Does Size Matter in 2021? - Photography Talks

Don't let the title fool you, we're talking about does the size of your camera matter in 2021? This is a topic which I've personally been trying to answer through my photography journey and whilst I may not specifically have a definitive answer for you (or even for myself!), I can shed light on the subject.

When I refer to size, I'm specifically asking the question if interchangeable lens cameras such as DSLR's or Mirrorless still serve a purpose for the hobbyist photographer. Technology is spoiling us with options for different photography tools as cameras become smaller and more compact and on the other end, your smartphone is becoming more and more capable at delivering high-quality results so this raised a question for me, do I need to lug my big camera around with 2-3 lenses when a compact camera or even my smartphone can achieve the same results?

I ended up selling my entire Fujifilm camera kit and replaced it with two cameras, my compact Ricoh GR3 and Fujifilm x100V, both fixed lens compact cameras which are designed specifically for street photography or everyday snapshotting. Whilst I do fall into this category, my other major avenue is landscape photography. So I needed it to make sure that this new kit would work within my workflow. I gave it a fair go (about six months) and caved, bought a full-frame interchangeable camera and have not looked back.

So, let's talk about what I learnt in those six months covering the pros and drawbacks to this kit, why I think this approach may work for some but not all and why I decided to go back and buy and 'size up' my camera kit.

What did I learn through this experience? Less is sometimes more

I essentially was stuck with two cameras, both with fixed focal lengths ranging from 28mm to 35mm (for reference, my previous camera kit would span from 16mm to 210mm). Quite a bit to get used to but I found myself enjoying the change of pace! Not having to worry about which camera or lens to pack, which lens to use on a shoot, dealing with the weight and time wasted changing lenses, it was amazing!

When you don't have much choice in what to use, you make the most of what you do have! I found myself enjoying photography more because I spent more time taking photos!

Having a "no excuse camera" changed the way I shoot

There would be many times where I decided not to bring a camera with me on my outings because I didn't want to deal with the weight or felt it was a distraction. This would often always lead to many missed opportunities. Buying into a small compact camera allows you to carry it everywhere you go! There is never an excuse not to have my camera with me now. Hell, I take it to work with me and just keep it in my bag. Ever since I've made this change, I've noticed myself looking for photographic opportunities within my everyday life.

This gives me a chance to better document my life, taking photos of the regular encounters & moments to spend with family & friends within a high-quality photo. This has translated into more moments captured and me enjoying photography more than ever.

Keeping a low profile on location

The biggest advantage (and the whole purpose of these cameras) is how little they stand out. Something I've noticed since returning to interchangeable lenses is, how quickly people notice you! Using a small compact camera allows you to remain unnoticed which is something of great value to me as I love incorporating people into my images where possible. Being able to remain unseen allows me to capture more candid & honest images of people in their worlds.

The drawback (in the real world)

This format of the camera is very capable but it's also a very limiting format. Where is the downfall of this system? The fixed focal length. Yes, the very thing I love is also one of its drawbacks. This was the determining factor for why I decided to buy back into an interchangeable lens setup. For my style of photography (specifically landscapes) I like to get close to details within scenes. This is simply not possible with these types of cameras unless you're willing to crop like crazy.

Having the ability to be more flexible in my photography allows me to tell a more rounded story, showing the grand scene in the form of a wide establishing shot and showcase certain details within the scene using multiple telephoto shots.

This is the major limitation of these cameras, virtually being stuck within one focal length will mean you won't be able to capture every scene you encounter. This isn't a bad thing as it will allow you to focus on what you can capture using the equipment on you.

So, does size matter in 2021?

It depends! I wanted to use this form to share my experiences trailing this concept however, the conclusion I have reached is that it depends on your goals and your style. Utilising fixed-lens compact cameras can do 90% of what you need (if you're willing to get creative) but it will limit you depending on your focus.

To help you answer this question, I've compiled a summary pro's and con's list (based completely on my experiences) which might help you answer this question:

Pro's

1. Compact size and weight for portability

2. Able to bring it no matter what the occasion

3. More enjoyable shooting experience

4. Discrete, less likely to get noticed by others

5. Capture moments and memories within your everyday life

6. Able to edit and upload images on the go, no need for a laptop to process

7. Removes the decision making process for what lens/camera combo to bring out

Con's

1. Battery life is average

2. The fixed lens will not work for every situation (specifically tele photo)

3. Slow shooting experience - not ideal for sporting or fast moving subjects

4. Price - these cameras are often quite expensive to get into

5. Reliability - These cameras are rendered useless if you damage the lens component

To summarise my thoughts on the topic , I think you can achieve the same results as a DSLR or Interchangeable Mirrorless system. I use both my X100 and GR3 regularly (often prefer to shoot with them) because they just work so well for my style of photography. I highly recommend these systems for anyone looking to downsize their current kit or want something that's similar to shooting with a mobile phone but can produce big camera images.

Credit to Eunice Cai for this amazing shot of me!

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