4/21/2011

Hybrid Cameras Explained

By Paul Stevens


Hybrid cameras, also called mirror less cameras, are a new breed of camera that combine the compactness of your compact digital camera with the picture quality of a digital single lens reflex camera. The modern hybrid cameras don't have a single lens reflex mirror taking away some of the bulk of a DSLR, but have a larger image sensor than your standard compact digital for better photos. A hybrid camera also doesn't have a standard viewfinder as in a DSLR, but rather uses an LCD screen or an electronic viewfinder that can be purchased separately. The hybrid cameras have interchangeable lenses like a DSLR, which makes them versatile enough for getting various types of shots. Additionally , they take incredible HD video in 780p or 1080p format.

Hybrid cameras are the answer to that middle market of customers who do not want to put money into luxury DSLRs, but would like to get better quality pictures than a compact digital. The hybrids are compact enough to transport around without difficulty. On many models, you are able to instantly record HD video without dealing with a menu. Most models run in the $300 - $1,000 range, which makes them very reasonably priced to many people.

Olympus and Panasonic use what is called a micro four thirds format for interchangeable lenses. It is an attempt to make a standard format for digital camera lenses making it possible to change with advanced DSLR lenses. Micro four thirds refer to the ratio of the image sensor, which is a 4 X 3. This size is smaller than an average 35mm, but about 10 times larger than a standard digital compact. The increased size and quality allow the photographer to shoot in lower light without the graininess connected with smaller image sensors.

Many major camera brands have come out with their own version of a hybrid camera. Panasonic led the way with the Lumix G1, then came Olympus with the PEN series. Sony announced the NEX 3 and 5. Nikon and Canon have plans to create hybrids very soon.

With all of the hype surrounding the modern hybrid cameras, it remains to be seen if the market for this type of camera will take off. Sales have steadily increased since 2008 and it's predicted to take off by 2012.

Hybrids provide you with the best of both worlds. They're compact enough to carry around easily and powerful enough to take great photos.




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