Hybrid cameras, also known as mirror less cameras, are a new strain of camera that combine the compactness of your compact digital camera together with the image quality of a digital single lens reflex camera. The modern hybrid cameras don't have a single lens reflex mirror removing some of the bulk of a DSLR, but have a larger image sensor than your standard compact digital for better photos. A hybrid camera also does not have a normal viewfinder as in a DSLR, but rather uses an LCD screen or an electronic viewfinder that can be purchased separately. The hybrid cameras have interchangeable lenses similar to a DSLR, making them versatile enough to get many types of shots. They also take incredible HD video in 780p or 1080p format.

Hybrid cameras are the answer to that middle market of customers who do not want to put money into luxury DSLRs, but would like to get better quality pictures than a compact digital. The hybrids are compact enough to transport around without difficulty. On many models, you are able to instantly record HD video without dealing with a menu. Most models run in the $300 - $1,000 range, which makes them very reasonably priced to many people.

Olympus and Panasonic use what's called a micro four thirds format for interchangeable lenses. It is an attempt to make a standard format for digital camera lenses making it possible to exchange with advanced DSLR lenses. Micro four thirds refer to the ratio of the image sensor, which is a 4 X 3. This dimension is smaller than an ordinary 35mm, but about Ten times larger than a typical digital compact. The increased size and quality enable the photographer to shoot in lower light without worrying about graininess associated with smaller image sensors.

Many major camera brands have come out with their own version of the hybrid camera. Panasonic led the way with the Lumix G1, then came Olympus with the PEN series. Sony came out with the NEX 3 and 5. Nikon and Canon have promises to come out with hybrids very soon.

With all of the hype surrounding the modern hybrid cameras, it remains to be seen if the market for this type of camera will take off. Sales have steadily increased since 2008 and it's predicted to take off by 2012.

Hybrids provide you with the best of both worlds. They're compact enough to carry around easily and powerful enough to take great photos.