Table of Contents
1. Olympus OM-D E-M5
The Olympus OM-D E-M5 is the unmatched OM-D retro camera most worth owning today. The OM-D E-M5 is equipped with a 16 megapixel Live MOS sensor, a 3-inch OLED screen, and a 1.44-megapixel electronic viewfinder. In addition to recording video in full 1080p full HD, it can also capture 9.2 frames per second in burst mode. Those who have deep knowledge of the camera would be pleased to know that the camera also offers the ability to customize with two function keys. Like all other Olympus ILCs, the OM-D E -M5 also shoots RAW images.
Olympus OM-D E-M5 16MP Live MOS Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3.0-Inch Tilting OLED Touchscreen [Body Only] (Black) (Discontinued by Manufacturer): Buy it now
Design and Build Quality
The Olympus OM-D E-M5, released in 2012, is a flagship mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera (MILC) designed for enthusiasts and professionals seeking advanced imaging capabilities in a compact and weather-sealed body. It features a classic retro-inspired design reminiscent of traditional SLR cameras, with dimensions of 121 x 89.6 x 41.9 mm and a weight of approximately 425 grams (body only). The camera body is constructed from magnesium alloy, offering durability and a premium feel, while also being dust-proof and splash-proof for outdoor photography.
Image Quality
The OM-D E-M5 is equipped with a 16.1-megapixel Micro Four Thirds Live MOS sensor and Olympus’s TruePic VI image processor. The Micro Four Thirds sensor size strikes a balance between compactness and image quality, allowing for good light-gathering capabilities and delivering detailed images with excellent color reproduction and dynamic range. The TruePic VI processor enhances image processing speed, reduces noise at higher ISO settings, and enables impressive low-light performance, making the E-M5 suitable for a wide range of photographic genres.
Lens and System Capabilities
One of the strengths of the OM-D E-M5 is its compatibility with a vast selection of Micro Four Thirds lenses, offering versatility for different shooting scenarios. Olympus and other manufacturers provide a range of lenses from wide-angle to telephoto, including premium primes and zooms. The camera features 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which compensates for camera shake across both horizontal and vertical axes, as well as pitch, yaw, and roll movements. This stabilization system is effective in achieving sharp images and smooth video recording, even with non-stabilized lenses.
Performance
In terms of performance, the OM-D E-M5 offers responsive operation and impressive autofocus capabilities. The camera utilizes Olympus’s FAST (Frequency Acceleration Sensor Technology) AF system, which combines contrast detection and on-chip phase detection autofocus for quick and accurate focusing. The AF system performs well in various lighting conditions, including low light, ensuring sharp focus on subjects with minimal hunting. The TruePic VI processor contributes to minimal shutter lag and fast continuous shooting speeds up to 9 frames per second (fps), making the E-M5 suitable for capturing fast-action scenes and wildlife photography.
Video Recording
The OM-D E-M5 supports Full HD 1080p video recording at 30 frames per second with stereo sound. Olympus includes manual exposure control and adjustable audio levels during video recording, providing flexibility for videographers and filmmakers. The camera features a built-in stereo microphone and supports external microphone connectivity via a 3.5mm microphone input, allowing for enhanced audio capture and production quality. The 5-axis IBIS system benefits video recording by stabilizing footage, reducing camera shake, and delivering smooth, professional-looking videos.
Electronic Viewfinder and Display
For composing shots, the OM-D E-M5 features a high-resolution 1.44 million-dot electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 100% frame coverage and a 120 fps refresh rate. The EVF offers a clear and detailed view of the scene, with real-time exposure and white balance adjustments visible before capture. Additionally, the camera includes a tilting 3.0-inch OLED touchscreen monitor with approximately 610,000 dots, providing flexibility for shooting at high or low angles and navigating through menus with touch controls.
Controls and Customization
The OM-D E-M5 is designed with manual control enthusiasts in mind, featuring dual control dials and a mode dial for quick access to shooting modes and settings. The camera offers customizable function buttons and a Super Control Panel interface for adjusting key parameters such as aperture, shutter speed, ISO sensitivity, and white balance. Olympus includes Art Filters and Picture Modes for creative effects directly in-camera, catering to photographers looking to enhance their images with artistic flair.
Connectivity and Storage
For connectivity, the OM-D E-M5 includes a USB port for data transfer and charging, as well as a Micro HDMI output for viewing photos and videos on a compatible TV or monitor. The camera supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards for storage, providing ample space for storing high-resolution images and videos. Additionally, Olympus offers optional accessories such as the HLD-6 Power Battery Grip for extended shooting sessions and enhanced handling.
Battery Life
The OM-D E-M5 is powered by a rechargeable BLN-1 lithium-ion battery pack. Olympus rates the battery life for approximately 360 shots per charge under typical usage conditions. Users may opt to carry spare batteries or utilize external power sources for extended shooting sessions, especially during travel or professional assignments.
Software and Features
Olympus includes a range of shooting modes and advanced features in the OM-D E-M5 to cater to different photography styles and preferences. The camera offers Full Manual Control for precise exposure adjustments, as well as semi-automatic modes like aperture priority and shutter priority. Advanced features include High Dynamic Range (HDR) shooting, Multiple Exposure mode, and Focus Peaking for manual focus accuracy, enhancing creative possibilities and control over image composition.
Usability and Handling
The OM-D E-M5 is designed for ergonomic comfort and intuitive operation, featuring a weather-sealed body with a deep grip and well-placed controls. The camera’s compact size and lightweight design make it suitable for extended shooting sessions and travel, while the dual control dials and customizable buttons facilitate efficient workflow and quick access to essential settings. The inclusion of the EVF and touchscreen monitor enhances usability, allowing photographers to compose shots accurately and navigate through menus with ease.
Value for Money
The Olympus OM-D E-M5 offered excellent value for its price range when it was released, providing advanced features, robust performance, and superior image quality in a compact and weather-sealed package. It appealed to photography enthusiasts and professionals seeking a versatile and portable camera for various genres, including landscape, portrait, street photography, and travel. Despite being an older model, its 5-axis IBIS, fast autofocus system, and comprehensive feature set continue to resonate with users looking for a reliable and capable mirrorless camera system.
Conclusion
The Olympus OM-D E-M5 is a versatile and capable mirrorless camera that excels in image quality, performance, and usability. It combines a high-resolution sensor, advanced image processor, versatile lens compatibility, and robust build quality to deliver exceptional results in diverse shooting conditions. Whether used for professional assignments, creative projects, or everyday photography, the E-M5 remains a solid choice for users seeking portability, versatility, and superior image quality in a compact and stylish camera system.
This review provides a comprehensive overview of the Olympus OM-D E-M5, highlighting its strengths in design, image quality, performance, features, usability, and overall value proposition.
2. Sony Alpha NEX-5N
Since launching its wood-block designs at the PMA, Sony has been eager to launch the NEX-5 and NEX-3 Alpha-3 lenses – ILCs. The smallest to the present, with many features, attract both professional photographers and professional photographers. However, some shortcomings can make you unhappy: These two cameras are identical in only two: the first is the body design of the more advanced NEX-5 made of composite Needle mags, while NEX-3 is made of polycarbonate. The second one is the NEX-5, which offers full HD AVCHD video recording.
Sony NEX-5N 16.1 MP Compact Interchangeable Lens Touchscreen Camera With 18-55mm Lens (Silver): Buy it now
Design and Build Quality
The Sony Alpha NEX-5N, released in 2011, is a compact and lightweight mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera (MILC) designed for enthusiasts and photographers seeking high-quality imaging capabilities in a portable form factor. It features a sleek and modern design, with dimensions of 110.8 x 58.8 x 38.2 mm and a weight of approximately 269 grams (body only). The camera body is constructed from high-grade magnesium alloy and polycarbonate materials, offering durability and a premium feel.
Image Quality
The NEX-5N is equipped with a 16.1-megapixel APS-C sized Exmor HD CMOS sensor and Sony’s BIONZ image processor. The APS-C sensor size, typically found in DSLR cameras, allows for excellent light-gathering capabilities and delivers detailed images with low noise levels and impressive dynamic range. The BIONZ processor enhances image processing speed, reduces noise in high ISO settings, and enables fast performance, making the NEX-5N suitable for a wide range of photography genres, including portraits, landscapes, and low-light shooting.
Lens and System Capabilities
One of the strengths of the NEX-5N is its compatibility with Sony’s E-mount lenses, offering versatility for different shooting scenarios. Sony and third-party manufacturers provide a range of lenses from wide-angle to telephoto, including premium primes and zooms. The camera features SteadyShot INSIDE sensor-shift image stabilization, which compensates for camera shake and supports stabilization for both photo and video recording. This stabilization system is effective in achieving sharp images and steady footage, even with non-stabilized lenses.
Performance
In terms of performance, the NEX-5N offers responsive operation and fast autofocus capabilities. The camera utilizes Sony’s Fast Hybrid AF system, which combines contrast detection and phase detection autofocus for quick and accurate focusing. The Fast Hybrid AF system performs well in various lighting conditions, ensuring sharp focus on subjects with minimal lag. The BIONZ processor enables continuous shooting at up to 10 frames per second (fps) in Speed Priority Continuous mode, making the NEX-5N suitable for capturing fast-action scenes and sports photography.
Video Recording
The NEX-5N supports Full HD 1080p video recording at 60 frames per second with stereo sound. Users can also record HD 720p videos at 30 frames per second for high-quality video capture. Sony includes manual exposure control, adjustable audio levels, and microphone input options for enhanced audio recording, catering to videographers and filmmakers. The camera features Full-time Continuous AF during video recording, ensuring smooth focus transitions and tracking moving subjects effectively.
Electronic Viewfinder and Display
For composing shots, the NEX-5N offers a 3.0-inch tilting LCD monitor with a resolution of approximately 921,600 dots. The tilting design allows the LCD monitor to tilt up 80 degrees and down 45 degrees, providing flexibility for shooting at high or low angles and capturing self-portraits or ground-level shots. While the camera lacks a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF), Sony offers an optional FDA-EV1S OLED Electronic Viewfinder for users preferring a traditional shooting experience with real-time composition and framing.
Controls and Customization
The NEX-5N is designed with manual control enthusiasts in mind, featuring a mode dial and customizable function buttons for quick access to shooting modes and settings. The camera includes a control wheel for adjusting exposure compensation, aperture, shutter speed, and other shooting parameters manually. Sony incorporates Creative Styles and Picture Effects for adding artistic touches to photos directly in-camera, enhancing creative expression and versatility in photo composition.
Connectivity and Storage
For connectivity, the NEX-5N includes a Micro HDMI port for viewing photos and videos on a compatible TV or monitor, as well as a Multi Interface Shoe for attaching external accessories such as flashes and microphones. The camera supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards for storage, providing ample space for storing high-resolution images and videos. Sony offers optional accessories such as the LA-EA2 Mount Adapter for using A-mount lenses with full autofocus compatibility, expanding lens options for NEX-5N users.
Battery Life
The NEX-5N is powered by a rechargeable NP-FW50 lithium-ion battery pack. Sony rates the battery life for approximately 430 shots per charge using the LCD monitor under typical usage conditions. Users may opt to carry spare batteries or utilize external power sources for extended shooting sessions, especially during travel or professional assignments.
Software and Features
Sony includes a range of shooting modes and advanced features in the NEX-5N to cater to different photography styles and preferences. The camera offers Sweep Panorama mode for capturing expansive panoramic images, as well as Auto HDR mode for optimizing dynamic range in high-contrast scenes. Advanced features include Multi-frame Noise Reduction for reducing noise in low-light conditions and D-Range Optimizer for enhancing shadow and highlight details, enhancing overall image quality and creative control.
Usability and Handling
The NEX-5N is designed for ergonomic comfort and intuitive operation, featuring a compact and lightweight body that fits comfortably in hand. The camera’s streamlined interface and customizable controls facilitate efficient workflow and quick access to essential settings, allowing photographers to focus on framing shots and capturing decisive moments without distractions. The inclusion of the tilting LCD monitor enhances usability, enabling flexible shooting angles and precise composition.
Value for Money
The Sony Alpha NEX-5N offered excellent value for its price range when it was released, providing advanced features, superior image quality, and versatile lens compatibility in a compact and portable package. It appealed to photography enthusiasts and professionals seeking a mirrorless camera system with DSLR-like performance and creative flexibility. Despite being an older model, its APS-C sensor, fast autofocus system, and comprehensive feature set continue to resonate with users looking for a capable and reliable camera system for various photography genres.
Conclusion
The Sony Alpha NEX-5N is a versatile and capable mirrorless camera that excels in image quality, performance, and usability. It combines a high-resolution sensor, advanced autofocus capabilities, versatile lens compatibility, and ergonomic design to deliver exceptional results in diverse shooting conditions. Whether used for professional assignments, creative projects, or everyday photography, the NEX-5N remains a solid choice for users seeking portability, versatility, and superior image quality in a compact and stylish camera system.
This review provides a comprehensive overview of the Sony Alpha NEX-5N, highlighting its strengths in design, image quality, performance, features, usability, and overall value proposition.
3. Canon EOS 600D
The Canon EOS 600D is a great choice for DSLR users to shoot video in terms of price. Although less expensive than the Canon EOS 550D, the EOS 600D still has all the features if you do not need to use a rotating LCD screen, and it is also the smart choice for creative photographers. In general, the image quality and performance of the Canon EOS 600D are good, but if you want to use it to capture sports, kids, or pets, the EOS 600D may not be suitable.
Canon EOS 600D (European EOS Rebel T3i) 18 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera and DIGIC 4 Imaging with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens: Buy it now
Design and Build Quality
The Canon EOS 600D, released in 2011, is a mid-range digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera designed for photography enthusiasts and beginners seeking advanced imaging capabilities in a user-friendly package. It features a classic DSLR design with dimensions of 133.1 x 99.5 x 79.7 mm and a weight of approximately 570 grams (body only). The camera body is constructed from high-quality polycarbonate materials, offering durability and a comfortable grip for extended shooting sessions.
Image Quality
The EOS 600D is equipped with an 18.0-megapixel APS-C sized CMOS sensor and Canon’s DIGIC 4 image processor. The APS-C sensor size allows for excellent light-gathering capabilities and delivers detailed images with accurate colors, low noise levels, and good dynamic range. The DIGIC 4 processor enhances image processing speed, reduces noise in high ISO settings, and enables fast performance, making the EOS 600D suitable for various photography genres, including portraits, landscapes, and low-light shooting.
Lens Compatibility and System Capabilities
One of the strengths of the EOS 600D is its compatibility with Canon’s extensive lineup of EF and EF-S lenses, offering versatility for different shooting scenarios. Canon and third-party manufacturers provide a range of lenses from wide-angle to telephoto, including premium primes and zooms. The camera features a 9-point autofocus (AF) system with a cross-type center point for enhanced accuracy and subject tracking. Canon includes Optical Image Stabilization (IS) in select lenses to minimize the effects of camera shake, ensuring sharp images and stable video recording.
Performance
In terms of performance, the EOS 600D offers responsive operation and reliable autofocus capabilities. The camera utilizes Canon’s AI Servo AF system for continuous autofocus tracking of moving subjects, making it suitable for sports photography and action scenes. The DIGIC 4 processor enables continuous shooting at up to 3.7 frames per second (fps), allowing users to capture a series of shots in quick succession and capture decisive moments effectively.
Video Recording
The EOS 600D supports Full HD 1080p video recording at 30 frames per second with stereo sound. Users can also record HD 720p videos at 60 frames per second for smooth motion capture. Canon includes manual exposure control and adjustable audio levels during video recording, providing flexibility for videographers and filmmakers. The camera features Movie Servo AF for continuous autofocus tracking during video recording, ensuring smooth focus transitions and subject tracking in real-time.
Viewfinder and LCD Display
For composing shots, the EOS 600D features a pentamirror optical viewfinder with approximately 95% frame coverage and 0.85x magnification. The optical viewfinder provides a clear and detailed view of the scene, with real-time exposure and white balance adjustments visible before capture. Additionally, the camera includes a 3.0-inch Vari-angle Clear View LCD monitor with approximately 1.04 million dots. The Vari-angle design allows the LCD monitor to articulate and rotate, providing flexibility for shooting at high or low angles and capturing self-portraits or ground-level shots.
Controls and Customization
The EOS 600D is designed with both beginners and advanced users in mind, featuring a mode dial and intuitive controls for quick access to shooting modes and settings. The camera includes dedicated buttons for essential functions such as ISO sensitivity, white balance, and exposure compensation. Canon incorporates Creative Filters and Picture Styles for adding artistic effects to photos directly in-camera, enhancing creative expression and versatility in photo composition.
Connectivity and Storage
For connectivity, the EOS 600D includes a USB port for data transfer and remote control, as well as an HDMI output for viewing photos and videos on a compatible TV or monitor. The camera supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards for storage, providing ample space for storing high-resolution images and videos. Canon offers optional accessories such as the BG-E8 Battery Grip for extended shooting sessions and enhanced handling, as well as remote triggers and wireless file transfer solutions for versatile connectivity options.
Battery Life
The EOS 600D is powered by a rechargeable LP-E8 lithium-ion battery pack. Canon rates the battery life for approximately 440 shots per charge using the optical viewfinder under typical usage conditions. Users may opt to carry spare batteries or utilize external power sources for extended shooting sessions, especially during travel or professional assignments.
Software and Features
Canon includes a range of shooting modes and advanced features in the EOS 600D to cater to different photography styles and preferences. The camera offers Full Manual Control for precise exposure adjustments, as well as semi-automatic modes like aperture priority and shutter priority. Advanced features include Basic+ Creative Auto mode for intuitive settings adjustment, Multi-shot Noise Reduction for reducing noise in low-light conditions, and HDR Backlight Control for optimizing dynamic range in high-contrast scenes.
Usability and Handling
The EOS 600D is designed for ergonomic comfort and intuitive operation, featuring a robust body with a deep grip and well-placed controls. The camera’s streamlined interface and customizable buttons facilitate efficient workflow and quick access to essential settings, allowing photographers to focus on framing shots and capturing decisive moments without distractions. The Vari-angle LCD monitor enhances usability, enabling flexible shooting angles and precise composition, especially for shooting in challenging or unconventional positions.
Value for Money
The Canon EOS 600D offered excellent value for its price range when it was released, providing advanced features, superior image quality, and versatile lens compatibility in a user-friendly DSLR. It appealed to photography enthusiasts and beginners seeking a capable camera for learning and exploring creative photography. Despite being an older model, its APS-C sensor, Full HD video recording capabilities, and comprehensive feature set continue to resonate with users looking for a reliable and versatile DSLR for various photography genres.
Conclusion
The Canon EOS 600D is a versatile and capable DSLR camera that excels in image quality, performance, and usability. It combines a high-resolution sensor, advanced autofocus capabilities, versatile lens compatibility, and ergonomic design to deliver exceptional results in diverse shooting conditions. Whether used for portraits, landscapes, sports, or video recording, the EOS 600D remains a solid choice for users seeking versatility, reliability, and superior image quality in a compact and user-friendly DSLR.
This review provides a comprehensive overview of the Canon EOS 600D, highlighting its strengths in design, image quality, performance, features, usability, and overall value proposition.
4. Nikon D5100
We often see Canon and Nikon leapfrog over each other in terms of product release times and technology updates, but they finally confronted directly in the DSLR market this year. The Nikon D5100 series replaces the two-year-old D5000, which is now competing with the Canon EOS 600D. Upgraded to the D5000 series in most respects, the D5100 completes itself enough to make it into the lineup of DSLRs priced under $ 1,000.
Nikon D5100 16.2MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 3-Inch Vari-Angle LCD Monitor (Body Only): Buy it now
Design and Build Quality
The Nikon D5100, released in 2011, is a mid-range digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera designed for photography enthusiasts and beginners looking to step up from entry-level models. It features a classic DSLR design with dimensions of 128 x 97 x 79 mm and a weight of approximately 560 grams (body only). The camera body is constructed from high-quality polycarbonate materials, offering durability and a comfortable grip for extended shooting sessions.
Image Quality
The D5100 is equipped with a 16.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor and Nikon’s EXPEED 2 image processor. The DX-format sensor size allows for excellent light-gathering capabilities and delivers detailed images with accurate colors, low noise levels, and good dynamic range. The EXPEED 2 processor enhances image processing speed, reduces noise in high ISO settings, and enables fast performance, making the D5100 suitable for various photography genres, including portraits, landscapes, and low-light shooting.
Lens Compatibility and System Capabilities
One of the strengths of the D5100 is its compatibility with Nikon’s extensive lineup of F-mount lenses, offering versatility for different shooting scenarios. Nikon and third-party manufacturers provide a range of lenses from wide-angle to telephoto, including premium primes and zooms. The camera features an advanced 11-point autofocus (AF) system with a cross-type center point for enhanced accuracy and subject tracking. Nikon includes Vibration Reduction (VR) in select lenses to minimize the effects of camera shake, ensuring sharp images and stable video recording.
Performance
In terms of performance, the D5100 offers responsive operation and reliable autofocus capabilities. The camera utilizes Nikon’s 3D Tracking AF system for continuous autofocus tracking of moving subjects, making it suitable for sports photography and action scenes. The EXPEED 2 processor enables continuous shooting at up to 4 frames per second (fps), allowing users to capture a series of shots in quick succession and capture decisive moments effectively.
Video Recording
The D5100 supports Full HD 1080p video recording at 30 frames per second with stereo sound. Users can also record HD 720p videos at 30 frames per second for high-quality video capture. Nikon includes full-time autofocus during video recording, ensuring smooth focus transitions and subject tracking in real-time. The camera features manual exposure control and adjustable audio levels for videographers and filmmakers, providing flexibility in video production.
Viewfinder and LCD Display
For composing shots, the D5100 features a pentamirror optical viewfinder with approximately 95% frame coverage and 0.78x magnification. The optical viewfinder provides a clear and detailed view of the scene, with real-time exposure and white balance adjustments visible before capture. Additionally, the camera includes a 3.0-inch Vari-angle LCD monitor with approximately 921,000 dots. The Vari-angle design allows the LCD monitor to articulate and rotate, providing flexibility for shooting at high or low angles and capturing self-portraits or ground-level shots.
Controls and Customization
The D5100 is designed with both beginners and advanced users in mind, featuring a mode dial and intuitive controls for quick access to shooting modes and settings. The camera includes dedicated buttons for essential functions such as ISO sensitivity, white balance, and exposure compensation. Nikon incorporates Scene Modes and Picture Controls for adding creative effects to photos directly in-camera, enhancing creative expression and versatility in photo composition.
Connectivity and Storage
For connectivity, the D5100 includes a USB port for data transfer and remote control, as well as an HDMI output for viewing photos and videos on a compatible TV or monitor. The camera supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards for storage, providing ample space for storing high-resolution images and videos. Nikon offers optional accessories such as the MB-D17 Multi-Power Battery Pack for extended shooting sessions and enhanced handling, as well as remote triggers and wireless file transfer solutions for versatile connectivity options.
Battery Life
The D5100 is powered by a rechargeable EN-EL14 lithium-ion battery pack. Nikon rates the battery life for approximately 660 shots per charge using the optical viewfinder under typical usage conditions. Users may opt to carry spare batteries or utilize external power sources for extended shooting sessions, especially during travel or professional assignments.
Software and Features
Nikon includes a range of shooting modes and advanced features in the D5100 to cater to different photography styles and preferences. The camera offers Full Manual Control for precise exposure adjustments, as well as semi-automatic modes like aperture priority and shutter priority. Advanced features include Active D-Lighting for optimizing dynamic range, HDR (High Dynamic Range) mode for combining multiple exposures, and Night Vision mode for shooting in low-light conditions.
Usability and Handling
The D5100 is designed for ergonomic comfort and intuitive operation, featuring a robust body with a deep grip and well-placed controls. The camera’s streamlined interface and customizable buttons facilitate efficient workflow and quick access to essential settings, allowing photographers to focus on framing shots and capturing decisive moments without distractions. The Vari-angle LCD monitor enhances usability, enabling flexible shooting angles and precise composition, especially for shooting in challenging or unconventional positions.
Value for Money
The Nikon D5100 offered excellent value for its price range when it was released, providing advanced features, superior image quality, and versatile lens compatibility in a user-friendly DSLR. It appealed to photography enthusiasts and beginners seeking a capable camera for learning and exploring creative photography. Despite being an older model, its DX-format sensor, Full HD video recording capabilities, and comprehensive feature set continue to resonate with users looking for a reliable and versatile DSLR for various photography genres.
Conclusion
The Nikon D5100 is a versatile and capable DSLR camera that excels in image quality, performance, and usability. It combines a high-resolution sensor, advanced autofocus capabilities, versatile lens compatibility, and ergonomic design to deliver exceptional results in diverse shooting conditions. Whether used for portraits, landscapes, sports, or video recording, the D5100 remains a solid choice for users seeking versatility, reliability, and superior image quality in a compact and user-friendly DSLR.
This review provides a comprehensive overview of the Nikon D5100, highlighting its strengths in design, image quality, performance, features, usability, and overall value proposition.
5. Canon EOS 5D Mark III
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III finally came out in June 2012 – more than three years after the predecessor’s predecessor was announced. This weather-sealed weather-resistant camera is equipped with a 22.3-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and incorporates the latest Digic 5+ image processor. Owning the 61-point autofocus system, the new camera has an ISO sensitivity of 100 to 25,600 (extending from 50 to 102,400) and is equipped with dual memory (CF and SD) slots. It can record full-HD 1080p movies at 30, 25, and 24 fps, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III comes with many video enhancements such as turnaround time and silent control.
Canon EOS 5D Mark III 22.3 MP Full Frame CMOS with 1080p Full-HD Video Mode Digital SLR Camera (Body): Buy it now
Design and Build Quality
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III, released in 2012, is a professional-grade full-frame digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera designed for photographers seeking high-resolution imaging capabilities and robust performance in various shooting conditions. It features a durable magnesium alloy body with weather sealing, measuring 152 x 116.4 x 76.4 mm and weighing approximately 950 grams (body only). The camera’s ergonomic design includes a deep grip and intuitive button layout for comfortable handling during extended shooting sessions.
Image Quality
The 5D Mark III is equipped with a 22.3-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and Canon’s DIGIC 5+ image processor. The full-frame sensor size allows for exceptional light-gathering capabilities, delivering detailed images with low noise levels, accurate colors, and impressive dynamic range. The DIGIC 5+ processor enhances image processing speed, reduces noise in high ISO settings, and enables fast performance, making the 5D Mark III suitable for a wide range of photography genres, including portraits, landscapes, and low-light shooting.
Lens Compatibility and System Capabilities
One of the strengths of the 5D Mark III is its compatibility with Canon’s extensive lineup of EF lenses, offering versatility for professional photographers and enthusiasts. Canon and third-party manufacturers provide a range of lenses from wide-angle to telephoto, including premium primes and zooms. The camera features a sophisticated 61-point autofocus (AF) system with 41 cross-type points for enhanced accuracy and subject tracking, ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects and maintaining focus in challenging conditions. Canon includes Optical Image Stabilization (IS) in select lenses to minimize the effects of camera shake, ensuring sharp images and stable video recording.
Performance
In terms of performance, the 5D Mark III offers responsive operation and reliable autofocus capabilities. The camera utilizes Canon’s AI Servo AF system for continuous autofocus tracking of moving subjects, making it suitable for sports photography and action scenes. The DIGIC 5+ processor enables continuous shooting at up to 6 frames per second (fps), allowing users to capture a series of shots in quick succession and capture decisive moments effectively.
Video Recording
The 5D Mark III supports Full HD 1080p video recording at 30 frames per second with stereo sound. Users can also record HD 720p videos at 60 frames per second for smooth motion capture. Canon includes full manual exposure control and adjustable audio levels during video recording, providing flexibility for videographers and filmmakers. The camera features Movie Servo AF for continuous autofocus tracking during video recording, ensuring smooth focus transitions and subject tracking in real-time.
Viewfinder and LCD Display
For composing shots, the 5D Mark III features a pentaprism optical viewfinder with approximately 100% frame coverage and 0.71x magnification. The optical viewfinder provides a clear and detailed view of the scene, with real-time exposure and white balance adjustments visible before capture. Additionally, the camera includes a 3.2-inch Clear View II LCD monitor with approximately 1.04 million dots. The LCD monitor features an anti-reflective coating for improved visibility in bright conditions and supports Live View mode for accurate composition and focus checking.
Controls and Customization
The 5D Mark III is designed for professional photographers who require precise control over shooting parameters and customization options. The camera features dual control dials and dedicated buttons for essential functions such as ISO sensitivity, white balance, and exposure compensation. Canon incorporates Custom Controls and My Menu settings for personalized workflow preferences, allowing users to assign functions to buttons and dials for quick access during shooting. The camera includes Picture Styles and Creative Filters for adding artistic effects to photos directly in-camera, enhancing creative expression and versatility in photo composition.
Connectivity and Storage
For connectivity, the 5D Mark III includes a USB 3.0 port for high-speed data transfer, as well as an HDMI output for viewing photos and videos on a compatible TV or monitor. The camera supports CompactFlash (CF) and Secure Digital (SD) memory cards for storage, providing ample space for storing high-resolution images and videos. Canon offers optional accessories such as the WFT-E7A Wireless File Transmitter for wireless connectivity and remote shooting, as well as battery grips and external flash units for enhanced functionality.
Battery Life
The 5D Mark III is powered by a rechargeable LP-E6 lithium-ion battery pack. Canon rates the battery life for approximately 950 shots per charge using the optical viewfinder under typical usage conditions. Users may opt to carry spare batteries or utilize the optional BG-E11 Battery Grip for extended shooting sessions and enhanced handling, especially during professional assignments or travel.
Software and Features
Canon includes a range of advanced features and shooting modes in the 5D Mark III to cater to diverse photography styles and preferences. The camera offers Full Manual Control for precise exposure adjustments, as well as semi-automatic modes like aperture priority and shutter priority. Advanced features include High Dynamic Range (HDR) mode for combining multiple exposures, Multiple Exposure mode for creative double exposures, and Dual Pixel RAW for fine-tuning focus and bokeh effects post-capture.
Usability and Handling
The 5D Mark III is designed for ergonomic comfort and intuitive operation, featuring a robust body with weather sealing and a comfortable grip. The camera’s dual card slot design allows for simultaneous recording to CF and SD memory cards, providing backup and overflow options for data storage. The camera’s intuitive interface and customizable controls facilitate efficient workflow and quick access to essential settings, allowing photographers to focus on framing shots and capturing decisive moments without distractions.
Value for Money
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III continues to offer exceptional value for professional photographers and enthusiasts seeking superior image quality, robust performance, and versatile shooting capabilities in a full-frame DSLR. Despite being an older model, its full-frame sensor, advanced autofocus system, and comprehensive feature set make it a preferred choice for professionals engaged in commercial, portrait, wedding, and landscape photography. The 5D Mark III’s durability, reliability, and excellent image quality justify its investment for users requiring a dependable camera system for demanding photographic assignments.
Conclusion
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III is a flagship full-frame DSLR camera that excels in image quality, performance, and usability. It combines a high-resolution sensor, advanced autofocus capabilities, versatile lens compatibility, and ergonomic design to deliver exceptional results in various shooting conditions. Whether used for studio work, event coverage, or outdoor photography, the 5D Mark III remains a top choice for photographers seeking reliability, versatility, and superior image quality in a professional-grade DSLR.
This review provides a comprehensive overview of the Canon EOS 5D Mark III, highlighting its strengths in design, image quality, performance, features, usability, and overall value proposition.