The Difference Between a DLSR and Mirrorless Camera

With the advances we are making with cinematic and photographic content creation, there are all sorts of cameras that we use. One of the most basic cameras that is used by freelance and professional video production companies alike is the DSLR camera. However, there is another camera that many individuals confuse with the DSLRs, the mirrorless cameras. If you don’t know cameras, they may look alike and even function similarly. However, there are quite a few differences.

DSLR

The DSLR is arguably the most common camera used for photography and video production companies. The acronym stands for Digital Single-Lens Reflex, which essentially means that the user can capture an image on a digital sensor instead of film. In addition, there is a mirror within the camera that reflects the light that passes through the lens, giving you the shot you need. Even though the reflective mirror technology is an additional portion that the mirrorless cameras do not have, when you press down on the shutter button, the mirror automatically flips up and takes in the light with its image sensor, capturing the shot.

Considering there is a mirror and an image sensor inside DSLRs, these cameras are usually bigger and heavier than mirrorless cameras. For a lot of frequent camera users, this may seem like a big deal, but what the DSLR has that mirrorless doesn’t, is the ability to attach a wider variety of lenses that enhance the photographers shot. However, whether you are using a camera for a video production company or for freelance work, mirrorless cameras are just as good, if not better.

Mirrorless

For the most part, the mirrorless camera is not too different from a DSLR, it just doesn’t have a reflex mirror. This means that the camera’s sensor is exposed to direct light with every shot. While it may seem like a big deal that the lighting can be a little tricky to work with, there are lenses that can help the outcome of an overexposed mirrorless picture significantly. In addition, mirrorless cameras have phase and contrast detection sensors that sharpen the focus of their shots. Some people argue that the mirrorless camera is going to replace DSLR cameras. The reason for this is because of the quick and superior autofocus ability that it possesses. In fact, a lot of video production companies are starting to switch over to mirrorless cameras.

Conclusion

While the difference between DSLR cameras and mirrorless cameras may exist, both are truly great cameras. Whether you are new to photography and videography, there are A LOT of options, but DSLR and mirrorless cameras are most likely the way to go. However, as more advancements are being made to mirrorless cameras, as a beginner videographers may want to follow the example of video production companies and go with mirrorless cameras. They are more compact and are easier to use when focusing on subjects. Nonetheless, you cannot discredit the certain aspects of DSLR cameras that can’t be replaced.

If you are looking for a video production company to help you produce a high-quality video, contact us at Fusion 360. We have the expertise and experience you need when using cameras like these.