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Mirrorless

7 reasons why i switched to a mirrorless camera system

By Evelyn Reed

Published: 21 Feb 2025

My Photography Journey: From Bulky DSLR to Nimble Mirrorless

Let me paint you a picture. It's 2018, I'm lugging around my trusty (but oh-so-heavy) DSLR, along with a backpack full of lenses, a tripod that felt like it weighed a ton, and extra batteries. I was on a backpacking trip in Yosemite, and by the time I'd reached my destination, I was exhausted! The sheer weight of my equipment almost overshadowed the breathtaking views. That's when I started seriously considering a switch to a mirrorless camera system. It seemed like a pretty drastic step at the time, but, man, am I glad I did it! I'm going to share the top seven reasons why mirrorless cameras completely transformed my photography and, dare I say, my life!

Backpacker with heavy DSLR camera gear in Yosemite | Image: Supplied

1. The Weight Difference is Night and Day (Literally!)

Mirrorless cameras are significantly lighter than their DSLR counterparts. I'm talking a dramatic difference—like swapping a bowling ball for a feather! This makes a huge difference whether you're hiking, traveling, or simply shooting around town. My neck and shoulders thank me every day. I can take my camera everywhere now without worrying about the added weight dragging me down. I even take it on spontaneous outings with friends!

Comparison of DSLR and mirrorless camera weight | Image: Supplied

2. Size Matters: Mirrorless Cameras are More Compact

The smaller size of mirrorless cameras is another game-changer. It's like the difference between a clunky desktop computer and a sleek laptop – one you can easily slip into a bag, the other...not so much. My mirrorless camera fits comfortably in a small tote bag or even just a large pocket! This portability has opened up so many more photographic opportunities. For example, I can now easily photograph spontaneous events, like my niece's birthday party without huge equipment hassles!

Compact mirrorless camera compared to a DSLR | Image: Supplied

3. Superior Image Quality: No More Compromises

Gone are the days of worrying about image quality! Mirrorless cameras produce incredible photos, rivaling and sometimes surpassing even the best DSLRs. The sensor technology has advanced so rapidly, so you really get high-quality images in almost any situation. The images are sharper, more detailed, and with amazing colors. Honestly, it's the reason alone that makes switching to a mirrorless camera more appealing.

High-resolution image from a mirrorless camera | Image: Supplied

4. Amazing Video Capabilities: Photography and Videography in One

Many mirrorless cameras offer exceptional video recording capabilities. I've always loved photography, but lately, I've been venturing into videography, and my mirrorless camera has made the process incredibly easy. The video quality is stunning, and the autofocus is superb – which is a lifesaver when filming on the move! Now, I can film all my memorable moments in incredible clarity!

High-quality video footage recorded using a mirrorless camera | Image: Supplied

5. Faster Autofocus: Say Goodbye to Blurry Pictures!

Mirrorless cameras boast incredibly fast and accurate autofocus systems. I used to miss so many shots with my old DSLR because of slow autofocus, but that's a thing of the past! Now, I can capture those fleeting moments, like children playing or birds in flight. No more blurry images of those priceless moments. It's truly transformed my photography.

Mirrorless camera with fast autofocus | Image: Supplied

6. Advanced Features: More Creative Control

Mirrorless cameras offer a plethora of advanced features and settings that give you complete creative control over your photos and videos. From electronic viewfinders that provide a precise preview to in-body image stabilization that reduces camera shake, you'll find yourself pushing your creative boundaries even further. It's amazing how this has improved my overall image composition!

Advanced settings menu on a mirrorless camera | Image: Supplied

7. The Future is Now, and it's Mirrorless!

The technology behind mirrorless cameras is constantly evolving, with new and improved models hitting the market regularly. It's exciting to be part of this evolution and to have a camera that's always on the cutting edge of technology. It's a constantly evolving journey and I love to see what the future holds!