But, many professional photographers prefer to use a camera’s viewfinder.
We explain the benefits and disadvantages of each.
Overall Findings
Only shows 90-95 percent of an image.
Most closely matches what human eye sees.
Easier to use while supporting camera.
Less strain on battery.
Displays the entire frame that the sensors capture.
More convenient than a viewfinder.
Offers access to the menu and quick photo review.
LCD screens have advantages, but so do optical viewfinders.
Unlike the optical viewfinder, the LCD screen displays the entire frame that the sensors capture.
Optical viewfinders, even on a professional level DSLR, only show 90-95 percent of the image.
You lose a small percentage on the edges of the image.
Viewfinder Pros and Cons
Can hold the camera steadier.
Doesn’t drain the battery as much.
Offers a more precise view.
Can be very small.
More difficult to see through if you wear glasses.
That way, it’s possible for you to support and steady the camera and lens with your hands.
You get a sharper and more accurate view of your image by using the viewfinder.
LCD Pros and Cons
Bigger viewing area.
Can instantly playback a shot.
Can overexpose the image.
Harder to view in bright sunlight.
The biggest drawback with LCD screens is probably shooting in sunlight.
All you see are reflections off the screen.
Also, the crystals contained within LCD screens tend to flare in bright sunlight, making the situation worse.
When you use the LCD screen this way, you often end up with a blurry image.
Another significant issue is battery life.
Using the LCD screen to compose shots drains the camera batteries more quickly than using the viewfinder.
Which Should You Choose?
Most overexpose an image by as much as one full stop.
So, in most cases, it’s best to use the viewfinder.
But, if you like the convenience of an LCD, or you wear glasses, use the LCD.
It’s mostly a matter of personal preference.
