Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II: Review

Posted to Digital SLR 2009-05-21

Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II Review:

If you are a professional looking for the latest in digital photography, then the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II may be for you. It is a professional-grade digital SLR camera that boasts a 16.7 megapixel sensor. It takes advantage of its ability to shoot very high-resolution images, as it fully supports the RAW file format. Also, this camera is different than other digital SLRs in that it contains a 35mm sensor that shoots the entire frame range that a traditional 35mm film camera would. So if you use a 10mm fisheye lens on this camera, it will look exactly like it would on a 35mm camera, with no focal length multiplier.

A camera this powerful is a hefty piece of hardware, weighing in at 2 lbs 10 oz (1.2 kg) and measuring a near-cubic 8-in x 8-in x 7.5-in. The size is comparable to that of other DSLR cameras. As mentioned before, this camera does support RAW format, but it also supports traditional JPEG. It is studio-ready with the option to add a wireless TTL flash. When shooting out of the studio, the camera's 2-inch LCD monitor is large enough to review images immediately after shooting. This particular model is also compatible with all Canon EF lenses, giving you maximum flexibility.

Rating:

4.6 out of 5

Features

Now let's explore the nitty-gritty features. Image resolution maxes out at 4992 x 3328 pixels. The shutter durability is rated at 200,000 cycles and can handle speeds from 1/8000 to 30 seconds. There is also has a "bulb mode" for unlimited exposure times. The metering system is quite advanced and can meter partial frames and up to 8 spots, in addition to traditional centered light metering. The camera is compatible with Firewire and USB. For memory storage, it uses Compact Flash I and II cards and SD/MMC cards. The camera also features a small microphone for sound recording, so you can add notes to your photos.

Performance

The Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II is all about performance. With incredible high-resolution capabilities, it can comfortably perform in a professional setting. On the other hand, it is also entirely appropriate for hobbyists. The myriad of customizable features allows it to shoot any type of challenge on the fly, whether it be nighttime, high contrast, or quick movement. Wherever you find yourself needing to shoot, this camera will not let you down. You will always be confident that the Mark II will be able to perform, even in the most difficult of conditions. The 35mm sensors also make this camera a performance star in that it will give your film camera a serious run for its money. When was the last time that a digital SLR allowed you to shoot the exact frame that you can get on 35mm?

Summary

Overall, though this camera is an expensive splurge, it is an investment as well. The photos you take with the Mark II will display an incredibly high quality and resolution. Loaded with the latest features and SLR technologies, this camera will fill your needs for years to come. The rugged magnesium body also reminds you that this is not a toy- it is a true professional tool that will allow any photographer, the hobbyist or the pro, to rise to the next level in their shooting aspirations.

Pros

Expensive but definitely worth the investment
Shutter durability of up to 200,000 cycles and integrated
16.7 megapixel sensors that allow full 35mm range captured with smaller lenses
Max resolution of 4992 x 3328 pixels and speeds from 1/8000 to 30 seconds
Perfect for the hobbyist or pro looking to upgrade their equipment

Cons

There are no cons for this product