Cameras-n- Stuff

It’s time for one more DSLR shootout. This time it’s the Canon 60D vs Canon Rebel T2i (aka Rebel 550D).

Canon has done something different with the development and release of the 60D. The name “Canon 60D” really belongs to a model that is an upgrade of the Canon 50D, but the 60D does not fit that spot. For it is not actually an upgrade in the most technical sense.

But wait, all things considered, it actually does fit the “spot” that Canon is marketing it for. Engineers have been functioning in overtime throughout the past year, and it is apparently paying off “in spades” as the Canon T2i and the Canon 7D have done extremely well against all competition.

It is quite interesting to look at the Canon 60D vs Rebel T2i in comparison. While both use the exact same sensor and processor, as well as the body construction, there are a few differences that make the newer camera worth the extra money.

Canon has seemingly set an unstated goal to bring video to the Digital SLR market. The fact that Canon has made it a priority to get high quality video into their DSLR cameras is exhibited in all three releases in the entry and semi-pro level cameras having the exact same video capabilities. Actually, there is one more thing. The 60D has a new audio input capability which allows for better stereo input from two mics.

Other additions that appear to put the 60D into a category all its own include an articulating LCD panel. It is the first DSLR by Canon to have this feature. Video capture is made so much easier if it can be done without your eye having to be attached to the camera’s viewfinder.

Yet another advantage of the 60D vs T2i is the rate of image capture. The 60D can operate at 5.3 fps vs 3.7 fps in the Rebel model.

Are you one who has difficulty getting your photos straight? If so, the new electronic level in the viewfinder of the 60D will make your photographic life complete.

Cross-type focal points help the photographer to have more control over the composition of the image. While both cameras have nine focal points, only the 60D features each focal point as a cross-type auto focus point. The T2i has only one such cross-type auto focus point.

Add wireless flash control and improved control over the auto-ISO function, and that about rounds out the new and improved features.

As first time buyer’s digital SLR, the Canon T2i is at the top of the heap right now. Excellent image quality is just one of many reasons for the popularity of the T2i. Just check the user satisfaction at the online stores to see that the Rebel T2i is among the best sellers in the digital SLR category. You just can’t miss if you decide to purchase one.

The Canon 60D, in comparison, may end up being in the same entry level category, since semi-pros might be put off by the “hybridization” of the new model, the more durable magnesium body construction (available in the 50D) being just one example.

So which digital SLR will you choose in the Canon 60D vs Canon T2i competition? Are you still on the fence? There is a side-by-side-by-side parallel view (including the 7D) at http://digital-photographic-resources.com/cameras/canon-mid-range.html

Now that the newest Rebel, the Canon Rebel T2i (aka 550D), has made an impact on the camera world, the question that has been “bandied about” is whether the Rebel T2i is as good as the 7D.

I believe the reason for this comparison is because they both have 18 MP sensors and both are capable of 1080p HD video. So the question becomes, “Why buy a Canon 7D for $1500 when you can buy a Canon Rebel T2i for about $800?”

First of all, are the cameras equal?

Of course not!

There are a couple of very significant differences I will point out.

• First and most obvious when you hold both cameras, you would notice a difference in the construction. The Canon 7D has a magnesium body with weather resistant seals, while the T2i is made with some metal parts, but not nearly as substantial as its older brother.
• Second is the burst rate. The 7D is capable of 8 frames per second. The T2i is capable of less than half that at 3.7 frames per second.
• Third is the control features. The 7D is much more robust when you compare the amount of control you have as a photographer.

So, while the Canon Rebel T2i is a “honey of a camera”, it is not a 7D. And Canon never said it was.

Bottom line here is this: If I were entering the DSLR market today, I would definitely purchase a Canon Rebel T2i. It is an awesome entry level DSLR at its current price.

If, however, I could get my hands on a Canon 7D instead of a T2i, there is no question I would take that opportunity in a heartbeat.

Here is an honest comparison of the two cameras in video format.

I just noticed on the CanonUSA web site that there is an update to the firmware. Here is the notice:
Service Notice: EOS 7D: Residual Image in Picture

Thank you for using Canon products.

We have confirmed that in certain camera settings and shooting conditions, the phenomenon described below may occur in images captured by the EOS 7D Digital SLR camera.

We offer our most sincere apologies to customers using this product who have been inconvenienced by this issue. Going forward, we will spare no effort in our quality management to make sure our customers can use our products with confidence. We hope our efforts will earn your understanding.

Phenomenon
In images captured by continuous shooting, and under certain conditions, barely noticeable traces of the immediately preceding frame may be visible. This phenomenon is not noticeable in an image with optimal exposure. The phenomenon may become more noticeable if a retouching process such as level compensation is applied to emphasize the image.

Affected Product
EOS 7D Digital SLR
You can download the update from their web site by clicking here.
Happy Shooting!