The Association of European Magazines on Audio, Video and Photographic Equipment EISA annually publishes a list of the best examples of new photographic equipment. Publications from various European countries that regularly conduct test studies nominate their candidates in various categories. After that, at the final meeting of the editors-in-chief of the publications, the best models of photographic equipment are determined by voting. The combined opinion of fifty European magazines is a good guide for all photography enthusiasts. It points not only to the most significant and interesting new developments in photographic technology, but also determines the dominant trends in the market. We bring to your attention a list of the best photographic equipment of 2014 - 2015, published by EISA.
Best amateur DSLR camera - Canon EOS 1200D
The 1200D is a new version of the junior camera in the Canon DSLR line, released this year to replace the 1100D model. This is a fairly simple and user-friendly DSLR camera, which, however, may also be of interest to experienced users who do not want to spend their money on buying a more professional-level DSLR. The 1200D has an 18-megapixel APS-C sensor and a processor that allows for minimal noise levels in the region from 100 to 6400 ISO. Thus, compared to its predecessor, the number of megapixels has increased from 12 to 18. Autofocus with nine cross-shaped sensors is used here.
The 1200D camera allows you to shoot videos with a resolution of 1920x1080 (the previous model had 1280x720). For beginners, Canon offers a special application that will help them master the camera and achieve better results when photographing. In general, the advantages of this DSLR include excellent price-quality ratio. The disadvantages are traditional for an entry-level DSLR - a small number of controls and limited functionality, as well as low performance.
Best professional DSLR camera - Nikon D4s
This year Nikon released a new flagship in the DSLR segment for professionals - Nikon D4s. Compared to its predecessor, several parameters were improved. Firstly, thanks to the EXPEED 4 processor, sensitivity has expanded to 25,600 ISO (if necessary, you can even increase it to 409,600). This, naturally, provides higher quality shooting with a clear lack of light. Secondly, the performance was increased - up to 11 frames per second. Thirdly, the Nikon DSLR has a 51-point autofocus, which provides more accurate focusing. The “heart” of the Nikon D4s is a full-frame 16.2-megapixel sensor.
The undoubted advantages of the new professional DSLR include the D-Movie mode, which provides the ability to record high-quality videos in various formats. Plus a low-lag, carbon-fiber/Kevlar shutter, an all-metal weatherproof body, and a beautiful anti-glare LCD screen.
Amateur compact system camera - Olympus OM-D E-M10
Olympus has concentrated all its efforts on producing system cameras, regularly adding new models to the OM-D line. This year the budget model E-M10 was released, which differs from other cameras in the series in its compactness and affordability. The ultra-compact magnesium alloy body houses a 16-megapixel sensor and a TruePic VII processor that delivers continuous shooting speeds of up to 8 frames per second. A key feature of this camera was the appearance of an electronic viewfinder with minimal response time and 100% frame coverage. On it, as well as on the folding LCD touch screen, you can display basic shooting parameters.
The OM-D E-M10 uses high-contrast 81-point autofocus. Beginners will certainly appreciate the variety of user modes, as well as the Wi-Fi module for transferring photos to mobile devices. In terms of its capabilities and cost, the new product from Olympus is currently one of the most interesting among compact mirrorless cameras.
Best advanced compact camera - Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ1000
The FZ1000, which is the first compact device that can record video in 4K format, was the winner in this category. The new product offers the user a 20.1-megapixel 1” format sensor and a Leica DC Vario-Elmarit f/2.8-4.0 fixed lens. The camera allows you to change the sensitivity from 125 to 12,800 ISO (with the ability to increase to 25,600). You can manually manipulate exposure settings and also shoot in RAW. In addition to a three-inch rotating display, there is an electronic viewfinder.
Of course, the big feature of the FZ1000 is its video capabilities. This new product from Panasonic allows you to shoot videos not only in the usual resolution of 1920 x 1080, but also in 4K (3840 x 2160 pixels). For the first time, such an opportunity appeared in a compact device. It is also worth mentioning that the FZ1000 model has a hot shoe for connecting a flash and Wi-Fi and NFC modules for convenient transfer of footage.
Best Compact Camera for Travel - Panasonic LUMIX DMC-TZ60
Panasonic LUMIX DMC-TZ60 Another new product from Panasonic has become the winner among compact travel cameras. This is the TZ60 model, presented by the manufacturer as the world's thinnest compact device with a Live View finder and 30x zoom. Indeed, this camera is equipped with a Leica lens with a 30x zoom and an aperture of f/3.3 - 6.4. It also has an 18 megapixel sensor. The camera is equipped with hybrid optical stabilization for video shooting, which allows you to compensate for the slightest vibrations of the device. RAW support is provided. The travel zoom has a fairly modest weight (214 grams), so you can take it with you on any trip or trip. It is equipped with Wi-Fi, NFC and GPS modules that a travel photographer may need.
Best advanced DSLR camera - Pentax K-3
Ricoh's new flagship won in the Best Advanced DSLR category. The Pentax K-3 model has an APS-C matrix with a resolution of 24 megapixels and a 27-point autofocus system. The device body, made of reliable magnesium alloy, is additionally protected by seals. The Prime III processor allows you to shoot at up to 8.3 frames per second and use sensitivity up to ISO 51,200. What makes the Pentax K-3 unique is that it does away with the traditional low-pass filter to ensure maximum detail, while using a new anti-aliasing filter to effectively combat moire.
Also noteworthy is the improved exposure metering model, which is based on the use of an 86,000 pixel RGB sensor. The Pentax K-3 is equipped with a new viewfinder with 100% frame coverage. In addition to being able to record video at 1920 x 1080 pixel resolution, the camera is also capable of capturing 4K resolution footage at regular intervals and then combining it into a video stream. Overall, the Pentax K-3 is a great choice for the enthusiast photographer.
Best Professional Compact System Camera - Sony Alpha 7R
The Sony Alpha 7R is a full-frame mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses that may be of interest not only to enthusiast photographers, but also to professionals. The new product is equipped with a 36-megapixel sensor without a low-pass filter, providing impressive detail in photographic images. The Bionz processor allows you to set sensitivity values up to 25,600 ISO. Focusing is contrasting. Speed – up to four frames per second. The camera has a tilting LCD screen with a resolution of 921,600 dots and five levels of manual brightness adjustment. Also, to help the photographer, there is an electronic OLED display with a resolution of 2.36 million dots. For its class, the camera turned out to be quite light. At the same time, it is equipped with Wi-Fi and NFC modules for transferring captured photo images.
Best Compact Camera - Sony Cyber-Shot RX100 III
In one of the most interesting nominations for beginning photographers, EISA experts gave first place to the RX100 III. Although externally this camera is completely identical to the previous model, there are quite a lot of positive changes inside. However, the matrix remains the same - it is a 20-megapixel sensor. Among the undoubted improvements, we should note the fast, sharp Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 24 – 70 mm f/1.8-2.8 prime lens and a retractable electronic viewfinder.
At the same time, the dimensions of the camera practically did not change, and the weight remained at the same level. The three-inch LCD screen installed in the RX100 III can be rotated 180 degrees upward, which is very convenient when creating self-portraits. Of course, the new Sony compact is equipped with built-in Wi-Fi and NFC modules. Perhaps the only drawback of the new product is the absence of a hot shoe, which was in the previous model.
Best Advanced Compact System Camera - Fujifilm X-T1
Fujifilm X-T1 is a mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses, made in retro style. It may be of interest to a wide range of users, from beginners to professional photographers. The camera uses a 16-megapixel X-Trans II sensor and a phase detection autofocus system that achieves focus in just 0.08 seconds. The matrix is characterized by the abandonment of a low-pass filter and the use of an original color filter, which is designed to minimize moire.
The camera has enviable performance: with autofocus turned on, the X-T1 is capable of producing bursts of up to 8 frames per second, switching to working state in just 0.5 seconds. In addition to the three-inch tilting display, there is an electronic viewfinder. The X-T1 body is quite compact, but it is made of magnesium alloy, which protects the camera from mechanical damage and external influences.
Best camera for communications - Samsung NX30
The Samsung NX30 system camera was named by EISA experts as the best in terms of communication capabilities. Indeed, the South Korean company has long been paying the most serious attention to these capabilities, providing its system devices with a variety of wireless communication modules. The NX30 has NFC and Wi-Fi modules for quickly connecting the camera to mobile devices. At the same time, the manufacturer offers convenient functions that complement the capabilities of the camera. For example, using Photo Beam and Mobile Link modes, you can quickly share photos with nearby smartphone owners.
Also, if necessary, you can remotely control the camera from your smartphone. As for the technical characteristics, the NX30 model is equipped with a 20-megapixel matrix, allowing the use of sensitivity values in the range from 100 to 25600 ISO. There is also a rotating AMOLED touch screen and a viewfinder. For beginners, the camera offers sixteen scene programs.
Best camera for video shooting - Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH4
Quite expectedly, this category was won by the Panasonic GH4, the first system model with the ability to shoot in 4K. The camera has a 16-megapixel sensor and a quad-core processor, which provides a sensitivity range of up to 25,600 ISO. The new product boasts a high rate of fire - in burst mode you can shoot at a speed of 12 frames per second. At the same time, the memory buffer is quite decent - 40 frames in RAW. The camera body is made of magnesium alloy with sealing to protect it from moisture and dust. Contrast focusing in 49 zones.
Of course, the main interest is the GH4's video capabilities. Here the camera can offer not only recording videos in Full HD format, but also shooting in Cinema 4K resolution with stereophonic sound. The picture can be displayed on a large TV screen via the HDMI connector.
Best smartphone camera - Samsung Galaxy K zoom
Finally, in the category for the best smartphone camera, the first place went to the Samsung Galaxy K zoom. This is an interesting mobile device that combines the functionality of a camera and a smartphone. The smartphone is equipped with a 20.7-megapixel back-illuminated sensor, ready to compete with the matrices of modern compact cameras. The user is offered the opportunity to manually operate such parameters as aperture, shutter speed and sensitivity, or entrust everything to automation.
Perhaps the main distinguishing feature of this camera phone is the presence of a tenfold optical zoom, which allows you to enlarge an object in the frame ten times without losing quality. Samsung's competitors use predominantly digital zoom in their solutions, which sometimes noticeably spoils the pictures. So here the Galaxy K zoom has a serious advantage. And this, of course, did not escape the attention of EISA experts.
Before buying a new camera, you should decide on the list of tasks that it will solve, as well as which functions you will really need, and which you can refuse and, accordingly, not overpay for them. Think about whether you want to have a compact “digital camera” that, although not distinguished by professional photo quality, is always at hand, because it is easy to carry. Or do you need a powerful professional camera that will allow you to fully realize the talent of a photographer, create stunning photographs that will delight you and your friends for many years to come, and maybe they will even end up on the pages of magazines or newspapers. It may also be that you have just embarked on the path of a photographer, but you no longer have enough functions and capabilities of point-and-shoot cameras, and you are not yet able to pay for a high-quality SLR camera. The modern photographic equipment market is ready to offer cameras for every taste and for every budget. Manufacturing companies also do not waste time, but constantly make their products better and improve them. There wasn't a single year when something new didn't come out. So 2014 pleased sophisticated amateur photographers with new products. Reviews of innovations come out quite often. And there are many of them. In addition, their “big brothers” produced in 2013, 2012 and other years also retain their positions on the “ladder of popularity”. It can be very difficult to navigate in such a large flow of information and which cameras are the best. So let's try to figure it all out.
(as well as some 2011-2013 years that retain their positions)
Compact cameras
1) Canon PowerShot Elph 340 HS in a thin body with a 3" LCD screen, shoots Full 1080p video at 30 fps. Equipped with a 16-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor, DIGIC 4+ processor and 12-bit optical zoom. Built-in wi-fi module allows you to instantly share pictures with friends.Perhaps this is the best budget camera.
2)Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS3- a digital camera in an ultra-thin two-color body with a 14 megapixel high-definition MOS matrix, fast autofocus, shooting video in Full HD format, but has a rather modest 5x zoom and an aperture of 2.8, which, nevertheless, allows you to take excellent pictures in dark rooms and twilight.
3) Olympus StylusTough TG-2– the best compact camera in a waterproof and shockproof body. High speed, high-quality photos, excellent color rendition - just a short list of the qualities of this small but praiseworthy camera.
Semi-professional (system) cameras
1) is a new compact system camera with an 18-megapixel “CX” format sensor without a low-pass filter and lens mount like Nikon 1. The camera offers its user continuous shooting with a frame rate of 20fps and subsequent continuous autofocus. Video is recorded in Full HD and displayed on a 3" touch screen. In addition, the J4 stands out among its competitors with its interesting design.
2) - in my opinion, the best compact camera with interchangeable lenses and BionzX mount is from Sony. Equipped with an APS-C matrix with a resolution of 24.3 megapixels. The image is displayed on a 3" display, which can be rotated 180 degrees. Combined auto-guidance system. Video recording is made in Full HD format. Wi-fi is built-in.
3) – a mirrorless system camera with a 20.3 megapixel matrix and a 3.31-inch rotating touch screen. It is quite compact for its category and has an unusual attractive design. The camera sensor has a fairly high light sensitivity.
Professional (DSLR) cameras
1) is the best DSLR camera for amateurs in 2012 from Canon. Contains a full-frame 20.2 megapixel sensor, DiGIC 5+ processor. A large number of interchangeable lenses can be used. The camera's design is lightweight and durable. It has a large ISO range and excellent autofocus, built-in wi-fi and an excellent display. You can record video in Full HD.
2) Canon EOS 100D– the best DSLR camera of 2013 for beginners. It has a nine-point autofocus system and an 18 megapixel CMOS matrix. Much easier to operate compared to its “big brothers” (in particular the 700D and 7D models).
3) is an excellent DSLR camera that uses the EXPEED 3 processor, which expands the ISO range, and has a 24.1 megapixel matrix. There is no low-pass filter, so the photos are clear and high-quality. Full HD video recording. The camera uses a 51-point autofocus system. The shooting speed is 7 frames per second, which allows you to shoot dynamic scenes without loss of quality.
4) Nikon D7000- a good 2010 SLR camera from the Nikon brand. It is the “big brother” of the D7100 model, but despite this, it does not lose popularity and is not inferior to it either in quality or in the number of buyers, even as of 2014.
Thus, photographic equipment manufacturers have tried to make sure that everyone can find something suitable for themselves at an affordable price, with excellent build quality, rich or, on the contrary, simplified functionality. And the best cameras of 2014 are a clear confirmation of this! Now everyone can get what they expect from a camera, whether it’s photographing a child’s party or creating professional photography in the studio. And don’t be upset if you didn’t find a camera you like in my review. List " The best cameras of 2014“I can continue for a very, very long time. Therefore, I wish everyone good luck in finding their camera and I hope that I helped at least a little!
The year is coming to an end and it’s time to take stock: which compact cameras can be awarded the title of “best of the best”. Our rating includes only those devices that may be of interest to amateurs and professionals who are passionate about photography. There are no inexpensive point-and-shoot cameras, ultrasonic cameras or bulky DSLRs in this top - only mirrorless cameras and other small devices with non-replaceable optics but a large matrix. The rating, of course, is subjective and, moreover, does not contain detailed technical characteristics (they are easy to find on other sites).
Sony A7s - 1st place
Just as the release of the first iPad in 2010 marked the end of the era of personal computing, the emergence of the compact Sony A7s camera with a full-frame matrix means that the era of bulky DSLRs is (finally) coming to an end. A professional photographer, having enough money, can now make his choice exclusively among compact cameras.
The Sony A7s has no competitors yet, except for other modifications of the same camera - the A7r and the very first A7, which entered the market last year. You can, of course, remember the Leica M series, but this is not entirely appropriate due to its sky-high price (Leica M240 without a lens will cost $6500, which is more than two times more expensive than the A7s; and we won’t even talk about the cost of Leica optics This article shows the prices of the popular American camera store B&H as of November 2014). However, Sony A7s is also not the cheapest - $2,500 for the body.
Advantages of the A7s: excellent image quality, wide functionality, excellent ergonomics, high-quality and durable body - everything you need and even more.
What clearly distinguishes the Sony A7s from other devices (including those included in our TOP) is its ultra-sensitive matrix. ISO - 409600 (four hundred nine thousand)!. This is a fantastic amount, although the actual working ISO is still lower - 100 thousand or less. But this is also a lot: for example, you can take a decent handheld shot in a room in which the only lighting is one burning candle. Imagine how much this expands creative possibilities! You can, for example, walk the streets at night and take cool shots without a tripod.
The Sony A7s seems to have no drawbacks... with the exception of not yet a very large selection of suitable optics. But this issue, over time, cannot but be resolved. It should be noted that the few lenses available now, like the camera, are not cheap at all. And they are also quite large, which seriously detracts from the compactness advantage of the bodysuit itself. The most popular fast portrait lens for this system, the Sony Sonar T FE 55 mm f1.8, costs $1,000 (thus, a camera with one lens will cost $3,500). Perhaps in the future the prices for optics will decrease, but with their dimensions, things should not fundamentally change for the better, since, obviously, the size of the lenses directly depends on the size of the matrix itself.
A few words about previous modifications. The letter “R” in the A7r model name stands for the word Resolution, indicating the high resolution of the sensor – 36.4 MP. But the matrix here is an old model, not nearly as sensitive - “only” ISO 25600.
The Sony A7 without a letter in its name is the simplest camera, not without some drawbacks: noisy (in the literal sense of the word - the shutter clicks loudly), a little slow. But the most affordable is about $1,500 for a bodysuit, which is a whole thousand cheaper than the A7s. This means that the Sony A7 competes not so much with its brothers as with cameras with “cropped” matrices, and here the buyer has something to think about...
In fairness, we should also remember the very first full-frame compact camera from Sony - the RX1. A device with a non-replaceable but fairly fast lens (f2.0) with a universal fixed focal length of 35 mm. But, alas, firstly, the Sony RX1 does not have a built-in viewfinder; secondly, the camera costs about the same as a Sony A7 with a good lens - $2800.
Our verdict: The Sony A7s is the best mirrorless camera if you don't mind the price and lack of optics options.
Olympus OM-D EM1 - 2nd place
The Micro 4/3 standard, to which the Olympus OM-D EM1 belongs, has matured greatly in recent years, reaching, thanks to this device, the level of professional technology without any reservations. EM1 is good in everything: image quality, focusing speed and accuracy, ergonomics, and abundance of functions.
The only point (I don’t want to say “minus”) is the relatively small sensor. This won't matter unless you plan to print very large format images and you don't mind some noise (grain) in photos taken in low light. But a small matrix, compared to a full frame, has its own (and very big!) advantage: the compactness of the optics. Among the widest selection of Micro 4/3 lenses, there are many compact examples. Therefore, if you are tired of carrying a heavy and bulky bag with a DSLR and a pair of lenses on your shoulder, then pay attention to it, because for mirrorless cameras of other standards the optics are noticeably larger and heavier.
The Olympus OM-D EM1 is also not cheap, about $1,300 per body. It's good that Olympus has a simpler model - the OM-D EM10, priced at "only" $700 (or $800 with a simple 14-42mm kit lens). The matrix, and therefore the quality of the images, are the same for these cameras, and the functionality is also similar. Why does the buyer pay double the price when choosing the OM-D EM1? Let's list: dust- and moisture-proof housing; a unique five-axis matrix stabilization system (instead of the three-axis one in the younger model, which is also very good); more buttons on the body (however, all the main controls are also present on the EM10); comfortable grip (grip) for confidently holding the camera in your hand, which is important when using a large lens; connector for connecting an external microphone. That's probably all... The above is needed more by professionals than by amateurs, so it's better for the latter to pay attention to the OM-D EM10, and buy one or two lenses with the $600 saved. In addition, the EM10 has its own advantages: a more compact and lighter body, a built-in flash.
Sigma dp Quattro — 7th place
A very unusual, one might even say strange, camera... But everything is in order.
This device is made by the famous Japanese optics manufacturer Sigma, which also developed the original matrix standard called Foveon. This matrix differs from others in that it has three layers - each for its own color (green, red and yellow). The quality of images obtained using such sensors is simply amazing. The downside is that the device is very slow, probably due to some technical limitations.
Sigma dp Quattro is the third generation of relatively compact cameras that have such a cool three-layer matrix. Photos taken with dp Quattro in fairly bright lighting are comparable... to images taken with medium format cameras. Surprisingly, the Sigma dp often produces better images than top full-frame cameras, such as the Leica M. And it costs just under $1,000.
What's the catch, why hasn't Sigma captured the entire photo market, why has almost no one heard of this dp? Alas, the camera is designed for a very narrow range of applications. Firstly, it can't shoot in low light. Shots taken at ISOs greater than 400 are not nearly as good. Secondly, she is very slow. This applies to autofocus, the minimum shutter speed, and the recording time of the captured photo on the memory card. The previous generation - Sigma DP Merill (still on sale) - recorded a photo on the card... about 40 (forty!) seconds. The dp Quattro is noticeably faster, but it's still a terribly slow camera. And finally, thirdly, short operating time on one battery charge. One hundred frames is the limit. Therefore, the kit includes a second “spare” battery, which you simply cannot do without.
Despite all the nuances, the camera has no analogues. So if you are passionate about photography and can afford to spend $1000 on a second camera, then why not. But keep in mind that Sigma dp is a device only for leisurely shooting landscapes, still lifes, staged portraits (in short, where there is no fast movement) and only in good lighting.
For reference: there are three modifications of this camera, equipped with lenses with different focal lengths: 19, 30 and 50 mm. They are called respectively - dp1, dp2, dp3.
Which cameras do I like, but were not included in this rating and why.
Nikon Df
Full-frame DSLR with a retro-style body. The appearance is mind-blowing, but the camera is, of course, larger than any mirrorless camera. Not our format.
Panasonic LX100
The new model, announced this fall at the Photokina 2014 exhibition, has a sensor similar to Micro 4/3 standard cameras and high-aperture Leica zoom optics - f1.7-2.8, which generally promises good image quality. There's also a built-in electronic viewfinder and a good set of controls. All this is enclosed in a fairly compact body, made, one might say, in the Leica style. Cool! But so far I have not seen either the camera itself or detailed online reviews with sample images. In general, the Panasonic LX100 promises to be the best camera of the year in the all-in-one category.
Leica M240/M9
A standard, an icon... what else can you call it? But the price is sky-high both for the M-series cameras themselves and for the original optics for them. And the dimensions are also close to DSLRs.
Canon G16
I once had, in addition to a Sony Alpha DSLR, a Canon G9 (). And I loved him very much. But now a 1/1.5 format matrix is no longer relevant in such a small, but not super compact case. Soon all decent point-and-shoot cameras, like the Sony RX100, will have one-inch sensors. However, now the G16 costs significantly less than the RX100.
Sony RX10
Super-zoom with a large one-inch sensor and a maximum aperture of 2.8 across the entire range. For super-zooms (most of which have “microscopic” matrices - 1/2.3) this is a technological breakthrough. In short, the best camera in its class. But in our review there are no super-zooms, as well as DSLRs.
Sony RX1/RX1r
We already mentioned the RX1 at the very beginning, in the description of the Sony A7s. Disadvantage: there is no built-in viewfinder, which is unacceptable for such a serious and expensive amateur camera. In general, we are waiting for a device with a new ultra-sensitive matrix, like the A7s, and a built-in EVF.
Olympus OM-D EM5
The first device in the OM-D series, which appeared in 2012. An excellent camera, occupying an intermediate position in the OM-D line, between the EM10 and EM1. Nowadays it is often sold at a good discount. Its presence on the market makes it even more difficult to choose the most suitable Micro 4/3 camera.
Fujifilm X100T
The X100T is the latest model in Fujifilm's rangefinder camera series with non-replaceable fixed optics. She got rid of the shortcomings of her predecessors - some slowness and other annoying little things characteristic of new products. The design cannot but please retrogrades and hipsters - the style of Leica or even the Soviet FED and Zorki. Why didn't Fujifilm X100T make it to the top? I don’t know... Appearance, build quality - everything is decent. But the size of the device is considerable, and those mountains of photographs taken with the 100T that I saw on the Internet did not really impress me. The same Ricoh GR is one and a half times more compact and one and a half times cheaper, and, in my opinion, it takes pictures at least no worse.
Before you decide to buy a new $3,000 DSLR, we strongly recommend that you read this short but no less useful post, where we talk about the best cameras of 2014.
Just admit it to yourself: you want to buy a digital camera. Perhaps this thought struck you last weekend when you came across a couple of blurry photos of your summer vacation taken with the Galaxy S4 camera. Or it happened yesterday, when during your lunch break you wanted to show off to your colleague the photos from the concert you attended, but all the pictures taken with your iPhone turned out grainy and blurry due to the poor lighting in the hall. However, you were finally convinced of the need to buy a new digital camera when, after spending an hour searching in the closet for your old Canon PowerShot from 2004, you discovered that its pictures were superior to the camera quality of the most modern and expensive smartphones.
But don't be upset. The good news is that you have a wide choice: digital camera manufacturers never stop developing and introducing new technologies into their production, so there are now a lot of offers on the market that will satisfy anyone, regardless of their size budget.
1. Best Soap Disks of 2014
Who to Buy: Smartphone owners who want to take better pictures
Pocket cameras or, in the language of the common man, “point-and-shoot cameras” do not always receive due attention and respect. But in vain. Of course, such cameras are not equipped with interchangeable lenses and cannot take 20+ megapixel photos, but their body is durable, and the image quality will surpass the camera of any modern smartphone. Despite the fact that most point-and-shoot cameras are equipped with additional options and shooting modes, you can safely use the “auto” mode throughout the day and not worry - the quality of the photos will not suffer much from this.
A) Canon PowerShot Elph 330 HS
Inexpensive, compact and durable. You won't regret spending $150 on this entry-level compact point-and-shoot camera. Even more: modern PowerShot series cameras are like old Nokia phones, i.e. They only break down “on major holidays.” If you do not intend to spend a huge amount on buying a new camera, we recommend that you pay close attention to the Elph 330 HS.
B) Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200
If you want more quality without the price of a professional camera, the Lumix DMC-FZ200 is for you. This camera has a slightly larger sensor size (7.7 mm), and a noticeable 24x optical zoom, which is more than double the performance of the Elph 330 HS.
C) Olympus Stylus TG-2 iHS
The compact, waterproof TG-2 iHS is a great mid-range option between the cheap, hobbyist Elph 330 HS and the more expensive $500 DMC-FZ200. The weight of 230 grams is a bit large for a modern point-and-shoot camera, but the camera takes excellent underwater pictures, which will come in handy if you are going on vacation somewhere to the seaside with beautiful water peace.
2. Semi-professional cameras
Who to Buy: Amateurs who want to take high-quality pictures
As you might guess, cameras are not divided only into expensive and cheap; most amateur photographers will find cameras in the semi-professional segment very useful. Such devices will provide you with excellent image quality and minimal inconvenience in use. You don't have to spend months figuring out camera settings—as is often the case with DSLRs—to learn how to take high-quality photos. Based on your needs, pay attention to either a compact camera with a large sensor or a mirrorless camera camera.
Compact Camera with Large Sensor
Remember one simple truth in the world of photography: the size of the sensor (photo matrix) is more important than the number of megapixels. While the high megapixel count of the sensor helps maintain clarity at larger image sizes, the larger sensor size allows for more light to be collected per pixel, which in turn improves contrast, color rendition and overall image quality. Consequently, compact cameras equipped with a large matrix are the easiest and cheapest way to obtain significantly higher quality images.
A) Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 II
For under $800, the DSC-RX100 II is a real steal for any amateur photographer. The compact from Sony is equipped with a large 15.86 mm matrix, its body is comfortable, its design is modest, and it weighs only 280 grams.
B) Fujifilm X100S
At $1,300 a pop, the X100S isn't exactly a cheap camera, but its compact design and 28.40mm sensor pack a punch that puts most entry-level DSLRs to shame. If you want the highest quality photos but don't want to bother with interchangeable lenses, the X100S is a great camera choice.
Mirrorless Cameras
As popular as Justin Bieber, mirrorless cameras are the latest word in the world of photography. Instead of equipping the camera with a standard viewfinder system with a built-in mirror system, mirrorless cameras have decided to eliminate the viewfinder entirely, allowing for a compact design and a significant reduction in size. Even more: mirrorless cameras can change the lens, so in terms of “tailoring” the camera to you and your needs, they are in no way inferior to more expensive DSLR (DSLR) models. If you like taking pictures using a standard physical viewfinder, look elsewhere. If you already constantly take photographs using an electronic display, you can safely choose from a wide variety of mirrorless cameras.
A) Olympus OM-D E-M5
Are you tempted by DSLR cameras, but are put off by their price and weight? The E-M5 mirrorless camera is a great alternative. The camera has options and controls on par with professional DSLR cameras, but its simple and unassuming design makes the E-M5 easy to mistake for a regular point-and-shoot camera.
B) Sony NEX-5N
Fashionable and compact, the Sony NEX-5N camera weighs only 210 grams, while having an impressive 28.12 mm matrix. The approximate cost of the camera is $700, which is the best value you'll find on our ranking.
3. DSLR cameras
Who to buy: Professional photographers, serious amateurs, people on a budget
School prom queens, as well as their ordinary classmates. This is how you can characterize SLR cameras (DSLR) and all other cameras of different classes. Yes, DSLRs are complex machines; Yes, not everyone can handle their settings; yes, they are bulky and cannot be hidden in your pocket; yes, they are very expensive. However, when you understand the camera settings and understand what you are doing, it will finally become clear to you why DSLR cameras are so valued. If you think you're ready for a DSLR camera, you won't regret purchasing any of the three devices below.
A) Canon EOS 100D/Rebel SL1
The EOS 100D DSLR costs just $500 and weighs 407 grams. This is a cheap and lightweight entry-level DSLR, ideal for amateur photographers who want to raise the quality of their images to a higher level.
B) Nikon D7100
The D7100 weighs more than 600 grams, but its heaviness is more than compensated by the 43.22 mm sensor, which allows you to take pictures of simply incredible quality. And all this fun for just over $1,000.
C) Pentax K-5 IIs
No one argues that Canon and Nikon ruled and rule the world of photography, but even despite this fact, the Pentax K-5 IIs is an excellent alternative. The DSLR camera has all the necessary options and settings, is cleverly designed, and if you look hard enough, you can buy the K-5 IIs at a very reasonable price.
2013 and 2014 showed themselves to be very good in terms of the release of new models of SLR and mirrorless cameras.
Many manufacturers can boast of new products that combine the latest technologies, but based on expert opinions, we have compiled our own rating of cameras for 2014 and 2015, in which we have identified the most worthy models and tried choose leaders among DSLRs and mirrorless cameras.
The best DSLR cameras
1st place - Nikon D610
Many experts are confident that the Nikon D610 is the best DSLR camera of 2015.
This camera, introduced on October 8, 2013, is equipped with a full-frame 24.3-megapixel sensor and retains all the best features of the previous D600 model. At the same time, the manufacturers took care to eliminate its shortcomings in the updated version of the camera. The new model features an updated shutter that allows for faster burst shooting up to 6 frames per second when autofocus is enabled, as well as support for DX lenses.
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The built-in flash allows you to take the camera with you when traveling. Despite the quite impressive weight - 850 grams without lens - this camera is still the lightest of all Nikon full-frame SLR cameras. The advantages of the model also include:
- good focusing on poorly lit objects;
- thoughtful case protection and powerful battery;
- presence of 2 slots for flash cards.
The main competitor of this camera is the Canon EOS 6D, which was announced in 2012. It has a full-frame 20.2 megapixel CMOS sensor and a powerful DIGIC 5+ processor.
The price of Nikon D610 Body in Moscow on Yandex.Market is from 56,500 to 78,529 rubles.
2nd place - Canon EOS 100D
Canon EOS 100D is the best amateur digital camera of 2015. Thanks to its small size and light weight, it can successfully compete with mirrorless cameras that are rapidly gaining popularity.
The EOS 100D has 9 focus points and a continuous shooting speed of 4 frames/sec. The model is equipped with a touch display and has a comfortable and ergonomic body. The EOS 100D can produce high-quality photos even in low light thanks to a maximum ISO of 12800 (with very low noise).
This feature and the mode for automatically selecting settings for shooting scenarios allow even less experienced amateur photographers to easily shoot dynamic scenes.
The cost of Canon EOS 100D Kit in Moscow on Yandex.Market is from 17,500 to 35,550 rubles.
3rd place - Nikon D7100
The new product from Nikon is equipped with a 24.1-megapixel DX sensor and EXPEED 3 processor. 51 points for automatic focusing and a very high burst shooting speed (6 frames/sec) are what will help you photograph objects in motion with high quality. It is worth noting that even in the dark, the autofocus of this model shows its best performance and does not require additional illumination.
The Nikon D7100 will provide sharp, high-quality pictures and videos thanks to the absence of a low-pass filter and a built-in noise reduction system, but the exposure meter in this camera does not always work accurately in artificial lighting conditions.
The built-in microphone will complicate the video recording process - the sound will not be clear and of high quality and may be drowned out by the sound of the lens. Like many Nikon cameras, this one has a dust- and water-resistant body.
The price of Nikon D7100 Body in Moscow on Yandex.Market is from 31,180 to 40,789 rubles.
The best mirrorless cameras
Mirrorless cameras are gaining more and more popularity among both amateur and professional photographers due to their wide functionality, high image quality and small size compared to DSLR cameras.
1st place - Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7
This is the best compact camera of 2015 among mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. It received recognition from amateur photographers for the high quality of images, support for a variety of optics, a convenient focusing system and, most importantly, for its high shutter speed.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 has interchangeable optics and was announced in August 2013, equipped with a 16-megapixel Digital Live MOS sensor with a movable mounting mechanism that is designed to stabilize the image.
The light sensitivity range of the Lumix GX7 can be expanded within the range of 125-25600. The built-in Venus Engine helps significantly reduce noise in photos.
Focus points can be set on the rotating touch screen (with its help you can perform exposure metering), and the focusing system itself (23 zones) allows you to adjust the focus even in moonlight. The high-speed shutter allows you to shoot at shutter speeds of up to 1/8000 s - today this is an undoubted record among mirrorless cameras.
The cost of Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 Kit in Moscow on Yandex.Market is from 36,362 to 53,060 rubles.
2nd place - Samsung NX300
This is the third model from the NX segment that has been released by Samsung over the past 1.5 years. Samsung NX300 received an extended ISO range (up to 25600 units) and a matrix with a resolution of 20.3 megapixels. Contrast focusing and phase detection autofocus sensors allow you to fine-tune image sharpness and produce contrasty shots, but the focusing system is relatively slow.
The shortest shutter speed of the NX300 is 1/3000 s. A special feature of this camera is the ability to shoot in 3D using a 45mm F1.8 lens. The SamsungNX300 does not have a built-in flash, but it does have a Wi-Fi module.
The cost of Samsung NX300 Kit in Moscow on Yandex.Market is from 12,999 to 27,990 rubles
3rd place - Olympus PEN E-P5
Launched in 2014, this new system camera's performance makes it comparable to many entry-level DSLRs. Due to its popularity among users, this model could be awarded the title " The best camera of 2014-2015" Olympus PEN E-P5 is based on:
- 16.1 megapixel Live MOS sensor
- TruePic VI processor
- mechanical shutter speed 1/8000 s
- Five-axis mechanical image stabilization
The PEN E-P5's autofocus system has received some improvements over older models. When it is turned off, the burst shooting speed with this camera reaches 9 frames per second, and when autofocus is turned on, it reaches 5 frames per second. The ISO range is from 100 to 25600. This advanced mirrorless camera also has a rotating touch display.
The cost of Olympus Pen E-P5 Kit in Moscow on Yandex.Market is from 38,382 to 59,990 rubles
conclusions
Today, the digital camera market is saturated with a variety of models aimed at all categories of consumers. The most famous digital camera manufacturers annually compete for the right to be called the best, releasing more and more new models.
The best DSLR camera of 2014 and 2015 was the Nikon D610, and the best mirrorless camera was the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7.
DSLR cameras are gradually consolidating their positions, competing with budget DSLRs, and new system mirrorless cameras: they are capable of obtaining very high-quality images in small dimensions and are distinguished by an impressive range of functions.
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