Could a DX format camera be used for professional use?

[Er Chitara]

It's kind of simple. When comparing same generation FX and DX, the FX sensor will produce better image quality due to having better dynamic range

There's hardly half a stop difference in DR between the D750 and its contemporary DX companion, the D7200.

The difference (according to the reliable charts at Bill Claff's site) is only below 1/2 stop at base ISO (100), and is almost 1 stop at higher ISO's.

Up to 800 ISO (which is where normally I would be bothered by DR) there's a 0.6 stop difference, IIRC

Above this, either I'm not very concerned with DR because it's dark and usually there's not much DR to be captured, or I provide more light.

Not to say that there's no difference, of course it is there. Just, it's not something that would make me feel the urge to go FX.

 

[Ironfilm]

DX today is waaaaaaaaaaaay better than the best FX was only a few short years ago

And heck, lots of pros even using the "smaller" MFT system as well!

You'll be perfectly more than fine using cameras like the D500/D7500/D7200 on professional shoots.

 

[Andrew in Norway]

I use two D500's as I have no FX body. Four of my six lenses are DX lenses too. The images are normally used online or if printed, on brochures. The largest image on a brochure is A3, but most are printed up smaller than that. I feel that DX is up to producing acceptable images for this purpose.

It is the photographer behind the camera that counts, not what he or she is taking pictures with. My clients must be happy as I get repeat orders.

By the way, I am not a full time pro, but I do earn money from photography.

 

[sovelo2002]

[No message]

 

[john isaacs]

Hi, I shoot photos as hobby and I was looking into some 'D500 vs D750' articles around the world, then I fell into some concern whether 'full frame = professional'.

In many forums I can see that DX formats a recommended for entry level or hobby photographers whereas FX formats are for semi-pro or professional uses.

In short, are photos taken from DX format really inadequate for professional uses or is it the matter that generally FX format bodies has better functionality and/or usability?

My idea is that even when FF format DSLR didn't come out to world, professional photographers of that time would had been using cameras with smaller sensors. I think I understand the difference between sensor sizes and I think the difference between sensors are smaller than other factors(digital retouching, lights, and so on).

If I have chance I would like to hear ideas from professional photographers(photographer as a job). Thank you!

1. If you are a pro, then you can use whatever does the job.

2. If you want to become a pro, then you should use gear that distinguishes you from the pack. Usually, the biggest and most expensive gear you can handle/afford. Be sure to have lots of attachments.

The easy part of being a pro is taking pictures. The hard part is finding/convincing people to pay for your work or product.

 

[StanyBuyle]

Re: Could a DX format camera be used for professional use?

Of course!

After thousands of pictures with D5, D850 and D500 I prefer D500 for nature and wildlife, by far.
Reasons are :

• TMHO D500 IQ is significantly better than D850 cropped to DX size.
• I prefer D500 crop factor advantage over D5 for wildlife. I don't want too carry heavier lenses than 200-500 or 500 PF.
• D500 has native 10fps vs 7fps for D850 and 9 fps with expensive and heavy battery pack.
• D500 body size and button layout is perfect for me.
• ….

Kindest regards,
Stany

--
I like better one decent picture in a day than 10 bad ones in a second.
Registered on Dpreview since 2003.

 

[richiebee]

Hi, I shoot photos as hobby and I was looking into some 'D500 vs D750' articles around the world, then I fell into some concern whether 'full frame = professional'.

In many forums I can see that DX formats a recommended for entry level or hobby photographers whereas FX formats are for semi-pro or professional uses.

In short, are photos taken from DX format really inadequate for professional uses or is it the matter that generally FX format bodies has better functionality and/or usability?

My idea is that even when FF format DSLR didn't come out to world, professional photographers of that time would had been using cameras with smaller sensors. I think I understand the difference between sensor sizes and I think the difference between sensors are smaller than other factors(digital retouching, lights, and so on).

If I have chance I would like to hear ideas from professional photographers(photographer as a job). Thank you!

I use a D500 regularly for professional work. In fact, in the theatre, it's my favourite camera. I also shoot more with the D500 than my D850 at most of the events I cover (I'm usually taking both). I generally prefer full frame for portraiture, but that's mostly because of the environments in which I shoot (limited space on location), and the style of images, my team prefers to work with (shallow depth of field). DX doesn't make this impossible, but FX makes it easier.