what you're using the camera for. In my case, the D800E is as productive and useful for my needs now as it was ten years ago. For my style of deliberative art photography, nobody has convinced me that a newer camera will make a better picture.

Honestly, some great values can now be had on DSLRs, lenses, and accessories. It's a great time for newcomers to make photography their creative hobby!

It’s just a camera that happens to have a mirror! Why the need for a case? If you wish a slightly bigger heavier camera with a mirror that flaps about and has a few less features of more modern cameras then whats the problem. It takes pictures just like any other camera. I don’t really see what the problem is. It’s like your inventing a problem that doesn’t actually exist.

Maybe because if the authors here didn't make a case for something, there'd be no Fstoppers?

I see what you did

"It’s like your inventing a problem that doesn’t actually exist" back at you.
I look for cases when buying substantial tools. Basic physical protection and some cases have provisions for basic needs.

I own bothe dslr and mirrorless. I prefer dslr when shooting birds in flight because of the lag time with mirrorless. By this i mean if you pause shooting theres a second or two pause when you put you eye to the eye piece begore ie comes on and you can lose a shot. You dont have that with dslr. You can lose shots with eagles or osprey.

Time to upgrade, then. No mirrorless in the past 10 years is that bad. It's barely a split second on even the worst cameras, and absolutely instant on decent to the best.

I love my mirrorless camera, but the author of the video makes many compelling points (the greatest point being that there is so much excellent DSLR-related new and used equipment that is still entirely viable). It would be wasteful and unthinkable that such equipment would go to waste on a shelf somewhere, or worse be destroyed or scrapped. I think for vloggers it may be less compelling to consider the older equipment due to the disparity of video capabilities and specs, regardless of MILC or DSLR.