A viewfinder has several advantages, but many people don't take the time to learn to use them. Camera makers build what people will buy.
Soon after digital cameras became popular; camera makers added little LCD screens on the back. They were first put there to review the shots already taken.
The reviewing screen also worked well for very close shots of flowers... But soon people started using the little reviewing screens to shoot with.
They work fine for many shots, but can be difficult to see in bright light. Also as the light level diminishes any good camera compensates with longer shutter speeds (and lens opening). If the camera moves during a longer exposure there will be blur. When holding the camera out away from your body it is more difficult to hold it still.
Holding a camera out in front of you, when you shoot a picture, is like shooting a handgun compared to shooting a rifle.
Most people didn't understand it was causing them to sometimes make more fuzzy pictures. Shooting this way seemed easier, the image looked nice on that cute little screen, so it became popular. (Some hold movie cameras this way, and now only high-end movie cameras have eye-level finders.)
The public likes bigger screens, less expensive, and smaller cameras. In order to put the biggest possible screen on the smallest possible camera, and probably to cut cost, the camera makers began to leave off the viewfinder.
If you buy one of these cameras, your only choice is to hold it out in front of you and view the image on the screen to shoot pictures.
In less than bright light, shooting with the camera out away from the body can lead to more camera shake and less sharp images.
Good news! The camera companies have adding image stabilization. Image stabilization does not completely eliminate blur, but it helps.
Everyone can expect to get sharper pictures, even under some low light conditions. Those who learn how to shoot a camera properly expect even better results. YEA!
A skilled photographer shoots somewhat like a rifle shooter.
If there is anything to rest on, or lean on, use it to steady you and the camera. If no rest is available, tuck the elbows in tight against the body and squeeze a little.
With the camera held against the eyebrow, hold the breath, and carefully squeeze. Continue to hold steady until the shutter has closed. NOTE: If you don't have a viewfinder do the same as closely as possible.
More good news! You can still find reasonably priced, wildlife cameras with viewfinders, telephoto lens, and image stabilization.
They will work great for all but the most serious photographers. They make it easier to take good sharp photos. With skill, enough light, and image stabilization, it is now easier to use powerful telephoto lenses without a tripod. Most of the pictures on this site were taken with mine.
"All is well, when it ends well."
Click to shop! This is a new version of my camera.
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