DSLR to Mirrorless and back to a DSLR

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Sorry for the late replies but I’m currently in Snowdonia with Dave Griff and won’t be home until the morning. We had a fantastic hike today and considering the weather has been so poor, the conditions today were great. Strong winds but no rain. Thanks to everyone who’s taken the time to like and comment. Have a great weekend everyone 🍺

[@poocky100]

I love my Nikon d800 dslr. It’s fabulous

[@daveadams547]

Hi Darren, I think your thoughts are really on the nail. Different camera systems have pro’s and con’s. really only two things matter. 1:The end image when printed, it’s almost impossible to tell which camera was used. All cameras are so good now there is very little difference in the quality of a well taken picture. And 2: what is the most important is how it feels in the hand, and it’s usability. Most photographers don’t care about all the toys and gimmicks it’s all about how comfortable it is. Wether modest or expensive, older system or brand new, great images and fun experiences can be had at every level. I’ve always been amazed at the images taken by cameras over ten years old. Get out and enjoy your camera, that’s what counts.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

I couldn’t agree more Dave. You’ve summed it up perfectly 👍

[@oneeyedphotographer]

@@DarrenKnightPhoto I think your problem is more to do with changing brand than changing to mirrorless.

[@christian.irmler]

Interesting thoughts. But in the end of the day I think: The decision between DLSR and DSLM never can't matter as much as the love, the passion about enjoying nature, building up a composition does - for the photo finally ;)

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Christian Irmler - Landscape Photography Vlog Absolutely 👍

[@YDM.]

I was a mirrorless user for the last three years and I liked a lot some of the features it provides. Ergonomics was the real issue. My new dslr combines features of both systems and I really enjoy it.

[@sl2608]

What new dslr did you get? Still liking it?

[@zuperblue1]

I gave a thumbs up just for your intro, man after my own heart, functionality is the most important

[@hyphenphotography]

Hi buddy. I remember a short KZbin comments exchange with you after you decided to move to Sony. As a long time, current 5DIII owner, I was saying it would be interesting to see how you got on with the Sony. Your arguments and counter arguments are well thought out and reasoned, so fair play to you in coming to your final conclusions. All I would say at the end is, never regret the things you do, only regret the things you don't do. You will, I'm sure, continue to produce some fantastic images and you would have done so with either a Canon or a Sony in your hand (or more properly, on your tripod). Cheers, Nigel

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Hi Nigel, Switching brands and systems are always a challenge and you never know if you’ve made the right call until you do. There’s so much I love about the Sony and equally there’s a lot I like about the Canon DSLR. Perhaps I’ll take a closer look at the R5 when it comes out as that may be the perfect combination Have a good week mate 👍

[@SniperPhotography]

I have owned the Canon 5d mkiii since new.I also own the Canon 5d mkiv and I still think that the 5d mkiii is better. I will never change. Thank you for your video.

[@AndrewTurpin]

Interesting video, Darren. I’ve got mirrorless and mirror-based cameras, but one thing I really miss when using the dslr is the ability to record and view video through the viewfinder. Particularly great for wildlife.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

I think that would be the thing I’d miss the most Andrew. I love the info in the EVF, but I still prefer the view of a DSLR view finder. My EVF is not as sharp as my DSLR viewfinder (for obvious reasons) 😉 Take care matey 👍

[@AndrewTurpin]

Darren Knight Photo I was actually surprised by how little I missed the DSLR viewfinder when I began using a mirrorless, but it’s always a case of WOW when I then switch to the DSLR. It’s so very, very clear. Although I do love zooming in to check focus through the viewfinder when using mirrorless. Brilliant, particularly - as I think you said in the video - on bright days.

[@antonydavid2953]

I moved from 5D/4 to Olympus EM1/2. Changed my life! No more tripods, pro capture transforms wildlife photography, pro lenses are stunning. Weather sealing is legendary. Electronic Sensor cleaning works amazingly. Body and 3 lenses weighs under 5 kg, making all day hiking substantially more enjoyable. 10 year old iMac has never crashed in PS or LR. Printing images 1,5 m wide with amazing detail. I wouldn't consider going back to dslr or full frame.

[@semperfi-1918]

Great points. Each to their own. I got a free pentax 35mm camera and the brand stuck to me. Picked up my first dslr pentax k-50 and the 80's f series glass. Love the contrast and color.

[@chesterjohnson4504]

I am in the same boat. I used Nikon DSLR's for years. Went to a Canon R5. Yes, buyers remorse to say the least. I was so comfortable with my DSLRS. At 71 I could sell the ML and go back to fulltime DSLR but it would be costly. Thankfully I have some good Nikon bodies and lenses that I kept.

[@richardgoldsmith.photograp4335]

Hi Darren great question you put to your self often thought about going to mirrorless camera but have finally made my mind up and sticking to my old 5d mark2 and 5d mark3 👌

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

If you’re comfortable with a DSLR Richard, then stick with it bud. They are great cameras and moreover extremely well built. Take care matey 🍺

[@jeffogden6060]

I enjoyed this one Darren. Like you, I once considered switching to Sony from Canon. I like the advantages of the EVF on a mirrorless system but I didn’t fancy getting a new body and new glass. In the end I bought a second hand Olympus M43 and while it’s a brilliant camera, I find myself using the FF Canon most of the time. The Canon menu system is so easy and intuitive to me and I really don’t need a lot of advanced settings. I can operate that Canon in the dark. I know that a new/different camera is not what holds my photography back-I need to continue shooting in order to improve. Cheers mate 👍

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Hi Jeff, When I first bought the 5D I was still heavily into Astro and so I used to use the DSLR at night. like you, I could operate the canon in the dark with ease. I’m starting to feel I’m really knocking the Sony (which I’m not, it’s a great camera), but I think I’m personally more suited to a canon or DSLR for my style of photography. I hope you had fun in the lakes mate 👍

[@willnotbetracked8222]

Such a shame you missed out on the 5D4. I have had all versions of 5D and the 4 was a big improvement on the 3 in terms of image quality, megapixels, dynamic range and ISO performance. I'm pretty sure that if you had gone the 5D4 route you would have done the same as me and stuck with Canon.😀

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Morning Willnot, Hopefully I’ll win the lottery this week and I’ll be able to buy the new Canon EOS r5 and the lens to suit. It sounds like the perfect mirrorless / DSLR (feel) combo 😂😂

[@HambletonRanger]

Thanks for your soul searching. I went from the 5D Mk II to the IV which was an epic choice. As you say for landscape weather sealing is all.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Hi Mike, In terms of weather sealing I’ve personally never had a problem with the Sony, but I’m a lot more cautious with it then I was with the canon. I just really trusted that camera and loved how it felt in my hand. Plus I didn’t need a PHD to understand the menu 😉 Have a great week bud 👍

[@JonGibbsPhotography]

I actually watched a gear based vlog!!! Good points bud and a good watch for those who are thinking of changing in terms of pros and cons.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Cheers Jon, Perhaps I am the new Tony and Chelsea 🤔 😂😂😂

[@JonGibbsPhotography]

Darren Knight Photo 😳

[@StevenMusgrovePhotography]

I had a similar quandary, wanted to upgrade but wasn't sure if i should go DSLR or Mirrorless but in the end i thought it best to future proof myself and went mirrorless. haven't regretted the decision. I did contemplate going sony but i would have had to sell all the canon glass i had and that probably would have only covered one g master lens. in the end i went for the eos r.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Hi Steven, I’m pleased that your pleased with the decision. It’s always a big risk to come out of our comfort zones and try something new and so kudos to you bud 👍

[@bradmiller9993]

Interesting. I went from Canon DSLR (5D) to Sony A7r and now I've just bought a Nikon D810 mostly because of the huge selections of lenses available in F mount. I'm keeping the Sony for now, but I wanted also to re-experience framing and composition with an optical viewfinder as well. Bonus: I can adapt my F mount lenses to the Sony ! DSLR's have dropped in price pretty significantly since the advent of mirrorless, which helps. Cheers!

[@Ezrabastian]

EF mount

[@bradmiller9993]

Sure. That too.@@Ezrabastian

[@CymruRJW]

Hi Darren Love your attitude and enjoyment of landscape. I use a completely different system to either of the ones you use, and it is what feels right fo me. That is the conclusion that you have come to. Keep doing the videos, I really enjoy them, especially in my locale of Noth Wales. Ron

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Hi Ron, I hope you’re well. I totally agree with you. It really doesn’t matter what camera you shoot with, as long as the user has confidence in it and enjoys using it. I was back in Snowdonia last weekend and man I feel better for it. I just love North Wales and could easily live there. Take care mate 👋

[@ChristianLawrence]

Eos r is a lovely camera. Lovely ergonomics and a shutter over the sensor. Never been a fan of Sony's personally. Eos r5 will be 😍😍

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Morning Christian, It’s only since I’ve released this video have I learnt about the shutter on the EOS R. Very nice feature. I’m looking forward to the release of the R5

[@ChristianLawrence]

@@DarrenKnightPhotoHi Darren, yes I would wait for the r5 if you can afford it. Should be a great camera. The R is excellent, but the r5 will be a game changer I reckon. R just lacks fps, cropped 4k and the silly scroll bar. All due to be changed. 🙂 rf glass is also 😍😍😍

[@Westmoreland348]

If you did consider returning to Canon I’d like to give a shoutout for the much under rated 5DSR. It has huge resolution and beautiful colour rendition

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Thanks for the heads up Simon. I think I’ll wait and see what the R5 feels like in the hand and if it’s not what I’m expecting, I’ll stick with the Sony. Have a great week mate 👍

[@Westmoreland348]

Thank you Darren, the Sony is a great camera as well well and I was quite tempted by the new a7lv. Keep up the great work your videos are always inspirational

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Thanks Simon, Very kind 👍

[@johnchallis1039]

Nice vlog Darren in your usual down to earth, relaxed manner. I got the impression at the end that the result was a score draw and that you'll be looking for a replay on a date to be decided 😉

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

on the replay John I’ll probably end up with a Nikon 😂😂

[@robingrant8082]

Hi Darren. I have just re-watched this for the first time since you released it and I was wondering if your opinion has changed, having now been 3 years since you switched? Maybe one to discuss on the pubcast. Anyway keep safe. Kind regards - Robin (Feb 2023)

[@heathernewman7930]

That was really interesting you gave a lot of practical information in a very logical and straightforward manner. I hope you have a great weekend 📸☕

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Morning Heather, Thanks for the kind comment and yes I had a lovely weekend thank you. I was in Snowdonia (my happy place). I hope you had a great weekend also 👋👋

[@matssandquist9258]

Interesting thoughts. I'm still using DSLR but have thinking of buying mirrorless.

[@garystone6583]

Nice insight to your way of thinking Darren. I for one but I wouldn't change my 5d mark iv as I simply love it

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Good for you Gary, it’s a fantastic camera 👍 Take care bud 🍺

[@skywatcher250px]

Great insight between mirror less and mirrored cameras the menu on the Canon is way more easier to navigate then the Sony.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Ain’t that the truth Dave. I hope you’re well mate. Love to the family x

[@mstphoto99]

I shot Canon for 30 years and jumped ship to Sony a few years ago and never looked back. Recently swapped my a7rii for the a7iii with a Smallrig L Bracket fitted. Lovely to hold!! Still have a soft spot for Canon all the same but I'd never consider moving back.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Morning mstphoto99 That’s really good to know. What made you switch from the A7Riii to the A7iii?

[@mstphoto99]

@@DarrenKnightPhoto It was the a7rMk2 that I previously owned. I find the 3rd generation Sonys have better colour, AF, Battery Life, and the joystick is a welcomed addition. The Small Rig L Bracket has to be the best accessory I have purchased so far. I'm mainly a sea/landscape photographer so found that the 42mp was a bit of an overkill, 24mp is ideal. The 42mp files of the a7rii slowed down my computer and filled the hard drive quickly. Not really that big deal though. I'll probably miss the extra pixels for cropping when the seabird season kicks off in a couple of months. Cheers Mike

[@RobOutenPhotography]

Interesting to hear your point of view Darren, thanks for sharing, 👍📸

[@quazisanjeed6395]

Actually, this video left me wondering what you are favoring! For me, I'll stick to DSLRs so long as they are around. Have checked the benefits of MILCs and am convinced. However, those are not strong enough to inspire a switch. I stay with my love.

[@GunnarDresler]

Can’t really say that I would have necessarily changed in the Nikon system wasn’t it for the massive video upgrade that Nikon did. Photo wise the camera can’t do muuuuuch more besides better performance in the dark. I understand the issue with changing lenses without a protecting mirror, that is indeed some potential problem. On the other hand the Z6 is just so much lighter with its phenomenal kit lens, feels great in the hands and just filming animals through the viewfinder is also a great feature. Man Darren, I loved your star photography, really impressive!

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Morning Gunnar, There you have it Gunnar, you changed systems for the correct reasons. Your new camera gave you additional features that your old camera didn’t have. Your switch was totally valid and you obviously mage the right call. Thanks for the kind words matey 👍

[@Viator19]

Im new to the channel. I love it, Its great so well done Darren. Im a Canon shooter (clue is in my username) and I use the 5D mkiii and wouldn't change it. I am though considering a fuji XT30 mirrorless purely as an addition for travel / street shooting but not as a replacement. That is only because its a small system that is inconspicuous, whereas a big chunky DSLR on the streets can cause issues. Thats the only reason to my mind to have a mirrorless. The 5D is firmly here to stay for my landscape and portrait work though.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Hi Canonista And thank you for the kind comment. As I said I’m really not a tech or camera obsessive person and so I really don’t know much about all of the different camera out there, but I’ve heard great things about Fuji and I’m sure you’ll love it for what you have in mind. You’re also extremely wise for keeping the Canon. I’m very envious 👍 Have a great week bud

[@sl2608]

Viator: Considered an SL2? Fantastic powerhouse of a camera in a small size. Love mine.

[@ianaustin3942]

Interesting vlog Darren - I agree with you regarding the 'feel' of a camera as, when I first started photography, I'd done all of the research and decided to buy a Nikon - that was until I got to the shop and tried one out - it just didn't sit right in my hand! Thanks for the info regarding DSLR and mirrorless as I've been thinking of swapping but will hang on to my Canon 5D MKIV for a bit longer - cheers mate.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Morning Ian, Thanks for the kind comment. I hope people don’t get me wrong as the Sony is a great camera but the Canon just felt right for me. I think if a camera feels right for the user than there really has to be a good reason to switch. I possibly switched to early I hope you had a great weekend matey 🍺

[@rambling_rambler]

I bought the 5D Mark IV when I came out and am really happy with it. Would I switch to mirrorless? Yes I'm liking the sound of the Canon R5 and Canon have a blanket that pops over the sensor when you take the lens off. Might wait for a price drop on that and a cashback offer

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Morning Garry, Yes the R5 does sound appealing and like you I’m keeping my eye on that one. If it operates like a mirrorless but feels like a DSLR, I could be very tempted. 😬 Take care matey 👋

[@kevinfordham4455]

Hi Darren, What a timely vlog, I have been thinking about upgrading my 5D3 for a while, I might have already done so with the Canon R, but then the announcement of the R5 was made and I have put things on hold. I don’t want to get rid of my L Series lenses as I still think it is great glass and supposedly performance with the older glass is good. Now if they were to bring out a lens with automatic image composition I would be in like a shot, wish I had you eye for an image. Like you were and I still am, I am into Astrophotography and have thought about getting rid, but still persevere with it despite light and weather issues. My upgrade is on hold, but I do think I will stick with Canon as I am sure that the new offering will be significant enough to warrant the change where at the moment I don’t believe the Canon R is. Keep up the great vids and who knows might bump into you as I live just outside Cambridge as well.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Hi Kevin, I loved my Astro photography, but I just got so frustrated with the amount of images I was producing a year. On a good year I would only get 6-8 decent images as I needed to collect at least 15-20 hours of data for each image. With regards to your DSLR, if you’re happy and comfortable with it than my advice would be to keep it. As I said, the Sony is a great camera, but the 5D just felt better for my style of shooting. Hopefully are paths will cross one day as I’m always in town or at the beach. Feel free to email me if I can help you out with anything 🍺

[@kevinfordham4455]

@@DarrenKnightPhoto I agree about the Astrophotography, I have a permanent setup but this winter i only have data for 3 or 4 targets. Most of that is Ha. Every time the skies clears the moon is full and my target is near the light over spill. The joys of one of the most expensive hobbies I have ever had. I will be waiting for the R5 with baited breath and if it is not the beast that everyone is expecting my cash will stay in the bank. Kevin

[@JamesRBurnsVLOG]

Im saying absolutely nothing. Ps The EOS R has a curtain that comes down when changing the lens and protecting the sensor. It is a Canon after all though 😙😙😙

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

blah blah blah blah. Shut up James We had a lovely walk up the Rhyd Ddu path up to Snowdon on Saturday, you’d have liked this one 👍

[@russellmann8297]

I shot Canon for about 15 years 20D 50D, 5DII. I got arthritis real bad in my shoulders and sold all my Canon Equipment and switched to Sony. I had three Sony cameras and hated the menus and the colors . I then switched to Fujifilm system. My backpack with all the lenses is about 18 pounds. I love my Fujifilm and get some great shots with it however it is my belief that the Canon was the best Camera’s that I ever owned. I like the colors better and the Canon pictures didn’t require much editing at all. I keeper rate was much higher with the Canon. I believe the Canons had a better focus system was better than the Fujifilm however I will say the Sony has the best focus system of any camera I have ever shot with. I agree it’s to expensive to charge everything back and I am invested in the Fujifilm system now so I want be changing. Thanks for sharing your experience and thoughts.

[@ThePosiview]

Decent overview of your thinking. I moved from D750 to OMD 2 years ago and I’ll not be going back 👍🏻

[@JamesRBurnsVLOG]

andy sheader Yeah but that’s a Nikon so doesn’t count🤭

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

I’m pleased to hear you’re happy with your choice andy. If your happy with your camera, you’re happy photographer 👊 Take care matey

[@JamesRBurnsVLOG]

Darren Knight Photo A big fan of OMD. Joan of Arc being my favourite. I really must get my coat now

[@vusisemwayo]

Just bought a Sony A7 II off ebay. Switching from a Nikon D610. Biggest reason for switching for me was the auto focus tech in the Sony. I shoot people mostly and unless I got them to stand still I would miss focus often, especially shooting wide open. Found myself worrying more about not missing focus than composition.... At that point I figured it was time to try something else. I am a hobbyist by the way.

[@colinw6749]

Very interesting insight based on your recent experiences. I’m not going mirrorless - yet. I use Nikon which is irrelevant to this topic really. Thanks.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

If it ain’t broke Colin, then why fix it is the moto. I’m pleased you found it interesting and hopefully helpful. Have a good week matey 👍

[@deanjelcic9299]

You are sooo right when you say about those Tony and Chelsea type of people... They are so loaded and have the cash to play with latest tech. And of course they are biggest corp marketing puppies... Alaways remember that fact...

[@michaelberg507]

Darren, interesting thought process. Just a point: the mirror in the DSLR does not protect the sensor - it just hangs there at a 45degree angle in the middle of the camera. It is the focal plane shutter that protects the sensor directly. Now a question that stems from total lack of experience with mirrorlesss systems: when you remove the lens from your Sony, is it actually the sensor your seeing or a shutter/protective curtain? (My uneducated assumption is that there would have to be some level of protection that would move aside either when the lens is mounted or the camera is turned on.) I know that when I clean my DLSR sensors I have to set the camera up so that the mirror swings up out of the way and the shutter remains open until I turn the camera off. Cheers!

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Hi Michael, No, on my mirrorless camera it’s actually the sensor you see. There’s no protective curtain (not on the a7r3 anyway). I appreciate the mirror is not a protective component (my words not yours) but it does offer a level of protection. I have far more dust spots on my Sony sensor than I ever had on my DSLR. Interesting points though mate and thanks for commenting 👍

[@JPLamoureuxsTravels]

Brilliant vlog buddy, I have always used canon DSLR's from film to digital, in jungles, deserts and arctic conditions and they are workhorses and as you say i have every confidence with them, the R5 is tempting but the sensor in adverse conditions and climates, im so on the fence lol 😂 ... JP

[@erikfarkas7868]

Mirorless seems to make more sense with an APS-C or MFT sensor, rather than full frame, if you want to save weight and space.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Hi Erik, At the moment weight is not an issue to me as I can still carry a heavy pack up the mountains, but in 10 years time a MFT maybe very appealing indeed 👍

[@JohnHPettigrewFujishooter67]

Hey Darren, thanks for sharing, I switched from a Nikon D90 to Fujifilm XT30 and almost everything you said I can relate to, first time out with the Fuji I got water drops on the sensor,but I love the Fuji and would not go back, but if Nikon would have brought ot the Z5 earlier then I might have gone for that. One thing that has improved the handeling of the small Fuji was an grip/ L bracket from Smallrig it is amazing and gives the Fuji the same feel as the Nikon, not sure if they make one for Sony but worth checking.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Morning John, I’ve bought a grip from small rig for the Sony and it does feel better, but still not as comfortable as my 5D. As I’ve said in previous replies, I feel that I’m bashing the Sony and I’m not, it’s a great camera, but it just doesn’t feel right in my hand. Plus I’m nervous about the weather sealing, which is not a good thing for a landscape photographer to be worrying about. Take care matey 👍

[@JohnHPettigrewFujishooter67]

@@DarrenKnightPhoto I know the feeling, my little Fuji is not weather sealed, and I just dont trust it in bad weather, always have the freezer bags handy, but my old Nikon took a beating and kept going, To be fair I have not had a problem yet time will tell.

[@markjagger7139]

I used to have the 80D and loved it, I found quite a bit of noise at high iso. I’ve resonantly changed to the EOS R which is mirror less and is fantastic, with the adapter you can also use your EOS lenses on it, you can also use any EOS-S lenses on it also as you can use just the center of the chip just like a crop sensor 80D. There is also the new canon EOS R5 due out in the next few months witch is mirror less ( not sure on the price ) it maybe worth considering if you were to be thinking of changing

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Morning Mark, I’ve been hearing a lot about Canons new release and that does seem to tick all of my boxes. However, I’ll wait for the price to be released and see what I can get for my Sony equipment. Although I think it maybe out of my price range 😞 Have a great week mate 🍺

[@markjagger7139]

Darren Knight Photo no I don’t think it’s going to be cheep, I’m sure I saw a price of around £5,500 but I could be wrong. Have a good week your self

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Mark Jagger really!!! Damn, I thought it was around $4,500 or £4K £5.5k plus glass would be far to much for me to switch back

[@markjagger7139]

Darren Knight Photo we will have to wait and see, not that I’m looking. The canon R has all I need , I don’t need more things to have to worry about or never use 😂

[@robertlavers1121]

Moral of the story is optical companies make a better job of designing cameras than electronics ones because their approaches are different. Optical companies understand the ergonomics, Sony treats photography just like another consumer market and go for features that on paper look better by comparison and aggressively promote them. When you buy a TV isn’t that what you do? They make the best sensors but companies like Pentax with a Sony sensor get far more out of them so the best of both worlds. I tried a Panasonic full frame with a largish lens and the ergonomics were dreadful, there was such an imbalance I couldn’t hold the camera up with one hand it just rotated downwards; ok I know you use your other hand for support but not to take most of the weight, which means turning the zoom or manually focusing becomes quite awkward. Like I said, poor ergonomics.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Nicely worded Robert 👍

[@iainmc9859]

This was really well thought out. I suppose as much as anything we get comfortable with what we're used to. I've got a better DSLR in the cupboard than the one I continually use but I'm too lazy to re-wire my brain to adjust to new dials and buttons. There is no perfect camera, its always a trade off. I'm on the borderline of swopping to mirrorless and for me the decisive factor will simply be what can I use more lenses with. I shoot more film now than I have in twenty years and I can get converters for all my analog lenses to fit a mirrorless (you can't with DSLR's because of the focal distance). However, does this mean I junk my Sony DSLR system....probably not, it'll just collect dust until I get bored of playing with a dozen plus different vintage glass lenses on a mirrorless. I'm a restless creature of habit with a short attention span and a low boredom threshold ;-)

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Morning Iain, There’s nothing wrong with being comfortable though. I still have to look at the back of the Sony to look at the buttons and dials. Where as my fingers moved over the back of the canon with ease. If it’s not broke then why fix it is the staying. Mine wasn’t broke yet I still ignored that piece of sound advice. Have a great week mate 🍺

[@martinamery6147]

Hi Darren, useful information in the video, I have been looking at upgrading to a full frame mirrorless camera and have been thinking about Sony or the Canon R systems.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

They’re both great cameras martin and so just choose the one that suits you and your needs and ignore other people’s views and opinions.............but that’s just my opinion 😉

[@jimwlouavl]

Thanks for this helpful video. I think mirrorless has some advantages for my landscape and portrait work. I just still like the feel of a full frame DSLR. I have a stable of Nikon lenses but the R5 is a great camera.

[@lion925]

Thank you for your insight - I just subscribed! I’m also pretty impressed with the audio quality in this video on such a windy day. What microphone setup did you use?

[@tompetersphotography]

Interesting view mate👍🏻 I’m really going to go nitro because I’m spending allot of money to invest in a system so I’m future proofing my invest aswell. But I agree the weather sealing on the Sony and the smaller body doesn’t feel very ergonomic for me neither. I’m going to go z7 or s1r I think I like the bigger body and feel.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Hi Tom, As many people say “there’s not really a bad camera out there these days” and so go with the camera that suits you and your needs. I should have listened to my gut rather than the reviews and pundits Take care mate and I’ll see you at the show 👍

[@tompetersphotography]

Darren Knight Photo your right matey, not long now👍🏻

[@ungavaproductions]

Agree 100% with you. Personaly I have no interest about mirrorless camera. For a full of reason. So I'm and will stay A DSLR shooter

[@ianhathaway2843]

Try adding a "pinky grip" or keep an L bracket on. I use either and it makes a significant difference

[@quazisanjeed6395]

For action speed or photography; DSLR has a clear edge. We see the view through OVF in real-time which arrives at the speed of light. As a result, I can capture the split second moment by pressing the shutter instantly. On the other hand, the view arrives little later on the EVF after being processed from light signals received on the sensor. It's very fast these days on modern mirrorless cameras but does NOT equal the speed of light. Therefore, when the shooter captures a certain action moment with the help of EVF; actually he is behind in capturing that decisive moment. Bottomline is, MILC can never beat DSLR in capturing action.

[@gryphongryph]

If you want weather robustness, then you should have gotten the Pentax K1

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

gryphongryph I never even considered the Pentax. There’s so many great cameras out there it hurts my old brain 😞

[@adrianalfordphotography]

Another great video Darren. Completely understand your reasoning for your choice. I've been hanging off mirrorless for the pure fact all my needs are met with both my DSLR's no problem. Kind of like trading in one perfectly operational car for another. Thanks for the video mate, cheers.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Morning Adrian, I like your common sense approach. If it ain’t broke than why fix it? I’m pleased at least one of us has that approach 😉 Have a great week mate 🍺

[@RobJorg]

I love my Sony A1 but i miss my Nikon D850. Sony is a dustmagnet on the sensor, its a nice piece of kit but in a storm or heavy weather i would pick my D850. i did sell my D850 which was a mistake. good thing about mirrorless is that you can see what you get.

[@steviebye1]

Hi Darren, Great vlog again and super timely for me to find this one today. I am fairly new to photography, about a year. I have been thinking about this subject for the past month as I would like a second camera, I have an 80D and a Sigma 150-600 for wild life and a Sigma 150 f2.8 macro . So my thoughts have been, Mirrorless, and lenses? or a full frame canon 5D mk4 and the 100-400F4.5 L which would also fit the 80D. I think you have answered this difficult question for me, but I would like to know your thoughts.

[@beeldbarista]

Use the camera you love most. I went Nikon Z because it works for me better as a Sony and because of its build quality Is way better. Sony is much overrated for what it is. But that’s my opininion. In your case I would wait for the upcoming R5. Canon already basically said they will not invest any further in the DSLR so imho that would in the end be wasted money. The new R5 has much the same body design as your old 5D. However whatever you do take what works for you. In the end glass is most important. Lenses stay with you for many years but cameras come and go.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Morning Greg, I’ll keep my eye on the R5 as it does sound very appealing. If I can get a mirrorless camera, with good weather sealing in a DSLR body, I may just have found perfect camera for me. Have a good week bud 👍

[@beeldbarista]

@@DarrenKnightPhoto I think it would be the perfect camera for most Canon shooters (and those that have kept hold of their lenses and now shoot Sony ;)) - That's a joke that you don't need to take litterally.

[@brianlaunchbury4491]

The obvious solution to the conundrum is micro four thirds. 😃

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Morning Brian, I’ve never considered buying a micro four thirds although I know people who have them and love them.

[@langdons2848]

I shoot with both a full frame DSLR and an M43 and I agree. I love my Canon 1DXii and lenses, but I really like the small body, small lenses, and technology of my Lumix G9. People who dismiss Micro Four Thirds out of hand are missing out.

[@malcolmfowler2891]

Interesting vid, plenty of food for thought

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Thanks malcolm, I’m pleased you got something out of it. What that is I don’t know, as I’m as confused today as I was when I made the video 😉

[@sammysatsangi7754]

Lovely video. enjoyed it. thanks.

[@LeePelling]

Nice to hear your thoughts as i been thinking about that exact situation, as the release of the Canon Eos R5 is imminent and i currently use the 5d mk iii , which has no issues and i am very happy with it . However is it time to upgrade while i can still get a fair price for my dslr and move to or upgrade to a the mirrorless tech, been on my mind a while now !

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Morning Lee, Yeah the R5 does sound like a great camera and it does sound very appealing. Like you I eagerly await it’s release and pricing. I’d miss viewing the data in the EVF if I switched back, that’s for sure. Have a good week mate 👍

[@DarrenJSpoonley]

Great idea for a vlog Darren ... you made some very valid points too .. would you go for the EOSr or even the new EOSr5 ?

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Possibly Darren. I think I’ll wait until the R5 comes out and look at the price and how it compares to my Sony, but I’d love to return to canon Take care my friend 🍺

[@jpappleton1384]

Great vlog as always Darren.....I have both the Nikon Z and Nikon DSLRs and for me it wasn’t so much a weight saving issue but more ease of use with the Z. It’s EVF is superb and I find myself favouring that camera when dipping in my bag. Anyway never mind the cameras where did you get those wellies from????😀

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Hi JP, Like you, It was never a weight saving exercise either. By the time you combine the body and lens, there’s very little between a DSLR and 70-200 or my Sony and G master. My wellies are about 8 years old and they are fishing wellies. Incredibly warm but not ideal for walking to far. I need some Hunters really 😉

[@tapio8417]

Usually people doesn’t relate to me when I talk about the feel of actually seeing trough an optical viewfinder. There’s just something that bothers me on evf. In videography I prefer evf over a screen, but thats another story. Also I like the slightly bigger size of dslr. I currently shoot with xt-4 and I absolutely love the looks of the images. But when it comes to using it as an tool for taking the photos it feels a little awkward and clumsy in my hands compared to 5D or D610/750 which I have previously owned. Don’t know if anyone here relates, but these are my thoughts about mirrorless vs dslr.

[@ruudmaas2480]

Really good experience review.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Thanks Ruud 👍

[@NIKONOVICH1990]

Mirrorless is just not sturdy enough, and baterry life has a life of its own. :) For studio, or any other "gentle" use, its mora than ok, but for "manly" work- its DLSR . I too went from DSLR->Mirrorless->DSLR :)

[@BernardBrunet]

Hi Darren, I know the feeling but lucky enough for me I’ve found a compromise, Panasonic S1! Mirrorless but big enough to feel like a DSLR! Sometimes we make decision and we regret, going through the process and grinding is part of the healing and accepting it. I’m sure you’ll keep us entertained with the Sony, enjoyed my friend.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Morning Bernard, I’m pleased you’ve found a camera that suits your needs, because at the end of the day, that’s the most important thing. I’m off to the photo show in a few weeks and so I’ll have a good play then. Have a great week mate 👍

[@pauldlewis3138]

If you lost or broke your sony and you had an insurance pay out, knowing what you know now .... cash in hand what would you buy.??

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

Hi Paul, I’d go back to canon. Either the 5D mk 4 or possibly the new R5 if it feels right and I could afford to switch. Great question 🍺

[@pauldlewis3138]

@@DarrenKnightPhoto Yes!!! .. now we just got to get Serge Ramelli to ditch the sony .... lol.

[@lenzielenski3276]

I dunno about you, but my sensor is behind a shutter regardless if its DSLR or mirrorless.

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

What mirrorless camera do you have Len?

[@zuperblue1]

Ive allways shot canon 30 years, i changed to nikon 3 years back and changed back fast to canon again, bought 2 600d,s and a 6Dmk2 then a Canon M50 thats going as fast as i can get rid of it, to me its just a toy, by the way i can see your turbines from my house

[@cameraman655]

You have a Mike Browne vibe.

[@raymeedc]

What’s the dilemma? You have some Canon Glass & your wife’s unused Canon DSLR. Do what I do, mainly into mirrorless, but keep a DSLR around with a lens or two for when the mood and/or the situation strikes. If you’d rather have a Canon body that better suits your wants, pick one up to use with your wife’s glass on the used market..... just sayin’

[@midiplaybox3453]

A real photographer shoots with a dslr.

[@oneeyedphotographer]

I own a 5Ds. There are photographs I can make with my camera and lenses that you cannot with your Sony camera and lenses. The converse is not true. Humour me. Borrow/rent a an EOS R and adaptor to EF lenses, and/or an RF lens or two. I think you will have fewer objections to it than you have with the Sony. Humour me again. Do the same with an Olympus OM-D EM-1 Mark III and Olympus lenses. It could be your foul weather kit.

[@zuperblue1]

As you progress through this vid, you come from the same place as me Astrophotography and i came to the same conclusions, bizar conection there

[@ivedigga]

A little miss leading mate without examples of any kind

[@DarrenKnightPhoto]

How is it misleading to offer my thoughts? What examples would you like?