Full frame mirrorless camera: The best full frame mirrorless camera in 2023

10 Cheapest Full-Frame Mirrorless Cameras in 2023

Published: June 06, 2023

Full-frame cameras have never been so affordable before, it is not even hard to find options under 1,000 USD. Here is a list of 10 Cheapest full-frame mirrorless cameras in the market followed by a size comparison (click on the image for larger version) and specs comparison:

1. Sony Alpha A7 II – $899 (  AMAZON /  B&H PHOTO ) 
2. Nikon Z5 – $999(  AMAZON /  B&H PHOTO )
3. Canon EOS RP – $999 (  AMAZON /  B&H PHOTO )
4. Canon EOS R – $1,399 (  AMAZON /  B&H PHOTO )
5. Canon EOS R8 – $1,499 (  AMAZON /  B&H PHOTO )
6. Panasonic Lumix DC-S5 – $1,499 (  AMAZON /  B&H PHOTO )
7. Sony Alpha A7c – $1,599 (  AMAZON /  B&H PHOTO )
8. Sony Alpha A7 III – $1,699 (  AMAZON /  B&H PHOTO )
9. Nikon Z6 Mark II – $1,699 (  AMAZON /  B&H PHOTO )
10. Canon EOS R6  – $1,999 (  AMAZON /  B&H PHOTO )

Size Comparison of 10 Cheapest Full-frame Mirrorless Cameras

(Click on the image for larger version)

Specs Comparison of 10 Cheapest Full-frame Mirrorless Cameras

FEATURE and SPECS COMPARISON
Model	Sony Alpha A7 II	Sony Alpha A7 III	Nikon Z5	Canon EOS RP	Panasonic Lumix DC-S5	Canon EOS R8	Sony Alpha A7c	Nikon Z6 Mark II	Canon EOS R6
Sensor Resolution	24. 0 MP	24.0 MP	24.0 MP	26.0 MP	24.0 MP	24.0 MP	24.0 MP	25.0 MP	20.0 MP
Announced Date	2014-11-20	2018-02-27	2020-07-20	2019-02-14	2020-08-14	2023-02-08	2020-09-14	2020-10-14	2020-07-09
Camera Type	Pro Mirrorless	Pro Mirrorless	Advanced Mirrorless	Advanced Mirrorless	Pro Mirrorless	Advanced Mirrorless	Advanced Mirrorless	Pro Mirrorless	Pro Mirrorless
Sensor Type	CMOS	BSI-CMOS	CMOS	CMOS	CMOS	CMOS	BSI-CMOS	BSI-CMOS	CMOS
Sensor Size	Full frame	Full frame	Full frame	Full frame	Full frame	Full frame	Full frame	Full frame	Full frame
Sensor Sensitivity	ISO 100 – 25600( expands to 50 – 51200)	ISO 100 – 51200( expands to 50 – 204800)	ISO 100 – 51200( expands to 50 – 102400)	ISO 100 – 40000( expands to 50 – 102400)	ISO 100 – 51200( expands to 50 – 204800)	ISO 100 – 102400( expands to 50 – 204800)	ISO 100 – 51200( expands to 50 – 204800)	ISO 100 – 51200( expands to 50 – 204800)	ISO 100 – 102400( expands to 50 – 204800)
Lens Mount	Sony E	Sony E	Nikon Z	Canon RF	Leica L	Canon RF	Sony E	Nikon Z	Canon RF
Image Stabil.	Sensor-shift ( up to 4.5 stops)	Sensor-shift ( up to 5.0 stops)	Sensor-shift ( up to 5.0 stops)	Digital only	Sensor-shift ( up to 6.5 stops)	Digital only	Sensor-shift ( up to 5.0 stops)	Sensor-shift	Sensor-shift ( up to 8.0 stops)
Eye Tracking Focus
Weight	599g	650g	675g	485g	714g	461g	509g	705g	680g
Dimensions	127 x 96 x 60mm	127 x 96 x 74mm	134 x 101 x 70mm	133 x 85 x 70mm	133 x 97 x 82mm	133 x 86 x 70mm	124 x 71 x 60mm	134 x 101 x 70mm	138 x 98 x 88mm
Weather Sealing
Focus Points	117	693	273	4779	225	1053	693	273	6072
Animal Eye Tracking
Focus Stacking
Post Focus
Focus Bracket
Minimum Shutter	30 sec	30 sec	30 sec	30 sec	60 sec	30 sec	30 sec	30 sec	30 sec
Maximum Shutter	1/8000sec	1/8000sec	1/8000sec	1/4000sec	1/8000sec	1/4000sec	1/4000sec	1/8000sec	1/8000sec
Continuous Drive	5. 0fps	10.0fps	4.5fps	5.0fps	7.0fps	6.0fps	10.0fps	14.0fps	12.0fps
Max Video Reso	1920 x 1080	3840 x 2160	3840 x 2160	3840 x 2160	3840 x 2160	3840 x 2160	3840 x 2160	3840 x 2160	3840 x 2160
Video fps at Max	60p,60i,24p	30p,24p	30p, 25p, 24p	24p	60p,50p, 30p, 25p, 24p	60p,30p,24p	30p,25p,24p	30p, 25p, 24p	60p,30p, 23.98p
Video Formats	MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S	MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S, H.264	MPEG-4, H.264	MPEG-4, H.264	MPEG-4, H.264, H.265	MPEG-4, H.264, H.265	MPEG-4, XAVC S, H.264	MPEG-4, H.264	MPEG-4, H.264, H.265
UHS Support	UHS-I	UHS-II	UHS-II	UHS-II	UHS-II	UHS-II	UHS-II	UHS-II	UHS-II
Battery Life	350	610	470	250	440	290	740	410	360
Battery Model	NP-FW50	NP-FZ100	EN-EL15c	LP-E17	DMW-BLJ31	LP-E17	NP-FZ100	EN-EL15c	LP-E6NH
RAW Video
Webcam
Anti Flicker
Microphone Port
Headphone Port
Wifi
Weather Sealing
Timelapse
Screen Type	Tilting	Tilting	Tilting	Fully articulated	Fully articulated	Fully articulated	Fully articulated	Tilting	Fully articulated
Top LCD
LCD Size	3. 00″	3.00″	3.20″	3.00″	3.00″	3.00″	3.00″	3.20″	3.00″
Screen dots	1230000	921600	1040000	1040000	1840000	1620000	921600	2100000	1620000
Touch Screen
Viewfinder
Viewfinder Type	Electronic	Electronic	Electronic	Electronic	Electronic	Electronic	Electronic	Electronic	Electronic
Viewfinder Coverage	100%	100%	100%	100%	100%	100%	100%	100%	100%
Viewfinder Magnification	0.71x	0.78x	0.8x	0.7x	0.74x	0.76x	0.59x	0.8x	0.76x
Viewfinder Resolution	2,359,000	2,360,000	3690000	2,360,000	2,360,000	2,360,000	2,360,000	3,690,000	3,690,000
NFC
Selfie Friendly Screen
High Resolution Mode
AF Joystick
Bluetooth
Gyro data Stabilization
Vehicle Tracking
Live Composition
Price	Amazon, B&H Photo	Amazon, B&H Photo	Amazon, B&H Photo	Amazon, B&H Photo	Amazon, B&H Photo	Amazon, B&H Photo	Amazon, B&H Photo	Amazon, B&H Photo	Amazon, B&H Photo

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Carry less, shoot more. Welcome to the world of Fujifilm mirrorless digital cameras

Inside every DSLR is a large mirror that allows us to see directly through the camera’s lens when using the viewfinder. This mirror swings up out of the way when we shoot a picture, so light can reach the camera’s sensor, and then lowers back down afterwards, which adds more size and weight to a DSLR camera.

Mirrorless cameras don’t need this bulky optical viewfinder mechanism, letting photographers compose photos using an electronic viewfinder (EVF), or on a viewscreen as you would with a compact camera or smartphone. This results in a much lighter and smaller camera body.

ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDERS

• Look through an electronic viewfinder (EVF) and you’ll see the image exactly as you are about to capture it. Colour, depth-of-field, brightness and dynamic range can all be previewed as you compose a shot.
• What you see is what you get! With 100% viewfinder coverage you’ll be able to compose more accurately.
• FUJIFILM X Series cameras boast electronic viewfinders with up to 2.36-dot resolution, for fine detail and superb clarity.
• Virtually no viewfinder ‘lag’, for a responsive and natural shooting experience.
• Photographers who like to have the option of shooting with a traditional optical viewfinder should look at the FUJIFILM X-Pro2 and FUJIFILM X100F cameras. Both of these mirrorless cameras have hybrid viewfinders that swap between electronic and optical modes with the flick of a switch.

LESS SHAKE AND VIBRATION

• The movement of the mirror in a DSLR causes additional vibration, which can translate into camera-shake blur that spoils sharpness. Without the mirror, there are fewer vibrations and less chance of blur when you inspect an image for critical sharpness.
• Being smaller and lighter than DSLRs, mirrorless cameras are also easier to hold still when shooting.

SIZE AND WEIGHT

• There’s a saying in photography: ‘The best camera is the one you have with you’. With the FUJIFILM X Series, you don’t have to compromise on image quality in order to get a more portable camera.
• Mirrorless cameras aren’t just good for saving space in your bag; they’re also less intimidating in the eyes of your subjects. Small cameras are more discreet than DSLRs when shooting pictures, meaning you can take more natural and candid shots.
• Lenses in the X Series line-up are significantly smaller than those you’d buy for a DSLR. They offer incredible quality, too, and features such as Optical Image Stabilisation.

FAST AND ACCURATE FOCUSING

• There’s little difference between the speed with which DSLRs and mirrorless X Series cameras focus. However, some of our cameras can be fine-tuned for different forms of moving subject – great for sports, action and wildlife photographers.
• Focusing with mirrorless cameras is accurate, too. Autofocus (AF) is performed with the same digital sensor that captures the image, so there’s no discrepancy between what you see and what you get. Our X Series cameras are equipped with up to 325 AF points and can be set to focus on faces automatically – perfect for shallow-focus portraiture.

Q: WHAT IS THE BATTERY LIFE LIKE ON A MIRRORLESS CAMERA, COMPARED WITH A DSLR?

A: Mirrorless cameras use smaller batteries than DSLRs to help with portability, and it’s true that smaller batteries don’t pack as much charge as larger units. But this means that smaller batteries are more affordable and you’ll have more room in your bag for spares. You’ll also still get hundreds of shots from a single battery charge.
Some X Series cameras have an accessory battery grip that extends shooting time by using more than one battery at a time. For instance, the VPB-XT2 Vertical Power Booster for our XT-2 camera adds two extra batteries, for up to 1,000 shots.

Q: I USE MY DSLR IN LOW LIGHT WITH HIGH ISO. CAN I STILL DO THAT WITH A MIRRORLESS CAMERA?

A: Yes, FUJIFILM X Series cameras offer ISO sensitivities up to ISO 12,800, which can be expanded to ISO 51,200. Many XF lenses also feature Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS) and large apertures, plus you’ll find mirrorless cameras lighter to hold than DSLRs, which helps reduce blur from camera shake.

Q: ARE MIRRORLESS CAMERAS SLOW TO REACT? I’M WORRIED I’LL MISS THE MOMENT

A: Cameras such as the FUJIFILM X-T2 are ready to shoot in 0.03sec after you flick to power switch – that’s less time than it takes to raise it to your eye. Mirrorless cameras from our X Series range have become the tools of choice for many street and candid photographers who rely on their responsive handling to capture a decisive moment.

Q: DO PROFESSIONALS USE MIRRORLESS CAMERAS?

A: Increasingly so, yes. From weddings to travel to documentary to portraiture, you’ll find lots of professional photographers who have ditched their DSLRs for Fujifilm mirrorless cameras. Check out some of our Fujifilm X-Photographers to see what these machines can do in the hands of a seasoned professional.

X-Pro2

TAKE A DIFFERENT VIEW ON LIFE WITH A HYBRID VIEWFNDER

X-E3

SHARE YOUR STORY WITH EASY CAMERA TO SMARTPHONE TRANSFER

X100F

SMALL AND COMPACT – YOUR CONSTANT COMPANION

X-T2

CAPTURE ACTION AND FLEETING MOMENTS WITH A CAMERA THAT’S A READY WHEN YOU ARE

X-T20

GO ANYWHERE, SHOOT EVERYTHING WITH THIS GREAT ALL-ROUNDER

Top Full Frame Cameras 2021 | Reviews | Photo, video, optics

Source: pexels.com

The end of the year is the time to take stock. We will not stand aside and analyze what 2021 has added to the pedigree of photographic equipment. So if you are planning to upgrade your arsenal, trying on the first camera and want to choose the best full-frame camera (and full-frame cameras are always a high price tag, and you can’t miss the choice), or just curious about the latest photo news, the material below is for you.

How to choose a full-frame camera

The electronic viewfinders of mirrorless cameras show the image according to the selected shooting parameters. Source: stroy-podskazka.ru

1. SLRs or mirrorless cameras

SLR cameras got their name due to the mechanism of the movable mirror. It is needed so that the frame can be seen in the optical viewfinder window. Reflected from the mirror, the light enters the viewfinder. When the shutter is pressed, the mirror moves out of the way of the light flux so that it can fall on the camera’s matrix. Due to the size of the mechanism, SLR cameras are destined to be heavy. In full-frame mirrorless cameras, the light flux is directed directly to the matrix. They have fewer fragile elements, and they themselves are more compact than DSLRs. Through the optical viewfinder of SLR cameras, you can see about the same thing that the eye can see, while the electronic viewfinders of mirrorless cameras show the picture, taking into account the selected shooting parameters: shutter speed and aperture, ISO. In turn, SLR cameras have a large margin of autonomy. We wrote more about the differences between these types of cameras here.

2. Megapixels and inches

It is believed that the more megapixels, the better. This is true for the detailing of frames in large-format printing, for photos everything is not so clear.

Megapixels – this is the number of photosensitive points on the matrix, its resolution. These dots can be large and collect a lot of light, or small, capable of receiving less light, causing the image to lose brightness. It depends on the physical size of the matrix. With the same matrix size, the number of megapixels may differ. After all, to fit more megapixels in the same area, you need to reduce the size of the pixels. With equal resolution, a wider matrix will give a picture brighter and clearer.

The larger the sensor size, the brighter the picture will be. Source: goja.ru

3. Matrix

We talked about the importance of the dimensions of the matrix in the last paragraph. Now let’s talk about one feature that is presented as an important feature of new cameras. This is a back-illuminated matrix. In conventional matrices, light is partially scattered, while in new matrices, due to the grinding of the substrate to a thickness of 10-15 microns, it is not. Cameras with such matrices are more expensive, they are more fragile, and when using filters that weaken the light flux, their use becomes meaningless. Back-illuminated sensors are mainly used in astronomical photography.

4. ISO sensitivity

is an indicator of the sensitivity of the camera’s sensor. He is responsible for improving the quality of shooting in the dark. ISO can be lowered if it is possible to increase the shutter speed, for example, when working with a tripod. When photographing handheld, it is better not to experiment with shutter speed so as not to get a blurry frame, and simply increase the ISO.

If a camera with a small sensor has a high ISO in the indicators, it does not matter, since such a matrix is ​​not able to capture enough light without noise.

5. Dynamic Range

This is the camera’s ability to recognize and capture the light and dark details of a scene at the same time. The wider the dynamic range of the camera, the better. Measured in exposure steps. Exposure is controlled by three components: shutter speed, aperture and ISO.

An exposure step is a twofold increase or decrease in the amount of light that hits the camera’s sensor. By understanding what an exposure step is, you can compare shutter speed, aperture, and ISO. Simply put, if you shorten the shutter speed by 2 times (by 1 step), 2 times less light enters the matrix. The picture may come out dark. To compensate for this and bring the exposure back 1 stop, either open the aperture more or double the ISO.

6. Autofocus

The best kind of autofocus is a hybrid of contrast and phase detection. Source: canon.ru

Modern cameras usually use two types of autofocus: contrast and phase. The essence of contrast autofocus (it is used in both SLR and mirrorless cameras) is that the image in focus has more contrast than the image out of focus. To focus, the camera goes through different focus values, and reads in which direction the contrast has changed. This happens until the camera reaches the most contrasting position.

Phase detection autofocus originally appeared in SLR cameras. This is a construction of mirrors located under the matrix. It divides the incoming light beam in two (these parts are called phases) and reads which part of the sensor the light hit. If the object is in focus, then the light comes to the middle of the sensor. If not, closer to the center or edge of the sensor. Then the camera calculates how much the focus is wrong and in which direction it needs to be changed.

In mirrorless cameras, phase focusing has a slightly different look. Instead of a separate module for focusing, the main matrix is ​​​​used. To do this, in each pixel, the photodiode is divided into two parts, a microlens is installed above them. Further it is analyzed how much the focus missed.

Modern cameras have many smart focus modes. The mechanism can track eyes, faces, heads and bodies.

The exposure step is the distance between the available shutter speeds Source: pexels.com

7. Stabilization. Optical stabilization in lenses is provided by a movable lens unit. When the camera starts shaking, this block moves out of phase to compensate for the shaking. Thanks to optical stabilizers, the camera lenses move in the lens, but remain stationary relative to the subject.

Matrix stabilization is implemented directly into the camera. This is a mechanism that moves the matrix in antiphase to the resulting oscillations.

It is best to use matrix stabilization in combination with optical stabilization. In such cases, up to 8 stops of exposure can be compensated.

Electronic stabilization is also built into the cameras. It crops the image at the edges, narrowing the viewing angle.

8. Bitrate is important for video shooting. This is the amount of data that is encoded in a shot per second. Measured in megabits per second. The higher the bitrate, the better the video quality. However, high bitrate increases file size, so you will need a larger memory card.

Top full-frame cameras

Sony A7III has in-matrix image stabilization. Source: 35mmc.com

Below we will analyze the best and most current full-frame mirrorless cameras:

1. Sony A7III

Released three years ago, the camera is still a good alternative to other full-frame cameras, and in the secondary market it flies in an instant. The camera is based on a 24-megapixel matrix with back light. Buffer size – 89compressed or up to 40 uncompressed RAW files. The camera uses hybrid autofocus: both contrast and phase. There is eye tracking and face recognition. The stabilizer is implemented based on matrix shift. It compensates for 5 shutter speeds. The camera can shoot Full HD and 4K. The bit rate is up to 100 Mbps.

The Sony A7S III makes up for the relatively small number of megapixels with their size. Source: dphotoworld.net

2. Sony A7S III

Sony A7S III received a 12-megapixel back-illuminated sensor, as well as a large pixel, which gives a gain in dynamic range and high working ISO. The camera is well suited for shooting in low light conditions and up to ISO 6400 shows a good level of detail, devoid of noise. A five-axis stabilizer (compensates for up-down tilts, right-left tilts, up-down linear shifts, right-left linear shifts and rotation) is implemented on the basis of matrix shift.

An important advantage of the camera is the high quality of 4K shooting. When working with an external recorder, you can record a video stream of 4K 60fps with a color depth of 16 bits (ProRes Raw). When recording to a memory card, the maximum bit rate is 500 Mb/s.

The Sony A1 uses AI technology for autofocus. Source: photar.ru

3. Sony A1

This camera has a 50-megapixel sensor. Can shoot up to 30 fps in 12-bit RAW format. Sony A1 can record video in 8K at up to 25/30 fps and bitrates of 200 or 400 Mbps. The stabilization system is based on matrix shift. It compensates for fluctuations in five axes, providing a gain of up to 5.5 stops of exposure.

The camera uses a hybrid autofocus system. And machine learning technologies allow you to autofocus on the eyes of people and animals, as well as track an object in real time.

Nikon Z5 allows you to record video in the UHD 4K standard at 30 frames / s, although it scales the original image by a factor of 1.7. Source: nikon.ru

4. Nikon Z 6II

This camera has a 24.5-megapixel sensor, hybrid autofocus and five-axis sensor-shift stabilization that compensates for up to 4 stops in shutter speed. Camera rate of fire up to 14 fps.

Buffer size is 60 RAW frames. There is eye guidance. The camera allows you to record video in UHD 4K at 30 fps.

5. Nikon Z5

Nikon’s full-frame camera has a 24.3-megapixel sensor, hybrid autofocus (face and eye detection is available), as well as in-camera five-axis stabilization based on sensor shift. It provides a gain of up to 5 steps in exposure time. Rate of fire up to 4.5 frames / s.

When shooting in RAW, the buffer is enough for 40 frames. The camera allows you to record video in the UHD 4K standard at 30 frames / s, however, while scaling the original image by a factor of 1.7.

6. Panasonic Lumix DC-S5This camera has a 24MP sensor. It implements contrast autofocus with improved detection of the head, face and eyes, as well as five-axis stabilization based on sensor shift. It provides compensation of up to five exposure stops, or 6.5 when combined with optical lens stabilization.

The camera is equipped with an omnidirectional display and a maximum video resolution of 4K UHD at 60 fps. The continuous shooting speed with single-frame focusing reaches 7 frames / s, and the frame buffer allows you to shoot in a burst for 3.5 seconds when recording in RAW.

Combined with the optical stabilization of the lens, the matrix one gives a gain of 8 stops of exposure. Source: dphotoworld.net

7. Canon EOS R6

Canon EOS R6 matrix resolution is 20 megapixels. Rate of fire up to 20 fps with electronic shutter and up to 12 fps with mechanical shutter. Video recording in 4K at 60 fps at 230 Mbps and Full HD at 120 fps at 120 Mbps.

The camera also received a touch screen, movable in all planes. Autofocus covers almost the entire frame. Five-axis stabilization based on matrix shift. In combination with optical stabilization of the lens, it gives an 8-stop gain in exposure time.

Canon EOS R5 can record video in 8K resolution. Source: canon.uz

8. Canon EOS R5

Canon’s top model of full-frame cameras. The older and more expensive fellow Canon EOS R6. Their main differences are that the R5 has a higher resolution – 45 megapixels. In addition, he can write video in 8K resolution at 30 frames / s and a bit rate of 1300 Mbps, and 4K at 120 frames / s and a bit rate of 1880 Mbps. The rest of the cameras are similar.

Full Frame Mirrorless & SLR Cameras

Full Frame Mirrorless & SLR Cameras – Canon UK

ARTICLE

Action photographer Richard Walch compares the performance of Canon’s flagship full frame cameras EOS R5 and EOS-1D X Mark III.

German boxer Alem Begich practicing a punch during training. The Canon EOS R5 combines the high resolution of the EOS 5DS with the high-speed shooting capabilities of the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III, making it ideal for capturing action-packed sports. Thanks to this, she won a place in the arsenal of Richard Walch. Taken on a Canon EOS R5 with a Canon RF 28-70mm F2L USM lens at 135mm, 1/800 sec, f/2.8 and ISO1000. © Richard Walch

Which is better, a traditional full-frame DSLR or a full-frame mirrorless camera from the Canon EOS R line? We asked leading sports photographer and Canon Ambassador Richard Walch to compare Canon’s full-frame cameras.

Richard Walch is one of the most experienced photographers in the world. He has been using Canon cameras professionally for over 25 years. Richard is known for his sailing and winter sports photography and works in the most extreme fast moving environments where there are no second chances to get a shot. That’s why he chooses the right camera for every job.

“Before I get started, I try to figure out which system is right for me,” he explains. “Canon offers a wide range of full-frame DSLRs and lenses for them. I like the quality, high durability and long battery life.”

Richard has gone from the EOS-1D X to the EOS-1D X Mark II and now to the EOS-1D X Mark III. He says the main benefit of this DSLR is that it doesn’t take a lot of getting used to, which is incredibly important when creating action scenes.

After testing the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III under the toughest conditions, Richard has given it space in his bag and takes it on missions that involve expeditions. © Richard Walch

However, Richard is the best in the business because he is always looking for new opportunities to take his photography to the next level. Now, for many projects, that opportunity is the new technology in the Canon EOS R system and its revolutionary RF lenses.

“I rely on technology to help me achieve the vision of my shots. The Canon EOS R5 definitely deserves a place in my arsenal and is a pleasure to work with,” says Richard. “When you look at the specifications of the camera and start taking pictures, you immediately realize that it has features that will allow you to expand your creative possibilities.”

“For me, spontaneous images are the best, and the EOS R5 delivers stunning full-frame shooting in an ultra-portable body. Don’t forget that Canon has been working on the EOS line of digital SLR cameras for 30 years. They are very reliable and durable. So now I have a choice.”

How does he choose? What is the difference between full-frame DSLRs and the mirrorless full-frame EOS R system? What benefits does each offer from his professional point of view, and when does he use one over the other?

How do you decide what equipment to take on a shoot?

“The most important thing for me is how much free space I have and how much equipment I want to take with me. If we compare the Canon EOS R5 and EOS-1D X Mark III cameras, the main difference will be their weight and size – the EOS R5 is much more compact and much lighter. ”

“For the professional photographer, the main benefit of the EOS-1D X Mark III is that it doesn’t take a lot of getting used to. Go from EOS-1D X to EOS-1D X Mark II and then to EOS-1D X Mark III? There is nothing easier. All controls have a very convenient location. In addition, the optical viewfinder allows you to establish natural contact with the subject. You seize the moment; you see a picture and take it. We’ve been using this method of shooting for decades now.”

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The EOS-1D X Mark III is the most rugged camera in the Canon EOS line-up, and its powerful battery lasts for days of shooting. That’s why I always choose the EOS-1D X Mark III for expeditions or shooting in extreme conditions.

On the other hand, when shooting in less remote areas or in less challenging environments, I choose the EOS R5 for its superior performance. This is a very powerful camera. Both cameras support 20 fps, but the EOS R5 only has this feature when using the electronic shutter, so if you need high-speed continuous shooting with flash, this feature is only available on the EOS-1D X Mark III.”

Striking multiple exposure image of a skier jumping. Taken on a Canon EOS-1D X Mark II (now succeeded by the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III) with a Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens at 1/2000 sec, f /7.1 and ISO 200. © Richard Walch

In this photograph of a tightrope walker lit only by the flashlight he carries, the EOS R System demonstrates exceptional low-light performance. Taken on a Canon EOS R with a Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM lens at 24mm, 1/500 sec, f/3.5 and ISO1000. © Richard Walch

What are the main advantages you have found with Canon EOS R system cameras over full-frame DSLRs such as the EOS 5D Mark IV?

“The EOS R5, EOS R6 and EOS R cameras deliver phenomenal low-light performance. They allow you to shoot in the dark! This is possible thanks to the electronic viewfinder [EVF] and LCD screen, as well as autofocus in low light conditions, which allow you to continue shooting after dark. ”

“In addition, the controls are almost infinitely customizable, which means you can quickly select the shooting mode you want. Almost any function you want can be assigned to the RF lens control ring, such as exposure compensation or ISO.

Shooting with the electronic viewfinder has been a real eye-catcher – you’ll enjoy a completely realistic image when it comes to exposure and depth of field. You will certainly spend less time browsing files to check focus and exposure. This speeds up the shooting process so much that you can fully concentrate on the subject without distractions.

Since there are no mirrors in the EOS R System camera, it offers a silent shutter mode that allows you to take pictures in situations that were previously considered difficult.

When changing lenses with the camera turned off, the EOS R5, EOS R6 and EOS R automatically close the shutter to protect the image sensor. It is ideal for capturing action scenes in dusty or snowy areas. ”

Impressive close-up of a speed bike at the AMC Haunstetten race track in Augsburg, Germany. Richard Walch thinks the Canon EOS R6’s compact size and light weight is definitely an advantage for some applications. Taken on a Canon EOS R6 with a Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM lens at 500mm, 1/160 sec, f/7.1 and ISO100. © Richard Walch

Are there any downsides to shooting with an EOS R system camera?

“Of course, if you’re moving from one Canon DSLR to another, you don’t have to learn anything. The cameras of the EOS R System are somewhat different and take some getting used to. But if you want to take it to the next level, you need to put in some time.”

“Mirrorless cameras tend to use up battery life faster, so if shooting time is important to you, you can bring extra batteries with you or opt for a traditional DSLR.

It is also important to consider that mirrorless cameras are equipped with an electronic viewfinder. When shooting fast action, such as car racing, when you have to turn the camera sharply to the sides, even on the EOS R5 and EOS R6 cameras, there is a slight delay in the electronic viewfinder. This is a problem that is very annoying for some photographers, but not for many.”

What about lens choices?

“Canon offers a wide range of EF and EF-S lenses for DSLRs. They can also be used on EOS R system cameras thanks to the clever EF-EOS R mount adapters. These adapters do not restrict light or change focal length like a teleconverter. The adapters are designed by the same engineers who designed the EF and RF lenses, so they deliver truly uncompromising quality and functionality.

“In fact, they’ve made it even more powerful with a control ring adapter that provides a new interface for EF and EF-S lenses. There is also a plug-in filter mount adapter that allows you to use, for example, an ND filter or a circular polarizing filter. I used the EOS R with telephoto lenses like the EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM and EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x on safari and it did the job perfectly. You can trust the adapter.”

With built-in 5-axis image stabilization, the EOS R5 is stable even when using lenses without built-in image stabilization, such as the Canon RF 28-70mm F2L USM lens pictured here. © Elias Maria

What can you say about the new RF lenses?

“The Canon EOS R System features a larger RF mount that makes a previously unattainable lens design possible. In addition, the quality of the lenses is truly exceptional.

I had the opportunity to test several RF lenses in action. The Canon RF 28-70mm F2L USM zoom lens has become my favorite. This is an L-series lens with fantastic quality made possible by the design of the RF mount. I like its versatility and the shallow depth of field that comes with opening down to f/2. It’s just magical.”

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“It’s quite heavy, but it can replace three prime lenses. If you normally use 28mm, 50mm and 85mm lenses, you can leave them at home and only use this zoom. ”

“For example, a wedding photographer might take one camera and one zoom lens. They will work faster and be completely silent.”

“If you’re looking for compact, affordable gear, the combination of the small, lightweight Canon RF 35mm F1.8 Macro IS STM and RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM lenses is the perfect fit. In addition, there is a trio of professional zoom lenses – Canon RF 15-35mm F2.8L IS USM, RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM and RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM – that can be supplemented with specialized models, including the incredibly versatile Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM lens.

“A range of fast RF lenses, such as the Canon RF 50mm F1.2L USM, proves that the EOS R System delivers high performance in low light. It allows you to work with really shallow depth of field. And the optical design is so good that they can be used with the maximum aperture. You don’t have to stop to get clear images. Of course, at full aperture, the depth of field is so shallow that you need precise autofocus. ”

Richard used the EOS R to photograph German tightrope walkers on the northwest coast of Ireland for the One Inch Dreams project. The team performed death stunts, so there was no way to retake shots, but thanks to the EOS R System’s low-light autofocus, every shot of Richard came out right the first time. Taken on a Canon EOS R with a Canon EF 11-24mm f/4L USM lens at 1/640 sec, f/5.6 and ISO640. © Richard Walch

How is autofocus different?

“The EOS-1D X Mark III offers an impressive autofocus system that is ideal for shooting sports and action scenes, but when developing the EOS R5 and EOS R6, engineers have gone to great lengths to make autofocus even better. And in fact, the magic of these two cameras lies in the eye recognition technology, which works on both humans and animals. She’s incredible.”

“All three devices have a built-in deep learning autofocus system that analyzes hundreds of thousands of different images. Therefore, when the camera sees a snowboarder, she understands that he is wearing a protective helmet and goggles. She knows how to act in such cases and what should be in focus. It works even when the eyes are hidden by glasses. And if the athlete turns away, the focus still remains on the helmet. It’s just incredible technology.”

Richard is known for capturing action-packed scenes in all conditions, such as this photograph of a horse race taken from an unusual angle. Taken on a Canon EOS-1D X Mark II at 1/2500 sec, f/4 and ISO250. © Richard Walch

What type of camera is best for recording movies?

“This is a difficult question to answer as each camera has its own advantages. It’s amazing that the EOS R5 can internally record in 8K 12-bit RAW and 10-bit 4:2:2 in a small size, something that was absolutely impossible before. The EOS-1D X Mark III is larger and more durable. Its battery life allows you to shoot longer in 4K RAW or 8-bit 4:2:2.

If you want to shoot in 4K at 120 fps, the only camera you can do is the EOS R5. The EOS-1D X Mark III and EOS R6 only support 4K up to 60fps, while the EOS R and EOS 5D Mark IV only support 4K up to 30fps. ”

“It doesn’t matter if it’s a mirrorless camera or a DSLR. Unlike the EOS-1D X Mark III, the EOS R5, EOS R6 and EOS R cameras allow you to shoot from different angles with ease thanks to the adjustable-angle touch screen. These models feature Dual Pixel CMOS AF for smooth, precise focusing when recording video, but touch AF is easier to use on the EOS R’s tilting screen.

The EOS R5, EOS R6 and EOS-1D X Mark III are also powerful video cameras with their advanced autofocus system and touch display. The ability to focus on your subject with a single tap on the rear screen is incredibly useful when you’re shooting alone.

What is your ideal combination now?

Before the introduction of the EOS R5, the EOS-1D X Mark II was the go-to camera for action sports, and the EOS R was seen as the go-to solution for parties where you need to be fast and stealthy while still working in low light.

When I go to the mountains, the weight of the equipment becomes one of the main criteria, and now my ideal combination was the EOS R5 camera with an additional battery grip that allows you to work longer without recharging, and a trio of professional RF f/2. 8 zoom lenses . For portraits, I go for the Canon RF 28-70mm F2L USM, and if I want to get creative, I add two other amazing lenses from this range, the Canon RF 50mm F1.2L USM and the RF 85mm F1.2L USM.

When durability and longevity are most important, I use the EOS-1D X Mark III. However, the EOS R5 and EOS R6 are very powerful cameras, especially considering their weight and size. Therefore, these two cameras are ideal for you if their advantages are important in your work, and also if you are trying to use the most advanced technologies.”

By Adam Duckworth

Equipment by Richard Walch

Equipment that professionals use to take pictures

Canon EOS R5

A full-frame mirrorless camera that opens up new creative possibilities for photographers and videographers. “It delivers amazing full-frame shooting quality in an ultra-portable body, and it’s loaded with features that let you expand your creative options,” says Richard.

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Canon EOS-1D X Mark III

The Canon EOS-1D X Mark III delivers class-leading performance with a highly sensitive 20.1 MP full-frame CMOS image sensor, deep learning autofocus, and support for shooting video in 5.5K RAW. “When it comes to shooting action scenes, it’s hard to beat,” says Richard. “Lightning fast autofocus even at 20 fps so you never miss a shot.”

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Canon RF 28-70mm F2L USM

This lens is 28- 70mm at f/2 delivers the superb image quality of a fixed-lens lenses. The f/2 aperture, which is maintained throughout the zoom range, allows you to capture stunning images in low light. “An L-series lens with fantastic quality made possible by the new RF mount design,” says Richard.

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Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM

This zoom-object 70-200 mm with a diaphragm f/2. 8, as well as a quick and silent nano USM focus technology and image stabilizer with an effect, image stabilizer. equivalent to 5 shutter speeds, will be small and light, but still a full-fledged “workhorse” for photographers and videographers.

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Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x

Professional 200-400mm f/4 lens with built-in 1.4x extender that extends focal lengths to 280-560mm. A 4-stop Image Stabilizer ensures maximum sharpness. Intuitive controls for ease of use.

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Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM

A constant maximum aperture of f/2.8, Large Diameter Dual Surface (GMo) lenses, and Advanced Air Sphere and Subwavelength Coating make this possible. premium ultra-wide-angle zoom lens for exceptional image quality even in low light.

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Canon EF 11-24mm f/4L USM

This super-wide-angle, straight-line zoom lens has minimal distortion throughout the zoom range and captures the world around you from incredible perspective. The build quality of the L-series will keep you going even in difficult weather conditions.

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Canon EF-EOS R Mount Adapter

EOS R system adapters provide full compatibility with Canon EF and EF-S lenses, giving Canon EOS R5, EOS R6 and EOS R owners who already own a DSLR camera EOS, the ability to use existing lenses. According to Richard, the EOS R System cameras support EF and RF lens communication protocols by default, so they are compatible with models from both lines.

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