RETRO-STYLED MIRRORLESS CAMERAS
Now you can have style and substance. Turn heads as you snap with a traditional-looking model
Mirrorless cameras, also known as compact system cameras (CSCs) differ from DSLRs by the absence of a mirror as part of the shooting mechanism. This means they’re smaller and lighter, but can still take interchangeable lenses. Retro-inspired mirrorless cameras take design cues from point-and-shoot film cameras, so will suit you well if you want a portable model.
Good-looking cameras might seem less hardy, but for a beautiful design that’s also weatherproof, take a look at the Olympus OM-D E-M1 II (£1,849). It’s constructed out of a magnesium alloy, yet still carves a svelte figure at only 500g. If you’re someone who wants to push your kit to the limits, this is the model to go for - it wouldn’t be out of place up a mountain or on the ski slopes.
We’ve picked it because it’s Olympus’ most advanced Micro Four Thirds camera, with class-leading continuous shooting performance including a 60fps burst rate and five-axis in-body image stabilisation (a feature not yet found on DSLRs). It’s ideal if you want highspeed shooting and an advanced autofocus system in a body that’s smaller than a DSLR equivalent. What might make you pause is the similar price to a DSLR, yet smaller sensor size.
Another premium all-rounder is the Fujifilm X-T2 (£1,749). It’s a contender if you’re not set on one genre of photography and want a jack-of-all-trades camera that balances ergonomics and image quality. However, autofocus tracking isn’t its strongest suit, so it isn’t the most reliable for high-speed action.
Not all mirrorless cameras have a viewfinder, but the X-T2’s EVF is large, bright and crystal clear. This is also the first Fujifilm X-series camera to shoot 4K. The Fujifilm X-T2 is another comprehensive camera package in a tough yet portable shell. Although there’s traditionally been less choice of lenses for mirrorless cameras compared to DSLRs, Fuji has a growing range of zooms in its collection. The small form-factor, tactile controls and solid build make it a firm favourite in this category.