Canon yesterday released three firmware updates for digital cameras, the EOS series. Including the long awaited update for the EOS 50D .

Specifically, the operating system for the following Canon SLR is updated: Canon 50D, Canon 450D and Canon 1000D. For all three models was the support of available shortly Aufsteckblitzes Canon Speedlite 270EX added thereto. The update for the EOS 50D, however, was already a long time been expected. Cameras have a service department went through were already a few weeks ago, the firmware versions 1.0.5 and 1.0.6, while available on the website of the manufacturer, only the version 1.0.3.

The version 1.0.6 for the EOS 50D contains therefore some corrections of known errors. So loud Canon, the phenomenon of vertical banding (vertical banding noise) has been eliminated. In addition, learned the error codes a revision. The aim is the future more meaningful and more sophisticated error messages are displayed. This was the famous general error "Err 99", which has been shown for almost all causes of errors that occur less frequently.

As part of the update of the firmware of the camera and the software of the computer must be updated to at least the following versions:

• Digital Photo Professional: Version 3.5.2 (Windows / Macintosh)
• Picture Style Editor: Version 1.4.2 (Windows / Macintosh)
• ZoomBrowser EX: Version 6.2.1c (Windows)
• ImageBrowser: Version 6.2.1c (Macintosh)

The updates are available on the website of Canon at the following links:

• Canon EOS 1000D Firmware Update Version 1.0.5
• Canon EOS 450D Firmware Update Version 1.1.0
• Canon EOS 50D Firmware Update Version 1.0.6
• Canon Software Center Germany

Tags: equipment , Canon , DSLR , EOS , hardware , cameras , software , technology

This is great for the serious amateur photographer: the EOS 500D, which will be on the market in May, it makes its big brother the EOS 5D Mark II to, and acts as a "multifunction device". For not only caused 15.1 Megapixel photos with the 500D, but also impressive movies in full HD quality. At a price of 799 € (RRP) for the camera body, the new is launched and is probably one of the first of its kind to provide even more excitement in the camera market.

To be fitted at the decisive moment right across the board, the EOS 500D is an ideal tool for the ambitious hobby photographers. There must in the first steps of the infant, the wedding vows and rings exchange, the birthday song, or on vacation at the picturesque fishing nets do not eject the short and awkward, the camera can be changed. It is sufficient, as already known from compact cameras, a small twist of the dial to the movie function. Thus, clearing the way for movies that make literally also via HDMI on a full HD TV has an excellent figure. The EOS 500D is still more high-quality camera as a film camera, because ergonomics and operation are designed primarily to meet the needs of photography. And yet, if possible in a movie and image quality to the high standards of "people pictures" justice, the filmmaking is an added benefit, the larger the user with the fun of making pictures once more.

Moving images in cinematic look

In movie mode - this is shown in Live View mode - records the 500D as well as the EOS 5D Mark II movie clips in full HD quality, that is, with 1,920 x 1,080 pixels on. These provide up to 20 frames per second for smooth video, brilliant results with detailed, realistic-looking images. With the APS-C CMOS sensor, the videos get a visual effect, as is known from cinema productions: this can blur the foreground and background can be used creatively. One option that does not even offer high-quality camcorder. Another plus point: During the filming can be individual photos shot with the movie only briefly interrupted and will continue automatically. Also in Movie Mode, the Auto Focus. But it can also be focused manually.

The technology behind the "stage"

The 15.1 Megapixel photo to make large prints or large enlargements possible. The CMOS sensor in APS-C size leads to a focal length of lens by a factor of 1.6.
Thanks to its high ISO sensitivity up to ISO 3200 - expandable to 12800 - the EOS 500D delivers even in low light shooting situations with very high quality picture. For efficient noise reduction features Canon's DIGIC 4 image processor responsible.

For longer videos can be recorded alternatively with a low resolution such as 720p or VGA with a frame rate of 30 frames per second. The integrated HDMI ™ interface provides a convenient, fast playback of images and movies on a compatible HDTV.

Attention to detail

The large 7.6-inch Clear View LCD (3 inch) enables reliable image control - either while recording or during the subsequent examination of the material. The LCD is identical to that already from the EOS 5D Mark II known monitor and offers impressive sharp 920,000 points. The Live View mode simplifies not only the inclusion of an unfavorable perspective, it also supports auto focus options based on contrast and face detection parameters. The auto focus with real-time display on the LCD is similar to the ease of a compact camera - ideal for easy entry into digital SLR photography. Sound is recorded through the integrated mono microphone.

Fast signal processing, fast focusing

The Canon DIGIC 4 image processor enables fast continuous shooting at up to 3.4 frames per second, the buffer memory has a capacity for up to 170 JPEG images in succession - depending on the capacity of the inserted SD card. Thanks to Canon's wide area AF system with nine individual sensors - including a high-precision cross-type sensor for measuring the central field for lenses with an aperture from 1:2,8 - the camera is excellent preparation for subjects with a lot of action.

Together with the CMOS sensor, DIGIC 4 causes an exceptionally good noise reduction and a 14-bit image processing for accurate color gradations and natural looking colors. DIGIC 4 also makes the extremely fast startup times and near-instant image review after shooting - two important criteria for discerning photographers.

Tags: Canon , Camera , Technology

For weeks I've been waiting for me again and again I was promised they would receive in the next few days, but then it was finally time. On Monday of this week, I could hold in their hands. The Canon EOS 50D.

In late August, I've got the Canon EOS 50D announced . End of September, they should then be available. Until the actual commercial availability but it took until the 9th October. The wait was worth it. The camera is a dream and I would like to describe my first impression.

This report is intentionally subjective. I want to do with the camera and not a series of tests, because I think it was built exactly for that. The camera fits comfortably in your hand and processed properly. The housing is apart from the silver dial, and the label is identical to its predecessor, the EOS 40D. The display is extremely good. Very high resolution and good anti-reflective coating. It is also ideal for field evaluation in the live mode. I have my display with a protective glass of GGS provided, which, unlike the better known protectors significantly better optical properties and better protection.

The live mode is the next highlight. Introduced with the EOS 40D's successor with other auto-focus function was fitted. It is now possible without the mirror to fold it back with the help of a contrast AF to focus. This is somewhat slower than the normal-phase AF (still possible), but very accurate. The contrast AF is accompanied by a facial recognition as it is known from the compact camera class.

The speed is phenomenal. Despite the enormous amount of data (~ 20-25 MB per image), the camera is very fast. I have not measured it, but 4-5 frames per second are quite realistic.

Some macro and night shots this week proved to be very efficient operation of the camera. The Quick View and the arrangement of buttons make the work in the dark, the displays are very easy to read even at night.

Finally, a few words about the noise performance. By increasing the resolution of 15 MP on an APS-C sensor generally more noise was expected. In my attempts, shooting up to ISO 1600 have proven to be very good. Subjectively like ISO 1600 on the EOS 50D like ISO 400 for the Canon EOS 400D . Also photos at ISO 3200 are useful, but should be at higher Nutzauflösungen possibly denoised on a PC with appropriate software. The Entrauschungsalgorithmus of the processor (4 digits) is proceeding cautiously, so that hardly any details are lost. The high ISO settings, however I believe only for small resolutions such as web images are suitable. There is just possible to operate at very low light or with fast shutter speeds, which is certainly pleased some party photographers.

My personal conclusion: The move has paid off for me, give the EOS 50D I certainly do not recover as quickly.

Sure, I'll report later in more detail here and post some pictures. First, however, once one of the very first pictures I've shot. And what should a photograph after a long day at work EDVler otherwise - at least if you want to maintain some clichés .

Elixir of Life

Tags: equipment , Canon , DSLR , EOS , hardware , camera , my Equipment

As the press release this morning I got from Canon, I had to read two times a section. There was still true: "The EOS SLR family grows with: The new EOS 5D Mark II."

A year ago, was counted on the announcement of a successor in September, introduced in 2005 for the full frame EOS 5D camera. Finally, the disappointment was great when in the press release at Photokina on 26.08.2008 only one, at that time completely unexpected, EOS 50D has been mentioned. Much has been speculated that a possible technical data "7D" or "EOS 3D" were traded in relevant forums. But now it was time. The wait for fans of the Canon full frame has an end. And so it will look like:

In addition to a resolution of 21.1 megapixels lush on the full-frame CMOS sensor (36mm x 24mm) and a sensitivity up to ISO 25600, Live View and already for the EOS 50D announced DIGIT 4 processor, the camera offers a 3 inch Clear-view monitor with 920,000 pixels and an HDMI port. The camera is a continuous speed of 3.9 frames per second on UDMA-compatible memory cards indicated. The weather-proof seal, rugged magnesium casing and the rated life of 150,000 cycles, enhance the professional standards of the camera body. -Hilfssensoren spendiert um den Autofokus zu verbessern. In addition, Canon has that of other current camera models prominent 9 cross-type AF sensors, a further 6 AF assist sensors donated to improve the auto focus.

An entirely new feature, which is not yet integrated into any Canon SLR camera is the ability to create videos in full HD resolution dar. After recently had his Nikon D90 asked for a similar function in prospect, already had a discussion about the meaning and flared end of the recording of moving images with an SLR. Whether this, in the compact class inherited feature for DSLRs really proves to be useful only time will tell. It is certain that it will probably soon belong to the standard and opens up the use of interchangeable lenses, new possibilities for filmmakers semiprofesionelle.

Technical key data:

• 21.1 Megapixel full frame CMOS sensor
• DIGIC 4 processor
• ISO range expandable to 25600
• Recording of Full HD (1080, 30 B / s)
• 3.0-inch VGA LCD with Live View mode
• Up to 3.9 frames / sec (JPEG)
• 9-point AF + 6 Assist AF points
• Magnesium alloy body

The camera is supposed to end November 2008 for 2499 EUR be available in stores.

Related links:

• Canon EOS 5D Mark II product page
• Canon EOS 5D Mark II Technical Data

Tags: announcement , Canon , DSLR , EOS , hardware , camera , art

On the Internet the rumors for a long time. At the latest after last Friday (22/08/2008) on the Japanese website of the manufacturer's "mistake" a product to the designated successor of the Canon EOS 40D was released, it was clear to many: the time of the EOS 40D is coming to an end.

This is especially noticeable that Canon 50D with the announcement of its product cycle of 15 months in this camera class considerably below. This could be due to strong competition from Nikon, the D300 had brought a camera with you on the market, which the 40D in certain sectors not look very good read.

In an official press release for Canon EOS 50D now also the final specs are known. The new reading is essentially a product maintenance of its predecessor. Thus, the much-criticized LCD screen is improved. The new resolution of 920,000 pixels should the manual focusing in Live mode much easier.

The second major change is the resolution. Here, at a whopping 15.1 megapixel Canon ventures. Klasse enorm viel. Enormous for an APS-C sensor in the DSLR class a lot. Canon promises reduced by the new processor, improved noise reduction and significantly improved micro lenses to have the resolution despite the noise. This would also be necessary to keep pace with the competition. Whether this technical miracle has indeed been the first practical tests have shown.

Aufnahmen in Folge) trotz der höheren Datenmenge gehalten werden konnte. The new DIGIC 4 processor now supports Compact Flash memory cards with UDMA and was in its speed optimized so that the old shooting speed of about 6 frames per second (90 JPEGs/16 RAW shots in a row), despite the higher amount of data held.

Another update on the EOS 40D is the ability to recordings with extremely high ISO values ​​produce. Here are two modes of operation with ISO 6400 and ISO 12800 will be announced. However, whether these are practical and therefore represent an improvement remains to be seen.

In addition, a few more enhancements, see the detail. Here, a new coating of the sensor are mentioned, which will reduce the dust problem further. The camera can now as the professional class (1D) can be adjusted and thus reduce AF problems and vignetting automatically count out up to 20 lenses. In addition, Canon has equipped the novice an HDMI connection.

Overall, the EOS 50D promises a very interesting camera sources to be used with the Canon to the Nikon D300 high-flyer at least very close to that. Whether they can in the details, just keep the noise, which promises they will show up.

According to Canon, we can expect the new showpiece of the semi-professional DSLR class in late September for EUR 1,300 in the trade. The Canon EOS 40D will remain temporarily on the range.

Here are the technical data in detail:

Tags: announcement , Canon , DSLR , EOS , hardware , camera , art