Can you pixel-peep the difference between 6 popular cameras?

by Liam McCabe

posted Tuesday, April 8, 2014 at 2:10 PM EDT

 
 

Pixel peeping is an honored pastime around these parts. But when identical photos from six popular cameras are randomized and shrunk down to typical viewing sizes, would you be able to tell which shots came from which cameras?

If you’re up for the challenge, head over to The Slanted Lens. While filming a lighting tutorial, photographer Jay P Morgan took some time to shoot a scene using a iPhone 5C, an iPad (either the 3rd or 4th-generation model, he doesn’t specify), a Nikon D800, a Sony A7, a Canon 5D Mk. III, and a Canon 1D C. When applicable, he shot with 100mm lenses, set the camera profiles to neutral, and used available light plus reflectors. Oh yeah, and a smoke machine—just watch the video.

This guessing game obviously isn’t scientific—the methodology isn’t precise, the images are tiny, and of course it’s easy to tell which two images were taken with small-sensor cameras. Morgan’s own takeaways are up for debate as well. Suggesting a Canon Rebel instead of an iPhone as a family snapshot camera misses the point entirely. But for trained eyes, it’s a fun, quick exercise. Post how many you guessed correctly in the comments below—no cheating.

(Via SLR Lounge)