Why a DSLR in 2022
Not Exactly Hyped
Let’s be honest, if you want to be part of the cool kids gang in 2022, you have to get a MILC, not a DSLR.
And this is exactly why you should get a DSLR in 2022, because this makes you the edgy kid on the block.
Value for Money
DSLRs offer incredible value for money, especially when you look at the used market. Many photographers are selling their DSLR kits, and most of them are amateurs who did not really push their cameras towards 100.000 shutter actuations.
User Experience
If you are fed up with looking at a computer screen all day, a DSLR is just the solution to your problems. Apart from a Leica M digital rangefinder, there is no other digital camera type that can provide a user experience as similar to an analog camera.
No Overheating
I know this is a controversial issue and some photographers bashed me in the past for bringing it up, but it is true that MILCs are more prone to overheating than DSLRs. Yes, it only happens in very warm conditions, but it happens – that is undeniable.
Size and Weight
MILCs are smaller and lighter than DSLRs, but not that much, especially if you take bulky mirrorless lenses into consideration.
If you really want to save weight and space, you have to pick a smaller sensor format, like MicroFourThirds. The minimal difference when picking a full frame MILC over a full frame DSLR does not justify the extra cost in my opinion.
Compact done well - a MILC Olympus OM-D M5 classic.
Some Recommended DSLRs
There are many awesome DSLRs, both new and old. The great news is that even the old models have very capable AF and usually more than good enough imaging performance. Be that as it may, the following models are favourites of mine that I can recommend wholeheartedly:
Nikon D7000
A 24 MP APS-C DSLR from Nikon with two card slots, very capable autofocus and incredibly low price point – that is the Nikon D7000. I got mine for 150 € with a Sigma zoom lens. Even today, the D7000 can be used in commercial and private scenarios without a second thought.
Nikon D700
The legendary 12 MP DSLR that made full frame accessible for the masses – Click here for my review.
Nikon D800
Only slightly more expensive than the Nikon D700, the Nikon D800 is probably the most underrated beast of a camera currently available on the used market. Get one before more photographers find out how good this new classic actually is.
Pentax 645Z
Another legendary camera that packs a serious punch – the Pentax 645Z gives access to medium format digital photography and the incredible lineup of Pentax 645 lenses dating back to the days of Pentax film bodies.
Final Thoughts
I love analog things, so it is only natural for me to also work with DSLRs. Admittedly, I also really like MILCs, not because they are better or smaller, but because they are different. Both camera types have their strengths and weaknesses, and it is important to pick the tool not based on what the manufacturers want to sell but on what actually suits your photography.
