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Resolved Question

Best mirrorless ILC for amateur cat photography?

Jul 30, 2012 1:07AM PDT

Hello, I need help choosing an interchangeable lens compact for a specific need: cat photos. I volunteer at a shelter in Italy and take the pics for : adoptions (web and paper flyers), the assoc.'s print materials - calendar, flyers, posters.
I've been using a Ricoh R10 (a compact with travel zoom) since 2009 and wanted to go reflex & get the Nikon D3100 on sale. Saw what's on the market now and am considering the Sony Alpha NEX 5N. Saw a review for the Canon EOS M (too expensive) at reviews.cnet.com/digital-cameras/canon-eos-m/4505-6501_7-35401433.html. The cameras listed in the comparison are the ones I've been looking at! Have not been able to find a review for ILC's and cat photography.
Model suggestions /comments for my needs?

I'd like to beautify my photos, since I take so many pics of cats (Mine, sheltered, strays). I don't like using the flash. But indoors, in cages it's almost obligatory.

At school, I did B/W printing in the darkroom. My first electronic camera in the '80s was a Minolta 7000, very bulky and cumbersome (it was dial free, and you had to wait a week for film to be developed!). When 35mm went digital, I went point&shoot.

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catsinitaly has chosen the best answer to their question. View answer
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Clarification Request
re: Best mirrorless ILC for amateur cat photography?
Jul 30, 2012 12:41PM PDT

Why mirrorless? For your use--"amateur cat photography at a shelter"--I don't see any advantage to a mirrorless camera over a DSLR. Given that, and the fact that budget is a concern, I'd recommend an older entry level DSLR from Canon or Nikon and a 50mm f1.8 lens.

My 2¢ - Mark

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Mirrorless for cats?
Jul 30, 2012 5:42PM PDT

I thought mirrorless because of less camera bulk to carry. Typically with cats, the right hand is holding the camera and the left hand, a jingly toy or snack to get the cat's attention. So, after reading about all the new mirrorless compacts, thought great new cameras with perhaps fast autofocus, no need for flash, less heavy.

Thank you for the 2cents, I took note of the lens and will see how the dslr cameras feel in my hands. Thank you!

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re: Mirrorless for cats?
Jul 31, 2012 11:32AM PDT

>"the left hand, a jingly toy or snack to get the cat's attention."

First thing I would recommend is that you (temporarily) attach a jingly toy to the camera strap.

Second thing I would recommend is one of the new (fixed lens) compacts with a large sensor and bright lens. e.g. the Sony RX100. Although be aware that these lenses are only bright on the wide angle end. i.e. they get darker as you zoom in. Which brings me (back) to...

Third thing I would recommend (in conjunction with the first thing) is what I said originally--an older entry level DSLR--e.g. Canon 600D or Nikon D3000 body only--and a 50mm f1.8 lens, which together should be in the same price range as a Sony RX100, but give you a little more magnification at f1.8 to better frame the cats. (And clip a jingly toy to the strap.)

Mark

Best Answer

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Advantages and Disadvantages
Jul 30, 2012 3:43AM PDT

The Sony NEX 5N has a very high quality sensor, which allows you to take photo in low light conditions without using a flash. However, its autofocus system is slower in low light, and is not as good as a DSLR for fast moving subjects. Also, the selection of native lenses is poor.

You might want to consider the Sony SLT-A57, which looks and behaves like a DSLR. It is roughly the same price as the NEX, but with a faster focusing system and more native (and better quality) lenses.

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Exact pros & cons for poor lighting & fast cats. Thanks!
Jul 30, 2012 5:32PM PDT

Thank you for the description of the different reactions under low light. It's exactly the problem I've been having with slow autofocus and blurry cat photos.

I wil look into the Sony SLT A 57. Thanks again!

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Got the Sony SLT A55 on sale
Aug 10, 2012 9:58PM PDT

Thanks PistonCup, I ended buying a used Sony A55 (in mint condition) kit with the Sony 18-200 lens. I took in my old Minolta 7000 and found out I can use the 18-55 AF Minolta lens on the A55! So, I'm pleased. Thanks again.