Camera Labs

Hi folks,

Northlight Images EOS-1D MkIV rumours page has some speculation about the future for the 1D line including, trivially, the possibility of a new name following the AF debacle. More interesting, in my view, is the possibility that Canon may drop the APS-H (1.3 crop) sensor in favour of a full-frame sensor, this in response to the Nikon D3.

That leaves open the possibility that Canon can use an APS-H sized sensor in a future semi-pro model without hurting sales of their "pro" models, although the position of the EOS 5D replacement (5DMkII) might be slightly less clear. The benefit of better image quality that the larger photo-sites allow is a given but it seems to me that this move could only happen if Canon could arrange physical compatibility with their EF-S lenses. If that means using the central part of the sensor because of vignetting or other optical issues Nikon have, of course, opened that particular marketing door with the D3.

So, will we have an EOS 40D replacement (EOS 50D or even 60D) with an APS-H sensor? Such a camera would be a cracking answer to Nikon's D300 with its 1.5 crop and has a beautiful fit with some of Canon's finest glass. Instead of a full-frame equivalent of 27-64mm on an APS-C (1.6 crop) sensor the EF 17-40mm f4L USM equates to 22-52mm giving significant wide-angle coverage. Similarly, instead of the 38-168mm equivalent of the EF 24-105mm f4L IS USM we get 31-136mm which is arguably the perfect walk-around lens. I could continue but you get my drift. The only losers would be those who rely on the longer telephoto lenses where new glass or, compatibility allowing, Canon Extenders might have to be purchased.

All speculation, of course, but if the demand is there I'm sure Canon could oblige.

Bob.

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OM-D E-M5 + ED 12-50mm, H-PS14042E, H-F007014E, L-RS014150E, M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 45mm 1:1.8.
Gitzo GT1541T, Arca-Swiss Z1 DP ball-head.
Astrophotography: TEC 140 'scope, FLI ML16803 camera, ASA DDM60 Pro mount.

Hmmm, I'm not sure about seeing APS-H in consumer cameras. I think we'll see more full frame at the premium end, and that APS-C will be kept for budget models. But I've been proven wrong before!

Hi folks,

I've changed the title of this thread to more accurately reflect what I hope will be its future content, though putting "accurately" and "rumour" together may be something of an oxymoron.

The latest speculation has the following feature list:

• 12mp sensor still at 1.6 crop
• DIGIC IV
• ISO 6400
• HDMI output

with most wanted items being:

• Extra AF points (Semi-pro)
• High resolution screen
• Full AF in live view

and "maybe" features as:

• 16 bit A/D
• Built in WiFi
• Hard Drive Grip

Early days yet though I would have thought that DIGIC IV, ISO 6400, Semi-pro AF and a High-Res LCD screen were "no brainers".

Bob.

_________________
OM-D E-M5 + ED 12-50mm, H-PS14042E, H-F007014E, L-RS014150E, M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 45mm 1:1.8.
Gitzo GT1541T, Arca-Swiss Z1 DP ball-head.
Astrophotography: TEC 140 'scope, FLI ML16803 camera, ASA DDM60 Pro mount.

Wow these guys sure start guessing early. The HD grip sounds like an interesting idea.

On the 1DMkIII,

Quote:
The 1D III was intended to be a ground-breaking camera, but now is considered 'Kyou' or bad luck, attributed to it being the 4th camera in the 1D Series.

I have no intention of bashing Canon(especially not here ) but I can't believe they are blaming it's lack of sales due to the AF problem on it being #4 in the series.

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Graham
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