Canon T1i, XSi, 50D and XS kits instant rebates

November 1, 2009 · Filed Under camera · Comment 

Canon offers instant rebates from Nov. 1 to Nov 21 2009 for up to $200 on the following Canon EOS DSLR kits:

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Canon 50D Canon EF 28-135mm IS kit + Canon EF 70-300mm f/4/5.6 $1299+$649.99-$200 = $1748.99

Canon T1i Canon EF-S 18-55mm IS kit + Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 $799.99 + $299.99-$200 = $899.98

Canon XSi Canon 18-55mm IS kit+ Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 $699.99+$299.99- $200 = $799.98

Canon XS Canon 18-55mm IS kit + Canon 75-300mm f/4-5.6 $569.99 + $199.99-$200 = $669.98



Canon 7D and Canon 5D Mark II video comparison

October 6, 2009 · Filed Under camera · Comment 

Canon-7dcanon5dmkII

Camera town posted some very interesting comparison of video clips recorded using Canon 7D and Canon 5D Mark II. It was found that both video clips from Canon 7D and 5D Mark II have similar sharpness. Canon 5D MarkII video has a shallower DOF and lower noise above ISO4000.

Panasonic DMC-GF1 reviews, best price, sample images and videos, accessories and user manual

September 20, 2009 · Filed Under camera · Comment 

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Panasonic GF1 is the smallest interchangeable lens camera featuring a 4/3-type 12.1 megapixel live MOS sensor, 1280×720 HD video capture video in AVCHD Lite format for longer recording time.

Panasonic DMC-GF1 reviews

GF1 review at dpreview: Highly recommended

“Superb resolution, excellent overall image quality up to ISO 1600; Stunning raw output; Excellent build quality & great screen.”

GF1 review at Imaging resource

The Panasonic GF1’s faster autofocus makes it a better choice for journalists, though those shooting JPEGs will have to be careful about the yellow and orange performance. Olympus’s E-P1 has considerably slower autofocus, read more

DCRP review of Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1

Very good photo quality: low noise until highest ISOs, HD movie mode with choice of codecs, use of continuous AF and image stabilization when availabl

GF1 sample images

Sample images at dpreview

Sample images at Imaging resource

GF1 user manual: coming soon

BUY Panasonic GF1 at the best price



Panasonic Lumix GF1 News Release

Secaucus, NJ (September 2, 2009) – Today, Panasonic announced the new LUMIX DMC-GF1, the latest addition to the award-winning LUMIX G Series, which debuts as the world’s smallest and lightest system digital camera with a built-in flash*. The LUMIX DMC-GF1 distinguishes itself from previous models with its elegant, compact design reminiscent of classic film cameras, yet builds on Panasonic’s success with the revolutionary LUMIX G Series of digital interchangeable lens system cameras based on the Micro Four Thirds system standard. With its compact size, user-friendly design and ability to record High Definition (HD) video and take professional-quality photos, the LUMIX GF1 continues to redefine digital photography standards.

“Panasonic changed the digital camera industry with the world’s first Micro Four Thirds digital camera, the LUMIX G1 – a compact “DSLR-like” digital camera that produces exceptional image quality. Then, as we continued to raise the innovation bar, Panasonic launched the LUMIX GH1, adding full High Definition 1080p video recording with continuous auto focus,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “The new LUMIX GF1 continues the evolution and is the perfect addition to our LUMIX G Series, as its sophisticated, small body makes it easier and more convenient to carry. The GF1 is ideal for point-and-shoot consumers looking to step-up to DSLR-quality or for current DSLR users who want greater convenience without compromising performance quality or creative flexibility.”

With its lightweight body, the LUMIX GF1 provides experienced photographers with the ideal digital camera to carry with them at all times. Like its predecessors in the LUMIX G Series, the LUMIX GF1 eliminates the pentaprism found in traditional interchangeable lens cameras. Thus, this mirror-free structure allows Panasonic to dramatically reduce both size and weight.

Though small in size, the LUMIX GF1 does not compromise in advanced features. The LUMIX GF1 thoroughly optimizes the advantages of a system camera to ensure high performance, whether capturing photos or HD video. The LUMIX DMC-GF1 can record 1280 x 720 High Definition video in AVCHD Lite, a format that enables longer recording times. With a dedicated video record button, capturing video is convenient and easy. The LUMIX GF1 can also record HD Motion JPEG in 1280 x 720 and other video recording formats include: QVGA, VGA and WVGA. The LUMIX GF1 has a unique Movie Program Mode that allows consumers to adjust the depth-of-field while shooting in HD video, so background and foreground can be blurred to give creative effects – something typically only possible with expensive professional camcorders.

The LUMIX DMC-GF1 includes the new My Color mode, which includes seven preset effects – Expressive, Retro, Pure, Elegant, Monochrome, Dynamic Art, Silhouette and Custom – all which let users manually set the color, brightness and saturation levels. With the Live View function, users can see how these settings will effect the photo before they shoot, making it easier to capture the exact mood or atmosphere desired. For even more elaborate effects, users can choose from a total of nine Film modes, and set the contrast, sharpness and saturation levels for each. A custom function lets users store their favorite settings in memory. Furthermore, the exposure meter can be displayed in other shooting modes and the correlation between shutter speed and aperture is shown, with a color-coded warning that alerts users when the settings are not in the proper range.

For those users not quite comfortable with extensive manual and creative controls, the LUMIX GF1 provides a user-friendly setting that can address a beginner’s comfort level, while helping them evolve their photography skills. For instance, Panasonic’s new Scene mode, Peripheral Defocus, lets users take a photo where the foreground is in focus and background is blurred – or vice versa. This popular effect can be intimidating for a beginner, but in the Peripheral Defocus mode, by simply selecting the objects to be blurred and focused using the camera’s keypad, it is simple for photographers of any level.

Also, helping to make the LUMIX GF1 more approachable, Panasonic’s popular iA (Intelligent Auto) mode, a system of technologies that engage automatically – no setting changes needed – allows for intuitive use when shooting still or video images. While shooting video, iA activates Panasonic’s O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization), which helps reduce video-blurring due to handshake. In addition, Face Detection automatically detects a face in the frame and adjusts focus, exposure, contrast, and skin complexion on it so it always turns out beautifully. Intelligent Exposure continually checks the ambient light level and adjusts the exposure setting as conditions change to prevent blown highlights and blocked shadows. For still photos, the iA system encompasses: Face Recognition (up to six faces can be registered); Auto Focus (AF) Tracking; Mega O.I.S.; Intelligent ISO; Intelligent Exposure; and Intelligent Scene Selector.

The LUMIX GF1 also comes fully-equipped with a built-in flash and a large, 3.0-inch Intelligent LCD with a wide viewing angle and a 460,000-dot resolution. The Intelligent LCD offers automatic backlight control, which when combined with its high-resolution, helps improve visibility in all light environments – from sunny outdoors to low-light interior settings. New for the LUMIX G Series, the LUMIX GF1 is compatible with an optional Live View Finder (DMW-LVF1), which provides the full-time live view function boasting 100% field of view regardless of the attached lens. To further expand the LUMIX G Series system, Panasonic Micro Four Thirds digital cameras can be used with Four Thirds System interchangeable lenses via an optional mount adaptor DMW-MA1 and with the prestigious Leica M/R lenses using Panasonic’s DMW-MA2M DMW-MA3R. These adapters give the user access to the unlimited number of lens properties.

The LUMIX GF1’s sensor technology offers the best of both worlds – the superior image quality of a CCD sensor, and the low-power consumption of a CMOS sensor. Advanced technology makes it possible to read four channels of data simultaneously, helping the LUMIX GF1 deliver 60 frames-per-second full-time Live View images, while maintaining fine detail and rich gradation. The LUMIX GF1’s Venus Engine HD records stunning high-resolution 12-megapixel images using its advanced Live MOS Sensor. This sophisticated LSI circuit separates chromatic noise from luminance noise and applies the optimal noise reduction to each, helping to capture clear and beautiful images even when shooting at high ISO levels.

The contrast AF system adopted in the LUMIX GF1 is not only accurate, but also very quick – approximately 0.3 seconds with the LUMIX G H-FS014045 lens. Users can choose from a wide-range of AF modes, including multiple-area AF with up to 23 focus areas; 1-area AF with a selectable focus area; Face Detection; and AF Tracking. The LUMIX GF1 also has a Quick AF function that begins focusing as soon as the user aims the camera – without pressing the shutter button halfway.

As with all Panasonic LUMIX G Series digital cameras, the LUMIX GF1 is equipped with a highly-effective Dust Reduction system. Thus, if dust gets inside the camera (when changing lenses), Panasonic’s Dust Reduction system addresses this problem by placing a supersonic wave filter in front of the Live MOS sensor which vertically vibrates around 50,000 times per second, thus repelling the dust.

The content captured on the LUMIX GF1 can easily be viewed on a Panasonic VIERA® HDTV by simply inserting the SD/SDCH Memory Card into the VIERA’s SD/SDHC Memory Card slot or into a Panasonic DIGA Blu-ray Disc Player. Alternatively, an optional mini HDMI cable can be used to output still and motion images recorded with the LUMIX DMC-GF1 directly to the TV for easy VIERA LinkTM operation, with control of playback functions, such as slideshows, managed from the VIERA HDTV’s remote control.

The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GF1 will be available in early October 2009 with the option of two kits – both with a suggested retail price (SRP) of $899.95. One kit option includes the newly-announced LUMIX G 20mm/F1.7 ASPH, a compact and lightweight “pancake” lens, while the other kit features the LUMIX G VARIO 14-45mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH/MEGA O.I.S. The optional Live View Finder DMW-LVF1 has an SRP of $199.95; while the DMW-MA2M and DMW-MA3R both have an SRP of $249.95. All new accessories will also be available in early October.

For more information about Panasonic and its LUMIX G System cameras and accessories, please visit www.panasonic.com/lumix.

*As as of September 2, 2009

•Panasonic in-house comparison. The speed may vary depending on the specifications of PC and the number of images stored in the PC and other condition.

•AVCHD Lite motion images recorded onto an SD Memory Card or a DVD cannot be played on a device that does not support the AVCHD standard.

•Some video recording functions may not be available depending on the lens that is mounted.

•When setting quality to HD, WVGA or VGA, Panasonic recommends using a high-speed card with “10MB/s” or greater displayed on the package.

•Continuous recording exceeding 2GB is not possible when recording motion JPEG. Remaining time for continuous recording is displayed on the screen.

•AVCHD Lite motion images recorded onto an SD Memory Card or a DVD disc cannot be played from a device that does not support the AVCHD standard.

•Turn Face Recognition item ON and register the person with full-face portrait on the shooting menu in advance. Refer to back page for detail.

•Some functions in iA mode may not be available depending on the lens that is mounted.

• Lenses that are not compatible with the contrast AF function can be used with manual focusing.

•There are some limitations to other functions depending on the lens to attach.

About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company

Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation. (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic’s U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. In its commitment to provide consumers with extensive imaging resources, Panasonic LUMIX established the Digital Photo Academy, a series of nationwide workshops designed to instruct consumers how to optimize the features on their digital cameras and produce high-quality photos. Panasonic is honored to support OUR PLACE – The World’s Heritage, a project that will create the world’s largest photographic collection of UNESCO World Heritage sites, with acclaimed photographers exclusively using LUMIX digital cameras to capture all images.

Canon PowerShot SX20 IS reviews, best price, sample images, user manual and accessories

September 3, 2009 · Filed Under camera · Comment 

canon_sx20_550Canon PowerShot SX20 features a 12.1 megapixel CCD sensor, a 20x optical zoom lens with image stabilization (28-560mm), a vari-angle LCD with 230,000 resolution and HD video mode (stereo sound, 1280×720p at 30 frames per second).

The major difference of SX20 with SX10 is the addition of HD movie mode and HDMI output.  Unfortunately, there is no RAW support in Canon SX20.

Canon SX20 reviews:

The first Canon SX20 review was published today by Mark Goldstein at photographyblog.

Verdict: 4/5 recommended

“Despite the less than stellar still images, lack of RAW, slight price increase and few real upgrades over the previous model, the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS remains a likeable and easy-to-use camera”

Canon SX20 preview from letsgodigital

Buy Canon SX20 at the best price:


Essential accessory


Canon SX20 sample images

Image 1

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Canon SX20 user manual can be found here.

Canon Press release

CANON U.S.A. ANNOUNCES ADDITIONS TO ITS AWARD-WINNING LINE OF POWERSHOT DIGITAL CAMERAS

Experience the First-Ever Touch Screen PowerShot Camera; Celebrate the Resurgence of the S-Series Digital Camera Line; Capture a Memorable Shot with the New High Sensitivity System

Lake Success, N.Y., August 19, 2009 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today announced six new PowerShot cameras offering diverse photographic options for users who have just begun their photographic journey or have been mastering their skills for many years. The new camera line-up delivers the unique features users want, with the superb image quality, ease-of-use and stylish design they have come to expect from Canon.

Whether a professional photographer looking for a smaller camera to tote along on assignment or a snap-happy sports fan heading to the big game, the new PowerShot digital cameras give users options for upgrading their shooting experience. All of the new cameras feature Optical Image Stabilization and use the DIGIC 4 Image Processor, the proprietary technology that accounts for the cameras’ higher performance levels, improved signal processing speeds and enhanced image quality. Smart AUTO technology can now track moving faces and 22 different shooting situations (up from 18 previously) by identifying the surroundings to help ensure proper lighting and focus, providing the confidence to deliver high-quality photos in virtually any situation, from group snapshots, to landscapes, to portraits and more.

Select new PowerShot models will have the ability to shoot 720p High-Definition (HD) video, utilize the PureColor System LCD and for the first time from Canon, a PowerShot Digital ELPH camera will have a touch screen user interface for easy navigation through images and menus.

The desire to capture a clear shot of a sunrise or sunset over a mountain range can be fulfilled by using powerful features such as the brand new 10.0-Megapixel High Sensitivity System found on two of the new higher-end PowerShot cameras, the PowerShot G11 and PowerShot S90. Proven to enhance image quality in low-light situations and reduce noise at high ISO speeds, the new High Sensitivity System which is combined with the DIGIC 4 image processor, results in a faster shutter speed to help reduce subject blur and camera shake in recorded images. When it’s not possible to use the flash at an event such as a wedding or a dance recital, this High Sensitivity System will help ensure images look great while making the user the envy of all in attendance.

“With the introduction of these new PowerShot cameras, consumers will have a wide array of choices when looking to upgrade and enhance their photography experience,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. “Professional and entry-level users alike will now have the opportunity to choose the camera which best suits both their photographic and personal style at the same time.”

Canon PowerShot SX20 IS and SX120 IS Digital Cameras

When consumers are looking for a camera with a powerful zoom that is lightweight and easy-to-use, the PowerShot SX-series should be top-of-mind. Consumers can get a close-up shot without sitting in the front row and be assured images will be of superb quality. The latest additions to the SX-series are the PowerShot SX20 IS and PowerShot SX120 IS.

Canon PowerShot SX20 IS Digital Camera

Featuring:

A 12.1-Megapixel sensor with a high-powered 20x wide-angle Optical Zoom lens and Optical Image Stabilizer to help reduce camera shake and achieve magnificent images whether up close or far away.

The ability to shoot superb 720p (30 fps) HD video with HDMI output to share high-quality videos of memorable moments with family and friends.

A 2.5-inch vari-angle PureColor System LCD allowing for easy on-camera viewing of images and menus at nearly every angle while also having a viewfinder.

AA batteries for easy power-up and replacement.

Scheduled to be available in September, the PowerShot SX20 IS Digital Camera retails for an estimated price of $399.99.

CANON iMAGE GATEWAY

CANON iMAGE GATEWAY is an exclusive online photography resource and service for registered owners of qualified Canon products. Users can upload and share photos and videos with friends and family if they have registered certain qualifying products via their Canon Account. Members also gain access to informative photography-related articles on topics such as macro shooting, portrait photography, printing tips and print projects to get the most out of their photos. Registered qualifying PowerShot digital cameras owners are able to customize their Canon camera with great start-up images and sounds. The Video Podcast Service – available for qualifying camera and video product owners – enables members to upload videos to be shared and viewed, which can also be used with Apple’s iTunes® and downloaded to access on an Apple iPod® or iPhone™ mobile device.

About Canon U.S.A., Inc.

Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. Its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), a top patent holder of technology, ranked third overall in the U.S. in 2008†, with global revenues of US $45 billion, is listed as number seven in the computer industry on Fortune Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies 2009 list, and is on the 2008 BusinessWeek list of “Top 100 Brands.” At Canon, we care because caring is essential to living together in harmony. Founded upon a corporate philosophy of Kyosei – “all people, regardless of race, religion or culture, harmoniously living and working together into the future” – Canon U.S.A. supports a number of social, youth, educational and other programs, including environmental and recycling initiatives. Additional information about these programs can be found at www.usa.canon.com/kyosei. To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company’s RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/rss.

Canon 7D: best deals, reviews, best lenses and accessories, sample images and videos

September 2, 2009 · Filed Under camera · Comment 

Canon 7DCanon 7D, the Canon’s new class of APS-C digital SLR for serious photographers, features a new 18 megapixel CMOS sensor, Dual Digic 4 image processors and HD movie capture. Canon 7D will be available in September in US at the price of $1699 body only.
Compare Canon 7D prices (body only)



The key features of Canon 7D are: (from Canon’s descriptions)

  • 18.0 Megapixel CMOS Sensor and Dual DIGIC 4 Image Processors
  • ISO 100-6400 (expandable to 12,800)
  • 8.0 fps continuous shooting up to 126 Large/JPEGs with CF card and 15 RAW.
  • Advanced movie mode with manual exposure control and selectable frame rates: 1920 x 1080 (Full HD): 30p / 24p / 25p, 1280 x 720 (HD): 60p / 50p, 640 x 480 (SD): 60p / 50p. The 1280 x 720p (HD) at 60 frames per second will be very useful.
  • Intelligent Viewfinder with 100% field of view, wide viewing angle of 29.4°, high magnification of 1.0, intelligent viewfinder with glass pentaprism
  • New 19-point, all cross-type AF system equipped with dual diagonal cross-type sensors in center at f/2.8 and f/5.6
  • Magnesium body with shutter 150,000 cycles and dust and weather resistance.

Canon 7D reviews

Dpreview just posted the in-depth review of Canon 7D: It offers excellent image quality in all shooting situations and an impressive speed of operation, combined with very good build quality and ergonomics. Highly recommended!

Camera Labs reviews of Canon 7D
Good points
Tough build and superb ergonomics.
Zonable 19-point AF and 8fps burst shooting.
Big viewfinder with graphics. VGA screen.
Adjustable HD resolution and fps with mic input.

Bad points
Basic 3-frame exposure bracketing.
Single card slot versus dual on D300s.
Flash flickers for AF illumination.
Image quality surpassed by 5D Mark I

Canon 7D review at techradar

The 7D is best for its video quality, 5D markII is for its image quality and Nikon D300s for its cheaper price

Canon 7D review at photographyblog

“excellent auto-focus, with a faster and more accurate 19-point system and a number of significant new options that will particularly appeal to action and macro shooters. The metering system, processing and operation times, optical viewfinder and flash system have all been upgraded too, making the EOS 7D one of the most well-specified Canon DSLR to date.”

Canon 7D preview from dpreview

Canon 7D preview from imaging resource

Canon 7D hands on-Gizmodo

Canon 7D sample images and videos

Canon official sample images and videos

Canon 7D Sample Video from Gizmodo on Vimeo.

Sample galleries at dpreview


Best lenses for Canon 7D

The best walk around lens is Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM. This lens is very sharp with constant and large aperture 2.8. The three stop image stabilization allows to take photos at low light. With the 1.6x factor, Canon 17-55mm corresponds to 27-88mm in a 35mm camera.


The best telephoto lens is Canon EF 70-200 mm f/4L IS USM. This lens is extremely sharp. It is relatively light (700g) with 4 stop image stabilization. Highly recommended!


For more details on the best canon lenses, read here.

Essential accessories for Canon 7D

Canon BG-E7 battery grip Canon LP-E6 battery


Canon Deluxe photo backpack 200EG. Shoulder bag: Lowepro Rezo 170AW camera bag ( best deal: $45).


Canon RS-80N3 remote switch


External flash: Canon 430EX II (best deal $239) or Canon 580EX II (best deal $399).

Others include tripods, UV filters and polarizers, memory cards.

Canon press release

Canon U.S.A. Redefines Mid-Range DSLR Category With The New EOS 7D Digital SLR Camera

The EOS 7D Features Fast Eight fps Continuous Shooting, Class-Leading 18-Megapixel Resolution and Full HD Video Recording with Variable Frame Rates and Manual Exposure Control

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., September 1, 2009 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today introduced a revolutionary camera that redefines the highly competitive mid-range DSLR product category: the Canon EOS 7D Digital SLR camera. Professional photographers and advanced amateurs have been demanding higher performance and more diverse functions in their cameras, and Canon has answered – with the new EOS 7D. Far more than a slight improvement from a previous model, the EOS 7D DSLR is a brand new product that stands on its own with new features never before seen in any Canon camera. Whether it’s shooting at eight frames per second (fps), focusing with the new Zone AF mode or recording 24p Full HD video, the EOS 7D DSLR camera satisfies the most rigorous professional requirements with durability, flexibility, high-resolution images and customizable controls. With its unprecedented out-of-the-box performance and high-end feature set, the EOS 7D is poised as the ultimate step-up camera for serious photographers or a second camera for professionals in the field.

The EOS 7D boasts significant EOS advancements including a completely new 19-point Autofocus system, a new Canon iFCL Metering System (Intelligent Focus, Color, Luminance) and a new Intelligent Viewfinder. An 18-megapixel Canon CMOS sensor and Dual DIGIC 4 Imaging Processors fuel the EOS 7D’s 14-bit A/D data conversion and its ability to freeze fast motion in high-resolution with eight fps continuous shooting up to 126 Large JPEGS using a UDMA CF card, positioning this camera for the studio as well as the sideline. The EOS 7D captures beautiful low-light images with or without a flash, at occasions such as a dance recital or wedding reception, thanks to a wide range of ISO speed settings from 100-6400 (expandable to 12,800). In addition to its new still capture capabilities, the EOS 7D features Full HD video capture at 1920 x 1080 resolution with selectable frame rates of 24p, 25p or 30p. Native 24p recording helps videographers achieve a more cinema-style look for their footage without the need for post-processing.

“The EOS 7D represents a completely new chapter in digital photography and Canon product development. This camera stands alone as the most functional and innovative DSLR Canon has released to-date, bringing together all of the best professional features offered, along with numerous user requests at a price-point everyone can appreciate,” stated Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.

The Evolution of Vision, the EOS 7D’s New Autofocus System The Canon EOS 7D boasts the most advanced AF system ever seen in an EOS SLR. The completely re-designed system includes a new multi-axis cross-type 19-point AF grid, where the focusing points are evenly spread out across the image plane and clearly displayed through Canon’s new Intelligent Viewfinder. All 19 points are f/5.6-sensitive for both horizontal and vertical cross-type focusing, while the center AF point adds high-precision diagonal cross-type sensitivity for f/2.8 and larger aperture lenses. The Canon EOS 7D Digital SLR camera is the first EOS SLR to feature 19 cross-type focusing points that remain fully functional with maximum apertures as small as f/5.6, which brings the performance of the AF system to unprecedented levels for assignments as varied as fast-moving sports action or low-light wedding ceremonies.

The Canon EOS 7D’s AF system allows numerous AF area selection modes never seen before in an EOS SLR camera. New modes include:

Spot AF mode reduces the size of a single AF point to focus on small subjects like an animal in a cage.

AF Point Expansion mode uses a cluster of AF points adjacent to the selected AF point to automatically assist focusing on moving subjects, such as an athlete on the run.

Zone AF divides the 19 AF points into five selectable focusing zones and makes it easier to achieve focus with subjects that are difficult to track with Single Point AF or AF point expansion, such as birds in flight.

Additional AF improvements include a revised Automatic AF point selection sequence that allows a user to pick any one of the 19 AF points as a starting point for tracking moving subjects in AI Servo mode. (Previous EOS models required the subject to first be acquired by the center focusing point.) If the subject moves away, the camera will continue to track the movement with the remaining points and display the active focusing point in the viewfinder. Also, a time-saving feature is AF Point Switching, which allows photographers to select and register one AF point for horizontal compositions and a second AF point for vertical shooting, ideal for studio and portrait photographers.

To complement the new AF system, the exposure metering system for the EOS 7D has been completely re-designed to take color information into account, another first for an EOS system. Canon’s iFCL metering includes a 63-zone dual-layer metering sensor that reads both illumination and color for consistent results in all lighting conditions, keeping exposure levels stable from shot to shot, even as the light source changes.

Canon’s new Intelligent Viewfinder uses a liquid crystal overlay to provide clear and precise displays of focusing points and zones, on-demand grid lines and a spot metering circle. The LCD overlay can also be illuminated in extreme low-light situations or turned off completely. The EOS 7D camera’s viewfinder includes a large all-glass pentaprism with an antireflective coating to maximize clarity and provide a brighter display. The EOS 7D’s Intelligent Viewfinder features 1.0x magnification with 100 percent coverage for accurate composition and checking of detail.

EOS HD Movie: Empowering the World of Videography Canon has blazed new trails in HD video capture with the 5D Mark II. Now, the EOS 7D takes DSLR video to new heights with Full HD capture featuring fully manual exposure control, and selectable cinematic frame rates for both NTSC (National Television System Committee) and PAL (Phase Altering Line) standards. Compatible with more than 60 Canon EF and EF-S lenses, the EOS 7D lets videographers take full advantage of the camera’s large CMOS sensor to achieve the dramatic frame composition they desire. At the heart of the EOS 7D are two key proprietary Canon technologies, Dual DIGIC 4 Imaging Processors and a large APS-C–sized CMOS sensor, helping to render stunning color reproduction, amazing depth of field and fine detail, even in low-light conditions. The Canon EOS 7D allows for three video recording modes – Full HD and HD in a 16:9 aspect ratio and Standard Definition (SD) in a 4:3 aspect ratio, all at selectable frame rates. The EOS 7D Digital SLR camera will record Full HD at 1920 x 1080 pixels in selectable frame rates of 24p (23.976), 25p, or 30p (29.97); 720p HD recording at 50p or 60p (59.94) and SD video at frame rates of 50p or 60p (59.94). The EOS 7D features a new dedicated button to initiate live view for both video and still shooting. Once engaged, the same dedicated button will start and stop video recording. Like the EOS 5D Mark II, the Canon EOS 7D Digital SLR camera provides users with the capability to use an external stereo microphone for professional audio effects or a built-in monaural microphone for convenience.

The Features You Asked For A helpful new tool for architectural and landscape photography where angles and perspective are critical is Canon’s new built-in Dual Axis Electronic Level, featuring an artificial horizon over the image on the rear LCD screen in Live View or in the viewfinder using illuminated AF points for easy leveling while shooting. The dual axis electronic level shows both horizontal roll and vertical pitch, making it easy to identify when the camera is in a fixed level shooting position and ready to take the shot.

The EOS 7D’s pop-up flash features a built-in Integrated Speedlite Transmitter for control of multiple off-camera EOS Speedlites without the need for an external transmitter. This built-in wireless option is a compact and economical solution for studio and wedding photography with multiple flash set-ups.

A new Intelligent Macro Tracking function helps reduce blur during macro shooting by recognizing when a macro lens is attached and automatically adjusting the AI Servo sampling frequency. This AI Servo adjustment accounts for camera movement forward and back, a typical occurrence when moving in close for a macro shot as photographers rock back and forth, or a flower blows in the wind.

Once in your hands, you can immediately feel the ergonomic improvements of the Canon EOS 7D camera, starting with a new super-fluid body design with continuous curves outlining the top of the camera and a revised grip that fits better in a user’s hand. The camera has a new Quick Control Button, which opens an easy-to-navigate menu on the camera’s LCD screen. From this menu, users can adjust all camera settings including AF modes as well as set custom button functions, an insightful new feature that can easily customize each button’s function to the photographer’s preference. Another new feature is the RAW/JPEG toggle button providing quick dual-format shooting, allowing photographers to quickly add large JPEG or RAW file formats to their already selected shooting mode at the touch of a button.

The Canon EOS 7D camera also features a new large, clear 3.0-inch solid structure Clear View II LCD screen with 920,000 dot/VGA resolution for enhanced clarity and color when viewing images. The camera’s nine internal seals enhance weather resistance, and its 150,000-cycle shutter durability positions the EOS 7D as a “workhorse” for professionals in any photography discipline.

New Wireless Connectivity Canon is announcing the availability of the new WFT-E5A wireless file transmitter (WFT) exclusively for the EOS 7D Digital SLR camera. The WFT-E5A wireless transmitter offers professional photographers a wide range of digital connectivity options including IEEE802.11a/b/g and Ethernet, ideal for commercial and studio work. The WFT-E5A wireless file transmitter opens the door to new possibilities in remote and Geotagged shooting applications. Photographers can fire up to 10 cameras simultaneously from across the room or across the country while maintaining control over camera settings and remote live view on a laptop or smart phone.[i] The WFT-E5A wireless transmitter can also transfer and display images on DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) compatible televisions and photo frames. Geotagging is now possible via Bluetooth, using compatible GPS devices to append coordinate data to the images.

Pricing and Availability The Canon EOS 7D Digital SLR camera is scheduled to be delivered to U.S. dealers at the end of September, and will be sold in a body-only configuration at an estimated retail price of $1,699.00[ii]. It will also be offered in a kit version with Canon’s EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM zoom lens at an estimated retail price of $1,899.00[iii]. The Canon WFT-E5A wireless file transmitter is scheduled to be available in early November and sell at an estimated retail price of $699.99[iv].

Canon Digital Learning Center Online visitors and Web surfers are encouraged to browse the Canon Digital Learning Center and take advantage of the various educational resources that Canon has to offer for novices and advanced photographers alike. The Canon Digital Learning Center provides a schedule for a wide variety of Live Learning classes across the country with renowned photographers as well as online resources and tips. The site also features online tutorials for beginners and professionals to learn their way around a digital SLR camera and inkjet printer and unlock the full creative control of digital photography. To learn more about each program and register, please visit: www.usa.canon.com/canonlivelearning

About Canon U.S.A., Inc. Canon U.S.A., Inc. is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. Its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), a top patent holder of technology, ranked third overall in the U.S. in 2008†, with global revenues of US $45 billion, is listed as number four in the computer industry on Fortune Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies 2009 list, and is on the 2008 BusinessWeek list of “Top 100 Brands.” At Canon, we care because caring is essential to living together in harmony. Founded upon a corporate philosophy of Kyosei – “all people, regardless of race, religion or culture, harmoniously living and working together into the future” – Canon U.S.A. supports a number of social, youth, educational and other programs, including environmental and recycling initiatives. Additional information about these programs can be found at www.usa.canon.com/kyosei. To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company’s RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/RSS .

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†Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.

All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.

Specifications and availability are subject to change without notice.

The WFT-E5A WFT unit supports various LAN functions, including wireless LAN “11a” in environments where IEEE802.11b/g cannot be used, high-speed communication Ethernet (100BASE-TX), and Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS). The WFT-E5A will also support the WFT server, which enables remote shooting while viewing the Live View image on a computer or handheld terminal, such as a smart phone.

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