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| 'Compact System' |
Also known as
Micro System Cameras, the newest system to enter the digital camera market
offers an impressive combination of compact size and removable lenses. Much
like DSLRs, there are a number of different fittings and mounts available, and
plenty of models now offer high-definition video too.
What are they?
Hybrid cameras
are developed to appeal to an audience wanting to upgrade from a compact camera
but don’t want the bulk of a DSLR. They share much of the creative potential as
their full-size cousins but with smaller bodies and smaller lenses. Their
design makes it impossible to include a pentaprism mirror which also defines a
cameras a camera as an SLR.
Movie Function
The lack of
mirror system in these cameras means they are much more suited to shooting
video – as you view is coming straight from the sensor anyway. For this reason
they are able to give DSLRs a run for their money in the HD video stakes.
Autofocus
Without a
mirror, autofocus is achieved using a contrast-detect system from the sensor
which, while vastly improved from early live view offerings, has still not
matched some of the more advanced dedicated AF system featured on DSLRs.
View Finder
Another symptom
of lacking a mirror is compact System Cameras having either a separate optical
viewfinder which sits on top of the camera, or an Electronic View Finder.
Although the quality from an EVF won’t be as good as the through-the-lens
option on a DSLR, it does offer a worthy alternative to the LCD
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