Should You Really Buy a Large Sensor Camera for Better Dynamic Range?

Introduction

• Presenter: Thomas Eisel, professional photographer from Vienna, Austria
• Purpose: To bust myths about the necessity of large sensor cameras for better dynamic range using factual data

Main Arguments

Comparison of Sensor Sizes and Dynamic Range

• Common belief: Large sensor cameras have better dynamic range
• Investigating two key aspects:
  1. Difference in dynamic range between small and large sensor cameras
  2. Impact of dynamic range differences on photographic practice

Data Source for Comparison

• Source: Photons to Photos
  • Specializes in testing camera sensors
  • Focuses on photographic dynamic range (practical use) vs. engineering dynamic range (theoretical max)

Historical Comparison

• Nikon D2H (2003): APS-C sensor, 7 stops of dynamic range at ISO 200
• Canon 5D Classic (2005): Full frame, 8.34 stops of dynamic range
• Conclusion: Small improvement in dynamic range from APS-C to full frame (1 stop)
• Olympus OMD M5 Mark I (2012): Micro four-thirds, 9.27 stops of dynamic range
• Nikon D800 (2012): Full frame, 11.4 stops of dynamic range
• Conclusion: Significant improvement in dynamic range over time

Modern Comparisons

• Canon 5D Mark IV: 10.83 stops of dynamic range
• Sony A9 Mark II: 10.9 stops of dynamic range
• Pentax K1 Mark II: 11.6 stops of dynamic range
• OM System OM1: Micro four-thirds, 9.5 stops of dynamic range
• Conclusion: Modern full frame cameras hover around 11-12 stops of dynamic range

Medium Format Cameras

• Fuji GFX 100: 12.3 stops of dynamic range
• Phase One IQ4: 13.33 stops of dynamic range
• Comparison: Very high-end medium format offers slightly better (2 stops) dynamic range at a high cost (€40,000)

Practical Implications

• Real-World Requirements:
  • Evenly lit scenes: 4 stops of dynamic range
  • Most challenging lighting (32:1 ratio): 9 stops of dynamic range
  • Most modern cameras can handle up to 9 stops
  • Older cameras might need more bracketing for high dynamic range scenes

Bracketing and Post-Processing

• Bracketing shots can extend dynamic range, especially useful in landscape and architecture photography
• More dynamic range in sensors allows for larger bracketing steps
• Older Cameras: Require smaller bracketing steps (e.g., 1 stop)

Raising ISO and Dynamic Range

• Higher ISO reduces dynamic range
• Tripods and stabilization systems can mitigate the need for high ISO except in action photography

Conclusion

• Difference in dynamic range between old and new or small and large sensor cameras is minimal for most practical purposes
• Bracketing can compensate for lower dynamic range
• Dynamic range should not be the sole factor for buying a new camera

Final Thoughts

• Thomas invites viewers to watch his in-depth video on dynamic range
• Encourages subscribing and following on social media

Note: These notes are structured to provide a concise summary of the key points discussed in the lecture by Thomas Eisel on the topic of camera sensor sizes and dynamic range.