Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

• - ) ) for 1 year in HS , then took 5 - 6 years camera free , and the last 3 - 4 years with a 30D . I like to shoot anything really : landscapes , macro and plants ( my favorites ) , followed by animals , birds ( 70 / 30 rest vs flight ) , and people / portraits . No sports . I prefer B & W . I use the camera for my own enjoyment / photography practice and at parties and school club events , and lots of travel . It gets a pretty well rounded tour of duty . I had from a 30D before , which I loved . So let me get to the nitty gritty . ( BTW , if you are looking for pixel peeping , you won't get it here . I'm looking to add a more detail and subjective feel of using the camera , and answer the questions I had before I bought . I shoot primes and have 2Ls , so IQ is limited by my skill . I have slightly more money than sense , and I am very anal about noise and IQ . ) I've had the 5D mkII for about 2 - 3 weeks and have only taken about 100 - 150 images with it I would say . Sorry , I've been busy ! # Image Quality / Megapixels Out of this world . The images look very , very real . I don't know what else to say . Smooth colors and grades . Deep blacks . Colors comes out just how I remember them . Noise performance is great , super clean until 800 , even 1600 ISO ( by my standards . I used to hate anything above 400 ) . . It is clearly aimed at people who like to print large , hi-res , fine art style work . Unfortunately the noise is that weird Canon stuff , but its not as bad as I feared , and could pass for film grain . I can shoot handheld indoors with very good results . 21 megapixels is WAY more than I want ; but I can crop to my hearts content and still print big ! I can actually crop images to the exact same frame that my 30D would have taken and have more MP . . . thats actually what pushed me over the edge to buy . Unforutately my 2.4 Ghz imac converts the RAW files very slowly . Editing is still fast enough . There is some debate online that as printers are able to print at higher and higher dpi , higher MP counts may make a difference . I agree with this , but only insofar as a medium format vs 35mm difference ; 8mp will always look great at the common print sizes . PS : Canon , hire some of Nikons engineers to fix the look of your noise . . . . # AF system It would have been nice to have new one , but my 30D AF never really failed me , and this is basically the same . For the money I would have REALLY liked to have the upgrade . Yet since it never hindered me before , and I don't shoot sports or BIF often , it's ok by me . People really complain about this , but seriously . . . the nine points system IS old , but it works and works well enough . To be honest I would rather have the last iteration of a proven AF than the first generation of a new one . # Build quality The slightly bigger size feels much more balanced , and right , than the 30D . My 30D went shooting at glaciers , rain forest , jungle , and forests and in snow , rain , heavy fog , sand etc etc and didn't miss a beat , albeit in only 3 years . With upgraded seals , I have no doubts about this 5DII . The real weather seal of the 1D would be great , but I don't go shooting in downpours or sandstorms . # Full frame vs 1.6 I really miss my 1.6 free zoom factor , especially when it comes to macro . A lot of my shooting is screwed up now , and I have to readjust . But it feels good to be so wide and landscapes are looking great . I'm gonna pick up a long zoom and I should be fine . It is mostly hard to adjust because the 100mm macro on the 1.6 was a real joy to use ( BTW , that lens has given me the most keepers per dollar of anything , buy one if you are debating it ) . # Movie mode / live view Live view is great for macro . The video capability is great and very fun , and it is easy to focus manually with the large screen . I was concerned about having to focus in movie mode , but I like it more than the AF . Even on camcorders the AF isn't great . I guess I might use it video once in a while sitting in the airport or for Grandpa blowing out the candles . The video looks great , having the lens capability and shallow DoF is cool . . . but I barely have enough time to edit my photos , let alone a video . All jokes aside , its useful and nice and a welcome addition ; its better to have than not , especially for quick little moments . # Odds and Ends - The viewfinder is great . I really feel like I am looking through the lens ; my 30D feels like a peephole now . - The AF matrix looks smaller to me , but I can't be certain . I don't know if the spread stays the same as the sensor size increases , but it certainly feels like it . - AF micro adjust lets me be sure my lenses are spot on ( 5 / 7 were ) , the dust shake is nice too . - RF remote capability is a plus - Rear screen is sharp sharp sharp ! - Its great to have more battery bars ; the life is excellent , and now more accurate . - Finally , I don't have all those silly automatic modes on my dial , except for the new Creative Auto . Really . - If you care about the lack of onboard flash . . . .1 . Onboard flash sucks . Buy a real one ( I have a 430EX and its good enough ) you will thank yourself . 2 . You can shoot handheld in low light with this baby anyways . If its dim , ISO has you covered , if its dark , use the external ; the onboard wouldn't cut it then . There is an AF assist lamp on board , but it hasn't fired yet . - Viewfinder blackout is noticeably longer than my 30D ; the change in shutter lag is not . # My complaints - FPS : 4fps on a 2600 dollar pro camera ? If you shoot sports or birds a lot , stick with the 3 / 4 / 50D unless you really want full frame . Or wait for the rumoured 7D / 3D . 4 fps is great for once in a while users ( like me ) though . I don't really mind it . If anything it teaches me to be better about timing . - Why does the camera not have a built in intervelometer ? thats stupid . It has enough screen and processing power to do it . - I can't delete Picture styles : Canon has downloadable styles to use in your 3 custom modes . I shoot RAW , so they are meaningless , but I still want them . Unfortunately I can't delete the default ones I don't use so I can have only my favorites . I would have to transfer the settings manually somehow . . . and record the defaults . - The controls : ok , this REALLY steams my clams . Canon has the big control wheel . I love it . But for some reason they have decided to make the control stick the center of their new ( to me ) menu system . It is small , awkward , far away , and slow . Furthermore , the wheel scrolls up and down : why ? Left and right would be far more useful ( since there are more menus in that direction ; 9 vs 5 ) . You lose 3 / 4 of a star for this Canon . I am a perfectionist . Perfect score means perfect camera , and small things count . - They have this newfangled menu thing that shows all the camera settings at once on the rear screen and you can change all of them . Unfortunately , the top LCD already shows me the info , and using the screen is slower than using the buttons and the wheels . Its useful at night , so I dont have to push the light button though . If you set it to work with the info button ( a Custom Function ) , it is VERY hard ( for me at least ) to get out of . I don't really like it but its starting to grow on me . - The button for the top light is recessed and I have to try pushing it a few times to get it to work . Hopefully its just my copy . Minus 1 / 4 star because I shoot a lot in dimly lit areas . - Please be aware sRAW ( you can shoot RAW at less MP if you want ; it is called an sRAW file ) does not work on Aperture yet ( ! ) # Why I gave it 4 stars and not 5 I would have given it 5 stars if not for the illogical change to the menu controls ( I hate wasting time in menu-land ) and the poor light button . And the lack of intervelometer . I would also like to tell Canon , if by the grace of god you are reading this , that I have an app on my iphone that calculates the hyperfocal distance , something landscape shooters love . On your pro landscape / studio body , can you not BUILD IN this table / formula into the menu ? even better , have the camera set the lens AT the hyperfocal distance ? I know it already has all the data it needs to read that table . THAT would be be every landscape shooter dream come true . # Bottom line : If you are willing to give up the crop factor / free zoom and the FPS ( I prefer to thinking of it as back in the day performance with closer to back in the day level of resolution ) , the 5d mkII will blow your mind . Parties , portraits , kids , pets , animals , sunsets , interiors . . . you are covered . If you were waiting to go to FF . . . you won't be disappointed . I feel this is close to film for me . If you shoot BIF , sports , far away animals . . . you may want to save those upgrade dollars for now . You will be paying to lose zoom and FPS , and the 50D / 40D has pretty good noise performance and IQ from what I read . If you have a 5D already , I can't really give any advice since I've never used it . If you have a 3 / 4 / 50D and REALLY want to go to FF , think carefully about what kind of shooting you do , then wait until Dec and see if the 3D / 7D comes out . I blew my money early , I didn't know about that rumor . Other cameras I considered were a 1DMkII , but the screen is small , its huge , heavy and I would feel like even more of a poser with it , plus I use the screen and crop tool a lot more than max FPS . I also checked out the 5d original , but again , screen too small , DIGIC II , no sensor clean , no lens micro adjust . . . If you are just getting into dSLR , get a 40D ( same as a 50D basically ) , or heck , a 30D ( I love mine ) and get some nice glass . Unless you are rich , then get this . Or if you have small hands , then get the Tl1 / XTi . Rumor has it there is something coming to fill the gap for anyone looking to go up from the 50D , but not wanting a 5D or the pricier 1DMkIII or its s verison . It would be ~ 15mp , ~ 7fps , and ~ the same image quality , and likely FF or 1.3 crop , with a new , better point AF . I think this is possible , but there are reasons for and against this ( ie somewhere for the 50D sports shooter to upgrade to without going to 1D / everyone wants this vs Why would a sports / BIF shooter want to lose the 1.6 crop for comparable IQ ? Esp since Canon is due to upgrade the aging xxD AF , which will be the 7D everyone wants without cannabilizng the 1DmkIII ) . I would maybe want that gap filler , mostly to ease the strain on my computer and keep that high FPS ( its a guy thing , need for speed ) . But computers improve too , and I am VERY happy with the 5dmkII , I may cast an envious eye when / if this 3d / 7d comes ( Dec ? ) but I won't be selling or thinking twice . IMO , a classic camera .
• 003 4  First the good . . . If you're looking for an excellent , full-frame DSLR , the 5D Mk2 is very , very good . It's at least 1 full F-stop more sensitive to light than my Canon 1DS Mk2 . A setting of ASA 800 or 1000 yields about the same noise level as my older camera at ASA 400 . It's autofocus system is very fast and accurate on single shot mode . ( I don't think EF-L series lenses are capable of faster focus action . ) The new LCD screen is gorgeous . 3 diagonal with 900,000 + pixels . It's possibly the best quality LCD screen ever put on a DSLR . The menus are easier to understand and navigate than the 1DS Mk2 ' s menus . Live View is an excellent way to do critical focusing . If you've never used a DSLR with live view , you'll love it . The only negative of live-view is that it really drains your battery and it can only be used for a certain length of time before the CMOS imager circuitry heats up , adding noise to the image . ( In real-life typical shooting , overheating is not a problem and besides the camera will auto cancel live-view if it senses an over temperature condition . ) The huge 21 mega-pixel RAW images are excellent . The camera uses an updated variant on Canon's . CR2 RAW format so if you use an older version of Adobe's Lightroom or Photoshop for image processing , you'll need the latest Lightroom 2.2 or Photoshop CS4 to get the proper RAW converter . I've personally never liked the included software for RAW image processing , but many people are happy with it . The auto-exposure system seems very accurate . . . more accurate than my 1DS Mk2 . I never experienced any black dot phenomenon . But I've only shot RAW images at less than 1200 ASA . The black dot sample images that I've seen on the internet look like simple , in-camera , over-enhancement of highlights . Besides , unless you're shooting sports at night or are part of a CSI team , who shoots at 3200 + ASA anyway ? If you're doing a night shot of a city use a tripod , a longer exposure , and a lower ASA . This will yield rich , clean blacks and much higher detail in highlights . Also , although JPEG's are much smaller , every professional photographer that I know shoots only RAW images . I ordered the camera with the optional BG-E6 battery grip . This grip makes the camera taller and easier to hold . It allows simultaneous use of 2 Canon lithium batteries or 6 - AA alkaline or rechargeables . It's a very valuable accessory to consider . Now the bad . . . I primarily purchased the camera for its ability to shoot great looking 1080P HD video for commercial TV projects . I thought it would be a great source for B-Roll cutaways and inserts . The biggest single problem in the video mode is that you have no control over iris , ISO setting , or shutter speed . There's an exposure lock button that will lock the exposure variables to whatever the LCD displays at the time you press the button . There are no on-screen indicators that show the settings that the camera has chosen for you . The only control you have is the color temperature setting . Basically , you pan the camera around in the scene and let the brightness float up and down . When you see what you think is a good exposure on the rear LCD screen , you press the lock button . Since the exposure lock resets after each scene or take , chances are you won't have consistent exposures over multiple takes of a particular scene . Working with the auto exposure system can sometimes be difficult . I was shooting with my 85mm F1.2 lens . By looking at the iris , it appeared the camera had decided to only open the lens to about an F2.8 and use a much higher ISO setting than necessary to achieve proper exposure . By pointing the camera to some very dark shadows , the iris fully opened . I then panned back to my original scene which appeared to be much cleaner and free of noise . You really need to be able to manually set the ISO & F-stop when shooting video . I adjusted the camera's custom settings to lower the detail enhancement and contrast . These controls effect the quality of jpeg stills but seem to have no effect on a video recording . The camera only records at 30.00fps , not 29.97fps . This tiny .03fps difference means that you have to alter each file's header , using a program such as Apple Cinema Tools , before you can edit 5D footage into a normal , broadcast 1080P / 1080i , 29.97fps timeline . Failure to do this header alteration requires setting up a 30.00fps timeline or rendering every 5D scene on your 29.97fps timeline which yields periodic skipped frames . There is no 24P ( 23.98 ) setting . As far as I'm concerned , there is no logical reason that Canon chose 30.00fps instead of 29.97fps . No broadcast TV or film standard operates at 30.00fps . Maybe Canon will correct this with a future firmware update . Please note that if you're only shooting high quality videos for web release , the 30.00fps speed won't present a problem . To simulate the film-like cadence of a movie camera's 180 degree shutter at 30.00fps , the 5D Mk2 ' s shutter should be set to 1 / 60 of a second exposure time . There is no way to tell what shutter setting the camera is using during a scene . My gut feeling from looking at camera video is that the 5D Mk2 often uses 1 / 30 of a second . The camera's LCD screen is blanked whenever an HDMI monitor is plugged in . If you're doing a commercial shoot with clients , this means that either the cameraman or the clients can see what's being shot , but not both at the same time . . . You could add an external HDMI active splitter , but this would also require adding and using an external monitor at the camera . If you only plan to shoot by yourself , this shouldn't present a problem . To do manual follow-focusing using the rear LCD screen , consider purchasing Hoodman's 3 LCD viewer . It's available from B & H and other retailers and it works very well . Of course , you'll have to figure a custom way to attach it to the back of the 5D Mk2 using rubber bands or Velcro . The 5D Mk2 records what I would call memo quality audio with it's internal , mono microphone . You really notice the AGC raising and lowering the recording volume . If someone claps their hands , coughs , or makes a loud sound , the audio level and background sound dives down , then very noticeably fades back up . There is no headphone output or on-screen audio display so there's no way to confirm the level of your audio . If you plug an external mic into the camera , there is no indication to confirm even the presence of an audio signal . The only thing you can do is record a scene , then playback and carefully listen to the recorded file . If you plan to use this camera on a professional sync-sound project , you'd really have to consider double system sound recording . Recoding the audio on a separate recorder adds a major level of increased hassle but it's the only way to insure excellent audio . The audio from the camera's recording can be used as a post-production sync reference . Another audio question is why Canon chose to record audio at a sample rate of 44.1kz instead of the industry standard 48kz . Apple's Final Cut Pro can handle almost any sample rate but other NLE's can't . Once again , if you're only shooting video for web release , the CD sample rate of 44.1kz shouldn't present a problem . In certain low light or low contrast scenes , the H .264 encoding block artifacts are noticeable . In my opinion , the 5D Mk2 artifacts are more noticeable than the H .264 encoding used in Canon's own HF10 , 1080 video camera even though the 5D's recorded bit rate is higher . The camera's signal-to-noise ratio is very good and very clean . It's a more noise-free video picture than my $80,000 Sony F900R HDCam . . . except for the color red . Red objects are noisy . Most colors in a scene seem noise free , except red . This is especially true with low brightness red objects such as those in shadow areas . The 5D Mk2 exhibits no rolling shutter characteristics that are associated with Nikon's D90 . The 5D Mk2 has the characteristic of clipping to flat-line black very low-light or shadow details in an image . This yields a gutsy rich , excellent , film-like quality for many scenes , but you can't do any post-production recovery of lost low-light details . The camera does a pretty good job of rolling scene highlights off to a hard clip at 100 units of video . Possibly , some of the problems I've detailed here are related to the specific 5D Mk2 that I purchased ( serial #0320105XXX ) but I don't think this is the case . Hopefully , Canon will issue a firmware update to address the camera's video problems . New firmware could possibly add manual control to the video capture functions and slightly lower the frame rate to the standard 29.97fps . All cameras at any price level have positives and negatives . I've never found or used the perfect camera . The Canon 5d Mk2 is an excellent still camera and in my opinion , a not quite ready for prime time HDTV video camera . Possibly the camera was rushed to market to compete ( or cancel out ) the much hyped video features of Nikon's rolling shutter D90 . It is an excellent glimpse into the future of hybrid still & video DSLR cameras .
• 004 4  I just got my 5D mark II today from Amazon ( not the cold-blooded 3rd party dealer ) . My order was Camera plus 24 - 105 lens kit at $3499 but somehow it came with body only . I need to work out with Amazon later . Anyway . My 1st DSLR is Canon 40D , which is my baseline for the comparison . Pros : 1 . Full frame = Real wide angle . My 17 - 40 lens can now work as it's supposed to . 2 . High ISO with amazing quality . The noise level at ISO 12800 ( H1 ) in 5D ~ = ISO 1250 - 1600 in 40D . Noise software ( ex : Noiseware ) can still produce an acceptable image with 12800 . Poor quality in 25600 ( H2 ) is expected , and it can be used just in case . So my upper limit boosts from 1250 in 40D to 6400 in 5D which is a 2 - 1 / 3 stop jump ( Thanks for Johnny Chan's correction ) . 3 . High quality LCD with a light sensor , so no need to adjust LCD brightness from time to time . It's neat . 4 . Autofocus microadjustment by lens . 5 . Others such as high pixel , HD video , HDMI port . . . etc , but those are not really a must to me . Still can get 30x20 printout with 10MP 40D by Photoshop . Cons : 1 . Sync speed = 200ns in 5D while 250ns in 40D . I use Canon 580EX II a lot for portrait shots . So 1 - stop shutter speed matters . ( Even I can use high speed mode in 580Ex ) . 2 . Frame-per-second = 3.9 in 5D but 6.5 in 40D Overall , it's a great upgrade to me and worth every penny . - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 12 / 24 / 2008 update - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1 . After calling / email to customer support , Amazon has refunded $800 price difference in 10 hours . I cannot satify more than this . 2 . New RAW from 5D MK II is no longer supported by Photoshop CS3 and earlier versions . That means upgrading to Photoshop CS4 is a MUST if shooting with RAW . It's another hidden cost . . . 3 . Just got the battery grip BG-E6 today from Adorama for ~ $270 . The pros is now it takes 6 AA batteries or 2 LP-E3 ( which is also expensive ~ $75 and also out-of-stock in most of places ) . . . The cons is too heavy for me along with 24 - 70mm 2.8L lens .
• 005 4  I've been looking at the Canon 5D Mark II for a long time - since before it came out in late 2008 . It's taken a while but I finally pulled the trigger . My first Canon SLR was the EOS 650 - the autofocus SLR that started it all . Then in early 2000 ' s I got the Digital Rebel , then an XTi and quickly after that the Canon 40D . I've liked all the digital SLR's I've used to date but only the 40D reminded me of the build quality and heft that my original 650 had . And although you get used to it , the 1.6 crop factor of the sensor size is really a big difference on the wide-angle side . Over time I also upgraded my lenses to the 17 - 40 F4L , the 24 - 105 F4L , the 70 - 200 F2.8L and the 100 - 300 F4.5 - 5.6L - with IS in all but the 17 - 40 . I guess I'd call myself an advanced amateur . My usual approach to photography is to compose a good shot and then crop later to a better composition to get my keepers . With the 40D and my outfit of lenses I can pretty much do it all - especially on the telephoto side . However , I noticed that when you crop significantly a 10.1MP image , the end result can have significantly reduced image quality . So - I determined a little more megapixels to work with would be helpful . Next , the 40D's max ISO is 1600 but at 800 the noise can be a bit of a distraction . The simple solution is to stay below 800 but that requires a flash or photos of stationary objects in darker settings . So - I determined that something with better light sensitivity would be helpful . I noticed that some of my lenses were sharper than others on the 40D . I sent the body to Canon with my 24 - 105 to get the focusing matched and the results were good . But it was a one-size fits all solution . So - I determined that something that offered lens microadjustment would be helpful . I watched and waited patiently for the brouhaha of enthusiam for the 5D MarkII to settle down as I'm not the sort of sucker that pays more than MSRP for anything . I knew my time would come , I'd get my 5DMarkII - even if my wife said no . Now the MSRP is $200 less ! Finally , along comes this blasted Canon 7D to totally ruin my plan . It solves my megapixel issue , it solves my ISO issue , it has lens microadjustment ( as does the 50D ) it even offers an advanced video capability and new and improved autofocusing system . And it's $800 + less expensive . What a quandary . . . . now what ? With much consternation and angst I debated over and over the 7D or 5DMII . On the one hand , on the other had - you know the drill . Is the 5DMII worth it ? I put my 17 - 40 lens on the 40D and then on my EOS650 and like I said - the difference is huge between a full frame and cropped sensor . I'm not a video-enthusiast and I'm not really sure what the big deal is about 24p vs 30p so that wasn't too important . I believe with autofocusing - it's not the arrow , it's the indian and unless something's out of wack your images should be focused or you're making a mistake . So , I took the plunge and purchased the 5D Mark II . It's awesome . The look and feel is very EOS-like . Not too different than my 40D - probably a little better in fact . I like the Creative Auto mode a lot and the menu on the LCD is great . The ISO range is totally worth it . I take shots routinely at 3200 and they look like 400 on the 40D ( very minimal noise / graininess ) . When I use a flash - the results are amazing . I microadjusted the camera for all the lenses I own , and as expected the settings for each were slightly different . Now my images are spot-on , unless I screw up ( again - it's not the arrow , it's the indian ) . To top it all off - Canon is coming out with a firmware update to add 24p ( et al ) to the 5DMark II . The Live-view mode is much simpler than on the 40D and focusing is very easy . The 21 Megapixels is way more than I really need but when I crop my images I get great results so I'm delighted there . I delete images I don't like so my storage constraints are limited . Finally - the full-frame sensor gives me all the image my considerable lens investment can provide and offers me opportunity on the wide angle side that the 7D couldn't . It's a big deal and not to be discounted ( although you can get an EFS 10 - 22 to make up for it on a cropped body ) . I'm sure the 7D is an awesome camera too and I bet the autofocus system is an improvement . However - if you're like me , you've got great lenses , you've been patiently waiting for the hysteria to calm down , and you're ready to change camera bodies then I totally recommend going full frame and getting the 5D Mark II .
• 006 4  I took deliver in mid-December and now have around 2,000 pictures , mostly taken on a cruise . The resolution is stunning , but only as good as the lens used . The 24 - 105 supplied in the kit is good , but a little soft compared to my very good EF-L 70 - 200 IS f4 . I took 80% of my shots with the 24 - 105 but looked for opportunities to use the 70 - 200 instead , particularly for scenics . I'll probably buy a prime wide angle or wide angle zoom for the big , wide scencis , where the 24 - 105 gets particularly soft . As you'd expect , it's pretty solid through the middle of its range . Shooting at ISO 1600 and 3200 was amazing , yielding lots of early morning and late evening scenics and hand held candids of the kids inside . When I put on the Speedlite for a big New Year's party , those results were also stunning . Yet , for a full room shoot with baloons dropping , I went to ISO 3200 and used available light with a great result . I bought the 5D MkII for stills , so I haven't even tried the video yet . It's nice to have that on hand . I did use live view several times . That's quick and easy to use when you need it . I've used jpeg rather than RAW because I'd be taking so many photos . There are only four or five instances out of 2000 where I wish that I'd taken RAW . With the jpegs I cropped a dozen or so and altered contrast on just a couple . I generally shot the scenics at 1 / 3 stop under . I used the lens hoods 90 + % of the time and kept a Hoya Pro UV filter on at all times . Black dots have not been an issue , but I haven't taken any shots that would lead to them , according to the causes I've read about . I'd rate the body-only as five-star and only give the 4 - star overall for the kit , given the limitations of the 24 - 105 zoom in the kit . It's actually a very competitive zoom for this range , but I immediately saw a difference for the better with my EF 70 - 200 . They're both L-series , but the wide angles are challenging for a super zoom . Given the low noise at 3200 ISO , I found the f4 lens speed to be plenty fast . The clarity at high ISO was the biggest positive surprise for me .
• 007 4  I shot 35mm film ages ago , but stopped when the cost of purchasing film and processing fees became prohibitive . I have been a photographer in one form or another for nearly 20 years . I decided that I definitely wanted to go digital , but was not happy with any of the cropped sensor bodies available at the time ( early 2000 ' s ) . When the 1Ds and 5D models first became available , I drooled , but couldn't justify the amount of money . So I waited . Along came the 5D Mark II ( or as we say in the software industry , version 2.0 ) The price was lower than the original 5D and the quality and speed were even better then the now-three year old model . I saved my pennies and nickels for a while and finally purchased one ! From the moment I picked up the demonstrator model in the store , I knew this was the camera for me . Well balanced , large view-finder , and * gasp * video ! I'm not much of a videographer , but seriously , taking HD clips with a prime lens on a full-frame sensor is just insane ! Pros : - Low-light performance has to be seen to be believed . I'm sure you have heard the hype , but it's not hype . You really can take reasonable pictures in much darker rooms than you ever thought possible . - Well balanced in your hands - Simple menu system that does not require an engineering degree to use . - Image quality ( IQ ) that simply blows away everything else in its class . - Price is actually reasonable for what you get ; hundreds less than the competition . - Video ! Cons : - The IQ is _ too _ good . You can actually tell the difference between pictures taken with L glass and those that were not . - Frame rate isn't great for sports . If this is your intended use , look at the 7D or 1D . - Video limited in odd ways . Then again , this is a DSLR , not a camcorder . In spite of what I just said about taking pictures with L glass , this camera is perfectly serviceable with regular lenses . Just realize that they are consumer grade and will have issues when shot wide open or when at the minimum or maximum of the zoom range . That said , the nifty fifty ( 50mm f / 1.8 ) that sells for around $100 takes astonishingly good pictures . If you're just starting out , the lenses that I would recommend buying with this body are : 17 - 40mm f / 4 L - Eye-popping landscapes . The 16 - 35mm f / 2.8 L is a stop faster , but neither lens will see much indoor use as you would have to be mere inches away from your subject to fill the frame . The extra stop also doubles the price with little benefit in the scenarios that it is likely to be used . At 2.8 the faster lens is quite soft , and the image quality in general is not quite as good . Save your money and get the 17 - 40 . You won't be sorry ! 24 - 70mm f / 2.8 L - Fantastic walk-around lens . The 24 - 105mm f / 4 that comes in the 5DMkII kit has more reach and is image stabilized , but I still prefer the speed of the 24 - 70 . You can do more with it in lower light sitations . 70 - 200mm f / 2.8 L - The IS version of this lens is silly expensive , but the standard version shares the same glass with its brother . For portraits and weddings , you cannot have a finer lens . The f / 4 cousins are smaller and lighter . If you plan to shoot outdoors most of the time where there is sufficient light , then you should be fine with it . Indoors you will find yourself using a flash more often , even with the IS version of the f / 4 . The bokeh from the f / 2.8 is noticeably better too . 50mm f / 1.8 or f / 1.4 - The L version of this lens is f / 1.2 and about $1k more . It's soft at f / 1.2 and shoots its best at f / 1.4 and higher . The L glass _ is _ better than its cheaper cousins , but is it really worth it ? This is one of the rare cases where there is little need to buy the L version . Buy the f / 1.4 for $350 or the f / 1.8 for $100 and enjoy it .
• 008 4  I've used and throughly enjoyed a 5D for a couple of years , and have found it to be a simply outstanding full-frame camera . Like a lot of people , I was eagerly looking forward to the 5D Mark II , and pre-ordered one . After using it for a few weeks , I am pleased to report that this is an excellent update to the 5D . If you're researching this camera , you've probably heard about the black dot problem ( basically , some dark pixels to the right of blown highlights ) . Unless you're printing photos in the several feet by several feet size , you'll never see them . Sure , I'll download a firmware fix when it's available , but in the meantime , I've never encountered even the slightest problem in real-world use . Size and controls are very comparable to the 5D - you'll feel at ease very quickly . The viewfinder is fantastic - - bigger , brighter , and a very welcome addition . There are many under the skin upgrades , the biggest being 21.1 megapixels . So much more flexibility in shooting , but be prepared for some huge raw files ! A processor upgrade ( DIGIC 4 ) keeps things moving along at a good clip . I can't comment on the HD video capture since I'm just dabbling with it at the moment and have essentially no experience as a videographer . But , looking forward to learning . The video capture was just icing on the cake for me - bought it for still photos . Disappointments are very few and far between , such as the fact that the battery pack is a different design , so it can't be interchanged with the 5D . Supposedly , it has a longer life , but model interchangeability would be nice to keep the add-on costs down . I also regularly shoot with my 40D and Rebel ( with the latter converted to IR ) , so the greater the interchangeability , the better . In short , this is an outstanding camera , and one that will be a welcome addition to anyone's kit . If you already have a 5D and use it a lot , the Mark II is well worth the cost . The kit is a good value versus the body - - the 24 - 105 f / 4 L IS is one of the best walk around lens available . Should you not have a need for it , you can get a good price for it on the used market . If you're presently working with a crop sensor camera , you will be amazed at what a full frame will do for you ( although , be prepared to spend some coin on some good glass - - once you get the L lens fever , you'll never want to go back ! ) . Keep in mind that the original 5D is still available , and going at a very nice price new ( and some outright steals for used bodies ) . The original is still a fantastic camera , and well worth considering if budget is tight . One final point - - the RAW files are not compatable with CS3 . But , the recent update to Lightroom ( 2.2 ) solves that problem . No need to update to CS4 just for that .
• 010 4  Yes , I have the mk2 in hand . About 5 days now . Pictures after processing looks very similar to the original 5d , which is good because I don't have to change my workflow AT ALL . Of course the differences being size / resolution , and . . now I don't have to have a different workflow for any ISO above 400 . I am actually using auto ISO - previously unavailable on the original 5D - because the images look so good . It has not yet gone above 3200 in Auto mode ( I have fast glass ) . It's smart enough to know your focal length and seems to generally go by the 1 / focal-length rule for shutter speed , adjusting ISO at it needs to . Video ? look on youtube for 5dmk2 Blueray Heli . Make sure you watch in HD . There's a couple things to get used to . 1 ) the shutter button is much more easy to press than the original 5d . I've taken a few accidental shots so far , but I'm learning . 2 ) the LCD resolution is fantastic . But in mixed light , esp . with fluorescents , the LCD shows kind of funky . Perhaps it is showing the true nasty nature of fluorescent lighting mixed with flash or sunlight . Files are huge , transfer is slow using usb2 now . No black dots so far . No banding . Don't believe all the hype . I'm sure people have problems , but it's been blown so way out of proportion . As far as Amazon , they're having trouble meeting demand like everyone else . The high prices are not theirs . If you don't like Amazon's price then go pick it up at a local retailer - you know the one with the big yellow sign - with a 10% coupon and cancel your order if they upset you so or if you really can't wait .
• 011 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics ) In real world and in the studio , I'm shocked at the image quality difference from my old 5D I bought 4 years ago . I'm kicking myself for not buying this earlier . Color fidelity , contrast , sharpness , color balance , focusing all better . I'm surprised that the extra resolution really did help . The large files have a lot of headroom for mistakes . While most reviews for this type of item are rationalizing a large purchase , here it goes anyway . When I first purchased the camera , I had cold feet and was ready to return because of the price . But after 2 months , I would buy it again even if I broke it . Alternatives are really overrated . Nikon has a far more aggressive marketing team than in the past that exaggerates differences , so take what you read with a grain of salt . Lots of people are drinking Nikon Kool-Aid right now and defend them to the death . Overall Canon is a better SYSTEM , although I openly admit things I like better about Nikon : button layout , viewfinder , body design , built in infrared flash control , built in flash , and the 14 - 24mm lens . But other things : low resolution alternatives , poor third party support ( pocketwizard and adobe raw ) , overprices lenses with no midprice alternatives , poor video or no video , etc . For instance , Canon makes a 17 - 40L for much less than the 16 - 35L . A 70 - 200 4 IS or no IS , 70 - 200 2.8 IS or no IS . Nikon only makes the expensive versions , which is why I always see Nikon owners with cheap lenses or mid-prices Sigma Lenses . Canon owners almost always have Canon lenses . Anyway : Pros : - Outrageous RAW headroom for mistakes , far beyond the 5Dmk1 . In outdoor portraits with strobes , I can still get a high quality images when the strobes don't fire and leave me with a - 2ev shot . When making outrageous changes in Photoshop , files respond beautifully . RAW files are monstrous , however . - Picture quality out of camera saves serious time in photoshop . - The screen is finally useful in judging exposure . You can clearly see if the skin tones are over and under exposed , hotspots in a poor lighting setup , etc . You'll still see more detail in shadows on the computer , however . - ISO sensitivity : one of the best today . I shot out of a car window at twilight in a spooky looking town and got amazing shots at 6400 + . I shoot more for fun since I've had this camera . - Great customization and cool menu controls . - I laughed at video but am starting to use it regularly at weddings . Amazing quality of expensive video cameras . Tricky to learn with autofocus . Must use a tripod . - Even more detail out of my lenses ( except 100 - 400 ) - Everything improved from old 5D - Much better image quality than 1Ds Mkii and iii . - Canon lenses a much better value than Nikon . Cons - MINUS ONE STAR - second position of power switch was broke when arrived , so I couldn't use any manual features . Had to order a new one . - Pre-planned obsolescence ; just look at the 7D with built in speedlight control , extra video switch , auto-focus system , pitch-leveler , 1.0 viewfilder , etc . The sensor on this thing is still WAY better , and I needed another camera body now . But , it has features such as video that are way ahead of the competition . - File size is getting ludicrous , especially when you need to export to TIFF , but WORTH IT . Unlike 7D and others , however , that extra file size actually has way more detail . Other high MP cameras can't justify their file sizes . sRaw not much smaller . - My 100 - 400mm L Canon lens cannot keep up with this high mp , full frame camera . Your worst glass will look REALLY BAD with this camera . Even sigma lenses look better . Looks much better on an APS-C . - I still sometimes miss the focusing system on my old 20D . Maybe I'll buy a 7D for bird shooting . People really exaggerate the differences in focusing systems , but it honestly could use improvement . - Viewfinder not as good as Nikon's or Canon 7D . Notes : shoots with 17 - 40 4L , 24 - 70 2.8L , 70 - 200mm 2.8 IS L , 100 - 400mm L , Lensbaby , Sigma 12 - 24mm fullframe ,
• 012 4  In real world and in the studio , I'm shocked at the image quality difference from my old 5D I bought 4 years ago . I'm kicking myself for not buying this earlier . Color fidelity , contrast , sharpness , color balance , focusing all better . I'm surprised that the extra resolution really did help . The large files have a lot of headroom for mistakes . While most reviews for this type of item are rationalizing a large purchase , here it goes anyway . When I first purchased the camera , I had cold feet and was ready to return because of the price . But after 2 months , I would buy it again even if I broke it . Alternatives are really overrated . Nikon has a far more aggressive marketing team than in the past that exaggerates differences , so take what you read with a grain of salt . Lots of people are drinking Nikon Kool-Aid right now and defend them to the death . Overall Canon is a better SYSTEM , although I openly admit things I like better about Nikon : button layout , viewfinder , body design , built in infrared flash control , built in flash , and the 14 - 24mm lens . But other things : low resolution alternatives , poor third party support ( pocketwizard and adobe raw ) , overprices lenses with no midprice alternatives , poor video or no video , etc . For instance , Canon makes a 17 - 40L for much less than the 16 - 35L . A 70 - 200 4 IS or no IS , 70 - 200 2.8 IS or no IS . Nikon only makes the expensive versions , which is why I always see Nikon owners with cheap lenses or mid-prices Sigma Lenses . Canon owners almost always have Canon lenses . Anyway : Pros : - Outrageous RAW headroom for mistakes , far beyond the 5Dmk1 . In outdoor portraits with strobes , I can still get a high quality images when the strobes don't fire and leave me with a - 2ev shot . When making outrageous changes in Photoshop , files respond beautifully . RAW files are monstrous , however . - Picture quality out of camera saves serious time in photoshop . - The screen is finally useful in judging exposure . You can clearly see if the skin tones are over and under exposed , hotspots in a poor lighting setup , etc . You'll still see more detail in shadows on the computer , however . - ISO sensitivity : one of the best today . I shot out of a car window at twilight in a spooky looking town and got amazing shots at 6400 + . I shoot more for fun since I've had this camera . - Great customization and cool menu controls . - I laughed at video but am starting to use it regularly at weddings . Amazing quality of expensive video cameras . Tricky to learn with autofocus . Must use a tripod . - Even more detail out of my lenses ( except 100 - 400 ) - Everything improved from old 5D - Much better image quality than 1Ds Mkii and iii . - Canon lenses a much better value than Nikon . Cons - MINUS ONE STAR - second position of power switch was broke when arrived , so I couldn't use any manual features . Had to order a new one . - Pre-planned obsolescence ; just look at the 7D with built in speedlight control , extra video switch , auto-focus system , pitch-leveler , 1.0 viewfilder , etc . The sensor on this thing is still WAY better , and I needed another camera body now . But , it has features such as video that are way ahead of the competition . - File size is getting ludicrous , especially when you need to export to TIFF , but WORTH IT . Unlike 7D and others , however , that extra file size actually has way more detail . Other high MP cameras can't justify their file sizes . sRaw not much smaller . - My 100 - 400mm L Canon lens cannot keep up with this high mp , full frame camera . Your worst glass will look REALLY BAD with this camera . Even sigma lenses look better . Looks much better on an APS-C . - I still sometimes miss the focusing system on my old 20D . Maybe I'll buy a 7D for bird shooting . People really exaggerate the differences in focusing systems , but it honestly could use improvement . - Viewfinder not as good as Nikon's or Canon 7D . Notes : shoots with 17 - 40 4L , 24 - 70 2.8L , 70 - 200mm 2.8 IS L , 100 - 400mm L , Lensbaby , Sigma 12 - 24mm fullframe ,
• 013 4  First , you can buy the body for 2600 from most stores / online , I dont know why Amazon is charging 3K . Let me give a quick rundown so you know where I am coming from . I am a serious amateur , did film photography ( developed my own film : - ) ) for 1 year in HS , then took 5 - 6 years camera free , and the last 3 - 4 years with a 30D . I like to shoot anything really : landscapes , macro and plants ( my favorites ) , followed by animals , birds ( 70 / 30 rest vs flight ) , and people / portraits . No sports . I prefer B & W . I use the camera for my own enjoyment / photography practice and at parties and school club events , and lots of travel . It gets a pretty well rounded tour of duty . I had from a 30D before , which I loved . So let me get to the nitty gritty . ( BTW , if you are looking for pixel peeping , you won't get it here . I'm looking to add a more detail and subjective feel of using the camera , and answer the questions I had before I bought . I shoot primes and have 2Ls , so IQ is limited by my skill . I have slightly more money than sense , and I am very anal about noise and IQ . ) I've had the 5D mkII for about 2 - 3 weeks and have only taken about 100 - 150 images with it I would say . Sorry , I've been busy ! # Image Quality / Megapixels Out of this world . The images look very , very real . I don't know what else to say . Smooth colors and grades . Deep blacks . Colors comes out just how I remember them . Noise performance is great , super clean until 800 , even 1600 ISO ( by my standards . I used to hate anything above 400 ) . . It is clearly aimed at people who like to print large , hi-res , fine art style work . Unfortunately the noise is that weird Canon stuff , but its not as bad as I feared , and could pass for film grain . I can shoot handheld indoors with very good results . 21 megapixels is WAY more than I want ; but I can crop to my hearts content and still print big ! I can actually crop images to the exact same frame that my 30D would have taken and have more MP . . . thats actually what pushed me over the edge to buy . Unforutately my 2.4 Ghz imac converts the RAW files very slowly . Editing is still fast enough . There is some debate online that as printers are able to print at higher and higher dpi , higher MP counts may make a difference . I agree with this , but only insofar as a medium format vs 35mm difference ; 8mp will always look great at the common print sizes . PS : Canon , hire some of Nikons engineers to fix the look of your noise . . . . # AF system It would have been nice to have new one , but my 30D AF never really failed me , and this is basically the same . For the money I would have REALLY liked to have the upgrade . Yet since it never hindered me before , and I don't shoot sports or BIF often , it's ok by me . People really complain about this , but seriously . . . the nine points system IS old , but it works and works well enough . To be honest I would rather have the last iteration of a proven AF than the first generation of a new one . # Build quality The slightly bigger size feels much more balanced , and right , than the 30D . My 30D went shooting at glaciers , rain forest , jungle , and forests and in snow , rain , heavy fog , sand etc etc and didn't miss a beat , albeit in only 3 years . With upgraded seals , I have no doubts about this 5DII . The real weather seal of the 1D would be great , but I don't go shooting in downpours or sandstorms . # Full frame vs 1.6 I really miss my 1.6 free zoom factor , especially when it comes to macro . A lot of my shooting is screwed up now , and I have to readjust . But it feels good to be so wide and landscapes are looking great . I'm gonna pick up a long zoom and I should be fine . It is mostly hard to adjust because the 100mm macro on the 1.6 was a real joy to use ( BTW , that lens has given me the most keepers per dollar of anything , buy one if you are debating it ) . # Movie mode / live view Live view is great for macro . The video capability is great and very fun , and it is easy to focus manually with the large screen . I was concerned about having to focus in movie mode , but I like it more than the AF . Even on camcorders the AF isn't great . I guess I might use it video once in a while sitting in the airport or for Grandpa blowing out the candles . The video looks great , having the lens capability and shallow DoF is cool . . . but I barely have enough time to edit my photos , let alone a video . All jokes aside , its useful and nice and a welcome addition ; its better to have than not , especially for quick little moments . # Odds and Ends - The viewfinder is great . I really feel like I am looking through the lens ; my 30D feels like a peephole now . - The AF matrix looks smaller to me , but I can't be certain . I don't know if the spread stays the same as the sensor size increases , but it certainly feels like it . - AF micro adjust lets me be sure my lenses are spot on ( 5 / 7 were ) , the dust shake is nice too . - RF remote capability is a plus - Rear screen is sharp sharp sharp ! - Its great to have more battery bars ; the life is excellent , and now more accurate . - Finally , I don't have all those silly automatic modes on my dial , except for the new Creative Auto . Really . - If you care about the lack of onboard flash . . . .1 . Onboard flash sucks . Buy a real one ( I have a 430EX and its good enough ) you will thank yourself . 2 . You can shoot handheld in low light with this baby anyways . If its dim , ISO has you covered , if its dark , use the external ; the onboard wouldn't cut it then . There is an AF assist lamp on board , but it hasn't fired yet . - Viewfinder blackout is noticeably longer than my 30D ; the change in shutter lag is not . # My complaints - FPS : 4fps on a 2600 dollar pro camera ? If you shoot sports or birds a lot , stick with the 3 / 4 / 50D unless you really want full frame . Or wait for the rumoured 7D / 3D . 4 fps is great for once in a while users ( like me ) though . I don't really mind it . If anything it teaches me to be better about timing . - Why does the camera not have a built in intervelometer ? thats stupid . It has enough screen and processing power to do it . - I can't delete Picture styles : Canon has downloadable styles to use in your 3 custom modes . I shoot RAW , so they are meaningless , but I still want them . Unfortunately I can't delete the default ones I don't use so I can have only my favorites . I would have to transfer the settings manually somehow . . . and record the defaults . - The controls : ok , this REALLY steams my clams . Canon has the big control wheel . I love it . But for some reason they have decided to make the control stick the center of their new ( to me ) menu system . It is small , awkward , far away , and slow . Furthermore , the wheel scrolls up and down : why ? Left and right would be far more useful ( since there are more menus in that direction ; 9 vs 5 ) . You lose 3 / 4 of a star for this Canon . I am a perfectionist . Perfect score means perfect camera , and small things count . - They have this newfangled menu thing that shows all the camera settings at once on the rear screen and you can change all of them . Unfortunately , the top LCD already shows me the info , and using the screen is slower than using the buttons and the wheels . Its useful at night , so I dont have to push the light button though . If you set it to work with the info button ( a Custom Function ) , it is VERY hard ( for me at least ) to get out of . I don't really like it but its starting to grow on me . - The button for the top light is recessed and I have to try pushing it a few times to get it to work . Hopefully its just my copy . Minus 1 / 4 star because I shoot a lot in dimly lit areas . - Please be aware sRAW ( you can shoot RAW at less MP if you want ; it is called an sRAW file ) does not work on Aperture yet ( ! ) # Why I gave it 4 stars and not 5 I would have given it 5 stars if not for the illogical change to the menu controls ( I hate wasting time in menu-land ) and the poor light button . And the lack of intervelometer . I would also like to tell Canon , if by the grace of god you are reading this , that I have an app on my iphone that calculates the hyperfocal distance , something landscape shooters love . On your pro landscape / studio body , can you not BUILD IN this table / formula into the menu ? even better , have the camera set the lens AT the hyperfocal distance ? I know it already has all the data it needs to read that table . THAT would be be every landscape shooter dream come true . # Bottom line : If you are willing to give up the crop factor / free zoom and the FPS ( I prefer to thinking of it as back in the day performance with closer to back in the day level of resolution ) , the 5d mkII will blow your mind . Parties , portraits , kids , pets , animals , sunsets , interiors . . . you are covered . If you were waiting to go to FF . . . you won't be disappointed . I feel this is close to film for me . If you shoot BIF , sports , far away animals . . . you may want to save those upgrade dollars for now . You will be paying to lose zoom and FPS , and the 50D / 40D has pretty good noise performance and IQ from what I read . If you have a 5D already , I can't really give any advice since I've never used it . If you have a 3 / 4 / 50D and REALLY want to go to FF , think carefully about what kind of shooting you do , then wait until Dec and see if the 3D / 7D comes out . I blew my money early , I didn't know about that rumor . Other cameras I considered were a 1DMkII , but the screen is small , its huge , heavy and I would feel like even more of a poser with it , plus I use the screen and crop tool a lot more than max FPS . I also checked out the 5d original , but again , screen too small , DIGIC II , no sensor clean , no lens micro adjust . . . If you are just getting into dSLR , get a 40D ( same as a 50D basically ) , or heck , a 30D ( I love mine ) and get some nice glass . Unless you are rich , then get this . Or if you have small hands , then get the Tl1 / XTi . Rumor has it there is something coming to fill the gap for anyone looking to go up from the 50D , but not wanting a 5D or the pricier 1DMkIII or its s verison . It would be ~ 15mp , ~ 7fps , and ~ the same image quality , and likely FF or 1.3 crop , with a new , better point AF . I think this is possible , but there are reasons for and against this ( ie somewhere for the 50D sports shooter to upgrade to without going to 1D / everyone wants this vs Why would a sports / BIF shooter want to lose the 1.6 crop for comparable IQ ? Esp since Canon is due to upgrade the aging xxD AF , which will be the 7D everyone wants without cannabilizng the 1DmkIII ) . I would maybe want that gap filler , mostly to ease the strain on my computer and keep that high FPS ( its a guy thing , need for speed ) . But computers improve too , and I am VERY happy with the 5dmkII , I may cast an envious eye when / if this 3d / 7d comes ( Dec ? ) but I won't be selling or thinking twice . IMO , a classic camera .
• 014 4  The 5D Mark II represents the future of digital SLR photography / videography . I was fortunate to purchase my kit with the EF 24 - 105 f / 4L at its actual list price of $3,499 through Amazon and sold by 6 Ave Electronics on December 29 , 2008 . That offer was only available for about 6 hours . Now that I have used the camera for 6 months , I would even now pay a significant premium over the list price to have it . In my opinion it is worth much more than the list price in terms of advancements in low-light , low-noise and quick exposure setting features . It also has markedly improved picture quality over all other Canon DSLRs with the exception of the 1Ds Mark III ( $7,000 street ) which it at least matches . This camera isn't perfect . The 5D Mark II does have a lower frame rate than some other very fine cameras at 3.9 frames per second . Nevertheless , this frame rate has been fine for my purposes , including wildlife and bird photography . I am able to catch hummingbirds in flight . Unless you are a professional sports or action photographer there is simply no need to consider the much more expensive 1 series camera bodies . I would have preferred more focus points than the 9 visible and 6 invisible points this camera provides , though in normal lighting conditions there has been no problem getting fast , accurate focus . In very low light where the shot requires an ISO of 3200 or 6400 and no flash , the camera does sometimes have trouble , especially with moving or flat , low-contrast subjects . But considering that we wouldn't even be able to get an essentially noise-free image with another camera at these settings it seems a small criticism . This camera also lacks an internal flash . Some people may feel this to be a loss , but with the extraordinary low-light capability of the 5D Mark II I haven't missed this feature at all . When I want to use a flash I can easily attach one , and that seems to be a rare event now . The ability to capture low light images without the exposure problems flash often causes is an enormous improvement for me . And when I need a flash I always have my 580 EX II available , though it does add some weight to this body . The high resolution of this camera will show up flaws in any attached lens . Thus , you are going to have to use high quality glass to get the most out of the body . Those who are not able or willing to make an investment in L quality lenses would probably be just as happy with a 50D or similar bodies from other manufacturers . On the other hand , this camera's ability to register most Canon lenses and eliminate problems like peripheral illumination has proven remarkable during my use . Notably , there are many other improvements over the original 5D , which was a wonderful camera that many people would still be very happy with . The Mark II's new display is outstanding ; while a few other cameras now offer the same 3 inch high resolution LCD , the new display allows the user to enlarge the image enough to get a very good idea of what the final image will look like in print . When using auto ISO settings the camera makes very good choices to capture the best image possible . In fact , the algorithms this camera's DIGIC 4 processor uses for all its settings seem superior to any of the others I have looked at . And if you don't like the choices the camera makes , it is completely customizable , including 3 user settings on the main control knob . Then too , you do have to read the manual and take time to learn the many controls and settings that are available . I am convinced that several of the negative reviews on this site are simply the result of not understanding the full capabilities of this camera . For example comments about the sharpness of photos fail to take into account that the camera comes with certain sharpness settings by default , but that these can be changed and images sharpened to an almost garish degree . Other comments about supposed failings of different portrait mode settings or white balance adjustments likewise seem not to recognize that nearly every setting on this camera can be modified to match the operator's desires . This is a highly advanced instrument which requires some study before taking it out into the field . One way to judge a camera body is by the people who choose to use it . The outstanding professional photographer and professor of photography , Pete Souza was named official Whitehouse photographer earlier this year ; his history-making first digital official Presidential portrait of President Obama was made using a 5D Mark II . Numerous photo journalists , wedding and event photographers and others who make their living with their equipment are using 5D Mark II bodies . I am also seeing this camera being used more and more by sports photographers , despite its 3.9 fps rate . I have said nothing about the video capability . This was not a reason for my purchase , but I have been impressed by the quality of the videos this camera produces . I did not at first recognize what a game changer high def video capability in an SLR would become . It is interesting that Canon has now issued a firmware upgrade to allow full manual exposure control during videography which in my experience works very well . You must , however , have a good quality computer with a fast processor and high end video card to be able to edit the high def output . Like any other camera , there are a few small things Canon could have done to make this an even more remarkable improvement over the original 5D . But taken as a whole , for my money this is far and away the best , most feature rich and useable DSLR available for professional and serious photographers .
• 015 4  If you are heavily invested in Canon and own lots of their lenses , then your decision will be whether to buy the Canon 5D 1 , or the new Canon 5D 2 . In this regard , I would say the 5D 2 is the way to go because of increased ISO sensitivity , higher resolution , etc etc . VIDEO ? PLEASE do not buy this camera because of the video because you will most assuredly be disappointed . I too was wowed by watching the various videos circulating on the web . . . but beware that the best quality video is that taken with fast prime lenses ( e.g . max aperture f 1.4 ) . The camera in indoor lighting often prefers to open the aperture wide allowing more light in . . . sounds great . . . problem is that its all manual focus . . so you have a paper thin depth of field . . which can create artistic effects , but for any real home video , you would spend all your time concentrating on focusing back and forth . If you are the type of person who is interested enough to spend a lot of time and effort to create short video clips ( e.g . commercials etc ) , then this is nice . . . but if you're thinking , great , I won't need my camcorder . . . you're going to have one sore focusing finger . Not only that , I used to think the rolling shutter artifact was just people whining . . beware that it is not a minor artifact that bothers videophiles , it is a very real strange video artifact that can sometimes be very distracting and it can be present not just in panning , but also on still video . Shutter is still loud as hell , same as the 5D 1 . AF is still very obsolete , like the 5D 1 . That said , it is a great camera with wonderful quality , excellent resolution , and if you are a Canon guy / gal , you want this . - - - - If you are NOT a Canon guy / gal , consider the alternative . The Nikon D700 . The advantage of the D700 is primarily in the greater more sophisticated 51 point 3d autofocus , which is essential for taking pics of moving objects well , such as kids . Even the most advanced camera in the world will be ridiculed if it can't focus well ( ahem , 1d mark iii initially ) . Problems with the D700 , choice of lenses is somewhat less than for Canon but obviously there are still plenty of lenses to choose from . . no video , that is minor since the video from the 5dii is not tremendously easy or useful . PROS 5D II : High megapixel for printing large posters Stunning HD Video when its good Wide choice of lenses CONS 5D II : HD video difficult to use due to manual focus , all other settings auto Loud shutter , hard to blend into background when shutter is that obnoxious AF horribly obsolete , same as old 5D , shame on you Canon PROS D700 : Advanced modern AF , same as on top models Quiet shutter Reviews show better build quality and better ergonomics ( I find both to be almost equal though ) CONS D700 : Lens choices slightly less Only 12 megapixel , only problematic for very large posters No video - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - In the end , I returned the 5D mark ii and bought a D700 because I take pictures of live moving subjects , and AF is crucial . I have been very pleased . Picture quality of both cameras is equal ( given that they are in focus ) . Before buying , please read other web reviews regarding 5DII ability to autofocus .
• 016 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF 24 - 105mm f / 4 L IS USM Lens ( Electronics ) The 5D instruction manual says that The HDMI Cable HTC - 100 ( sold separately ) is required to connect to the 5D to an HDMI monitor / TV . That cable goes for $69 . I bought the Mediabridge 5ft Mini-HDMI to HDMI Version 1.3b Category 2 for only $12 and it works fine . I think ( maybe someone can verify this ) that any 1.3b mini HDMI to HDMI cable will work just fine . By the way , the camera is awesome . I have had it for a few days now and I love it . It shoots beautiful pictures at 3200 ISO , so there's really no need for a flash . And it shoots usable ( but noisy ) photos at 25,600 ISO . That's the end of the review . Now a bit of advice on buying this camera : My advice ( for what it's worth ) is don't overpay just to have this camera a few weeks early . You're going to be using this thing for 5 years , so whether you get it in January or February doesn't make a big difference . I was lucky enough to buy it ( in kit form ) from Amazon directly and not from some unknown electronics store . Whatever you do , avoid J & R in New York . If you are thinking about buying the 5D from them please send me a note and I will explain what happened when I pre-ordered the camera from J & R ( I ultimately cancelled my order and I have resolved to never buy anything from them in future . )
• 017 4  The 5D instruction manual says that The HDMI Cable HTC - 100 ( sold separately ) is required to connect to the 5D to an HDMI monitor / TV . That cable goes for $69 . I bought the Mediabridge 5ft Mini-HDMI to HDMI Version 1.3b Category 2 for only $12 and it works fine . I think ( maybe someone can verify this ) that any 1.3b mini HDMI to HDMI cable will work just fine . By the way , the camera is awesome . I have had it for a few days now and I love it . It shoots beautiful pictures at 3200 ISO , so there's really no need for a flash . And it shoots usable ( but noisy ) photos at 25,600 ISO . That's the end of the review . Now a bit of advice on buying this camera : My advice ( for what it's worth ) is don't overpay just to have this camera a few weeks early . You're going to be using this thing for 5 years , so whether you get it in January or February doesn't make a big difference . I was lucky enough to buy it ( in kit form ) from Amazon directly and not from some unknown electronics store . Whatever you do , avoid J & R in New York . If you are thinking about buying the 5D from them please send me a note and I will explain what happened when I pre-ordered the camera from J & R ( I ultimately cancelled my order and I have resolved to never buy anything from them in future . )
• 018 4  The dreaded black dot phenomenon that I keep reading about does not seem to be happening to me . I have tried to duplicate it and have had , well , good luck . Duplicating the black dots in low light high ISO conditions with pinpoints of light would be bad luck . For those of you out there who have this , I am sorry . I have had many lemon products in my life . I think my karma for that has hopefully run out till my next life . So far the camera is performing as expected which is amazing . I have jumped from measly 20D to this and I am amazed at the leap . i am also very glad I waited . I almost bought a 5D months ago and all the props here has to go to my brother , who soundly instructed me to wait it out . And wait I did . I ordered the camera in November and got it only a few days before Christmas . Quite a present . Of course you need a few good lenses with this camera to capture it's full essence . My old EF-S lenses fro my 20 D are NOT compatible . Heed this warning people . Move to the Canon L series lenses . Hopefully they will last a lifetime . I am not sure when , if ever I will need another SLR . 21 megapixels is quite a lot . I am sure at some point there will be 500 , 800 , 1000 , even several thousand megapixels . lets just hope I can use my eyes as lenses then and plug the memory card to my head to download the images . For now I am set with this . The screen is a vast improvement over the 20D which was almost a measly after thought . I have bigger screens on tiny point and shoot cameras . It also has live view which comes in handy . The digital video is flawless , although I have not figured out how to do autofocus with it yet . It may not be able to , which would seem odd to me . The video is a bonus for me but autofocus for it seems an obvious necessity . I did almost drop it while attaching it to a new tripod . God was smiling at me as I did catch it . Be careful ! It is like a small fortune for this thing . One final note . . . Do not buy the camera for this price . It sells for around $3500.00 with the 28 - 105 l series lens . I am not sure how these jokers think they can sell for this much and I would love to hear from anyone who paid this much . Remember the body sells for about $2500.00 . Try B & H Photo .
• 021 4  Caviar or potato chips The Canon Mark ll 5D is EXCEPTIONAL , anyone who says the 21.1 MP is overkill is underestimating the ability of cropping wildlife photos to the smallest part taken at a far distance . I can still find sharpness in the smallest possible section of the focused part of a photo . It really is incredible ; the vivid monitor's sharpness tells the whole story without dumping the large files onto a laptop . The edge of a ruffled bird's feather , the sunlight on the corner of a leave is still noticeable and sharp with 21.1 MP . Because you can double check the sharpness prior to snapping the photo using the LCD , you are saving yourself lots of editing ( and space , the files are huge ) on the computer . This instantly makes you a better photographer and frees up more time taking pictures instead of editing them . Also , if you manage to take fewer photos but better ones , this can make the extra space for these larger 21.1 MP pics ( about 28mb ) on your computer's hard drive about a draw . I used for the first time a 100 - 400 IS lens and after 10 minutes of practice have taken better photos than ever before . The 180 Macro lens takes pictures like a microscope capturing the infinite details of nature hidden from the human eye . Adding the 21.1 MP factor makes your possibilities practically unlimited . If you do not use L series lenses or better , and do not have the budget for these lenses , wait and do not buy this . . . you will only be torturing yourself by not having them , they are a must have . It would be like driving a Ferrari on rims . Because the AF ( auto focus ) mode adjusts so many functions including the ISO , an amateur like me can enjoy taking photos while not being concerned about the settings I promised myself I would learn . I just can't put the camera down long enough to read up on it ! As promised this camera is excellent in very low light with the noise factor eliminated or greatly reduced . Amazing the way the 5D picks up light at night , just amazing . Once you take pictures at night with this camera , no other camera will do . Also , for anyone wanting to learn more about this camera , ( and really any other camera like it ) Youtube Canon Mark ll 5D and you will find about 20 knowledgeable videos of pros doing hands on demonstrations , comparing similar models , and offering priceless tips about functions you never knew the camera had . This , along with Amazon's testimonials proved invaluable in my decision to buy . If you would like to see the manual ahead of time visit Canons website [ . . . ] I was initially concerned that the camera may be a little complicated since I moved directly to this higher end camera after using the smaller Canon SD cameras and snapping pics with my friends Rebel 300d . The 5D is quite simple and once you use it , you will be hooked . I also recommend a Hyperdrive , a hand held device up to 160 GIG ( about twice as heavy as an iphone and a little thicker ) that you can quickly dump the photos from a memory card onto . This will save you money on buying multiple memory cards and lugging around a heavy laptop on weekend trips , after all you can use the freed up space and less weight in your backpack for more lenses . A 16 GIG memory card holds about 500 21 mega pixel pics and when you do HD video ( the camera automatically stops recording at 4 GIG or about 4 minutes ) you can empty the card for more use ( a fast 2 GIGS per minute ) onto the hyperdive . [ . . . ] Battery life is impressive and it seems you can do 300 pics on one charge with LCD and probably 2 or 3 times as much without it . I tried to talk myself into a lower cost camera with less mega pixels . I wanted to say I would get a regular HD video camera that had more performance features later . I relented and ponied up for the 5D and realized that for me personally it was worth the extra bucks . Very nice LCD screen and HD video in one unit . Hopefully this will delay my desire for a better camera and after seeing the impressive resale value of used L series lenses , surprisingly close to cost of new ( I bought all used Lenses on Craigslist that look new ) and the cameras , I felt the investment would offer future returns I could not pass up . I am very happy I did and am guilt free . Love It !
• 022 4  Like many 5D Classic owners , I was looking forward to the release of the 5D Mark II , which was finally announced September 2008 . There was a lot of hype , but also a lot of unjustified hate for it from the beginning . When the original 5D was released , it was the only DSLR under $4000 that was full frame . There are now three full-frame DSLRs under $3000 ( current generation ) : Canon 5D Mark II , Nikon D700 , Sony a900 . There are pros and cons for each system , which I will briefly go over . Canon 5D Mark II Pros : - Has 1080p / FullHD video recording - Google examples . They will prove the FullHD video is not a gimmick . - 21.1MP - Has the most selection of lenses ( both for consumer and pro grade ) - Very good high-ISO noise handling even with such a large resolution - nearly as good at 100% as the D700 / D3 , but with 75% more pixels - Lowest MSRP , which may translate to the lowest street price in a few months Cons : - Least amount of AF points - but they appear to be more than adequate for nearly any situation - Only shoots 3.9fps - the slowest of the three Nikon D700 Pros : - Cheapest street price as of 12 / 2008 - 51 AF points and fast AF - 5fps - Very good noise handling in large part because it has the lowest resolution - 8fps ( with battery grip ) - fastest continuous shooting Cons : - Only 12MP - However , 12MP is more than adequate for nearly everything , so I am only listing it as a con purely based on specs . But it is somewhat of a limitation if you want to make really big prints . - Smallest viewfinder Sony a900 Pros : - Highest resolution at 24MP - Image Stabilization built into the body - Zeiss lenses - 100% viewfinder - 5fps Cons : - Least amount of lens selection - Bad noise control by far compared to other two - by several stpos - Highest street price Basically it'd be hard to go wrong with any of the systems , and things are only looking up for consumers as technology gets better and better . This is an excellent camera , and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who is looking to upgrade or get into the hobby . You won't be disappointed . . . I still need to play around with my camera more before I can give a more in-depth review , but I am very impressed . Noise handling is really great , and even shots at ISO 12800 and 25600 are easily usable , especially at normal print sizes . The bigger , higher resolution LCD is a welcome improvement . Search Google for examples of the 5D Mark II's HD video capabilities . The results are amazing ! I look forward to the work of some talented videographers in the near future .
• 026 4  I became adicted to photography with my 40D and after a year or so I started to see it's limitations . So I made the leap and bought the 5Dm2 and have been in love ever since . There are many technical reviews here and I recommend reading them all . This camera is not for everyone . Who this is for ( in my humble opinion ) : - Those that primarily shoot in low light situations . - the benefits from full frame and the 5D's amazing ISO capabilities are amazing . I have pics at 3200 ISO with no noise . - Portrait photographers . - The picture quality is unbeatable ( unless you tack on an additional couple grand or more for the 1D ) - The 21.2 Mp gives you so much room to play with Those who this may not be the best option : - Sports photographers ! - I still use my 40D for those senarios where I want a lot of fps . and reach . While the picture will always be better with the 5Dm2 , 3.9fps is very slow in my opinion . Just something to consider . - The full frame vs crop factor is interesting and you will see it first hand when you put your lenses on this baby . My 70 - 200 just became a walk around lense and has forced me to beg my wife to buy the 100 - 400 and a 2x extender . My 17 - 40 just became an amazing wide angle . Maybe it's just me but it seems that all of my lenses are so much sharper than before . So , that is my humble opinion . This camera is all that it's cracked up to be and I haven't even talked about the video capabilities . Definitely worth the money .
• 027 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF 24 - 105mm f / 4 L IS USM Lens ( Electronics ) I will only write a short review about this camera because others have already written very extensive reviews about it . For an even more comprehensive one , I would refer you to the website DPReview . After thinking about this camera for 6 months , I finally convinced myself to buy it . I am not regretting the decision at all . This is an excellent camera for my needs and the picture quality and resolution from its 21 megapixel sensor is simply mind boggling . In my mind , the main advantage of all those megapixels is the ability to do an extensive crop without sacrificing the image quality . I owned a 30D and if I crop files from it just a little bit , the sharpness suffers . Let me now talk about the high ISO performance of the 5D Mark II . It is definitely amazing . Different people have different tolerances as far as image noise but for me it is excellent up to ISO 1600 . I went to an indoor place with Christmas lights display and shot ISO 3200 and I was still happy with the results . I did have to clean up half of the files with the Noise Ninja software . But guess what , the files clean up very easily with the noise reduction software . Images from my 30D did not clean up as easily . The only reason why I did not give this camera 5 stars is because of its autofocus ( AF ) system . Now , I mainly shoot portraits and nature . I don't do much sports . And for subjects that are father away , I mainly use the center AF which is extremely adequate . However , when I shoot portraits at closer distances and shallow apertures , I like using specific AF points ( to avoid blur ) . In these instances , I can't help but feel that there should be more focus points . How about using the camera for moving subjects ? I don't think it was designed to be a sports camera . It can take 4 frames per second which I don't think is very adequate . Although I've seen pictures from very talented photographers from DPReview take amazing pictures of birds in flight with this camera so it can be done . ( Google liquidstone pbase and you will be amazed . ) While I love this camera and will use it for many years , I advice you to also read about the alternatives . I will list them below . If you are a Canon user and have Canon lenses , another alternative is the 7D . The 7D is not a full frame camera but an APS-C ( cropped sensor ) camera . The 7D is superior to the 5D in terms of its autofocus system ( faster frame rate , more sensitive AF points , and more AF points ) and features ( better LCD , bigger viewfinder , electronic grid , customizable buttons ) but inferior to the 5D in terms of image quality and ISO performance . If you are starting from scratch or if you are willing to switch , you also should consider the Nikon D700 . As far as image quality and high ISO performance , I think both cameras are at par . Canon is superior in terms of having a higher resolution ( 21 vs 12 megapixels ) and 1080p video . But Nikon is superior in terms of build quality , weather sealing , and autofocus system . The D700 ' s autofocus system is really more advanced than the 5D2 ' s . It has 51 AF points ( 15 of which are the more sensitive cross-type kind ) and a frame rate of 5 FPS without the battery grip and 8 FPS with the grip . So which should you buy , the D700 or the 5D Mark II ? If you will use the camera mainly for sports , then you should definitely go for the D700 . Otherwise , it's a matter of preference . If you prefer a higher resolution camera with 1080p video , go for the 5D Mark II . If you prefer a more robust camera with excellent weather sealing and a pro-autofocus , then go for the D700 .
• 028 4  I will only write a short review about this camera because others have already written very extensive reviews about it . For an even more comprehensive one , I would refer you to the website DPReview . After thinking about this camera for 6 months , I finally convinced myself to buy it . I am not regretting the decision at all . This is an excellent camera for my needs and the picture quality and resolution from its 21 megapixel sensor is simply mind boggling . In my mind , the main advantage of all those megapixels is the ability to do an extensive crop without sacrificing the image quality . I owned a 30D and if I crop files from it just a little bit , the sharpness suffers . Let me now talk about the high ISO performance of the 5D Mark II . It is definitely amazing . Different people have different tolerances as far as image noise but for me it is excellent up to ISO 1600 . I went to an indoor place with Christmas lights display and shot ISO 3200 and I was still happy with the results . I did have to clean up half of the files with the Noise Ninja software . But guess what , the files clean up very easily with the noise reduction software . Images from my 30D did not clean up as easily . The only reason why I did not give this camera 5 stars is because of its autofocus ( AF ) system . Now , I mainly shoot portraits and nature . I don't do much sports . And for subjects that are father away , I mainly use the center AF which is extremely adequate . However , when I shoot portraits at closer distances and shallow apertures , I like using specific AF points ( to avoid blur ) . In these instances , I can't help but feel that there should be more focus points . How about using the camera for moving subjects ? I don't think it was designed to be a sports camera . It can take 4 frames per second which I don't think is very adequate . Although I've seen pictures from very talented photographers from DPReview take amazing pictures of birds in flight with this camera so it can be done . ( Google liquidstone pbase and you will be amazed . ) While I love this camera and will use it for many years , I advice you to also read about the alternatives . I will list them below . If you are a Canon user and have Canon lenses , another alternative is the 7D . The 7D is not a full frame camera but an APS-C ( cropped sensor ) camera . The 7D is superior to the 5D in terms of its autofocus system ( faster frame rate , more sensitive AF points , and more AF points ) and features ( better LCD , bigger viewfinder , electronic grid , customizable buttons ) but inferior to the 5D in terms of image quality and ISO performance . If you are starting from scratch or if you are willing to switch , you also should consider the Nikon D700 . As far as image quality and high ISO performance , I think both cameras are at par . Canon is superior in terms of having a higher resolution ( 21 vs 12 megapixels ) and 1080p video . But Nikon is superior in terms of build quality , weather sealing , and autofocus system . The D700 ' s autofocus system is really more advanced than the 5D2 ' s . It has 51 AF points ( 15 of which are the more sensitive cross-type kind ) and a frame rate of 5 FPS without the battery grip and 8 FPS with the grip . So which should you buy , the D700 or the 5D Mark II ? If you will use the camera mainly for sports , then you should definitely go for the D700 . Otherwise , it's a matter of preference . If you prefer a higher resolution camera with 1080p video , go for the 5D Mark II . If you prefer a more robust camera with excellent weather sealing and a pro-autofocus , then go for the D700 .
• 036 4  Firstly let me say there is absolutely no point in buying this camera together with a non L-series zoom - you will be wasting you money . This camera is far better than any non L-series zoom with the exception of the DO series . Non L primes are OK . There are a lot of comparisons between 5DII and D700 / D3 going around . DXO publishes some excellent tech data on sensor comparisons . What these show is that in the various test the Canon is 0.5 - 0.3 stops worse than the Nikon at high ISO . At low ISO ( below 400 ) the Canon is maybe 1.3 stops poorer than the Nikon . Although high ISO dynamic range between the two is nearly line ball ! There are 2 things to say now . The low ISO figures are irrelevant because the noise cannot be seen at low ISO on any modern DSLR ! The high ISO differences are so small that they nearly make no difference . In fact if you down convert the Canon's 21Mpx images to the Nikon's 12 Mpx you gain 0.3 of a stop on most tests . Voila ! They are then identical ! These are two very good cameras . The Nikon has higher fps . The Canon has higher resolution . And the Canon has 1080p movies ! You choose . Oh ! You should disregard the DXO final summary score for the Nikon D3X . It is complete nonsense . The individual DXO data graphs on dynamic range , S / N etc all show the D3x is very similar to the 5DII . The final summary score must presumably be an error . But of course the D3x is ~ $7000 and doesn't go to as high ISO as the 5DII or the D700 . The D3 is optically very similar to the D700 but with better weather proofing etc . and a higher weight and price tag . However , the D3 does NOT have sensor cleaning ! I have always regarding sensor cleaning as a must have in DSLRs . Forgot to say : the latest firmware update from Canon has fixed the black dots and the moire ( slight ) problems . These problems were hard to see ( narrow parameter sets ) but should not have been present . * 2 months later : still all good . No nasties discovered late in the day . Lots of later reviews confirm what I said . Slightly poorer low noise at higher ISOs but the difference is going to be hard for the human eye to see in prints - even at the largest sizes . Also the 5DII has higher resolution than the D700 . The 5DII has very similar sensor performance to the Nikon D3X - line ball - and v similar resolution . The D3X is more rugged , bigger and heavier but the 5DII is 1 / 3 the price . You choose .
• 043 4  I'm an amateur - and prior to this used a Rebel XTi for two years . I decided to upgrade to a full-frame sensor camera and got this because of all its good reviews . I'd read that you need good glass for this camera . While I don't have L lenses ( yet ) , I do have very good primes - 85mm f1.8 , 35mm f2.0 , 20mm f2.8 , and 50mm f1.4 . What a joy to use this camera with those lenses - up until now they have been crippled on a cropped-sensor camera . The 50mm lens is a very useful lens now ! The image quality - even for high ISO - is amazing . I use Noiseware Pro but it's hardly necessary for ISO 800 with this camera . It shoots up to ISO 6400 ( and will go higher but is very noisy beyond that ) . The LCD on the back is terrific . The camera feels solid , easy to hold , but isn't heavy . You will need to update your Camera Raw plugin for Elements 6 or 7 or full Photoshop if you don't want to use Canon's Raw converter . I have not tried the HD video yet but already I love this camera . If you have not had a full-frame digital sensor , it is like starting photography all over again - that's how good the image quality is with this camera and the way it opens up your lenses . If you have good EF lenses , this camera will let them do their job . * added 10 - 4 - 2009 * The video is good - sharp and high quality - although I have concentrated on stills . I bought a directional mike for it and it works fine mounted in the hot-shoe . Some nice features - Although I tend to use spot focus , in live-view mode , you can zoom in to focus manually on any spot at 5x or 10x resolution if you want which helps with some tricky situations . Also when you press the depth-of-field preview button , it will show it with the exposure compensated so it is just as bright ( there is an option to make it do that ) . These two features are really useful . Of course there is a face-detection setting for focusing if you want that . There is a 2 - second delay setting ( as well as the usual 10 - second one ) which is nice when you don't want to bring a shutter release for tripod shots . The timed releases automatically will take 3 shots if you are bracketing . The image quality from high ISO is amazing . The LCD monitor is worth raving about and usually someone will let out a nice ! when they see it . It even compensates in bright outdoors light . The quick selection tool for easily accessing and setting most of the basic controls is very easy to use . I'm sure pros will want to rely on the proper , individual buttons but the quick selection tool is very nice .
• 046 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF 24 - 105mm f / 4 L IS USM Lens ( Electronics ) I've been shooting with this camera and kit lens two weeks . Apart from a couple gripes ( easily correctable by Canon ) , I have nothing but praise for the Canon 5D Mark II . Pros : 1 . Considering the dense pixel packing on the sensor , the camera sports amazing low-light performance . 2 . The kit lens is great with a constant F / 4 at all focal lengths and only minor vignetting ( correctable with software ) . 3 . Image quality picked up by the full-frame sensor exceeded my expectations . 4 . Gorgeous 1080p video capture . 5 . Controls and menu system are easy to navigate . Cons : 1 . Image sharpness with the 24 - 105 kit lens isn't as great as I expect from an L lens . This is probably a minor calibration issue , but Canon should deliver properly calibrated lenses from the start . 2 . The instruction manual is not very helpful for people without prior Canon experience . 3 . The weather sealing on the body does not seem convincing . Considerations : 1 . At 3.9 shots / sec , it's little bit too slow to be used regularly for sports or action photography . The camera is best for portraits or landscapes . 2 . The built in mic picks up any little noise from the lens or camera interactions - - you will need to buy an external mic immediately if you want to capture any audio with your video . 3 . If you shoot in RAW ( as you should if you spent $3000 + on this camera ) , be ready to invest in computing storage and processor / memory upgrades . The large files are demanding .
• 047 4  I've been shooting with this camera and kit lens two weeks . Apart from a couple gripes ( easily correctable by Canon ) , I have nothing but praise for the Canon 5D Mark II . Pros : 1 . Considering the dense pixel packing on the sensor , the camera sports amazing low-light performance . 2 . The kit lens is great with a constant F / 4 at all focal lengths and only minor vignetting ( correctable with software ) . 3 . Image quality picked up by the full-frame sensor exceeded my expectations . 4 . Gorgeous 1080p video capture . 5 . Controls and menu system are easy to navigate . Cons : 1 . Image sharpness with the 24 - 105 kit lens isn't as great as I expect from an L lens . This is probably a minor calibration issue , but Canon should deliver properly calibrated lenses from the start . 2 . The instruction manual is not very helpful for people without prior Canon experience . 3 . The weather sealing on the body does not seem convincing . Considerations : 1 . At 3.9 shots / sec , it's little bit too slow to be used regularly for sports or action photography . The camera is best for portraits or landscapes . 2 . The built in mic picks up any little noise from the lens or camera interactions - - you will need to buy an external mic immediately if you want to capture any audio with your video . 3 . If you shoot in RAW ( as you should if you spent $3000 + on this camera ) , be ready to invest in computing storage and processor / memory upgrades . The large files are demanding .
• 054 4  When I pre-ordered this camera at a quality camera store , I was number 150 + on the waiting list and was told this was the most anticipated camera to ever come out thus far . I was able to get one from B & H quicker though and paid the normal price of $2700 . The camera is very well built with a sturdy frame , large 3 review screen , full frame sensor ( which means it doesn't have the built-in 1.6 magnification as do most DSLRs . This camera offers a huge upgrade from the 5D in the sharpness of images , ISO range , etc . I'm very impressed with the sharpness and color of the images . I would definitely recommend it at the normal price .
• 063 4  I've had the original 5d for about two years . Just bought the new 5d mark II and have used it for a couple of months now . Wonderful camera , especially for narrow depth of field portraiture or low light work . I've shot at ISO 1600 and the photos look great . I've also played around with the new video capture . The video was excellent , but it really doesn't compare to a dedicated video camera . The menu's have changed a bit , and the battery is not compatible with the original 5d , so that's a bummer ; had to buy new spares . Highly recommended .
• 064 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF 24 - 105mm f / 4 L IS USM Lens ( Electronics ) I took a break from system-cameras for a few years . My arsenal of lenses became temporary museum pieces while I wandered around with a point-and-shoot digital . While it gave great images , one thing it lacked was the flexibility of interchangeable lenses . I got an urge to start using my lenses again so went back to film so I could use them on my film cameras . And that's when I remembered why I went to digital in the first place . The long story short is that film takes lots of time , costs lots of money , and these days , is not well supported if you want high-end processing , printing , etc . So there I sat , staring at over 20 name-brand , high end lenses and no camera to use them on . In todays dollars that's a significant investment . Enter the Canon EOS 5D Mark II . There are a number of good mount-adapters that enable the use of vintage and not-so-vintage lenses on the camera . After a little research I was convinced it would work for me . So I ordered the camera ( with kit lens ) , battery grip , extra battery , memory cards and the lens mount adapter . All the packages arrived on the same day . It was like the best birthday I ever had . Within minutes I was shooting images with the kit lens ( 24 ~ 105 ) , and testing the camera with every last one of my vintage lenses and the lens mount adapter . A couple wide-angle lenses with deep rear elements would not work , but a long list of lenses worked perfectly and very easily . With the lens mount adapter I purchased , I even get focus-assist ! I love the battery grip - it holds two batteries AND comes with a clip so you can use AA batteries in a pinch . The kit lens is wonderful . It gives a great range of focal lengths - from a super-wide 24mm to a very useful short telephoto 105mm , with a continuous run in between . The autofocus is almost silent - so much so that a Nikon user I handed it to said the auto focus isn't working . Yes , it was . . . Gadgets are great and photographers love to talk about them . But it's the pictures that really matter , right ? And that's where this camera rules . I have put this camera to every test I can come up with - slow shutter speeds hand-held ( image stabilization really helps ) ; low light ( the ISO range is so wide I can almost say that light isn't an issue anymore ) ; colors ( so natural and clean that the images will stun anyone who sees them ) ; and for me , the ability to attach vintage lenses and get auto exposure and assisted focus - a huge money saver for people with high-end vintage lenses . The full-frame image sensor means that all those 35mm lenses you have will still behave the way they did on your 35mm SLR . Check the customer images for a couple examples of what can be done . . .
• 065 4  I took a break from system-cameras for a few years . My arsenal of lenses became temporary museum pieces while I wandered around with a point-and-shoot digital . While it gave great images , one thing it lacked was the flexibility of interchangeable lenses . I got an urge to start using my lenses again so went back to film so I could use them on my film cameras . And that's when I remembered why I went to digital in the first place . The long story short is that film takes lots of time , costs lots of money , and these days , is not well supported if you want high-end processing , printing , etc . So there I sat , staring at over 20 name-brand , high end lenses and no camera to use them on . In todays dollars that's a significant investment . Enter the Canon EOS 5D Mark II . There are a number of good mount-adapters that enable the use of vintage and not-so-vintage lenses on the camera . After a little research I was convinced it would work for me . So I ordered the camera ( with kit lens ) , battery grip , extra battery , memory cards and the lens mount adapter . All the packages arrived on the same day . It was like the best birthday I ever had . Within minutes I was shooting images with the kit lens ( 24 ~ 105 ) , and testing the camera with every last one of my vintage lenses and the lens mount adapter . A couple wide-angle lenses with deep rear elements would not work , but a long list of lenses worked perfectly and very easily . With the lens mount adapter I purchased , I even get focus-assist ! I love the battery grip - it holds two batteries AND comes with a clip so you can use AA batteries in a pinch . The kit lens is wonderful . It gives a great range of focal lengths - from a super-wide 24mm to a very useful short telephoto 105mm , with a continuous run in between . The autofocus is almost silent - so much so that a Nikon user I handed it to said the auto focus isn't working . Yes , it was . . . Gadgets are great and photographers love to talk about them . But it's the pictures that really matter , right ? And that's where this camera rules . I have put this camera to every test I can come up with - slow shutter speeds hand-held ( image stabilization really helps ) ; low light ( the ISO range is so wide I can almost say that light isn't an issue anymore ) ; colors ( so natural and clean that the images will stun anyone who sees them ) ; and for me , the ability to attach vintage lenses and get auto exposure and assisted focus - a huge money saver for people with high-end vintage lenses . The full-frame image sensor means that all those 35mm lenses you have will still behave the way they did on your 35mm SLR . Check the customer images for a couple examples of what can be done . . .
• 074 4  Pros : Fantastic image quality , with excellent S / N ratio , with very usable iso 6400 . Excellent resolution , esp when used with high grade optics Excellent menu system Very useful implementation of Auto ISO Video Function is amazing . Cons : Additional Battery is very expensive . Canon should have included some video editing software . I have found the best over all simple solution to be power director on PC . I wish all 9 focus points where cross type with extra sensitivity bellow 2.8
• 076 4  When I first heard a 21 megapixel camera would be coming out at a reasonable price ( ie . not a ridiculous price like A $12,000.00 ) I couldn't wait to buy it . My previous camera was the EOS 1V film camera which had under-exposure problems and suddenly died a year after the warranty expired . I've had the EOS 5DII for three months now and recently took about 300 garden and landscape photos on a trip to Japan using a 28 - 70mm zoom . I had to work quickly because a lot of the sites we visited were very crowded . The 21 megapixels alone make this camera worth it - being able to zoom in and in and in and still use the full resolution with only a bit of sharpening is really something to behold . However , like my 1V , this camera isn't perfect and I had to fight it to get my shots exposed correctly and in focus . Other people have said that their 5DII's exposures are perfect every time but mine gave inconsistent exposure on nearly every shot I took and it seemed to favour over-exposure rather than under . If I had used a tripod I could have tried the live view mode with exposure simulation function before shooting - but for hand-held work next time I'll have to autobracket . None of the exposure modes ( Evaluative , Partial , Spot , or Center-weighted metering ) seemed to help in my quest to get correct exposure in one shot . Every photo had to be taken again at least three to four times for me to get the exposure right . I nearly always had to meter from the brightest part of the scene because of the light meter's tendency to over-expose but with some scenes the bright parts were too bright and I ended up under-exposed . The only downside to using 21 megapixels is that I became aware of auto-focus problems at full resolution . All of my lenses were either forward or back-focusing ( at least when viewed at full resolution ) . Although you can fix this problem with the AF Microadjustment function for dedicated lenses like the 50mm f1.4 , it will not work consistently across the entire range of a zoom lens ( ie . you might be able to get it perfect for wide-angle shots but it will be out of focus on mid to telephoto shots ) . If you like pixel-peeping , want super-sharp focus and have the time , I would recommend that you use this camera with a tripod , set the screen to live view mode and focus manually at full resolution because auto-focus is just not accurate at high resolution . Another problem revealed by 21 megapixels is camera shake . In my case I found this particulary when using auto-ISO with aperture priority . Many of my hand-held shots with the 28 - 70mm zoom in low light were blurry at full resolution because of the minimal shutter speeds chosen by auto-ISO . The auto-ISO consistently chooses a shutter speed that is a little too slow for the focal length used in my opinion ( ie . for my 28 - 70 f2.8 zoom , the auto-ISO set the shutter speed to 1 / 70 of a second when the lens was zoomed to 70mm ) . I still got camera shake and blurred photos even though theory says this shouldn't happen if the shutter speed matches the focal length of the lens . I think Canon need to update the auto-ISO on their larger megapixel cameras so that it chooses a slightly faster shutter speed . I know a lot of landscape photographers will be very critical of auto-ISO but while travelling I thought this would be a good feature to use to help save time as we often had to move quickly , taking pictures indoors and out under varying lighting conditions and this feature would have been useful - I imagine wedding photographers would be interested too . I think that digital cameras are undergoing a rapid evolution at the moment - on the one hand we have point-and-shoot models and the new bridge cameras which meter and auto-focus directly from the sensor and on the other we have the older SLR designs which use a mirror to reflect the image to separate auto-focus and exposure chips - a design which worked well back in the days of the first auto-focussing film cameras but which now seems out of date and ill-prepared to handle the new high resolutions on offer . Which is why Canon and others have added live view as compensation but it still has a way to go I think . Anyway , I still think I will have no trouble getting my money's worth out of this camera in the years to come . * * As an update to this review - I took my 5DII to my local Canon service center where they sent if off to check the light meter . It came back recalibrated and is now exposing correctly and I'm very happy with it .
• 079 4  Bought this camera earlier this year . The only problem I see with it is it sometimes misses the mark on auto-focus . Very slow continuous shooting ( only 3.9 fps ) The Nikon D700 out-performs the Canon in fast focus situations . It would be a better choice for sporting events and racing . Other than that , the camera is a winner . Just keep your subjects still . You just can't beat the resolution , although jpg's are a little soft . One other thing , why would you pay Amazon's outrageous price when you can get it for $600 less at Best Buy ( $2,700.00 ) ? Even with taxes you lose buying it here ? Even earlier this year I paid only $3,000 at BB .
• 080 4  The Canon 5D Mark II is absolutely amazing ! It is worth every penny and I am very pleased . I purchased this camera primarily for the Hi-Def video feature . I do professional video work and I can't say anything negative about this camera . This camera shoots video strait to an uncompressed Quicktime . mov file . It is not AVCHD , there is no conversion needed . These video files can be placed directly on to a Final Cut timeline without any conversion or rendering . ( This saves soooo much time . i.e . no log and capture and no log and transfer and no conversion in any way ! ! ) Picture quality is amazing . I only wish I could merge the features of the Canon XH-A1 video camera with the video quality and file format of the 5D ! ! ! ! I have never really been interested in still pictures . . . until now . I took a photo of some friends from 20 feet away , when viewed in photoshop with the zoom feature set to actual pixels the detail was as if I had used a macro lens from 2 feet away ( This is due to the 21 mega pixels ) . Everyone who sees the stills is amazed and I have already made money as a professional photographer ! ! ( That's a first ! ) Ok . . . the only thing about this camera I would change is I would give it XLR inputs and a manual gain control feature and a meter to visually monitor audio levels . I imagine that if Canon did this they would lose business because no one would need to buy a pro video camera , they could just buy this ! Otherwise , the audio pick up is decent . . . it's good enough to sync with the audio from other cameras , and it worked just fine with a shotgun mic and a wireless lapel mic .
• 086 4  The 5D's great strengths seem to be in it's handling of low light and it's wider frame if doing landscapes . I've been photographing people so the wider frame wasn't as important as handling darker situations without a flash . When people state the fps are lower they really are and the camera is extremely slower taking consecutive images than my 50D . The 50D is the machine gun of cameras and I am happily taken with it as well . The fact many not so great photographers in my area brag they have the 5D hasn't seem to improved their images but it is a testimony to how impressive a reputation the camer has gotten . I'm finding the wonders of 21MP a great deal harder to throw around than my other image even on a maxed out quad core system . Of course you can reduce this with the settings but it's hard to down grade such amazing amount of detail . Keep up the great work Canon . . . and fire that guy who makes the ' icon ( ) ' symbols for metering . : ) ~ T
• 087 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF 24 - 105mm f / 4 L IS USM Lens ( Electronics ) I just received my 5D Mk2 less than two weeks ago . I have ran it through probably 2000 actuations and just today noticed a very obvious dead pixel . I have not exposed it to any harsh conditions , although I was hoping to be able to . I am sending it back for an exchange but I am very disappointed . I will re-review when I receive the replacement . I've been putting this off and finally jumped to get this camera and just don't know how to feel . I feel at bit cheated at this point , but we'll see .
• 089 4  I have used and own Nikon and Canon DSLR cameras for the last 5 years , from Nikon D40 , Nikon D70 , Canon 40D , Canon 50D and finally bought myself a full frame camera from Canon 5D Mark II . I can't be happier . . . . I love how I could do micro adjustments on my lenses , and love it that it captures the HD videos . It has been my professional work camera for the last 6 months and I like the results . It really stands up with the 24 - 105 lens and 80 f1.5 for portrait . I have the 70 - 200 F4 L IS with it , but I like it better with 24 - 105 and 80 1.5 This camera has been a blessing . I just wished Canon has the on / off switches near the click button . . . just like Nikon . Other than that , I love this camera !
• 097 4  i am constantly amazed by the pictures i get from this camera . i love the extra width i get from full frame as well as the extra shallow depth of field . i'm a wedding / portrait photographer and this camera is beyond amazing for what i do . if you shoot high ISO , you can't beat this camera at the moment . i shoot ISO 6400 like it's ISO 1600 , it is that clean . and ISO 3200 is the new ISO 800 for me , i don't even hesitate . i will not go above ISO 6400 though as you'll start to see banding . the lcd has me spoiled , so much so that i'm selling my 40d so that i can either get a 50d or the new 7d . on the 40d all of the pictures just look blah . . . and blurry . they still turn out good on the computer , but it can be very frustrating at the time . on the 5d II , you can tell right away if you've misfocused or if your exposure is off . video quality is amazing though i don't really use it for that . autofocus is better than people like to give it credit for . i shoot mainly dimly lit receptions and it locks perfect whenever i need it to . i'm talking ISO 6400 f / 1.6 1 / 30s dim . also i have no problem using outer focus points as they work great as well . manual focus is a cinch with the 5d II . if you put the camera in live view , move the small box over what you want to focus on , then push the zoom button twice to see that box at pixel level . focus the lens and shoot away . lenses used are 35mm f / 1.4L , 85mm f / 1.8 , 16 - 35mm f / 2.8L I , and 70 - 200mm f / 2.8L IS . if you need high ISO and want full frame , this is the camera for you . if you don't need either , save some money and get the 50d or 7d . . . or even a used 40d .
• 098 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF 24 - 105mm f / 4 L IS USM Lens ( Electronics ) I used to own Nikon FM10 35mm film SLR , I enjoyed shooting long exposure shots at night in city areas , when I switched to DSLR , the first one was Canon EOS Rebel XT , I tried the same night long exposure and the photos always have lot of grainy red dots , no matter how much the ISO is low and different size aperture . Then I bought Canon 40D , and I got the same problem , I even tried Nikon D90 , the red dots were reduced , but still very noticeable . The exposure time was always less than 30 seconds , but the shooting was always in the city night , were there are always light pollution . Finally I got the 5D Mark II , and I did few testing and the red dots were very minimal , my friend gave me a tip , to disable the long exposure comp in the camera , which is the opposite of what someone should do , but that did the trick , the shots looked much better and cleaner . This is truly an amazing sensor , that can match the 35mm film quality .
• 112 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF 24 - 105mm f / 4 L IS USM Lens ( Electronics ) I will try and add to the review pool by pointing out the other things that have not been expressed . I will use a comparison : Nikon . I bought the Canon Eos 5D MkII because I got tired of waiting for Nikon to come out with a full-frame body that has at least 20 megapixels , and is reasonably-priced . All that Nikon has at this level are full-frame bodies with only 12 megapixels . Come on ! Film's equivalent = 20 to 36 megapixels , not half , which is 12 . I don't like being nickel-and-dimed in the megapixel department year after year . The difference between a Canon vs . the comparable Nikon body is that the Nikon's brain can adjust the contrast automatically . The Canon body will record what it sees , and you tweak it as a RAW file . That's why a D90 ' s colors looks so much more vivid right out of the camera . Nikon's jpeg images are stunning , while Canon's jpegs are a little drab by comparison . And the Canon . . . well , again , the images have to be worked up in a digital darkroom to look just as vivid , or low-key or whatever you want to express . Did you know that you can use Nikon , Pentax K-mount , M39 and M42 - mount lenses on your Canon ? Yes . Search for them here at Amazon.com , or the web ! The 5D Mark II shutter is quieter than most Nikon dslr's . Is the Canon 5D MkII equal to the Nikon D3X ? Not even close . The 24.5 megapixel D3X is years ahead of its time . The 5D MkII cannot hold a candle to the D3X in terms of overall image quality . Besides , who's got $7000 + laying around ?
• 114 4  This is an amazing camera . STOP GIVING IT ONE STAR for just the vendor . My only gripe is with the audio while shooting video . It's a very good mic , and picks up sound clearly , which is its downfall . I had to purchase an external wireless mic so it wouldn't pick up the sound of me changing the focus or zoom level . Oh well , still worth it . You can get an excellent wireless mic unit from BH Photo for about $150 . Oh , and I wish they'd made it more than 3.9 FPS , if even at a lower resolution . If it were higher , it'd be one less reason to need a 1D .
• 119 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF 24 - 105mm f / 4 L IS USM Lens ( Electronics ) So I finally received the camera but it came without the lens . The box it came packaged in clearly stated it was Body Only but the sticker with the UPC code was for Body + Kit . I was charged for the Body + Kit . . . I'm not sure whose fault it is ( Amazon or Canon ) but that's what it is . As for the camera , I love it and the black spots reported by some users are there ( christmas lights ) but at extreme magnification only . Beside for my use , I don't make a living taking pictures of Christmas lights ( or city lights ) . I'm also pretty confident that Canon will release a firmware fix soon .
• 121 4  Super fun new camera ! I have been using the Canon 5D Mark II for the past 2 weeks since using a Nikon D200 every day for the past few years . I realize that the 5D is in a different class from the D200 but surprisingly the D200 compares pretty favorably . Here are some pros and cons , some in comparisons to the D200 and others not : Cons : - 5D Mk 2 feels a lot slower than the D200 , I did not think that the lower frame rate would be so noticeable . - I need new lenses . Pros : - The 5D is amazing and has such great low noise at high ISOs that I can get printable shots in near darkness ! - I need new lenses . . . This is the main reason I switched to Canon ; more fast prime lenses available . - video ! another compelling reason to switch . . . Other than these , comparable class Nikons and Canons are essentially the same and both produce amazing quality files .
• 129 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF 24 - 105mm f / 4 L IS USM Lens ( Electronics ) ordered by Amazon direct - perfect ! All in time . Camera is a blast , exceeds my expectations !
• 141 4  I love the camera , I really hurt paying so much money for a camera but it's all worth it ! I used to have a Canon XTI that I really like but this item is top of the line . Great product , solid , remember is only good with EF lenses not EF-S . HD video is good but if you want to shoot video go buy a G video camera .
• 149 4  Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF 24 - 105mm f / 4 L IS USM Lens After a few months of trial and light use , I took the 5D Mark II I bought in December abroad with me on a critical project . The 5D Mark II failed completely on the first day of the project , under good conditions and normal use . Canon Tech Support confirmed that the blue screen of death on the LCD screen indicated the camera was completely nonfunctional , and informed me that my only alternative was to wait until I returned to the U.S . , and then ship the 5D Mark II to Canon for several weeks of repair . I informed Canon Tech Support that the total failure of a new 5D Mark II was not what I expected from that camera or from Canon . According to Tech Support , the failure of my 5D Mark II was the luck of the draw , everything fails , and while I travelled abroad in past years with functioning Canon DSLRs someone else's Canon failed on the first day of their trip . This is not comforting . Although I had a ( yes , Canon ) backup camera , it does not have the low-light capabilities which are the distinctive marketing points of the 5D Mark II , and which were needed in some settings where I could not bring flash or tripod . The unreliability of the 5D Mark II is extremely disappointing . It remains to be seen what Canon is able or willing to do to correct the problem .


• 032 4  For the record , some of the reviews posted on Amazon are not associated with the camera Canon 5D Mark II at all . The majority of them were about price gouging from third parties that are selling through Amazon . On the other hand , I did purchase the camera along with the 24 - 105mm lens through Amazon at the price of MSRP and the purchase was delivered on time . So , I believe people should step back and look at the whole picture first before posting reviews that are NOT associated with the products at all . Such action does not do justice to the product and waste lots of readers ' time . Now , let's get down to the main issue . I have been using the digital rebel for a few years and I was looking for all sorts of reasons to upgrade to a full frame body . The Canon 5D Mark II arrived at just the right time . I placed the order along with the battery grip and I can honestly tell you that I am both happy and also disappointed at the same time . Since I am only an amateur weekend photographer , my review is only from the novice user's perspective . If you are looking for a detail feedback specs and comparisons , I believe you will be better off if you read the feedbacks from the pros . Starting with what I like first . The resolution of 21.1 MP is a huge leap from what I had before . The first thing to notice is that the raw image files are much larger . Along with it is the conversion time ( from RAW to JPEG ) needed is also much longer . This is just a one time thing during upgrade and I am sure most users will get used to it . The camera body is solidly made and the size is just right . Since I go hiking a lot , I don't consider the size ( with battery grip ) is much to carry . The majority of my shots are landscape done in Aperture priority . The burst rate of 3.9 FPS is plenty for me and it is not likely that I will need the feature at all . What I notice the new camera helped me the most is that during the low light condition , I can switch to the auto IOS option and I have been happy with the results that I have been getting . In addition to the still photography , I do consider the HD video as an added bonus . I do take short clips of film from time to time just to make my hiking trips more enjoyable . Now , let's talk about my disappointments . The 5D Mark II that was delivered to me had a HOT SPOT on the sensor . First , I did not notice this issue at all as I was too excited to have this new toy with me . But after a couple nights of testing , I noticed that there is one spot which is always shown as bright Orange Red on my still images . This HOT SPOT is hard to be seen unless one is to view the picture in 100% mode and pan through all corners . One can easily ignore this issue if one is to have just one HOT SPOT and one only takes still images . However , the newly added feature of HD Video changed that completely . The same HOT SPOT is also shown on all the films that I took . It stayed at the same coordinate and it is there on every single frame of the film . That alone did not sit too well with me . So , I made a point and brought the Canon 5D Mark II body to the service center in person to have it fix . When I talked to the service rep , I was told it would take 7 - 10 business days . However , the entire service transaction took more than two weeks to complete . When I called for status of my unit , I was told the sensor had to be replaced and it has been on back order . So , it appears that this HOT SPOT issue is more common than usual . In any case , I finally got the unit back and did more testing . I am happy to report that I don't have the HOP SPOT issue anymore . So , as an advice , if one is to buy the camera , I think it would be wiser to buy it in the store and have a test run at first . Perhaps take a short film clip of a dark room and see if there are any static HOT SPOT ( s ) on all frames of the film . This would be a good way to filter the bad from the good . Also , I have been trying to play the HD movies on my PC and I must admit , the playback is rather jerky . I was told that it is the PC QuickTime player's doing . I did not see any issue from the playback through the camera at all . In addition , I've asked a friend to play the same movie file on a MAC and it was just fine as well . In this case , I think I can only blame the Apple QuickTime software . In conclusion , I do like this camera and the features that it offers . However , I can't really give a five star on this review as I believe Canon may have a quality issue that they need to address first . Before you buy , do some tests in the store and pick the right one to take home with . Enjoy . . .
• 002 4  This was my first full frame camera . Prior to it I had owned and operated a 40D , 30D and Rebel XTi . I am a wedding and sports photographer primarily , so I have been able to test the 5D Mark II out under both of these conditions . For basketball I used it with AI Servo , Center Point focus , but went into custom settings and enabled the AF assist dots . It worked like a dream , focusing faster and more accurately than my 40D ever had . While no , the FPS aren't ideal for sports , if you can lock on focus like this from the start , you can still achieve amazing sports photographs . Plus the fact that I was able to shoot at ISO 4,000 and not have noticeable noise was just incredible . The shots auto-white balanced correctly too which normally in the arena I shoot at is not what happens on my 40D . My first wedding all I could say all day was wow . I was getting available light photographs I never would have dreamed of before . The new screen also made it incredibly easy to determine if something was in focus or not . When I would switch between my 40D and 5D2 I found out just how spoiled that screen had made me , since the 40D screen looked terrible to me now when previously I thought that had a great screen . I sure was wrong ! 920,000 pixels is definitely the way to go on this LCD . I primarily shot with center point ( one shot ) for my focus and it nailed focus every time . I did a mix up of manual , aperture priority and some program ( Program mostly for the formals ) What else do I love about it ? The 98% view finder is awesome . I like being able to use UDMA cards in it . . . Video ! Although I'm not a video / motion person by nature , I prefer stills , I've been testing out the video quite a bit . At Christmas I took a few short clips of my nephew and was really happy with how they look . It's very neat to be able to take high definition video of a little kid and have that awesome affect of a wide aperture blurring out the background . The only downside is that the files are huge . My 1 minute clip was over 300MB , but that's what I get for shooting in 1080 ! The batteries this camera use really do hold a charge for a while . I used mine with the battery grip at the wedding , and the two batteries after going for over 500 shots ( maybe close to 600 shots that day ? ) still had about 72% charge each left on them . I could easily have shot 3 times that much and still have had left over charge on the batteries . Also the new battery info screen is really nifty since you can see what serial number battery has what charge , making it a lot easier to keep track of . So far I've used a 35 1.4 / L , 135 2 / L , 70 - 200 f2.8 / L , 50 1.4 , and 100 2.8 Macro on this camera body and all have performed wonderfully . I don't miss the pop up flash that my 40D has since I never used it anyway , I always throw my 580 EX II on top when I need flash . This camera really is a gem and I highly recommend it if it fits in your budget !
• 019 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics ) This camera was an upgrade from the original Canon EOS 5D 12.8 MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) which I loved . I never thought the image quality could be improved upon enough to warrant $2,500 to upgrade , but I was wrong . It was still painful to plop down this much money since I am only a serious amateur , but it turned out to be SO worth it . I'm not ready to completely give up my old 5D though and still use it as a 2nd camera body . First off , the image quality has to be seen to be believed when coupled with L quality lenses ( non-L lenses will show numerous flaws ) . Low light performance alone makes the upgrade worth it : Virtually noise-free up until ISO 800 ( barely noticeable ) , starting around ISO 1000 ( acceptable ) and really doesn't become bothersome until around ISO 4000 or so . If you use a good noise control program like Noise Ninja or others , you can get away with even higher ISO's . I coupled this camera with a Lexar Professional Series 16 GB 300x UDMA CompactFlash Memory Card CF16GB - 300 - 381 and the write speed is almost instant , even though the camera is moving 20 + MB of data with each shot . I would recommend a card reader though , because going directly from camera to computer can be slow . The new menu system is 100 times better than the old one , very easy to go from tab-to-tab rather than all the scrolling of the old menu system , and you can find your selection much faster . The true VGA LCD screen on the back is a VERY welcome change . Larger and brighter , you'll notice it self-adjust the brightness when you're outside too . Live-view is awesome ! I've been using it in my macro and studio work for razor sharpness and it's made my poor eyes much happier than all the squinting . I had a pirate eye-patch for doing that work with my old 5D . The dust-reducing facilites are another welcome change . I had to clean my sensor before every important shoot with the old model . I've had the 5D MK II for about 3 months now and have yet to clean the sensor on it . Dust will still adhere to the underside of the focusing screen , but easily blown off with your Giottos AA1900 Rocket Air Blaster Large ( Black ) . Finally the resolution . I've been able to take wildlife shots at some distance , and crop out the subject and still have a superior quality photo . It's really added a lot of flexibility for composition in post-production . I have successfully printed up to 24x36 with absolutely no distortion at all using Alien Skin's Blow-UP 2 Software . It's my belief you could easily do a perfect 11x14 or 12x18 straight out of the camera though . Some people love the Digital Photo Professional software that comes with it , but my personal preference is Photoshop . Note that if you're still using CS3 or before you will need to convert the CR2 ' s from the 5D MK II using Adobe's DNG converter ( free download from Adobe ) or upgrade to at least CS4 . I am currently using this camera with the optional Canon BG-E6 Battery Grip for Canon 5D Mark II Digital SLR and 2 batteries in the grip . Battery life with this combination is amazing . I can easily go weeks between charges , and an easy menu on the camera gives detail on battery life . The incremental battery life indicator on the top window is a lot more accurate than the old 5D . It's just my preference but I disagree with the reviewers who say there should be a pop-up flash on camera . This camera is pro level quality and as any serious amateur or pro will tell you , built-in flashes are useless . In combination with my Canon Speedlite 580EX II Flash for Canon EOS Digital SLR Cameras it's a winning combination for flawless flash photographs with no red-eye and no harsh shadows when bounced . If you're going to spend this much on a camera , a good speedlight is a must . The latest firmware version 2.0.4 fixes some bugs and improves movie performance so if your new model doesn't have that version , it's a free download from Canon . I do not have experience with movie mode yet , so I will update this review later on that . I'm still have a bit of sticker-shock , but after using this camera awhile , it seems more an investment . Once you see the quality , it should alleviate your pain .
• 020 4  This camera was an upgrade from the original Canon EOS 5D 12.8 MP Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) which I loved . I never thought the image quality could be improved upon enough to warrant $2,500 to upgrade , but I was wrong . It was still painful to plop down this much money since I am only a serious amateur , but it turned out to be SO worth it . I'm not ready to completely give up my old 5D though and still use it as a 2nd camera body . First off , the image quality has to be seen to be believed when coupled with L quality lenses ( non-L lenses will show numerous flaws ) . Low light performance alone makes the upgrade worth it : Virtually noise-free up until ISO 800 ( barely noticeable ) , starting around ISO 1000 ( acceptable ) and really doesn't become bothersome until around ISO 4000 or so . If you use a good noise control program like Noise Ninja or others , you can get away with even higher ISO's . I coupled this camera with a Lexar Professional Series 16 GB 300x UDMA CompactFlash Memory Card CF16GB - 300 - 381 and the write speed is almost instant , even though the camera is moving 20 + MB of data with each shot . I would recommend a card reader though , because going directly from camera to computer can be slow . The new menu system is 100 times better than the old one , very easy to go from tab-to-tab rather than all the scrolling of the old menu system , and you can find your selection much faster . The true VGA LCD screen on the back is a VERY welcome change . Larger and brighter , you'll notice it self-adjust the brightness when you're outside too . Live-view is awesome ! I've been using it in my macro and studio work for razor sharpness and it's made my poor eyes much happier than all the squinting . I had a pirate eye-patch for doing that work with my old 5D . The dust-reducing facilites are another welcome change . I had to clean my sensor before every important shoot with the old model . I've had the 5D MK II for about 3 months now and have yet to clean the sensor on it . Dust will still adhere to the underside of the focusing screen , but easily blown off with your Giottos AA1900 Rocket Air Blaster Large ( Black ) . Finally the resolution . I've been able to take wildlife shots at some distance , and crop out the subject and still have a superior quality photo . It's really added a lot of flexibility for composition in post-production . I have successfully printed up to 24x36 with absolutely no distortion at all using Alien Skin's Blow-UP 2 Software . It's my belief you could easily do a perfect 11x14 or 12x18 straight out of the camera though . Some people love the Digital Photo Professional software that comes with it , but my personal preference is Photoshop . Note that if you're still using CS3 or before you will need to convert the CR2 ' s from the 5D MK II using Adobe's DNG converter ( free download from Adobe ) or upgrade to at least CS4 . I am currently using this camera with the optional Canon BG-E6 Battery Grip for Canon 5D Mark II Digital SLR and 2 batteries in the grip . Battery life with this combination is amazing . I can easily go weeks between charges , and an easy menu on the camera gives detail on battery life . The incremental battery life indicator on the top window is a lot more accurate than the old 5D . It's just my preference but I disagree with the reviewers who say there should be a pop-up flash on camera . This camera is pro level quality and as any serious amateur or pro will tell you , built-in flashes are useless . In combination with my Canon Speedlite 580EX II Flash for Canon EOS Digital SLR Cameras it's a winning combination for flawless flash photographs with no red-eye and no harsh shadows when bounced . If you're going to spend this much on a camera , a good speedlight is a must . The latest firmware version 2.0.4 fixes some bugs and improves movie performance so if your new model doesn't have that version , it's a free download from Canon . I do not have experience with movie mode yet , so I will update this review later on that . I'm still have a bit of sticker-shock , but after using this camera awhile , it seems more an investment . Once you see the quality , it should alleviate your pain .
• 023 4  I'm a very serious amateur photographer , and have been shooting Canon digital cameras since 2003 . I purchased the 5D Mark II to replace my trusty 20D . Waited out the 40D , 50D , and 5D to get just the right camera , and from my time shooting today , it was worth the wait and premium over the crop cameras . I justified the additional cost this way : Rather than spending another $1,200 on a 16 - 35 lens that would yield ~ 26 - 48mm on the crop camera , I spent it on the 5D , which also gets me video capability . I can now get full use of my 24 - 105 for wide angle , and that lens really shines on this camera . My 70 - 200 is much more useful for closer quarters as well . I'm thankful that Canon didn't get the 50D right ( sorry 50D buyers , but that's my opinion ) , as it forced my hand on this camera . Pros : * Focus seems faster and more accurate than my 20D , which I'm sure could use some adjusting after 40K images . I've found myself letting the 5D select the focus points more often , which I never did on my 20D ( focus center , frame shot , shoot ) . I see no reason for any more focus points than it has for the type of shooting I do , but then I've never used a 1 series ( Lord help me if I do ) . * Screen - - simply amazing when moving up from 20D * Viewfinder - - beautiful , bright , almost total coverage vs . looking through a cave in the crop cameras * Image Quality - - Wow . High ISO , low noise . Easily 3 stops better than my 20D . Have only shot a few raw shots ( 24MB ! ! ! ) , and will be doing some comparison tonight . JPEG in camera looks amazing , and they aren't displayed with noise reduction in camera . * Build - - very solid , great shutter sound , buttons where they belong * Usability - - highly usable menus , adjustments , modes - - if you've shot Canon before , no surprises here * Fixed small things , like when you accidentally go from Play to shooting , or close the view , it takes you back to the last picture you viewed vs . making you start over ( reference 20D - - maybe this is fixed on others since then as well ) * Battery - - seems like they beefed it up appropriately for the large screen & live-view needs Cons : * Huge file sizes - - Better buy an external disk array for storage . I don't ( and most people don't ) really need 21 MP - - 15 beautiful MP would be better ( imagine the high ISO IQ if they didn't push this to 21MP to stay in the race with Sony & Nikon ! ) . I'm experimenting using the Medium setting ( about 11 MP ) to see if IQ is as good proportional to size . That will be much more usable file size for most work . * Nits on custom functions - - settings don't save unless you Menu back out after selecting them * Current cost of second battery ( swear they were $79 a month ago , now $145 ! ! ! ) I can't comment much on video yet , but have used enough to say that it isn't terribly practical to the average shooter . You shouldn't even consider that this is going to replace a HD camcorder for family shooting ( though you may still get away with trying to justify this to your non-photography-buff spouse ) . I didn't buy it for the video , so I'm not going into detail on that . Bottom line : Amazing camera if you can afford it . Looking forward to putting 100K images through it in its lifetime . Hope I can afford the storage ! Lemme know if you bought the battery grip and it is too big for your hands - - that is my next purchase .
• 024 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics ) I do own other p & s cameras besides Canon but admit to only owning Canon DSLRs ; I'm kind of tied into the Canon lenses at this point . I tried an Olympus as that was the brand I use for film , but was not at all happy with their DSLR image quality . As for Canon , I have owned the Rebel 300 , 20d and 40d . The 40d is a great camera and quite usable for the kind of photography I enjoy which is mostly landscape . I decided to take the plunge and go for a full frame camera despite the price . I have only used the 5d II about 4 times so far and only twice with the 40d for comparison , but feel pretty confident I can report on the differences . The 2 cameras are nearly identical in color space and dynamic range not to mention resolution per pixel . In other words if the image pixel count is the same on both cameras , you would be hard pressed to tell which camera took the picture . The 5d II just has more pixels . The 5d II trumps the 40d in several other areas too . * First is the high ISO range ; I am very happy with 800 - 1600 ISO images and I use to only like to settle for ISO 100 . * The 24 - 105L lens becomes a fantastic walk around lens because of the 21mp sensor , images can easily be cropped tight to a distant subject . * My 17 - 40L is now a true wide angle lens ! * Shadows at low ISOs have more depth than the 40d . * Lens micro adjustments can make autofocus nearly perfect . My 70 - 300 f5.6 back focuses on both bodies , but I was able to easily correct the issue on the 5d II . I still have to manually adjust on the 40d . * The back screen is much more usable ; I even started using live view mode for some shots . * Because of the resolution and dynamic range RAW images are quite flexible so I don't have to take as many variations . * Multiple resolutions to choose from even in RAW . * Better weather sealing is comforting as I do take the camera to places where it is misty and damp . * I've taken a couple of test movies which look lovely . I just don't see myself using this feature too often . There is always room for improvement so here is my wish list for the mark III . * An internal flash for filling in shadows . * Frame rate of 5 / sec would be nice even though I rarely need it . * The ability to select the range for the auto ISO feature ; I'd love to be able to limit the range to 200 - 800 for certain situations . * A pivoting back display is something that I miss from my old Nikon point and shoot cameras . It's really useful when shooting macros or for events where your shooting over people's heads .
• 029 4  I received my 5D MK II about 3 weeks ago . I have already shot over 2,000 shots and I can't believe the pictures . Most of my work is youth hockey . Shooting in Manual mode with ISO set at 6,400 , I am able to shoot at 1 / 500th or better at f 3.5 . My standard lens is the 70 - 200mm f2.8L and naturally I never use flash . The details are incredible , noise not a factor , and it focuses pretty fast . My previous camera was the 30D , and there is just no comparison . I have had no problems with battery life either . For the money ( $2,699 ) truly a great camera . I can't wait to do my next wedding . Chris B .
• 031 4  I went from a film SLR to a few of the early point-and-shoot digitals to a 10D and now a 5D Mark II . In the early days I wasn't willing to buy high-end digitals due to the ridiculously fast pace of the technology progression . The 5D II finally sold me . Generally speaking I am quite happy with the camera . It took some fiddling to get the picture quality I wanted . My 100 - 400mm F4 L works incredibly well and has no AF issues . My 28 - 105 ( stock ) F4 L was consistently soft on the AF but the fine focus adjustment CF fixed the issue . It was surprisingly easy to calibrate , just switch between live-mode focusing ( which is very slow but perfect ) and standard AF and adjust the fine focus until they match . I had go all the way to + 12 on my 28 - 105 . On a pixel-by-pixel basis there is still some slight softness looking at the raws , but it looks unavoidable considering how the RGB matrix works on a sensor , plus noise reduction ( depending on the ISO one is shooting at ) , and it is unnoticeable on prints or reductions . Still , I can only give Canon 3 stars on the AF because while it is always perfect on zooms sometimes it is just too wonky at wider angles , and the camera's automatic AF point selection is a roll of the dice . Fortunately the AF point can be easily selected . Finally , I also noticed that the AF sometimes got in the way of shooting with the zoom or tele , where I would hit the shutter button on a fast-moving subject that was never-the-less still in focus , and the camera would decide not to take the picture . Possibly it was just the AF mode I was in , but it seemed a bit inconsistent . The only way to go is to take full RAW photos and clean them up in post-production . Canon isn't known for good auto-white-balance but it's a minor inconvenience in post . The 14 - bit ADC has wonderful dynamic range . I had no problem cleaning up wedding photos taken in horrid lighting conditions ( beige walls , mix of fluorescents , flash ) . I also purchased the wireless file transmitter ( WFT-E4A ) . The WFT is incredibly convenient . No cables , no fuss . . . even if I'm not shooting in an area with internet access it's amazing how convenient it is to get it into the computer back home when I do get into range of a base station , or even once I get home . Battery life is excellent compared to earlier models . I have no complaints on that front . Both lens are excellent . I upgraded my flash as well . The 580ExII flash is excellent , far better then the 4xx series I had on my 10D . Big CF cards with UDMA are expensive but mandatory . This is not a cheap camera even if you don't count the lens . The RAWs hit 30MB and you will be unhappy if you aren't using 16G UDMA CF cards . The camera has no problem taking 500 + full blown shots on one set . Finally I am very impressed with the video capabilities . It took some messing around to get it figured out but I finally hit upon the ' + ' button to zoom the live-view , making manual focusing while shooting possible . Being able to adjust the exposure w / the new camera firmware is wonderful , too ! The quality is insane , I'll have to buy a faster computer to process it . It is not a camcorder so don't expect it to behave like one . It definitely works best when the subject is at a fixed focal point . Taking video with 100 - 400mm in stabilization mode 2 just blew me away . One thing I would love to have on this camera is the ability to set a specific auto-ISO range ( e.g . 100 - 800 , 400 - 1200 , 800 - 3200 , etc ) and then be able to fix both Av and Tv and have the camera only adjust the ISO and flash exposure . I'm a bit miffed that Canon hasn't done something like that yet . The current auto-ISO does not work very well in any mode other then Av . So that lack plus the AF issues cause me to drop the review to 4 stars even though I think the camera's only competition is the high-end Nikon ( and Nikon has its own issues ) . - Matt
• 034 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics ) I bought this camera a couple of weeks ago . I already owned the first version of the EOS 5D , but I thought it would be handy to have High Def video in the same unit . Many consumer grade handy cams have the ability to shoot stills , but their still photo resolution leaves much to be desired . I would have to carry both a high quality SLR and a handy cam to be ready for both situations . When the 5D Mark II came out I saw the opportunity to get high def both ways in a single camera . Indeed it does that , but the video capabilities of the 5D Mark II are not nearly as convenient to use as almost any consumer grade camcorder at 1 / 3 the price . Let me be clear about what I am saying . The quality of the high def video that the 5D Mark II shoots exceeds any consumer grade camcorder I have ever seen . Capturing that video however requires both hands whereas almost any handycam is a one handed breeze due to the ergonomic placement of the controls . Not so with the 5D Mark II . You would think that to start shooting video you simply select movies on the mode dial and click the shutter with your right index finger and everything happens automatically from that point . Not so . Not even close . With the 5D Mark II , first you press the live view button . The mirror flips up and the image appears on the LCD screen . Then you find the part of the image you want to be in focus and press the AF-ON button ( assuming you are using auto focus ) . Step 3 , you press the set button to start recording video . In the high def mode , the camera will record up to 12 minutes in a single run while making a digital file on the memory card of about 4GB . Think about that . 4 GB for 12 minutes ! One 12 minute clip would completely fill a standard single layer DVD . That's a whole lot of data ! In fact neither of my Windows based computers can play it back smoothly . Even the built-in playback within the camera itself is jerky . The more motion there is in the scene , the more frames that are dropped . Even the Canon web site acknowledges that the playback MAY be jerky unless your computer has a certain minimum configuration . To be fair , I will say that Apple computers seem to be much better playing back these huge movie files smoothly . This camera records movies in . MOV file format . That is Apple's Quicktime software . Even though Quicktime does run in a Windows environment , it seems to work much better on a Mac . A recent test I conducted showed that a current model Macbook Pro with a 2.53 GHz Intel CPU did a very smooth playback job using Quicktime . Speaking of focus , you would hope that you simply set the camera to the full automatic mode and your auto focus lens takes care of the rest for the duration of the clip . Once again no . It doesn't work that way . The only way I found to make this camera track the focus in movie mode is to set the mode dial to one of the non automatic positions , and set the focus to the servo position as though you were trying to capture still images of a moving subject . Zooming ? Ah yes , that is another capability that is far less convenient . Most handy cams have a built-in powered zoom that is easily operated with one finger on the same hand that is holding the camera . With the 5D Mark II , as with any quality SLR , zooming is done by reaching around to the front of the camera and rotating a lens ring . Needless to say , that can't be done smoothly if you are hand holding the camera with your other hand . With all the buttons to push and settings to remember , this is not the camera you want for shooting candid spontaneous footage in a hand held situation . To be sure it does a great job shooting video in a controlled environment mounted on a tripod with a fluid head . Without a steady mount however , this camera is best for stills if hand held .
• 035 4  I bought this camera a couple of weeks ago . I already owned the first version of the EOS 5D , but I thought it would be handy to have High Def video in the same unit . Many consumer grade handy cams have the ability to shoot stills , but their still photo resolution leaves much to be desired . I would have to carry both a high quality SLR and a handy cam to be ready for both situations . When the 5D Mark II came out I saw the opportunity to get high def both ways in a single camera . Indeed it does that , but the video capabilities of the 5D Mark II are not nearly as convenient to use as almost any consumer grade camcorder at 1 / 3 the price . Let me be clear about what I am saying . The quality of the high def video that the 5D Mark II shoots exceeds any consumer grade camcorder I have ever seen . Capturing that video however requires both hands whereas almost any handycam is a one handed breeze due to the ergonomic placement of the controls . Not so with the 5D Mark II . You would think that to start shooting video you simply select movies on the mode dial and click the shutter with your right index finger and everything happens automatically from that point . Not so . Not even close . With the 5D Mark II , first you press the live view button . The mirror flips up and the image appears on the LCD screen . Then you find the part of the image you want to be in focus and press the AF-ON button ( assuming you are using auto focus ) . Step 3 , you press the set button to start recording video . In the high def mode , the camera will record up to 12 minutes in a single run while making a digital file on the memory card of about 4GB . Think about that . 4 GB for 12 minutes ! One 12 minute clip would completely fill a standard single layer DVD . That's a whole lot of data ! In fact neither of my Windows based computers can play it back smoothly . Even the built-in playback within the camera itself is jerky . The more motion there is in the scene , the more frames that are dropped . Even the Canon web site acknowledges that the playback MAY be jerky unless your computer has a certain minimum configuration . To be fair , I will say that Apple computers seem to be much better playing back these huge movie files smoothly . This camera records movies in . MOV file format . That is Apple's Quicktime software . Even though Quicktime does run in a Windows environment , it seems to work much better on a Mac . A recent test I conducted showed that a current model Macbook Pro with a 2.53 GHz Intel CPU did a very smooth playback job using Quicktime . Speaking of focus , you would hope that you simply set the camera to the full automatic mode and your auto focus lens takes care of the rest for the duration of the clip . Once again no . It doesn't work that way . The only way I found to make this camera track the focus in movie mode is to set the mode dial to one of the non automatic positions , and set the focus to the servo position as though you were trying to capture still images of a moving subject . Zooming ? Ah yes , that is another capability that is far less convenient . Most handy cams have a built-in powered zoom that is easily operated with one finger on the same hand that is holding the camera . With the 5D Mark II , as with any quality SLR , zooming is done by reaching around to the front of the camera and rotating a lens ring . Needless to say , that can't be done smoothly if you are hand holding the camera with your other hand . With all the buttons to push and settings to remember , this is not the camera you want for shooting candid spontaneous footage in a hand held situation . To be sure it does a great job shooting video in a controlled environment mounted on a tripod with a fluid head . Without a steady mount however , this camera is best for stills if hand held .
• 038 4  The DIGIC 4 processor blows pretty much every other camera out of the water . It displays ISO 3200 with the amount of noise of a ISO 800 shot on the older DIGIC 2 & 3 models ( ISO 1600 looks like ISO 640 ) . The detail you get out of a 21.1 MP image is unbelievable . . . My only warning is to get a big memory card . If you are shooting in RAW , you're looking at 25 - 30MB per picture ( 10MB in JPEG ) . I get about 430 shots out of a 12.0GB card in RAW . Also , the RAW files can't read in many RAW reading programs , so you'll need Adobe DNG Converter ( free at Adobe's site ) or Adobe CS4 . Combine this camera with a low f-stop lens and you're in for a real treat .
• 039 4  I purchased this camera to use whenever I didn't need my 1D ( too heavy to carry around Disneyland ) . It's been just about a year and so far , I absolutely love it and gave it a 5 star rating and here are the reason why : Ease of use : coming from other Canon bodies , the controls and function of the camera was a breeze . Infact , some new items in the menu , such as My Menu , allows you to add your most used functions and is very easily accessed . I've heard Nikon users complaining that Canon controls are difficult and not layout well . Newsflash : Canon is a completely different system and therefore , is going to be different . I can control my Canon by touch in total darkness , but put a Nikon in my hands , I'm lost . Image / Picture Quality : it's a Canon with a full size sensor . They are the pioneers and leaders in CMOS sensors for DSLRs and their dedication shows . I have no probem shooting ISO1600 and often shoot ISO6400 without much thought . I shoot mostly L series lens and the colors recorded is simply amazing . Not over saturated like the other brand cameras , just really natural colors . Beautiful for shooting people , as well as nature . Video Quality : at first I was very hesitant to accept the fact that my DSLR has a built-in video camera . Once I got used to the idea of having a video camera and once I started tinkering with it , I was amazed . Full HD video shot between stills , then all combined into a slideshow is just awesome ! The actual video quality is breathtaking . Just like anything else full HD , the clarity seems too good to be true . Sound is OK , but if I were to do more video capture with my camera , I would definitely purchase an external mic . If shooting video is your thing , there is NO better video camera out there . You can spend $10K on a video camera , but bottom line is , the quality isn't going to be as good as the Canon 5DMKII due to the size of the image sensor . As far as I know , there are no video cameras with an image sensor that's comparable to the Canon 5DMKII . What's more , you can use any of the Canon lens to shoot video with . Weather Sealing : there seem to be a lot of people out there concerned about the quality of Canon's weather sealing . My experience with the weather seals have all been positive . I've been in sand storms ( desert ) , full down pour raining ( Alaska , Hawaii , etc ) , and even extreme dust ( popcorn ceiling scraped , walls torn down , drywall dust everywhere ) and so far , NOTHING , NO DUST inside the camera ! That's amazing ! I'd say the camera is pretty well sealed against the environment . Durability : Don't let the lightweight magnesium alloy body fool you . Just because it's light doesn't mean it's weak . It just means it's easier to carry and handle all day long . I was walking and shooting a subject one day and tripped on a curb . I fell over and managed to not land on the camera , but the camera's body did strike the side of the curb . Yes , it left a gash mark down to bare metal , but the camera is still totally fine . BOTTOM LINE : great tool . Best camera I've ever used .
• 041 4  Do you find that you purchase good stuff rather than mediocre stuff and then deal with the hassle of selling and upgrading later ? Rarely find yourself comparing toys and you don't have the best ( or close to the best ? ) What if getting close to the best camera didn't cost an arm and a leg to get , then . . . . . If you're like most of us , read all the reviews you can find ( thats the fun part . ) . . . then you'll probably end up purchasing this camera even though you don't know it yet . I purchased this camera in Jan 2009 once I could find it msrp . Have since purchased 2 L lenses the 35 f1.4 and 85 f1.2 hence , it rare that I'll find myself envying someone else's equipment . . . or pictures for that matter . The only real mediocre aspect about this camera is the AI-Servo . . . Auto Focus results in low keeper rates , try manually focusing . The in focus pictures are awesome even when printing 30 posters .
• 042 4  Firstly , these reviews are for the products , people . NOT the seller . The review sticks with the item , not the sellers ( which change frequently anyway ) . In any case , to those of you complaining the seller had overpriced the camera . . . um . . . don't buy it . It's economics , and rather simple economics at that : the best camera EVER was released just before Christmas , and it was sold out everywhere . If I were a seller with a few in stock , I'd charge an arm and a leg too . Geeez . Whiners . Anyway , to a quick review of the camera . It's freaking bloody fantastic . And I only use british slang when I'm really excited . Pictures taken with this camera , using L glass , look like doughnuts to Homer Simpson . I put on my 17 - 40mm F / 4L and just walked around my house taking pictures of my dogs . AMAZING . I had a 40D before this ( and many other cameras before ) , and I was very pleased with it . I really didn't expect to see this much of a difference . * * * ONE THING EVERYONE WITH THIS CAMERA SHOULD READ ! * * * My copy of this camera was not refurb and not grey market , but it did have a couple hot ( stuck ) pixels . Take an exposure with the lens cap on , for a few seconds . Now pixel-peep the image , either zoomed in fully on the LCD , or on your computer ( easier ) . I had two bright red pixels ( at any ISO , shutter speed , settings ) . I came across a solution in a post on some random forum , and it worked for me : Go to the camera settings and turn on manual sensor cleaning . It will tell you to turn off the camera when you're done . Click OK to that , wait about 30 seconds , then turn the camera off . THAT'S IT ! I was very saddened to think I'd either be returning my new camera or sending it in for pixel remapping , but now am STOKED that it's all fixed !
• 048 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics ) What can I say , the is one amazing camera . I bought this to replace my old body ( 20D ) . Full frame is the way to go , I can't say enough about this camera . The image quality is amazing , low light photography is better then expected . The added video is nice , while the live view is a welcomed change . I also purchased the battery grip with this unit plus a large ( 16gb ) high speed card , you definitely need the larger memory card if you will be shooting in raw + jpg , like i do . Now I can take advantage of my L glass with this camera . Well worth the price ! My clients will appreciate the end result . One last thing , if you are a extreme macro photographer , you will take advantage of the live view function , it helps when you reach for a shot especially with the Canon MP-E 65mm Lens , Canon MT - 24EX Flash . Happy Shooting !
• 050 4  For starters I dont have the focusing problems that some reviewers have had , but I have used this body with manual focusing lenses on static subjects and I have found that the live view is very well designed ( better than my Nikon D300 ) and very useful . Suddenly an old Nikon super-telephoto lens that was very hard to focus has taken on a new life . I'm using an adapter ring of course . Live view has also made it easy to use atilt and shift lens . Pictures using lenses like the 50mm AF F / 1.8 lenses are extremely sharp ( and therefore the focusing is accurate ) , and I get the impression they could increase the pixel count even further and it would be worth it . My 24 - 105 mm lens however is beginning to look soft in the corners with this camera . I found the user interface an instant improvement when moving up from the 5D . This is partly facilitated by the improved screen resolution , so now I can find what I'm looking for much faster . It's almost visible in full daylight ( but you better use your body to shade it ) . The user manual is very well written . The infrared remote control RC - 5 does not make it possible to take instant shots : there is always a delay . This is a disappointment . HDR photographers will also be disappointed to note that you still cannot take more that 3 exposures without touching the camera or buying a rather expensive Promote Systems Promote Control , Remote Control for Digital SLR Cameras I have not used the video yet , but I have seen a professional documentary that was entirely filmed with this camera and was blown away by the quality . Low light photography is improved over the 5D which was highly praised at the time . You get about an extra f-stop . I also appreciate a bit of sealing as the previous model was extremely vulnerable on this count : like you would not want to bring it to a party with drinks splashing around . This camera may not be a sport's shooter's dream but it is very good for landscape , with a tilt and shift lens like Canon TS-E 24mm f / 3.5L II Ultra Wide Tilt-Shift Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras All in all there are no regrets moving up to this , and I will sell my 5D for a low price .
• 051 4  I finally gave up on film , reluctantly , like the old guy that I am , surrendering my Nikon after playing with my brother's Canon 5D . The 5D Mk II is an amazing camera , and if there were ever a question about digital having finally surpassed film , the answer is in . The images are crisp and gorgeous , and the camera has all the flexibility anyone could every hope for , and then some . The controls quickly become familiar and convenient , and the low-light sensitivity is astounding . That having been said , there are some notes I would make . It is built like a tank , and when matched with an L - series lens like the 24 - 70mm or 70 - 200mm is significant in its mass . In addition , the video images , though beautiful , must be further processed before they can be used in many video-editing programs ( I use Vegas Pro 8.1 ) , and I ended up having to purchase CineForm's NeoScene at about $100 to make them usable . It almost seemed as though Canon's video people weren't consulted fully on the video part of the camera . Again , however , great images are obtained once properly dealt with . I am sure that in the near future , an even more amazing camera will be sold ; for me , this thing is perfect , even though I had to trade with my wife big time to purchase it .
• 052 4  The Canon 5D Mark II really hits a new portion of the market - it's really a professional level DSLR at a price accessible to shutterbugs , photography enthusiasts , and independent filmmakers . The camera features an incredible Full Frame CMOS sensor that does very well in low light . . . this sensor is , in fact , larger than that of the Red One 4K Cinema camera , which costs approximately $17,000 ( please note that I am not comparing these two cameras - they really do serve two VERY different purposes ) . Canon really made a step in the right direction with this camera . It provides quality , functionality , ease of use , and the accessibility of professional level products to those with shallower pockets . This camera has been great for everything from candid family shots , to shooting great videos of trips to Europe , family gathers , etc . While the still photos are incredible and the video rivals that of exponentially more expensive HD cameras , the only things keeping this camera from being much better with video is the processor and the write speed . I think we can , however , expect to see Canon focus on this in the near future . They do provide great user requested features in their firmware updates , which is more than can be said by most prosumer / professional electronics manafacturers . I would absolutely recommend this camera to anyone who is looking for a camera that does it all without having to cost more than the car they drive .
• 055 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics ) I was scared to spend the money but when i received the camera i was pretty sure i had made the right decision . The menu system is very similar to the 50D so i was able to start making custom settings instantly . The ' bulb ' setting is a welcome feature compared to the 50 and as is the 3 custom settings instead of 2 . Image quality is awesome along with the full frame sensor to bring out the best of my L series lenses . Take the time to sign on to the canon registration since you get extra perks as a 5D owner .
• 066 4  I have been using this camera for 5 months with about 10000 shots . To canon's credit , the images quality are excellent , so is the video . However , the huge pet peeve is the cheap memory card door . In order to hold this heavy camera , your palm will press firmly agaist the back of the handgrip , where the memory card door is located . This flimsy plastic door generates non-stop noise because of the pressure . This is particularly harmful when shooting video of concerts etc , as the noise gets amplified in the sound track . Extremely annoying in video play back . Can't Canon make a better card door for this $2700 camera ? The other problem is several hot pixels when shooting video . Before I sent back the camera for service , I searched the internet and found a solution ( now I forgot how , but it's searchable with keywords ) . It works fine now . I didn't bother to send it back .
• 067 4  I own the 5D , and decided to upgrade for the added megapixels and quality . The 5D is awesome . . . the 5D II is AMAZING ! ! ! ! I am sure this review is not going to make someone buy this camera . . . you have probably done tons of research about all the details . If you are wondering whether all you read is accurate and the camera is worth the money - YES ! I feel this is the best bang for your buck in a compact , full-frame , semi-pro level camera . I use the camera mainly for landscape photography . . . the images captured are stunning . I recently enlarged a print to 20x30 and could not believe the quality and detail . This is not just an increase in megapixels , but rather an increase in QUALITY megapixels . The camera is not extremely large and expensive like the Pro level series . The camera's size makes it perfect for traveling and hiking into remote locations . I have not used the HD video yet , but that is not the intended use of the camera . The new batteries seem to last almost twice as long as those in my 5D . One note . . . either buy extra memory cards or a back-up drive to dump photos onto . . . the files are huge in RAW which is what I shoot . If you plan on any HDR or panoramas or a week in the field , a couple of 8gb cards will be full quicker than you expect . The file size will be more than welcome once you enlarge or crop a photo - like I stated earlier . . . stunning .
• 070 4  I've had a couple cheaper rebels in the past and jumped up to the 5D II because I was tired of wanting to upgrade and figured I would just do it all in one big leap . I love this camera . I see some people complain about the AF and the points . I don't do studio work and 90% of the time ( or more ) use the center point anyway , so this might be an issue for some but really has no effect on my use . High ISO is just great compared to the crop frames . I can use my 100 - 400mm L in many more situations now because of the ISO performance on this camera as that lens needs good light because it is not very fast . 4 frames a sec is perfectly fine for what I do . The camera is large and heavy compared to a Rebel but for a full frame I think it is quite compact and feels great in my hand . I do not mind walking half the day with the 24 - 70mm f / 2.8L mounted . I would recommend getting a hand strap for it though , instead of the neck strap . I got one for around $15 and it works great ! The camera is a lot of money for an amateur but I am happy that I have and think I got what I paid for ! Some sample pictures that I've taken with the 5D Mark II : click ' all sizes ' above the pic for larger sizes . 24 - 70mm f / 2.8L , B & W CP [ . . . ] 24 - 70mm f / 2.8L , B & W 10 stop ND filter [ . . . ] 24 - 70mm f / 2.8L , B & W 10 stop ND filter [ . . . ] 135mm f / 2L [ . . . ] 24 - 70mm f / 2.8L , B & W 10 stop ND filter [ . . . ]
• 071 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics ) I've had this camera since December and it is better than I thought it will be . I read the reviews before I bought in which people complained about the focus . It is true that you need to be much more careful about focus with this camera ( I came from a 20D . ) It's not that there's anything wrong with the camera . To the contrary , it's that the detail is so good that your focus mistakes show up more . Use good lenses , use good technique and the results you get will amaze you .
• 078 4  Here's my review in as few words as possible . The 5d was the darling of full-frame . The 5d mark II has improved it in almost every way . More megapixels Better and Higher ISO performance Faster framerate Larger and clearer LCD screen Better menus More customization options Added bonus of shooting HD video And this is only scratching the surface . This is an absolutely fantastic camera and coupled with Canons first-class lens lineup , this makes for an easy choice .
• 082 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics ) I am coming from a Canon 10D so In comparison to other models I have nothing , but there is nothing I dislike about this Camera . I purchased this with a 24 - 70mm f / 2.8L Lens as well . I have no review on the video abilities yet . 21.1 MP gives me an incredible about of room to work in Photoshop if I want to re-frame my composure , or make 11x14 or 12x16 prints at 300 DPI . I couldn't even make an 8x10 on my 10D at 300DPI . The color reproduction has left me with very little Photoshop work , which is fine , saves me a ton of Post Processing . Pictures have been sharp corner to corner , and even looking through the viewfinder is crystal-clear and bright ( that could be attributed to the f / 2.8 Lens ) . Speaking of bright , the LCD is amazing compared to the old 10D . I do not however use live view , I use the viewfinder , as when shooting moving objects there is quite a bit of lag between live view's image and shutter . I usually take ~ 100 Pictures each time on my nature shoots , and the battery has held up great . I usually recharge it every few shoots . I do plan to get a 2nd battery before the wedding I'm shooting next year however . I've read notes about focusing problems , but I have encountered none . And I have shot from less than a foot away to infinity focus and everywhere in between , and the only noticeable issues I have had were when my cheap $20 tripod didn't like the shutter shake on 1 / 3 sec or longer shots . Ruled it to be the tripod by switching to self-timer and putting a little weight on the tripod with my hand . Pictures then came out razor sharp . The image sensor seems to perform far better than my 10d especially when confronted with very sunny areas mixed with shadows . I have taken pictures with little to no Blowout and Black Crush that my 10D ( same settings and lens ) suffered from . I have taken indoor pictures at ISO1600 that , short of being at 100% crops , you have a hard time pointing out noise . I've taken some very nice flashless pictures at 1600 and when printed at high dpi or used on webpages look great still . 10D at 1600 would look like your tv when the cable goes out more or less . The software that comes with the camera is great for making adjustments and converting your RAW to JPEG's if needed . NOTE : When I registered my camera , I got a note from Canon that Firmware 2.0.7 is now out , check it out if you have 2.0.3 or 2.0.4 still ! So my short sum up . Pros : High Resolution , Great ISO Performance ( including expanding to ISO50 ) , Great Color and Gradient Reproduction to minimize post processing . Cons : Shutter Lag when using ' Live View ' ( not a con for me , just wanted to make people aware ) , 30MB CR2 files fill up your space fast , Large sensor has more area for dust to stick to , so get a good Cleaning Kit and squeeze blower .
• 083 4  I am coming from a Canon 10D so In comparison to other models I have nothing , but there is nothing I dislike about this Camera . I purchased this with a 24 - 70mm f / 2.8L Lens as well . I have no review on the video abilities yet . 21.1 MP gives me an incredible about of room to work in Photoshop if I want to re-frame my composure , or make 11x14 or 12x16 prints at 300 DPI . I couldn't even make an 8x10 on my 10D at 300DPI . The color reproduction has left me with very little Photoshop work , which is fine , saves me a ton of Post Processing . Pictures have been sharp corner to corner , and even looking through the viewfinder is crystal-clear and bright ( that could be attributed to the f / 2.8 Lens ) . Speaking of bright , the LCD is amazing compared to the old 10D . I do not however use live view , I use the viewfinder , as when shooting moving objects there is quite a bit of lag between live view's image and shutter . I usually take ~ 100 Pictures each time on my nature shoots , and the battery has held up great . I usually recharge it every few shoots . I do plan to get a 2nd battery before the wedding I'm shooting next year however . I've read notes about focusing problems , but I have encountered none . And I have shot from less than a foot away to infinity focus and everywhere in between , and the only noticeable issues I have had were when my cheap $20 tripod didn't like the shutter shake on 1 / 3 sec or longer shots . Ruled it to be the tripod by switching to self-timer and putting a little weight on the tripod with my hand . Pictures then came out razor sharp . The image sensor seems to perform far better than my 10d especially when confronted with very sunny areas mixed with shadows . I have taken pictures with little to no Blowout and Black Crush that my 10D ( same settings and lens ) suffered from . I have taken indoor pictures at ISO1600 that , short of being at 100% crops , you have a hard time pointing out noise . I've taken some very nice flashless pictures at 1600 and when printed at high dpi or used on webpages look great still . 10D at 1600 would look like your tv when the cable goes out more or less . The software that comes with the camera is great for making adjustments and converting your RAW to JPEG's if needed . NOTE : When I registered my camera , I got a note from Canon that Firmware 2.0.7 is now out , check it out if you have 2.0.3 or 2.0.4 still ! So my short sum up . Pros : High Resolution , Great ISO Performance ( including expanding to ISO50 ) , Great Color and Gradient Reproduction to minimize post processing . Cons : Shutter Lag when using ' Live View ' ( not a con for me , just wanted to make people aware ) , 30MB CR2 files fill up your space fast , Large sensor has more area for dust to stick to , so get a good Cleaning Kit and squeeze blower .
• 085 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics ) The 5D's great strengths seem to be in it's handling of low light and it's wider frame if doing landscapes . I've been photographing people so the wider frame wasn't as important as handling darker situations without a flash . When people state the fps are lower they really are and the camera is extremely slower taking consecutive images than my 50D . The 50D is the machine gun of cameras and I am happily taken with it as well . The fact many not so great photographers in my area brag they have the 5D hasn't seem to improved their images but it is a testimony to how impressive a reputation the camer has gotten . I'm finding the wonders of 21MP a great deal harder to throw around than my other image even on a maxed out quad core system . Of course you can reduce this with the settings but it's hard to down grade such amazing amount of detail . Keep up the great work Canon . . . and fire that guy who makes the ' icon ( ) ' symbols for metering . : ) ~ T
• 091 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics ) I sold my Canon 1d Mark II on ebay and bought this one . Took various test shots and noticed that some shots were a bit out of focus . So i set up a grid at a 45 degree angle and noticed that the camera was focusing past the focus lock point . I tested with various back focusing test online and sure enough it was back focusing . A while ago i had this problem with my Canon 10d and had sent it to canon for repair 3 times and they said they could not fix it and i was too picky . Well if i am going to spend 2700 on a camera with 21 megapixels , darn tootin i am going to be picky . 5 stars to Amazon , i had the camera 25 days and they let me return it . I will always buy from Amazon just for this reason , a very good return policy , even on digital cameras where most give you only 10 days then a huge restocking fee .
• 092 4  I sold my Canon 1d Mark II on ebay and bought this one . Took various test shots and noticed that some shots were a bit out of focus . So i set up a grid at a 45 degree angle and noticed that the camera was focusing past the focus lock point . I tested with various back focusing test online and sure enough it was back focusing . A while ago i had this problem with my Canon 10d and had sent it to canon for repair 3 times and they said they could not fix it and i was too picky . Well if i am going to spend 2700 on a camera with 21 megapixels , darn tootin i am going to be picky . 5 stars to Amazon , i had the camera 25 days and they let me return it . I will always buy from Amazon just for this reason , a very good return policy , even on digital cameras where most give you only 10 days then a huge restocking fee .
• 093 4  Great sensor & image quality . However , the camera lacks many features one would expect from a $2700 camera : * Auto-focus points are poorly placed ( focus and recompose doesn't work well due to shallow depth of field ) . * The CF card door creaks & is flimsy - - - this affects the grip ; I can't attach a heavy lens ( 24 - 70L ) and hold the camera comfortably . This problem is very common and well documented ( do a web search ) . * Outer auto-focus points hunt quite a bit . The camera feels non-responsive when using outer AF points ( I'm coming from 40D ) . * The camera is quite heavy ; I don't see why it should be given the poor construction . Weight becomes a problem especially with heavier lenses ( 24 - 70L and 85 f / 1.2L ) , where you get blurry shots more frequently ( again , compared to 40D ) . * Lack of pop-up flash is bothering ( although I have an external unit ) ; If Nikon can do it , why can't Canon ? * Lack of auto-focus during video recording . Expect to get a lot of out of focus videos if you shoot family & kids . No 720p option . The video files are huge ( ~ 1 gig for 3 - 4 mins of video ) .
• 099 4  I used to own Nikon FM10 35mm film SLR , I enjoyed shooting long exposure shots at night in city areas , when I switched to DSLR , the first one was Canon EOS Rebel XT , I tried the same night long exposure and the photos always have lot of grainy red dots , no matter how much the ISO is low and different size aperture . Then I bought Canon 40D , and I got the same problem , I even tried Nikon D90 , the red dots were reduced , but still very noticeable . The exposure time was always less than 30 seconds , but the shooting was always in the city night , were there are always light pollution . Finally I got the 5D Mark II , and I did few testing and the red dots were very minimal , my friend gave me a tip , to disable the long exposure comp in the camera , which is the opposite of what someone should do , but that did the trick , the shots looked much better and cleaner . This is truly an amazing sensor , that can match the 35mm film quality .
• 103 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics ) I've had it for a couple of weeks now and I love it . It shoots in super low light ! It does everything it claims to do . The picture is really what makes it worth it . It simply looks amazing . It has so much depth it almost looks 3D ! No problems at all . No complaints . I highly recommend it !
• 107 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF 24 - 105mm f / 4 L IS USM Lens ( Electronics ) I spent 6 months trying to decide between this lens and the 24 70 Zeiss Vario Sonnar ( Sony ) . It was a tough call to finally make this decision . In the end I really wanted the extra zoom range this lens provides . Saving $600.00 doesn't hurt either . Aware that many minor flaws could be addressed in after-processing , I finally made this purchase . I have other Zeiss lenses including another Vario Sonnar and now that I have this lens I can say that the Zeiss lenses are optically superior , but the difference is minor . I'm keeping this lens and I'm happy with it . ( The 5D Mark II provides nice support as well - - no complaints ) . The build quality of this lens is excellent - - completely satisfied . Center sharpness is excellent across the zoom range . Edge sharpness is fair to occasionally disappointing , but not worse than expected . Vignetting is pronounced at the 24mm end with noticeable distortion but correctable . CA ( red / green ) is most obvious at the 24mm end and pretty bad at the edges , again not worse than expected and at least partially correctable . I was very pleased to see no center CA even under stressful conditions . Auto focus speed is impressive . The built in IS is icing on the cake . I was able to use it to advantage right away and not raise the ISO . I shot successfully with the lens at 105mm and a shutter speed of 1 / 80th sec . - - impressed again . I give this lens 4 stars for overall optical quality . I give this lens 5 stars for overall price / performance value . The camera build quality is excellent . Controls are well laid out and the camera is easy to use . The battery charges quickly and the battery life is excellent . - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - The purchase experience through Amazon was frustrating , but in the end a good deal . I decided to take them up on the 12 month-no-interest deal . Four phone calls and two days of irritation later it went through .
• 108 4  I spent 6 months trying to decide between this lens and the 24 70 Zeiss Vario Sonnar ( Sony ) . It was a tough call to finally make this decision . In the end I really wanted the extra zoom range this lens provides . Saving $600.00 doesn't hurt either . Aware that many minor flaws could be addressed in after-processing , I finally made this purchase . I have other Zeiss lenses including another Vario Sonnar and now that I have this lens I can say that the Zeiss lenses are optically superior , but the difference is minor . I'm keeping this lens and I'm happy with it . ( The 5D Mark II provides nice support as well - - no complaints ) . The build quality of this lens is excellent - - completely satisfied . Center sharpness is excellent across the zoom range . Edge sharpness is fair to occasionally disappointing , but not worse than expected . Vignetting is pronounced at the 24mm end with noticeable distortion but correctable . CA ( red / green ) is most obvious at the 24mm end and pretty bad at the edges , again not worse than expected and at least partially correctable . I was very pleased to see no center CA even under stressful conditions . Auto focus speed is impressive . The built in IS is icing on the cake . I was able to use it to advantage right away and not raise the ISO . I shot successfully with the lens at 105mm and a shutter speed of 1 / 80th sec . - - impressed again . I give this lens 4 stars for overall optical quality . I give this lens 5 stars for overall price / performance value . The camera build quality is excellent . Controls are well laid out and the camera is easy to use . The battery charges quickly and the battery life is excellent . - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - The purchase experience through Amazon was frustrating , but in the end a good deal . I decided to take them up on the 12 month-no-interest deal . Four phone calls and two days of irritation later it went through .
• 110 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics ) This is a great camera . The buttons can be a bit confusing , but I'm just getting use to them . The camera feels good in my hands - solid , substantial . The LCD on the back of the camera is large , bright , and clear . The various menus make life easier . I highly recommend this product . I've been using a Canon T90 film SLR since 1986 and if the 5D Mark II performs half as well I'll be delighted .
• 115 4  Great camera . For those like me who are more familiar with film cameras , it offers an incredible range of options ! The service from Calumet was excellent , even quicker than expected .
• 120 4  So I finally received the camera but it came without the lens . The box it came packaged in clearly stated it was Body Only but the sticker with the UPC code was for Body + Kit . I was charged for the Body + Kit . . . I'm not sure whose fault it is ( Amazon or Canon ) but that's what it is . As for the camera , I love it and the black spots reported by some users are there ( christmas lights ) but at extreme magnification only . Beside for my use , I don't make a living taking pictures of Christmas lights ( or city lights ) . I'm also pretty confident that Canon will release a firmware fix soon .
• 125 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics ) I am happy with the 5D mark 11 . But I have on going issues . The screen decides to shut off by it's self when reviewing photos . It has frozen and then shuts off.This is when I am using the camera . I hate the idea of a video in the camera . Canon should have focused on the camera and not at all on video . I have all Canon due to investing in lens . Unsure if Nikon is better . My partner uses Nikon D3 . He loves it . And craps on mine all the time . But over all Canon should have did more testing and spent more time and money on this Camera . And forget a video . Over all I would say it's a B - camera . I hate to say I like and trust my 50D more . I took the 50D to Argentina . It had no issues at over 10,000 shots and nearly a month from cold to jungles . But of course the 50D has major disadvantages over the 5D . Maybe step up to 1D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . that's a big jump .
• 127 4  The New York Times today reported that indie director Monte Hellman ( Two Lane Blacktop ) has a new movie at the Cannes film festival this year , shot entirely with the Canon 5D Mark II . In the article Hellman talks about the camera , and accompanying stills from the feature are breathtaking . [ . . . ] Now I want to get one . . .
• 133 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics ) I have changed cameras through the following order 300D 350D 20D 30D 40D and now 5D mark II I love the 5D , and its better than the previous 5D in price ( when it was launched ) and much richer in features and advancements . I won't go too technical , you can check many websites for that .
• 134 4  I have changed cameras through the following order 300D 350D 20D 30D 40D and now 5D mark II I love the 5D , and its better than the previous 5D in price ( when it was launched ) and much richer in features and advancements . I won't go too technical , you can check many websites for that .
• 135 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics ) Hi , I love the pictures this produces but the transfer hangs when connecting the cmaera to the computer . I have updated the fireware , tried different cards and I have 3 computers ; it does the same thing with all of them etc I am using a 16gb extreme iv card from sandisk and that works fine in a media card reader . Anyone else seen this issue ? Chris
• 137 4  I have the Classic 5D and waited 5 weeks before I found the 5DMKII on Amazon . I considered buying another Canon body due to frustration from waiting , but I ` m glad I waited . This camera is the best . On my first shoot I was able to capture a Hanger . Canon ` s digital photo forum CC section gave my shot Keeper , Hanger and Sell it reviews . I couldn't be happier with this camera .
• 138 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera ( Body Only ) ( Electronics ) for anyone looking to get this camera they know exactly what they want and what they are getting , in one sentence , this camera is superb in every way .
• 146 4  I'm elated with this camera , which is my first purchase of a digital SLR with detachable lenses ( not point and shoot ) . As I was about to take a vacation to a far-off land , I wanted the camera right away . Yet the EOS 5D Mark II was not immediately available at full retail . By paying a premium over retail from a vendor using Amazon as a store front , I was able to get the camera in time for my trip .
• 148 4  This will be a popular comparison . D700 excels in auto focus , low noise , faster burst mode . EOS 5D Mark II excels with more resolution , bigger view finder , and HD video . Cost is important as well . The more important comparison is overall system costs . With either full-frame camera , the ideal kit will eventually include the 24 - 70mm f / 2.8 ( Canon : [ . . . ] , Nikon : [ . . . ] ) and 70 - 200mm f / 2.8 ( Canon : [ . . . ] , Nikon : [ . . . ] ) . Once the Canon EOS 5d MkII price settles closer to the MSRP , I think the Nikon package will be more expensive by at least [ . . . ] . So keep total costs in mind .
• 151 4  I am a pro event / concert shooter and have been very happy with my 5D for the past 1.5 years . Last month I purchased a 5D Mark II and returned it 2 weeks later . I was experiencing intermittent issues with auto focus ; specifically the camera would freeze up or just not respond sometimes while trying to focus . This occurred not in high speed or fast action situations , but in simple grip & grin portrait situations . I started reading the reviews and blogs and noticed that many users were complaining about this . The 5D is an excellent event camera and I will be waiting for the next generation of the 5D Mark instead of being a guinea pig for Canon . On another topic , though I have owned every digital Canon body starting with the D60 , does this stupid dioptor adjustment dial that Canon insists on putting on every body piss anyone else off but me ? It's useless ( I even wear glasses and have no use for it ) , and has messed up many key shots when the dial was inadvertently not on the center hash mark ! In my opinion , it defeats the credibility of Canon's pro-sumer camera line with this gimmicky and worthless crap option ! Why do they insist on keeping the dioptor adjustment on every camera body and for whose benefit ?
• 152 4  Great stills quality . Good ISO ( but not excellent like the D700 or D3 ) HD video mode sounds enticing but is practically unusable for pros / artists who demand precise control of the camera gear . Is this camera built to shoot home videos ? or for creative professionals ? Please take away the Full Automatic video mode and give us control over aperture and shutter speed and ISO !
• 155 4  I enjoy this camera as a still photography camera , but this is not only still photography camera and few who would purchase this camera would regard it as such . This camera is a digital still and motion picture camera that lacks essential features such as Manual Control and 24p . Features easily created , features that were not forgotten or overlooked , but deliberately withheld by the Camera's manufacturer . Companies like Red , Panasonic , Sony , and Nikon all stand to profit from Canon's glaring mistake and Canon has everything to lose in this increasingly competitive market . Simply by withholding features like manual control , Canon has not demonstrated the ability to provide professional solutions in a converging market . I will look elsewhere if these problems are not resolved . My review is simple . This camera is only half of what it could easily be . If this change is made in a firmware update , I will HIGHLY recommend the camera and L-series lenses to all my professional colleagues . Until then , I will steer them in other directions . Call Canon to address your Manual concern ! In the USA : For toll-free technical support , please call 1 ( 800 ) 828 - 4040 during regular business hours ( currently Monday-Friday 8 : 00 a.m . - 12 : 00 midnight . EST , Saturday 10 : 00 a.m . - 8 : 00 p.m . , excluding holidays ) .


• 049 4  What can I say , the is one amazing camera . I bought this to replace my old body ( 20D ) . Full frame is the way to go , I can't say enough about this camera . The image quality is amazing , low light photography is better then expected . The added video is nice , while the live view is a welcomed change . I also purchased the battery grip with this unit plus a large ( 16gb ) high speed card , you definitely need the larger memory card if you will be shooting in raw + jpg , like i do . Now I can take advantage of my L glass with this camera . Well worth the price ! My clients will appreciate the end result . One last thing , if you are a extreme macro photographer , you will take advantage of the live view function , it helps when you reach for a shot especially with the Canon MP-E 65mm Lens , Canon MT - 24EX Flash . Happy Shooting !


• 056 4  I was scared to spend the money but when i received the camera i was pretty sure i had made the right decision . The menu system is very similar to the 50D so i was able to start making custom settings instantly . The ' bulb ' setting is a welcome feature compared to the 50 and as is the 3 custom settings instead of 2 . Image quality is awesome along with the full frame sensor to bring out the best of my L series lenses . Take the time to sign on to the canon registration since you get extra perks as a 5D owner .
• 058 4  I like this camera . It really makes me look bad , as I used to be very trigger happy , and with this one , well , let's say that your errors get augmented . But , when , once in a while , I take a good picture , the results are superb ! . I like it , because it challanged me to be better , to think better about the composition , and about the light , about the subject . It's my favorite camera now .
• 132 4  I have only used this camera for a few weeks , but it takes exceptional images . It has become my full time camera !
• 163 4  About a thousand dollars more then it should be . Tried my friends out , great pictures but even he admitted it was over priced . Gonna hold onto the 50d till price come down next year . It takes great pictures as well . I don't need the movie mode , that's what my video camera for . I wish you could buy the camera without the movie mode . I feel like I'm paying for something I don't want . . . . . . . . . . .


• 069 4  I have three Canon Cameras . I started with a 30D and I still have it to use as my version of a point and shoot , then when I got serious I bought a 1D Mark III and was blown away by the speed , flexibility and quality it offers . I still use that camera for sports and outdoor photography . Then I decided to get a portrait camera and although I was tempted to spend the big bucks and get a 1DS III , this camera came out with that same big sensor AND video , which the 1DSIII doesn't even have . Well , the story gets better and better the more I shoot with this camera . The resolution is incredible , the exposure and saturation are consistently excellent and the lack of noise at high ISO is amazing . I have a large format 13x19 printer that I print shots taken from this camera with and all I can say is WOW . When I can print these shots that big and still be amazed at the quality of the picture , that's when I really get excited about this camera . I can shoot at ISO800 and still consider the pictures excellent . I was reminded of how special that is the other day when I had my 1D Mark III and took it indoors at an event , and ran it at ISO800 . The noise was so noticeable and I had to really bump up the noise filters during post-processing , but not with the 5D Mark II . I also love the ability to crop down on images much farther than any other camera I have and still have a tack-sharp image that can be printed large format . This is easily my favorite camera . Seriously , the 1D Mark III only comes out for fast action outdoor shooting now . Get one and you'll be so happy you did !
• 009 4  The 5d Mark II is a very sturdy pro camera . The original 5d was the camera of choice for many full-time National Geographic photographers because of its outstanding image quality coupled with a small portable body . For the Mark II , Canon has added weather sealing , a host of dust reduction features , an expanded ISO range , and increased resolution ( no small feat ) , along with a handful of other features . ISO 5000 on the Mark II is comparable to ISO 1600 on the original 5d , in my opinion . This camera is a workhorse for anyone who needs pro camera features coupled with portability . Ideal for hikers or the traveling photographer . Black dot issue ? 100% fixed with a recent firmware update from Canon . This camera is , for me , more intuitive to use than the D700 and the pro features are worth the extra money over the EOS 50d . An 8gb flashcard will hold about 250 RAW photos .
• 044 4  I sold a Leica M6 with 2 lenses to purchase the Canon 5D Mk II after much research . I also own a Canon 30D and an SD780 IS Elph . After reading all the reviews , I could not deter the allure of this amazing camera . Sure , there are a few pro cameras that may rank better in 1 or 2 areas , but overall , nothing exceeds the quality and value of this camera for the money . I've been a serious hobbyist from over 40 years and have won a few competitions as well had a number of photos published throughout the years . I don't consider myself an artist , but rather a street photographer with an eye for the artistic . While I've yet to explore each an every facet of this amazing camera , I've taken well over 800 photos in the past 2 weeks and each one has been of outstanding quality ( despite the fact that some were badly framed by me ! ) . The photos , all shot in RAW , have such detailed resolution , I am constantly amazed . I heartily recommend this camera to any serious photographer who is not already heavily invested in another brand .
• 045 4  This is the camera I did not need , but I had to have it . What a fabulous camera ! This was a gift to myself for my 76th birthday and it far exceeds my high expectations . While not an expert on the computer , I find this camera with the menu functions very easy to program . The still images are incredible and I can't wait to try the video . After studying hundreds of reviews and magazine articles on various cameras , for me , it all boiled down to the Canon 5D Mark II . I wasn't wrong . The function buttons are logically placed , easy to use and clearly identified . The features are amazing . The only negative is I would have preferred a different location for the on / of switch but it is not that much of an issue . Canon's L lenses with this body make a wonderful package . My son is a professional photographer and uses Nikon products . He wanted me to go Nikon so we could share lenes but I just couldn't pass up this camera . Now look who is jealous !
• 057 4  I have owned the Canon 5D Mark II for over two months now and it is an amazing camera body . The HD video is fantastic . Pros : Amazing low light capabilities . Simple and intuitive menu system . Comfortable ergonomic design . Light weight . Film quality 1080P HD video . Breathtaking quality resolution . Cons : Uber expensive . Subpar autofocusing . Full frame sensor will always have numberous ' hot ' pixels . Hot pixels show up in HD video and are impossible to remove without expensive post processing software . Need expensive L series lenses to really capture great images . Huge RAW files take up tons of hard drive space and require a bleeding edge workstation to edit in an efficient manner . Uber expensive .
• 060 4  An amazing camera when paired with L glass . Image quality and menu functions are much better than the 1Ds MkII and 1D MkII . I would trade the video function for better weather proofing and more fps .
• 077 4  As far as 20mp and up cameras go this one is a steal at its price . It's real price , not what you are being gouged on the net for . Wait for Amazon to have it in stock don't buy the kit for more than 3499 . the AF system and metering system are extremely outdated . I understand they left this old system in here so it would not totally eclipse the 1dsMKIII but Nikon is putting top notch 3D matrix metering in all of their cameras and fast AF systems as well . This is a bit of a let down . Beyond that the images are resolved well by the processor , better use good glass , and HIGH ISO is handled almost as well as the D3 and D700 which is impressive seeing has how the pixels are much smaller to fit more on the sensor . I think this camera will be a good launching point for future models from Canon and definitely raises the bar drastically for their pro line . If you are already well invested into Canon glass go for it . If you want a high res camera that does HD video as well this one blows the D90 out of the water .
• 081 4  What can I say that others haven't ? For years I shot film using Fuji Velvia for landscapes and flowers . It had a rich texture and creamy-smooth color transitions that made it a very special film . When I converted to digital , I was a little disappointed to find that my Rebel XTI didn't seem to have that special feel to the images that I got with film . Oh , it took nice photos , but I always felt something was missing . Well , the 5DMKII is the solution to that problem . The image quality is simply amazing . The buttery-smooth color transitions , the rich texture , and that feel are all back . These are the things that matter to me , and the reason to go with a full-frame camera . The large , bright viewfinder , the crystal-clear LCD screen , the ridiculously-good high ISO performance , the 1080p HD video and the dozens of other features are all nice , but if image quality is the most important thing to you , than this is your camera . If it's good enough to be the first digital camera to be used for the official presidential portrait , it's good enough for me . Oh , and if all you have are cheap lenses , get ready for major disappointment . You'll need a stable of those fancy red-ringed models with the L in the name , or something very close to those , to see the full potential of the 21 megapixel sensor . But , hey . You're not looking at this camera because you're on a tight budget now , are you ? Invest in some good glass and you'll fall in love with this thing .
• 111 4  This is a great camera . The buttons can be a bit confusing , but I'm just getting use to them . The camera feels good in my hands - solid , substantial . The LCD on the back of the camera is large , bright , and clear . The various menus make life easier . I highly recommend this product . I've been using a Canon T90 film SLR since 1986 and if the 5D Mark II performs half as well I'll be delighted .
• 113 4  I will try and add to the review pool by pointing out the other things that have not been expressed . I will use a comparison : Nikon . I bought the Canon Eos 5D MkII because I got tired of waiting for Nikon to come out with a full-frame body that has at least 20 megapixels , and is reasonably-priced . All that Nikon has at this level are full-frame bodies with only 12 megapixels . Come on ! Film's equivalent = 20 to 36 megapixels , not half , which is 12 . I don't like being nickel-and-dimed in the megapixel department year after year . The difference between a Canon vs . the comparable Nikon body is that the Nikon's brain can adjust the contrast automatically . The Canon body will record what it sees , and you tweak it as a RAW file . That's why a D90 ' s colors looks so much more vivid right out of the camera . Nikon's jpeg images are stunning , while Canon's jpegs are a little drab by comparison . And the Canon . . . well , again , the images have to be worked up in a digital darkroom to look just as vivid , or low-key or whatever you want to express . Did you know that you can use Nikon , Pentax K-mount , M39 and M42 - mount lenses on your Canon ? Yes . Search for them here at Amazon.com , or the web ! The 5D Mark II shutter is quieter than most Nikon dslr's . Is the Canon 5D MkII equal to the Nikon D3X ? Not even close . The 24.5 megapixel D3X is years ahead of its time . The 5D MkII cannot hold a candle to the D3X in terms of overall image quality . Besides , who's got $7000 + laying around ?
• 118 4  I have had numerous Canon dSLRs over the years such as the 20D , 40D , Mark IIDs and rebel . I looked forward to the 5D Mark II with much anticipation and got one of the first ones . It has not lived up to my expectations . If I take several shots in a row I get an error . I suspect it will be fixed with a firmware update , but not before it interrupted a couple photo sessions and some pretty good shots . Its video is noisy and more of a gimmick than a worthy enhancement . I would avoid this particular model - maybe they will get it right with their next iteration .
• 124 4  I'm doing a large scale documentation project photographing objects on a copy stand . Was pretty sure I was going to use Nikon bodies as thats what I'm familiar with . I tested several bodies and it came down to a 5d MkII or a D3 . I'vee never been a pixel peeper but it was clear that that the added resolution with the 5D made a big difference and it was too ignore . Also it comes with the software you need to tether the camera which is nice . My biggest complaint is the ergonomics , big and clunky . Luckily I don't have to handle too much , because I definitely think Nikons are better in this regard . Also Canon's RAW format is less proprietary than Nikon's which does make a big difference to me .
• 131 4  basically a great upgrade camera . it's has a 35mm sensor size , what more could you ask for ? it wouldn't be worth getting a new body if it's still an APS-C cropped sensor . just the sensor size of the 5D MkII is worth the upgrade .
• 144 4  I received this camera on December 1st and have taken almost 500 photos so far . A mixed blend of portraits , scenics , novalty and still life - all are amazing . I've used the cameras fully automatic setting - and when set to A - am most impressed with the ISO range and how little noise is produced at high numbers . I've been a happy owner of a 5D for some time , and the upgrade to the Mark II is worth the money - believe it !
• 154 4  Well just bought the 5d mark II and brought it back . I had a old 5d and it's about the same with a few added features , in my opinion , not worth the heafty price tag . autofocus is not the best , still has banding issues , which I had with the old 5d . I've been 100% canon for a long time , But now thinking of selling the flashes and len's and going nikon . .
• 158 4  Now that the new Rebel T1 is out and some of the features of the Mark II , such as video ( yes 720p only ) and low light capability have trickled down , that makes my choice a little more difficult as an interested hobbyist . While I do understand that the new Rebel doesn't have the same sensor ( and what that means ) , I ask myself if the additional weight of the Mark II will bother me . Obviously , that is a subjective factor , but I'd be interested in opinion from those who have purchased the Mark II or the T1 ( just out for a few days , so there may not be many of you out there yet ) . The new Nikon 5000D muddies the waters even more . Of course , which camera to buy is not a REAL problem , it's a luxury problem . Any commentary on similar choice welcome .
• 160 4  Don't get me wrong here , this is a powerhouse of a DSLR and kicks butt on Nikon . I also own a 20D & 5D along with my new 5D Mark II . It would be great if I could use the batteries from the 20D & 5D in the 5D Mark II
• 164 4  I purchased this Canon as a replacement to my 20D . Buyer Beware and go with the Nikon ! ! Nikon's are much more reliable for focusing and metering . I find the focus system less accurate than my 20D and am completely disappointed with this product . I wanted to stay in the Canon family as I have been a fan for years , but this product has completely changed my mind ! Yes the Mark II has the bells and whistles , but if your pictures are soft they are worthless !
• 165 4  Better body , good software , so so video , for good picture quality you need only new mark II lenses , like 85mm 1.2 II , 24mm 1.4 II or new zeiss manual lenses . The old 5d picture quality was much better .


• 101 4  There's been enough reviews on this camera so this isn't a camera review it concerns sending my new 5D Mark 2 in for cleaning . Canon no longer cleans the sensor , mirror , or focus screen for free if it's still under warranty . They told me they changed that and it is now $100 for cleaning . The California center is less friendly then the east coast center . The main dial on top of the camera , the one for manual , AP , etc was loose as well . They wouldn't tighten it unless I paid for the cleaning , they also wanted to replace the focus screen and wanted 200 $ to do that . The focus screen cost 40 $ and can be purchased through a number of qualified dealers and changed out by yourself in 10 mins . I've dealt with Canon for years and it used to be that the service center charged nominal fees if anything at all , all that has changed . It's a wonderful product but be careful if you need to send it in , even if it is under warranty expect a bill . Call them first so you know what to expect . Greg Lewandowski
• 040 4  This camera is amazing . I've been a photographer for 15 years and I feel like I finally have the camera of my dreams . Beautiful low light photography , great full frame sensor . . . and as a very valuable bonus , HD video . I didn't think I'd use the video much but WOW , even my brother in law ( who does video ) was blown away with it's quality . I plan on using this camera till the shutter dies .
• 072 4  I've had this camera since December and it is better than I thought it will be . I read the reviews before I bought in which people complained about the focus . It is true that you need to be much more careful about focus with this camera ( I came from a 20D . ) It's not that there's anything wrong with the camera . To the contrary , it's that the detail is so good that your focus mistakes show up more . Use good lenses , use good technique and the results you get will amaze you .
• 073 4  I won't write a long review because others have obviously already done that on here . After using this camera for professional video shoots and photo shoots , I have to say I've never once been let down . I was disappointed that the video mode didn't allow full functionality , but now that Canon has updated the firmware to fix that problem , this is the ultimate camera for shooting film-like movies and commercial projects on a small budget . Sure there are better cameras out there , but probably not many that can shoot in low light in video mode and still get a great image . In other words , if you're a photographer , get this camera . . . if you're a film maker who doesn't have 40k for a red one , get this camera .
• 088 4  I just received my 5D Mk2 less than two weeks ago . I have ran it through probably 2000 actuations and just today noticed a very obvious dead pixel . I have not exposed it to any harsh conditions , although I was hoping to be able to . I am sending it back for an exchange but I am very disappointed . I will re-review when I receive the replacement . I've been putting this off and finally jumped to get this camera and just don't know how to feel . I feel at bit cheated at this point , but we'll see .
• 104 4  I've had it for a couple of weeks now and I love it . It shoots in super low light ! It does everything it claims to do . The picture is really what makes it worth it . It simply looks amazing . It has so much depth it almost looks 3D ! No problems at all . No complaints . I highly recommend it !
• 105 4  I's give this camera ten stars if I could ! I LOVE it . See detailed reviews at sites like dpreview.com since there isn't enough space to go into it here . Suffice it to say , this is the camera we've been asking for since the D30 came out .
• 117 4  I love this camera , but I was coming up from a xsi . . . my sigma 17 70 2.8 dosen't work with the 5D , and that was kinda sad for cause i have to buy a new wide angle . and I LOVE my 17 70 . . . . I can't afford the L glass so if you are like me and are looking for sigma lens that fit the 5D look for ex lens . . . but I LOVE the 5D mark 2
• 136 4  Hi , I love the pictures this produces but the transfer hangs when connecting the cmaera to the computer . I have updated the fireware , tried different cards and I have 3 computers ; it does the same thing with all of them etc I am using a 16gb extreme iv card from sandisk and that works fine in a media card reader . Anyone else seen this issue ? Chris


• 106 4  I've handled this camera and have one arriving in the morning . I've owned a 20D and a 5D classic . I was happy with both of them . The 5D in particular . There is a very detailed review that is well organized and like him , I will probably update this later . The product improvements are right in line with what I was looking for in improvements from the superb classic 5D . Just be careful where you buy it . As another reviewer has noted , the prices some retailers are advertising are outrageous . The Canon suggested price is the $2,695 for the body . For the Body plus the 24 - 105 kit lens , an L f / 4 , the priceis $3,495 . There is an advertiser who is claiming the street price is 4,495 . That does not speak well of Amazon's merchant program which can be very good . So buy one from a good seller , enjoy it and come back and write a good review . But don't get screwed on price by this disreputable people . A neutral comment on the 5D specs saying that it's lightweight . That's a relative question . Compared to the 1D series , it is relatively light . Compared to the classic Nikon F , the Olympus SLRs , etc . it is not light . It's more on a par with the later series of Nikon pro cameras . You won't find this a burden if you're 25 years old . You will tolerate it with some pleasure given the quality of the image . I usually use the 24 - 70 and 16 - 35 f / 2.8 . That's a lot more than it seems when you've got it for a full day . It is light for a full-frame DSLR . No complaints .
• 084 4  An amazing full frame digital slr . If you are reading this list you should know about this camera . Go body only unless you find a great deal on the kit lens , which can be sold for a profit : )
• 100 4  I love the 5dmkii ! If you use it you'll love it too . Just buy the thing and start shooting . Get some decent glass like the 24 - 70mm and you're off to the races . Remember it's not about the camera . . . it's about what's in your head . That's what Helmut Newton would say !
• 140 4  I will not comment on the camera , other to say I am in the market to buy one . However , with a Amazon Marketplace price of 3600.00 ( for a 2600.00 camera ) it'll be a cold day in you know where before I buy it . What gives ?
• 147 4  To date all of Canon's full frame DLSR bodies suffer from the same problem . All the focus points are too centrally clumped into the middle 30% of the scene . No focus points are any where near the classic 1 / 3 frame composition subject locations . Sure you can crop to a pleasing composition , but you'll be throwing away many many pixels . If you're a point and shoot bulls eyeing bozo you'll love this camera , otherwise avoid it and wait until Canon fixes the fatal flaw .


• 126 4  I am happy with the 5D mark 11 . But I have on going issues . The screen decides to shut off by it's self when reviewing photos . It has frozen and then shuts off.This is when I am using the camera . I hate the idea of a video in the camera . Canon should have focused on the camera and not at all on video . I have all Canon due to investing in lens . Unsure if Nikon is better . My partner uses Nikon D3 . He loves it . And craps on mine all the time . But over all Canon should have did more testing and spent more time and money on this Camera . And forget a video . Over all I would say it's a B - camera . I hate to say I like and trust my 50D more . I took the 50D to Argentina . It had no issues at over 10,000 shots and nearly a month from cold to jungles . But of course the 50D has major disadvantages over the 5D . Maybe step up to 1D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . that's a big jump .
• 094 4  Great upgrade to my Canon 20D . The full-frame is awesome and the video recording is spectacular . However , the on-camera mic is quite awful . But it's still a great upgrade overall .


• 128 4  The previous reviewer was right B & H photo did have the camera in stock . They do not have the body only in stock . They only have the kit that comes with the 28 - 105 IS L series lens . I ordered it today with overnight shipping and it will be here by Wednesday ! Just in time for Christmas .
• 139 4  for anyone looking to get this camera they know exactly what they want and what they are getting , in one sentence , this camera is superb in every way .


• 143 4  I pre-ordered a Canon 5D2 on September 17 . I emailed Amazon on October 25 asking about the camera's ETA . Amazon replied with an apology and stated that they would upgrade my shipping to next day when the camera was received by Amazon and was ready to ship . I clicked the link on their email saying that I was satisfied and that the issue was resolved . Around a month later I received an email from Amazon stating that my order had been removed by Amazon because I had not responded to an email of October 18 stating that I had to give permission for the order delay or my order would be removed . I NEVER GOT THAT EMAIL ! So they removed my order because I never responded to an email WHICH I NEVER RECEIVED ! But notice that my email of Oct 25 was answered by Amazon with that apology and quick ship assurance which I approved of by clicking their acceptance link that the problem was resolved . When I spoke to Amazon customer service , they would not reinstate my order . SO , they effectively made me put my name at the bottom of another merchant's waiting list two months after I had ordered the camera from Amazon . If they cared about my business , they would have done right by me . . . but they don't care . This can happen to ANY Amazon customer at any time . Rest assured that B & H would NEVER do this to one of their customers , and that THEIR customer service doesn't consist of robots with heavy accents .
• 062 4  You should go to dpreview to get a very detailed review since my opinion will be absolutely short and concise . I got the so popular 5D2 some months ago , maybe I was one of the first to pick it up at adorama store in NYC . I had the chance to try it under very differnet lignting conditions and let me tell you this is one of the best cameras at low light ever I can shot printable photos even at Iso 6400 with no lose on quality , the noise is simply too low to be considered , same opinion I have on video quality , the 5D2 rocks , the DOF is fantastic when you use fast lenses , like the 85mm f1.8 , however everything is not perfect , my only two gripes , are the poor battery life and the old AF system . . . thats all . Maybe you wanna see a personal noise test with samples at FS . Check it out on the link below .
• 095 4  This review is from : Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF 24 - 105mm f / 4 L IS USM Lens ( Electronics ) LOVE THIS CAMERA . IS EVERYTHING I THOUGHT IT WOULD BE AND MUCH MORE . MY IMAGES ARE SPECTACULAR EVERYWHERE I GO , AND IT IS SO EASY AFTER HAVING MY BEGINNING TRAINING IN A CANON REBEL XTI WHICH I GOT YEARS AGO . 4105 LENS IS AWESOME . AND IT CAME TO MY DOOR IN LITTLE TOWN MIDDLE OF NOWHERE IN 21 HOURS AFTER I ORDERED IT . IF YOU DO ORDER A CAMERA FROM AMAZON AND THEY GIVE YOU A LIST OF ACCESSORIES , BE CERTAIN THEY FIT THE SIZE OF YOUR LENS . I BOUGHT A LENS THAT WAS OE THE LIST AND IT WAS WRONG SIZE DUE TO MY IGNORANCE AND SPPED OF ORDERING . I HAD ORDERED A 7 D FROM ANOTHER CAMERA DISTRIBUTOR AND SENT IT BACK AFTER 2 DAYS . AND ORDERED THIS ONE FROM AMAZON BECAUSE THEY WERE SO SPEEDY AND I HAD TO LEAVE ON TRIP IN TWO DAYS . SO HAD GREAT PHOTO TRIP OVER 2400 PHOTOS IN 3 WEEKS EVEN WITHOUT MY UV FILTER .
• 096 4  LOVE THIS CAMERA . IS EVERYTHING I THOUGHT IT WOULD BE AND MUCH MORE . MY IMAGES ARE SPECTACULAR EVERYWHERE I GO , AND IT IS SO EASY AFTER HAVING MY BEGINNING TRAINING IN A CANON REBEL XTI WHICH I GOT YEARS AGO . 4105 LENS IS AWESOME . AND IT CAME TO MY DOOR IN LITTLE TOWN MIDDLE OF NOWHERE IN 21 HOURS AFTER I ORDERED IT . IF YOU DO ORDER A CAMERA FROM AMAZON AND THEY GIVE YOU A LIST OF ACCESSORIES , BE CERTAIN THEY FIT THE SIZE OF YOUR LENS . I BOUGHT A LENS THAT WAS OE THE LIST AND IT WAS WRONG SIZE DUE TO MY IGNORANCE AND SPPED OF ORDERING . I HAD ORDERED A 7 D FROM ANOTHER CAMERA DISTRIBUTOR AND SENT IT BACK AFTER 2 DAYS . AND ORDERED THIS ONE FROM AMAZON BECAUSE THEY WERE SO SPEEDY AND I HAD TO LEAVE ON TRIP IN TWO DAYS . SO HAD GREAT PHOTO TRIP OVER 2400 PHOTOS IN 3 WEEKS EVEN WITHOUT MY UV FILTER .


• 153 4  This is arguably the best camera currently available . But you can get it anywhere else for $2,699 - - I don't know what game Amazon is playing overcharging by nearly $1,000 , but my query to them a week ago received a stupid reply and obviously no effort to correct this downright bogus price . Shame on you , Amazon !
• 116 4  This is a great camera which I will get from Amazon as soon as it is available directly from Amazon at the correct price - the list price is $2700 and these third party sellers are charging way too much !
• 130 4  ordered by Amazon direct - perfect ! All in time . Camera is a blast , exceeds my expectations !
• 161 4  This camera list for $2699 from Canon . I hope no one is stupid enough or desperate enough to pay the price listed on your site . I can not believe that Amazon is listing the camera for this price .


• Several months have passed and the initial storm over the new 5D mark II has passed . . . And the retail price of the camera has settled at around $2,7000 . ( body only ) , about $250 more then the initial retail price announced before the release of the camera . And , so you see , the price gouging continues though it's comparatively modest in the case of most reputable retailers . I doubt that the price of the camera will drop to it's original retail price until demand completely falls off and a total end of back orders comes about which may take more then a year . Note : ( body only ) Amazon price is 2,699 with super saver shipping and after tax ( NY ) totals $2,914.92 . . . ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` I must admit to have placed an ordered for a 5D Mark II recently , myself . For the following reasons ; ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` 1 ) The black dot phenomenon appears to have been resolved during manufacturing before shipping . ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` 2 ) While some owners of the original 5D feel the Mark II's image isn't as fine as the originals ' , tests by periodicals are reporting that image quality is even better then that of the 1Ds Mark III , ( of course there remain many reasons why the 1Ds is a superior camera , for me , most of all the advanced AF and metering system ) . ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` 3 ) With all the Canon equipment I have besides camera bodies it's impractical to switch over to Nikon besides Zeiss prime lenses for example are beginning to become available for Canon EOS cameras with EF bayonet mounts . ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` 4 ) A use for a 21.1 megapixal camera . ( note : Eight megapixal is more then fine for most photo work . But for oversize prints and a lot of playing with RAW images a larger megapixal camera is desirable . And , for commercial reproduction , four color offset litho printing for example , at least a 12 megapixal image is required , with a need for even greater megapixil images for high quality and large to huge reproductions ) . ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` 5 ) My use for a 21.1 camera dose note require AF and in camera metering , I've other cameras for such work ( I'm sure the 5D Mark II's AF and meter are probably just fine , but I've become accustomed to working with a 1D and 1Ds and the AF and metering systems of the lesser Cannon camera models , to me seem totally inadequate now ) . 6 ) Price ; to be honest I can't afford the 1Ds Mark III at present but I can afford the 5D Mark II , now . . . ! ( I have a feeling that a 1Ds Mark IV is on the horizon with it's image quality tweaked at least to equal the 5D Mark II's or more likely surpass it . I think I may wait for it before purchasing another 1Ds ) . ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ For the uses I have in mind the only real draw-back for me is that the 5D Mark II must be run on batteries , a Canon BG-EG Battery Grip is going to be a must have with extra sets batteries at the ready . ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` addendum 4 / 6 / 09 : I learned of the Canon ACK-E6AC Adapter Kit for the 5D Mark II , from members of Canon Forums and have ordered this AC adapter . This adapter removes the last vestiges of reservation I had , had when I first considered purchasing a 5D Mark II . Like with 1D and 1Ds cameras , this adapter allows the 5D Mark II to be powered by AC power , which saves costly batteries during long hours of in studio work while using a tripod and also during the long hours when the camera is connected to a computer for downloads , etc . ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ By the way , the superior picture quality as reported by periodical reviews is true , at least my own use of the camera would in my opinion suggest it to be so . ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ At this point if it were possible I'd change my star rating of the camera to a four and a half or maybe even a five . Best Wish's . . . .
• 025 4  I do own other p & s cameras besides Canon but admit to only owning Canon DSLRs ; I'm kind of tied into the Canon lenses at this point . I tried an Olympus as that was the brand I use for film , but was not at all happy with their DSLR image quality . As for Canon , I have owned the Rebel 300 , 20d and 40d . The 40d is a great camera and quite usable for the kind of photography I enjoy which is mostly landscape . I decided to take the plunge and go for a full frame camera despite the price . I have only used the 5d II about 4 times so far and only twice with the 40d for comparison , but feel pretty confident I can report on the differences . The 2 cameras are nearly identical in color space and dynamic range not to mention resolution per pixel . In other words if the image pixel count is the same on both cameras , you would be hard pressed to tell which camera took the picture . The 5d II just has more pixels . The 5d II trumps the 40d in several other areas too . * First is the high ISO range ; I am very happy with 800 - 1600 ISO images and I use to only like to settle for ISO 100 . * The 24 - 105L lens becomes a fantastic walk around lens because of the 21mp sensor , images can easily be cropped tight to a distant subject . * My 17 - 40L is now a true wide angle lens ! * Shadows at low ISOs have more depth than the 40d . * Lens micro adjustments can make autofocus nearly perfect . My 70 - 300 f5.6 back focuses on both bodies , but I was able to easily correct the issue on the 5d II . I still have to manually adjust on the 40d . * The back screen is much more usable ; I even started using live view mode for some shots . * Because of the resolution and dynamic range RAW images are quite flexible so I don't have to take as many variations . * Multiple resolutions to choose from even in RAW . * Better weather sealing is comforting as I do take the camera to places where it is misty and damp . * I've taken a couple of test movies which look lovely . I just don't see myself using this feature too often . There is always room for improvement so here is my wish list for the mark III . * An internal flash for filling in shadows . * Frame rate of 5 / sec would be nice even though I rarely need it . * The ability to select the range for the auto ISO feature ; I'd love to be able to limit the range to 200 - 800 for certain situations . * A pivoting back display is something that I miss from my old Nikon point and shoot cameras . It's really useful when shooting macros or for events where your shooting over people's heads .
• 037 4  Canon really did hit a homerun with this camera . At first I had zero interest in the camera due to owning a 1D III . But then I got my hands on a few of them and was blown away . The ISO is a stop or two better than the 1D III , which is enough of a selling point for me . Although I do dread the HUGE raw file sizes , it is nice that you can crop down and still retain a ton of detail . This camera is not the fastest as far as FPS , but if you know how to anticipate shots you will be ok . The image quality is fantistic . very little post processing . Even less than the 1D III ! There is talk about the black dot issues , but it only occurs in certain situations and is a very small thing and has been blown out of proportion . I have had this camera for 2 weeks and put over 5000 shots on it . My 1d III is now collecting dust ! If you want truly get images , attach some L primes to this bad boy and see what it can do for you !
• 061 4  Bought the 5d Mark II earlier this year . I'm a non-professional and first time full frame user . I've used a variety of cameras but not Nikon or Canon . I've EF lenses and have been using the camera for portraiture and scenic , in city , country , during winter and summer and am thrilled with the results ( the enlargements are great ) . The movie function wasn't an issue for me as , although I've tried it with good results , I could've done without it . It's a little on the heavy side with the distance lenses which took a bit of getting accustomed to . No comment on price as , in my opinion , you often get what you pay for and I'm totally pleased . I work a lot in manual but I've not had any problem with the autofocus either . However , I did find it a little complicated at first - my problem not the mark II's .
• 068 4  I have done photography in the past with High Quality Canon film cameras and lenses for magazines . I decided to get back into photography and purchase the Canon D5 Mark ll . I found the camera Large , Heavy , Over Priced , and the Quality of the photos taken at 21.1 mega pix was poor and darker than at a normal photo would be taken in auto mode . My 10year old Sony 5.0 mega pix takes better photos.This Camera is not for a person that is a beginner or not knowledgeable in Photography . The HD video is good quality , however unless you use a Tripod or compensating lense , the video is shakey on playback . I was very disappointed in this camera .
• 150 4  After several years of reliable service from my old Canon EOS Rebel body , I was ready to move up to a pro level body when the 5D Mk II came out . I was one of the first photographers on Maui to buy the Mk II and I was REALLY looking forward to the overall measurably better picture quality promised by Canon and the indie reviews . After a couple of months of testing and comparisons with my old Canon body , I was VERY disappointed with the 5D MkII's output : EVERY PHOTO I TOOK , regardless of mode ( AF and MF ) , turned out to be poorly focused , so much so that I couldn't even compensate for it in Photoshop . MY old Rebel EOS body ( less than half the body-only price ) produces much CLEARER images . I went back to using the older body and am returning the 5D MkII to the retailer for either a trade-in or heavy service work to correct whatever the problem is with the optics . My advice : If you absolutely MUST have one of these beasts , test drive it by viewing a few full-size images on-screen . You may be sorry otherwise .
• 156 4  As a rule I work with a Canon 1D and 1Ds . I've long had my eye on the 5D , though have purchased the Rebel XTi and XSi as in the field back-up cameras and for assistants to use . I remember the same rush with price gouging by Amazon and other distributers when the XTi and XSi first became available ; much less noticeable because they are lower priced cameras . It is obvious to me , at least , that the presence of price gouging taking place now over the Canon 5D is in part due to the manufacturers marketing stratagem . Such stratagem , however , may under the present economic conditions seriously back-fire . I was considering purchasing a 5D Mark II to add to my arsenal of equipment , but what about the black spot issue , surfacing reports by new owners that the 5D Mark II picture quality is not equal to that of the original 5D even with the greater megapixel count , and adding a marginally usable video capability to what purpose ? I've growing doubts about the 5D Mark II besides a profound dislike for such marketing stratagems that creates superficial demand etc . and it appears others share the same concerns . The 5D is a major product line for Canon and I'd hate to see it fail but I and others no doubt , are beginning to think Nikon ! ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` Addendum ( 2 / 2 / 09 ) : Several months have passed and the initial storm over the new 5D mark II has passed . . . And the retail price of the camera has settled at around $2,7000 . ( body only ) , about $250 more then the initial retail price announced before the release of the camera . And , so you see , the price gouging continues though it's comparatively modest in the case of most reputable retailers . I doubt that the price of the camera will drop to it's original retail price until demand completely falls off and a total end of back orders comes about which may take more then a year . Note : ( body only ) Amazon price is 2,699 with super saver shipping and after tax ( NY ) totals $2,914.92 . . . ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` I must admit to have placed an ordered for a 5D Mark II recently , myself . For the following reasons ; ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` 1 ) The black dot phenomenon appears to have been resolved during manufacturing before shipping . ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` 2 ) While some owners of the original 5D feel the Mark II's image isn't as fine as the originals ' , tests by periodicals are reporting that image quality is even better then that of the 1Ds Mark III , ( of course there remain many reasons why the 1Ds is a superior camera , for me , most of all the advanced AF and metering system ) . ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` 3 ) With all the Canon equipment I have besides camera bodies it's impractical to switch over to Nikon besides Zeiss prime lenses for example are beginning to become available for Canon EOS cameras with EF bayonet mounts . ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` 4 ) A use for a 21.1 megapixal camera . ( note : Eight megapixal is more then fine for most photo work . But for oversize prints and a lot of playing with RAW images a larger megapixal camera is desirable . And , for commercial reproduction , four color offset litho printing for example , at least a 12 megapixal image is required , with a need for even greater megapixil images for high quality and large to huge reproductions ) . ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` 5 ) My use for a 21.1 camera dose note require AF and in camera metering , I've other cameras for such work ( I'm sure the 5D Mark II's AF and meter are probably just fine , but I've become accustomed to working with a 1D and 1Ds and the AF and metering systems of the lesser Cannon camera models , to me seem totally inadequate now ) . 6 ) Price ; to be honest I can't afford the 1Ds Mark III at present but I can afford the 5D Mark II , now . . . ! ( I have a feeling that a 1Ds Mark IV is on the horizon with it's image quality tweaked at least to equal the 5D Mark II's or more likely surpass it . I think I may wait for it before purchasing another 1Ds ) . ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ For the uses I have in mind the only real draw-back for me is that the 5D Mark II must be run on batteries , a Canon BG-EG Battery Grip is going to be a must have with extra sets batteries at the ready . ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` ` addendum 4 / 6 / 09 : I learned of the Canon ACK-E6AC Adapter Kit for the 5D Mark II , from members of Canon Forums and have ordered this AC adapter . This adapter removes the last vestiges of reservation I had , had when I first considered purchasing a 5D Mark II . Like with 1D and 1Ds cameras , this adapter allows the 5D Mark II to be powered by AC power , which saves costly batteries during long hours of in studio work while using a tripod and also during the long hours when the camera is connected to a computer for downloads , etc . ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ By the way , the superior picture quality as reported by periodical reviews is true , at least my own use of the camera would in my opinion suggest it to be so . ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ At this point if it were possible I'd change my star rating of the camera to a four and a half or maybe even a five . Best Wish's . . . .
• 157 4  My D5 Mark II with EF 24 - 105mm f / 4 L IS USM had a focusing problem in Auto and manual modes I thought maybe I was missing a setting or something , but after many dozens of test pics and several readings of the manual I can promise you that : indoors or out , zoomed in or out , high F or low , AF or Manual , this camera couldn't take a clear picture . Every image is slightly out of focus . Canon support offered to repair it but can't exchange for new . Pavillion is giving me an exchange . There are too many good reviews to say it's the design . Must be quality control . I'll let you know how it goes .