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Okay, it's one of those threads again, but I have some differences to the regular threads (I think!). I have a tendency to go into detail, so apologies in advance, but it should hopefully give you some background to my quandary.
I am appealing to the photography section here first, as I always read solid and balanced advice, and it's the first place I thought to come to.
What am I looking for?
A CSC/mirror-less camera with applicable lens system. I want the "feel" of focusing like a DSLR, without the bulk and relative "complication" compared to a P&S, as this won't just be for me to use, but I appreciate the feel that a lens body can give etc.
I want a slim body - as slim as possible - with a good quality kit lens that isn't too bulky. Assuming a pancake lens, a 22mm/24mm (or basically a 35mm equivalent) would be great with a nice wide aperture. Not a deal-breaker, but it's something that keeps it slim. Can buy other lenses later!
Initial gut feeling is that a bigger sensor is going to be more beneficial, but I do read/see some impressive results on non MFT sensors and the like. Is bigger generally better?
What will it be used for?
A mix; I want my future wife to be able to use it on auto/P&S modes, but I want to have some creative flexibility and to rekindle my photography interest again.
Our wedding is in June, as is the honeymoon (Sorrento), so I would like an all-around solution ideally, but have the option of some macro/still shooting, some indoor party-type shots (nice bright lens).
What do I know?
I know that this is a growing market for sure and that some manufacturers are well on-board and others are less committed at this point (Canon!). Lens systems are all seemingly new, as the position of the sensor compared to DSLRs is closer to the lens. Bit of a pain, but there you go - going to have to swallow that one to a degree.
It seems there are two types of mirror-less bodies: squashed DSLR feel or feature-packed P&S feel. That's my vague description and observations!
The fact that an SLR is going to have more flexibility cannot be denied; I want a happy medium that pleases us both. She won't use the DSLR (a very old 350D) and I am tired of using it, partially as the sensor seems to be 'going bad' with banding.
I've read lots of reviews of all sorts ... but I can't settle on anything in particular!
AF speeds for moving targets don't worry me entirely, but there are a plethora of options and variants of models out and about with things like WiFi, NFC, articulating screens, touch screen (haptic and capacitive), integrated flash, hot-shoe ...
In summary, I know that these mirror-less/CSC solutions are all very good in terms of PQ and will be a considerable upgrade from my 350D, which I only now have the kit lens (awful build quality) and the 50mm f/1.8 prime (complete with dust inside - they all seem to have dodgy quality control - all three I've had are the same, bar one which had a bubble in the lens). So I am not going to be too upset with a smidge of PQ difference between one or two - I'm a reasonable guy and most stuff will be looked at in 1080p, with no prints over A4 for us.
What have I looked at?
Initially, the Sony NEX range, as it's stunning. I've since looked at a lot of models and concluded that there are too many options! Some thoughts on what I have concluded - not always right, so please put me in my place if I'm a million miles off:
Sony: some reasonably priced; fully committed from what I can see; suited for P&S users; slim and numerous in supply. E mount lenses are in good supply.
Fuji: some super expensive, some more sensible. Retro look is very cool in the present! No clue on Fujinon lenses.
Canon: only one model, still requires an adaptor to use my existing lenses. CAF is very slow still, even after firmware updates. Not the prettiest and the grip is a bit poor. More of a mini-SLR than a P&S.
Panasonic: have seen lots, but not versed. LX7 seems super popular, but smaller sensor makes me feel less confident, despite the good reviews and opinions.
Nikon: I know very little, sadly.
What budget?
Like all good advice threads, I'd like to spend as little as possible, but I can create my own budget really. Under £500 is a good starting point, but I am aware that things can be had for half that.
New or Used?
The other half would always say 'new', but I'm not afraid of used, if it's mint and relatively new - I won't really buy older stuff in electronics if I can help it.
Can you help?
I am open to suggestions, thoughts, ideas and new ways of looking at this. I've gone around the counter twice on my 350D (barely touched in the last two years though), so I am confident that the camera I will buy will get more attention.
I won't rule anything out yet, unless there is a huge issue, flaw or catch that someone can highlight. If you've read this far, thank you!
tl;dr
It's been ages since I bought a DSLR - help me find a WAF friendly CSC/mirror-less kit.
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2-12-2019 06:19:47
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