Guide by Eric John

Guide

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Hybrid cameras, also called mirror less cameras, are a new breed of camera that combine the compactness of a compact digital camera with the picture quality of a digital single lens reflex camera. The new hybrid cameras don't have a single lens reflex mirror taking away some of the bulk of a DSLR, but have a larger image sensor than your standard compact digital for better photos. A hybrid camera also does not have a standard viewfinder as in a DSLR, but rather uses an LCD screen or an electronic viewfinder that can be purchased separately. The hybrid cameras have interchangeable lenses like a DSLR, making them versatile enough to get many types of shots. They also take incredible HD video in 780p or 1080p format. Hybrid cameras are the answer to that middle market of customers who don't want to invest in high end DSLRs, but want to get higher quality pictures than a compact digital. The hybrids are compact enough to carry around very easily. On many models, you can instantly record HD video without going through a menu. Most models run in the $300 - $1,000 range, making them very affordable to many. Olympus and Panasonic use what's known as a micro four thirds format for interchangeable lenses. This is an attempt to come up with a standard format for digital camera lenses to make it possible to exchange with advanced DSLR lenses. Micro four thirds refer to the ratio of the image sensor, which is a 4 X 3. This size is smaller than a standard 35mm, but about 10 times larger than a standard digital compact. The increased size and quality allow the photographer to shoot in lower light without the graininess associated with smaller image sensors. Many major camera brands have come out with their own version of a hybrid camera. Panasonic led the way with the Lumix G1, then came Olympus with the PEN series. Sony came out with the NEX 3 and 5. Nikon and Canon have plans to come out with hybrids very soon. With all of the hype surrounding the new hybrid cameras, it remains to be seen if the market for this type of camera will take off. Sales have steadily increased since 2008 and it is predicted to take off by 2012. Hybrids offer the best of both worlds. They are compact enough to carry around easily and powerful enough to take great photos with the right lens.

Paul K Stevens is author and publisher of an online buyer's guide to Hybrid Cameras.

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