Mirrorless cameras remove the reflex, digital removed the fun

Engadet explains the benefits of a Mirrorless camera and why you don't really need one if you are hanging on to an SLR or another camera that works just fine.

I used to think I got all the benefits of a mirrorless camera from the reduced camera shake in my Twin Reflex Cameras, but it turns out there is more to it than not having a mirror slapping around inside your camera. If you have autofocus, it can use more focusing points. Also, the cameras are smaller.

Modern mirrorless cameras can have more autofocus points in the frame, since the sensor is always exposed to the scene, can detect subjects like eyes, animals or vehicles and preview exposure changes before you shoot, and can even feature electronic shutters that allow for very fast bursts without a mirror slapping around inside the camera body. It can make photography easier for the novice, because what you see through the viewfinder is much closer to what you'll get. The optical viewfinders on DSLRs, however, do not use a small screen to view the image, so battery life is typically superior since the camera does not have to power a screen to see everything when composing a picture.

Removing the mirror also makes the camera body smaller, but attaching a huge telephoto lens to the front of the camera soon shatters the pocket camera illusion. 

Things are less clear-cut with image quality. With a good sensor and a good lens, you can take great photographs in either format. But the larger mirrorless improvements are in autofocus, shooting speed, video and the overall shooting experience, which is why Canon and Nikon turned to mirrorless cameras.Engadget

I either use my iPhone or a film camera. I rarely decide to go out and take photos of things, so the camera is rarely with me anymore. I used to always have one with me — but over time the smartphone has won. I don't see any value in a new mirrorless back for my old Nikon lenses; I can use them with my F5, FMNT, or whichever digital back I still have around if I really want. Over time, things become more and more "just use the phone," as it also stores directly into an archive.

Largely digital just killed the fun for me. There is no element of "did I get what I wanted?" just "Ok, take 100 more images, and we'll figure it out at home."

Previously:
• Boomers had film, Gen Z has TikTok — This gadget bridges the gap
• Photography is fun again with these themed Polaroid bundles
• Look at this delightfully weird photo-in-photo stop motion masterpiece