Canon EOS 5D Mark II Review – Full Frame Digital SLR Camera

June 2, 2009

After the block buster launch of the world’s first “compact” full frame digital SLR ever, Canon has once again emerged in the market with yet another mind blowing product i.e., the new Canon EOS 5D Mark II. With an amazing 21.1 MP CMOS sensor, it presents a much larger ISO range of 100-6400, which is expandable to L: 50, H1:12800 and H2:25600, thus proving to be the ultimate preference of camera lovers.

Brought in the market in mid September 2008, the camera wins the show due to its high quality video production supported by the Live Video Mode; it makes High Definition videos at a resolution 1080 at 30 fps that makes the image look so real. The combined functions of DIGIC 4 and CMOS sensor provides a detailed and fantastic imaging at 3.9 frames per second, which goes maximum up to 310 frames. The CMOS sensor will allow more light to enter the lens thus helps lowering the noise ratio in the entire ISO range. And to add a cherry on the top, the sensor provides the same magnitude as that of a 35mm frame film. And the lenses produce a wide angle so you don’t have to change the angle of the camera lens as observed in small cameras. It provides an outstanding 98% coverage in full format frames.

The DIGIC 4 processor enables you to film without any break for longer durations and at a faster pace in the JPEG format. It is equipped with a 14-bit analogue to digital conversation that is responsible for giving a smooth transition for objects having a single tone for example a lake or sea and ensures an efficient color interpretation.

EOS 5D Mark II is debut D-SLR camera by Canon that can allow the user to shoot HD videos of 1920X108. If you are using the Live View Mode, you can take stills and also continue filming after the stills has been shot.

One problem that is often encountered in cameras is that no matter how good picture quality is obtained, the focusing of the object usually ruins everything. But not in this camera! It has a 9 point Auto focus system loaded with a supportive invisible Assist AF Points that focuses the object with accuracy, while it is in motion since the AI Servo AF mode enables the camera to track down the object.

Another major issue with video making is the fact that lighting is different in different areas; you may have to shoot in a sequence from indoors to outdoors such as a planned surprise visit to a friend house. At such situations the camera itself adjusts the settings so that you have a control over brightness, sharpness and clarity of the image and you can also enhance the effects of blurring and drive mode. This is made possible by a newly designed start menu that has the option of Quick Control Screen and Creative Auto Mode.

Since no gadget is complete without its accessory kit, EOS 5D Mark II is also presented with a high capacity 1800mAh lithium-ion battery pack LP-E6 and a Battery Grip BG-E6 which enhances the shooting appetite of the camera. And no strings attached! That is, the camera is accompanied by the WFT-E4- that has external HDD and also supports GPS along with the property to directly transmit the photos or videos to computer or FTP server, so camera can be operated without any cables required for the task. Lesser the hassle and more the feasibility!

But it has been observed that even with outstanding image quality cameras may lag behind in popularity and acceptance among the customers due to inconvenient or unattractive physical appearance. Not with this one; an extravagant outer built and brilliant image eminence, easy to understand controls/menu functions, uncomplicated modes and fast start up, along with a commendable light weight that facilitates portability, makes it a definitive hit in the market.

However, clean freaks may complain about the dust particles that adhere to the LCD screen due to the static charge produced by the coating material used, but that’s not a big issue. Good eh! So, if you want a smart camera with efficient look and service both, then this is the one for you.

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Canon EOS 500D

May 21, 2009

The high definition video feature is something which all about digital SLR cameras these days and Canon EOS 500D promises to make it even better with it’s 15.1megapixel APS-C sensor and the 3.4fps maximum continuous shooting speed.

Nikon first paved the way for HD video for the SLR Cameras with with the D90. But Canon being the leading brand for SLRs has been catching up fast with it’s first model EOS 5D MkII and now with the EOS 500D.

Although there are quite a few things that we found comment worth such as the 1080p at 20fps which is not an impressive frame rate for HD quality TVs or having no mic outpur is also a big turn off.

Having said that we are not entirely summarising that the Canon EOS 500D is a useless but when you switch the output to 750p then the HD output comes out quite stunning at a more acceptable frame rate of 30fps.

Other highlights of this camera is the sheer light weight and compact design build which is quite admirable, and makes up for the hefty price tag of £700.

Canon EOS 500D Specifications

Megapixels: 15.1MP
Wi-Fi: No
Dimensions: 128.8×97.5×61.9mm
LCD size: 3in
Bluetooth: No
Weight: 480g
Optical viewfinder: Yes
Maximum movie resolution: 1920×1080
Maximum frames per second: 34
Zoom function during movies: Yes
Memory card type: SD/SDHC

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