Canon Unveils 18 Megapixel EOS 7D Camera
The flurry of new cameras continue. After weeks of speculation and leaks, Canon has unveiled the new high-end EOS 7D, an 18MP camera with 8 fps continuous shooting and full HD video, aimed squarely at Nikon’s latest release. With the new body, Canon also revealed three new lenses: the EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM, EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM, and EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lenses.
The new 7D boasts many features that appear to check off many’s dream list. Some of the new features include: full HD video with manual exposure at 24, 25, or 30 fps; a new viewfinder with 1.0x magnification and 100% coverage, something previously only in the the top-of-the-line 1D line; also borrowing from the 1Ds is dual DIGIC 4 processors, which powers 8 fps continuous shooting; a rugged, waterproof body; and new and customizable buttons, including a Quick Control button and RAW+JPG button. Two features that are a very welcomed addition, Nikon having them for several bodies, are an electronic level and wireless flash control using the pop-up flash. One potential drawback could be that it is not full-frame, Canon instead choosing to cram 18 MP onto an APS-C sensor, so image quality will have to be reviewed once it’s released at the end of September. It will be available as a body only for $1699 or as a kit with a 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS for $1899. The Nikon D300s, being more expensive and with less features (two-year-old guts with video added,) just got a whole lot less appealing.
Canon also announced the EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM, the EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM, and the EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS. The 100mm f/2.8L is the first lens with Canon’s new Hybrid Image Stabilization, which promises up to 4 stops of correction. The 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM and EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lenses will be available at the end of September at estimated retail prices of $1,049.00 and $499.99, respectively. The EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 USM is should be available in late October at an estimated retail price of $799.99.
What do you think of this new body? Is it a stunning addition to Canon’s line or yawn-inducing? Let us know in the comments.
[7D Press Release, Lens Press Release]
