GRINMOR TECH INC.

When Compact System Cameras were launched a few years ago, nobody could have predicted how popular they would become. In 2008 Panasonic brought out a mirror-less, interchangeable lens camera in order to fill what they thought would be a fairly small niche of people who wanted DSLR functionality with the convenience of a compact camera. Until then it was thought that all photography enthusiasts would ultimately progress from a basic compact to the single lens reflex camera, as it has been at the pinnacle of camera technology for so many years. However the stunning success of the CSC range has shown that there are many out there who don’t want the cumbersome weight of large camera bodies and lenses, but do want the flexibility and excitement of shooting with a top of the range camera. Above all, a CSC is fun! [I:http://www.grinwebbus.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/JasonTandy13.jpg]

Normal DSLR cameras are the size and shape they are because they contain the single lens reflect system. It could be a mirror or a prism, but it is the system by which the user can look through the viewfinder and see what image is coming through the lens. Camera manufacturers know that modern digital cameras do not need this system – the image can be viewed more easily on the back monitor than the through the viewfinder – but they dare not change the cameras too much for fear of offending convention. CSCs have disposed of the mirror system (and viewfinder) completely and so can reduce their size and thickness substantially. They can be as small as a standard compact camera.

In fact, with a pancake lens (small and wide) a CSC can easily hide in a jacket pocket or purse. this adds to their functionality – after all how many times have we not taken that picture, because bringing our camera would have been too much effort. CSCs can be collected with your keys and wallet. Whilst most manufacturers have developed an adapter for their standard lenses to fit their CSC range, it is better to use the specialized CSC lenses. They are superb quality and utilize the full functionality of the camera. In some cases standard lenses don’t offer auto focus, for example.

Most CSC ranges offer at least the pancake lens, which is often very wide, but has great flexibility in terms of shutter speed and aperture, and the longer lens which takes you up to around 42mm or 55MM. Even longer lenses are now being introduced up to 100MM or so. It is unlikely than longer lenses will be made. Remember this is a fun camera range – whilst they can produce excellent images in most conditions, they are not designed for extra long lenses or day to day professional use.

Fun is the defining word for CSC cameras. Because the designers were able to start from scratch, they have filled their cameras with all sorts of goodies. Big files have been accompanied by wide ISO ranges and burst speeds which would put even the most expensive DSLRs to shame. For example, the Nikon J1 can go up to 60 FPS! They also tend to have some quite innovative auto focus systems, which can make them extremely quick. Their Video functions are also very clever. Most of them shoot full HD and some can even help you to create a favicon for your social media page. In camera software can help you edit your photos, or do it for you, making a selection of the best pictures and discarding the rest.

Over the last few years, CSCs have established themselves in the hearts of enthusiast and purist alike. The innovation and advanced technology you find in these cameras is often trialled by the manufacturers before they put them in their best selling DSLR ranges. Consequently, you sometimes marvel at the potential of these little cameras. They are fun, small and exciting, and they are predicted to outsell DSLRs in a few years time.

Jason Tandy has worked in the photography industry for more than twenty years. He has a particular interest in digital photography and good cameras. Learn more about the best digital slr cameras available from his camerawize website. It is constantly updated and can help you take better photographs.