How to Change Lenses on A Mirrorless Camera?

16 minutes read

Changing lenses on a mirrorless camera is a straightforward process that involves a few simple steps. First, make sure your camera is turned off to prevent any damage. Locate the lens release button or switch on the camera body, usually found near the lens mount. Press or move this button/switch to release the current lens.


Next, carefully twist the lens counterclockwise to remove it from the camera body. Be sure to hold the lens securely to prevent it from accidentally falling. Then, take your new lens and align the mounting marks on the lens and camera body. Gently guide the new lens into the camera mount and twist it clockwise until it clicks into place.


Once the lens is securely attached, turn on your camera and you're ready to start shooting with your new lens. Remember to protect both the front and rear lens elements when changing lenses to prevent dust or debris from entering your camera.

Best Mirrorless Cameras of November 2024

1
Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Camera: Compact APS-C Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera with Real-Time Eye Auto Focus, 4K Video, Flip Screen & 16-50mm Lens - E Mount Compatible - ILCE-6400L/B, Black

Rating is 5 out of 5

Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Camera: Compact APS-C Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera with Real-Time Eye Auto Focus, 4K Video, Flip Screen & 16-50mm Lens - E Mount Compatible - ILCE-6400L/B, Black

  • Enhanced subject capture: wide 425 Phase/ 425 contrast detection points over 84 percent of the sensor
  • Fast and accurate: Up to 11Fps continuous shooting at 24.2 MP raw with crisp, clear natural colors
  • Multiple movie functions: Make time lapse movies or slow/quick motion videos without post processing
2
Sony a7 III (ILCEM3K/B) Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable-Lens Camera with 28-70mm Lens with 3-Inch LCD, Black

Rating is 4.9 out of 5

Sony a7 III (ILCEM3K/B) Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable-Lens Camera with 28-70mm Lens with 3-Inch LCD, Black

  • 15-stop dynamic range, 14-bit uncompressed RAW, ISO 50 to 204,800
  • Up to 10fps Silent or Mechanical Shutter with AE/AF tracking
  • 693 phase-detection / 425 contrast AF points w/ 93% image coverage
  • Sensor Type : 35mm full frame (35.6×23.8mm), Exmor R CMOS sensor
3
Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Vlogging Camera (Black) w/RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens, 24.2 MP, 4K Video, Subject Detection & Tracking, Compact, Smartphone Connection, Content Creator

Rating is 4.8 out of 5

Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Vlogging Camera (Black) w/RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens, 24.2 MP, 4K Video, Subject Detection & Tracking, Compact, Smartphone Connection, Content Creator

  • Compact, lightweight RF mount camera with a 24.2 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor and DIGIC X processor.
  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF II covering up to 100% x 100% area with 651 AF zones with auto subject detection and tracking of people, animals, and vehicles using deep learning technology
  • Continuous shooting with 12 fps with Electronic First Curtain and 15 fps with Electronic Shutter.
4
Sony Alpha ZV-E10 - APS-C Interchangeable Lens Mirrorless Vlog Camera Kit - Black

Rating is 4.7 out of 5

Sony Alpha ZV-E10 - APS-C Interchangeable Lens Mirrorless Vlog Camera Kit - Black

  • Large 24.2MP APS-C Exmor CMOS Sensor and fast BIONZ X processor
  • 4K Movie oversampled from 6k w/ full pixel readout, no pixel binning
  • Product Showcase Setting transitions focus from face to object
5
Panasonic LUMIX G7KS 4K Mirrorless Camera, 16 Megapixel Digital Camera, 14-42 mm Lens Kit, DMC-G7KS

Rating is 4.6 out of 5

Panasonic LUMIX G7KS 4K Mirrorless Camera, 16 Megapixel Digital Camera, 14-42 mm Lens Kit, DMC-G7KS

  • Superb DSLM image quality without the bulk and weight of traditional DSLRs
  • Never miss a photo with three unique 4K ultra HD video pause and save 4K photo modes
  • Unwire your creativity with integrated Wi Fi sharing
6
Nikon Z 30 with Wide-Angle Zoom Lens | Our most compact, lightweight mirrorless stills/video camera with 16-50mm zoom lens | Nikon USA Model

Rating is 4.5 out of 5

Nikon Z 30 with Wide-Angle Zoom Lens | Our most compact, lightweight mirrorless stills/video camera with 16-50mm zoom lens | Nikon USA Model

  • Designed for creators, vloggers and streamers: Nikon's easy to use Z 30 mirrorless 4K camera with a versatile 16-50mm wide-angle zoom lens
  • Easy live streaming: Plug and play webcam operation, smooth Full HD 60p streaming over USB-C, 4K 30p streaming over HDMI and constant power over USB-C
  • A kit that grows with you: Compatible with Nikon's entire line of exceptional NIKKOR Z lenses, from fast primes to macro lenses, so you can expand your capabilities over time
7
Canon EOS R100 RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 is STM Lens Kit, Mirrorless Camera, RF Mount, 24.1 MP, Continuous Shooting, Eye Detection AF, Full HD Video, 4K, Lightweight, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Content Creation

Rating is 4.4 out of 5

Canon EOS R100 RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 is STM Lens Kit, Mirrorless Camera, RF Mount, 24.1 MP, Continuous Shooting, Eye Detection AF, Full HD Video, 4K, Lightweight, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Content Creation

  • Compact, lightweight EOS R series camera with an affordable price
  • Smallest and lightest camera body in the EOS R series1 built for excellent mobility
  • Continuous capture of up to 6.5 shots per second when set to One-Shot AF
8
Fujifilm X-T5 Mirrorless Digital Camera XF16-80mm Lens Kit - Black

Rating is 4.3 out of 5

Fujifilm X-T5 Mirrorless Digital Camera XF16-80mm Lens Kit - Black

  • Offering the ultimate image quality, X-T5 features the class-leading, 40.2-megapixel X-Trans 5 HR CMOS sensor in a compact, lightweight body that maximizes functionality and portability. X-T5’s improved image processing algorithm delivers outstanding results, packed with detail right across the native ISO range, which now extends to ISO 125. The classic X Series design has been retained. Dials predominate, making key functions – including ISO, shutter speed and exposure compensation – quick and easy to set, even with the camera switched off. X-T5 offers a new, 1.84 million dot, three-way tilting LCD and powerful in-body image stabilization.
  • Following in the footsteps of X-H2, find the stunning Pixel Shift Multi-Shot mode in X-T5, delivering detailed files like never before. The feature utilizes the camera’s IBIS system to precisely shift the sensor, automatically recording 20 separate frames with one press of the shutter release. Resulting files are combined using Pixel Shift Combiner software to quadruple the camera’s resolution and produce a detail-rich, 160-megapixel file. Perfect for commercial applications or digital archiving, it’s also ideal for any static subject where image quality is of primary importance.
9
Canon EOS R8 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera (Body Only), RF Mount, 24.2 MP, 4K Video, DIGIC X Image Processor, Subject Detection & Tracking, Compact, Lightweight, Smartphone Connection, Content Creator

Rating is 4.2 out of 5

Canon EOS R8 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera (Body Only), RF Mount, 24.2 MP, 4K Video, DIGIC X Image Processor, Subject Detection & Tracking, Compact, Lightweight, Smartphone Connection, Content Creator

  • Step up to full-frame with Canon’s lightest full-frame RF Mount mirrorless camera featuring a 24.2 million pixel CMOS image sensor and DIGIC X Image Processor.
  • An affordable and compact camera with built-in 0.39” 2.36 million dots OLED EVF up to 120 fps refresh rate and 3.0” 1.62 million dots vari-angle LCD touchscreen.
10
Fujifilm X-T50 Mirrorless Digital Camera XF16-50mmF2.8-4.8 R LM WR Lens Kit - Charcoal Silver

Rating is 4.1 out of 5

Fujifilm X-T50 Mirrorless Digital Camera XF16-50mmF2.8-4.8 R LM WR Lens Kit - Charcoal Silver

  • Dedicated Film Simulation dial offering fast access to 20 Film Simulations (including REALA ACE mode)
  • 40.2-megapixel X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor
  • Supports all X Series lenses and includes a 1.4x and 2x Digital Teleconverter
  • 6.2K/30P, 4K/60P, FHD/240P, 4:2:2 10-Bit Video


How to ensure the new lens is properly attached to the mirrorless camera?

  1. Make sure the camera is turned off before attaching the new lens.
  2. Remove the body cap from the camera.
  3. Align the white dot or line on the lens with the corresponding dot or line on the camera body.
  4. Gently twist the lens clockwise until you hear a click or feel it lock into place.
  5. Don't force the lens onto the camera - it should attach smoothly and easily.
  6. Check that the lens is securely attached by gently trying to twist it counterclockwise - it should not move.
  7. Turn on the camera and test the new lens to ensure it is functioning properly. If you encounter any issues, remove the lens and try attaching it again.
  8. Periodically check the attachment of the lens to the camera to ensure it remains secure during use.


What is the best way to store unused lenses for a mirrorless camera long-term?

The best way to store unused lenses for a mirrorless camera long-term is to keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It is also advisable to store them in a padded case or bag to protect them from any impact or potential damage. Additionally, it is important to periodically check and clean the lenses to ensure they are in good condition.


How to prevent lens flare when changing lenses on a mirrorless camera?

  1. Use a lens hood: A lens hood can help to block out stray light that may cause lens flare when changing lenses.
  2. Be mindful of the angle of the camera: When changing lenses, try to keep the camera pointed downwards or away from the direction of light sources to minimize the chances of lens flare.
  3. Keep the rear lens element covered: When removing and attaching a lens, make sure to keep the rear lens element covered with a lens cap or body cap to prevent any dust or debris from entering and causing lens flare.
  4. Clean the lens and sensor: Dust or smudges on the lens or sensor can contribute to lens flare, so make sure to keep them clean before changing lenses.
  5. Avoid changing lenses in direct sunlight: Changing lenses in direct sunlight can increase the likelihood of lens flare, so try to find a shaded area when swapping out lenses.
  6. Use a lens cloth or air blower: Before attaching a new lens, use a lens cloth or air blower to remove any dust or debris on the lens mount or sensor to prevent them from causing lens flare.


How to store lenses securely when not in use on a mirrorless camera?

There are several ways to safely store lenses for a mirrorless camera when they are not in use:

  1. Use a padded camera bag or case: Invest in a camera bag with padded compartments to store your lenses securely. Make sure each lens has its own compartment to prevent them from knocking against each other.
  2. Use lens caps and rear caps: Always replace the front and rear lens caps when your lenses are not in use. This will protect the glass elements and prevent dust and debris from getting inside.
  3. Use a lens pouch or sleeve: Consider using a lens pouch or sleeve for added protection when storing your lenses. These can offer a bit of cushioning and help prevent scratches.
  4. Store in a cool, dry place: Avoid storing your lenses in humid or excessively hot environments. Instead, choose a cool, dry place to store them to prevent any damage.
  5. Use a lens rack or shelf: If you have multiple lenses, consider storing them on a lens rack or shelf. This can help keep them organized and easily accessible while also preventing any accidental damage.


By following these tips, you can ensure that your lenses are stored securely and in good condition when not in use.


What is the difference between manual and autofocus lenses for a mirrorless camera?

Manual lenses require the photographer to physically adjust the focus ring on the lens to achieve sharp focus, while autofocus lenses use motorized mechanisms within the lens to automatically adjust the focus based on the subject being photographed. Autofocus lenses are generally more convenient and easier to use, especially for quick and spontaneous shooting situations, while manual lenses can offer more precise control over the focus and are often preferred by some photographers for certain types of photography such as portraits or macro photography.

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