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Crop Sensor vs. Full Frame: Which is Right for You?
Crop Sensor vs. Full Frame: Which is Right for You?
by Keenan Hursh
Are you in the market for your next camera? Perhaps you’re looking to justify a purchase you recently made. Or maybe you’d just like to learn more about what types of camera technology are out there. Whatever the reason may be, a conversation that comes up a ton in the photography world is that of crop sensors vs. full frame sensors and it’s certainly not a bad idea to be informed on the key differences between the two.
In today’s world of digital photography, one of the most critical decisions a photographer must make is choosing the type of sensor that will capture their images. The overall size of a sensor and the number of megapixels can greatly alter the way your photos turn out and two of the most common and popular types of sensors currently being used are crop sensors and full frame sensors, each with its own set of advantages and drawbacks.
Today’s article will provide an in-depth exploration of these two sensor types, covering the main talking points as well as the benefits and drawbacks of each, ideally helping you make an informed decision on which is right for you.
Let’s get right into it and discuss everything you need to know in the crop sensor vs. full frame battle.
In today’s world of digital photography, one of the most critical decisions a photographer must make is choosing the type of sensor that will capture their images. The overall size of a sensor and the number of megapixels can greatly alter the way your photos turn out and two of the most common and popular types of sensors currently being used are crop sensors and full frame sensors, each with its own set of advantages and drawbacks.
Today’s article will provide an in-depth exploration of these two sensor types, covering the main talking points as well as the benefits and drawbacks of each, ideally helping you make an informed decision on which is right for you.
Let’s get right into it and discuss everything you need to know in the crop sensor vs. full frame battle.
Understanding the Basics: What is a Sensor?
Before we delve into the differences between crop sensors and full-frame sensors, it's essential to understand the basics of what a sensor is and how it works. Back in the day, before the release of quality digital cameras, all photographers captured their images on film and the size of the film strip largely controlled the resolution and quality of an image.
In a digital camera, the sensor is the modern version of a roll of film and is responsible for capturing the light that forms an image. The sensor is made up of millions of tiny light-sensitive elements known as pixels. These pixels convert light into electrical signals, which are then processed to create the final image. Just like film, the size of the sensor and the number of pixels can greatly change how your image looks and feels.
Before we delve into the differences between crop sensors and full-frame sensors, it's essential to understand the basics of what a sensor is and how it works. Back in the day, before the release of quality digital cameras, all photographers captured their images on film and the size of the film strip largely controlled the resolution and quality of an image.
In a digital camera, the sensor is the modern version of a roll of film and is responsible for capturing the light that forms an image. The sensor is made up of millions of tiny light-sensitive elements known as pixels. These pixels convert light into electrical signals, which are then processed to create the final image. Just like film, the size of the sensor and the number of pixels can greatly change how your image looks and feels.
Crop Sensors
Crop sensors, also known as APS-C sensors, are quite a bit smaller than full-frame sensors. They get their name from the fact that they capture a smaller portion or "crop" of the image compared to full-frame sensors either with a crop factor of 1.5 or 1.6. They are usually 23.6mm wide and 15.6mm tall and are commonly found in entry-level and mid-range DSLR and mirrorless cameras. Let's explore some of the benefits and drawbacks of crop sensors:
Benefits of Crop Sensors:
One of the main benefits that makes crop sensor cameras so attractive to many photographers is cost. Cameras equipped with crop sensors are generally more affordable, making them an excellent choice for beginners or photographers on a budget. And, if you don’t necessarily need all the nicest features out there or a massive sensor then these sensors can deliver some great results at a fraction of the cost.
Another key benefit of crop sensors is that they can give you extra reach, especially when shooting subjects that are quite far away with a telephoto lens. Because of this additional “zoom” many photographers that focus on wildlife will opt to use crop sensor cameras. This additional zoom or extra reach is actually caused by the crop factor itself extending the focal length of your camera by 1.5x. So a 600mm lens would effectively be a 900mm lens with a crop sensor.
A third advantage of crop sensors is that the cameras that house them are often smaller and lighter than many full-frame cameras. This is especially beneficial if you’re traveling or have to carry your gear for longer distances.
Drawbacks of Crop Sensors:
The most talked about “drawback” of crop sensor cameras is probably the fact that they have fewer megapixels and therefore lower image resolution. Personally, I don’t necessarily consider this a drawback as every photographer is different and a very large number of us don’t really need a ton of megapixels. If you’re looking to significantly crop your images or print them quite large, then perhaps this may be a drawback to you otherwise, it’s really just personal preference. So, in my book, this isn’t necessarily a drawback but it’s worth mentioning for the sake of this article.
One legitimate drawback is that crop sensors usually have reduced low-light performance. This is due to the fact that because the sensor is smaller the actual pixels themselves are usually smaller and can’t absorb as much light or information. So if you’re looking to shoot astrophotography or capture images in dark settings a crop sensor may not be the way to go.
Another drawback is that it can be more difficult to achieve a shallower depth of field with crop sensors. This is once again due to the crop factor of 1.5 or 1.6 which effectively increases your depth of field. For instance, an image captured at f/4 on a full frame sensor will have a shallower depth of field or more background blur than an image captured at f/4 on a crop sensor.
And finally, to counteract the extra reach you can achieve with telephoto lenses, you will be limited on the other end of the spectrum. Because of the crop factor, you won’t be able to zoom out to the lowest or widest focal lengths on many lenses. If you’re primarily shooting landscapes or need very wide fields of view, then a crop sensor might not be the best option for you. That being said you can always buy crop sensor-specific lenses that will have accurate focal lengths but the optics usually aren't up to par with full frame lenses.
Crop sensors, also known as APS-C sensors, are quite a bit smaller than full-frame sensors. They get their name from the fact that they capture a smaller portion or "crop" of the image compared to full-frame sensors either with a crop factor of 1.5 or 1.6. They are usually 23.6mm wide and 15.6mm tall and are commonly found in entry-level and mid-range DSLR and mirrorless cameras. Let's explore some of the benefits and drawbacks of crop sensors:
Benefits of Crop Sensors:
One of the main benefits that makes crop sensor cameras so attractive to many photographers is cost. Cameras equipped with crop sensors are generally more affordable, making them an excellent choice for beginners or photographers on a budget. And, if you don’t necessarily need all the nicest features out there or a massive sensor then these sensors can deliver some great results at a fraction of the cost.
Another key benefit of crop sensors is that they can give you extra reach, especially when shooting subjects that are quite far away with a telephoto lens. Because of this additional “zoom” many photographers that focus on wildlife will opt to use crop sensor cameras. This additional zoom or extra reach is actually caused by the crop factor itself extending the focal length of your camera by 1.5x. So a 600mm lens would effectively be a 900mm lens with a crop sensor.
A third advantage of crop sensors is that the cameras that house them are often smaller and lighter than many full-frame cameras. This is especially beneficial if you’re traveling or have to carry your gear for longer distances.
Drawbacks of Crop Sensors:
The most talked about “drawback” of crop sensor cameras is probably the fact that they have fewer megapixels and therefore lower image resolution. Personally, I don’t necessarily consider this a drawback as every photographer is different and a very large number of us don’t really need a ton of megapixels. If you’re looking to significantly crop your images or print them quite large, then perhaps this may be a drawback to you otherwise, it’s really just personal preference. So, in my book, this isn’t necessarily a drawback but it’s worth mentioning for the sake of this article.
One legitimate drawback is that crop sensors usually have reduced low-light performance. This is due to the fact that because the sensor is smaller the actual pixels themselves are usually smaller and can’t absorb as much light or information. So if you’re looking to shoot astrophotography or capture images in dark settings a crop sensor may not be the way to go.
Another drawback is that it can be more difficult to achieve a shallower depth of field with crop sensors. This is once again due to the crop factor of 1.5 or 1.6 which effectively increases your depth of field. For instance, an image captured at f/4 on a full frame sensor will have a shallower depth of field or more background blur than an image captured at f/4 on a crop sensor.
And finally, to counteract the extra reach you can achieve with telephoto lenses, you will be limited on the other end of the spectrum. Because of the crop factor, you won’t be able to zoom out to the lowest or widest focal lengths on many lenses. If you’re primarily shooting landscapes or need very wide fields of view, then a crop sensor might not be the best option for you. That being said you can always buy crop sensor-specific lenses that will have accurate focal lengths but the optics usually aren't up to par with full frame lenses.
Full Frame Sensors
Alright, now let’s talk about full frame sensors. These are often the preferred choice for professional photographers and enthusiasts who demand the highest image quality and versatility. They are named after their size, which closely resembles a 35mm film frame. These sensors are normally 36mm wide and 24mm tall which is quite a bit larger than a crop sensor. Because of this increase in size, manufacturers can fit way more megapixels into the sensor and the pixels themselves are often larger. Let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of full-frame sensors:
Benefits of Full Frame Sensors:
The main, and arguably most noticeable benefit of full frame sensors is their exceptional image quality and ability to capture higher-resolution images. Because these sensors are larger and have more megapixels, they record images in higher resolution. If you plan to significantly crop your images, print them quite large, or just want a higher resolution result, then a full frame sensor is the way to go.
Another key benefit of full frame sensors is that they are often much more sensitive to light allowing them to perform much better in low-light situations. Because the pixels themselves are often larger, they can absorb more light and information. If you want to capture stunning astrophotography images or shoot in dark environments a full frame is probably the way to go.
You also have greater control over the depth of field in your images and, because there isn’t any crop factor influencing this, you can actually achieve a lens's maximum aperture. This is great if you want to portray shallow depths of field, stunning bokeh, or to really isolate your subjects from the background. If this is important to you then a full frame sensor is what you’re looking for. And because you can achieve your lens's maximum aperture this will allow your camera to operate even better in low light conditions.
Additionally, you have the freedom to achieve the lowest or widest focal lengths advertised on full frame lenses. If you’re passionate about shooting landscape images or simply want to achieve very wide fields of view, then a full frame sensor will get the job done.
Drawbacks of Full Frame Sensors:
The most notable “drawback” of full frame sensors has to be cost. This arguably isn’t a drawback as you’re getting a higher performance and more capable piece of tech when you pay more, but regardless the higher price points of full-frame sensors will prevent many photographers from being able to access this technology.
Another potential drawback to consider is that cameras with full frame sensors are often larger and heavier than their crop sensor counterparts. This isn’t as big of a deal these days with incredibly compact mirrorless bodies but the difference between these two sensor types is more noticeable with DSLR cameras. If size and weight are big concerns then some full frame cameras might not be what you’re looking for.
Alright, now let’s talk about full frame sensors. These are often the preferred choice for professional photographers and enthusiasts who demand the highest image quality and versatility. They are named after their size, which closely resembles a 35mm film frame. These sensors are normally 36mm wide and 24mm tall which is quite a bit larger than a crop sensor. Because of this increase in size, manufacturers can fit way more megapixels into the sensor and the pixels themselves are often larger. Let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of full-frame sensors:
Benefits of Full Frame Sensors:
The main, and arguably most noticeable benefit of full frame sensors is their exceptional image quality and ability to capture higher-resolution images. Because these sensors are larger and have more megapixels, they record images in higher resolution. If you plan to significantly crop your images, print them quite large, or just want a higher resolution result, then a full frame sensor is the way to go.
Another key benefit of full frame sensors is that they are often much more sensitive to light allowing them to perform much better in low-light situations. Because the pixels themselves are often larger, they can absorb more light and information. If you want to capture stunning astrophotography images or shoot in dark environments a full frame is probably the way to go.
You also have greater control over the depth of field in your images and, because there isn’t any crop factor influencing this, you can actually achieve a lens's maximum aperture. This is great if you want to portray shallow depths of field, stunning bokeh, or to really isolate your subjects from the background. If this is important to you then a full frame sensor is what you’re looking for. And because you can achieve your lens's maximum aperture this will allow your camera to operate even better in low light conditions.
Additionally, you have the freedom to achieve the lowest or widest focal lengths advertised on full frame lenses. If you’re passionate about shooting landscape images or simply want to achieve very wide fields of view, then a full frame sensor will get the job done.
Drawbacks of Full Frame Sensors:
The most notable “drawback” of full frame sensors has to be cost. This arguably isn’t a drawback as you’re getting a higher performance and more capable piece of tech when you pay more, but regardless the higher price points of full-frame sensors will prevent many photographers from being able to access this technology.
Another potential drawback to consider is that cameras with full frame sensors are often larger and heavier than their crop sensor counterparts. This isn’t as big of a deal these days with incredibly compact mirrorless bodies but the difference between these two sensor types is more noticeable with DSLR cameras. If size and weight are big concerns then some full frame cameras might not be what you’re looking for.
Choosing the Right Sensor for You
So, now that we’ve covered the basics and compared the benefits and drawbacks of both crop sensors and full frame sensors let’s dive into which one is right for you and your photography. There’s a lot to consider here and every photographer is unique with their own set of needs and wants but I’ll do my best to help steer you in the right direction.
In my opinion, I would opt for a crop sensor camera if you’re either a beginner photographer or on a budget and don’t really need an incredibly high number of megapixels. If you’re more of a hobbyist and don’t need to produce the highest-quality images out there then a crop sensor will serve you just fine. I started out with a crop sensor camera and captured many great images over the 5+ years I owned it. Additionally, if you are a wildlife or sports photographer and want to achieve the highest possible focal lengths and zoom, then a crop sensor will work to your benefit. You may not be able to isolate your subjects from the background quite as much but you’ll be able to fill more of your frame with said subjects.
On the other side of things, I would opt for a full frame sensor camera if you aren’t constrained by a budget or if you want to achieve the highest quality and highest resolution images. If you are a serious enthusiast or professional photographer and you really want the most performance out of your camera and lenses then a full frame is probably the way to go.
To wrap things up, the decision between a crop sensor and a full-frame sensor should be based on your specific photography needs, your budget, and ultimately your personal preferences. Both sensor types have their unique strengths and limitations, and understanding these differences will help you make an informed choice that will enhance your photography experience.
Remember that no sensor type is inherently better than the other; it all depends on how you plan to use your camera and what you value most in your photography. Make your choice wisely, and you'll be well on your way to capturing stunning images that reflect your unique vision as a photographer.
I hope this article has been informative and helpful and has helped guide your decision-making process when it comes time to purchase your next camera body.
Until next time!
So, now that we’ve covered the basics and compared the benefits and drawbacks of both crop sensors and full frame sensors let’s dive into which one is right for you and your photography. There’s a lot to consider here and every photographer is unique with their own set of needs and wants but I’ll do my best to help steer you in the right direction.
In my opinion, I would opt for a crop sensor camera if you’re either a beginner photographer or on a budget and don’t really need an incredibly high number of megapixels. If you’re more of a hobbyist and don’t need to produce the highest-quality images out there then a crop sensor will serve you just fine. I started out with a crop sensor camera and captured many great images over the 5+ years I owned it. Additionally, if you are a wildlife or sports photographer and want to achieve the highest possible focal lengths and zoom, then a crop sensor will work to your benefit. You may not be able to isolate your subjects from the background quite as much but you’ll be able to fill more of your frame with said subjects.
On the other side of things, I would opt for a full frame sensor camera if you aren’t constrained by a budget or if you want to achieve the highest quality and highest resolution images. If you are a serious enthusiast or professional photographer and you really want the most performance out of your camera and lenses then a full frame is probably the way to go.
To wrap things up, the decision between a crop sensor and a full-frame sensor should be based on your specific photography needs, your budget, and ultimately your personal preferences. Both sensor types have their unique strengths and limitations, and understanding these differences will help you make an informed choice that will enhance your photography experience.
Remember that no sensor type is inherently better than the other; it all depends on how you plan to use your camera and what you value most in your photography. Make your choice wisely, and you'll be well on your way to capturing stunning images that reflect your unique vision as a photographer.
I hope this article has been informative and helpful and has helped guide your decision-making process when it comes time to purchase your next camera body.
Until next time!
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AUTHOR
AUTHOR
Keenan Hursh is a Photographer, visual designer, and creative story teller based out of Bozeman, Montana. He draws inspiration from his frequent excursions into the natural world and always brings his camera along to capture whatever adventures he finds himself in. Keenan is passionate about documenting and sharing fleeting moments from the natural world and focuses primarily on wildlife, landscape, and adventure photography.
When it comes to gear, he primarily shoots digital with his Canon EOS R5 and EOS 6D mark ii but also has several 35mm film cameras that get out every now and then.
At a very young age, Keenan started bringing a camera along on his excursions and immediately fell in love with the art of photography. He started out with his parent’s cheap point and shoot and has continuously improved his craft and gear refining his shooting style and producing more compelling and intriguing images.
Growing up in the foothills of Boulder, Colorado, surrounded by mountains and wilderness, Keenan has developed a deep passion for many outdoor activities. When he’s not out on a shoot or using his camera, Keenan enjoys skiing, climbing, hiking, backpacking, cycling, whitewater rafting, and paragliding. If he’s outside, away from the distractions of society and civilization, he’s in his happy place.
Keenan studied Emergent Digital Practices at the University of Denver while minoring in Marketing and Entrepreneurship. Since earning his degree in 2019 he was worked with a wide range of clients, companies, and organizations throughout his career. Apart from photography he specializes in content creation, writing, brand development, and graphic design.
You can view Keenan’s portfolio on his website at www.keenanhurshphoto.com
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"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations worldwide.
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Journeys Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLC - Copyright 2024
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