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Photo Tips: This time, EVIL is good
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Finally there's a compact, high-performance camera that answers the needs of traveling photographers. Let the shooting begin
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BY BOB KRIST
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It used to be a pipe dream: a camera with all the capabilities of a big DSLR (digital single-lens reflex) but the portability of a point-and-shoot. Formerly, to get the convenience of a point-and-shoot, we had to put up with the dreaded shutter lag, poor low-light picture quality and a fixed zoom lens. To get the features and versatility of switchable lenses plus a larger chip for good images in low light, we had to lug around a big DSLR camera.
Suddenly the game has changed, thanks to a new class of camera called EVIL. No, not because they’re nefarious—the name is an acronym of Electronic Viewfinder Interchangeable Lens. By replacing the mirror prism (necessary for a DSLR’s through-the-lens viewing) with an electronic viewfinder, manufacturers can make full-featured cameras that are way smaller than most DSLRs. This new breed of compact delivers big results without sacrificing a viewfinder. (You can always compose your shot using the LCD screen on the back of the camera, but if you’ve ever tried to do that on a sunny day, you know how useful it can be to put a viewfinder up to your eye.)
ALL EVILS ARE NOT EQUAL
Their basic construction is similar, but there’s a lot of variety in EVILs, so shop for one that meets your most important criteria. If you want a small camera, look for a model with a built-in electronic viewfinder, such as the Panasonic Lumix DMC G3, not an add-on. If you want high-quality images when shooting in low light without a flash, consider the Sony NEX 5n or NEX 7. Like DSLRs, these cameras have big sensors that can produce incredibly detailed photographs with a minimum of “noise,” or digital grain.
THROUGH A LENS
The mirrorless design permits the use of inexpensive adapters, so you can install your favorite DSLR lenses on many EVIL cameras. You may lose some capabilities, like autofocus, but you can still adjust the focus and aperture manually. (Bear in mind, though, that DSLR lenses tend to be a bit hefty.)
Compact, “pancake” lenses are also popular with EVIL cameras. These single focal-length prime lenses, usually with a fast aperture of f/2.8 or faster, are as flat as their nickname implies. Slide one of them onto your EVIL and pop the camera into your pocket (though we’re talking jacket, not shirt, pocket). Their small size and great light-gathering capabilities make them ideal for parties and nightlife.
So if you’ve been looking to upgrade your vacation pictures without adding extra weight to your bag, consider going EVIL—you know you want to.
SOME TOP EVIL CAMERAS
All these models shoot both still photos and 1,080 HD video. Retail prices range from about $400 to more than $1,000.
Nikon: V1
Sony: NEX 5n, NEX 7
Panasonic: Lumix DMC-G3, Lumix GH2
Samsung: NX200
Olympus: PEN E-P3, PEN E-PM1
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Published: Summer 2012
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Photos: Nikon, Inc.; Sony Electronics
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