Better for learning about photography, dSLR or Micro 4/3

Question

I am getting frustrated with the limitations of my iPhone camera and my girlfriends's point and shoot. I want to purchase my first serious camera and learn how to take better photos. I don't think the picture quality difference would effect me much, since I have only used point and shoot cameras. I considering the dSLR because the controls might make it easier to switch settings quickly. I was consider a Micro 4/3 or Sony Nex because the small size would make it easier to have it with me and just take more photos.

Answer

Learning-wise the biggest difference is going to be depth of field control due to sensor size. On a micro 4/3's mount you can't get as much control over what portion of the picture is only in focus (subject isolation). The bigger the sensor, the more control. Sony Nex, however, shares the a sensor size with their DSLRs - so there's no difference there I believe.

Beyond that - its an image quality and handling thing mostly. DSLRs are typically faster to operate and faster all around and they're better in low light. Mirrorless cameras are smaller - its a bit of a tradeoff. There's other differences, but I'll leave that to the other question as its not learning related.

I think you'll be able to learn on either and if you think the smaller size will dictate you using it more - get a mirrorless camera (just make sure it has fully manual controls and that you can afford to buy more lenses in the future - don't buy a system you can only afford to get one lens with). The best camera is the one you have with you.

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