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Olympus E 30 Review

March 16th, 2010

#5 Professional DSLR Camera

Olympus E30 12.3MP Digital SLR with Image Stabilization with 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens

 

 

The Olympus E30 is the best yet of the ever growing Olympus line. This one is easy to use, easy to hold, and one of the easiest to use in this class camera. The whole design and functionality is meant for all people who are interested in the art of photography to express themselves with this art form,no matter whether they are a processional photographer who has years of experience, or a person who is just getting started with this level of photography.

Olympus E 30 Features-

12.3 Megapixel CCD with Live MOS Imager: This will produce high resolution top quality photographs up to 30-40 inches, with beautiful clean, rich tones, and vibrant colors. The imaging speed can support 5 frames per second continuous shooting. A built in pixel mapping feature lets the cameras adjust the image pick up devices and processing functions.

11-point FastTrack Auto Focus System: The 11 Point Twin Cross auto focus and SWD lenses gives super fast auto focus capability. Hook that up with its 5 frame per second burst rate, a you will be able to easily take all the photos you want to and have them come out clear as can be.

Flip-out, Rotating 2.7″ LCD Monitor: The monitor of the Olympus E30 has the ability to swivel 270 degrees, allowing the photographer to see and therefore create amazing pictures at hard to reach angles.

Live View with Contrast Detect Auto Focus and Face Detection: This advanced live view feature on the Olympus E30 gives the photographer more ability to interact with the subjects f face-to-face instead of from behind the view finder. This gives you a chance for that personal touch with the subjects you are photographing.

11 Scene Select Modes: You will find the Olympus E30 includes an 11 easy-to-use scene select modes are preset shooting modes. This helps make the best use of all the camera’s settings and help you to make the best shots possible.

Art Filter and Multiple Exposure Options: These options are what easily sets this camera apart from most the rest o its kind. The provide the ability to combine beauty and art to photography. These features are easily activated to give a pop art, soft focus, pale and light light tone, grainy film and pin hole settings.

In-body Image Stabilization: The in-body image stabilization of the Olympus E30 gives you the chance to shoot your images free without worrying about the blur that comes from the camera shaking as you shoot, or while you are moving. With this camera you do not have to spend the money on a special stabilizing lenses.

Summary-

If for no other reason, beyond the ease of use, the Olympus E-30 will make you feel like an artist, who is creating their pictures on canvas. This will make this camera not only be appealing to budding photographers,but the shooter with a creative flair, who likes to look at things from other points of view, like graphic designers, illustrators, and fashion designers, will also see and experience its benefits.


best professional dslr cameras, equipment

Nikon D 5000 Review

March 16th, 2010

#4 Professional DSLR Camera

Nikon D5000 12.3 MP DX Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens and 2.7-inch Vari-angle LCD

 

 The Nikon D5000 is the updated version of the popular Nikon D60 entry level camera. This is considers semi-professional DSLR camera, but the beginners or those who want to upgrade a step from the entry level class will find this an excellent option. The Nikon D5000 brought with it many of the popular features of its earlier versions, but also had added many new features commonly found in this class camera., like the addition of live view and HD video recording elements.

Nikon D5000 Features-

12.3 Megapixel DX format CMOS image sensor: The 12,3 megapixel work in tight combination with the CMOS sensor give crisp clear pictures at a breath taking quality

One-button Live View: Another feature that makes the transition from point and shoot more comfortable. The live view will give your some auto focus help and face recognition guidance.

EXPEED Image Processing: The quick and speedy power-up combined with the split-second continuous shooting shutter response capability, up to 4 frames per second, lets you easily to capture any of the fast action shots that are needed for sports events, when children play, or when in a moving vehicle, can be captured with ease and most importantly without any time lag between shots.

Variable-angle color 2.7-inch LCD monitor: With this moveable LCD monitor you can position the camera to reach awkward shots freely giving you opportunity for more options in your shooting perspectives. The LCD screen has the capability of flipping inward to keep it safe when not in use.

19 Auto-Exposure Scene Modes: These multiple options open up so many more options for for that go beyond the expected scene mode choices found in a point and shoot camera include sunsets, Candlelight, Silhouette, Portrait, Landscape, Beach/Snow, and will let you produce more stunning pictures

420-pixel RGB 3D Color Matrix Metering II: This feature that can be teamed with the scene modes lets you evaluate each scene and give the best exposure accuracy settings.

11-point Autofocus System with 3D Focus Tracking: This fast and accurate autofocus feature is able to deliver a razor sharpness. Built in image stabilization reduces the probability of blurred photographs

D Movie Mode: The Nikon D5000’s also has a 24-fps HD D-Movie mode that is able to capture sound along with its video clips. This capability is quickly becoming a must have in this class camera. Although it can be said, that the fast action shutter speed can make the photographer forget they even have the movie option.

Summary-

There really is no excuse for anyone not to buy the Nikon D5000. It is the right price with most of the best features found in this class of camera. It has a little something for everyone. The outstanding quality of photographs and easy to use features make this the perfect tool for someone wanting to enter the DSLR world at the upper end where you normally ind the professionals.


best professional dslr cameras, equipment

Pentax K2000 Review

March 16th, 2010

#5 Beginner DSLR Camera

Pentax 10.2 MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens – Black (K2000)

The Pentax K2000 offers many features that help make the transition to this entry level camera easier for the novice to DSLR photography. Its light and compact design is easy to hold, and in some situations can be used one handed. The many features are easy to find and easy to use, makaing the photography experience and enjoyable one.

Pentax K2000 Features-

10.2 megapixel CCD sensor: This will be more than enough pixels to produce outstanding photographs with superior quality and detail. Working in tandem with the sensor to give outstanding quality to your photographs. Autofocus capability is quick.

2.7 inch high-resolution LCD screen: the easy to read screen provides easy menu navigation, and decently sized previews.

PRIME (Pentax Real IMage Engine) Image Processing: This will maximize the image properties and can give custom adjustments of the other features, getting everything to work together. This lets color tone adjustment, picture size, speed, auto focus and scene modes to work to their best ability.

Auto Picture: With this feature you can expect the to get the right exposures with tthat goes with the settings you want to use at the time. What it does is automatically calculate the photographic settings to choose the best picture mode for any situation.

Ten scene modes: These are easy to select and will give you more options beyond what are found on a point ans shoot camera to get the best settings to take pictures in variety of light levels, distance and background.

Body-based Shake Reduction Technology: These sensors are placed internally and will help provide a lot more stability in your photography. This is particularly good while getting used to taking pictures with a heavier camera, and larger lens and frame than is found in a typical point and shoot camera.
 
In-body Help Button: This helpful feature gives beginners the ability for help and solutions that are found in the manual right on the LCD screen

Pentax K2000 Value and Satisfaction-

Value: The low price, compared to other similar models, and the many other features of this camera, make this entry-level DSLR Pentax K2000 camera a great investment for the novice to use as they delve into the world of high class photography.

Customer Satisfaction: For Pentax users who are upgrading to the K2000 they will find they really like the upgrades that have been added to this camera, and the fact they can use their old lenses. Most users seem to appreciate its solid construction and overall quality and performance levels.

Summary-
 
The Pentax K2000 is best described as the a perfect choice for an introduction into DSLR level photography. The beginner will find that it is a well-designed camera with features and tools that will improve overall image quality. With pricing that is based on value , you will find that the Pentax K2000 is a great entry level DSLR camera.

best beginner dslr cameras, equipment

Olympus EVOLT E-410 Review

March 15th, 2010

#4 Beginner DSLR Camera

Olympus Evolt E410 10MP Digital SLR Camera with 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Lens

The Olympus Evolt E-410 is the perfect for the initial jump into entry level DSLR camera class. A new user will find a relatively smooth transition from the point and shoot digital camera. There is enough about the workings of the camera that will be familiar to a new user, so that learning about the new features a DSLRs brings will not be a daunting task. Its compact size and intuitive automatic settings are some features that help make this a comfortable fit for the DSLR newcomer. It is one of the smaller sized cameras compared to its companions in this class, which makes not only handling it easier, but storing it is also no problem.

Olympus Evolt E-410 Features-

10 Megapixel Photo Resolution: Any amateur photographer will be happy with the superb image production they get from the 10 megapixels resolution the Olympus Evolt E-410 produces. More advanced and pro users will be happy as well.

Live View LCD Mode: Amateurs who have just transitioned to the DSLR entry level camera are happy to have a live view feature, letting you see the pictures in real time, that is so similar to what they have seen with a compact camera. The Olympus Evolt E-410 comes fully equipped with up to 1600 ISO, and JPEG shooting.

3.3 frames per second (fps) continual shooting speed: The Olympus Evolt E-410’s 3.3 frames per second continuous shooting mode is more than enough to catch in great detail fast paced sporting events and the non-stop activity of children playing. For everyday shooting, the Olympus Evolt E-410 snaps photos quickly with a response times range from 0.4 seconds outdoors to to .09 seconds doors.

Auto focus: There are a wide variety of auto focus modes, including some new ones like beach and fireworks. There will be a definite learning curve for first time users as they learn to understand when to use this feature. With this camera, most of the time the manual focus produces better quality images. As you learn the ins and outs of the camera, you might end up with some blurry and grainy photos when autofocus was used at the wrong times.

Anti-shock and Image Stabilization: This on board feature assures that the photos that are taken holding the camera by hand , without a tripod, will still come out crisp and blur free. The viewfinder, by the way, has a comfortable rubber eye rest.

Olympus Evolt E-410 Value and Satisfaction-

Value: The Olympus EVOLT E-410 is found among the lower priced cameras in the entry-level DSLR class camera.. A first-time DSLR user is given quite a few options that will help build their comfort zone while transitioning from a point and shoot camera.

Customer Satisfaction: The intuitive menus, radial dial and compact style are some features that newcomers are most comfortable with. If you are used to another more bulky DSLR camera, the smaller size might take some getting used to The main downside is the difficulty in mastering the manual vs. auto focus settings.

Summary-

For an entry level DSLR camera the Olympus Evolt E-410 is a perfectly acceptable choice for your first camera in semiprofessional grade photography. Its versatility in manual point and shoot situation as well as the automatic features make this camera easy to use and a good way to learn more about this class of camera.

best beginner dslr cameras, equipment

Canon EOS 7D Review

March 14th, 2010

#3 Professional DSLR Camera

Canon EOS 7D 18 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 3-inch LCD (Body Only)

In the semi professional category of DSLR cameras, also known as APS-C category, the Canon EOS 7D should be considered extraordinary. The semi professional class is where the camera is still a DSLR camera, more commonly considered the entry level class, but with enough features and quality that professionals will be able to regard this camera as a more than viable option. An experienced amateur, with a little practice, will be also be creating spectacular photographs in no time.

Canon EOS 7D Features:

18.0 megapixel resolution: There is a fine line of demarcation between enough and too many pixels. The Canon EOS 7D has figured out the perfect blend of pixel power that works with the CMOS sensor to create extraordinary pictures. The CMOS sensor has a new photodiode and microlens design that gives a perfect signal to noise(distortion) balance.

Dual DIGIC 4 Image Processors: These dual high-speed processors work like our human brain, as this is where all the optical image data is accurately collected, processed and saved at break neck speeds. Without this processing speed, none of the other amazing features found on this camera would be possible.

1920×1080 Full HD Video Recording: What is quickly becoming a standard expectation to have on these cameras, the EOS 7D has video recoding at 30p, 24p or 25p frames per second. It also can record at 1280×720 HD or 60x VGA. Features include HDMI output so you can view directly on an HDTV or a monitor. This feature also give in camera editing

19point, Auto-focus System: This all cross-type auto-focus system give you the most accurate auto focus you can find not only with a Canon but in almost any other camera on the market. What cross-type feature means is that all nineteen auto-focus points can be used for both horizontal and vertical focus calculations, This, combined with the Canon EOS 7D’s ability to take 8 frames per second continual shooting ability, ends up making this camera one of the fastest in the semiprofessional class.

63 zone Dual-layer Metering Sensor: This complements the auto-focus system by taking into account color and brightness levels that surround the focus points of the photographs . What happens is there ends up with a reduced number of exposure errors due to the many light sources.

3.0-inch LCD monitor: This is 920,000 dot resolution . It comes with an optional overlay that gives auto focus detail, exposure information like shutter seed, ISO, and aperture among as well as flash, image and composition.

Flash Information: A pop-up flash is included for those times it is truly needes. Flash free shooting in a wide range of different lighting conditions is possible due to the ISO range of 100 to 6.400, with expansion up to 12,800.

Summary:

Within this class of semi-professional, APS-C dSLR cameras, there are few that can even begin to compare with the quality of the Canon EOS 7D. The experienced amateur photographer and most professionals can’t go wrong if they were to choose this model. The choice really comes down to personal preference.

best professional dslr cameras, equipment

Canon Rebel XS Review

March 14th, 2010

#3 Beginner DSLR Camera

Canon Rebel XS 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens (Black)

The Canon Rebel XS is the newest in a long line of high quality Canon brand cameras. This model has feels and acts so much like the high end point and shoot camera that you will hardly notice that you have made the transition to an entry level DSLR camera, that is until you see the quality of your photographs! Its light body, comfortable grip, compact style make it feel quite comfortable from the very first time you pick it up. When compared to other DSLR camera, it feels much lighter. Some additional things that make the Rebel XS easy to use are the Live View finder, six automatic shooting modes and easy to remove lenses.

Canon Rebel XS Features:

10.1 Megapixel Image Sensor: DIGIC III image processor: CMOS sensor: The combination of these three features, working together help assure the amateur photographer to capture some brilliant photographs with outstanding color and details. As the pictures are enlarged there will be no grainy look and sharp details stay intact, as long as the ISO settings were low.

2.5 inch LCD monitor: This size of a LCD monitor is a perfect size to make viewing the images and messages easy. It includes an anti-glare coating so that the images can be viewed in daylight just as well as indoors. The menu is organized logically and once you learn the Canon system is easy to navigate. For those who upgraded from another Canon, this will be simple. All are read through the live view option.

Live View Option: With the live view shooting option, you have the same option as on the compact digital camera of seeing the view without looking through the lens. This makes it easier in certain situations to see what the picture will be. In general it is better and more accurate to use the actual view finder.

Lenses: Ths Canon Rebel XS camera has a lens kit that include an 18-55 mm lens. Most lenses from other Canon cameras are compatible with this camera. In addition, if you were to upgrade to a higher level Canon camera, you will be able to take your lens with you. The lenses are easy to remove, ehich is also nice.

Shutter Speed: The Rebel XS is designed to take up to 3 frames per second of continuous shooting it can capture plenty of action. If you hold the easty to reach shutter release down you can capture multiple images. This feature works best on manual focus, auto focus might slow it down. So for the situations where you need to take many quick action shots, it is best to use manual mode.

7 Point Auto Focus: These options help get the best settings, particularly for the quick unexpected shots. The timing for auto focus to lock in on the target and then get in focus was quick.

Manual Mode: As you use the camera, you will gradually recognize and memorize the best settings for situations you use a lot and be able to set them yourself. These setting are found on a selector dial just behind the shutter release button.

Canon Rebel XS Value and Satisfaction

Value: The Canon Rebel XS should be considered a middle of the pack when it comes to comparing its price to other entry-level DSLR cameras. The style and features it offers still make it a bargain for anyone who is looking to purchase their first DSLR camera.

Customer Satisfaction: One thing that stands out when rating satisfaction level of the Canon Rebel XS entry level camera is the flexibility, compact size and light weight that made it easy to hold and easy to use. It feels like a point and shoot camera. The details of the color reproduction and overall quality of the images are simply outstanding.

Summary:

This entry level Canon Rebel XS DSLR camera really performs on par with the more expensive cameras in this class or even in the professional class camera. Its great features, combined with relative low cost, makes this camera one that all amateurs should seriously consider when making the transition from the digital compact, point and shoot camera.

best beginner dslr cameras, equipment

Nikon D300S Camera Review

March 8th, 2010

#2 Professional DSLR Camera

Nikon D300s 12MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S ED VR II Telephoto Zoom Lens

The Nikon D300S is the updated version of the D300 which basically set the bar pretty high, and that standard is still relevant today. There were very few changes made to this updated version and just adds to the high quality already in place. The overall feel of the camera is outstanding, the controls are placed in a comfortable position and overall construction is of the quality you would expect from Nikon. They have mastered the art of ergonomic design when it comes to cameras.

What you have in the D300S camera is really more of a semi-professional camera. It is a higher class than most DSLRs but functions on par with the full-frame CMOS sensor cameras the professionals generally use. Most pros would find this camera more than appropriate for their use and the more capable amateur will be thrilled with the high level of features and the overall performance. Combine the design, ease of use, and add modern technology and you have a mighty fine camera.

Nikon D300S Camera Features

12.3- megapixels: This is a lower number than normally seen for a professional level cameras, but it is a high quality count for a DSLR. It is deceiving as the exceptionally sharp picture quality matches what if often found with the higher level pixel count found in professional cameras

DX-format full screen CMOS sensor: The CMOS sensor technology allows for a perfect blend of pixel numbers and light sensor capabilities by the angles the light ray hit each pixel. It includes an Integrated Dust Reduction system that uses ultrasonic vibrations will keep the sensor clean.

Nikon EXPEED processor: This will give high quality processing speed and accurate images, keeping the noise levels low. It has the capability of shooting 7 frames per second. The battery charge will last through 950 shots.

3 inch LCD Screen: This monitor with a protective tempered glass covering, has a 921,000 dot VGA screen that is very easy to read and easy to use. It has the added feature of seven levels of brightness to make it easy to read in all degrees of indoor and outdoor light.

Auto Focus System: This camera has a highly effective new contrast detection auto focus system. It uses 51 auto focus points, which is higher than normal for this style camera. The auto focus system is easy to use and will give photos that are especially clear and sharp. In addition, there is a 3D color matrix metering system with 1,005 pixels that has the capability to evaluate color information as part pf the automatic choosing of exposure settings. You will find that its standard ISO sensitivity will range from 200- 3,200 and it has an expanded sensitivity of 100 to 6400 available.

Video Recording: One of the additions to this model, that is not found in the D300 is video recording. The Nikon D300S can record video at 24 frames per second on it s720p HD video. The combination of still and video recording capabilities is becoming an important tool in professional photograph today, much to the dismay of many purists. This includes a n integrated microphone that unfortunately is place too close to the auto focus motor sound. One of the few flaws in the design. Using the external microphone input capability will take care of that problem.

Duel Memory Cards: One particularly helpful new feature for this D300s camera is the dual memory card slots. This lets you use both a compact flash and a secure digital card. You can use these in a variety of ways. Use one to store the overflow from the other. You might also record JPEG to one card and RAW to the other. Another option is to put still shots on one card and video on the other.

Summary:

Having a DSLR camera that functions at the superior performance levels associated with professional class cameras is a nice affordable option. The Nikon D300S is just that camera. It is far above the other cameras in the DSLR class and the features meet the needs of the pros. It keeps the high standards set in the original S300 while adding a video element and other minor changes. Any professional or experienced amateur would be well served by this semi-professional camera.

astrophotography, best professional dslr cameras, equipment

Sony DSLR Alpha A300 Review

March 6th, 2010

#2 Beginner DSLR Camera

Sony Alpha DSLRA300K 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera with Super SteadyShot Image Stabilization with DT 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens

Sony has gone all out with their Alpha series models to make the amateur photographer have the easiest transition possible from the point and shoot digital camera to the entry level DSLRs. They are designed to be as user friendly as possible with many features like automatic shooting modes that make starting out as easy as can be while giving the opportunity to learn the more advanced skills needed to manually make the adjustments to the camera settings.. The Alpha 300 series adds an adjustable tilt screen with real time view to even further add to the ease of transition. This series was built on the Konica Minolta SLR body, so anyone with that camera could use their lenses will work with this A300 series camera.

Sony DSLR Alpha 300 Features

A 10.2 megapixel image sensor: This is really more than enough pixels for any amateur photographer to use, and even enough to satisfy the more advanced photographer’s needs. The biggest advantage for entry level photography is the ability to blow up the pictures without becoming distorted or grainy.

Built In Image Stabilizer: Like with the A200 series, a stabilizer built into the camera itself instead of the lenses allows pictures to come out with clear sharp images not matter which lenses are being used. One thing the stabilizer will do is eliminates the blur that comes when the camera is moved or jiggled when shooting a picture.

Flip up,3 inch LCD Screen: this feature makes it easy to read the options on the LCD screen both outdoors and inside. The flip up feature protects athe screen when not is use, keeping it out of harms way.

Live View Function: This option, when turned on,lets you basically use this A300 camera just like a point and shoot camera. Add to that a movable screen that can be tilted to help take pictures from well above your head, to those lower to the ground with ease.

View Finder: When using the view finder manually you can shoot up to 3 frames per second which makes for some great action shots. The buffer can store 6 images in RAW mode, so you do not have to wait between shots. That I one of the more annoying features of the point and shoot cameras.

Built In Flash: Perfect for the novice DSLR camera user, the flash will pop up automatically if needed. It not only helps get the best shots, but the user will gradually learn how to tell when the flash is needed and when natural light is enough.

Anti Dust Mechanism: Most DSLRs have a feature that helps keep the dust off the CCD sensor. This way when lenses are changed there is less chance of dust entering. It also will save lots of time when using the photography enhancement software. Not having to touch up photos to get rid of specs of dust is a true time saver.

Sony Alpha DSLR A300 Value and Satisfaction

Value:

When looking at value, it is important to consider the cost of a camera of this caliber, in relation to the quality of the features With the Sony A300 model, it is the adjustable screen, the 10.2 megapixel resolution and the automatic flash that set this camera apart from other models and can justify the higher cost. These will give an entry level DSLR camera user added ways to explore the art of photography and help increase the comfort zone when making the transition to this type of photography.

Customer Satisfaction:

There are two features that stick out when looking a the satisfaction level of customers. On is the the convenience of being able to use old their Konica Minolta lenses and the other is the benefits gained from having a LCD screen that can be tilted to make taking pictures from awkward angles easier. Add these to the picture quality and you have satisfied customers.

Summary:

All in all, the Sony Alpha A300 model of Sony’s entry level camera would be a good option for any one making the transition to DSLR level of photography. It includes all the features found in the newly updated Sony A200 series along with some more advanced features that will make the photography experience even better. Its compatibility with the Konica Minolta lenses make this an attractive option for quite a few budding photographers.

best beginner dslr cameras, equipment

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II Review

March 5th, 2010

#1 Professional DSLR Camera

Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II is the most recent update the the highly popular and well regarded Canon EOS 5D. This is a camera whose extensive electronic attributes are designed to meet the needs of professional photographers and photojournalists, yet at the same time a skilled amateur photographer could also learn to use this model if and when they are ready to upgrade from a DSLR entry level camera. Although much heavier than the point and shoot digital camera, the Canon Eos 5D Mark II at two pounds is considered light weight for its class. The same can be said for the price, it will be a significant jump in cost from the entry level DSLR camera, but in its class, and taking into consideration all the features that are included, it should be considered a bargain.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II Features

21.1 Megapixel Resolution: It is important to keep your pixel count at a level that matches the other capabilities your camera can produce. There is no need for a massive pixel count without the proper supporting devices that work with it. The Canon EOS 5D Mark II is able to take full advantage of each one of the 21.1 megapixels Full Frame CMOS Sensor: The original Canon 5D was credited with being the first large, single plate full frame (36mmx24mm) CMOS sensor on a digital camera and the EOS 5D Mark II has continued to utilize these benefits. This works in tandem with the pixels, and functions similarly to the ways light will hit 35mm film (the same dimensions.) The light will hit the pixels at the same angle it used to hit the film, a perfect blend of pixel number and light sensor capabilities.

DIGIC 4 Image Processor: This is often referred to as the digital command center of a camera since it is where all the light data received can be speedily processed to create a clear, image with amazing photographic detail, with high quality color, face detection and video recording. Full

HD Video Recording: This EOS 5D MarkII camera is the first model that Canon has made that incorporates video recording into its large sensor, speedy processing and fast 30 frames a second shooting capabilities. Individual still shots can be taken while the film video is recording. Optional mono or stereo microphones can be connected to add an audio element.

Clear View LCD Screen: A 3.0 inch LCD screen, with 920,000/VGA resolution gives top quality viewing. It will adjust its brightness to the surrounding light condition. Other viewing functions include a Live View, where real time viewing can be used, including zooming, and a Face Detection Live setting.

Advanced Cleaning System: There is a low-pass filter found at the front of the CMOS sensor that with ultrasonic vibrations can shake off micro-dust particles. This system was designed specifically for the CMOS full-frame sensor. If any particles were to sneak past this, the accompanying Digital Photo Professional software can be calibrated to delete any dust spots.

ISO Speed and Exposure Controls: There are both manual and automatic speed adjustments, with manual options ranging from 100 – 6400 and automatic options with a range of 100 – 3200. Shooting in near darkness is possible with sensitivity up to 25,6000. The Canon EOS 5D MarkII has a variety of exposure controls like Program AE, shutter-priority AE, aperture-priority AE, and creative auto. Other settings include a more choices than found in the entry level DSLR cameras. In addition to the auto, custom, flash, daylight, shade and cloudy settings, there are also options for tungsten light, white fluorescent light, color temperature settings and automatic white balance.

Summary:

This model update was over three years in the making, which in electronic time seems like forever. Because of this, the modifications and improvements to the Canon EOS 5D Mark II go well beyond minor adjustments and give the consumer innovative and impressive features like massive light sensors, super fast processing, HD videos and a superior quality LCD screen. There is no question that this is a camera designed for the professional, and will serve them well for years to come. Amateurs who want to take their photography capabilities up to a higher level, and can afford the cost, will also benefit from this outstanding camera.

astrophotography, best professional dslr cameras, equipment

DSLR Cameras Provide Higher Quality Pictures

March 5th, 2010

When it comes to buying a new camera most consumers think that DSLR cameras are strictly for professional usage. While there are many SLR cameras that professionals prefer to use, they are also designed for general usage. What makes either a DSLR or a SLR camera different from an automatic or digital camera is the ability to change lens.

A DSLR stands for a digital SLR camera that uses a digital single reflex lens. The camera uses a mirrored position behind the lens that will direct light toward the viewfinder. When the user releases the shutter, the mirror will swing out of the way to let light from the lens travel straight to the sensor. This action will momentarily black out the viewfinder, and flip the image upside down. The viewfinder houses a prism that will work in reverse, so that you can see the image it right side up. The DSLR camera is designed to provide the user with multiple focal lens length options.

With an automatic camera your taking lens and viewing lens are different from each other. These lenses’s as are considered to be fixed lens and require a complex viewfinder mechanism in order to take the majority of your pictures. A DSLR camera will allow you to take a wider variety of pictures, and avoid many of the problems that arise with an automatic camera. This is possible because, your viewing lens and your taking lens are the same lens. This will improve your image quality, provide different speed options, increase your depth of field, larger ISO range, provide quality optics and allow you to control how you take your picture. While these cameras are more manual, you will have a greater influence on the end result.

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