Access to the main sensor also allows a very fine resolution preview for manual focus confirmation. Using the main imaging sensor allows the use of the potentially more accurate and flexible contrast-detection autofocus system. Although this mirror flapping makes it slower, using the main imaging sensor offers other advantages. Taking a photo requires dropping the mirror again to focus or meter, then lift it again to take the actual exposure. The result is to give the most responsive Live View mode on any contemporary camera meaning that essentially you get the convenience of a compact camera with the speed of focus of a conventional DSLR.Īll other current systems have to flip the mirror up so that the main sensor can produce the live view image.

This means it behaves just like a conventional DSLR when in Live view mode, only flipping the mirror out of the way when you press the shutter button to take the photograph. The advantage of this layout is that, unlike any other current Live View system, the camera can offer live view with the reflex mirror down. Roll your mouse over the above images to see how the light path is redirected between the viewfinder and live view sensor

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