Best Mirrorless Cameras for Travellers
Mirrorless cameras are increasingly becoming the go-to option for numerous amateur and professional photographers, and it’s easy to see why.
Mirrorless cameras give photographers significant flexibility and quality in a lighter and smaller package. These types of cameras are often at par with the traditional DSLR camera and are capable of exceeding some DLSRs in terms of performance while still having a lighter and more compact body.
The differences between a mirrorless camera and the conventional DSLR are well-documented. Mirrorless cameras make great travel cameras given their advantageous size and portability.
If you’re someone looking for a mirrorless camera for travel photography, below are some of the best options for different skill levels.
What to Look for in a Mirrorless Travel Camera
Before getting any camera, it is essential that you know what your preference or style is as well as being aware of what components make up a good mirrorless camera.
It is worth noting that the components listed below are also the same components that factored into selecting the best mirrorless cameras available for travel.
1. Sensor Size
A camera’s sensor size plays a significant role in its performance. A larger sensor size means better image quality in low-light conditions as well as a greater depth of field. Mirrorless cameras have three main sensor sizes, namely the Micro Four Thirds, APS-c, and full frame.
2. Body Size & Weight
The size and weight of a camera are important things to consider for travel photography as it requires one to be as mobile as possible and be comfortable with carrying a camera for extended periods. Mirrorless cameras weight between 8 to 24 ounces depending on models.
3. Lens Compatibility
Lens compatibility and availability are also key factors to consider when looking for a mirrorless camera. Since mirrorless cameras are still relatively new to the photography landscape, the choices for lenses for them are limited and can be brand-specific.
4. Durability
Durability is perhaps one of the most important factors to consider when getting a camera for travel photography. You and your camera will always be exposed to the elements, be it the sun, rain or snow. Choose a camera that is weather and dust-sealed for it to withstand the elements while still being able to shoot beautiful images.
Related: 7 tips to shoot and edit double exposure photography
Best Mirrorless Cameras for Travellers
Every photographer has a different skill level and specialty.
There are amateur and professional photographers with varying experiences in the field while there are those who have budget concerns when investing in a camera.
Mirrorless cameras have models that are suitable for specific needs and skill levels.
Beginner Level Mirrorless Cameras
- Sony A6000
The Sony A6000 is the perfect entry-level mirrorless camera for photography enthusiasts who are just starting but are not yet prepared to invest in an expensive camera. The camera has been so well received up until now that, despite having already released two successors, Sony still keeps the 2014 A6000 camera available for purchase today.
This mirrorless model carries an APS-C sized sensor similar to most DLSRs, renowned ultra-fast autofocus, diverse Sony lens compatibility, an electronic viewfinder, and is WiFi-ready. Its body is only half the size and weight of the typical DSLR. For under $600, this model may also be bundled with a 16-50 mm kit lens.
- Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III
With this mirrorless Olympus camera model, entry-level users are given the luxury and assistance of one of the best body image stabilization systems available in the market. The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III supports 4K video, a tilting touchscreen interface, as well as being compatible with a large number of microlenses. This model is sold at around $600, weighs in at about 14.46 oz and includes a 14-42 mm lens.
Intermediate Level Mirrorless Cameras
- Panasonic Lumix G9
The Panasonic Lumix G9 is an ideal choice for both photography and videography and is considered a jack of all trades, a distinction that few mirrorless cameras receive. The G9 supports 4K video and has a fully articulating LED screen. Its body is also weather resistant and is sold at around $1100.
- Sony Alpha A7II
The Sony Alpha A7II is another consistent and popular mirrorless camera. It sports a 5-axis body image stabilization, a full frame sensor, and a weather sealed body. The A7II can render exceptional images even when shooting under low-light conditions. Its body sells at $1,100 while bundling it with a 28-70mm lens makes prices it at $1500.
Advanced Level Mirrorless Cameras
- Sony Alpha A7III
The A7III is a strict upgrade to the A7II and sports most of the features of its predecessor as well as improved battery life and burst shooting that is twice as fast as the original. This Sony model sells for $2,000 and $2,200 for body and lens inclusion packages respectively.
- Sony A9
Sony has been a trailblazer when it comes to full frame mirrorless cameras, and it’s no surprise why they’re featured so heavily in this list and a lot of others. The Sony A9 features a full frame sensor with a high-speed 20 FPS burst shot along with an equally quick autofocus. This makes the A9 ideal both travel and sports photography.
In Conclusion
No matter what mirrorless camera you decide to buy, it is always recommended to learn the basics of photography first.
To do so, we recommend you to join a photography classes near you and learn from experts.
This way, you will not only learn the basics but can also progress towards understanding the advanced techniques of photography using mirrorless cameras.
Author Bio:
Shane Haumpton is a contributing writer for several websites and blogs. She has written on a variety of topics, ranging from lifestyle, photography, travel, and arts and crafts to gadgets, social media, and internet safety. This self-confessed coffee addict and shutterbug manages to do all these while enjoying life as a nomad.
