Canon EOS-1D X: The Future King of DSLR

If you haven't heard yet, Canon just put out a press release for the Canon-1D X.  It'll be Canon's flagship camera and the new features are set to crown it the king of DSLRs.  The 1D models are designed primarily for photographers, but this will be the first full frame, full HD DSLR since the MKII.  Moire has been "minimized" and the maximum clip length has been extended to 29 minutes 59 seconds (there's a crazy EU tax law on videos 30 minutes or longer).  There doesn't appear to be any footage released yet, but I'm excited to see what it can do!  Check out the great posts below by Matt Weiss of Dive Photo Guide and Philip Bloom for their thoughts and the full press release.  The Canon-1D X should be available next spring for an estimated $6,800.

http://philipbloom.net/2011/10/18/1dx/

http://www.divephotoguide.com/underwater-photography-scuba-ocean-news/canon-announces-eos-1dx-professional-slr/

-RA

The Panasonic AF100

The Panasonic AF100.  Think of it as an updated HVX that also allows for interchangeable lenses.  Sounds sexy, right?

Priced at around 5k (including a Panasonic Lumix 14-140mm f/4.0-5.8 on B&H to get things started), it's in the same ballpark as the HVX and is a solid choice for new camera buyers contemplating a rig in that price range.  The image quality is comparable to the 5D, but it's built like a traditional prosumer camera if you're not into the ergonomics of DSLRs.

So when debating the AF100 vs DSLRs which should you go for?  If you ask me it comes down to three factors: glass, level of action, and shooting style.  If you've got a DSLR with good glass, you're probably OK to stick with the DSLR.  You've also got the open option to use those lenses you've invested in with an AF100 rental.  The AF100 will blow away DSLRs with kit lenses.  If you're shooting fast-paced action, the AF100 will have less trouble with aliasing.  However, I've seen several mountain bike and skate videos that turned out fine when shot on a DSLR.  For most people the deciding factor will be shooting style.  Both camera systems will record beautiful images and allow for a variety of experimentation.  Take into consideration your own preferences in regards to camera mounting, traveling, weight, and of course - price.  Personally, I still side with DSLRs for ownership, but that's based on my own shooting style.  I need a more versatile system to keep up with my ever-on-the-go lifestyle.  Given the choice between the two for a short narrative, I may have to go with the AF100.  Keep in mind that no camera is the best choice for every situation.

If you want to see a more technical comparison check out Zacuto's 2011 Camera Shootout.  For now, take a look at the video below to get a glimpse of the AF-100 in action.

From The Inside Out - Stevie Smith from SecondBase Films on Vimeo.

-RA

Canon 60D: Shape of Things to Come?

The Canon 60D is an interesting camera.  It has beautiful resolution, and is a strong addition to the Canon line of DSLRs.  It may have a smaller sensor than than the 5D, as well as lower resolution, and less durability, than both the 5D and 7D, but the 60D can do a few tricks that it's older brothers can't.

The most noticeable difference is the flip-out LCD screen.  Photographers may scratch their heads as to it's necessity, but for DSLR filmmakers without the budget, or need, for a shooting rig decked out with an EVF on an articulating arm, it's a welcomed sight. It seems like such a little change, but the biggest DSLR learning curve I had to overcome was always needing to bring myself to eye level with the viewfinder.  Being a taller guy, I'm used to looking down through an angled eyepiece.  The flip-out option on the 60D makes getting into position a lot easier, and definitely more comfortable.

There's also the addition of adjustable audio levels.  The 60D is the first to introduce this feature, and it's a large step in the right direction.  What can we expect to see out of the new versions of the 5D and 7D, rumored to debut summer 2012?  Canon had no new toys to show off at the 2011 NAB.  I trust Canon.  I know that they must have something cooking.  It makes me wonder what we'll see next.  I feel like the 60D, built with less power than the 5D and 7D, is really just a testing ground to get feedback on the shape of things to come.

The video below is uber-cheesey, but it's a great example of what Canon's EOS line of DSLRs are capable of.

Canon PowerShot SX130: The Best Camera Under $200

If you’re looking for a compact camera that takes great pictures, check out the Canon PowerShot SX130 and SX230.  They're certainly not professional-level cameras, but for everyday use, or just a night out on the town, they'll definitely take quality pictures for you to share with friends and family.   No other point-and-shoot camera even comes close to the color and clarity of Canon’s SX line.  The SX130 is slightly larger than a pocket camera, but is still small enough to easily carry in a jacket pocket or a small purse.  It also comes loaded with fun features like: fisheye, color accent, and macro.  The picture below is a great example of the color quality, and latitude between the highlight and shadow areas.

The miniature effect mode creates a soft focus at the top and bottom of the frame.  With high angle shots, it creates the illusion that the subject is smaller than it appears to be.  With smart foreground and background compositions, it also does a great job of mimicking the shallow depth of field achieved by professional DSLR cameras. The result is an image that leads your eyes to the important part of the picture (it also looks just plain cool). Check out the image below.

 

If you have a larger budget, or want something with a pocket-sized design, take a look at the Canon PowerShot SX230.

At around $350, it’s a slimmer version of the SX130 with features that are slightly more enhanced, including a toy camera mode.  Canon also offers a waterproof housing for it, available on B&H for $189.  So, for about $539 (plus tax) you get Canon’s quality images in a pocket-sized camera, AND the ability to shoot underwater.  That’s not a bad deal at all.

Whether you go with SX130, or the SX230, you’re getting a great camera at a great price. 

- RA

(Photographs by Emily Espinosa)