From Digital Camera World · · 50s
Viewfinder vs rear LCD: How you compose your shot
Photographers debate viewfinder vs rear LCD for composition, but end product matters most.
In brief
Photographers debate viewfinder vs rear LCD for composition, but end product matters most. Photographers should focus on image quality over camera composition method. Originally reported by Digital Camera World.
Viewfinder benefits
Viewfinders stabilize cameras, reduce shake, and work well in bright conditions.
“nobody has ever looked at a photograph and gone: i can see it a mile off; you didn't look through the viewfinder”
Rear LCD advantages
Rear lcds help landscape and portrait photographers by reducing tension and improving smiles.
“looking through the rear lcd so they can see a big smile on your face and you can readily look up”
Personal preference
Photographers use rear lcds for composition when conditions allow and viewfinders for stability.
“i actually prefer composing images using the rear lcd when conditions are right”
Sports and wildlife use
Sports and wildlife photographers use viewfinders because cameras are too heavy to hold away from face.
“for sports and wildlife i always look through the viewfinder because the setup is too heavy”
Composition method choice
Photographers choose composition method based on camera stability and comfort during shooting.
“i will occasionally pull back from the evf and look at the rear lcd”
End product matters
Photographers should focus on image quality rather than camera composition method.
“your audience only cares about the end product if it's a good photo it's a good photo”
The headline
Photographers should focus on image quality over camera composition method.
