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Whether one likes to believe it or not, older cameras, especially those launched over the past decade, continue to be popular among varied photographers. The reasons for such purchases may vary, from price points to some feeling that older technology is still perfect even today. And we do agree with the latter, as we have repeatedly seen older camera models working perfectly fine in varied scenarios. To further prove our point, we like to bring forward data published by Bird Lovers International, a Chinese bird photography organization. The top camera on the list may surprise you.
According to Weibo (via DigiCame Info), Chinese bird photographers are using the following brands and cameras for their endeavors:
Brands
- Canon: 56.5%
- Nikon: 29.25%
- Sony: 18.22%
- Others: 3.45%
As always, Canon is still one of the most sought-after cameras among photographers. The reason could be rebates, better functions, brand loyalty, or even a better brand presence than other cameras. Now, let’s have a look at the cameras:
- Canon EOS R5 (11.75%)
- Sony a1 (10.23%)
- Nikon Z9 (9.12%)
- Canon EOS R3 (7.78%)
- Nikon Z8 (6.06%)
- Canon EOS R7 (5.79%)
- Canon EOS 1DX Mk III (5.16%)
- Canon EOS 1DX Mk II (4.05%)
- Nikon D850 (3.17%)
- Sony a9 II (2.96%)
Of the several cameras, the 1DX series and Nikon D850 are the only DSLRs in the list, which is largely dominated by mirrorless. Furthermore, of the 10 spots, Cnaon took five, with Sony coming in two and Nikon with three. None of the cameras are new, with some being over a decade old and others being launched in 2022. This means these purchases were largely made before the pandemic, with a few during or after. This also showcases that each camera has great autofocus capabilities despite being launched a while back, proving that it’s not about the gear alone but who is yielding it.
The Sony a1 has some superb capabilities, and so do the Z9, the R5, and the R3. Each of these cameras has strong autofocus performance, great weather sealing, good high ISO results, as well as sharp image quality. Furthermore, they are all high-end full-frame cameras, with the exception of EOS R7. However, an APS-C camera is quite recommended for wildlife photography as it offers more focal range, a lower price point, and good burst shooting speed with tracking.
The EOS 5 did receive flak for warming up; however, our test found different results. Other than that, the camera is pretty great, as it offers fantastic autofocus, which became much better after the firmware update. The color rendition is also great, and one can shoot up to ISO6400 without much challenge. You can push further if you want a grainy look, which one can see with analog cameras.
This chart further proves that the real battle is always between Nikon, Canon, and Sony, with companies like Fujifilm, Panasonic, and OM System being a niche in a large market. The data further reveals why camera manufacturers need to listen to the needs of photographers, as they still make up a large chunk of users. If the newer cameras are not able to give this, then the older cameras will continue to sell.
