jimpitt

Thank you for your comment, sir CHG.

I chose mirrorless in a compact DX size and, if it works out, I will get a full-frame mirrorless later. It IS the latest technology which I am sure I will appreciate. My option was to keep the D500, sell the two heavy zoom F lenses, get one D-type lightweight zoom, and continue on with DSLR technology. I chose mirrorless instead.

As for the guy who says I made a mistake selling the D500, two local retail camera stores in my area said that the DSLR format is dead and used prices will plummet. No more new bodies or lenses will be introduced or updated by the big three. Two on-line east coast big stores said exactly the same thing.
I just purchased the Nikon Zfc, a cousin to the Z50, because I liked the "retro" silver metal look and the statistics are identical to the Z50. The Sony compacts were my other option, but I have been a "Nikon loyalist" since my first FTN in 1970.

CHG_CANON Loc: the Windy City

The final DSLR models will retain their value the longest. Whether you need one (any DSLR) and will continue to shoot one, each has their own decisions to make. The D500, specifically, has a lot of technology, possibly more than you need? I think the D7500 is a better choice for advanced Nikon shooter, especially those that don't specialize in sports and wildlife. I have the same opinion for the D750 vs the D850 or D780, when it comes to full-frame options.

What the DSLRinosaurs deny is mirrorless cameras are overall better. Granted, an entry level MILC probably doesn't replace the top tier DSLRs for highly specialized uses. But, for the things that MILC does better, the entry levels are just plain and overall better than DSLRs, every single DSLR model. Denying this just denies the basic facts of photography in August 2023.

mikee

For travel I leave my D500, D4s and associated lenses at home and just take my phone and Sony rx10iv.

CHG_CANON Loc: the Windy City

I prefer my pocket-sized G9XII, over my phone, but for the same reasons of not needing the size and weight of an interchangeable lens camera for just casual shooting.

Spirit Vision Photography Loc: Behind a Camera.

🙄

Hal Masover Loc: Iowa and Florida

I very much empathize with this decision but I made a different one. My first inclination was to take the best small lightweight camera I have, which is a Sony NEX6. But then I realized that if I am going someplace that I might never return to, shouldn't I be taking pictures with my best camera? And that is what I settled on. Walking up and down the hills of Lisbon with a Nikon D750 and a zoom lens did create some stress on my 72 year old back, but it was definitely worth it. I plan to continue to travel that way, inconvenient though it is.

I have found that a tripod is a bit too much and sometimes a problem as many venues won't let you bring them in. So, kick up the ISO and shoot at a fast enough shutter speed to deal with camera shake. It works well enough though it makes me wonder if a newer camera that handles noise better is in my near future. :)

JD750 Loc: SoCal

But of course!! That's always the case else why would anyone spend $$$ on a new camera gear when he old gear is working fine. ;)

DaveyDitzer Loc: Western PA

But, for the things that MILC does better, the entry levels are just plain and overall better than DSLRs, every single DSLR model. Denying this just denies the basic facts of photography in August 2023.[/quote]

And here's the rub. Does what the MILC does better necessary for my photography? For me and me alone, the answer is probably "no" at this point; and my DSLRs have more MTF shutter clicks available that I have years to click them! That said, I did buy a Zfc because, with the 40mm f2, it reminds me of my first Nikon FM - light, compact and fun to hold and shoot.

JD750 Loc: SoCal

I think for hobbyists, and prosumers the bottom line is "shoot with the camera that you like" and most of all, have fun.

jcboy3

Yes. You are compromising quality.

Shooting full frame is compromising quality. There's a reason people pay the big bucks for medium format.

If you want the ultimate in travel friendly, look at 1" sensors with fixed lenses.

Or consider micro four thirds. But I think they've also given up on truly compact due to 1" sensor competition.