System camera: what is it, what types are there, what alternatives exist?

Which camera do you prefer - regular or system? What does “system device” even mean, and how does it relate to the “standard” division into digital compact, DSLR and mirrorless? Is there a difference between a system camera and a DSLR? What are the pros and cons of such a complex? Let's keep it short and to the point.

What is a system camera?

In fact, it is a carcass to which various lenses, flashes and other “stuff” for photography can be attached.

Important! System cameras include both DSLR and mirrorless models.

The main feature is that the lens must be interchangeable. If you have in front of you the most advanced model of a mirrorless camera, but it has strictly one lens, it is not a system camera.

Included In addition to lenses, the following can go to the carcass:

• charging and batteries;
• flashes;
• external sound recording devices (microphones);
• remote controls, tripods and additional screens;
• additional cables for connecting to different connectors;
• protective devices - mufflers, clamps, protective glasses, covers and belts.

Advantages and disadvantages

If we compare with non-systemic models, we can distinguish a number advantages:

• photos are obtained different types (a long-focus lens is ideal for portrait photography and creates the effect of a blurred background, a wide-format lens allows you to photograph large landscapes, and so on);
• Can choose accessories for any situation – sports reportage, studio photo shoot, landscape photographs;
• optics for interchangeable lenses better qualitythan the built-in ones;
• the desired lens or flash can be purchased at a convenient time, this is suitable for the “growth” of professionalism - you can start with simple lenses, and as your skill grows, you can buy all the useful “stuff”.

Cons, compared to the advantages A little:

• high-quality optics (and other accessories) it's not cheap;
• Sometimes difficult to pick accessories specifically for your camera model.

In general, system models are convenient because one camera can be used in different situations for different types of shooting, which is suitable for a professional or a keen amateur. Yes, it is more expensive, but it opens up more scope for creative implementation.

Kinds

Overall are divided into:

• amateur;
• semi-professional;
• professional.

We recommend buying a semi-professional or professional carcass - this will make it easier to find accessories in the future and will not infringe on your creative aspirations.

Alternatives

Essentially there are two of them:

• mirrorless models of the budget (non-professional) segment;
• digital compact models (soap dishes).

Recently, they have gradually become a full-fledged alternative. smartphones. The cameras on them are becoming more and more improved. True, first of all, point-and-shoot cameras are threatened with “extinction” - a smartphone is lighter, more compact and always at hand.

Which type of camera should you choose? Ultimately, it all depends on your plans for the future. If you want to learn photography at a professional level, buy system models, Practice first with a kit lens (the one that comes with the sale), and then buy additional suitable lenses.

And if you need a device for taking pictures of yourself and family feasts, think - maybe it’s better to invest in a good modern smartphone with a really cool camera? It will be both cheaper and more useful in many ways.