Retro cameras are so overhyped – here are three reasons why full-size mirrorless models are the better choice
Retro cameras like the Nikon Z fc and the new Fujifilm X-T50 are all the rage, but should they be? They certainly look good, but I’m here to say there’s a better alternative: full-size mirrorless models.
The stark contrast between the two types of camera designs struck me recently when I was at Photo London, where all the latest and greatest Nikon cameras were on display as Nikon sponsored the event, including the Nikon Zf, Nikon Z8 and Nikon Z6 II.
The Zf attracted the most attention from gallery visitors; it stands out, like many other retro models, while the highly capable Z8 and Z6 II waited in the shadows. I picked up each Nikon camera in turn and what immediately struck me was how clumsy the Zf was to use compared to the full-size Z8 and Z6 II.
The experience got me thinking: would I be willing to sacrifice full functionality for looks? If you’ve been sucked in by the retro craze, there are three things you should first know about these old-school models.
1. Their handling is inferior
I’ve been around cameras long enough to appreciate the retro wave of 2024. The popular Nikon Zf and Z fc are directly inspired by the design of the Nikon FM2 SLR camera from 1982, but are packed with contemporary technology. Beautiful stuff. Fujifilm’s business also thrived in making retro cameras, with the latest model being the X-T50. However, camera design has evolved for the better since the good old analog SLR days.
If you want to actually use your camera rather than just look at it, a full-size mirrorless model will give you the slickest experience. That’s because full-size cameras, like the Nikon Z6 II, have a good grip for a secure and comfortable grip for extended use. They give you exposure controls at your fingertips via control buttons – you barely had to move your hands to make adjustments.
Retro cameras usually have no grip. Their exposure controls are nice, but the process of making changes using those controls is trickier. You may long for that slow experience, but the simple fact is that retro cameras prioritize looks over functionality.
2. Their lenses are limited
Most brands making retro cameras haven’t made enough lenses that really match the aesthetic. That’s part of the reason why I’ve currently resorted to testing little-known third-party lenses with the Nikon Z fc.
None of Nikon’s mirrorless lenses even come with an aperture dial, so you have to resort to adapting old analog lenses to mirrorless lenses for the authentic experience and settling for old-school image quality.
There are also more than profound issues. With no grip to speak of, you can forget about pairing a retro camera with a large lens – the balance is completely lost.
Retro cameras are best limited to small lenses for specific photography genres: street, reportage, portrait. For example, something like a 35mm f/2.8. Forget using retro gear to photograph distant wildlife.
If you have to go retro, I think the Fujifilm X100 series of fixed lens compact cameras are a hit, with the latest model being the excellent X100VI. No hassle with ill-fitting lenses that don’t match aesthetically – the X100 series stays in the sweet spot and is an all-in-one optimized package, unlike retro cameras with interchangeable lenses such as Fujifilm’s own .
3. They are expensive
Camera brands are responding to the retro trend. Retro cameras are expensive compared to similarly equipped full-size cameras. If you want the old-fashioned look, you pay tomorrow’s prices.
For most people, it’s a head-to-heart decision, assuming you love the retro camera look in the first place. Retro can put a smile on your face, and the feeling you get with a camera will influence how often you use it, but for me the appeal is usually fleeting, and retro hits the wallet harder.
If I’m going to use a camera to get a good shot, it’s going to be a full format camera. If I want the slickest operation, a full-size camera offers a solution. If I want a camera without limits, no matter what I’m shooting, full-size is the way to go. If I want a long-term creative tool, and the best bang for my buck, then you guessed it: a full-format camera is my choice.
Retro may satisfy your lustful desires, but full-size cameras are the cameras that will help you settle down.