As I continue to improve my photography, I find myself at a crossroads: Nikon Z9 vs. Canon R3. It's time to invest in a high-end camera, and while both options offer incredible performance, key differences make this decision challenging.
I've always loved Nikon's image files—they resonate with me because of their depth and color science. The Z9 is Nikon's flagship mirrorless camera, boasting a stacked sensor, 45.7MP resolution, and no mechanical shutter. It is a powerhouse for both stills and video. However, based on YouTube comparisons and real-world reviews, Nikon's autofocus tracking and stickiness still seem to lag slightly behind Canon's top-tier offerings.
On the other hand, the Canon R3 offers incredible autofocus accuracy, faster subject tracking, and eye-control AF, which could be a game-changer in fast-paced shooting situations. I prefer a vari-angle flippy screen over Nikon's tilting screen, especially for dynamic compositions and video work.
Here's where my dilemma deepens. The Canon R6II offers nearly the same autofocus system as the R3, but at a lower price and with a more compact, lighter body. While the R3's stacked sensor provides an edge in readout speed, the R6II delivers similar real-world autofocus performance with excellent image quality, making me question whether I truly need the R3.
While the Nikon Z9 aligns with my preference for Nikon files, I can't ignore the Canon R3's superior autofocus and flippy screen. At the same time, the Canon R6II offers nearly the same performance as the R3 but is lighter and cheaper, which might make the most practical sense.
What do you think? If you've shot with these cameras, please comment below!
Downtown Oakland is a visual treasure trove for street photographers. The mix of historic and modern architecture, vibrant murals, and everyday city life creates endless opportunities for compelling shots. As someone who frequently captures urban life, I recently walked from the car shop to my office and noticed countless photogenic moments. While I took some pictures with my iPhone, I couldn't shake the feeling that my mirrorless camera would have done those scenes more justice. However, there's a dilemma—how do you safely navigate downtown Oakland with a professional camera?
Oakland is a city with character. The street art alone tells stories of resilience, culture, and community. Many alleys and building facades are adorned with large-scale murals that make perfect backdrops for street photography. The juxtaposition of old and new buildings, the energy of Chinatown, and the diverse crowd offer endless compositions.
Carrying a mirrorless camera in downtown Oakland isn't just about photography—it's about being street-smart. While the city offers incredible imagery, safety concerns exist, especially when walking alone. Expensive camera gear can attract unwanted attention, making photographers potential targets for theft. Here are some strategies I'm considering to balance creativity with caution:
Walk with a Buddy – The presence of another person can deter potential threats. Having a friend along provides an extra set of eyes and allows for collaborative street photography.
Use a Compact, Unassuming Setup – Instead of carrying a large camera bag, I could opt for a small crossbody bag and keep my mirrorless camera inside until I'm ready to shoot. A small prime lens (35mm or 50mm) helps maintain a lower profile than a bulky telephoto lens.
Be Selective with Your Shots. Instead of frequently stopping to compose images, I could mentally plan shots and take them quickly. This would minimize the time spent standing still and attracting attention.
Use a Wrist Strap Instead of a Neck Strap – A wrist strap allows for quick concealment, whereas a camera hanging around the neck makes it more obvious.
Shoot with Discretion – Taking photos in a way that blends into the environment is key. Holding the camera at waist level and using the tilt-screen to compose shots can help avoid drawing attention.
While mirrorless cameras offer superior image quality, I have to admit that today's smartphones are getting close, especially in broad daylight. The iPhone 16 Pro Max I carry produces excellent images with great dynamic range. Sometimes, it might be the best tool for the job when safety is a priority. However, a dedicated camera's creative control and depth of field are difficult to replicate on a smartphone.
Street photography in Oakland has unique challenges, but that shouldn't deter anyone from capturing its beauty. The key is to be aware, prepared, and adaptable. I'm still figuring out the best way to carry my mirrorless camera while staying safe, but for now, I'll be scouting the streets with my iPhone and planning my next shoot with a more discreet approach. If you're a photographer in the Bay Area, how do you handle safety concerns while shooting? Let's discuss this in the comments below!
When it comes to portrait and family photography, selecting the right lens can make all the difference. Over the years, I’ve found that a simple yet highly effective approach works best: using just two focal lengths: 50mm and 85mm. These two lenses allow me to capture stunning, natural-looking portraits while maintaining ease of use and creative flexibility. Let’s explore why these focal lengths are my go-to choices and why they might be perfect for you, too.
The 85mm focal length is widely regarded as one of the best for portraits, and a good reason. It provides a beautiful, natural proportion to human features, avoiding any distortion that wider lenses may introduce. This results in flattering, well-balanced portraits where facial features remain true to life.
Natural Proportions: Unlike shorter focal lengths, 85mm maintains a visually appealing ratio without making faces appear squished or stretched.
Smooth Background Blur: An 85 mm lens with a wide aperture (such as f/1.8 or f/1.4) creates a stunning bokeh that beautifully isolates your subject from the background.
Comfortable Working Distance: You don’t need to be too close to your subject, which will help them feel at ease and pose naturally.
While 85mm is perfect for tight portraits, 50mm offers more flexibility. It allows me to capture both close-ups and broader shots when needed—ideal for family sessions where I want to include multiple people in the frame.
More Room for Composition: If I need a broader perspective, I can step back instead of switching lenses.
Great for Indoor Shoots: The 50mm focal length works well in smaller spaces where stepping back may not be possible.
Lightweight and Fast: Most 50mm prime lenses are compact, lightweight, and have a wide aperture, making them excellent for low-light conditions.
While some photographers opt for longer lenses like 135mm or 200mm, I find that they introduce a few challenges:
Difficult Communication: Standing too far away makes giving instructions and connecting with the subject harder.
Heavier Gear: Longer focal lengths often mean bulkier, heavier lenses that can be a strain during extended shoots.
Limited Space Flexibility: In tighter environments, longer lenses may not allow enough room to frame the shot correctly. Conversely, wider focal lengths (35mm or 24mm) tend to introduce distortion that can make subjects appear unnaturally stretched or squished, which is —something I prefer to avoid in portrait work.
Tamron’s 35-150mm f/2-2.8 might be an excellent option for photographers looking for an all-in-one solution. It covers the ideal portrait range (50mm to 85mm) while offering the flexibility to go broader or longer. With a fast aperture and sharp optics, this lens has the potential to be a one-lens solution for portrait and family sessions.
Through experience, I’ve learned that fewer choices can make me a better photographer. By mastering 50mm and 85mm, I’ve been able to focus more on composition, lighting, and storytelling rather than constantly switching lenses. These two focal lengths perfectly balance subject proportion, background blur, and usability.
Consider simplifying your gear and working with these two focal lengths to elevate your portrait and family photography. You might find that less is more when capturing beautiful, timeless images.
Winter photography presents unique challenges, especially for those with weekday commitments. Short daylight hours, uninspiring cityscapes, and safety concerns can limit the opportunities to capture compelling images. For photographers working in urban environments like downtown Oakland, the lack of captivating scenery and safety considerations can make carrying a camera feel risky. However, embracing these constraints and focusing on weekend photography can open up new creative possibilities.
Limited Daylight: With shorter days, natural light fades quickly, reducing the window for capturing well-lit shots.
Lack of Inspiration: Urban environments may lack seasonal charm, with bare trees and overcast skies creating a dull backdrop.
Safety Concerns: Carrying expensive gear while walking alone, especially in certain areas, can be risky.
Weather Constraints: Rain and cold temperatures make outdoor photography less appealing and challenging to execute.
Since weekdays may not be ideal, photographers can make the most of weekends by planning efficiently and adapting their approach.
Weekends provide more time to catch the best natural light. Aim for:
Golden Hour Magic: The warm glow of sunrise and sunset can enhance even the simplest scenes.
Bright Overcast Days: Soft, diffused light eliminates harsh shadows, ideal for portrait and street photography.
Post-Rain Brilliance: Wet surfaces can create reflective compositions, adding drama and depth to cityscapes.
Winter may seem monotonous in an urban setting, but subtle seasonal changes offer opportunities:
Foggy Mornings: Downtown Oakland occasionally sees fog rolling in, which can add a moody, cinematic effect.
Rain Reflections: Puddles and wet pavement provide mirror-like surfaces, perfect for creative compositions.
Seasonal Markets & Events: Holiday decorations and farmers' markets can introduce color and vibrancy to winter photography.
Since downtown Oakland may not be ideal, consider venturing out:
Parks & Waterfronts: Lake Merritt or the Berkeley Marina offer natural scenery with fewer urban distractions.
Hiking Trails: Winter landscapes in the East Bay hills can provide breathtaking views, misty atmospheres, and peaceful settings.
Quiet Neighborhoods: Residential areas with unique architecture and tree-lined streets may offer unexpected beauty.
If outdoor shooting isn't an option, consider:
Still Life & Macro Photography: Experiment with textures, patterns, and light indoors.
Documenting Daily Life: Capture candid moments, whether it's your workspace, morning routine, or a cozy cafe visit.
Editing & Experimentation: Winter is a great time to refine post-processing skills and revisit past photos with fresh eyes.
Winter won’t last forever, and soon, longer daylight hours and better weather will expand photography opportunities. Until then, making the most of weekends and adapting creative strategies can help photographers stay inspired. By embracing seasonal nuances, exploring new locations, and refining indoor photography skills, winter can become a season of growth rather than limitation.
How do you overcome the challenges of winter photography? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments!
In the fast-evolving world of photography, mirrorless cameras have taken center stage with their blazing-fast autofocus, compact designs, and rapid advancements in AI-based tracking. However, many photographers, including myself, still find a certain magic in DSLR images that modern mirrorless cameras struggle to replicate. As I reflect on my photography journey, I feel an increasing urge to revisit DSLRs—not for nostalgia’s sake, but for the image quality and unique rendering they provide.
One of the key reasons I keep returning to DSLR images, particularly from cameras like the Nikon D600, is the way these cameras handle colors, depth, and dynamic range. The sensors in DSLRs were, in a sense, "complete." Unlike today’s mirrorless sensors, which are optimized for speed and computational enhancements, DSLR sensors were designed with a focus on pure image quality.
Many photographers on YouTube and photography forums echo similar sentiments. Some Canon users, for example, still prefer the Canon EOS R over the newer Canon R6 and R5, citing that the original EOS R produces richer, more organic images.
While mirrorless cameras are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible—offering lightning-fast autofocus, real-time tracking, and computational photography—their image rendering is evolving in a different direction. The focus has shifted toward speed and efficiency rather than pure aesthetic quality. This shift makes mirrorless cameras excellent tools for action, sports, and event photography, but some photographers feel that the soul of the image is getting lost in the process.
At some point, I know I will go back to using a DSLR to fully enjoy the experience of capturing "perfect" images. Unlike the instant precision of mirrorless cameras, DSLRs require a bit more engagement and effort. The way light interacts with the sensor, the natural contrast and color depth, and even the feel of the optical viewfinder all contribute to an immersive shooting experience.
That said, I won’t be abandoning mirrorless cameras completely. They have undeniable advantages for fast-paced and commercial work. However, a DSLR might still be my preferred tool for certain types of photography—portrait sessions, landscapes, and artistic projects.
If you’re a photographer who values image aesthetics over sheer speed, picking up a DSLR might be worth considering. Nikon D850, Canon 5D Mark IV, and even older models like the Nikon D600 still produce breathtaking images that feel different from modern mirrorless cameras. If you’ve never shot with a DSLR before, you might be surprised by the unique rendering they offer.
While the camera industry is moving full speed ahead with mirrorless innovations, there’s still a place for DSLRs in 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer missing the "look" of DSLR images or curious about why older cameras still have a loyal following, it’s worth revisiting these classic tools. I, for one, plan to enjoy the best of both worlds—leveraging the speed of mirrorless cameras for professional work while indulging in the timeless beauty of DSLR images for personal projects.
Are you still using a DSLR, or have you fully transitioned to mirrorless? Let me know in the comments!