So why do cameras like the mirrorless Fujifilm X-M5 have the edge over our smart phones? Photo by Tegan Phillipa.

Cameras have never been so good, but best of all are the latest mirrorless cameras. Mirrorless cameras have replaced the SLR and DSLR cameras used by professionals in the past and they produce far better image quality than even the best smartphone cameras.

So, what are the differences? Let’s start with a smartphone camera. As convenient as they are, their small size is also their main shortcoming. Their image sensors are physically very small, which for technical reasons limits the detail, colour and tonality they can capture, especially in low light. And while it’s true the images can be enhanced and look pretty good on your phone’s screen, they can struggle when viewed on a larger device or screen (as so many people do).

However, in comparison to an old SLR or DSLR camera, smartphones are much more convenient to use. ‘SLR’ stands for ‘single lens reflex’ and refers to a mirror used inside the camera so we can see what we are photographing. They were the most advanced cameras available in the days of film and they gave photographers full control over creative aspects of photography, such as selective focus and exposure (brightness) control. They also accepted a wide range of lenses from ultra wide-angles to super telephotos. All the professionals and enthusiasts used SLR cameras.

When digital technology arrived, manufacturers replicated the SLR design, but soon realised they could make a much more versatile and practical camera with a mirrorless design. Focusing could be more accurate, you could see exactly what the photo was going to look like in the viewfinder before you took it and it the camera could be smaller too. However, the mirrorless camera kept all the creative advantages plus it allowed a seamless transition to video.

All this seems so obvious today – aren’t all cameras easy to use? Nevertheless, you’ll find experienced photographers and bloggers use both smartphones and mirrorless cameras because, when time and planning allow, you simply can’t match the quality produced on a ‘proper’ camera like the Fujifilm X-series.