photography, Street Photography
FULL FRAME still isn’t for me. Here’s why…
Are you a photography enthusiast who has heard a lot about full frame cameras but still find yourself sticking to your trusty APS-C or Micro Four Thirds system? You are not alone. Many photographers, both amateurs and professionals alike, have chosen to stay away from full frame cameras for various reasons. In this blog, we will explore the reasons why many photographers believe that full frame still isn’t for them. From cost considerations to portability issues, there are several factors that make photographers opt for smaller sensor cameras. So, if you’ve been on the fence about making the leap to full frame, read on to find out why it might not be the right choice for you.
Why Full Frame Still Isn’t for Me
Introduction
Hello everybody, 18 months ago I made a video about why I was ditching full-frame cameras. While I stand by those reasons, it wasn’t my best video. However, since then, I have been using my Panasonic Lumix G9 and loving it. In fact, I have become a Lumix ambassador, which allows me to test new kit, like the Lumix S1R. Despite its advancements, I have decided to stick with the G9. Here’s why…
The Issue of Compromise
Photography gear always involves compromise. We can’t all walk around with expensive medium format cameras. For my personal needs, the G9 is a better fit than the S1R. It comes down to what I need for my photography and video work.
The Challenge of Portability
In my camera bag, I carry a lot of equipment. My bag is already full with two camera bodies, lenses, and a drone. Adding a full-frame setup would simply be too bulky and heavy. The size and weight of full-frame lenses, especially telephoto and wide-angle lenses, make them impractical for my needs.
The Sensor and Image Quality
There’s no denying that full-frame cameras have superior sensors, offering higher resolution, dynamic range, and low-light performance. However, the G9’s 20 megapixels, combined with the high-res mode and bracketing capabilities, have been more than sufficient for my photography needs. The image quality compromises I make with the G9 do not significantly affect my work.
Ease of Use and Stabilization
Both the G9 and S1R have excellent ergonomics and electronic viewfinders (EVFs). I find EVFs to be incredibly useful and can’t understand why some people still dislike them. Additionally, the stabilization on the G9 impresses me, and even though the S1R has a larger sensor, they have managed to match its performance. This advancement makes me believe that tripods may become obsolete in the near future.
The Bottom Line
While the Lumix S1R is undoubtedly a phenomenal camera, it simply doesn’t meet my specific needs. The compromises I would have to make, such as carrying less gear or sacrificing the convenience of having two camera bodies, outweigh the benefits of upgrading to full-frame. For now, I am more than happy with the G9 and the exceptional results it consistently delivers.
Frequently Asked Questions – FULL FRAME still isn’t for me. Here’s why…
1. What does “FULL FRAME” mean in photography?
“FULL FRAME” refers to a type of image sensor found in some digital cameras, which is equivalent to the size of a traditional 35mm film frame. Cameras with full-frame sensors offer larger pixels and a wider field of view compared to other sensor sizes.
2. Why might FULL FRAME not be suitable for everyone?
While full-frame cameras have their advantages, they may not be suitable for everyone due to certain factors, including:
- Cost: Full-frame cameras tend to be more expensive than cameras with smaller sensors, making them less accessible for budget-conscious individuals.
- Size and weight: Full-frame cameras are generally bulkier and heavier, which may not be ideal for users who prefer compact and lightweight equipment.
- Depth of field: While full-frame cameras offer a shallow depth of field, this can be a disadvantage for photographers who require a larger depth of field, such as landscape or architectural photographers.
- Lens compatibility: Full-frame cameras require lenses specifically designed for this sensor size, and these lenses can be more costly compared to lenses for smaller sensor cameras.
3. Are there any alternatives to full-frame cameras?
Absolutely! There are numerous alternatives to full-frame cameras, including:
- APS-C or crop sensor cameras: These cameras have smaller sensors, making them more affordable and often more portable. They offer excellent image quality and are suitable for a wide range of photography genres.
- Mirrorless cameras: These cameras have interchangeable lenses like full-frame cameras but are generally more compact and lightweight due to their lack of a mirror mechanism.
- Micro Four Thirds cameras: These cameras utilize a smaller sensor format but are known for their exceptional portability and a wide range of high-quality lenses.
4. Should I invest in a full-frame camera?
Investing in a full-frame camera depends on your specific photography needs, budget, and preferences. While full-frame cameras offer numerous advantages, it’s essential to consider factors like cost, size, desired depth of field, and lens compatibility. Exploring alternative options might provide you with equally impressive results at a more affordable price point.
Remember to do thorough research, consider your shooting style, and consult with professionals or experienced photographers before making a significant investment in any camera system.
I hope you find useful my article FULL FRAME still isn’t for me. Here’s why…, I also recommend you to read my other posts in my blog at this link.
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Best of luck! and follow your passion.
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