I consider myself a Canon shooter throughout. This article is not about whether one camera manufacturer is objectively better or worse than another.
The basics of photography are the same on any camera: aperture, shutter speed, ISO. Different brands and models offer a variety of features, such as greater image resolution or lighter weight, but what’s harder to gauge is the “feel” of the camera. The way I adjust a setting on a Canon machine can be very different from how it is adjusted on a Sony.
ergonomics
This is how a particular camera feels in your hand. Where are the different buttons? Do you work with live events like weddings or concerts and want to constantly adjust your exposure settings? Then you might need something where these settings are easily accessible (even in the dark). Are you satisfied with setting the exposure to auto or aperture priority? Then you may need a camera with good exposure control.
You may or may not need a rotating LCD monitor. Perhaps you prefer something with a rounder or more angular body; these are not right or wrong things, but real preferences differ from user to user.
Weight
Similar to ergonomics is the weight of the camera. If you’re a studio photographer, it’s good not to consider weight. Or perhaps you even prefer something a little heavier. I know I do.
But imagine if you had to carry a lot of bodies at a wedding. Every gram will matter at the end of an 8 or 12 hour wedding shoot, so you’ll want something lighter. Also, consider whether a particular brand has certain lenses available. Personally, I work well and well with primes, but others may prefer zooming. Having to carry extra lenses can also add to the overall weight of your kit.
Third-party offers
For example, I know that Capture One, my favorite post-production program, only offers sets to some manufacturers and not others.
Another example is that my lighting kit uses only specific connection cables, not working with one of my film cameras. The point is to think about other things you own or plan to use with your camera and see if it will work with the camera body you have.
Conclusion
This is not an exhaustive list; I’m sure many others can factor in which camera or model you prefer. This article introduces a few things to consider when buying a new camera. A practical way to navigate these options might be to borrow a camera or body from a friend or rent it from a rental place. Often, these features are difficult to write or explain without trying them out yourself.
