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November 12, 2009
[REVIEW—CANON EOS 7D DSLR]
Price: $2700 [body]
Brilliant
The low-down: This18 megapixel DSLR camera has dual image processors for fast operation – burst mode of up to 8fps (JPEG). It is well made and rugged with extensive sealing against dust and moisture. There is automatic dust removal by filter shake. The high resolution 75mm LCD can be used for camera function display and selection, and most settings are also displayed on the body-top LCD and in the 100 per cent coverage viewfinder. There is high definition (1920X1080) video capture and a socket for an external microphone. Live view shooting now has face detection auto-focus.
Like: This camera is ultra-responsive with seemingly no time lag between imagining the picture and having it saved on the CF card. The 8fps burst speed is ideal for capturing fast moving subjects. Auto focus and auto exposure are almost always spot on. The extra resolution of the sensor does not appear to have come at the cost of added noise. Up to ISO1600 images are smooth and clean.
Dislike: Only having three frame auto bracketing is poor. Nikon brackets nine and Pentax seven – which is ideal for creating high dynamic range sets. The low light auto-focus assist lamp is still the dreadful pulse flash method.
Verdict: Canon now has an APS-C size sensor camera to compete with the Nikon D300s, filling a gap in their product line. Choosing between the Canon and the Nikon is easy – buy the camera for which you already own lenses. If starting from scratch the Nikon feels the more “professional” and is certainly better for low light work because of the better focus assist system. At the risk of derision we might sum up the differences this way: the Nikon is from Mars and the Canon from Venus. The choice is between the handsome Nikon and the gorgeous Canon.
THERE IS A SMALL GALLERY OF CANON EOS7D PHOTOS HERE >>>
Posted by terry at November 12, 2009 09:30 AM
Worth Checking Out
Digital Cameras SydneyComments
Hi Terry,
Many thanks you for your DSLR advice - online & Green Guide.
After your review above, and your column in today's GG, I think I might blow my budget and buy the Canon EOS 7D.
Can you recommend a lens? I'm after an allround zoom as I can't afford to buy another lens for some time.
Thanks again,
Mike
Posted by: Mike Eddy at December 31, 2009 02:45 PM
Mike: It's an excellent camera, you won't be disappointed.
Now, as to the lens, it depends on what you mean by "all round".
You can buy the camera as a kit with either the Canon EFS 18-135. Or with the EFS17-85. The 18-135 gives a greater range, but it is a cheaper lens. The 17-85 is a better quality lens. I own them both and I prefer the 17-85 -- it is simply better. However the 18-135 is certainly not rubbish.
I think you would enjoy using either.
Terry L
Posted by: Anonymous at December 31, 2009 08:33 PM
Many thanks Terry. I value your advice.
Cheers
Mike
Posted by: Mike Eddy at January 1, 2010 08:46 AM