Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)
012 4 I have recently bought Canon 50D from Amazon . Based on my initial experience with this Camera , I must say that 50D produces amazingly sharp pictures in low light conditions , with kids , and a variety of outdoor scenarios like sports and nature . I am an amateur in photography , and upgrading from an advanced point and shoot . I have read almost all reviews available on the internet including dpreview before deciding on 50D . I have given serious thoughts to Nikon 90D , but the build quality , ergonomics , and speed do not match with 50D . If you believe the picture quality counts over every thing else in a camera , Canon 50D is the way to go ! You will not be disappointed !
041 4 Earlier this year I purchased the Canon 40d , thinking that it's replacement wouldn't be in the works for a while . I was quite surprised , and somewhat dismayed , to find that Canon was releasing the 50d so soon . I wasn't sure if I wanted to spend more money to upgrade . But I was never totally satisfied with the 40d , so I took the plunge . I can only say that I'm thrilled with the performance of the 50d compared to the 40d . While I'm not prepared to go into a long detailed comparison , I will say that I find the image quality and the auto-focus accuracy of the 50d to be noticeably better than the 40d . I have no regrets making the upgrade .
083 4 I'm by no means an expert photographer , so I probably have barely scratched the surface of the potential of this camera . But , based on how I do use it , it is amazing . I find it very user friendly . I'm able to get some phenomenal shots with the most basic of settings . I can't wait to improve my skills and really make use of this camera's capabilities and quality . If you are a serious beginner-to-intermediate photographer , I think you'd be very happy with the Canon 50D .
159 4 I'm seriously just a beginner . So If you know a lot about a camera , this might not be the review for you . For me , as a beginner , this is an amazing camera . It's taken beautiful pictures . My only suggestion to someone buying this camera who doesnt know about camera , would be to buy a canon 50d book with it . The manual is a little hard to read . Now that I'm getting used to all the functions , I'm just ammazed at what it can do . I couldnt be more pleased with this purchase !
197 4 I love this camera . It's a bit of an upgrade from the Kiss N , which I mainly use . It definitely comes in handy . It's a lot safer to take everywhere than my Mark , ha . Great screen , I know some people have issues with the sizes of the screens . I really can't complain about this camera . The weight could be better , but then you wouldn't have such a great camera . I love the settings , the manual , the design , everything . It's wonderful .
039 4 I am a professional wedding photographer and purchased this camera as a backup camera in February 2009 before going to shoot a Puerto Rico wedding . I have owned Canon Rebel , Canon 20D , Canon 30D , Canon 50D , and Canon 5D MkII , and this 50D is by far the worst of all of them . I feel a little stupid for taking this long to realize that the camera quality is this awful . It is not my main camera , and when I have used it just for convenience of not having to switch lenses as often , I am ALWAYS disappointed with the picture quality . It doesn't seem to matter what the ISO is set to . . . ISO 100 or ISO 2000 , the picture always has noise . No matter what lens I have ( which I have a large collection of Canon L lenses ) , the picture is never sharp and crisp . All this time I've never paid much attention . . . most of the time I just thought it was user error somehow . Recently a fellow photographer friend mentioned that the Canon 50D was said to have bad reviews for the noise and picture quality . . . the reason being because they packed too much mega pixels into it . More pixels does NOT mean better quality on the smaller sensor cameras . I've had it too long to return now . . . so I'm just stuck with a crappy camera . I've actually gone back to using my 30D and 20D cameras as backups . When my budget is plump , I'm definitely splurging on another Canon 5D MkII . I love that camera so .
017 4 I have been an active hobbyist photographer for about 15 years . I started out with film cameras and have since moved on to digital . I have owned the original digital rebel , the Rebel XSi , and I recently purchased the T1i . I eventually returned the T1i and decided to upgrade to the next level . Nothing against the T1i , but it really didn't provide the improvement I was looking for . . . the 50D does that and so much more . I have taken it through the paces that my XSi has gone through and it handled flower and landscape photography perfectly . Where the 50D really shines was in the realm of action photography . I am currently using a Sandisk Extreme 3 card ( 30MB / s ) . I was shooting some indoor action at ISO 600 + and it was amazing at catching the action without excessive graininess . Once I adjusted to the setting ( I am still adjsuting to some ) , I find that setting up is a snap and the topside information screen is a real help . For those out there reading this review and debating whether it is time to take the plunge to the midrange , or stay in the rebel range , I would encourage you to give this camera a serious look over the T1i or XSi .
179 4 Hey , Canon fans ! If you're like me , you have put off buying this camera because it costs a bit more than the Rebel line . When you weigh the camera differences against the cost difference , I promise you that the 50D will come out on top . I previously have owned two Rebels . The kit lens ( 28 - 135mm USM IS ) is very good also . I may never be able to afford Canon's outstanding L-series lenses , but the Canon lenses I do have are Image Stabilized and work perfect for me . The camera is built like a tank and is a little bigger and heavier than the Rebels , but that ends up making the camera feel better in my hands , and I am of average build . The 50D is packed with pro features plus Live View , and is more light sensitive than any other camera I have owned . Amazon had the best price and they had it in my hot little hands in just a few days ! Outstanding camera . Outstanding price . Outstanding company . . . Amazon ! ! ! You may regret putting off this purchase any longer .
196 4 Love this one . Bought one for the wife . Liked it so much I bought myself one . We don't share well . Awesome shutter speed . Amazing color and exposure ( ISO ) .
215 4 I was using Canon rebel XT before bought for about $600 three years ago , No I upgraded to Canon 50D for little over $1000 , Certainly see this camera is lot more functional for my work and It is not very heavy to handle like other Pro digital cameras .
042 4 I love this camera . I was initially pleased but not overly enthusiastic when I tried it out with my EF-S 60mm macro lens . Then , I attached the 24 - 105mm L series lens and the pictures are wonderful . I have always done touchups with Photoshop and Noise Ninja ; don't need those anymore , at least for these pictures , although I did some additional sharpening . I severely cropped some pictures and still had enough detail and sharpness to please anyone . The exposure ( with less blown out highlights ) and focusing were spot on , and focusing is FAST ! ! It is a much better camera than either the Canon 20D or 30D .
142 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
I upgraded from the 20D to 50D and WHAT A DIFFERENCE ! Focus , clarity and
color depth are excellent . I would recommend this camera to anyone who
is serious about their pictures . You will not be disappointed with this
one . Great work Canon ! !
Tom in Maine
143 4 I upgraded from the 20D to 50D and WHAT A DIFFERENCE ! Focus , clarity and
color depth are excellent . I would recommend this camera to anyone who
is serious about their pictures . You will not be disappointed with this
one . Great work Canon ! !
Tom in Maine
174 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
I had 300D and I decided to upgrade to 50D .
Today , I know I made the right decision when it comes to take pictures .
This camera is better in many ways so , I won't even try to desrcibe . There's some pro sites for that .
As for my experience , I love it . Pictures come out great and I feel like I must take pictures all the time .
If you have any thoughts whether to buy this one or not , DON'T HASITATE . TAKE IT !
175 4 I had 300D and I decided to upgrade to 50D .
Today , I know I made the right decision when it comes to take pictures .
This camera is better in many ways so , I won't even try to desrcibe . There's some pro sites for that .
As for my experience , I love it . Pictures come out great and I feel like I must take pictures all the time .
If you have any thoughts whether to buy this one or not , DON'T HASITATE . TAKE IT !
192 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
I HAVE BEEN USING THE CAMARA FOR ONLY 2 WEEKS , I HAD A CANON REBEL AND THE DIFERENCE YN QUALITY IS GREAT ! ! ! I LOVE CANON CAMARAS ! ! 11
211 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
This camera is FAST . With an L lens you can shoot in very low light and still get excellent pictures . I have had this camera for a few months and have shot a few thousand pictures .
I like it , but it bothers me a little that Canon releases a new model and then in a very short time offers newer processors .
212 4 This camera is FAST . With an L lens you can shoot in very low light and still get excellent pictures . I have had this camera for a few months and have shot a few thousand pictures .
I like it , but it bothers me a little that Canon releases a new model and then in a very short time offers newer processors .
045 4 I upgraded from a Canon EOS 10D . I bought this camera because the price was within my budget and I've already invested in several Canon lenses . The increased screen size was a welcome change as my customers are always wanting to see their photos right after I take them . It's very nice for me because I'm constantly reviewing my photos to verify my lighting . I managed to shoot over 250,000 photos with my 10D before the shutter gave out and I expect the 50D to do the same . The decreased shutter lag and the increase in frames per second has allowed me to get those action shots easier than before . Of course , my wedding shots have really increased in quality due to the enhanced ISO range and the ease of changing settings through the new menu . The real surprise is the ability to register the lens to the camera to remove lens dust defects from my JPGs . The software supplied with the camera removes the dust when I transfer it to my PC . That feature alone saves me hours of work on the back end . I love this camera !
121 4 Previous camera for 6 years was an early Digital Rebel which I'm still very pleased with . For an upgrade I was debating between the 40D and 50D . The 50D's new sensor is what swayed me . I chose the 18 - 200 kit . Extremely pleased all around . The image stabilized lens , high ISO capability and low noise sensor does very well in low light conditions - another major consideration as I shoot concerts , night shots and astrophotography . Main complaint so far is pretty minor - on / off switch is poorly placed and not intuitive .
201 4 I bought this camera as an upgrade to my rebel xti , although the rebel xti was an exceptional camera . The Canon 50D blows it out of the water . it has superior build and functionality , great ISO range from 100 - 3200 expandable to 6400 and 12800 witch is a little to far for my standards . Fast and responsive auto focus , great live view function . I don't really have anything bad to say about this beautiful peace of equipment .
046 4 The Canon 50D is amazing . Im starting college and majoring in photography . I gave it some thought and decided to get a new camera . Before the 50D , I had a Canon xti . The xti was good for me to really just learn somethings out about the camera . Don't get me wrong , it was a good camera ! I just needed something a little more advanced . The 50D does that and I love it ! The colors are incredible . The one thing that I like about it the most , well its a small thing , but I love the shutter . On the xti , I could not take a picture during a wedding and it not make a loud sound that ruined it all ! On the 50D , it is a lot quieter . Now I understand that it is probably that way with a lot of other Canon's , but it was a big difference going from an xti to a 50D . Huge difference ! ! !
074 4 Upgraded to 50D from Digital Rebel . The features on this camera are far superior to Rebel . Image quality is fantastic . Proud new owner of 50D . Well worth the money . Think this will be my camera of choice for many years to come .
056 4 My only regret is that the price keeps dropping on this so I spent about $200 than I needed to . That said I was scared off by the eary reviews here that seem to be niggling compared to the B & H photo / video reviews that are almost 100 percent pro photographers . I am a professional photographer who spends more on glass and accessories than the camera body and have avoided the megapixel mania . I moved up from a Rebel XTi so I can't speak to the difference between the 40D and the 50D . This camera is fabulous compared to anything under $2,500 .
107 4 We did a Wedding with our new camera and the results are fantastic . Photographers who have been around alot longer may want a little more expensive camera , but I challenge any photographer to put my photos up to theirs and tell the difference . If you want a incredible camera for a great price I highyly recomend this camera . The color , white balance , and sharpness of the photos are great . Shooting at high Iso still produces great shots .
070 4 I am a freelance photographer on the side , and I LOVE this camera . It is everything I hoped it would be and more . I use it for a lot of sports photography . It is the perfect camera for you if you can't afford a Mark III , but need to rapidly capture figures in motion . Bravo Canon !
110 4 This is my first DSLR and I absolutely love it . At first I was a little overwhelmed by all the settings because I had never used a SLR before , but it did not take me long to figure out how to use the manual functions of the camera .
109 4 I decided to buy a DSLR after seeing pictures I took with a friend's DSLR . I did my research and decided to get the 50D along with a Canon 17 - 55mm f / 2.8 lens , a Canon 70 - 200mm f / 4 lens and a Speedlite 580EX II . Six months later , I am still learning how to use it all . However , I have already taken pictures that I will cherish for the rest of my life !
124 4 This camera is truly an awesome camera . The picture quality is astounding ! I upgraded from my Canon 20D . It is easy to use and uses all my previous Canon lenses . The larger digital viewing screen is great . I would recommend this camera to anyone looking for Canon quality at a great price from Amazon .
116 4 The crisp photos ? The color correct photos ? The ease of use ? The Fab software that is packaged with it ? The nice feel in your hand ? Or , the intuitive menu . I love this unit . It is the best I have ever owned .
125 4 I'm a big fan of Canon products so naturally when the 50D went on sale I had to have it . I own several Canon cameras , a G9 , 20D and a film Eos A2E . This camera is head and shoulders better than the 20D . Everything about the 50D is first class . Glad I got it !
134 4 I bought this camera last week . . I have two L Series lenses . 24 - 105 and 70 - 200 . with these lenses image quality is perfect . Colors are vivid . I strongly recommend this camera to eveyone .
145 4 I am a beginner . . . . and I love this camera ! ! I am learning all the features . . . and I know that will take some time . Overall this camera is easy to use and is one of the best purchases I have made ! Totally love it ! !
200 4 Since I am not yet a photography professional I can only mention that this camera with its new features is spectacular ! I love the results I am getting !
149 4 While this is my first DSLR , I have found that this is a great camera to learn with . The Rebel series is less expensive , but you can feel the difference with this camera . The overall feel of the camera is more durable . The functionality is great . The price has only dropped about $80 dollars in about 10 months . It has sustained it's value all through the release of the 7D model .
147 4 I haven't even opened the box yet . I'm still trying to figure out why I bought it . I think it has something to do with a fifth of Dewars . However I do on a 30D and it is a fine camera . I have used Canon equipment since the 60s and I have always bee very satisfied with the quality . Anyone want to buy a ' like new ' 30D : ?
153 4 I am giving this camera 4 - stars because of the lens it came with . The camera is GREAT . But if you get the lens package , you might notice that pictures aren't as sharp as they should be on a 15MP camera . . . but other than that , love the camera . It's user friendly & takes professional grade pictures . I only wish it had a video option .
183 4 What I can say ? I must say They are GREAT PRODUCTS ! They are very easy to use and result of pictures are great . That makes me kind of like a pro . : )
213 4 this is my 4th canon camera , it is the best by far , very easy to use . the veiw screen is great . it does take some time to learn all the control , but after that it a breeze . love it !
157 4 I have never owned a prosumer camera in my life . I bought a 30d for a friend as a gift and shot with it a couple of times . The results I get with the 50d far outshine that of the 30d but I can't tell you why . Not an expert . I just know you can't beat the price and the 28 - 135mm lens produces wonderful shots . I like pulling it all the way out , setting the camera on AV mode at 5.6 and getting that beautiful blurry background with my subject in focus . I have two friends with the 30d and they have both found my camera extremely desirable . One attractive quality is that you can see all of the settings when you look in the view finder so you can make adjustments while you are framing up a shot . I can't wait to really learn the camera . The user's manual is okay but I preferred getting the field guide .
187 4 I just bought this camera this month . I had planned on buying the Rebel , but decided on the 50D because of the build quality . True , it's a bit heavy , but it feels more solid than the Rebel . I think that a heavy lens , like the 24 - 135mm would be better on a camera more solidly built . I didn't want a lens to outweigh the camera ! The pictures , too , are fantastic . I can see a definite improvement over my small point and shoot camera . Since the 50D is so well built , I hope to use it for years before upgrading .
canon 50d camera review
1 : Image size and quality : -
for this camera . . . i believe that canon really invested a lot in the quality of the images of the sensor . the quality is just amazing . The color information and the contrast in the levels is just unbelievable , actually i don't believe that pictures are that awesome without any kind of post processing . and of course the 15 megapixels are worth it . at first i had a rebel and i didn't think that the extra 3 mega pixels will make a difference , but i was wrong . the 15 mega pixels is something entirely different from the 12 mega pixels . but keep in mind that the large mega pixel comes with a price . the size of the images are LARGE . i use 8gb CF cards , it takes almost 400 images . and also the compact flash is expensive cards if you are aiming for UDMA cards . Conclusion . . . if you are looking for a good image quality and you don't want to pay 2000 $ + i would say that this camera is the best choice .
2 : Camera Speed :
if there is one thing i really love about this body , it is the speed . I am not talking about the 6.3 frames per second , i am talking about the camera speed itself . processing , menus , image playback , shutter lag , start up time ; basically the time you take to change anything in the camera . it is extremely fast , u just can't keep up with her . also the auto focus is very fast ( this also partially the lens ) . but also the camera performance in terms of metering , focus adjust is also extremely fast . then of course , the 6.3 frames persecond . . . not the fastest in the market of course . but as far as i need . i don't think i will need more than this speed .
3 : Low light performance :
for me , this will be the only think missing from canon . there is no doubt that canon will lose in any comparison in low light conditions against Nikon . It is a fact that the Nikon cameras just produces amazing image quality at low light conditions than the canon does . However , the high ISO performance in the 50D is really acceptable . You get noise FREE images all the way up to 500 . noise is noticeable at 1000 . and of course after that it is noisy.i am talking about the 100% frame crops . the bottom line the high ISO performance of this camera is acceptable , but don't think that you will out-photograph a Nikon ( D90 ) guy in low light using this camera .
4 : Build quality :
the first thing that you pick on right after you hold this camera is the build quality . Instantly you feel like you are holding a machine , you feel the build quality of this camera . if you hold a D90 after this camera you feel like you are holding a toy . i think that it is the best you get for this price tag .
5 : Ergonomics :
Canon cameras are ugly . the first thing i thought when i held this camera a brick wall with buttons , also the big pain canon delivers with changing the layout and functionality of the buttons and the body outer design with each release . Canon is just still way behind in terms of ergonomics compared to Nikon . But don't worry , it is just one week of photography and you will get used to this camera . the problem will be if you are using another canon body . The body is indeed heavy , when i am doing a complete photography day , i usually get cramps in my arms at the end of the day . One key think i like about this camera is the back wheel ; much better in use than the Nikon's back dial .
6 : Ease of use :
if you are a canon user . . . u will be familiar with the organized menu system and options of the canon cameras . i find this camera very easy to use . to change the camera option between one shot and the other , i would say it is easy to use .
Soooo . . . to conclude . . . i think this camera is an extremely good investment if you are willing to put up with ugly ergonomics and you are not looking specifically for low light photography . Other than that this camera will perform extremely good in any other condition .
What i really hate :
- There is no wireless flash controller . The D90 has one , canon should strongly consider this option . already released in the 7d . . . but too late
- Some of the buttons in this camera doesn't make sense . ( the AF-on button , also the flash exposure button on the top of the camera )
- I HATE the CA mode . it is like canon is reminding us that this camera is not for serious photographers . It is for people who doesn't know nothing about photography . and this is a very big problem in the market message that canon is sending to it's customers . I mean who would pay 1200 $ in a camera if he doesn't have the basics of D-SLR photography , if this camera is for rookies , then why there is a rebel production line in the first place . same also with the 5D mark II , even it is embarrassing with the later .
- Some of the menu options just makes you angry . also doesn't make any sense .
that is about it . except from these points . . . i LOVE This camera .
before the end of the camera part i would like to mention a point for canon that not a lot of people are aware of . canon supplies their professional software for free with the camera . Nikon only provide a viewer . The canon Digital photo professional is an awesome tools . if you are shooting raw . then this would be the best . they keep enhancing it release after release and i find my self not using photoshop or lightroom any more .
This is as far as the camera goes .
now :
Section II : the 28 - 135 lens review :
i will try to be as fast as i can as this is getting to long
1 - Coverage range : when you start using this lens you would realize that this was targeted to the full frame cameras . the 28 is extremely narrow . if you are planing to get landscape images . . . FORGET it . the 135 on the other hand is really useful ( with the 1.6 factor ) . you get good zoom on this camera . . . like u are using a 70 - 200 on a full frame body . So this lens would make a great general purpose lens on a full frame body , however it is acceptable on this body .
2 - Quality & performance : this lens delivers nice sharp results , relatively accurate in terms of focusing and extremely fast . produces a very smooth bokeh detail when pushed to its lowest f stop . u see some chromatic aberrations around some edges in pictures which are not exposed correctly . i didn't feel any vignetting in the pictures . in all . . . this lens will deliver you an image with extremely satisfactory results . ( if you know how to adjust the camera options to make the most of it )
3 - Build quality : like the 50D , really good but really heavy . one thing i don't like about this lens is that if you are pointing it downwards , you find the barrel zooming in automatically ( cuz of the heavy glass element in the front ) . same thing happens if you are pointing it upwards .
i would suggest u get the lens hood , also a UV filter . the filter size is HUGE for a kit lens . and you will find it collecting lots of smudges and dust .
To conclude on all :
I love this camera , it's pros so much out weights its cons . i would suggest this camera for anyone who wants to get out of the rebel line , it would also make a great back up body for those using 1ds and 5ds . with relatively low price , and you will get a very satisfactory results . Don't believe the reviews talking about low quality images . wither they don't know how to use the camera , or they are using bad lenses .
finally . . . how much it compares to :
D90 : ( almost the same price 200 $ difference ) depends on what you want . if you are not looking for low light performance , then this is the camera for you .
D300 : it is not available anymore , as Nikon introduced the d300s which is aimed at a higher end market with much expensive price tag . i would go with this camera . at least canon still puts it in its camera list : - ) .
7D : if you have no problems spending extra 600 $ then of course get the 7d , all the cons in the 50d are gone in the 7D . but i would prefer to get a 50D then step up from it to a 5d MarkII .
well . . . that is it .
i hope this review was useful . i tried to outline all the things i really like and hate in this camera .
please feel free to comment and ask about anything in this review .
thanks
Mously
002 4 Upon reading my way through every review I could find about this camera I noticed that a lot of people were upset about noise levels compared to those seen in the 40D . As I was looking to buy one or the other at the time it was very important to me to see if these noise issues were in fact true or just caused by external factors . Lucky for me a good friend has a 40D and a local camera shop was nice enough to let us borrow their 50D to snap a few comparison shots . My friend and I took shot after shot using identical settings and identical lenses under a variety of situations , ( low light , high speed , high light , inside , outside , dull colors and vibrant colors ) . We then took the pictures , compiled them on a single memory card and displayed them on my 46 1080P HDTV . Results were very much in favor of the 50D . Shot for shot the 50D either matched or exceeded the picture quality of the 40D in all but one situation : indoors with low light and dull colors . Under that situation the 50D seemed to noise out on the constant color areas , ( beige walls for example ) , while the 40D tended to noise out at the interface between colors , ( at the boundary of a beige wall and darm crown molding for example ) . Both developed noise but the 50D had more .
Overall though I was very impressed with the performance of the 50D . It picked up a lot of details that the 40D didn't even come close to getting , ( thanks to the 15.1MP sensor no doubt ) , was much better able to capture high-speed action in daylight and only produced noisy images under very particular situations .
I purchased the 50D .
003 4 Before you read this review , please note that the Canon 50D and D90 are not in the same class and are targeted at different markets , but there are still many people , including myself , comparing them with each other due to the relatively small difference in price . The Canon 50D should be compared to the Nikon D300 , but since the D300 is clearly a better camera , there is no point . The 50D is in fact , somewhere in between the D90 and D300 . With that being said , I hope you find my review helpful .
I spent a lot of time researching and comparing the Canon 50D with the Nikon D90 . I picked the 50D . I hope my information here can help some of you out there making the same comparisons .
First of all , I highly suggest that you go to a local store and actually hold both cameras , play with them and get a feel for them . You will notice right away that the D90 feels cheap and is just made of plastic . The 50D , on the other hand , is made of magnesium-alloy and feels sturdy . It actually feels like a high-end camera . The 50D is also weather-sealed , unlike the D90 . Build quality is extremely important , so keep that in mind . I also found the menus and button locations to be more user-friendly than the Nikon's .
I read a countless reviews on the 50D and D90 . Most D90 reviews were pretty consistent with each other . The D90 is a great camera that provides excellent image quality , can take 720p videos and is $300 less than the 50D . The 50D review were also pretty consistent with each other . The 50D is not much of an improvement over the 40D , the increase to 15.1MP resulted in a small increase in image quality and resulted in more noise at higher ISO settings , it cannot take videos and is $300 more than the D90 .
From a value standpoint , the D90 is a better camera . It's a few hundred bucks cheaper than the 50D and can take videos . That's pretty much where the comparisons end . Here's why .
1 . The D90 isn't even a direct competitor of the 50D . The D90 is aimed toward the consumer market while the 50D is aimed toward the prosumer market . However , I still couldn't resist comparing the two , since the D300 was out of my budget .
2 . Video Mode - Nikon released the D90 with a sub par video recording feature . It maxes out at 720p and does not , I repeat , DOES NOT have auto-focus . From my experience with the D90 ' s video mode , the combination of holding the camera with one hand while focusing with the other and walking around resulted in , well , bad videos . If you want to take videos , get the Canon T1i .
3 . Performance - The 50D , as with other prosumer level cameras , uses CF cards while the the D90 , as with other consumer level cameras , uses SD cards . CF cards offer higher capacities , but more importantly , faster speeds . The 50D is capable of taking 6.3 frames per second in continuous shot mode while the D90 is capable of taking 4.5 frames per second . That's with JPEGs . Try continuous shooting with the D90 in RAW mode , and it will just beg you to stop . The D90 just isn't made for high speed photography . It's made for taking pictures when you are out on vacation with the family . The 50D , on the other hand , was designed for high speed photography , such as sports and and capturing moving objects .
4 . Image Quality - Both cameras offer excellent image quality . It has been said in several reviews that the 50D produces noise at higher ISO settings than the D90 and even the Canon 40D . The reason for this is the higher MP count combined with the small size of the APS-C sensor along with the low quality of the lenses that were used in the reviews . If you plan on buying the 50D , PLEASE invest in a good lens to take advantage of the camera's increased pixel count . Had better lenses been used in reviews , the 50D would have received even better reviews . The 50D is not a consumer / enthusiast level camera , so why use cheap lenses to review it ?
5 . Live View - Wow , Live View is a sweet feature in DSLR camera . If you have an important shot to take , Live View can help you immensely ! The 50D and D90 both have Live View . The D90 only has one auto-focus mode in Live View , which is Contrast Detect . The 50D has Phase Detect and Contrast Detect . The D90 can only zoom in 6.7x , while the 50D can zoom in 10x . Why is this important ? The more you can zoom in , the more precisely you can dial in the focus . In addition , the 50D also offers micro focus adjustment to really dial in the focus . The D90 ' s Live View is adequate for the average casual user , but it's completely unacceptable to a higher end user . The 50D's Live View feature caters to a more demanding photographer .
6 . Value - The D90 is a few hundred dollars cheaper than the 50D . It has features that attract the average consumer , such a video . It produces great images worthy of a prosumer level camera , but lacks the feature and flexibility that a prosumer level camera offers , such as better build quality , better ergonomics , faster continuous shooting , full featured Live View and better tweakability . If these features are not important to you , get the D90 . However , as you improve your photography skills and start to photograph a wider variety of scenarios , you will find yourself wanting the additional features that the 50D offers .
The question you should be asking yourself is - What do I want to do with the camera ? Do you need a camera like the 50D , or do you see yourself needing its additional features down the road ? The 50D might be too much camera for many people . For that reason , I highly recommend the casual user to get the D90 . For you real photographers out there , get the Canon 50D . You will not miss the video feature , trust me . If you really want a Nikon , get the D300 ( which does not have video either ) .
004 4 I have had my hands on a 50D for exactly two days , and have taken only a few more than 100 photos ; however , it is clear to me that this is no 40D Mark II . It is a giant step-up from the 40D and , in my opinion , akin to a jump between the 20D and 40D ( the 30D skipped intentionally ) . I can speak and write confidently of this because I own or have owned all four cameras . I have the 50D with EF 18 - 200mm IS Telephoto Lens , which came as an offered kit . Additionally , I own and have used the 50D with an EF 24 - 105mm f4L and EF 85mm f1.8 . Here is my two day take :
a . Controls are familiar yet more intuitive than the 40D ;
b . Photos are top shelf . Incredible ! , Beautiful ! , and Wow ! are superlatives which came quickly to me and to my close friends . I tried a few photos at higher ISOs . Those photos showed a bit of ` noise , ' however , was much less than expected . Noise at low and mid-range ISOs was not visible to me . I took many pictures in shaded areas to see if this camera handles colors , tones , and lighting better than the disappointing manner of the 40D . Seems to be truth to the claim of improvement in that area . Not a Nikon D2 , but still quite excellent . I did not do any flash photography .
c . The LCD is bright , sharp , and much more viewable in sunlight than its predecessor . I think it matches well with those on the Nikons , which seems to have been one major objective with this camera .
d . The camera body is solid ; feeling to me even more so than the 40D .
e . The 18 - 200mm IS lens was quite nice , and provides a great one-lens option . I have not compared photos taken with it to those taken with the EF 24 - 105mm L-series ; however , I believe in L-series lenses and would guess the 18 - 200mm will not hold a candle to the L's . That said , it is a very excellent lens ! ! My only criticism is the significant differences in focusing ` speed ' between it and the 24 - 105mm L lens . It is Slooooooow . . .
The bottom-line is that 50D is a very excellent and , potentially , a very outstanding camera . Not perfect by any means , but a great step forward . I have not to date exercised enough of it's ' features and options to be more specific now , but I will follow-up with more information once I have the opportunity to use the camera more . I rated it a conservative 4 stars , which for me is a high rating .
FYI , I am an advanced amateur photographer . I have much experience with Canon SLRs dating back to the A - 1 , and with some Nikons , including the D300 . I have remained a Canon enthusiast because of the investment I have in EF lenses , and because Canon , sooner or later , always seems to come to the dance with superb equipment .
005 4 I used the 40D for a year , purchased the 50D based on positive user reviews here and at other online merchants , but as soon as I started taking photos with the 50D I noticed it had more noise and was softer than the 40D . Within a few days , people and review sites started posting comparisons and they all showed the same . Many people are raving about the 50D's greatness , but the photos tell a different story .
The 50D does have a much better LCD , does handle colors slightly better , but has more noise in photos than the 40D at ISO400 and up , as well as softer images . Taking softness and noise into consideration , you're not getting the clarity you should with 15mp , when compared to the 40D's 10mp . Even when downsizing photos to a smaller , web-sized image , more noise artifacts were visible in the 50D . Since I mostly shoot concert photography , I did not feel this was a worthwhile upgrade , so I returned the 50D and purchased another 40D .
If you shoot outside or in bright light you'll have better use of the 50D , but I don't think you're getting a great use of those 15mp . The 5D is 12mp and produces sharper images than the 50D - yes , it has a larger , better sensor - but my point is to show how you're not quite getting the most out of the 15mp on the 50D . You're paying for 15mp , but how useful are they ? If the 50D were 12mp , then producing sharper images with less noise than the 40D , I would have found that to be a worthy upgrade . The battery also drains faster in the 50D because of the LCD upgrade , if you use LCD much .
While the 50D may be great for some , I'll wait to see what's next . I highly recommend getting the 40D instead ; save money , get better lenses , upgrade later ( hopefully the next xxD ) and shame on Canon . Their claims of the 50D having less noise must have been based on its blotchy in-camera noise reduction quality and the more aggressive default settings of DPP's ( Canon's Digital Photo Professional software ) noise reduction as well .
006 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
I just received my new Canon 50D . I have to say that I am in love with this camera , no , it's not perfect . I would have loved to see a full frame CMOS sensor , but I can't have everything and price too ! I find the images to be crisp and clear and the operation easy to use . I have shot over 300 pictures with this camera so far and I am very happy with the quality of images , especially at the high ISOs . I also gave it to a novice photographer to use on Thanksgiving and they loved it as well and had no problem operating the camera
A couple of nitpicks - First , on the new CA mode , I completely understand the need for this setting , there are many people picking up these cameras who have never used an SLR before and don't understand aperture or shutter speed . However , this feature is only as good as the lens . If someone is using a lens that doesn't have an aperture of 2.8 or 1.4 then they won't get the background to be too blurred . Second , the exposure compensation is now on the rear dial , this is more a preference and I will most likely get use to it , in time : ) .
ETA : Another thing that would have been nice is a video setting like the 5D and the Nikon D90 . But again , you can't have everything .
One of the most impressive things to me was how it handles low light situations . I shot at the full range of ISOs and liked how the camera handled color , sharpness , and tone . I see many reviews saying that Nikon or other cameras hold up better in low light , that might be so , but that doesn't make the 50D horrible or bad , it makes it different . I don't suspect that people are taking low light pictures at the ISO setting 3200 or even 1600 all the time , if they are , then I might recommend a lens change , something is wrong .
And just a note - - to add light on the whole sensor / processor thing - look at it from this prospective film photographers will be disappointed because this camera wouldn't be able to compare against Kodachrome 25 ISO where you don't see grain at all or to the big bold grain of the Konica 3200 ISO - Nor can it fully replicate the Kodak / Konica infrared film where exposure was a best guess . So , in other words you can't please everyone . So choosing a camera body is like choosing film in the old days , each has their own uniqueness about it , but unlike film , you can't change easily .
I consider myself a photographer having been shooting for well over 25 years , and have basically shot everything from 8X10 cameras to Polaroid Land Cameras ( pull apart ) . I have used Holgas to Hasselblads . I have had access to some type of Digital Camera since Kodak came out with the Digital Nikon F3 with a top resolution was 1.3mp . I remembered when Kodak dropped the price of their pro-digital cameras from 25,000 to 10,000 that was something !
Well a big woopie do for me , so , I have been around . The reason why I am telling you all this , is not to impress you , but hopefully you will listen to some advice . I wasn't only a photographer but I sold high-end equipment . In the end you have to feel comfortable with whatever you buy , and you have to ask yourself what are the pros and cons of my purchase , can I afford it , and what do I want to do with my equipment ? These are all personal reasons and one persons reasons are as valid as anyone else's reasons .
One thing about Photography that I learned early on , learn the basics . Learning basic photography before you buy the big wiz bang camera may help you understand what you want to do with the big wiz bang or that you might not need the biggest or bestest wiz bang thingy .
A camera is only good as its lens , and with Digital you really have to * marry * both lens and camera . The one pitfall that I see people make is that they buy too much camera and not enough lens . In other words they run before they can walk . From my experience , with a few exceptions ( like the 28 - 135 mm F3.5 - 5.6 - - I think that this is a good lens - or the 24 - 105 F4 IS ) , the kit lens , IMHO , are made for a single reason , for cost . They won't give you a bad image , but if great images are what you want , then the lens makes all the difference in the world . In the film days I would say the body doesn't matter ( to some extent ) , buy the lens first and then work your way up to the bigger and better camera . It will help you , cameras with less features will help you understand photography more . Does this mean everyone has to buy a Canon L lens , no , there are some good lenses , but you have to research which ones are right for you .
Lens - I saw many reviews about different lens how this one is better than that one . One person couldn't tell the difference between a * lens kit * and an L lens . I would say to the person , you aren't paying attention to the detail and you are paying too much attention to the subject . The L lens system is the best quality glass in the canon system ; it's designed to be better than any other lens in the system . L lens are also designed for the working professional . It's made to last and they do . Lens that are in the kit aren't made to last and aren't designed with the working professional in mind , they are designed for people who want to keep cost down .
The Canon 50 1.4 and 85 1.8 are , IMHO , the best prime lens on the market . They will give you the best image quality , period .
As for the reviews on dpreview and image-resource , they still highly recommend this camera . Neither said that the camera was a horrible camera , nor did they blast it , they said that compared to others that certain features were better .
007 4 I just received my new Canon 50D . I have to say that I am in love with this camera , no , it's not perfect . I would have loved to see a full frame CMOS sensor , but I can't have everything and price too ! I find the images to be crisp and clear and the operation easy to use . I have shot over 300 pictures with this camera so far and I am very happy with the quality of images , especially at the high ISOs . I also gave it to a novice photographer to use on Thanksgiving and they loved it as well and had no problem operating the camera
A couple of nitpicks - First , on the new CA mode , I completely understand the need for this setting , there are many people picking up these cameras who have never used an SLR before and don't understand aperture or shutter speed . However , this feature is only as good as the lens . If someone is using a lens that doesn't have an aperture of 2.8 or 1.4 then they won't get the background to be too blurred . Second , the exposure compensation is now on the rear dial , this is more a preference and I will most likely get use to it , in time : ) .
ETA : Another thing that would have been nice is a video setting like the 5D and the Nikon D90 . But again , you can't have everything .
One of the most impressive things to me was how it handles low light situations . I shot at the full range of ISOs and liked how the camera handled color , sharpness , and tone . I see many reviews saying that Nikon or other cameras hold up better in low light , that might be so , but that doesn't make the 50D horrible or bad , it makes it different . I don't suspect that people are taking low light pictures at the ISO setting 3200 or even 1600 all the time , if they are , then I might recommend a lens change , something is wrong .
And just a note - - to add light on the whole sensor / processor thing - look at it from this prospective film photographers will be disappointed because this camera wouldn't be able to compare against Kodachrome 25 ISO where you don't see grain at all or to the big bold grain of the Konica 3200 ISO - Nor can it fully replicate the Kodak / Konica infrared film where exposure was a best guess . So , in other words you can't please everyone . So choosing a camera body is like choosing film in the old days , each has their own uniqueness about it , but unlike film , you can't change easily .
I consider myself a photographer having been shooting for well over 25 years , and have basically shot everything from 8X10 cameras to Polaroid Land Cameras ( pull apart ) . I have used Holgas to Hasselblads . I have had access to some type of Digital Camera since Kodak came out with the Digital Nikon F3 with a top resolution was 1.3mp . I remembered when Kodak dropped the price of their pro-digital cameras from 25,000 to 10,000 that was something !
Well a big woopie do for me , so , I have been around . The reason why I am telling you all this , is not to impress you , but hopefully you will listen to some advice . I wasn't only a photographer but I sold high-end equipment . In the end you have to feel comfortable with whatever you buy , and you have to ask yourself what are the pros and cons of my purchase , can I afford it , and what do I want to do with my equipment ? These are all personal reasons and one persons reasons are as valid as anyone else's reasons .
One thing about Photography that I learned early on , learn the basics . Learning basic photography before you buy the big wiz bang camera may help you understand what you want to do with the big wiz bang or that you might not need the biggest or bestest wiz bang thingy .
A camera is only good as its lens , and with Digital you really have to * marry * both lens and camera . The one pitfall that I see people make is that they buy too much camera and not enough lens . In other words they run before they can walk . From my experience , with a few exceptions ( like the 28 - 135 mm F3.5 - 5.6 - - I think that this is a good lens - or the 24 - 105 F4 IS ) , the kit lens , IMHO , are made for a single reason , for cost . They won't give you a bad image , but if great images are what you want , then the lens makes all the difference in the world . In the film days I would say the body doesn't matter ( to some extent ) , buy the lens first and then work your way up to the bigger and better camera . It will help you , cameras with less features will help you understand photography more . Does this mean everyone has to buy a Canon L lens , no , there are some good lenses , but you have to research which ones are right for you .
Lens - I saw many reviews about different lens how this one is better than that one . One person couldn't tell the difference between a * lens kit * and an L lens . I would say to the person , you aren't paying attention to the detail and you are paying too much attention to the subject . The L lens system is the best quality glass in the canon system ; it's designed to be better than any other lens in the system . L lens are also designed for the working professional . It's made to last and they do . Lens that are in the kit aren't made to last and aren't designed with the working professional in mind , they are designed for people who want to keep cost down .
The Canon 50 1.4 and 85 1.8 are , IMHO , the best prime lens on the market . They will give you the best image quality , period .
As for the reviews on dpreview and image-resource , they still highly recommend this camera . Neither said that the camera was a horrible camera , nor did they blast it , they said that compared to others that certain features were better .
008 4 I'll echo the comments of many others regarding the 50D when compared to the 40D : in my view , the 50D's not better , it's different .
I sold my 40D to a friend before purchasing my 50D . Half of me says it was the right thing to do , and half of me says it was a mistake . Under the right conditions , the 50D's resolution is very impressive . It has produced some very nice shots . The extra pixels not only mean finer detail , but also , greater smoothness .
The 50D also , however , generates more noise and captures less color and tone contrast than the 40D . The dpreview dynamic range tests show the 50D lagging behind the 40D by over 2 / 3 ' s of a stop in the shadow end . Many of the images I've shot with the 50D clearly reflect this weakness ; hair , for example , can take on that matted , muddy look .
The 50D's greater resolution gives me more freedom with cropping . I can shoot a scene big and know I can trim it later and still produce a high quality image . Color and tone accuracy and balance are typically Canon-like . But my 40D did a much better job in mid and low light , and the tone curve it produced was easier for me to work with in Photoshop .
I understand now why Canon announced the 50D as a companion to the 40D , rather than a replacement . I do like the 50D's increased resolution , but the 40D is arguably the better or more versatile photographic tool . The 50D will excel in good light situations , but the 40D will produce a better image in high contrast situations and low and mid light .
009 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
This camera is breathtakingly outstanding ! If you're seriously considering doing some professional photography but you're a little irked by the price tag of DSLR offerings ( $2,000 for the body and above ) , then stop here . You will not be disappointed .
For those reviews stating that images are too soft , etc . , please check Jodi-Ann Richards ' review that nearly has 600 helpful votes ( as of 1 / 29 / 09 ) . She covers the camera in exhaustive detail .
If you don't have time to review her pages-long review , however , here's a quick summary of her bottom line : this camera's megapixel count of 15.1 REQUIRES GOOD OPTICS . It follows the old saying of garbage in garbage out . If you buy cheap optics , then you'll be horrifically disappointed . You need the good optics to exploit the most of its 15.1 megapixel capabilities . That said , some reviews ( notably dpreview.com ) have stated that the increase of 5 megapixels from the 40D and the 50D are hardly noticeable , but keep in mind that they are testing the camera using one of the cheaper lens options . They do go on to say , however , that the megapixel count does demand good optics . I dare say that they would have been more pleased with the image quality if they had purchased one of Canon's L lenses .
I personally bought a Canon EF 24 - 105mm f / 4 L IS USM lens ( L is Canon's flagship line ) . The lens itself costs almost the same as the body itself , but is well worth it . The optics on this lens and the autofocus speed ( lightning quick for a walkabout telephoto ) is superb and the image results do not disappoint . Also , being able to maintain a f / 4 aperture throughout the full length of the zoom is nice .
If you're looking into professional work , feel that the Canon Rebel doesn't give you the control that you'd like , and feel that spending more than $2,000 for a camera body is too much , then this is your camera . It maintains the balance of being able to be fully automatic to allowing you to manually adjust aperture , ISO speed , shutter speed , etc . by yourself .
You will not be disappointed with this purchase - just remember to get a GOOD LENS for this camera . It's crucial .
010 4 This camera is breathtakingly outstanding ! If you're seriously considering doing some professional photography but you're a little irked by the price tag of DSLR offerings ( $2,000 for the body and above ) , then stop here . You will not be disappointed .
For those reviews stating that images are too soft , etc . , please check Jodi-Ann Richards ' review that nearly has 600 helpful votes ( as of 1 / 29 / 09 ) . She covers the camera in exhaustive detail .
If you don't have time to review her pages-long review , however , here's a quick summary of her bottom line : this camera's megapixel count of 15.1 REQUIRES GOOD OPTICS . It follows the old saying of garbage in garbage out . If you buy cheap optics , then you'll be horrifically disappointed . You need the good optics to exploit the most of its 15.1 megapixel capabilities . That said , some reviews ( notably dpreview.com ) have stated that the increase of 5 megapixels from the 40D and the 50D are hardly noticeable , but keep in mind that they are testing the camera using one of the cheaper lens options . They do go on to say , however , that the megapixel count does demand good optics . I dare say that they would have been more pleased with the image quality if they had purchased one of Canon's L lenses .
I personally bought a Canon EF 24 - 105mm f / 4 L IS USM lens ( L is Canon's flagship line ) . The lens itself costs almost the same as the body itself , but is well worth it . The optics on this lens and the autofocus speed ( lightning quick for a walkabout telephoto ) is superb and the image results do not disappoint . Also , being able to maintain a f / 4 aperture throughout the full length of the zoom is nice .
If you're looking into professional work , feel that the Canon Rebel doesn't give you the control that you'd like , and feel that spending more than $2,000 for a camera body is too much , then this is your camera . It maintains the balance of being able to be fully automatic to allowing you to manually adjust aperture , ISO speed , shutter speed , etc . by yourself .
You will not be disappointed with this purchase - just remember to get a GOOD LENS for this camera . It's crucial .
011 4 Moving from a 400D ( XTi ) to the 50D was a huge leap for me . The vast improvement in ISO performance , functions , menu , fps , etc . was invaluable . As my skills have progressed , I am looking forward to the opportunities afforded to me by the very powerful 50D . I will have to enhance my skills even more to fully use this camera . So for those moving from the Rebel line to an xxD series , this is a great move . Or if this is your first DSLR you will not be disappointed . However , if you already own an xxD ( such as the very popular 40D ) , then this is probably not the best choice for you . As some comprehensive reviews have shown , the 50D is not a major advancement from the 40D and really only offers some new features such as improved LCD , micro-AF adjustment , and a larger sensor . However , it does not beat and sometimes looses to the 40D in terms of noise and per-pixel sharpness , although both are still hotly debated .
The point being , if you are moving from the rebel series or this is your first camera , it is amazing , powerful , and you will not be disappointed . However , it is not , evolutionary to the xxD line , and is not a necessary trade-up for current xxD owners . This does not mean it is a bad or non-improved camera . It is amazing and incorporates many great new features . The value to you simply depends on your needs / style , and where you are coming from .
013 4 I upgraded my 30D for the 50D . One reason I chose the 50D over waiting for the 5D MkII was I could use everything I already had for my 30D . So I can continue to use my batteries , grip and remote release .
The new screen is perhaps the most obvious upgrade to anyone used to a 30 or 20D , the screen is stunningly clear and the higher resolution is obvious from the moment you turn it on .
The Digic 4 menu system is far easier to get along with compared to previous models , and the user custom menu allows you to configure your favorite options all on one place .
The 15 megapixel sensor is honestly overkill in my opinion , there is way too much attention pushed to the ' make it higher everytime ' by camera companies . 8 megapixels is more than enough for most people out there and big enough for most normal size prints , I've printed up to 13 inches without any problem . The one thing the extra mega pixels does give you is the option to crop closer in post processing .
Live view is nice , but I'll probably never use it . One of the reasons I like my DSLR over my point and shoot is the way the view finder allows me to see nothing but the shot and compose exactly the way I want without any distractions . Personally I still think Live view is an odd feature to put in a mid to high range DSLR but I can see where Canon would want to target those people used to point and shoot cameras . And most likely is something designed to get slowly move us towards the video / still camera style of which the 5D mkII is the future I'm sure .
I have to say at first I was some what concerned how sharp the images were at the full resolution , I shoot with the 24 - 105 F4 / L and 70 - 200 F / 4L and both of those lenses are incredibly sharp on my 30D . However I believe now that it is the software that is to blame , I have never been impressed with Canon's software and am delighted that Adobe has released Camera RAW 4.6 to allow me to get back into Bridge and Photoshop CS3 . I hope that Lightroom 2.1 gets released soon as that is my normal workflow and image management application . ( I do also use Aperture 2 but I am sure that will be a while before it becomes compatible with 50D RAW files ) .
The in camera JPEG files are OK . . . until you see what the RAW files can do , but at times it's nice to use in camera JPEG's when I am just doing point and shot stuff .
The camera feels very solid , and the build quality is excellent , the main scroll wheel feels much better than my 30D which always felt a little soft on the clicks .
I am concerned that for the first time today I got the err99 that many have reported and I am hoping it was a one off and not a sign of pending hardware failure in a camera less than one month old , there is plenty of posts out there on dpreview.com discussing these problems and I suggest reading them .
Overall I am happy with the upgrade ( assuming the err99 does not become a problem , I've never had this with a Canon DSLR before ) , but when it comes down to the images I have to say that I'm not seeing anything that justifies the upgrade price for any 30D owners and certainly not 40D owners . The two main reasons I upgraded are the new screen that finally enables me to check focus and the sensor cleaner ( dust was always a problem on my 30D sensor ) .
014 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
Upgraded from Digital rebel XTi primarily for functionality ( heavily invested in Canon lenses , so Nikon wasn't an option ) . . . I am the person who doesn't usually care for fancy features , but the first thing that you notice is the difference in the LCD display . Makes it very easy to review pictures . . . I usually shoot my indoor shots without flash , I like the warm feel of pictures it produces , but often causes the pictures to be blurry . Often you can't see that the picture is blurry until it has been downloaded to the computer and then it is too late to rewind time and fix it . So LOVE the detail this LCD shows and the excellent contrast it offers .
The wheel makes browsing through pictures a lot easier . The joystick based menu makes it easy to customize your settings . The LCD display on top gives you a quick glance at all the settings without having to look inside the viewfinder ( also great for checking / showing a newbie what settings you are using and why ) . The C1 and C2 settings can be used to remember your favorite custom settings for tricky conditions and can be a real time saver .
The Higher ISO settings ( 3200,6400 ) can come in pretty handy for taking pictures in low light without a flash , despite the noise - I prefer using the noise reduction features with the high ISO despite of the loss of detail that comes with it . Excellent camera !
015 4 Upgraded from Digital rebel XTi primarily for functionality ( heavily invested in Canon lenses , so Nikon wasn't an option ) . . . I am the person who doesn't usually care for fancy features , but the first thing that you notice is the difference in the LCD display . Makes it very easy to review pictures . . . I usually shoot my indoor shots without flash , I like the warm feel of pictures it produces , but often causes the pictures to be blurry . Often you can't see that the picture is blurry until it has been downloaded to the computer and then it is too late to rewind time and fix it . So LOVE the detail this LCD shows and the excellent contrast it offers .
The wheel makes browsing through pictures a lot easier . The joystick based menu makes it easy to customize your settings . The LCD display on top gives you a quick glance at all the settings without having to look inside the viewfinder ( also great for checking / showing a newbie what settings you are using and why ) . The C1 and C2 settings can be used to remember your favorite custom settings for tricky conditions and can be a real time saver .
The Higher ISO settings ( 3200,6400 ) can come in pretty handy for taking pictures in low light without a flash , despite the noise - I prefer using the noise reduction features with the high ISO despite of the loss of detail that comes with it . Excellent camera !
016 4 I moved to this camera body from a Canon EOS 10D model 2003 . That camera served me very well throughout the years , but it had some limitations .
In all aspects this new EOS 50D camera seriously outperforms the other camera on a large margin .
As a sign of excellently built and sturdiness , this camera with a Tokina 12 - 24 ATX Pro zoom lens and a Speedlight EX - 430 flash attached , recently fell on the wood floor of my house , from my tripod . Tripod was faulty and the head separated from the tripod body . I was horrified . To my amazement , nothing happened . I do not know how lucky I was , but I won't ever play with my luck again . I bought a new tripod since .
LCD display : 3 diagonal , bright , high res . LCD display , easily viewable indoors and out , a pleasure to use , compared to the small 1.8 diagonal LCD display of the EOS 10D .
Exposure meter : much more accurate , compared to the older camera . Canon cameras , over the years typically underexposed , when a wide angle lens was used . This one seems to have overcome that issue . Extremely accurate exposures on evaluative metering , with or without flash .
Color accuracy : an improvement over EOS 10D . in order to achieve vibrant , true to life colors , I used to crank the saturation control on the older camera to the max . This one seems to achieve true and vibrant colors on standard pic mode . . . however this standard pic mode , also cranks saturation to high : )
Pictures noise : very low noise on high ASA / ISO setting . I read several reviews stating that compared to EOS 40D this camera is more noisy . I do not know the 40D much , but compared to 10D , this camera shines at high ISO settings . I used ISO 3200 and pics are very smooth . At Hi sensitivity setting ( presumed ISO 6400 ) , the noise is visually comparable to ISO 1600 settings on the older camera ( on a 23 LCD computer screen ) . I did not try yet the 12800 ( Hi - 2 ) setting , but I have heard it is noisy .
Resolution : 15 mpixels . . . WOW ! Images are razor sharp and extremely detailed . I did quite well with 6 mpixels on EOS 10D but this is amazing .
Flash card read / write speed : I am using Sandisk Extreme III flash memory cards . It may be even better with Extreme-IV series . Transfer speed from the camera body to the PC and also using a Sandisk extreme USB 2.0 reader , extremely high . Files simply zap , even 20 MB RAW files . . . Amazing !
Well done Canon ! I am extremely pleased with this camera . I may however be not the most demanding or critical person in reviewing this camera body .
And Amazon did a nice job with a very competitive price ( for a US model camera ) and by shipping and delivering in just 2 days ( with special annual membership plan ) .
018 4 There is NO way the 50D should be rated less than 4 stars . We have both 40D and a 50D bodies and have all L lens except for our 50mm 1.4 . The 50D is sharper than my 40D and the images are not soft . The images are no more noisy than my 40D . As sensor density increases , so too does noise at very high ISO settings . However , the few times you have to use high ISO settings to even get an image , just reducing the 50D image to the pixel dimensions of the 40D results in very similar noise levels and the 50D retains better sharpness and details . The 50D AF System - AF Points ( 1 Cross Type ) + 6 AF Assist Points is very similar to the new 5d Mark II . The DIGIC 4 Image Processor ; LCD 920,000 dots Monitor , New Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit and Lens Peripheral Illumination Correction alone are worth the upgrade . The 50D is the best Canon DSLR for the money .
Major features :
New DIGIC 4 Image Processor ; Clear View LCD 920,000 dots Monitor ; Live View Function with Face Detection Live Mode ; Quick Mode AF , Live Mode AF ; AF Microadjustment ; ISO capabilities up to 12800 ; HDMI Output ; Lens Peripheral Illumination Correction ; Multi-controller ( joystick ) Quick Control Screen Illumination Correction ; New Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit
019 4 I'm a beginner and love this camera ! I had read the negative reviews , as well as the positive ones , but decided to buy it anyway . I took a risk and now I'm being rewarded - this camera takes fantastic pictures . It's easy to learn and use also . I also bought two great lenses ( 135mm f / 2L , 24 - 70mm f / 2.8L ) which bring out the best in this camera . Don't listen to the negative stuff , this camera takes awesome pictures !
020 4 To date , I have owned several Canon DSLR cameras . I've owned the Rebel XT & XTi , I've owned the 1D , 5D , 60D , 30D , 40D and now I own the 50D .
I will start with the CON aspect of the 50D ; It is not a full-frame camera . That's it ! Cons are finished .
On the positive side , I've never owned a better camera . Period .
The 50D is fast , shoots with VERY , VERY little noise , and offers the finest resolution I've experienced to date . Over the years I've moved from an intense amateur to now working as a photographer on a professional level . As such , I wanted the best tool I can find within my $1500.00 budget , the 50D allowed me success with money to spare .
What my bucks bought was a great camera I can use in low light quickly , as adjusting ISO is faster and easier than on my 40D . Also , in fast , sports like action , the camera allows for a quick , almost Shift on the Fly type focus . This is an outstanding tool for the sporting events I have been contracted to shoot .
I've found this to be a camera on which all of my lenses work , including my favorite 15mm F / 2.8 Fisheye . I am delighted with the simpler Live View function that now pops on with the push of a single button . I've found the HD Quality of the viewer allows me to more quickly assess the actual quality of my shot . And , with 15.5 MP , my shots have better definition , a richer , and more robust detail than ever before . This is even more evident when I print larger ( 13X19 and above ) , photos .
I recommend this camera as highly as I can recommend any technology , it's the best on the market today . I am sure that within the next 3 - 5 years , Canon will market a faster , more powerful camera perhaps using the newer DIGIC 5 processor , and a more dense field of mega-pixels . However , in cameras as with computer systems , one cannot wait for the Next Newer , Better item , you can only buy for today .
And , today . . . There is no better camera in it's class . If you need an upgrade your Canon product , or if you want to start with the finest affordable , professional camera on the market , this is IT .
021 4 I've had a lot of Canon cameras over the years , both film and digital , SLR and compact , and this is undoubedly the best so far . Compared to the Digital Rebel series , the camera feels solid and robust and the results I've had so far , using the EFS 18 - 55 IS lens , have been excellent . My previous camera was the Digital Rebel Xti and the improvement in image quality over this , using the same lens , is very noticeable , particularly in landscape images where there is a lot of contrast between areas of sunshine and shadow . The wide ISO range is also very impressive , allowing good shots to be taken hand-held in low light .
The controls are very easy to use ; I especially like the new Quick Control display and the multi-controller used to navigate it . I like the HDMI output too , which lets me view the pictures as a slideshow in High Definition on my tv . ( Money-saving tip : Radio Shack sell a mini-HDMI / HDMI adapter , which allows me to use a standard HDMI cable to connect the camera to the television - much cheaper than Canon's HTC100 cable ) .
I don't use the Live View option ( I'm old-fashioned and prefer to look through the viewfinder ) but I can see it could be useful in some circumstances , like close-up photography .
I was thinking of upgrading to the 40D but decided to wait for the 50D to be released and I'm very glad I did . Highly recommended .
022 4 I am about 1,000 images into the new 50D . So far it's been a pleasure . I am switching from a Nikon D200 . Nikon , to me , has superior ergonomics - the buttons and functions are so well thought out . Canon works well too but sometimes I feel like I need to be double jointed to change a setting . I do not like the wheel on top ; the silver color is not great and it turns to easily . I have switched modes in the middle of shooting and not known it . But , the camera feels solid , the screen is absolutely amazing , the menus are super easy to navigate , the 6 frames per second is impressive . 15 megapixels ; well , you only need it if you are printing larger than 20 or so . I've done 26 prints with a 10 megapixel , and if you know what you are doing and use a great printer it's flawless . As for low noise - well , it's low , but I'm not blown away . Remember all your lenses will be 1.6 times their focal length , so it's hard to go wide angle with this camera . But , it's easy to get super tele photo . I use it with the 24 - 105 L lens , which costs almost as much as the camera is worth it .
This decisions is tricky - it's very solid , I recommend it . But if I were a first time DSLR buyer right now looking at mid-range cameras , Canon has no advantage over Nikon . The D90 is terrific and cheaper , the D300 and D700 are amazing . Why did I switch to Canon ? Simply because I like their lenses better on the high end . The Nikon 80 - 400 is slow as a dog , although sharp . I would much rather have the Canon 100 - 400 L . Nikon's high end lenses seem to be a little more expensive , and frankly , there are fewer out there so they are harder to find , new or used .
Good luck , happy shooting , this a great camera .
023 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
Let me start by stating that the product was loosely packaged by Amazon.com . I recall another customer mentioning the samething . Hopefully , Amazon will read this and review their packaging procedures . However , Canon's foam packaging within the box made sure that nothing happened . Also , everything that was supposed to be included by Canon was . Nothing was missing . I must say , however , that more than not , Amazon does an excellent job of packaging their orders and seeing that the product is delivered on time .
Before I go any further , I do need to say that I own a Canon Rebel XSI and will from time to time be making a comparison between the 50D and the XSI . I purchased the 50D for approx . $1060 and the XSI for $550 . As soon as I placed the battery and a lense on the 50D I could notice a distinct difference in weight and a obvious sense that this camera was built to last a long time , as compared to the lightweight XSI , which has a plastic feel . The 50D also felt very nice and secure in my hands .
The ergonomics of the 50D was easy to get used to after spending a brief amount of time with it . Most of functions can be easily accessed with the two dials and the buttons are well placed . I've had the camera for a month now and have not accidently pushed or moved anything that has caused the camera to reset itself . However , I do question Canon's decision to use two on positions : one for auto / semi-auto and the other for manual . Some of the features which distinguishes the 50D from the XSI deals with the 920,000 mp LCD display , the 1 / 8 , oooth sec . shutter speed which allows you to use a wider aperture in the daylight allowing for a magnificent DOF ( depth of field ) , as well as a better noise reduction system letting the user use a 800 ISO setting indoors while still retaining a nice quality image , whereas the XSI can only be used for up to 400 ISO before seeing a degradation of the image due to noise and its shutter speed only goes to 1 / 4,000 sec . However , when both cameras are used up to 400 ISO , most of us wouldn't be able to see the difference in image quality to be honest .
Another important advantage which the 50D has over it's predecessors , as well as cameras by other manufacturers , is it's autofocus.I've been able to quickly focus on objects in dimly lit areas where I wasn't able to with other cameras . Time and time again , I've been very pleased with it's low light focusing capabilities . Not only that , but its autofocus lock has to be one of the best , if not the best , in it's class . Very rarely do I experience any backfocus issues with this camera , whereas with the XSI it's a common problem . What I also enjoy using with this camera is the custom white balance which is necessary from time to time in the studio since various flashes and backgrounds can create situations causing the camera to get off white balance . Canon has made this procedure very easy . You simply take a picture of a neutral grey background , select the custom white balance on the menu , then press the white button on the top of the camera . Now , I have had a few err messages which has been noted by other owners , but they have been few . Out of about 40,000 shots so far , I've gotten 3 err messages . I simply turn the camera off and detach the battery for approx . 30 sec . and put it back in and turn the camera on and everything is okay .
There's no question that in regards to build quality , the 50D is a winner . Not only when compared to the XSI , but also with other cameras in its class . It'll definitely out last and be able to withstand the elements better than the XSI . It's abilty to focus quickly in low light situations and hold its focus is without comparison . Not only that , but with the 920,000 mp LCD display , 1 / 8,000th sec . shutter speed , and improved noise reduction system , professionals and semi-pros alike can make good use of this capable camera . But if you're a beginner , or enthusiast , you may want to consider the XSI and use the $500 you save on memory cards , a good lense , or the 580 EX II flash . Either way , you can't go wrong with the 50D or the XSI .
024 4 Let me start by stating that the product was loosely packaged by Amazon.com . I recall another customer mentioning the samething . Hopefully , Amazon will read this and review their packaging procedures . However , Canon's foam packaging within the box made sure that nothing happened . Also , everything that was supposed to be included by Canon was . Nothing was missing . I must say , however , that more than not , Amazon does an excellent job of packaging their orders and seeing that the product is delivered on time .
Before I go any further , I do need to say that I own a Canon Rebel XSI and will from time to time be making a comparison between the 50D and the XSI . I purchased the 50D for approx . $1060 and the XSI for $550 . As soon as I placed the battery and a lense on the 50D I could notice a distinct difference in weight and a obvious sense that this camera was built to last a long time , as compared to the lightweight XSI , which has a plastic feel . The 50D also felt very nice and secure in my hands .
The ergonomics of the 50D was easy to get used to after spending a brief amount of time with it . Most of functions can be easily accessed with the two dials and the buttons are well placed . I've had the camera for a month now and have not accidently pushed or moved anything that has caused the camera to reset itself . However , I do question Canon's decision to use two on positions : one for auto / semi-auto and the other for manual . Some of the features which distinguishes the 50D from the XSI deals with the 920,000 mp LCD display , the 1 / 8 , oooth sec . shutter speed which allows you to use a wider aperture in the daylight allowing for a magnificent DOF ( depth of field ) , as well as a better noise reduction system letting the user use a 800 ISO setting indoors while still retaining a nice quality image , whereas the XSI can only be used for up to 400 ISO before seeing a degradation of the image due to noise and its shutter speed only goes to 1 / 4,000 sec . However , when both cameras are used up to 400 ISO , most of us wouldn't be able to see the difference in image quality to be honest .
Another important advantage which the 50D has over it's predecessors , as well as cameras by other manufacturers , is it's autofocus.I've been able to quickly focus on objects in dimly lit areas where I wasn't able to with other cameras . Time and time again , I've been very pleased with it's low light focusing capabilities . Not only that , but its autofocus lock has to be one of the best , if not the best , in it's class . Very rarely do I experience any backfocus issues with this camera , whereas with the XSI it's a common problem . What I also enjoy using with this camera is the custom white balance which is necessary from time to time in the studio since various flashes and backgrounds can create situations causing the camera to get off white balance . Canon has made this procedure very easy . You simply take a picture of a neutral grey background , select the custom white balance on the menu , then press the white button on the top of the camera . Now , I have had a few err messages which has been noted by other owners , but they have been few . Out of about 40,000 shots so far , I've gotten 3 err messages . I simply turn the camera off and detach the battery for approx . 30 sec . and put it back in and turn the camera on and everything is okay .
There's no question that in regards to build quality , the 50D is a winner . Not only when compared to the XSI , but also with other cameras in its class . It'll definitely out last and be able to withstand the elements better than the XSI . It's abilty to focus quickly in low light situations and hold its focus is without comparison . Not only that , but with the 920,000 mp LCD display , 1 / 8,000th sec . shutter speed , and improved noise reduction system , professionals and semi-pros alike can make good use of this capable camera . But if you're a beginner , or enthusiast , you may want to consider the XSI and use the $500 you save on memory cards , a good lense , or the 580 EX II flash . Either way , you can't go wrong with the 50D or the XSI .
025 4 | am an advanced amateur with a good experience with Canon equipments ( 40D , 5D plus 5 L lens ) and 15 years shooting mainly landscape and wildlife .
After a Safari to Africa , I realized I needed two things
- Higher ISO capacity to get better shots on the dark . Even with my 70 - 200 2.8 IS I missed some great shoots because ISO 3200 was not high enough
- More resolution to crop bird pictures that my 40D with a 100 - 400L could not fill the whole frame
So the 50D seemed like the perfect upgrade to my next photo safari to Tanzania . It have all the specs I wanted plus some cool features such as the VGA view .
After three days using the camera I am glad I bought it . I can not compare this camera to the Nikon , since all my gear are Canon , but compared to the 40D and the 5D the performance of this camera is great ( it have more noise than the 5D but it is much more user friendly and 6.3 pictures per s is perfect for wildlife ) .
Highly recommended !
026 4 I was on the fence for awhile on whether I should purchase a new lens or camera body . So I decided to upgrade my lens first and purchased the 25 - 70 f2.8L and saw a nice improvement with my Rebel XTi . But it left me still wanting more detail and I was still not satisfied with the limited options I had available for manual settings / adjustments . Then I purchased the 50D body and WOW what a difference . The pictures are so amazingly clear and crisp . The 50D has never had another lens attached to it . The larger grip and layout is also fantastic and simply feels more comfortable to me to hand hold . I now use the camera for still life studio work , family photos and chasing my daughters as they play outdoor soccer ( for closer shots ) and indoor basketball ( amazing pictures without a flash ) . Worth every penny !
027 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
this made a fine upgrade from an ailing eos 20d . i appreciate the direct compatibility of my existing canon flash , compactflash media , my lenses , and my batteries . i like the eos 50d's high-speed mode , the automatic ISO option , and the shutter-speed-bracketing for HDR .
my only small grievance is the ease with which the mode-selection dial can be altered , i've accidentally switched the camera out of my preferred mode several times , only to notice several minutes or several hours later . ouch .
028 4 this made a fine upgrade from an ailing eos 20d . i appreciate the direct compatibility of my existing canon flash , compactflash media , my lenses , and my batteries . i like the eos 50d's high-speed mode , the automatic ISO option , and the shutter-speed-bracketing for HDR .
my only small grievance is the ease with which the mode-selection dial can be altered , i've accidentally switched the camera out of my preferred mode several times , only to notice several minutes or several hours later . ouch .
029 4 Wow . . . . this is a great camera . I've owned and used several Canons and a couple of Nikons over the years and I think this is the fastest camera I've ever used . Generally I use manual focus on everything , but the focus is so fast and so accurate that I have barely used manual . The LCD screen has beautiful resolution and can actually be used to get a feel for how you're pictures look , it's as clear as a computer screen . Most of the menu functions are easy to find and change on the fly , which is nice . It's a very smart camera so for those who don't like to use manual settings the creative feature is nice as you can instantly control your apeture and shutter speed as well as get a screen capture before you take a shot to see what it looks like . This camera is far superior to the 40D and any of the Rebels . The pictures are as crisp and colorful as can be with the camera right out the box and only get better as you customize and fine tune your settings . I've been shooting in RAW with L glass for the last week and can't get over how next to perfect this camera makes your shots . Just a great camera by Canon , especially for the price . . . . the XSi is nice ( better than the 40D I think ) . . . . . but this is the Canon to get . . . . . . Oh yeah did I mention that this thing is superfast and can give you large size prints that look great ! ! !
030 4 I purchased a 50D because I do a fair amount of bird photography , and I thought that the additional pixel count in this camera would yield better images , and also allow for more cropping room . While the images were very good , they really weren't any better than those I have taken with my 40D . I was also disappointed with the high ISO performance of the 50D , as I thought the 40D was just as good or better .
Even so , the 50D is still a very good camera . If you are upgrading from a 10 , 20 , or 30D , you will notice substantial improvement in features and better image quality . If you have a 40D , I think it becomes tougher to justify the upgrade . In the end , I decided to return my 50D and take advantage of Amazon's excellent return policy .
032 4 I own a Canon 20D and debated for a while in getting the Canon 50D . I finally made the purchase and it was well worth it . I still love my 20D but the 50D resolution and better noise control is awesome . The 50D is also more intelligent when I do not use the manual mode . The sensor clean is also a bonus .
The battery life is very impressive and rarely need to use my two back-ups unless in the wild for some time . I managed to take over 1000 no-flash pictures for a football game with the same battery . So when the photo taking gets heavy , nothing is better when you do not have to worry about the battery all the time .
With this camera I have reliability like no other .
033 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18 - 200mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
I purchased the Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18 - 200mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS Standard Zoom Lens just over a month ago . It is by far the best camera I've ever had . The quality of the pictures is fantastic and the one lens does all is even better .
I've had the Digital Rebel with multiple lenses which I loved but this is much better . Prior to that I had a Canon sure shot digital prior to that and a Minolta Maxxum 7000 film camera with multiple lenses before going digital . The 50D is a more professional camera with multiple functions and ease of use . I am still learning all its features . I bought an Aputure remote to go with it and I all ready had a Canon 430EX flash which works great as well .
This is a great camera !
034 4 I purchased the Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18 - 200mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS Standard Zoom Lens just over a month ago . It is by far the best camera I've ever had . The quality of the pictures is fantastic and the one lens does all is even better .
I've had the Digital Rebel with multiple lenses which I loved but this is much better . Prior to that I had a Canon sure shot digital prior to that and a Minolta Maxxum 7000 film camera with multiple lenses before going digital . The 50D is a more professional camera with multiple functions and ease of use . I am still learning all its features . I bought an Aputure remote to go with it and I all ready had a Canon 430EX flash which works great as well .
This is a great camera !
035 4 This review is aimed at my fellow amateurs , first time DSLR buyers who want to take their new cameras out shooting pictures of bugs , their kids , and their vacations . I like my Canon EOS 50D very , very much . I've owned it for three months , I've traveled several thousand miles with it , and I've shot over 2,000 pictures in conditions ranging from swampy humidity to dry cold to light rain and fog . I've tried it out in low-light interiors without flash , I've used zoom and macro lenses to shoot birds , insects , flowers , landscapes , and my children at play , and I've been very pleased with its performance and durability across the board .
The 50D menus are easy to navigate . They're simply and logically laid out . They don't make the instruction manual unnecessary ( far from it ) , but they make it very easy for me to find menu items without looking them up . The three-inch , high-resolution LCD panel is stunning . It makes reading the menu items easy on my aging eyes , even in bright sunlight , and it allows me to see clearly the images I've shot . The zoom feature for image playback is very easy to use , and when the image is blown up to maximum size on the screen , the multi-controller button makes navigating around it easy as well . Easy is the word I keep using here , and it applies to just about every feature of this camera .
I like the placement of the various buttons and controls . My wife does not . I'm tall with long and slender fingers ; my wife is not tall and her hands are not large . For me this camera just feels right , and my fingers move naturally to the controls . My wife says the camera feels too bulky and she thinks the controls are awkwardly placed . She hasn't actually gone out to to take pictures with it and has only held it to see what it's like , but I think it's a safe bet that she wouldn't choose the 50D as her camera .
The battery life is good . On my last trip I was able to shoot around 600 pictures before I had to install the second battery . I didn't use the LCD monitor to compose my shots , I didn't make much use of the flash , and I made sparing use of the lens-stabilization feature , but I did spend a few minutes each night looking at the day's pictures on the LCD monitor as I decided which ones to get rid of . I've spent the last week trying to take pictures of hummingbirds in my backyard with the zoom lens fully extended , so I've been using stabilization with every shot and it eats up battery fast . The camera powers down when I don't use it for a minute , but it comes back on the instant I hit the shutter button . I tend not to turn it off with the on / off switch when I'm carrying it around , just to let it power down on its own . The one problem I sometimes run into is that it's easy to hit the playback button by accident ( it bumps against my hip at just the right ( or wrong ) angle when the camera is hanging from my shoulder ) , and when that happens the display comes on and stays on until I turn it off . I've been out walking and several times looked down to see that big , bright LCD panel showing the last picture I shot , eating up power as if I had a pocket full of batteries . I could just turn the camera off between shots ( when I turn it on it's ready to take pictures by the time I get the viewfinder up to my eye ) but for some reason I prefer to grumble and turn the screen back off .
I haven't commented on the pictures this camera takes . Those depend crucially on the lens you use . I bought a Tamron 18 - 270mm zoom lens , and I've borrowed a friend's 60mm Canon macro lens and a lower end telephoto . The 15 megapixel sensor will show every weakness of your lens . My Tamron does a very nice job , but that telephoto was bad . The macro has been adequate , but I'm going to save my pennies to buy the very best I can when I get my own . I wouldn't settle for one of the standard kit lenses that are often sold with DSLRs . They can take nice pictures with a smaller sensor , but with the larger sensor in this camera they're a non-starter . I wouldn't buy this camera without setting aside about the same amount of money to buy a lens for it . My only other comment on picture-quality has to do with the ISO . I've had no problem at all taking indoor shots without flash . At ISO 1600 the pictures are nice and clear . At 3200 they're a little grainy , but not bad . I haven't tried the expansion to 6400 or 12,800 , and I'm sure the images they produce are probably pretty grainy , but it's nice to know that I can go there if I have to . If I'm taking a picture of my daughter during her dance recital from the back of a badly lit auditorium , a bit of noise is okay if I still get the shot .
I had one problem with this camera that I could and should have avoided . I bought a Canon because I already had a very good lens on my Canon EOS Elan II , a film camera that I loved but hadn't used much in the last seven years since my wife game me a digital point-and-shoot for my birthday . I decided I wanted to start taking photography more seriously and wanted a DSLR camera , after considerable research I decided that the Canon and Nikon products were very closely comparable , and I decided to be fiscally responsible by going with a Canon so that I wouldn't have to buy a new lens right away . Imagine my distress when I discovered that my Sigma lens wouldn't work properly on my new camera - no autofocus and a frozen aperture . The problem , I'm told , is that Sigma doesn't pay a licensing fee to Canon , so there are issues with compatibility as Canon updates its line . I don't blame Canon for this , but had I known about the compatibility problem , it might have changed my cost / benefit calculation in favor of Nikon . Probably not , but the lesson is that one shouldn't just check to see that lenses are forward compatible , but that a particular manufacturer's lenses are forward compatible . I stopped investigating when I learned that EF-mount lenses were compatible with an EFS-mount camera , and that was a mistake .
There's a lot more I could write about this camera , but that's probably better covered by more technically knowledgeable reviewers . The bottom line is that I am very pleased with my EOS 50D . I'm having a great time learning to use it and I'm finding that it offers more than I can actually take full advantage of ( it gives me a great deal of room to grow ) . It's ruggedly built , easy to use , nice to handle . And my wife just informed me that if I'm very good , Santa just might bring me that macro lens I'm wanting . It's time for me to stop writing and go wash dishes .
036 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
This review is for the beginner / hobbiest to the advanced amateur . . . this is simply a wonderful camera .
The 50D is very intuitive , not the least bit indimidating , and surprisingly easy to use considering the more advanced features Canon has put into it . I have not spent a lot of time learning all that this camera can do yet , but I am encouraged by the camera and it practically asks you do learn more about it . . . it wants you to take great pictures . I have always shot with a Canon , but this is my first DSLR ( film die hard till the end ) and I have been thrilled .
I left for a vacation in Curacao 3 days after opening the box so I had to learn on the fly ( literally on the flight ) and I was amazed how quickly the camera felt like I had owned it for years . I also discovered how addictive shooting digital can be ( 8GB minimum is a must ) so I just the let the shutter burn and ended up taking over 1000 photos over 8 days .
On the coastline I put the camera in continuous mode and the high burst rate practically gave me video of the waves crashing into the shore when you view the photos in rapid succession . This camera was a lot of fun . . . it makes you want to do more because it can .
Feel free to check out some of my photos in the customer images page . I do not have the technical knowledge or skills of some of the other reviewers which seems to be an advantage to me . This seems like it will be a great camera to continue to develop my skills with .
I have been very pleased with my purchase and I am confident anyone else would be too .
037 4 This review is for the beginner / hobbiest to the advanced amateur . . . this is simply a wonderful camera .
The 50D is very intuitive , not the least bit indimidating , and surprisingly easy to use considering the more advanced features Canon has put into it . I have not spent a lot of time learning all that this camera can do yet , but I am encouraged by the camera and it practically asks you do learn more about it . . . it wants you to take great pictures . I have always shot with a Canon , but this is my first DSLR ( film die hard till the end ) and I have been thrilled .
I left for a vacation in Curacao 3 days after opening the box so I had to learn on the fly ( literally on the flight ) and I was amazed how quickly the camera felt like I had owned it for years . I also discovered how addictive shooting digital can be ( 8GB minimum is a must ) so I just the let the shutter burn and ended up taking over 1000 photos over 8 days .
On the coastline I put the camera in continuous mode and the high burst rate practically gave me video of the waves crashing into the shore when you view the photos in rapid succession . This camera was a lot of fun . . . it makes you want to do more because it can .
Feel free to check out some of my photos in the customer images page . I do not have the technical knowledge or skills of some of the other reviewers which seems to be an advantage to me . This seems like it will be a great camera to continue to develop my skills with .
I have been very pleased with my purchase and I am confident anyone else would be too .
038 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
I am a professional wedding photographer and purchased this camera as a backup camera in February 2009 before going to shoot a Puerto Rico wedding . I have owned Canon Rebel , Canon 20D , Canon 30D , Canon 50D , and Canon 5D MkII , and this 50D is by far the worst of all of them . I feel a little stupid for taking this long to realize that the camera quality is this awful . It is not my main camera , and when I have used it just for convenience of not having to switch lenses as often , I am ALWAYS disappointed with the picture quality . It doesn't seem to matter what the ISO is set to . . . ISO 100 or ISO 2000 , the picture always has noise . No matter what lens I have ( which I have a large collection of Canon L lenses ) , the picture is never sharp and crisp . All this time I've never paid much attention . . . most of the time I just thought it was user error somehow . Recently a fellow photographer friend mentioned that the Canon 50D was said to have bad reviews for the noise and picture quality . . . the reason being because they packed too much mega pixels into it . More pixels does NOT mean better quality on the smaller sensor cameras . I've had it too long to return now . . . so I'm just stuck with a crappy camera . I've actually gone back to using my 30D and 20D cameras as backups . When my budget is plump , I'm definitely splurging on another Canon 5D MkII . I love that camera so .
040 4 For a long time Canon user , this camera turned out to be an extreme disappointment . Over the years I trained myself ( and suspect many other folks did ) to not sallivate over Nikon bodies , instead concentrating on what matters - the sensor , quality lens lineup , and affordability that Canon has always offered in its semi-pro DSLRs . With 50D , all that is gone .
1 . The sensor : has higher noise and lower dynamic range compared to predecessor ( 40D ) , competition ( D90 ) and cheaper models ( Rebel XSi ) - I ran my own tests , but don't take my word for it and check other photography sites . I would like to remind to all those who say that the image quality is still decent that one of the main reasons one buys a DSLR is to use it for available light photography . So what if the sensor now has 15 megapixels and gapless microlenses , if a shot of a sleeping child in a dimly lit room turns out worse than with a camera costing $400 - $600 less ? What exactly are you paying for ? Of course , you can downsample all you want , but the end result is a 7.5 megapixel image ( or even less ) - what kind of progress is that ?
2 . Gigantic RAW files . If you shoot JPEGs , don't bother . I shoot RAW almost exclusively and with 50D the RAW files are on average 20 - 30MB . They will fill up an average size hard drive in no time . A typical photo shoot , say a soccer game , will require 2 - 3 standard capacity DVDs to archive . Of course , now there is sRAW support , but even though picture size is halved , the files themselves are not much smaller . And then again , you paid for 15MP camera , right ? If Canon intended to use full 15MP for , umm , landscape photography , then you will probably be better off by carrying one of those 14MP point-and-shoots for such occasions . And don't think that upgrading your hard drive and buying a drum of DVDs will set you up . . . RAW files now take 2 - 3 times longer to process ( at least in Canon's DPP ) , so a whole new computer might be in order . It woudn't be an issue , if the image quality were superior , but it is in fact worse .
3 . Little to no improvement in auto-focus performance . Again , if you mostly shoot buildings and trees and posing brides amd grooms , never mind . Even birds are palatable . For action / sports photography , wiggly children , difficult scenes with complex foreground-background mix , the results will be no better than with any prior Canon , which is to say you'll be lucky if your keeper rate is above 50% ( or if you don't mind an occasional blur , after all , with 15MP one can downsample that much more : ) )
4 . No improvement in metering system and still no proper implementation of Auto ISO selection . It's 2008 , but you are still getting the same ( read : unreliable ) functionality as back in 2000 . Enough said .
To conclude : I wouldn't be harping too much - after all , as I mentioned there is no perfect DSLR bodies , and eventually one learns to live with their limitations - but the turn Canon took with 50D is just deplorable . There is simply no use case for 15MP cropped sensor DSLR . I could already print near poster size prints from XSi files . For web publishing , you really need 6 - 8MP tops . The areas that needed improvement remain the same as they were years ago . In the meantime the competition keeps marching forward . All you get with 50D is a nicer LCD and more megapixels that you will ever need or be able to handle . Put the megapixel count aside , and quite simply , 50D is lagging behind much of the competition . If you do not have a large investment in Canon lenses , you will really be better off looking elsewhere .
043 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
I decided recently to upgrade from a Rebel XT ( which I've used for the past three years ) to the 50D , and as usual , Canon has produced a solid , quality product . It is definitely a good move up from the Rebel , even though I was very happy with my Rebel while I was using it . I do wish Canon would bring in a few more of the features you get on a Nikon in the same price range , but Canon is a good , reliable brand .
044 4 I decided recently to upgrade from a Rebel XT ( which I've used for the past three years ) to the 50D , and as usual , Canon has produced a solid , quality product . It is definitely a good move up from the Rebel , even though I was very happy with my Rebel while I was using it . I do wish Canon would bring in a few more of the features you get on a Nikon in the same price range , but Canon is a good , reliable brand .
047 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
I bought a 50D through Amazon.com in April , 2009 . On the first one , the autofocus would not work at all . I spent about $35 , for which I was never reimbursed , to send it back to Amazon.com . They sent me a replacement , which worked fine for about 6 months , then suddenly started producing corrupted , unreadable RAW files . I again spent about $35 , but this time sent it back to Canon to be repaired under the 1 - year warranty . They looked it over , supposedly found some problems of which I was not aware , fixed them , and then sent it back to me . After being returned from Canon , the problem with corrupted RAW files was still not fixed . This camera is getting ready to go back on a UPS truck for the 3rd time this year !
Advice to others : next time Canon comes out with a new body , please wait at least 1 year before purchasing it . Spend your money on L lenses or another brand instead of a higher-end camera body from Canon . It is especially important to avoid something with quality control as poor as that of the 50D . This many failures associated with only one unit is not a random problem , but strongly suggests a systemic problem . In the past year , the price of the 50D has dropped about $200 while the price of a 70 - 200 F / 2.8L has gone up about $100 . If I had known I was going to experience this many problems with this camera and only have photos marginally better than the XTi , I would have never ordered it in the first place . If you're going with Canon , get the L lenses with a cheap body .
048 4 I bought a 50D through Amazon.com in April , 2009 . On the first one , the autofocus would not work at all . I spent about $35 , for which I was never reimbursed , to send it back to Amazon.com . They sent me a replacement , which worked fine for about 6 months , then suddenly started producing corrupted , unreadable RAW files . I again spent about $35 , but this time sent it back to Canon to be repaired under the 1 - year warranty . They looked it over , supposedly found some problems of which I was not aware , fixed them , and then sent it back to me . After being returned from Canon , the problem with corrupted RAW files was still not fixed . This camera is getting ready to go back on a UPS truck for the 3rd time this year !
Advice to others : next time Canon comes out with a new body , please wait at least 1 year before purchasing it . Spend your money on L lenses or another brand instead of a higher-end camera body from Canon . It is especially important to avoid something with quality control as poor as that of the 50D . This many failures associated with only one unit is not a random problem , but strongly suggests a systemic problem . In the past year , the price of the 50D has dropped about $200 while the price of a 70 - 200 F / 2.8L has gone up about $100 . If I had known I was going to experience this many problems with this camera and only have photos marginally better than the XTi , I would have never ordered it in the first place . If you're going with Canon , get the L lenses with a cheap body .
049 4 I've used Canon equipment and other brands , but Canon has always been my favorite , since the mid 60 ' s . And I was an early adopter for the switch to digital , although I stuck with film for my serious work until the pixel count got high enough for a decent 5 X 7 . Then I put away my film camera for good .
I upgraded my camera frequently until I got the Canon 20D . I stuck with the 20D until now . The 30D and 40D just didn't add enough in features or pixel count to entice me . But the 50D tipped the scale and I again upgraded . And I'm glad that I did . It's a great camera , worth the asking price .
What's so great about it ? Simple , features and pixels . You can read all of the technical stuff elsewhere , but the automatic modes and the program modes just work . Yes , I know all about depth of field and manual controls from the days when that all that there was , if you wanted good pictures . But nothing beats the landscape , portrait , or macro settings on a Canon camera . If you want a portrait , set the dial . The camera sets the depth of field properly and you can concentrate on your subject , not the camera . Same goes for the other auto modes . The camera balances every setting in the same way that I used to do it . So why not let the camera do the work ? I really tough situations , I will switch to the program mode to gain a little more control , but that's not often .
There has been a lot of noise in the last year or two about the idea that pixel count doesn't matter . Don't let ' em fool you . Talk like that is just a way to justify selling an inferior product . Oh , they're right , if you want a 4 X 5 snapshot . Even some phone cameras today can give you that . And a pro can get by with 8 or 9 MP , if they don't want to crop the photo after it's been shot . But for me , 15 MP is the minimum for a good camera .
Why do I want at least 15 MP ? That's easy , I want pixels to throw away . I shoot landscapes , animals , people and flowers . Usually at a fast pace . I can't spend a whole day , or a week , on one perfect shot , although I know photographers who do . I see a shot , I shoot it and I move on . I make it perfect in post processing , on my computer ( and I only use Macs , for the same reason that I use Canon , they work ) . I do a lot of my composition after the fact , I throw away pixels . I crop out the extra stuff to get the right composition out of the shot .
My 50D lets me work fast , take a lot of pictures and keep far more than I throw away . I can use all of my collected lenses and that's another big plus . I have lenses , that I still use , from my old film camera .
Yes , I too , love my Canon 50D .
050 4 This will be short and sweet . Buy it ! ! !
I had a Canon EOS Rebel XSi which I loved . It really spoiled me for anything else . Someone decided I needed a new camera and bought the 50D for my 65th birthday ( I couldn't have afforded it otherwise ) . As I said I was spoiled by the XSi . When I opened the box and started playing with it , I thought I don't like this and that and it is too heavy ( I have some minor disabilities ) . I took it on a shoot and within two hours , the camera became an extension of my arm , eye , and mind . I can't imagine using anything else and I quickly adjusted to what I thought were problem areas . My only gripe is the multiselection button which could be larger or made the main wheel like it is on the XSi . But , even this I'm getting used to . the EF-S 18 - 200mm IS lens is a great all purpose lens and I love it . I go out every day and take 50 to 200 photos . I would not want to work with anything else .
051 4 I have 3 young children and have recently departed the realm of point-and-shoot through the Rebel XsI ( great camera ) . I was afraid of the size issue , of carrying a Dslr around and missing some good shots of the kids . However I was also disapointed at candid pics at their b-parties and indoor events ( Christmas especially ) for lighting ( poor ) and shutter speed . The XsI was a great camera , but once I decided that sometimes it is definetely worth to carry a bigger camera , I also decided to have a really excellent one , since the extra weight and size when you go the SLR route is basically the same . I still keep a Canon G10 in my personal bag at all times , but I have to say I LOVE my 50D ! ! ! !
I played with buying better lens for the Xsi ( including the L series , HUGE 24 - 70 for $1,100 , which I returned ) but first , the camera felt absolutely unbalanced , with its body being very plastic and light and the lens being super well built as a tank and heavy . Then , I am a pixel lover and if there is a 15 megapixel that I can easily afford by selling the Xsi , than I had to do it . But I struggled with the decision for weeks and long story short , got the 50D and also bought the L lens 24 - 105 ( $1,059 ) and I feel like I ARRIVED ! ! ! ! : o )
I am not a professional photographer by any means , and due to the constant activity of my kids , and wanting a natural pic , I always end up taking pics on full automatic mode . The pics out of this camera are absolutely gorgeous , sharp , and make me very happy of the purchase .
Amazon has the best price around and I researched everywhere . I bought the kit with the 28 - 135 lens , and am selling these lens on an auction sit - it gives me a profit ! But the pics from the kit lenses are also just wonderful , so don't feel you need to take the plunge on L lenses . I know a lot of professional photographers out there say that megapixels don't matter , well I discord since when you don't want your kids to pose and be un-natural , you want the ability to crop it a lot ! Plus the shutter speed is so awesome , that catches that little expression the moment it happens .
Hope this helps in your decision !
052 4 I upgraded from a 20D to the 50D and did not wait for the 5D2 . As others have remarked , most 20D accessories will work with the 50D including flashes , batteries and remote triggers .
My primary use is for aviation photography . This camera has quickly become the standard for sport shooting because of its fast ( 6.3 fps ) shutter rate and large buffer . Unless you are using raw ( recommended ) , you can shoot continuously with jpg . You need to be careful . With the 20D , it was easy to take single shots with the shutter in continuous shooting mode . With the 50D , the fast shutter will zip off numerous images with just a light touch .
The 1.6 crop factor works in my favor when shooting distant subjects , making a 400mm lens an effective 640mm . This has been an advantage for me even when using wider lenses . My 17 - 40L is fine for portraits on the long end at an effective 64mm . My 50mm 1.8 has produced some tack sharp images . Anyone who complains about this camera being soft has not been using quality glass .
The high resolution screen is amazing . I am not a big chimper , but I do like to check my images and histogram from time to time , and to review them after a shoot . I have not been a big fan of liveview , but this camera has advanced face recognition in that mode that will come in handy for the times when you need to hand the camera to a novice so you can get in the picture .
The 40D had a build quality that was similar to my 20D but the 50D seems to be a step up with better weather sealing . Working outdoors around airport ramps , my cameras get some hard use . The 50D looks like it is up to that task .
Be prepared when you buy this camera for large file sizes . My shots have averaged 20mb for raw and 10mb for jpg . That will fill up your memory cards , and hard disks , in a hurry . For the wonderful images that this camera produces , that is a small trade-off .
055 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
My only regret is that the price keeps dropping on this so I spent about $200 than I needed to . That said I was scared off by the eary reviews here that seem to be niggling compared to the B & H photo / video reviews that are almost 100 percent pro photographers . I am a professional photographer who spends more on glass and accessories than the camera body and have avoided the megapixel mania . I moved up from a Rebel XTi so I can't speak to the difference between the 40D and the 50D . This camera is fabulous compared to anything under $2,500 .
057 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
I have had my 50D for a little over 6 months now . I have no regrets whatsoever . I love the layout , the size , the capabilities . The kit lens works well enough for me until I have the cash for some fancy Canon L lenses .
I primarily chose this camera over other brands or even over the rebel T1i due to it's size . I have large hands and many other cameras felt awkwardly small to me . This one fit just fine . I also like that it has a little weight to it as it just feels more solid than the light weight plastic body cameras .
It does not have video but I really don't miss it . Right now I am busy learning about taking great photographs . If I ever master that maybe I'll upgrade to a new one that has it in the future .
If you are just a parent wanting to snap pictures of children or vacations then I would say this is probably overkill . If you are wanting to study photography as a hobby or even a profession then this camera is a good choice that should give you many years of use .
058 4 I have had my 50D for a little over 6 months now . I have no regrets whatsoever . I love the layout , the size , the capabilities . The kit lens works well enough for me until I have the cash for some fancy Canon L lenses .
I primarily chose this camera over other brands or even over the rebel T1i due to it's size . I have large hands and many other cameras felt awkwardly small to me . This one fit just fine . I also like that it has a little weight to it as it just feels more solid than the light weight plastic body cameras .
It does not have video but I really don't miss it . Right now I am busy learning about taking great photographs . If I ever master that maybe I'll upgrade to a new one that has it in the future .
If you are just a parent wanting to snap pictures of children or vacations then I would say this is probably overkill . If you are wanting to study photography as a hobby or even a profession then this camera is a good choice that should give you many years of use .
059 4 I don't understand the negative reviews regarding this product . I have used 1000d , 40d , and 5d . Just sold my 40d for 600dollars and added 300dollar because the price of the 50d is already 900 ! what a deal ! This camera is waay better than my 40d , I love the way it feels in my hand and the buttons and the LCD is worth enough to dump my obsolete 40D . I don't understand people complaining about the noise problem as compare to 40d , in my opinion they are the same great punchy color , just like other Canons that I used .
The plastic shell is of higher quality than the 40D and I noticed that the seams are more tight than my 40d .
Love this camera and have the 70 - 200 f2.8L IS USM version II semi permanently mounted to it , killer combo I can handheld indoor 1 / 8 second at ISO 200 !
Best bang for my buck this 50D !
Also added the Camera Armor , fits great and I don't understand why people complain about the fit .
060 4 After shooting with several point and shoot cameras ( Sony DSC T - 1 to the DSC T - 700 ) I was intrigued by the DSLR - motivated by the recent affordability and picture quality . Also , I'm a firm believer that it's the photographer and not the equipment that makes the shot . However , it's inescapable that a DSLR has a broader range of application and there are limitations inherent with the point and shoot . So , about a year ago . . . along comes the Canon 50d .
After shooting with the 50d for about one year , I'm still amazed by the increased picture resolution and sharpness . Additionally , the Canon implements a faster method to change the camera settings - instead of scrolling thru menus and making a selection , just push a button to instantly access a feature . That's it in a nut shell . . . versatility , quality , and ease of function . Fabulous integration of technology and art . I highly recommend the Canon 50d .
061 4 I have used my 50D with about 6 lenses so far , all of which I have also used on a 40D and a Rebel XTi . Without exception , the 50D produces noticeably sharper and brighter images than both previous cameras . I have read some of the reviews here claiming poor quality and graininess at high ISO ratings , but I have yet to see anything be crisp shots even at 1600 . I am using Canon 70 - 200mm f / 4L , Tokina 20 - 35 ATX Pro , Carl Ziess Sonnar 135mm f / 3.5 , Asahi Pentax SMC Takumar 50mm f / 1.4 , Canon EF-S 18 - 55mm Rebel Kit lens , and a Canon EF 28 - 80mm f / 2.8 - 4L USM ( older L series glass ) . Each lens produced superior results using the 50D in every situation except using the cheap glass . The Rebel did best on the cheap glass , probably due to reduced megapixels , and the 50D and 40D were comparable .
On the Auto Focus lenses , the low-light focus was far better lens-for-lens on the 50D especially with the assist from the 580 EX II on a flash shot . I did not expect the improvement in auto focus using the older lenses ( such as the Tokina ) , but there it was . I also noticed about a full stop better in terms of exposure . I tested in Auto , AV and Manual modes . The 50D selected a faster shutter and ISO making the same shot using the same lens than did the 40D , and not surprisingly , the XTi .
I am not a professional camera tester or review writer . I merely set up the same shot using a tripod and tested all three cameras on the same shot using the same lens , then I took a look in PhotoShop and decided which was best . I made 8 shots , 4 indoors and 4 outdoors , all using RAW mode except one shot using full auto . For the two flash shots I used a Speedlite 580 EX II so all three cameras had the advantage of a very good flash . The XTi , by the way , still did poorly even using the 580 EX II . It is just an awful indoor camera as far as I am concerned . But this review is about the 50D .
The first shot was outdoors , afternoon light , wooded area where trees were clear of leaves , late fall in NC . I took a shot of a planter that still had a couple of flowers in it where the sunlight was falling on it directly . I shot in Manual mode , ISO 200 , 50mm , 1 / 200 on a tripod . I adjusted only the aperture . On the 50D , I used f / 8 , on the 40D and had to open up to f / 4 and on the Rebel I had to open up to f / 3.5 . to get the same exposure value in the meter . I spotted with my Gossen Luna Pro and got a recommended setting of f / 4 , so the 40D was not underperforming , but the 50D was excelling !
I got similar results except in a low light interior shot without flash , I could not get the Tokina lens to focus in Auto mode using the Xti . The 40D churned a bit , but the 50D had no issues at all , it smoothly focused the lens . I manually set infinity before each shot , by the way .
I can't find one thing about the 40D that I like more than the 50D . I am selling it to pay off the bill on the 50D and keeping the Xti as a lightweight backup camera ( along with my beloved Elan IIe ) .
In short , the results I found in manual mode were that on the 50mm I could stop down about * two full stops * using the 50D as compared the the 40D and the XTi . Strangely , I tried this one shot on my Elan IIe and it compared with the 50D ! Film still rocks on some shots .
Using the 70 - 200mm f / 4L all three cameras performed well . The Xti required one stop wider on the same shots and produced a very grainy image at high iso ( 1600 ) , but it is not a fair comparison . The 40D produced grainier images in every high-ISO shot .
After conducting the comparison tests , I tried a low-end lens on the 50D , the 18 - 55mm EF-S Rebel kit lens . I noticed a lot more noise than I usually do with this lens . I reduced the size of the image to ~ 10MP to compare with the XTi and I still noticed a bit more noise . It does seem that the 50D is less forgiving of lower quality glass than the other two cameras , but the difference is not very noticeable unless the image is sized for 20x30 prints . One pass with the noise reduction filter cleared it up with very little loss of fidelity . My intended solution is to shoot with good glass .
The M42 manual lenses with an EOS adapter do VERY well on this Camera . I have not learned their ranges on the 50D yet , so I shot in AV mode and had excellent , even outstanding , results . The 50D LOVES the Zeiss Sonnar . The color and sharpness were astounding with a bounced ( 75 degree ) flash using the auto setting on the 580 EX II . Studio quality , seriously .
Well , that's all I have to say except I am very happy with this Camera . Canon keeps moving the ball forward . I am saving up for the 5D Mark III , since I assume the Mark II will be replaced before I can afford it : D
062 4 I have owned 20D and 30D prior to purchasing the 50D . I upgraded primarliy for the increased resolution and larger display size . Have taken many random shots to get a feel for menu and controls . 95% of my pictures stay digital ( archive , website , and BluRay slide shows . I find that the increased resolution to be readily apparent when viewed from BluRay DVD on a 50 plasma TV . The menuing still requires a learning curve , but more intuitive than prior generations . Live view is nice , but not something I will use much except for shooting over a crowd etc . Build quality is outstanding as in prior generations . Until I take my next trip will not have any more pertinant feedback . The one thing that I found to be a problem on prior generations stll exists , although I have never heard anyone else comment on it . Most of my photography is done on adventure trips ( Africa , Middle East , Thailand , etc ) . These are rough and tumble trips , bouncing around in open Land Rovers , Camelback etc , and I can't count in the thousands of photos I have taken , how may Once in a lifetime shots have been spoiled when a shot comes with no time for setup , and not notice until 20 shots later that the mode dial has been knocked to a position other than the one I thought it was on . It seems like a lock would be simple , but as I said this may just be me . I paired it with the Tamron VC digital zoom lens and feel that they pair well when such trips don't allow carrying extra equipment .
Considering that the 50D was about $400 cheaper than my 20D if feel that this a real value for the quantum leap in resolution , onboard processing power , increased LCD size , sensor cleaner etc . I find that the larger LCD is great for viewing shots , but for someone who wears glasses really helps navigate thorough the menus .
063 4 I love canon cameras , but they missed the mark on this one .
My 20D could produce sharper files than this camera . I have printed sharp 16x20 ' s from my 20D . I could not get the same quality from this camera . It has all the features I want , except at ISO 100 these files are soft . No matter which lens I use . Very disappointed and sending this camera back .
Thanks to Amazon for a great return policy . I will probably purchase a 40D until I can save up for a 5DMKII . DP review also confirms that even though its a bigger file it's not a sharp image .
Thanks Amazon !
064 4 Before the year is out , I thought I'd upgrade my Canon 30D to the Canon 50D , to take advantage of , among other reasons , the little tax right off . and the financing deal offered by Circuit City . But my financial objectives are not the reason I'm writing about Canon 50D.But my financial objectives are not the reason I'm writing about Canon 50D .
Since there are a plethora of articles already written about Canon's most recent EOS camera , I thought I'd point out some some function features of the camera that I have already found useful . Keep in mind , I've only had the camera less the 24 hours , but since this is my third Canon DSLR camera ( in addition to owning the Canon Powershot G9 ) , the features of this newest model are not foreign to me .
If you do a quick Google search about the 50D , you'll see that many reviews rightly compare the camera to it's predecessor , the 40D . There have been mixed reviews about how much better the 50D is than the 40D . I won't get into that because I never purchased the 40D . But if you're a 20 or 30D owner like myself , stepping up to the either 40D or the 50D is almost a no brainer , especially if you're a serious amateur or professional photographer .
The features of the 50D ( which can also be said for the 40D ) are very useful for shooters who take lots of pictures , especially in demanding situations . Canon has greatly streamlined the 50D , making controls and features easier to get at . And though image quality is of course primary in selecting a camera , the function features should not be overlooked . When you pay for a camera like this , you should definitely know and use all its features to your advantage .
So here a list of my first impression features that I would like to share . As I get more time to play around the camera , I will try to share others .
1 . Custom Menu : The 50D comes with a feature called Registering My Menu ( page 185 in the Manual ) which enables you to create a set of six of your favorite or most used menu items . After you select and set up the items , you can push the Menu button on the back of the camera , and your custom set of menu items will be the first to appear . So for instance if you use the Format , Quality , and Auto Bracketing menu items a lot , they will be included in your custom set which means you don't have to scroll to get at them . This little feature doesn't have anything to do with quality photos , but it does save you scrolling and clicking time . ( By the way , have you ever stopped and wondered how many times you click and scroll on your computer everyday ? It's worse than changing channels on your television . )
2 . Auto Rotate : With my Canon Powershot G9 , you can turn the camera in a vertical position and the image displayed will rotate into full screen viewing . When you tilt the camera back to horizontal position , the selected image will turn back to that position . It's totally sweet . Well , you can't do that with the 50D , and I'm bummed out about that . However , I did discover that you can turn off the auto rotation of vertical images on the 50D so that images will appear full screen in playback . You can do this so that the images only rotate on your camera and not on your computer . If you don't this , you simply don't get the full advantage of viewing your vertical images on the 3 screen . This is described on page 146 of the camera's manual .
3 . Quick Control Screen : Though I haven't used it much yet , I think I will like the Quick Control Screen feature of the camera . This feature displays camera settings on the LCD monitor . You can select items and change settings while viewing them in the monitor . This may prove quicker than viewing some of the exposure settings on the top side of the camera , or having to go into the menu and change settings there .
4 . Highlight Alert : I think all the digital EOS cameras have had a feature called Highlight Alert . When enabled , this alert ( when viewing photos in playback ) will point out areas of the selected image that are overexposed . Some camera users call this the blinkie feature . I used this feature all the time on the 30D , but you have to push the Info button to get at it , and the selected image in playback is almost thumbnail size , preventing you from getting good assessment of what is blown out . Well , that problem has been corrected in the 50D . Now you can get Highlight Alert while the image is played back in full screen mode . Totally lovely . Page 133 of the manual .
5 . Custom Mode Dials C1 and C2 : Similar to the custom menu feature I discussed above , this feature allows you to register a set of camera settings ( shooting mode , menus , etc . ) as presets and dial them up anytime you like simply by turning to the C1 or C2 positions on the camera's mode dial ( page 186 of the manual ) . I use this feature on my Canon G9 and it's great . I've read that the 40D has three , instead of just 2 , of these preset positions . Canon took away one of the positions on the 50D and replaced it with what they call Creative Auto mode . I haven't played with that mode yet , so I can't say if it's worth getting rid of one of the positions . But I do know that once you get your camera presets the way you want , these C1 and C2 positions can be quite handy . You could for example , have one position set for shooting outdoor photos and another position set for shooting indoors . Perhaps I'll write more about this later in another blog entry .
Well , that's my five function features that I like so far . I would have included the Live View feature in the list , but I haven't played around with it enough to like it . It's more clunky and difficult to use than on the G9 , in which I use the Live View all the time .
065 4 I had this camera + lens now for more than 4 months . . . i have taken this camera to its limit . . . this review will be the result of my test to this camera . also what i liked , disliked and also what i would hope for the next cameras . also how does this camera compare to it's rivals .
Section 1 : canon 50d camera review
1 : Image size and quality : -
for this camera . . . i believe that canon really invested a lot in the quality of the images of the sensor . the quality is just amazing . The color information and the contrast in the levels is just unbelievable , actually i don't believe that pictures are that awesome without any kind of post processing . and of course the 15 megapixels are worth it . at first i had a rebel and i didn't think that the extra 3 mega pixels will make a difference , but i was wrong . the 15 mega pixels is something entirely different from the 12 mega pixels . but keep in mind that the large mega pixel comes with a price . the size of the images are LARGE . i use 8gb CF cards , it takes almost 400 images . and also the compact flash is expensive cards if you are aiming for UDMA cards . Conclusion . . . if you are looking for a good image quality and you don't want to pay 2000 $ + i would say that this camera is the best choice .
2 : Camera Speed :
if there is one thing i really love about this body , it is the speed . I am not talking about the 6.3 frames per second , i am talking about the camera speed itself . processing , menus , image playback , shutter lag , start up time ; basically the time you take to change anything in the camera . it is extremely fast , u just can't keep up with her . also the auto focus is very fast ( this also partially the lens ) . but also the camera performance in terms of metering , focus adjust is also extremely fast . then of course , the 6.3 frames persecond . . . not the fastest in the market of course . but as far as i need . i don't think i will need more than this speed .
3 : Low light performance :
for me , this will be the only think missing from canon . there is no doubt that canon will lose in any comparison in low light conditions against Nikon . It is a fact that the Nikon cameras just produces amazing image quality at low light conditions than the canon does . However , the high ISO performance in the 50D is really acceptable . You get noise FREE images all the way up to 500 . noise is noticeable at 1000 . and of course after that it is noisy.i am talking about the 100% frame crops . the bottom line the high ISO performance of this camera is acceptable , but don't think that you will out-photograph a Nikon ( D90 ) guy in low light using this camera .
4 : Build quality :
the first thing that you pick on right after you hold this camera is the build quality . Instantly you feel like you are holding a machine , you feel the build quality of this camera . if you hold a D90 after this camera you feel like you are holding a toy . i think that it is the best you get for this price tag .
5 : Ergonomics :
Canon cameras are ugly . the first thing i thought when i held this camera a brick wall with buttons , also the big pain canon delivers with changing the layout and functionality of the buttons and the body outer design with each release . Canon is just still way behind in terms of ergonomics compared to Nikon . But don't worry , it is just one week of photography and you will get used to this camera . the problem will be if you are using another canon body . The body is indeed heavy , when i am doing a complete photography day , i usually get cramps in my arms at the end of the day . One key think i like about this camera is the back wheel ; much better in use than the Nikon's back dial .
6 : Ease of use :
if you are a canon user . . . u will be familiar with the organized menu system and options of the canon cameras . i find this camera very easy to use . to change the camera option between one shot and the other , i would say it is easy to use .
Soooo . . . to conclude . . . i think this camera is an extremely good investment if you are willing to put up with ugly ergonomics and you are not looking specifically for low light photography . Other than that this camera will perform extremely good in any other condition .
What i really hate :
- There is no wireless flash controller . The D90 has one , canon should strongly consider this option . already released in the 7d . . . but too late
- Some of the buttons in this camera doesn't make sense . ( the AF-on button , also the flash exposure button on the top of the camera )
- I HATE the CA mode . it is like canon is reminding us that this camera is not for serious photographers . It is for people who doesn't know nothing about photography . and this is a very big problem in the market message that canon is sending to it's customers . I mean who would pay 1200 $ in a camera if he doesn't have the basics of D-SLR photography , if this camera is for rookies , then why there is a rebel production line in the first place . same also with the 5D mark II , even it is embarrassing with the later .
- Some of the menu options just makes you angry . also doesn't make any sense .
that is about it . except from these points . . . i LOVE This camera .
before the end of the camera part i would like to mention a point for canon that not a lot of people are aware of . canon supplies their professional software for free with the camera . Nikon only provide a viewer . The canon Digital photo professional is an awesome tools . if you are shooting raw . then this would be the best . they keep enhancing it release after release and i find my self not using photoshop or lightroom any more .
This is as far as the camera goes .
now :
Section II : the 28 - 135 lens review :
i will try to be as fast as i can as this is getting to long
1 - Coverage range : when you start using this lens you would realize that this was targeted to the full frame cameras . the 28 is extremely narrow . if you are planing to get landscape images . . . FORGET it . the 135 on the other hand is really useful ( with the 1.6 factor ) . you get good zoom on this camera . . . like u are using a 70 - 200 on a full frame body . So this lens would make a great general purpose lens on a full frame body , however it is acceptable on this body .
2 - Quality & performance : this lens delivers nice sharp results , relatively accurate in terms of focusing and extremely fast . produces a very smooth bokeh detail when pushed to its lowest f stop . u see some chromatic aberrations around some edges in pictures which are not exposed correctly . i didn't feel any vignetting in the pictures . in all . . . this lens will deliver you an image with extremely satisfactory results . ( if you know how to adjust the camera options to make the most of it )
3 - Build quality : like the 50D , really good but really heavy . one thing i don't like about this lens is that if you are pointing it downwards , you find the barrel zooming in automatically ( cuz of the heavy glass element in the front ) . same thing happens if you are pointing it upwards .
i would suggest u get the lens hood , also a UV filter . the filter size is HUGE for a kit lens . and you will find it collecting lots of smudges and dust .
To conclude on all :
I love this camera , it's pros so much out weights its cons . i would suggest this camera for anyone who wants to get out of the rebel line , it would also make a great back up body for those using 1ds and 5ds . with relatively low price , and you will get a very satisfactory results . Don't believe the reviews talking about low quality images . wither they don't know how to use the camera , or they are using bad lenses .
finally . . . how much it compares to :
D90 : ( almost the same price 200 $ difference ) depends on what you want . if you are not looking for low light performance , then this is the camera for you .
D300 : it is not available anymore , as Nikon introduced the d300s which is aimed at a higher end market with much expensive price tag . i would go with this camera . at least canon still puts it in its camera list : - ) .
7D : if you have no problems spending extra 600 $ then of course get the 7d , all the cons in the 50d are gone in the 7D . but i would prefer to get a 50D then step up from it to a 5d MarkII .
well . . . that is it .
i hope this review was useful . i tried to outline all the things i really like and hate in this camera .
please feel free to comment and ask about anything in this review .
thanks
Mously
066 4 Let me start by saying that I consider 4 stars to be outstanding . I will reserve 5 stars for products that are incredible .
Now , I've only had this camera for a short time , so I will not be providing a detailed review just yet . I only want to address the issues with this camera's image quality .
The DEFAULT SETTINGS on this camera body produce a somewhat soft image . You can go into the Picture Style Settings and increase the sharpness to whatever strikes your fancy . The sharpness of the Standard Picture style is set to 3 out of 7 . Crank this up a couple of notches and fire away . Instant sharpness . You can change any of the settings of the Picture Styles this way . Very easy .
Please get an idea of what you've got and what you can do with it before giving such a good camera a bad review .
Of course , this does not apply to duds . It happens and the company will take good care of you if you get one . Buy with confidence .
067 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
I sold one of my boats to buy this camera . I spent 5 months reading every review I could find and visiting camera stores in each state I visited . I tested every model and brand out there and asked the opinions of various owners . I finally decided I liked the features of the Canon line . I waited for the 7D to hit the shelves and tried it out . I found that the added features were great but more than I needed at this point with my DSLR experience . I decided to spend the money I saved on good glass .
When the 50D arrived at my door I shot 300 photos the next day . The quality is superb . I love the sharpness and detail . With 15mp I can crop in close and still have sharp images . I opted to add the 70 - 300mm IS USM zoom to the 28 - 135mm kit lens and mounted on this camera I get the most beautiful nature photos . The kit lens has a bit of a cheap feel for an item carrying the canon nameplate but it takes nice photos .
I still have a lot to learn . If you are fairly new to this level of camera the manual , while very detailed , will leave you needing more . I chose to buy the Canon 50D book by David Busch and it's like having an instructor walking you through the cameras abilities .
I would recommend this camera to anyone . I am very pleased .
A few useful points :
1 ) While a very large camera the 50d fits very well in my hand . It is well designed and
I carry it all day in the woods without a strap .
2 ) THe eyecup positions your face right on the LCD and the skins oils will end up on the
screen . I fixed that with the hoodman eyecup .
3 ) Speaking of the LCD , what a beauty . The quality and detail is fantastic . Just be sure to
a good screen cover to protect it .
4 ) Oh hell , I could go on and on but I won't . This was the right camera for me and I am pleased with the purchase . Amazon was great . Saved a bundle of money that I will be using on accessories and lenses .
068 4 I sold one of my boats to buy this camera . I spent 5 months reading every review I could find and visiting camera stores in each state I visited . I tested every model and brand out there and asked the opinions of various owners . I finally decided I liked the features of the Canon line . I waited for the 7D to hit the shelves and tried it out . I found that the added features were great but more than I needed at this point with my DSLR experience . I decided to spend the money I saved on good glass .
When the 50D arrived at my door I shot 300 photos the next day . The quality is superb . I love the sharpness and detail . With 15mp I can crop in close and still have sharp images . I opted to add the 70 - 300mm IS USM zoom to the 28 - 135mm kit lens and mounted on this camera I get the most beautiful nature photos . The kit lens has a bit of a cheap feel for an item carrying the canon nameplate but it takes nice photos .
I still have a lot to learn . If you are fairly new to this level of camera the manual , while very detailed , will leave you needing more . I chose to buy the Canon 50D book by David Busch and it's like having an instructor walking you through the cameras abilities .
I would recommend this camera to anyone . I am very pleased .
A few useful points :
1 ) While a very large camera the 50d fits very well in my hand . It is well designed and
I carry it all day in the woods without a strap .
2 ) THe eyecup positions your face right on the LCD and the skins oils will end up on the
screen . I fixed that with the hoodman eyecup .
3 ) Speaking of the LCD , what a beauty . The quality and detail is fantastic . Just be sure to
a good screen cover to protect it .
4 ) Oh hell , I could go on and on but I won't . This was the right camera for me and I am pleased with the purchase . Amazon was great . Saved a bundle of money that I will be using on accessories and lenses .
069 4 I love this camera . I delayed the transition to digital for as long as possible . All I can say is Wow . The Digic 4 image processor is remarkable , the way it records image detail and highlights . It has renewed my interest in photography . For me the camera has the size and weight to use with larger telephoto lenses .
A not too complicated , high utility digital SLR .
071 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
50D . . . wow so far this camera is outperforming my expectations .
I just recently was shooting swimming event indoor , it has huge differences from my XTi .
I could play w / ISO and get very good shoots , so far I am very happy w / the camera .
I need to spend more time to get to know it and to perfect my technic w / this masterpiece .
I am semi-professional sport photographer and think this camera will stay with me for long time .
072 4 50D . . . wow so far this camera is outperforming my expectations .
I just recently was shooting swimming event indoor , it has huge differences from my XTi .
I could play w / ISO and get very good shoots , so far I am very happy w / the camera .
I need to spend more time to get to know it and to perfect my technic w / this masterpiece .
I am semi-professional sport photographer and think this camera will stay with me for long time .
075 4 The 50D is an outstanding camera ; I have owned several of the crop cameras including the XT , XSi , 40D , etc . The new 50D was a worthwhile upgrade for me . The LCD is a huge improvement ; the extra MPs give you a lot of cropping room . The camera focuses quickly , is accurate and provides a very high image quality . There are so many choices to be made for shooting modes that you really need to read through the manual to understand them . Do you want the sharpening done more in-camera - - read the manual . Do you want to change the saturation , colors , etc ? Read the manual . Live View is an option here , as is microadjusting . This feature alone would be worth the upgrade for me . The 50D really shows off the superior lens and is an excellent DSLR - - I have now owned it for several months and like it more than I did when I first starting using it . I love the way the 50D feel in my hands - solid and very tactile . She's a keeper . A very good value in my opinion for a camera that can deliver professional results . This 50D paired with a good quality lens will give you results you are proud of .
078 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
I did a lot of research before switching from Pentax to Canon . I have several friends who shoot with the 30D and love them , , but this has much more to offer . The 40D did not get great reviews from my professional friends , which meant a lot to me . I stayed away from the 40D after reading too many forums with negitive comments on DigitalWeddingchat , dppreivew , and Canonforums . I am a semi-professional and use this camera for portrait and landscape work . What I noticed first off was the quality of the photos right out of the camera . They are beautiful . With my Pentax K10D I really struggled with low light situations , , the Canon 50D camera doesn't . It is easy to learn how to use , and quite lightweight . Until I put the pro L series lens on it ! The huge LCD is amazing . So crisp and clear . I find the controls well placed and easy to use .
I do believe I paid way too much at full price , but I couldn't wait . : ) I can't recommend Willoughbys enough . The camera had a dust spot in the viewfinder and I had to send it back the first day . Willoughbys sent me out a new one , , no questions asked . They also refunded me the 95.00 overnight shipping price !
They were wonderful .
I have no regrets switching over to Canon . The 50D is a thrill to use . High quality throughout . If this camera lasts as well as the 30D has for my pro friends , , I will be in heaven .
You won't regret a purchase of the 50D .
079 4 I did a lot of research before switching from Pentax to Canon . I have several friends who shoot with the 30D and love them , , but this has much more to offer . The 40D did not get great reviews from my professional friends , which meant a lot to me . I stayed away from the 40D after reading too many forums with negitive comments on DigitalWeddingchat , dppreivew , and Canonforums . I am a semi-professional and use this camera for portrait and landscape work . What I noticed first off was the quality of the photos right out of the camera . They are beautiful . With my Pentax K10D I really struggled with low light situations , , the Canon 50D camera doesn't . It is easy to learn how to use , and quite lightweight . Until I put the pro L series lens on it ! The huge LCD is amazing . So crisp and clear . I find the controls well placed and easy to use .
I do believe I paid way too much at full price , but I couldn't wait . : ) I can't recommend Willoughbys enough . The camera had a dust spot in the viewfinder and I had to send it back the first day . Willoughbys sent me out a new one , , no questions asked . They also refunded me the 95.00 overnight shipping price !
They were wonderful .
I have no regrets switching over to Canon . The 50D is a thrill to use . High quality throughout . If this camera lasts as well as the 30D has for my pro friends , , I will be in heaven .
You won't regret a purchase of the 50D .
080 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
We purchased the Canon EOS 40D for our oldest daughter a couple of years ago as she became increasingly interested in photography . She has remained delighted with the camera and continues to become an increasingly skilled photographer .
During the following years , our youngest daughter also became enamored with photography . She used a lower end digital SLR , but always wished for a more powerful camera like her sister . So we recently purchased the 50D as a birthday gift for her . She is thrilled with it and I am thrilled that it seems to be every bit as good as the 40D - and possibly a bit better .
So far , we are still amateur photograhers in our family . But if you want a full powered digital SLR , these seem to be very solid cameras with lots of options and features and plenty of room to develop your skills . We've very happy with both the 40D and the 50D .
081 4 We purchased the Canon EOS 40D for our oldest daughter a couple of years ago as she became increasingly interested in photography . She has remained delighted with the camera and continues to become an increasingly skilled photographer .
During the following years , our youngest daughter also became enamored with photography . She used a lower end digital SLR , but always wished for a more powerful camera like her sister . So we recently purchased the 50D as a birthday gift for her . She is thrilled with it and I am thrilled that it seems to be every bit as good as the 40D - and possibly a bit better .
So far , we are still amateur photograhers in our family . But if you want a full powered digital SLR , these seem to be very solid cameras with lots of options and features and plenty of room to develop your skills . We've very happy with both the 40D and the 50D .
082 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
I'm by no means an expert photographer , so I probably have barely scratched the surface of the potential of this camera . But , based on how I do use it , it is amazing . I find it very user friendly . I'm able to get some phenomenal shots with the most basic of settings . I can't wait to improve my skills and really make use of this camera's capabilities and quality . If you are a serious beginner-to-intermediate photographer , I think you'd be very happy with the Canon 50D .
084 4 Just upgraded from a rebel and really , what a difference in feel and picture quality . This camera really opens up a whole new set of capabilities for you to unleash your creativity with .
My skill set is beginner to amateur ; lots of great stuff on youtube to get up and running quickly from a new functionality perspective .
I love my camera ! !
085 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
Bought this to replace a Canon 30d . Therefore the basic operation and menu structure were familiar . The menu is more flexible and easier to use than for the 30d . I also bought the 50d because it uses the same battery as the 30d .
My first trip with the 50d was to document a mission trip to the Dominican Republic . The picture quality is excellent , especially in low light . The camera's ability to shoot photographs in low light without noise is outstanding ( when compared to my previous cameras ) .
This is a full size ( not full image frame ) camera that is a little heavier than the 30d . With two lenses and gear , I felt the weight at the end of the day . While this isn't a pocket size , light weight camera , it will perform where lightweight cameras cant .
Overall , I'm well pleased with the camera .
086 4 Bought this to replace a Canon 30d . Therefore the basic operation and menu structure were familiar . The menu is more flexible and easier to use than for the 30d . I also bought the 50d because it uses the same battery as the 30d .
My first trip with the 50d was to document a mission trip to the Dominican Republic . The picture quality is excellent , especially in low light . The camera's ability to shoot photographs in low light without noise is outstanding ( when compared to my previous cameras ) .
This is a full size ( not full image frame ) camera that is a little heavier than the 30d . With two lenses and gear , I felt the weight at the end of the day . While this isn't a pocket size , light weight camera , it will perform where lightweight cameras cant .
Overall , I'm well pleased with the camera .
087 4 I have been using my Canon 50D since August and I must say it is fantastic . It takes incredible pictures and is fairly easy to learn to use , considering it is an SLR . the lenses can be replaced with ease , and the camera itself is very sturdy and well-built . My one complaint would be that it is quite heavy , though this is to be expected with a camera of this type . I would highly recommend this camera to serious amateur photographers who are considering a high quality SLR with all the bells and whistles .
088 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
For years I had been shooting the Canon Elan IIe and was very happy with it . I never planned on going digital , I always felt like a photography purist by not doing a bunch of post production in Photoshop , but baby #3 came July 2009 , film / development was getting out of hand , and I'm not quite good enough to get the perfect picture on the first shot so I gave in to the flexibility of digital photography . The 50d was an outstanding way to break into DSLR cameras . I love this camera , it's been nothing but a god send . Durable , reliable , tons of functions and customizations ( half of which I haven't even figured out yet ) . Picture quality is excellent and the 28 - 135mm lens is highly versatile . There are many other in depth reviews out there regarding this camera so I am going to save us both some time and be brief . I just wanted to put my 2 cents in and say that this is a great camera that I have been very happy with . For comparison , I would consider myself a serious photography hobbyist .
089 4 For years I had been shooting the Canon Elan IIe and was very happy with it . I never planned on going digital , I always felt like a photography purist by not doing a bunch of post production in Photoshop , but baby #3 came July 2009 , film / development was getting out of hand , and I'm not quite good enough to get the perfect picture on the first shot so I gave in to the flexibility of digital photography . The 50d was an outstanding way to break into DSLR cameras . I love this camera , it's been nothing but a god send . Durable , reliable , tons of functions and customizations ( half of which I haven't even figured out yet ) . Picture quality is excellent and the 28 - 135mm lens is highly versatile . There are many other in depth reviews out there regarding this camera so I am going to save us both some time and be brief . I just wanted to put my 2 cents in and say that this is a great camera that I have been very happy with . For comparison , I would consider myself a serious photography hobbyist .
090 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only )
I am not one to normally write reviews . However , I am so impressed with this camera that I feel obligated to sing its praises . This was my first digital SLR after being a die-hard film guy for over 40 years . I sold off my Nikon F2A , motor drive and several lenses and have never looked back . Being a devout Nikon guy , I considered the Nikon digital SLRs , but like my pocket Nikon digital camera , they felt poorly made and the navigation was anything but intuitive .
The Canon 50D feels solid , and if you don't mind a larger body and the weight ( I prefer it ) you will be impressed with the solid feel of the body and all of the controls . The navigation is so easy you almost don't need the instruction manual . I purchased the Canon 18 - 200AF-IS zoom lens , and although there is some minor ( real minor ) distortion at both ends of the focal planes , it is a great one lens solution that provides a 35mm equivalent range of about 28 - 300mm . The pictures are razor sharp , and the raw image software is effective and easy to use . My only criticism of this camera is that occasionally in low light ( even with an external Canon flash attached ) it sometimes will not fire in auto mode because it decides there is not enough light . This can be resolved by using manual mode .
A great camera - it has exceeded my expectations .
091 4 Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only )
I am not one to normally write reviews . However , I am so impressed with this camera that I feel obligated to sing its praises . This was my first digital SLR after being a die-hard film guy for over 40 years . I sold off my Nikon F2A , motor drive and several lenses and have never looked back . Being a devout Nikon guy , I considered the Nikon digital SLRs , but like my pocket Nikon digital camera , they felt poorly made and the navigation was anything but intuitive .
The Canon 50D feels solid , and if you don't mind a larger body and the weight ( I prefer it ) you will be impressed with the solid feel of the body and all of the controls . The navigation is so easy you almost don't need the instruction manual . I purchased the Canon 18 - 200AF-IS zoom lens , and although there is some minor ( real minor ) distortion at both ends of the focal planes , it is a great one lens solution that provides a 35mm equivalent range of about 28 - 300mm . The pictures are razor sharp , and the raw image software is effective and easy to use . My only criticism of this camera is that occasionally in low light ( even with an external Canon flash attached ) it sometimes will not fire in auto mode because it decides there is not enough light . This can be resolved by using manual mode .
A great camera - it has exceeded my expectations .
092 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
There are already a lot of detailed reviews about the 50D . With that in mind I'll keep this brief . My background : I'm an amature with a lot of SLR experience . I started taking photography classes in high school . . . back when there were only film SLRs ! . Photojournalism was also my major for one year in college . And since it's been an on and off hobby of mine . I have a Canon SD 700 IS but this 50D was my first DSLR .
Maybe it's because I work long hours and I'm not outside during the day , but most of my 50D photos so far have been in the late afternoon or evenings , or indoors . As such I've used ISO 1600 quite a bit . The images to my eye look fantastic ! Within the menu system there are High ISO Noise Reduction and Long Exposure Noise Reduection options that can be turned on / off as needed .
If one is to compare image quality of the 50D to the 40D , I think it's interesting to remember the 50D takes larger , higher resolution images . In other words , the 50D images start out with more detail . And from the research I did it appears the 50D's images can be sharpened and still have more detail than the 40D . There are good explanations of this on the web . Amazon censored out the article links I included but if you contact me I'd be happy to provide them .
Anyway , suffices to say I'm very happy with my 50D's IQ so far . I also like it's super fast and accurate focusing ! I haven't used Live View very much but that feature has had its useful moments . The LCD screen is gorgeous ! And the controls and menus are easy to navigate . To be honest , they were a bit overwhelming the first couple days but then quickly became second nature . I also bought Jeff Revell's
Canon 50D : From Snapshots to Great Shots
. It's a beginner type book IMO , but still a good intro to this camera and a primer of DSLR basics if you're transitioning from film to digital like I was .
I bought the 50D body only from Amazon and got the
Canon EF 50mm f1.4 USM Standard & Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras
from Adorama ; they matched the price and they've been very easy to work with . OK that's enough from me ! If you happen to have any questions let me know , I'll try to answer best I can . Cheers !
093 4 There are already a lot of detailed reviews about the 50D . With that in mind I'll keep this brief . My background : I'm an amature with a lot of SLR experience . I started taking photography classes in high school . . . back when there were only film SLRs ! . Photojournalism was also my major for one year in college . And since it's been an on and off hobby of mine . I have a Canon SD 700 IS but this 50D was my first DSLR .
Maybe it's because I work long hours and I'm not outside during the day , but most of my 50D photos so far have been in the late afternoon or evenings , or indoors . As such I've used ISO 1600 quite a bit . The images to my eye look fantastic ! Within the menu system there are High ISO Noise Reduction and Long Exposure Noise Reduection options that can be turned on / off as needed .
If one is to compare image quality of the 50D to the 40D , I think it's interesting to remember the 50D takes larger , higher resolution images . In other words , the 50D images start out with more detail . And from the research I did it appears the 50D's images can be sharpened and still have more detail than the 40D . There are good explanations of this on the web . Amazon censored out the article links I included but if you contact me I'd be happy to provide them .
Anyway , suffices to say I'm very happy with my 50D's IQ so far . I also like it's super fast and accurate focusing ! I haven't used Live View very much but that feature has had its useful moments . The LCD screen is gorgeous ! And the controls and menus are easy to navigate . To be honest , they were a bit overwhelming the first couple days but then quickly became second nature . I also bought Jeff Revell's
Canon 50D : From Snapshots to Great Shots
. It's a beginner type book IMO , but still a good intro to this camera and a primer of DSLR basics if you're transitioning from film to digital like I was .
I bought the 50D body only from Amazon and got the
Canon EF 50mm f1.4 USM Standard & Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras
from Adorama ; they matched the price and they've been very easy to work with . OK that's enough from me ! If you happen to have any questions let me know , I'll try to answer best I can . Cheers !
094 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18 - 200mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
This is my first SLR . . . I did a lot of research beforehand , especially through amazon reviews . I played with a few different Rebels , I tried some Nikons . . . I initially wanted the 40D , but I found that prices for the 50D weren't that much more . The things I love most about this camera :
speed : 6.3 fps is fast enough to take good action pics of corgis wrestling with collies
ruggedness : it just feels good and sturdy
ergonomics : button placement is good , logical , easy to get to . . . they just make sense
battery life : I can shoot over a weekend , review pics , delete pics , and still have battery life remaining !
Sure the pictures can look a bit soft , but in raw mode , it's pretty easy to sharpen .
I've had this camera for a little over a month now , and I'm very happy with it !
095 4 This is my first SLR . . . I did a lot of research beforehand , especially through amazon reviews . I played with a few different Rebels , I tried some Nikons . . . I initially wanted the 40D , but I found that prices for the 50D weren't that much more . The things I love most about this camera :
speed : 6.3 fps is fast enough to take good action pics of corgis wrestling with collies
ruggedness : it just feels good and sturdy
ergonomics : button placement is good , logical , easy to get to . . . they just make sense
battery life : I can shoot over a weekend , review pics , delete pics , and still have battery life remaining !
Sure the pictures can look a bit soft , but in raw mode , it's pretty easy to sharpen .
I've had this camera for a little over a month now , and I'm very happy with it !
096 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
So , I cut my teeth with 35mm SLRs , but for the last few years , I have been using prosumer level point-and-shoot cameras like the Canon G7 . Wanting something more , I bit the bullet and picked up the 50D . To cut to the chase , the pictures from this camera are incredible - - the best pics are almost 3D . If you are looking to step up from a P & S , you will not be disappointed . However , a couple of caveats :
1 ) If you can afford it , get better lens than the kit lens . If that's all you can afford , then save your pennies to step up to a lens . I bought the body-only version and picked up the
Canon EF-S 17 - 55mm f / 2.8 IS USM Lens for Canon DSLR Cameras
. Yes , it cost as much as the body , but it is so worth it . You are really not going to unlock the potential of this camera until you upgrade the lens
2 ) Take time to learn the camera - - while you can pick up the camera , leave it in full auto mode , and get some great pics , investing a little time to learn more about the camera will pay off . I picked up
David Busch's Canon EOS 50D Guide to Digital SLR Photography
, which was very helpful on this front
097 4 So , I cut my teeth with 35mm SLRs , but for the last few years , I have been using prosumer level point-and-shoot cameras like the Canon G7 . Wanting something more , I bit the bullet and picked up the 50D . To cut to the chase , the pictures from this camera are incredible - - the best pics are almost 3D . If you are looking to step up from a P & S , you will not be disappointed . However , a couple of caveats :
1 ) If you can afford it , get better lens than the kit lens . If that's all you can afford , then save your pennies to step up to a lens . I bought the body-only version and picked up the
Canon EF-S 17 - 55mm f / 2.8 IS USM Lens for Canon DSLR Cameras
. Yes , it cost as much as the body , but it is so worth it . You are really not going to unlock the potential of this camera until you upgrade the lens
2 ) Take time to learn the camera - - while you can pick up the camera , leave it in full auto mode , and get some great pics , investing a little time to learn more about the camera will pay off . I picked up
David Busch's Canon EOS 50D Guide to Digital SLR Photography
, which was very helpful on this front
098 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
Moved from my trusty 20D to this 50D . Nice upgrade . Still have the 20D as a backup . The LCD screen is great . Menu even easier to use . My BG-E2 battery grip fit right on the 50D . I have 3 L lenses and the pictures are sharp and color is beautiful . You can't go wrong for this price .
100 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
I used my 40D for almost two years . This 50D is a nice upgrade . I am very pleased to have made this upgrade . Other reviewers have written long , detailed , reviews , so I will make this one short and sweet . I am very pleased to have purchased the 50D . I especially like the following items :
1 . High-resolution , LCD display on the back of the camera .
2 . Custom menus and features . Also , the menus look so much better in color .
3 . More mega-pixels , because I often crop .
4 . Higher ISO .
The Canon EOS 50D Digital Field Guide ( Paperback ) , available at Amazon ( https : / / www.amazon.com / gp / product / 0470455594 / ref = oss_T15 _ product ) , provides a lot of good information for the 50D .
Bottom line : great camera that I am really enjoying .
101 4 I used my 40D for almost two years . This 50D is a nice upgrade . I am very pleased to have made this upgrade . Other reviewers have written long , detailed , reviews , so I will make this one short and sweet . I am very pleased to have purchased the 50D . I especially like the following items :
1 . High-resolution , LCD display on the back of the camera .
2 . Custom menus and features . Also , the menus look so much better in color .
3 . More mega-pixels , because I often crop .
4 . Higher ISO .
The Canon EOS 50D Digital Field Guide ( Paperback ) , available at Amazon ( https : / / www.amazon.com / gp / product / 0470455594 / ref = oss_T15 _ product ) , provides a lot of good information for the 50D .
Bottom line : great camera that I am really enjoying .
102 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
I owned a Rebel XS and recently just upgraded to the 50D . I was about to only purchase the 28 - 135mm lens , but then I saw the lens is essentially half price if purchased with the 50D as a kit . I knew I would upgrade sooner or later , so I bought the kit and have not looked back . The extra features are worth every penny .
The 50D works and feels more advanced as it should , including the 28 - 135mm lens in comparison to the 18 - 55mm one . Both much sturdier , more sleek . The most notable differences are the jog wheel , which makes scrolling through pictures a breeze , and the 3.0 LCD = beautiful playback . I guess the only drawback is it's a bit heavier , but the trade-off is the added durability with more features packed within .
The learning curve was a cinch having used the XS . If you're looking to upgrade from a lower model , the 50D is the logical next step . I almost went with the slightly less T1i , but after reading around the web , several others made it clear the 50D would be worth the extra investment . I'd have to agree .
103 4 I owned a Rebel XS and recently just upgraded to the 50D . I was about to only purchase the 28 - 135mm lens , but then I saw the lens is essentially half price if purchased with the 50D as a kit . I knew I would upgrade sooner or later , so I bought the kit and have not looked back . The extra features are worth every penny .
The 50D works and feels more advanced as it should , including the 28 - 135mm lens in comparison to the 18 - 55mm one . Both much sturdier , more sleek . The most notable differences are the jog wheel , which makes scrolling through pictures a breeze , and the 3.0 LCD = beautiful playback . I guess the only drawback is it's a bit heavier , but the trade-off is the added durability with more features packed within .
The learning curve was a cinch having used the XS . If you're looking to upgrade from a lower model , the 50D is the logical next step . I almost went with the slightly less T1i , but after reading around the web , several others made it clear the 50D would be worth the extra investment . I'd have to agree .
104 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
This is my first Canon SLR in a very long while , and was unsure of the move from Nikon , but decided to check it out . Overall this is a nice camera . Noise level is indeed more than Nikon , my old D90 did some beautiful shots at high ISO where the 50D strugles . I would not go any higher than ISO 800 or so with this camera . Thing is I never do , so this is fine for me , but might be a problem for some .
The button layout I would say could use some work . Nikon I would give a major advantage here as all there buttons are easy to get to and navigate , where the Canon I have to look and fumble around to find even the basic stuff . I admit allot of this has to do with me needing to needing to know the camera better and will improve over time , but the D90 I picked up in like 20 min of using . Don't get me wrong , I don't think Canon's is bad , but could use some more work is all .
The camera is fast and starts up almost before I know I want to turn it on . ( almost ) Though I do feel Canon do need to add more AF points the nine it has seems to do the job well , even when following moving objects it keeps right up with it without a hint of wanting to slow down . Just make sure your memory card can keep up with this camera when your shutter is on auto fire . Like some reviews have stated , I have noticed the tracking does tend to want to go to brighter areas in the frame . This has not been a big issue with me , but is something you might want to watch for .
Another thing I really like is the solid build . It feels like a tank and knowing that metal and weather seal will keep this running long after I should of stopped shooting and had put it away . Nothing on this camera feels weak .
I was worried about soft images , though it is not a problem for this camera . Yes , if your using lower price glass you may see some softness , but this is not the camera doing it . With the 28 - 135 lens I got some pretty sharp shots with it and think its a good basic Lens , Yes my Primes ( I like my primes ) do better , but did enjoy using the lens on this camera for simple walks when I only wanted one lens with me and nothing else . Also I have noticed that this camera has no image overlay or multiple exposure settings . These are common on Nikon cameras , even there cheaper models , and I find it upsetting that there not on this camera . Yes you can do these in photoshop , having CS4 this is not a problem , but I prefer to do things in camera and only use PS for minor tweaks and adjustments . Canon really needs to add these .
At the price right now I would have to say this camera is a steal and a better deal over the 7D which really does not add much . I might take a stronger look after a price drop or two but right now this is a much better deal and I think anyone looking for a good buy on a SLR built as strong and performs as fast and accurate would be happy with buying the 50D .
105 4 This is my first Canon SLR in a very long while , and was unsure of the move from Nikon , but decided to check it out . Overall this is a nice camera . Noise level is indeed more than Nikon , my old D90 did some beautiful shots at high ISO where the 50D strugles . I would not go any higher than ISO 800 or so with this camera . Thing is I never do , so this is fine for me , but might be a problem for some .
The button layout I would say could use some work . Nikon I would give a major advantage here as all there buttons are easy to get to and navigate , where the Canon I have to look and fumble around to find even the basic stuff . I admit allot of this has to do with me needing to needing to know the camera better and will improve over time , but the D90 I picked up in like 20 min of using . Don't get me wrong , I don't think Canon's is bad , but could use some more work is all .
The camera is fast and starts up almost before I know I want to turn it on . ( almost ) Though I do feel Canon do need to add more AF points the nine it has seems to do the job well , even when following moving objects it keeps right up with it without a hint of wanting to slow down . Just make sure your memory card can keep up with this camera when your shutter is on auto fire . Like some reviews have stated , I have noticed the tracking does tend to want to go to brighter areas in the frame . This has not been a big issue with me , but is something you might want to watch for .
Another thing I really like is the solid build . It feels like a tank and knowing that metal and weather seal will keep this running long after I should of stopped shooting and had put it away . Nothing on this camera feels weak .
I was worried about soft images , though it is not a problem for this camera . Yes , if your using lower price glass you may see some softness , but this is not the camera doing it . With the 28 - 135 lens I got some pretty sharp shots with it and think its a good basic Lens , Yes my Primes ( I like my primes ) do better , but did enjoy using the lens on this camera for simple walks when I only wanted one lens with me and nothing else . Also I have noticed that this camera has no image overlay or multiple exposure settings . These are common on Nikon cameras , even there cheaper models , and I find it upsetting that there not on this camera . Yes you can do these in photoshop , having CS4 this is not a problem , but I prefer to do things in camera and only use PS for minor tweaks and adjustments . Canon really needs to add these .
At the price right now I would have to say this camera is a steal and a better deal over the 7D which really does not add much . I might take a stronger look after a price drop or two but right now this is a much better deal and I think anyone looking for a good buy on a SLR built as strong and performs as fast and accurate would be happy with buying the 50D .
106 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
We did a Wedding with our new camera and the results are fantastic . Photographers who have been around alot longer may want a little more expensive camera , but I challenge any photographer to put my photos up to theirs and tell the difference . If you want a incredible camera for a great price I highyly recomend this camera . The color , white balance , and sharpness of the photos are great . Shooting at high Iso still produces great shots .
111 4 second camera I've owned in the canon digital SLR series . Much better than the 20D I last had , I'm sure I'll eventually move onto a higher camera but as a college student still in the phase of moving into the professional career , this is definitely a strong purchase in the right direction .
I'd reccommend this product to anyone who has knowledge in photo and Canon SLR's . Not recommended for someone just starting out .
112 4 I've been involved with photography for over 10 years and am completely satisfied with this camera . I've owned several Canon SLR's prior to this one and they don't even compare . I ended up using my old rebel a few weeks after getting the 50D and couldn't believe how much better the 50D is .
More focus points would be nice , but isn't a huge deal .
113 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
As an amateur I upgraded from a Digital Rebel to the EOS 50D . It is an excellent product and I am in the process of learning . I would recommend purchasing an EOS - 50D training Video from Blue Crane Digital or Lark Books ( via Amazon ) . Both are excellent sources for the training . The price , performance , and service was excellent and I am looking forward to spring to start taking some outdoors photos .
114 4 As an amateur I upgraded from a Digital Rebel to the EOS 50D . It is an excellent product and I am in the process of learning . I would recommend purchasing an EOS - 50D training Video from Blue Crane Digital or Lark Books ( via Amazon ) . Both are excellent sources for the training . The price , performance , and service was excellent and I am looking forward to spring to start taking some outdoors photos .
115 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
The crisp photos ? The color correct photos ? The ease of use ? The Fab software that is packaged with it ? The nice feel in your hand ? Or , the intuitive menu . I love this unit . It is the best I have ever owned .
117 4 I love taking pictures and have been using a digital point and shoot for some time now , but finally made the leap to digital SLR . I did not want to buy an intro SLR that in two years I'll whish I hade a better one . The Canon EOS 50D
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens
fills the bill nicely . I have had it a month now and needless to say still have a lot to learn , but I have been very happy with the performance . I also feel the price from Amazon was the best I could find and the shipment came in a timely manner as promised . I am very happy with the camera and Amazon.com .
118 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
I bought this Canon 50D body to replace the Canon Rebel Xti body I was using with a Canon 70 - 200mm 2.8L lens . The Canon 50D has a faster logic system for the sports shooting I mainly do . I get almost twice as many frames per second and the photos are in focus much more of the time . The view screen on the back is bigger and brighter and easier to see if a shot is going to be worth keeping , even in brighter viewing conditions . The increase from 10.1 to 15.1 MP allows me to enlarge some shots that I take from farther away on a soccer field and still have a quality image . I'm very happy with the 50D and would definitely buy it again . I still use the Rebel body with the original ( far less expensive ) 18 - 55mm lens for candids , close-ups and group shots where motion is not much of an issue .
Happy Canon User
119 4 I bought this Canon 50D body to replace the Canon Rebel Xti body I was using with a Canon 70 - 200mm 2.8L lens . The Canon 50D has a faster logic system for the sports shooting I mainly do . I get almost twice as many frames per second and the photos are in focus much more of the time . The view screen on the back is bigger and brighter and easier to see if a shot is going to be worth keeping , even in brighter viewing conditions . The increase from 10.1 to 15.1 MP allows me to enlarge some shots that I take from farther away on a soccer field and still have a quality image . I'm very happy with the 50D and would definitely buy it again . I still use the Rebel body with the original ( far less expensive ) 18 - 55mm lens for candids , close-ups and group shots where motion is not much of an issue .
Happy Canon User
120 4 I use both the EOS 1D Mark II and III for a lot of action photography ( birds in flight and such ) . The 50D locks on focus faster than either . The extra megapixels offered by the 50D brings a significant improvement in detail to my photographs , as well . It is nice that photographers graduating from the 20D up through the series to the 50D can still use the same batteries and chargers on this latest model .
My one little complaint is that Canon still hasn't found a way in this model series to move the depth of field preview button to the right side of the lens mount so that it can be easily accessed by a finger on the shooting ( right ) hand . Doing so eliminates the necessity for moving either hand from their normal shooting positions to check depth of field . I suppose this is a problem mostly for those of us who use telephoto lenses a lot .
122 4 I received the Canon 50D about a month ago and have already taken probably close to 500 photos . This is my first DSLR but I did a lot of researching before deciding on the 50D . So far I have been very pleased with this camera . The detail and clarity of the photos has been amazing . I bought the camera to photograph college sports and with around 6 frames a second I am excited to see what kind of shots I can capture . If you have any photography background at all you will pick up on the many features quickly . If you decided to capture in multiple formats , ( raw and jpeg ) at the same time you need something bigger than a 4GB card or at least 2 , 4GB cards . You will get around 94 photos saving in the two formats at the same time . This camera is a little heavy but that is fine with me . I have a point and shoot camera for times when I don't need all the horse power of the Canon 50D . Overall this is a great camera worth every penny I spent on it .
123 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
This camera is truly an awesome camera . The picture quality is astounding ! I upgraded from my Canon 20D . It is easy to use and uses all my previous Canon lenses . The larger digital viewing screen is great . I would recommend this camera to anyone looking for Canon quality at a great price from Amazon .
126 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18 - 200mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
I have read reviews says 40d is much better than 50d . . nevertheless , I have purchased this piece from amazon and start practicing my new hobby . I honestly can't compare how great this camera is among other camera since I have never tried sDLR before . But what i can tell you is that its a great way to start with this camera to feel that you control your photos and start improving your understanding of picture decision-making process . Its really a nice journey to take with this camera .
When I started enjoying my pictures . . I realized that this hobby needs a lot of $ $ to satisfy my hunger . . i.e . lenses , tools , and equipments which you can add to your camera and could play a major role in your pictures . . so get your self prepared for extra $ $ spending .
127 4 I have read reviews says 40d is much better than 50d . . nevertheless , I have purchased this piece from amazon and start practicing my new hobby . I honestly can't compare how great this camera is among other camera since I have never tried sDLR before . But what i can tell you is that its a great way to start with this camera to feel that you control your photos and start improving your understanding of picture decision-making process . Its really a nice journey to take with this camera .
When I started enjoying my pictures . . I realized that this hobby needs a lot of $ $ to satisfy my hunger . . i.e . lenses , tools , and equipments which you can add to your camera and could play a major role in your pictures . . so get your self prepared for extra $ $ spending .
128 4 I never was a Canon's man not because I kept something against the brand , but the controls layout , some other things were not in the way I was used to . They are still different to me but the overall image quality , handling and general photographic capacity is tremendous . For the price given it is best buy . I had K20D and liked it a lot , but the ugly color noise clearly visible even on ISO400 started to be irritating . Another thing is the focusing . This cam focuses fast and quiet , not to mention its unbelievable 6.5 fps .
Some cameras become legends and high points of achievement and it feels like this one is such a cam .
As to me there's no reason for a higher pixel count , because it allows printing for practically any size that photo printers allow with pixel-to-pixel precision . I also had my hands on Sony A900 that is terrific camera in every way but it is much pricey and I already prefer smaller sizes and weights that associated with 24x16mm sensors .
This camera married with Canon's terrific 17 - 55 2.8 zoom produces images of stupendous quality .
I don't shoot much of action photography but overall responsiveness , instant readiness of this camera is very satisfying . The fast focus is delightfully silent with exactly this amount of feedback that feels just right . The battery life is very impressive as well .
Very nice camera , highly recommended .
129 4 After owing a Canon EOS 10D camera , which was damaged while traversing a mountain stream during a photo shoot , I wanted to continue with a like-kind Canon replacement . The EOS 50D was just released in October . I purchased it and have been using it for one month now . The 50D is just like my now retired 10D but with a few upgrades .
One significant upgrade is the larger LCD display . It is crisp and sharp and easy to review images captured . While I do like the larger LCD display , there is a downside to the larger LCD display . I have found that my face inevitably touches the LCD display while looking through the viewfinder . This almost always leaves facial marks ( oils ) much like fingerprints all over the left side of the LCD display . I now find I must keep at-the-ready a soft , clean cloth to wipe it clean to review images clearly . While this is not necessarily a hardware issue , it is becoming somewhat of a major annoyance - - especially when on a fast-paced photo shoot . Of course , unless one is as particular about a clean LCD display as I am , it might not be an annoyance . Perhaps Canon could consider moving the LCD display to the right side vs the left in later models .
Another significant upgrade is the better image quality versus my former 10D . The images are now taken at 15.5 mega pixels versus the 6.3 of my former 10D . This alone made my purchase a worthwhile upgrade from the 10D .
I have also noticed a noticeable difference with the 50D to capture a bit sharper images in low or available light situations . While the difference I have noticed is not always a sure thing in every situation , it is noticeable enough that it can often mean the difference between a keeper and a deletion . Fuzzy images in low light was a major issue with my former 10D . The sensors in the 50D appear to have been improved markedly .
While the Canon EOS 50D can certainly over-kill for a novice or a point-and-shoot photographer , it does meet all of the quality standards and versatility requirements that I require as an advanced photographer . Whether used fully automatic or manually , this camera has all the technology I need to keep it from becoming a technical drag on my creativity . I consider myself an artist with a camera , not a technician . So , once I learn most of the camera's features , I make the camera work for me , not against me . That's everything a Twenty-First Century digital camera should be . And , the Canon EOS 10D certainly is .
While the Canon EOS 50D is not a radical upgrade over more recent Canon digital SLRs , it is for my former 10D . Therefore , I am delighted with my new 50D and would readily recommend it as a quality new or replacement digital camera for any serious photographer .
130 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
Updated 2 / 4 / 09
After using this for over 2 months , I absolutely have no regret . As a matter of fact , I'm extremely glad I did not get the Nikon D90 . I probably would consider the Nikon D300 for better Auto Focus performance , but that costs quite a bit more . This thing is a joy to use and the image quality is amazing , I actually found this easier to use than my 2 other Canon PS ( shooting manual , that is ) .
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
After checking out the camera , I found that there's a lint on the focus plate that would not go away , it does not affect the picture but annoy the hell out of me . I emailed Amazon's customer service and got a response the same day , I was offered 3 very good options and I picked the replacement option . One day after I picked the replacement option ( I could get full refund , a good discount or replacement ) , a new replacement was delivered . I am thrilled . As for the camera , there's not much I can say other than that it exceeds all my expectations . It is a bit heavy but it takes amazing pictures . It was between the Nikon D90 and the Canon 50D for me , since I plan to use the camera on a trail taking pictures of wild life and birds , I think the Canon 50D will serve me better . Most people think Nikon has a better UI , but it took me around 2 hours to learn most of the features and operation of the camera even though I never used a Canon DSLR before so I don't think the UI on the Canon is unfriendly as some people claim . I have no interest in holy war between the camera camps , I think both Canon and Nikon make good cameras and I just happen to think this camera is better for me .
131 4 Updated 2 / 4 / 09
After using this for over 2 months , I absolutely have no regret . As a matter of fact , I'm extremely glad I did not get the Nikon D90 . I probably would consider the Nikon D300 for better Auto Focus performance , but that costs quite a bit more . This thing is a joy to use and the image quality is amazing , I actually found this easier to use than my 2 other Canon PS ( shooting manual , that is ) .
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
After checking out the camera , I found that there's a lint on the focus plate that would not go away , it does not affect the picture but annoy the hell out of me . I emailed Amazon's customer service and got a response the same day , I was offered 3 very good options and I picked the replacement option . One day after I picked the replacement option ( I could get full refund , a good discount or replacement ) , a new replacement was delivered . I am thrilled . As for the camera , there's not much I can say other than that it exceeds all my expectations . It is a bit heavy but it takes amazing pictures . It was between the Nikon D90 and the Canon 50D for me , since I plan to use the camera on a trail taking pictures of wild life and birds , I think the Canon 50D will serve me better . Most people think Nikon has a better UI , but it took me around 2 hours to learn most of the features and operation of the camera even though I never used a Canon DSLR before so I don't think the UI on the Canon is unfriendly as some people claim . I have no interest in holy war between the camera camps , I think both Canon and Nikon make good cameras and I just happen to think this camera is better for me .
132 4 I own a 40D and recently purchased the 50D . The photos turn out very nice ( although I have some very good lenses ) . But I'll tell you this : I've spent more time trying to clean the view finder glass or sending it in to have it cleaned than I have actually spent taking photographs . This camera was supposed to be well sealed . But the minute I change lenses , even in the house , it seems like dust gets on the top of the view finder glass and there is no way I can remove it . The trouble is that I do not know if the view finder or the lens is dirty . It takes the fun out of photography with this camera . I never had problems like this with the 40D ( or any of my Canon film cameras ) . At this point , I wish I hadn't bought the 50D . In four months , it has been sent to Canon in California twice ; about to go in for a third .
133 4 I was using a XTi before , then moved up to the 50D . Originally , i was only for the enhanced pix count . When started using it , at least two things exceeded my original expectations .
1 . the high speed shots when am doing birding - - incrediblly caught each frame thought cculd be missed . this definitely provides me other new possibilities for sporting as well as HDR bracketing .
2 . the live view AF-ON's live and face-detect modes . i could not over state how big it helped out for the shot on my wife's food blogging . She said it won't be possible to get such a high mark now without those those helps .
3 . one more thing , the LCD and those customizable features . . . awesome .
i like the IQ too , incredible .
135 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
I purchased my 40D upgrade from my 30D last Aug for my Bday only to find out 30 days later a 50 was on the way ( ouch ! ) . I bought the 50 anyway & kept my 40 which I loved . Boy , what a jump ! I love this camera ! as Jodi-Ann so eloquently put it . The DIGIC 4 is a step up . Pix are absolutely amazingly sharp . And I don't mean sharp because of the new Hi-Res LCD , I mean SHARP-SHARP because I printed them out right away on a 8x10 and 16x20 from my Epson Stylus Pro 3800 . Wow ! Is my reaction as I so patiently watched the printer print them out .
I received my 50 body last Friday from here through ElectronicsExpo which came in earlier than promised . I shot pix all Sat & Sun . Ear to ear smile is my first impression . I'm not gonna get into techs bcoz I don't have to , your eyes can tell you . Plus the great reviewers here already have & that's why I bought it . I used my 24 - 70F2.8L & 50F1.2L glasses . took variety of shots from standard setting to pumped up saturation to B & W then produced some prints runnin ' Lightroom 2 . My assessments were , My 40 was great , Presto 50 is even better !
If you can swing the $ $ $ its worth it ! If stepping up is a strain or near impossible it's ok , your 40D is still great ! If this will be your first DSLR & thinking Canon but on a budget then the 40D will be a bargain now that the 50 is here ( the 30D is a real bargain as well as an excellent starter ) . Either one is excellent , but the 50D supercedes its predecessors .
PS . Thanks a million to the positive reviewers here - you guys make the Difference in the World !
136 4 I purchased my 40D upgrade from my 30D last Aug for my Bday only to find out 30 days later a 50 was on the way ( ouch ! ) . I bought the 50 anyway & kept my 40 which I loved . Boy , what a jump ! I love this camera ! as Jodi-Ann so eloquently put it . The DIGIC 4 is a step up . Pix are absolutely amazingly sharp . And I don't mean sharp because of the new Hi-Res LCD , I mean SHARP-SHARP because I printed them out right away on a 8x10 and 16x20 from my Epson Stylus Pro 3800 . Wow ! Is my reaction as I so patiently watched the printer print them out .
I received my 50 body last Friday from here through ElectronicsExpo which came in earlier than promised . I shot pix all Sat & Sun . Ear to ear smile is my first impression . I'm not gonna get into techs bcoz I don't have to , your eyes can tell you . Plus the great reviewers here already have & that's why I bought it . I used my 24 - 70F2.8L & 50F1.2L glasses . took variety of shots from standard setting to pumped up saturation to B & W then produced some prints runnin ' Lightroom 2 . My assessments were , My 40 was great , Presto 50 is even better !
If you can swing the $ $ $ its worth it ! If stepping up is a strain or near impossible it's ok , your 40D is still great ! If this will be your first DSLR & thinking Canon but on a budget then the 40D will be a bargain now that the 50 is here ( the 30D is a real bargain as well as an excellent starter ) . Either one is excellent , but the 50D supercedes its predecessors .
PS . Thanks a million to the positive reviewers here - you guys make the Difference in the World !
138 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
I have owned the 20D for years and was excited to upgrade to this model . I could not be more disappointed with this camera . I believe it is a problem with the camera itself . Maybe a different one would work better but regardless I'm sending this camera back and I'm purchasing the Rebel t1i instead . It feels odd to move down a step but having used the Rebel t1i I can say it takes 100% better pictures than my 50D .
The pictures on the 50D come out grainy and flat . There is not the sharp , crisp quality that you'd expect to find from a semi professional level camera . I am using L series lenses to no avail . The picture quality is just sub par . I read the negative reviews on this camera and figured I'd take the chance since there were so many positives but I should have listened to those who had issues and not made the purchase in the first place . I would not recommend this camera at all .
139 4 I have owned the 20D for years and was excited to upgrade to this model . I could not be more disappointed with this camera . I believe it is a problem with the camera itself . Maybe a different one would work better but regardless I'm sending this camera back and I'm purchasing the Rebel t1i instead . It feels odd to move down a step but having used the Rebel t1i I can say it takes 100% better pictures than my 50D .
The pictures on the 50D come out grainy and flat . There is not the sharp , crisp quality that you'd expect to find from a semi professional level camera . I am using L series lenses to no avail . The picture quality is just sub par . I read the negative reviews on this camera and figured I'd take the chance since there were so many positives but I should have listened to those who had issues and not made the purchase in the first place . I would not recommend this camera at all .
140 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
I looked at the 50D , the Rebel T1i , and the 7D . Although I was very tempted by the 7D I could not justify the price premium in my mind . The controls are easier to operate and the LCD panel on the top of the camera that gives you all of the settings is what swayed me from the T1i . It feels great in the had and the weather sealing is a big plus , you also get lots more control and settings than in the Rebel line . This is a great camera and a very good upgrade for me .
If you have the funds the 7D has a lot more features and seems worth it , but for someone like me , an amateur who just is really starting to get more serious , it was just too much at this stage .
I could not be happier . Additionally , I purchased the
GGS DSLR LCD Optical Glass Screen Protector for Canon EOS 50D Mark II Digital SLR Cameras
to protect the GREAT 3 inch screen on the back ( I damaged my screen on the Rebel and really had issues seeing the info on the LCD ) , and would definitely recommend this as an accessory .
141 4 I looked at the 50D , the Rebel T1i , and the 7D . Although I was very tempted by the 7D I could not justify the price premium in my mind . The controls are easier to operate and the LCD panel on the top of the camera that gives you all of the settings is what swayed me from the T1i . It feels great in the had and the weather sealing is a big plus , you also get lots more control and settings than in the Rebel line . This is a great camera and a very good upgrade for me .
If you have the funds the 7D has a lot more features and seems worth it , but for someone like me , an amateur who just is really starting to get more serious , it was just too much at this stage .
I could not be happier . Additionally , I purchased the
GGS DSLR LCD Optical Glass Screen Protector for Canon EOS 50D Mark II Digital SLR Cameras
to protect the GREAT 3 inch screen on the back ( I damaged my screen on the Rebel and really had issues seeing the info on the LCD ) , and would definitely recommend this as an accessory .
144 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
I am a beginner . . . . and I love this camera ! ! I am learning all the features . . . and I know that will take some time . Overall this camera is easy to use and is one of the best purchases I have made ! Totally love it ! !
146 4 I just purchased this and love it !
I have been shooting every day with it !
148 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
While this is my first DSLR , I have found that this is a great camera to learn with . The Rebel series is less expensive , but you can feel the difference with this camera . The overall feel of the camera is more durable . The functionality is great . The price has only dropped about $80 dollars in about 10 months . It has sustained it's value all through the release of the 7D model .
150 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
Great quality camera . Tried the Nikon D5000 first , but the 50D pictures are much better .
151 4 Great quality camera . Tried the Nikon D5000 first , but the 50D pictures are much better .
152 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
I am giving this camera 4 - stars because of the lens it came with . The camera is GREAT . But if you get the lens package , you might notice that pictures aren't as sharp as they should be on a 15MP camera . . . but other than that , love the camera . It's user friendly & takes professional grade pictures . I only wish it had a video option .
154 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
very happy with this SLR . The photos are sharp and colors are superb . I read lots of articles about the noise with high ISO but i did not see what they see , i have tried taking pictures on ISO 3200 and the pictures were stunning compared to other camera . slight noise is there but that is normal for a 3200 , just take it to Adobe and remove the noise .
if possible , try to buy a better lens than the one provided by the manufacture . the only one thing that i did not like about the 50D is the battery life . with a full recharge , i take it out for one full day event then i need to recharge it again for the next event .
other than than that , the camera is excellent , pictures are amazing specially when printing them or zooming on pc .
155 4 very happy with this SLR . The photos are sharp and colors are superb . I read lots of articles about the noise with high ISO but i did not see what they see , i have tried taking pictures on ISO 3200 and the pictures were stunning compared to other camera . slight noise is there but that is normal for a 3200 , just take it to Adobe and remove the noise .
if possible , try to buy a better lens than the one provided by the manufacture . the only one thing that i did not like about the 50D is the battery life . with a full recharge , i take it out for one full day event then i need to recharge it again for the next event .
other than than that , the camera is excellent , pictures are amazing specially when printing them or zooming on pc .
156 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
I have never owned a prosumer camera in my life . I bought a 30d for a friend as a gift and shot with it a couple of times . The results I get with the 50d far outshine that of the 30d but I can't tell you why . Not an expert . I just know you can't beat the price and the 28 - 135mm lens produces wonderful shots . I like pulling it all the way out , setting the camera on AV mode at 5.6 and getting that beautiful blurry background with my subject in focus . I have two friends with the 30d and they have both found my camera extremely desirable . One attractive quality is that you can see all of the settings when you look in the view finder so you can make adjustments while you are framing up a shot . I can't wait to really learn the camera . The user's manual is okay but I preferred getting the field guide .
158 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
I'm seriously just a beginner . So If you know a lot about a camera , this might not be the review for you . For me , as a beginner , this is an amazing camera . It's taken beautiful pictures . My only suggestion to someone buying this camera who doesnt know about camera , would be to buy a canon 50d book with it . The manual is a little hard to read . Now that I'm getting used to all the functions , I'm just ammazed at what it can do . I couldnt be more pleased with this purchase !
160 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
After reviewing and seeing many cameras , I finally purchased this one because of its great performance compared to price . As always Amazon was great with packaging and delivery date . The product arrived just in time for a trip I made to Vegas . I really took amazing pictures during day and night with results even better than expected .
I am a graphic designer and photographer and like to work with good stuff . So far I have not done as many pictures as I would like but I am sure I will have a good camera for a long time . Thank you Amazon for your outstanding service .
161 4 After reviewing and seeing many cameras , I finally purchased this one because of its great performance compared to price . As always Amazon was great with packaging and delivery date . The product arrived just in time for a trip I made to Vegas . I really took amazing pictures during day and night with results even better than expected .
I am a graphic designer and photographer and like to work with good stuff . So far I have not done as many pictures as I would like but I am sure I will have a good camera for a long time . Thank you Amazon for your outstanding service .
162 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
I've had this camera for only a couple of months . I've been very happy with it . It will probably do more than I will ever need . I'm still learning and seem to find something new every time I use it . It has a very solid feel to it . It may be a little too big and heavy for someone who just wants a camera for point and shoot but that's not what it is made for ( although you can do that ) . It has two shooting modes that you can set up for shots that you use often . If you find yourself in a situation where you need to shoot quickly , you can turn the mode to your saved settings and start shooting . It takes files large enough that you can crop it and still make large prints . Also got a great price at Amazon .
163 4 I've had this camera for only a couple of months . I've been very happy with it . It will probably do more than I will ever need . I'm still learning and seem to find something new every time I use it . It has a very solid feel to it . It may be a little too big and heavy for someone who just wants a camera for point and shoot but that's not what it is made for ( although you can do that ) . It has two shooting modes that you can set up for shots that you use often . If you find yourself in a situation where you need to shoot quickly , you can turn the mode to your saved settings and start shooting . It takes files large enough that you can crop it and still make large prints . Also got a great price at Amazon .
164 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
Pros - The right camera for me to move from the point and shoot to DSLR . Glass compatiblity for my move to the 5D or 1D in the next decade . Intense macro capibilities . Tons of accessories . Fast . Good menu layout and operation .
Cons - expensive , heavy
I really enjoy this camera . My pictures are no longer snap-shot quality . I feel my travel , holidays and family pictures are richer . Occasionally I use the camera to capture images for work and my boss has commented on the high quality of the images .
165 4 Pros - The right camera for me to move from the point and shoot to DSLR . Glass compatiblity for my move to the 5D or 1D in the next decade . Intense macro capibilities . Tons of accessories . Fast . Good menu layout and operation .
Cons - expensive , heavy
I really enjoy this camera . My pictures are no longer snap-shot quality . I feel my travel , holidays and family pictures are richer . Occasionally I use the camera to capture images for work and my boss has commented on the high quality of the images .
166 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
After years with a very expensive Konica / Minolta DSLR and watching the business go over to Sony I agonized over the decision to stay with it because of my considerable investment in not just the camera but also several lenses . Finally I decided to switch to either Nikon or Canon . I wanted to be with a company that would stay put .
I spent considerable time researching i.e . reading lots of literature both in print and on line and actually handling cameras . My conclusion was Canon or Nikon , makes no difference . I liked the features of the 50D , a step up from the Rebel but not so expensive as the top of the line Canons . I didn't need video capability , so this camera just hit me as the one .
Amazon had a very good price and I am comfortable dealing with them so my decision was made .
As to my older expensive equipment , that is one good reason to have adult children . My son was thrilled to get it .
So far , I love this camera . If you want to let the camera make all the decisions you can set it , relax and just shoot away with very good results . If you want to be creative , the possibilities are endless .
I have yet to discover all the potential this 50D has and am still learning . The point is that you can enjoy it right out of the box and then take your time to learn all the cool stuff the camera is able to do .
If the 50D is within your budget , get it . You should love this camera .
167 4 After years with a very expensive Konica / Minolta DSLR and watching the business go over to Sony I agonized over the decision to stay with it because of my considerable investment in not just the camera but also several lenses . Finally I decided to switch to either Nikon or Canon . I wanted to be with a company that would stay put .
I spent considerable time researching i.e . reading lots of literature both in print and on line and actually handling cameras . My conclusion was Canon or Nikon , makes no difference . I liked the features of the 50D , a step up from the Rebel but not so expensive as the top of the line Canons . I didn't need video capability , so this camera just hit me as the one .
Amazon had a very good price and I am comfortable dealing with them so my decision was made .
As to my older expensive equipment , that is one good reason to have adult children . My son was thrilled to get it .
So far , I love this camera . If you want to let the camera make all the decisions you can set it , relax and just shoot away with very good results . If you want to be creative , the possibilities are endless .
I have yet to discover all the potential this 50D has and am still learning . The point is that you can enjoy it right out of the box and then take your time to learn all the cool stuff the camera is able to do .
If the 50D is within your budget , get it . You should love this camera .
168 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
I ordered this camera , took some test shots . . . above ISO 400 it was just aweful . I sent it in to Canon got it back ( they said everything checked out ) fired a few more test shots and still aweful . Under ISO 400 I have no complaints pictures were great ! In my opinion it just isn't versatile enough for the price when it comes to the ISO . My XSi shoots at ISO 800 much better than the 50D : (
Anyway rave reviews to Amazon ! Even after having the camera for nearly 2 months and using the warranty to send it inn for repairs they gladly ( with absolutely no hassle at all ) refunded all of my money and even my return shipping ! I will be putting this money toward the 5D Mark II like I knew I should have to begin with .
169 4 I ordered this camera , took some test shots . . . above ISO 400 it was just aweful . I sent it in to Canon got it back ( they said everything checked out ) fired a few more test shots and still aweful . Under ISO 400 I have no complaints pictures were great ! In my opinion it just isn't versatile enough for the price when it comes to the ISO . My XSi shoots at ISO 800 much better than the 50D : (
Anyway rave reviews to Amazon ! Even after having the camera for nearly 2 months and using the warranty to send it inn for repairs they gladly ( with absolutely no hassle at all ) refunded all of my money and even my return shipping ! I will be putting this money toward the 5D Mark II like I knew I should have to begin with .
170 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
I love this camera . It would be a bit much for a true beginner to handle , the menu's are confusing and if you don't even know what aperture and shutter speed are for , then you may be better suited for a model from the Rebel series . The beauty of this camera lies in the ability to make it work with you , not for you .
If you do get it , then it's so.easy to use . I picked it up the first day and don't think I've stopped yet . I'm not a professional by any means . I may not even be any good ( I only shoot for myself ) but I love it . I got this because I wanted something that would last a very long time and give me the opportunity to learn more about photography without feeling overwhelmed . This did it .
I switched from Nikon to Canon because the ease of the menus . The top screen on this is fantastic , I love that I can see the settings I'm shooting at without turning the LCD screen on or going out of my way to find a settings menu . It's just as easy to switch my settings too .
I do think that it took a bit to realize that a few of the menus are redundant but I guess that's how this caters to everyone . I have not used the live view , I haven't felt the need to yet . I do recommend a tripod if you don't have one . It will only enhance what you do .
The speeds are fast , the pictures are crystal clear and need almost no touch ups except for a few contrast or black balances here and there . I shoot both people and objects and only for fun . This is only a hobby for me but if I ever get to the point that I want to take it up a notch . . I'm covered .
Overall , great purchase and I'm more than happy with it .
171 4 I love this camera . It would be a bit much for a true beginner to handle , the menu's are confusing and if you don't even know what aperture and shutter speed are for , then you may be better suited for a model from the Rebel series . The beauty of this camera lies in the ability to make it work with you , not for you .
If you do get it , then it's so.easy to use . I picked it up the first day and don't think I've stopped yet . I'm not a professional by any means . I may not even be any good ( I only shoot for myself ) but I love it . I got this because I wanted something that would last a very long time and give me the opportunity to learn more about photography without feeling overwhelmed . This did it .
I switched from Nikon to Canon because the ease of the menus . The top screen on this is fantastic , I love that I can see the settings I'm shooting at without turning the LCD screen on or going out of my way to find a settings menu . It's just as easy to switch my settings too .
I do think that it took a bit to realize that a few of the menus are redundant but I guess that's how this caters to everyone . I have not used the live view , I haven't felt the need to yet . I do recommend a tripod if you don't have one . It will only enhance what you do .
The speeds are fast , the pictures are crystal clear and need almost no touch ups except for a few contrast or black balances here and there . I shoot both people and objects and only for fun . This is only a hobby for me but if I ever get to the point that I want to take it up a notch . . I'm covered .
Overall , great purchase and I'm more than happy with it .
172 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
To be fair , all these digital SLRs are just unbelievable achievements , but they get compared to each other , so small things can seem bigger . This is an amazing camera , and so are most of the others .
Compared to the 500D , this one :
- costs more
- is sturdier ( and heavier )
- has NO video mode
- has the same processor at its heart
- has a better user interface
I have found the auto-exposure is imperfect , but that's not so unusual - - I just often prefer tweaking photos slightly from the recommended exposure using the manual setting .
I am frustrated that the bulb setting expects you to hold the shutter button down for the entire exposure ( by definition , bulb photos are long photos , and holding a camera steady while holding the button down is a challenge - - not to mention a pain . Who wants to do that for even a minute , let alone super-long exposures ? But I am told this is industry standard .
This DOES work with my 15 - year-old Canon EF lenses .
The Live View feature is surprisingly limited , but often nice to have available . Certain features don't work when using Live View .
173 4 To be fair , all these digital SLRs are just unbelievable achievements , but they get compared to each other , so small things can seem bigger . This is an amazing camera , and so are most of the others .
Compared to the 500D , this one :
- costs more
- is sturdier ( and heavier )
- has NO video mode
- has the same processor at its heart
- has a better user interface
I have found the auto-exposure is imperfect , but that's not so unusual - - I just often prefer tweaking photos slightly from the recommended exposure using the manual setting .
I am frustrated that the bulb setting expects you to hold the shutter button down for the entire exposure ( by definition , bulb photos are long photos , and holding a camera steady while holding the button down is a challenge - - not to mention a pain . Who wants to do that for even a minute , let alone super-long exposures ? But I am told this is industry standard .
This DOES work with my 15 - year-old Canon EF lenses .
The Live View feature is surprisingly limited , but often nice to have available . Certain features don't work when using Live View .
176 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
Over the XSi . I am a happy ex-owner of a ( sold ) XTi . Upgrading to T1i over the XSi did not interest me , because of its capacity of shooting movies , 15 megapixel resolution and higher price , of course . And the 40D was already out of stock , but that would certainly fill all my needs .
Anyway , about the Canon EOS 50D . . .
Construction is so solid that makes Rebels look like toys . The feel is comfortable - better grip action requires no battery grip , the weight , and the leather finish avoids slippering .
I think the top panel is better than LCD controls . Saves battery life , is not as luminous as the LCD , makes your action more discreet ( the quieter shutter also helps ) .
The shutter should last longer , since its a more advanced body .
Viewfinder is brighter , focusing and shooting ( burst ) is much faster .
The ISO in thirds is great . It makes your exposures perfect , even if you shoot Jpeg .
There are two things I don't like about this camera : the size of the files , and the Live View .
15 megapixel is too much for the majority , professional or not . The cards must be huge if you shoot RAW on a social event . Processing them now takes longer with this 15Mb average RAW files . I'd stick to the 10 / 12 megapixels .
And the Live View feature , according to the manual , can decrease picture quality in some situations . Also , if used to shoot a bright scene , it may damage the curtains / sensor ( can't remember now ) . I rather not to use Live View at all , and never needed - the AF always worked , even on dark situations with the EF 17 - 40 f / 4L USM lens , a relatively dark lens .
Never used a FF camera , but seems to be a step closer to that .
I recommend the 50D and would buy it again !
177 4 Over the XSi . I am a happy ex-owner of a ( sold ) XTi . Upgrading to T1i over the XSi did not interest me , because of its capacity of shooting movies , 15 megapixel resolution and higher price , of course . And the 40D was already out of stock , but that would certainly fill all my needs .
Anyway , about the Canon EOS 50D . . .
Construction is so solid that makes Rebels look like toys . The feel is comfortable - better grip action requires no battery grip , the weight , and the leather finish avoids slippering .
I think the top panel is better than LCD controls . Saves battery life , is not as luminous as the LCD , makes your action more discreet ( the quieter shutter also helps ) .
The shutter should last longer , since its a more advanced body .
Viewfinder is brighter , focusing and shooting ( burst ) is much faster .
The ISO in thirds is great . It makes your exposures perfect , even if you shoot Jpeg .
There are two things I don't like about this camera : the size of the files , and the Live View .
15 megapixel is too much for the majority , professional or not . The cards must be huge if you shoot RAW on a social event . Processing them now takes longer with this 15Mb average RAW files . I'd stick to the 10 / 12 megapixels .
And the Live View feature , according to the manual , can decrease picture quality in some situations . Also , if used to shoot a bright scene , it may damage the curtains / sensor ( can't remember now ) . I rather not to use Live View at all , and never needed - the AF always worked , even on dark situations with the EF 17 - 40 f / 4L USM lens , a relatively dark lens .
Never used a FF camera , but seems to be a step closer to that .
I recommend the 50D and would buy it again !
178 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
Hey , Canon fans ! If you're like me , you have put off buying this camera because it costs a bit more than the Rebel line . When you weigh the camera differences against the cost difference , I promise you that the 50D will come out on top . I previously have owned two Rebels . The kit lens ( 28 - 135mm USM IS ) is very good also . I may never be able to afford Canon's outstanding L-series lenses , but the Canon lenses I do have are Image Stabilized and work perfect for me . The camera is built like a tank and is a little bigger and heavier than the Rebels , but that ends up making the camera feel better in my hands , and I am of average build . The 50D is packed with pro features plus Live View , and is more light sensitive than any other camera I have owned . Amazon had the best price and they had it in my hot little hands in just a few days ! Outstanding camera . Outstanding price . Outstanding company . . . Amazon ! ! ! You may regret putting off this purchase any longer .
180 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
I did a lot of comparison between so many DSLR camera around this price and even bought a Canon EOS 1000D in the beginning .
I also had the Nikon D40 , which was pathetic and disappointing .
This 50D does not disappoint at all .
Robust build quality , decent portability , great battery life , amazing features , image quality , not to mention the admission to join the biggest used camera stuff : lenses , etc .
For this kind of price , it will beat anything else out there : Sony , Pentax , Nikon , etc .
The higher ISO is actually quite amazing , compared to the newer 7D , it only losses after Extended ISO ( 12800 > )
Enough said about this camera , if you're not planning to do any HD filming then save $700 and get this instead of the new 7D .
181 4 I did a lot of comparison between so many DSLR camera around this price and even bought a Canon EOS 1000D in the beginning .
I also had the Nikon D40 , which was pathetic and disappointing .
This 50D does not disappoint at all .
Robust build quality , decent portability , great battery life , amazing features , image quality , not to mention the admission to join the biggest used camera stuff : lenses , etc .
For this kind of price , it will beat anything else out there : Sony , Pentax , Nikon , etc .
The higher ISO is actually quite amazing , compared to the newer 7D , it only losses after Extended ISO ( 12800 > )
Enough said about this camera , if you're not planning to do any HD filming then save $700 and get this instead of the new 7D .
182 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18 - 200mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
What I can say ? I must say They are GREAT PRODUCTS ! They are very easy to use and result of pictures are great . That makes me kind of like a pro . : )
184 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
I will not go in techincal details as many did so it's not neccessary . I had chance to compare 50D with 400D . I know it wasn't a fair comparision however , it was clear enough that 50D gave better images even while using same lens .
50D is heavier and bulkier than 400D and 500D . Keep this in mind if you have a small carrying bag or considering buying one . It's not 1D / 1Ds big nonetheless , it won't fit to small bags you can see here in amazon.com or in retailers .
The 2nd wheel for adjusting aperture and stuff makes things way easier than 4xx and 5xxD class once you get familiar with it . I've used 450D for a while and I found lack of 2nd wheel disturbing . With 50D in full manual mode , it's way easier to control ISO , AF points , exposure and aperture in 2nd knobs presence .
I had chance to do some low light shots and even at ISO 1600 the images were good .
It's a worthy product and considering current pricing ( got it for $950 ) you will get a very good machine for less than $1000 .
185 4 I will not go in techincal details as many did so it's not neccessary . I had chance to compare 50D with 400D . I know it wasn't a fair comparision however , it was clear enough that 50D gave better images even while using same lens .
50D is heavier and bulkier than 400D and 500D . Keep this in mind if you have a small carrying bag or considering buying one . It's not 1D / 1Ds big nonetheless , it won't fit to small bags you can see here in amazon.com or in retailers .
The 2nd wheel for adjusting aperture and stuff makes things way easier than 4xx and 5xxD class once you get familiar with it . I've used 450D for a while and I found lack of 2nd wheel disturbing . With 50D in full manual mode , it's way easier to control ISO , AF points , exposure and aperture in 2nd knobs presence .
I had chance to do some low light shots and even at ISO 1600 the images were good .
It's a worthy product and considering current pricing ( got it for $950 ) you will get a very good machine for less than $1000 .
186 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
I just bought this camera this month . I had planned on buying the Rebel , but decided on the 50D because of the build quality . True , it's a bit heavy , but it feels more solid than the Rebel . I think that a heavy lens , like the 24 - 135mm would be better on a camera more solidly built . I didn't want a lens to outweigh the camera ! The pictures , too , are fantastic . I can see a definite improvement over my small point and shoot camera . Since the 50D is so well built , I hope to use it for years before upgrading .
188 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens ( Electronics )
I had dreamt of buying a good digital camera for a long time . I had been shooting films until now since I could not afford a digital camera that produced the quality I desired .
In short , this camera is worth every penny ( in my opinion of course ) . I totally fell in love with it the day I received it . The picture quality is awesome . The pictures are both sharp and the colors are spectacular . It has all kind of great features but what matters most for me is the picture quality . I already have one of my pictures taken on this camera displayed on a wall in the living room , it is 5.2 feet wide and even despite of the size , the picture quality is good .
189 4 I had dreamt of buying a good digital camera for a long time . I had been shooting films until now since I could not afford a digital camera that produced the quality I desired .
In short , this camera is worth every penny ( in my opinion of course ) . I totally fell in love with it the day I received it . The picture quality is awesome . The pictures are both sharp and the colors are spectacular . It has all kind of great features but what matters most for me is the picture quality . I already have one of my pictures taken on this camera displayed on a wall in the living room , it is 5.2 feet wide and even despite of the size , the picture quality is good .
190 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
The Canon 50D is great . I added the Tamron AF18 - 270mmm F / 3.5 - 6.3 Di II VC LD Aspherical [ IF } Macro ( Model Bo003 ) lens from Amazon to this camera and I am extremely satisfied with their performance together . The quality of my pictures with the new camera and len are significant . I was using a Canon Rebel Xt with a Tamron 18 - 200 lens .
191 4 The Canon 50D is great . I added the Tamron AF18 - 270mmm F / 3.5 - 6.3 Di II VC LD Aspherical [ IF } Macro ( Model Bo003 ) lens from Amazon to this camera and I am extremely satisfied with their performance together . The quality of my pictures with the new camera and len are significant . I was using a Canon Rebel Xt with a Tamron 18 - 200 lens .
194 4 Great product . Higly recommended I've been using it for a while now and I have to say to much to write it here . . . : - ) Really this is a great investment for you or your family great photos last forever ! ! ! !
Also doing a lot of research I found that Amazon.com has the best price . So If you are not decided yet . . . go ahead buy it ! ! !
195 4 Price and a great potential I think it deserves 5 stars
I have read the reviews have warned against the noise and found that there is an exaggeration
199 4 This is an amazing piece of hardware . I've never owned a digital camera until now . I did a great deal of research before purchasing this camera and have done even more reading once I purchased it . I've had a blast taking thousands of photos so far . This is a hobby that I'll enjoy for many years .
202 4 I bought the 50D some four months ago and took it to a couple of trips , family events and photo sessions . I am very happy with it . The picture quality is outstanding , especially portraits and low-light pictures . The features are extensive and pretty handy . I would classify myself as experienced beginner with some ambitions but only little time . Nevertheless I managed to shoot a couple of impressive photos at sports events , parties and landscapes .
The camera is very robust . The material and the built is of high quality . Its fun to take it outdoors and play around with it .
I would definitely recommend this perfect piece of japanese engineering .
Two remarks on negative aspects that were made .
I read complaints about the battery life but I experienced no problems . I never use the life view feature and use other software for image enhancement .
205 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
I have to say they have improved over the 30D I had . The sensor was what I wanted to get . After comparing photos to my D300 Nikon I would have to say at this point that the Nikon has an edge in Photo Quality . Of course this is just my opinion . That could take in several points , different lens , not as familiar with this camera as I am with my D300 yet . I have always thought that their is not that much difference in the two brands .
This camera is a very good camera and has all the bells and whistles that I am qualified to use . Both the Canon and Nikon take very good photos . So I would say it is a personal preference to which one you like or have the accessories for .
206 4 I have to say they have improved over the 30D I had . The sensor was what I wanted to get . After comparing photos to my D300 Nikon I would have to say at this point that the Nikon has an edge in Photo Quality . Of course this is just my opinion . That could take in several points , different lens , not as familiar with this camera as I am with my D300 yet . I have always thought that their is not that much difference in the two brands .
This camera is a very good camera and has all the bells and whistles that I am qualified to use . Both the Canon and Nikon take very good photos . So I would say it is a personal preference to which one you like or have the accessories for .
207 4 Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28 - 135mm f / 3.5 - 5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens
I purchased this product as a replacement / addition for / to my 2005 Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT , which I was using in dusty and wet environments . The body is partially weather and dust sealed , which is useful in the above conditions . It is an improvement in ease of use , and ergonomics . The price point is higher , but the body definitely has less of a plastic like feel . Live view is useful for framing photos , and the additional high speed burst mode avails itself for action shots at 6fps .
The included Digital Photo Professional ( Version 3.5 ) is useful for raw file manipulation . One downside is the requirement for a large and fast compact flash card ( can be pricey ) , if one is to take advantage of jpeg and raw images concomitantly with little compression .
This camera is nice if one requires better results at ISOs 1,600 and 3,200 . Cnet reviews concurs stating this is because the higher resolution delivers extra sharpness without showing significantly more noise .
208 4 A DSLR can provide a lot of benefits over a simple point and shoot camera . With a DSLR , you'll get faster shooting speeds , better optics ( and therefore a better quality picture ) , the ability to change lenses for ultimate flexibility , complete control over image exposure , sharpness , other image quality settings and a lot more .
Like many products , there are entry-level DSLRs , professional-grade D-SLRs , and plenty of models in between . Canon's 50D blurs the line between amateur and professional D-SLR cameras . This camera strikes a good balance with its price and feature set . With the 50D , you get a lot of features you wouldn't find on entry-level models such as Superior burst speed 6.3fps , weather sealed body , All nine autofocus points on the 50D are of the cross type variety , while on the T1i / 500D , only the center one is , Maximum shutter speed of 1 / 8000s , White balance in Kelvin , The viewfinder in the 50D uses a pentaprism while a pentamirror is used for the viewfinder in the 500D . Pentaprism viewfinders give a brighter and larger image compared to pentamirror types . But you won't pay professional-grade prices . Users who are just making the jump to a DSLR , for example will appreciate the 50D's Live View mode , which lets you use the DSLR's LCD to frame an image , similar to the way you would frame an image using a point and shoot camera . For more advanced shooters , the 50D also has full manual controls to give you all the traditional adjustments in image staging for your photographs .
209 4 This review is from :
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics )
I wanted to have the camera for a few months before submitting my review . Now that I've had time to play around and really use it I can here is my review .
Canon 50D
I purchased the camera without the kit lens and opted for the 50mm 1.8 II instead . I wanted something fun to play around with and with faster glass I wouldn't have to push the ISO too high . I also bought the grip which I don't ever want to take off . It really gives the camera a good feel . I had made the trip to a camera store before to check out which camera fit me the best . I was tempted to get the t1i but the Rebel series feels like a toy in my hands . I have smaller hands too but I just didn't like anything the Rebel line had to offer .
I've shot with a SLR before . My first camera was an older Nikon N6006 that my dad got for me . I ended up going Canon because reading over the features for the price range and available glass , Canon seemed like the best choice to me .
Since owning the camera I have also purchased a 580EX II . This is probably the best purchase I have made for this camera . Having this will open up a whole new world of photography for you . The onboard flash is simply , well , useless .
I ended up buying a 18 - 55mm IS lens also . The 50mm on a crop like the 50D is good for portraits but you have to step back a bit to get someone completely in a picture .
My two complaints are as follows :
1 . Noisy at higher ISO's . Not as bad as my G10 so I can deal with it but I wish there was a little bit better performance .
2 . The grip has no AF-On button so you have to reassign it to the * . This isn't a huge deal but it's something that was overlooked when they designed the grip .
Overall I'm very happy with the camera and glad I ended up picking it .
210 4 I wanted to have the camera for a few months before submitting my review . Now that I've had time to play around and really use it I can here is my review .
Canon 50D
I purchased the camera without the kit lens and opted for the 50mm 1.8 II instead . I wanted something fun to play around with and with faster glass I wouldn't have to push the ISO too high . I also bought the grip which I don't ever want to take off . It really gives the camera a good feel . I had made the trip to a camera store before to check out which camera fit me the best . I was tempted to get the t1i but the Rebel series feels like a toy in my hands . I have smaller hands too but I just didn't like anything the Rebel line had to offer .
I've shot with a SLR before . My first camera was an older Nikon N6006 that my dad got for me . I ended up going Canon because reading over the features for the price range and available glass , Canon seemed like the best choice to me .
Since owning the camera I have also purchased a 580EX II . This is probably the best purchase I have made for this camera . Having this will open up a whole new world of photography for you . The onboard flash is simply , well , useless .
I ended up buying a 18 - 55mm IS lens also . The 50mm on a crop like the 50D is good for portraits but you have to step back a bit to get someone completely in a picture .
My two complaints are as follows :
1 . Noisy at higher ISO's . Not as bad as my G10 so I can deal with it but I wish there was a little bit better performance .
2 . The grip has no AF-On button so you have to reassign it to the * . This isn't a huge deal but it's something that was overlooked when they designed the grip .
Overall I'm very happy with the camera and glad I ended up picking it .
214 4 This is a solid camera . The performance and usability are excellent .
The image quality is only so-so . Canon clearly went too far with the resolution on this one . The low-light performance is not significantly better than my 3 year-old Rebel XT ( although the resolution is twice as good ) . I am rather disappointed with an only barely-usable ISO 6400 and lots of noise in the shadow regions . Even shooting in RAW is somewhat disappointing . Further , you really need a very good lens to take advantage of the 15MP .
So overall it's a nice semi-pro camera , and the screen is wonderful , but it does not live up to expectations .
