Vlogging has been trending all around the world and with everyone getting into exploring this new trend, the need to engage with the audience is stronger than ever. Having a good camera and understanding your gear is what eventually leads to better quality videos and engaging content. Also as vlogging is a one man show, you should really be aware of all the technicalities of your camera to bring the use up to an optimal level.
Camera sensor size is a noteworthy aspect of your camera that should be taken into consideration while buying a camera. For beginners especially, it is very important to be aware of your camera sensor size as a lot depends on it. It is an important element of your camera that determines the image and video quality, depth of field control and your camera’s performance in low light situations.
What is camera sensor size?
The camera sensor size is a very important element inside your camera that controls the image quality and determines the extent to which your camera can capture different kinds of images. There exists a misconception that larger the camera sensor size the better it is. But this is not true and you will learn all about it later in this article.
It is the part of your camera that detects light and captures an image. This makes it responsible for the image quality in different light conditions as well. Which camera sensor size, smaller or bigger, will be suitable for you all depends on the creative needs and type of vlogging that it is used for.
Why are camera sensor sizes important?
Think of the camera sensor as a solar panel that is sensitive to light, camera sensors are like that they are sensitive to light and capture light to create an image. You can predict the image quality of your camera just by knowing your camera’s sensor size. Therefore, one of the most important things to consider while buying a camera is to consider the camera sensor size.
Now, if you have in mind why a full frame camera sensor is not always the best, then here is why. We will make it simple. A bigger camera sensor size means a deeper field of control whereas a smaller sensor size means shallow depth of field control.
On the other hand small camera sensor sizes allow for better zoom and detailing. Additionally they are compact and less expensive.Therefore, for some types of vlogging needs a bigger sensor size is suitable whereas for others a smaller one is the right option.
Impact Of Camera Sensor On Vlogging
Let’s now take a look at the different camera sensor sizes and how they impact vlogging.
1. Full-frame sensor
The full frame sensor approximately measures 36mm × 24mm, which is very close to a 35mm film frame. Full-frame sensors are well known for their excellent performance in low-light conditions. They provide superior image quality thanks to their large pixels that can capture more light. Also, these are ideal for vloggers who are more into cinematic and professional vlogging as the full frame sensor provides exceptional depth of control and dynamic range. These might be a bit expensive but are worth it for the professional vloggers.
2. APS-C sensor
Now coming to the APS-C sensors these measure approximately 23.6mm × 15.6mm, which is smaller than the full-frame ones. It does not however mean that they are inferior in performance to the full-frame ones. They exhibit a crop factor of 1.5X. These sensors have their own speciality and are quite popular among the vloggers. It is not only because these are affordable and lightweight, but it is also because these are useful for most vlogging situations and genres. Most DSLRs and mirrorless cameras are equipped with these sensors. They offer great image quality and depth of field control but unlike full frame sensors, the APS-C sensor might not be as efficient to use in low-light scenarios.
3. Micro four thirds sensor (MFT)
The Micro Four Third sensor has approximate measures of 17.3mm × 13.0mm, exhibiting a crop factor of 2X and it is the smallest of the other two sensor sizes. These are mostly used by vloggers who are always on the go and require something that is pretty handy and compact, yet offers good image quality. This one in comparison with the full frame sensor, also does not perform as well in low-light situations.
This is ideal for travel vlogging so vloggers who are always on the go should consider this option. Also, these are pretty handy and the zoom power is exceptional.
4. One-inch sensor
The one inch camera sensor size is about 13.2mm × 8.8mm and are found in many high-end cameras. These are very compact and quite suitable for travel vlogging. The one inch camera sensor size comes with a crop factor of 2.7X. The quality of image these ones exhibit is somewhere in between that of entry level cameras and DSLRs or mirrorless cameras. This makes them very suitable for not so professional vlogging and on the go vloggers.
Conclusion
Each camera sensor size caters to different vlogging and filming needs. Hence, it’s important to get one that is more suited to your personal vlogging style. However, beginners should definitely start with a smaller camera sensor size such as the APS-C whereas if you are a pro then go on with a full frame camera sensor size. Also, another important thing you will learn through experience is that for night type photography or filming and for landscapes a full frame camera sensor is ideal. But start slow and with time and experience you will yourself learn if your work requires you to use a full frame or bigger camera sensor size or not. If you feel like even your APS-C sensor or the MFT one works well then no need to spend your money on a rather expensive bigger sensor size camera. Moreover, if you need more zoom power and compactness then go for an MFT or one-inch camera sensor size. These are the best ones for those who are into vlogging just for fun and not so professional type. Nevertheless, whichever you choose, make the experience worthwhile and enjoyable.