How to Choose the Right Lenses For A Mirrorless Camera?

17 minutes read

When choosing the right lenses for a mirrorless camera, there are a few factors to consider. First, you should determine what type of photography you will be doing most often, whether it's portraits, landscapes, sports, etc. This will help you decide on the focal length and aperture of the lens you need.


Next, think about the native lens options available for your specific camera model. Some mirrorless cameras have a limited selection of lenses, so you'll want to make sure there are options that meet your needs.


It's also important to consider the size and weight of the lenses, especially if you plan on traveling or carrying your camera around for long periods of time. Some mirrorless cameras are designed to be compact and lightweight, so you'll want to choose lenses that complement this feature.


Lastly, consider your budget. Lenses can be a significant investment, so it's important to balance quality with cost. Research and compare different brands and models to find the best option within your price range.


Overall, choosing the right lenses for your mirrorless camera is a personal decision that will depend on your specific needs and preferences as a photographer. Take the time to do your research and test out different lenses before making a final decision.

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 consult expert reviews and recommendations when choosing lenses for a mirrorless camera?

  1. Research online: Begin by searching for expert reviews and recommendations on websites such as DPReview, Photography Blog, and Digital Camera World. These websites often have detailed reviews of various lenses for mirrorless cameras, including their performance, image quality, and overall value.
  2. Watch video reviews: Many photography experts and enthusiasts also post video reviews of lenses on platforms like YouTube. Watching these reviews can give you a better understanding of how a particular lens performs in real-world situations.
  3. Consult photography forums: Join photography forums such as Photography Stack Exchange or FredMiranda to ask for recommendations from experienced photographers who have used specific lenses for mirrorless cameras. They can provide valuable insights and feedback based on their own experiences.
  4. Visit camera stores: If possible, visit a camera store to try out different lenses for your mirrorless camera. Speak to the store staff, who may be able to provide recommendations based on your photography needs and budget.
  5. Check customer reviews: Don't forget to read customer reviews on websites like Amazon or B&H Photo Video to see what other users have to say about the lenses you are considering. Pay attention to both positive and negative reviews to get a well-rounded perspective.
  6. Consider rental services: Some camera rental services allow you to try out lenses before purchasing them. Renting a lens can give you a hands-on experience and help you make an informed decision before investing in a new lens for your mirrorless camera.


How to determine the focal length you need for your mirrorless camera lenses?

To determine the focal length you need for your mirrorless camera lenses, consider the type of photography you will be doing and the specific focal length requirements for your desired subjects. Here are some steps to help you determine the focal length for your lenses:

  1. Understand the basics of focal length: Focal length is the distance between the lens and the image sensor when the subject is in focus. A shorter focal length (e.g. 10-35mm) is considered wide-angle and is ideal for capturing landscapes, architecture, and group shots. A longer focal length (e.g. 50-200mm) is considered telephoto and is suitable for capturing distant subjects and portraits.
  2. Identify your photography style: Consider the type of photography you will be doing most often. Are you interested in landscapes, portraits, wildlife, or sports photography? Different focal lengths are better suited for different types of photography.
  3. Assess your camera's sensor size: The sensor size of your camera will affect the effective focal length of your lenses. For example, a crop sensor camera will multiply the focal length of the lens by a certain factor (e.g. 1.5x for most APS-C sensors), resulting in a narrower field of view compared to a full-frame sensor.
  4. Experiment with different focal lengths: If you already have a mirrorless camera, consider renting or borrowing lenses with different focal lengths to test them out and see which works best for your shooting style.
  5. Consult with other photographers: Talk to other photographers who specialize in the type of photography you are interested in to get their recommendations on focal lengths for lenses.


By considering these factors and experimenting with different focal lengths, you can determine the focal length you need for your mirrorless camera lenses to achieve the best results in your photography.


How to factor in the weight and size of lenses when selecting them for a mirrorless camera?

When selecting lenses for a mirrorless camera, it is important to consider the weight and size of the lenses to ensure a comfortable shooting experience and optimal balance with the camera body. Here are some tips for factoring in the weight and size of lenses when selecting them for a mirrorless camera:

  1. Consider the size and weight of the camera body: Before selecting a lens, take into account the size and weight of your mirrorless camera body. A larger, heavier lens may be too cumbersome and unbalanced when paired with a smaller, lighter camera body.
  2. Evaluate your shooting needs: Think about the type of photography you plan to do most frequently with your mirrorless camera. For example, if you will be shooting landscapes or portraits, you may want a smaller, lighter lens that is easy to carry and use for extended periods. On the other hand, if you will be shooting wildlife or sports, you may prioritize a larger, heavier lens with longer zoom capabilities.
  3. Check the lens specifications: Look at the technical specifications of the lenses you are considering, including the weight and dimensions. Some lenses may be compact and lightweight, while others may be larger and heavier due to advanced features such as a wider aperture or longer focal length.
  4. Consider the balance and handling: When testing out lenses, pay attention to how they feel when attached to your mirrorless camera. Make sure the combination feels balanced and comfortable to hold, especially for longer shooting sessions. A well-balanced setup can help reduce strain on your hands and arms while shooting.
  5. Explore alternative options: If the size and weight of a particular lens are a concern, consider alternative options such as prime lenses, which tend to be smaller and lighter than zoom lenses. You may also want to look into lens adapters that allow you to use lenses from other camera systems, providing more flexibility in your lens selection.


By considering the weight and size of lenses in relation to your mirrorless camera and shooting needs, you can make an informed decision on selecting lenses that will enhance your photography experience.

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