Sunday, February 8, 2009

Professional Grade Camera - Canon EOS 50D

By Matt Ryan

Canon - known for their quality products - has released another amazing camera - the EOS 50D. Like all of their cameras, this model improves upon any of the missing features or flaws in earlier models. If you liked the 40D, you will love the 50D as it is packed with everything a photographer could need.

Like many other Canons, the EOS 50D would typically be used by intermediate to advanced users. Amateur or beginners may find this camera a bit intimidating, as there are a number of features, and functions, that most beginners do not use.

One of the most impressive improvements, on the 50D, is the 15.1-megapixel CMOS sensor. The CMOS sensor, alone, greatly increases resolution on all images produced. It also increases the ISO range that can be used. Standard ISO range, on the 50D is 100 to 3,200 but can be expanded all the way up to 12,800.

Many features have been added to the 50D, which were not included on the predecessor model, the 40D. These features include, but are not limited to vignette correction, Automatic Lighting Optimizer with three levels, adjustable noise reduction, a Creative Auto mode, a lens micro adjustment function, and face detection autofocus in Live View mode. The addition, of these features, provides consumers with a more personable experience every time they take a picture.

Canons EOS 50D also encompasses 6.3fps continuous shooting, DIGIC 4 processor, 9-point wide area AF, EOS Integrated Cleaning System, HDMI connectivity, and more. The combination of these features guarantees a high performing experience with every shot. With increased processing times and more vivid resolutions, each picture is near professional quality.

The implementation of Canons 3.0" Clear View VGA LCD with Live View mode & Face Detection Live AF provide consumers with realistic experiences. The combination of the LCD features, along with 920,000-dot display, creates an amazingly vibrant view-back. The LCD screen is also protected from scratches, dirt, and fingerprints with clear protective coating.

The body of the 50D is made from stainless steel, giving consumers an extremely durable camera. This is not to say the camera can withstand being run over by a car, but every day use, a slight bump, or the occasional fall will not harm the functionality of the camera. It will fit comfortably in the palm of your hand with measurements of 5.7-inches x 4.2-inches x 2.9-inches, and is easy to operate with easily accessible buttons and menus.

The Canon EOS 50D can be purchased for around $1,399. If you are a smart shopper, and good at finding deals, you can easily purchase this model for a couple hundred less than what is shown here. Kits, which include different lenses, are sold for much higher prices. These kits are usually sold to professional photographers, as they need advanced lenses.

Consumers who are familiar with Canon products, especially the 40D, will have no problem adjusting to this new model. The 50D is nearly the same model as the 40D, with a few technological advancements and functionality improvements. The 50D is a great addition to a photographer's collection of cameras. Whether you are taking portfolio or family pictures, you will be impressed with the high quality images this camera produces. - 17944

About the Author: