The “Which camera system is best?” debate

Now, more than ever, perhaps due to the power of Social Media, the online video generation or just the general spread of information on the web, there are endless reasons why we should (apparently) buy this camera system or that because they can do this, that or the other, faster, bigger, brighter, and with bells on. Confused? Frustrated? Read on . . .

I shoot Nikon. Ten years ago I bought a second hand D40 for my return to this format after last using a DSLR many years before (a Praktica LTL) - and then technology and kids came along, which is another story entirely. From my early investment in the D40 followed some lens purchases, generally at the budget end but always native Nikon. Then, when I decided to take things seriously I bought a D300s, then a D3s, added a D810, traded that in for a D850, sprinkled in the “Holy Trinity” of lenses plus a couple of others and my investment/immersion into the world of Nikon was complete. I would add that all purchases were used and came over a period of time - I’m not made of money!

But hang on, what about mirrorless? Ah yes! So bringing things further forward, in August 2019 I traded in my D3s for a Z6 and in the last month I did the same with my D850 for another Z6 so I am now fully converted. I have a modern system that meets my photography and video needs and I have gradually started adding the “S” lenses to my arsenal, selling off older F-mount equivalents.

So as someone who is fully invested in one system I still have an interest in how much pull there could be from another system when flaunted on web videos and articles - powerful modern day marketing, eh? Sony have led the way in full-frame mirrorless bodies and associated lenses but they are being pushed hard, mostly (currently) by the Canon lineup and hopefully soon by Nikon. A recent real world test on the Eye-Autofocus (Eye-AF) capabilities of Sony, Canon & Nikon by Jared Polin, showed that Canon are actually slightly better than Sony, with Nikon lagging a bit behind in third place.

But what should I do as I am currently immersed in the “loser” system? In short, nothing! You see, it is important to consider these kind of tests against the type of photography you do, or perhaps get paid to do. I rarely shoot the subject material that Jared used in his test. I have trained muscle memory for being able to capture motion shots when required and actually I would see it as risky to hand every shooting decision over to the camera software on a paid shoot. Heck, you may as well turn the dial to “Auto” and be done with it! (I jest).

Another" “lens” to consider (see what I did then?) is that of the starting out position where you have money and want to invest in a camera system. Here this type of video test could help you greatly. Allied to that is the decision to change systems entirely. Photographers do that, it can be expensive at the higher spec level but if you must make the move because it means success vs failure then make the move and write the cheque. All of these decisions have a financial impact. Don’t rule out a trade-in loss but consider the price difference as rental over time, it is a realistic thought and something I have absorbed in my recent gear-updating shenanigans.

On the Eye-AF point, I have used that for my last few Headshot sessions and it has been flawless. I use a tripod and continuous lighting and that no doubt helps the focus point to be found. So I do not need to worry about fast eye-tracking for it just doesn’t happen in my professional shooting experience. And even though Nikon came in third/last place in Jared’s test, I can state that it delivers for me professionally.

I would urge anyone considering an investment into a new system to read reviews by all means, to look at sample images (unedited ideally), to specifically understand how each system would handle what you need to throw at it, and to physically hold the camera with lenses - this is very important! Above all, don’t rush, this will be a sizeable investment. Also, when enjoying online videos make sure you understand how independent the reviewer may be - they may be sponsored by or an ambassador for the brand they are using and that means the comments and summary are unlikely to be negative.

Which camera system is best? The one that you have researched thoroughly, meets your intended use cases, is within your budget and importantly, feels great in your hands.

Right, off to YouTube to respond to the latest clickbait!