Brian Jeffrey
There’s intense competition among Vietnamese journalists for high-end camera gear. Those who can afford it invest heavily, often spending hundreds of millions of dong—sometimes reaching over half a billion—to secure top-of-the-line photography equipment.
Two decades ago, the introduction of early digital cameras like the Nikon D1 and the Canon EOS DCS 3 (released in 1995) was groundbreaking. However, these models are now outdated and ineffective, producing just 1.3 megapixels of image quality.
Since then, technology has advanced significantly. Professional photographers now regard the Nikon D6 and Canon 1Dx Mark III as leading cameras for image excellence, even though they are quickly being replaced by advanced and nimble mirrorless options.
Many photojournalists still have a soft spot for DSLRs due to their solid construction and dependable performance. However, the emergence of mirrorless cameras is prompting change. Current favorites include the Canon EOS R1 (priced at approximately $6,299, or around 163 million VND), the Nikon Z9 ($4,996, approximately 129 million VND), and older flagship models such as the Nikon D6 and Canon 1Dx Mark III (both around 168 million VND each).
Nguyen Hai, a photojournalist with Lao Dong, operates two Canon models: the R3 and R6, along with various lenses totaling about 500 million VND. He acknowledges the significant expense but believes the silent shooting capability and adaptability are worth it.
Hoang Giang Huy from VnExpress initially invested nearly 150 million VND in a Nikon D6 but soon moved to the mirrorless Nikon Z9, with his total expenses reaching around 600 million VND after acquiring additional lenses.
Pham Quang Vinh of Dai Doan Ket has shifted to a Canon R5 (body priced at 65 million VND) after retiring his Canon 5D Mark IV and 1Dx Mark II DSLRs.
Journalist Tien Tuan (Dan Tri) utilizes both camera types, emphasizing the advantages of mirrorless units: they offer faster frame rates, compact designs, and features like flip screens and silent operation. Yet he points out that DSLRs excel in lower light conditions, particularly in autofocus reliability. “While mirrorless cameras are quick and lightweight, DSLRs still shine in critical areas,” he remarked, highlighting the nighttime autofocus and color depth of the Nikon D6.
Thuận Thắng (Znews) remains committed to DSLRs, arguing that mirrorless options can’t replicate the “moment-capturing” experience provided by robust cameras like the Nikon D5, D6, or Canon 1Dx Mark III.
The first mirrorless camera, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1, made its debut in 2008. Although initially received with skepticism, mirrorless technology has since gained dominance. Canon announced in 2021 that its EOS-1D X Mark III would be its last flagship DSLR, while Nikon indicated in mid-2022 that it would discontinue certain DSLR lines, completely ceasing production by May 2025.
This marks a significant transition for DSLR enthusiasts. Major models like the Nikon D6 and Canon 1Dx Mark III may not receive successors.
Nguyen Hai shared that his mirrorless setup enhances productivity, particularly in quiet shooting scenarios. “It’s lighter and quicker in focusing, making it ideal for contemporary journalism,” he noted.
Huy and Vinh compared this technological evolution to the shift from gasoline to electric vehicles. “Mirrorless options provide high resolution, rapid shooting, and a compact form factor,” Vinh stated, although he mentioned concerns over color accuracy and sensor susceptibility to stage lasers.
Online marketplaces continue to offer both DSLR and mirrorless equipment. Used DSLRs are significantly discounted; for example, a Nikon D5, which once retailed for 150 million VND, can now be found for around 30 million VND, provided it has captured roughly 50,000 images.
DSLRs (Digital Single Lens Reflex) utilize a mirror mechanism to channel light into an optical viewfinder, while mirrorless cameras bear a closer resemblance to smartphones, featuring digital previews without a mirror assembly.
Despite significant advancements, mirrorless systems have not yet surpassed DSLRs in terms of overall image quality and user experience. Their primary advantage lies in shooting speed, with some models reaching up to 60 frames per second, far exceeding the 16 frames per second capabilities of DSLRs.
Nevertheless, due to their reliability and image fidelity, DSLRs continue to be a trusted option for many professionals.
