Canon SLR Reviews

Posts Tagged ‘40d’

Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21 1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera Body Only

Compact, lightweight with environmental protection, EOS 5D successor boasts a newly-designed Canon CMOS sensor, with ISO sensitivity up to 25,600 for shooting in near dark conditions. The new DIGIC 4 processor combines with the improved CMOS sensor to deliver medium format territory image quality at 3.9 frames per second, for up to 310 frames. Triggered from Live View Mode, HD video capture allows users to shoot uninterrupted at full 1080 resolution at 30fps — for amazing quality footage with outstanding levels of detail and realism. The integration of HD movie capability into a high-end 21.1-megapixel camera opens a multitude of new possibilities for photojournalists and news photographers. With its full frame CMOS sensor and outstanding ISO performance, the EOS 5D Mark II will appeal to any photographer in search of the finest camera equipment available — from studio and wedding to nature and travel photographers.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars best high ISO camera EVER!
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.

3 Stars This is a B – Camera
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.

5 Stars Love it!
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.

2 Stars Sub-par body & features
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).

4 Stars Good Image, Poor Construction
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.

Buy/More Info

Zeikos ZE CBG5DII Battery Grip for Canon 5D II

The Zeikos Power grip for the Canon EOS 5D Mark II is the perfect solution for doubling your shooting time. It holds either 2 LP-E6 Lithium-Ion Rechargeable batteries or 6 AA batteries. It has a vertical firing release with a lock and dramatically improves stability. It has a 1 year warranty.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars High-Quality, Low-Cost Alternative
Like you, I wanted a grip for my 5DII, but couldn’t stomach shelling out three times the cost of this grip for one. Since the Canon grip was out of the question for me due to it’s price, I took a chance on this grip from Zeikos, figuring I could resell it if unhappy and not lose too much. I am not disappointed and will be keeping it. It’s actually much higher quality than I expected for the price, has all the features of the Canon grip (AA battery tray, slot for battery door, all the same buttons repeated, shows all the battery information [shutter count and percentage] on the body, etc.), and actually makes the camera+grip look more like a one-piece unit since there is no additional text on the front of the grip. The only badging is on the bottom of the unit. The rubber, as mentioned in another review, is softer than the Canon grip, and I think it’s actually better – grippier and more comfortable. I had the Canon grip for my 40D and the only noticeable difference that I could see was that the wheel that you use to tighten down the grip to the body is slightly looser than the Canon. Once tightened, however, it’s very solid and does not flex or bend at all. I would highly recommend this grip to anyone who is looking for a high-quality, low-cost alternative to the Canon BG-E6 and would rather spend the savings on lenses. That’s me, and I suspect that might just be you, too.

5 Stars Less expensive then Canon product and it works GREAT!
This product works GREAT and is MUCH cheaper than the Canon product. I’m still stinging from the grip Canon sent for the 20D which never did work properly,

5 Stars Value for money
I have not used Canon Battery Grip for Canon 5D Mark II, but with this price and quality i say, its worth the buy for any canon 5d mark ii user, who is looking for a battery grip, its very light without batter, comes with a quick user guide and simple box packing!

with in 100USD its a deal not worth missing

5 Stars Indistinguishable (to me) from Canon
I very rarely purchase non canon products for my Canon EOS camera systems, but I took a chance on this one based on all the positive reviews. I was not disappointed. This Battery Grip from Zeikos is a perfect fit for my Canon 5d Mark II, and appears to have all the functionality as the Canon Grip. It is well made, and has all the controls of the Canon product.

5 Stars Da Norm’s review for Zeikos Battery Grip for Canon 5D Mark 2
I tried the Canon version, but after seeing this on Amazon, I returned the Canon grip and purchased the Zeikos instead. The only difference that I can tell is the price, the name, and some noticeable cosmetic difference. I would love to drop $250 on the Canon one, but with the new 100mm L Macro coming out, I can spend $160 on a new lens. There’s a debate on the internet that talks about buying expensive accessories for your expensive camera system. I disagree with that. You find what works for you and your budget.

Right now, Amazon is selling it for $91. Get the free shipping. It took about a week, but it’s here and in wonderful condition. Snap it on, and it works right away. The controls and the buttons function like the Canon one that I have used. I posted some pictures on the grip. I hope you can see what it looks like with the camera. Also, I picked up a replacement battery from Bargain Cell. It works just as well as the Canon version, but does not work with the battery meter. I save about $60. The hand strap I got from a local shop in Nashville, TN. I spent $30. You can find it for $5 less on Amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-media/product-gallery/B00246XB1S/ref=cm_ciu_pdp_images_all

Buy/More Info

Canon Off Camera Shoe Cord OC E3

The Off-Camera Shoe Cord OC-E3 is convenient for using your flash apart from the camera. Also allows for Remote Triggering of the flash. Perfect for All studio setups.

User Ratings and Reviews

1 Star Very Fragile
I can’t believe this thing breaks as easily as it does! I just started professionally shooting events with a D1s owned by my company. This thing has broken on me 2 out of 2 times using it. The sockets that the screws go into are made out of 1mm thick plastic! I have just rigged one with superglue, but haven’t tested it yet. It will probably last longer than the screws did.

5 Stars Works like a charm… Opteka’s version is identical and is cheaper though.
I own one of these and one of the Opteka versions. They are identical except that the Canon’s coils are tighter while the Opteka is looser. They both stretch to the identical length. Both work absolutely perfect on my Canon G10 with my 430 EXII Flashes. Upon close inspection, I bet these are made in the same freakin’ factory. Seriously. I don’t think you can go wrong with either. In fact, I’m going to cut/paste this review into my Opteka review…. Cheers!

4 Stars Great quality you pay for
I bought this to use with my 40D and 430EX II mounted to a Stroboframe Camera Flip. The quality of the cord is extremely good. The mounting points are solid for both the camera and the flash. It works well with no problems. The only complaint I have is it is so expensive!

5 Stars Happy, happy!
I’m so glad and excited with the Canon Off camera shoe. It is everything I expected and more, since I can get more creative than ever.

3 Stars Good quality, a must for portrait pictures
This is a must for portrait pictures (when using a flash), not sturdy but good quality. Works well, does what is expected to do. For the price it should have locking mechanism in both sides of the shoe cord. You better buy/have a flash bracket with locking features (like Stroboframe Flash Mount Adapter), or be aware that the flash will be locked to the cord, but not to the bracket.

Buy/More Info

2 PACK 2000mAh Battery for Canon BP 511A BP 511 BP511 Camera

Compatible with: Canon models: EOS Digital Rebel / EOS D-series 5D / 10D / 20D / 30D / 40D / D60 / D30 / 50D / 300D PowerShot Pro1 / Pro90 IS / G1 / G2 / G3 / G5 / G6 / MV-300 / MV-300i / MV-30i / MV-400i / MV-430i / MV-450i / MVXli / ZR60 / ZR65MC / ZR70MC / ZR40 / ZR45MC / ZR50MC / ZR10 / ZR20 / ZR20MC / ZR25MC / ZR30MC / Optura PI / Optura Xi / 100mc / 200MC / 20 / 10

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Aftermarket Canon batteries… Great Deal
I bought these two replacement batteries for my wife’s Canon 50D’s battery grip (which I also reviewed on Amazon). So far, it’s been working great and holds a charge for a very long time. I charged it once so far and it’s been about a month with some shooting and it’s still showing full. Interesting, it’s either lying or just a great battery. I think it’s the latter. Anyway, for something like $6 per battery, it’s a bargain.

I would recommend this battery to anyone looking for some spares to keep handy.

5 Stars yarb review
batteries shipped on time

when they arrived – I plugged one into camera and was ready to take pictures

5 Stars New life for an old camera
I couldn’t believe that these batteries were so cheap. I put off even looking at a replacement battery because of the expected, over-priced cost. Well, I was pleasantly surprised to find, purchase, and use these. They seem to be just what they say they are, a longer-lived BP-511 battery at a bargain price. They are working great so far and solved the problem I had with using the built-in flash, which just wouldn’t work. All works well now. A good deal.

5 Stars Get these!
I hated the idea of spending so much for canon batteries – these work great (maybe shorter life? but I’m making it through hours of shooting on one regardless).

Anyways, totally worth it to save the money, get two, switch ’slightly’ more often – if you’re cheap like me and not a brand snob.

No idea if it’s bad for the camera to have non-canon batteries or if the life of these things is shorter – I’ve had them about 4 months? No problems yet.

5 Stars Works great
Like many other reviewers, I was very hesitant. However, it’s for an old 300D and so I wasn’t as worried.

It works great so far. More than 200 photos and still haven’t need to re-charge.

I’ve read that with Lithium Ion, it is not good to store the batteries for a long period of time under full charge. As such, it would be a good idea to rotate the batteries.

Buy/More Info

Canon BG E2N Battery Grip for Canon 20D 30D 40D and 50D Digital SLR Cameras

Sealing material to resist water and dust / Adds a vertical shutter release / Compatible with up to 2 511A Lithium-ion battery packs or 6 AA batteries

User Ratings and Reviews

4 Stars Cannot live without it.
Just bought a new Canon 50d and bought the grip recently. I have had canon grips in the past and they prove to be invaluable. Placing 2 batteries in the grip allow shooting for all day sessions. Battery encourages portrait-style photos. Only downside is that the back focus button is not on the grip when you want to use the custom functions. Highly recommended and adds some heft to the camera..

5 Stars Gripped my 40d!
You cant go wrong with the battery grip!

Allows ease of use to shoot vertically, and increases battery life by far!

Anyone with the 20d, 30d, 40d, and 50d needs to have this product. Better grip over all.

I have the canon hand strap for mines and i can carry my camera in one hand all day with a f/2.8 16-35mm II L attached to it, without ever pulling out the neck strap and using it!

5 Stars Useful, well-thought out product but consider the weight it adds
Canon’s Battery grip is a useful, well-thought out product. As an example of how well thought-out it is, when you remove the battery compartment cover, there is a small slot in the grip to put the cover so that you don’t lose it.

The grip allows you to go so long without charging the batteries that sometimes it can be hard to remember to charge them. I have never used up the batteries in a single day. It also helps balance the camera when using a heavy lens such as the 70-200 2.8 IS. It feels good in my hand as well.

The only thing to consider before you buy it is the weight it adds. Combine the 50D, with two batteries, the grip, and the 24-70 2.8 and my wife does not like to help it for more than a few shots. Although, I won’t knock off a star for the weight because that is not a flaw in the product just something you want to consider.

By the way, the first one that I bought the portrait shutter button did not work. When it first arrives, check to ensure that the portrait shutter features work so that you don’t only possibly discover it after the return period.

4 Stars Nice Battery Grip
The BG-E2N is a nice battery grip. Honestly though, I think the other second hand grips are just as nice now. My Canon BG-E2N does not fit completely snug up against my 50D, and the Shutter button is not as accurate as the 50D shutter. Still a nice grip though. The weather guard is makes it worth it. Plus I like how it has a compartment for the original battery door so you don’t lose it.

5 Stars Excellent must have acessory for the 50D.
I could have gone generic but this at ~$150 I couldn’t pass up getting the authentic Canon accessory. Battery life is superb and the grip adds that extra touch to handling the camera. It feels like a real camera and not a toy. I swapped the functions of the ‘*’ and the ‘AF-ON’ buttons so I can use the ‘*’ to focus independently on the grip.

The grip attaches firmly to the camera with no play whatsoever. The battery compartment hides away inside so you don’t lose it.

Must have accessory.

Buy/More Info