Canon EOS 7D (with 28-135mm lens)

• Average user rating: 4.5 stars out of 14 reviews
• My rating: 0 stars

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• 10 stars

  Does the 7D Beat Full Frame Cameras?

  by DavidCameraCrazy on February 26, 2011

  Pros: + Amazing quality
  + Live view is great
  + HD video is amazing
  + Battery life is better than expected
  + Low light performance is great
  + 19 point AF system amazingly fast and accurate
  + 3-inch LCD is very nice for viewing an

  Cons: - Rolling shutter
  - Not a full-frame sensor
  - Weight

  Summary: No, but it's so good that one starts to contemplate this question, which was never the case before the 7D was introduced. Both systems, crop and full frame, have ...

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  Summary: No, but it's so good that one starts to contemplate this question, which was never the case before the 7D was introduced. Both systems, crop and full frame, have their pros and cons and place in photography. But before I get into that let me say I have not been as excited about a camera since the introduction of the 5D MK I four years ago. That's because the 7D raises the crop camera bar to the point where crop users will not feel at a disadvantage to full frame camera users, especially if coupled with awesome ef-s lenses such as the 17-55 f2.8.
  
  How so? The 7D sets a new standard in four major ways.
  
  1. It produces whopping 18MP pictures, which are just 3MP shy of the current top of the line full frame Canon cameras. Just few years ago most pros were producing stellar results using the 1Ds MKII 16MP camera. Now you have more MPs in a crop sensor, that's a major achievement. This achievement translates into bigger prints and, perhaps more importantly, cropping power. Out shooting wildlife with a 300mm instead of 400mm? You can crop the 7D files down to 50% of their original file size and still obtain sharp pictures. It's just not that easy with the 1D MK III 10MP files.
  
  2. Many worried that extra MPs in small crop sensors would translate into nosier pictures, but the amazing thing is that this camera produces images with what seems to be less noise than the 1Ds MKII. The noise level is very good. At ISO 1600 I still prefer pictures coming from my 5D MKII, but below ISO1600 they are very close. Frankly, I can go with either camera because most of my professionally shot portraits and product pictures are shot at ISO100. At ISO100 both produce very clean files and are practically indistinguishable.
  
  3. Focus is the one area that was lacking on the previous 1.6 crop Canon cameras and this camera changes that. It's not a 1D in focus speed and accuracy, but it's the next best thing compared to them. It's faster than the Canon 5D MKII, which is known to be slightly faster or around the focus performance range of the 50D and 40D.
  
  4. The drive chain is fast, so fast it's beyond anything I needed in my professional work in portrait, commercial, and product photography. Going through pictures taken at 8fps produces very little difference from frame to frame. One probably has to shoot a very fast moving subject/object to see the advantage of such fast drive system.
  
  There are obviously many other things that I have not covered in this review. But based on the above, all I can say is that this camera has really raised the bar for all cameras and made it much more affordable to obtain a professional level camera for all types of photography. If you were considering buying the 5D MKII as an upgrade give this camera a test because it might be all you need.
  
  
  As for the advantages of crop cameras I always find it odd that casual users who shoot many things but focus on landscape think they need a full frame to realize their potential. Crop cameras such as the 7D and 50D are fine for most users and offer many advantages including:
  
  1. greater depth of field at lower aperture for landscape photography
  
  2. greater tilt and shift effect because of sensor size relative to effect (8mm in shift is greater in effect relative to a 22mm sensor compared to a 35mm sensor)
  
  3. greater magnification with micro lenses and extension tubes because of smaller sensor (1:1 in full frame equals 35mm, 1:1 in crop equals 22mm)
  
  4. smaller lighter lenses with wider aperture that achieve greater reach (such as the 17-55 2.8 vs the 24-70 2.8 similar reach but much lighter and smaller)
  
  
  Traditionally the three areas full frame cameras outshine crop cameras are a bigger brighter viewfinder, shallower depth of field for portrait photography, and better ISO performance, which on the last point the 7D has proven not be an issue anymore.
  
  And for the second point really, most beautiful low depth of field portraits are done around f2.8-2.0 in full frame (going wider will make depth of field too narrow to place two eyes in focus). Hence, if one is using a wide prime, a crop sensor will produce the same depth of field at 2.0-1.4. Considering an affordable 50mm f1.4 lens on crop has the same field of view as 85mm lens on full frame there is really no reason to discount a crop camera any more as the 7D levels the playing field.

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  22 out of 24 users found this user opinion helpful.

• 10 stars

  Outstanding quality and features for this price point

  by gmcfalls on October 21, 2009

  Pros: Great build quality, excellent feature set, included lens is very good and performs well in low-light shooting, buttons are in fairly good positions, changing options requires very few button clicks. I love the leveling feature as well.

  Cons: Doesn't work well with my Quandary flash. When using the flash, the computer can't seem to decide what to do. This results in a lot of flash adjustments and misfires. Especially in eTTL mode. I plan on upgrading to a Canon Speedlite flash.

  Summary: I would definitely recommend this product to any shooter that's looking to make the jump from entry level dSLR or film SLR to a pro model. This is definitely ...

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  Summary: I would definitely recommend this product to any shooter that's looking to make the jump from entry level dSLR or film SLR to a pro model. This is definitely a pro's camera. There are no 'Sport', 'Night', etc... presets like on the Canon XSi. You simply need to be experienced at knowing what ISO vs shutter speed vs aperature will do to the final picture. The camera does have a full auto mode, but this defeats the purpose of the camera and I can't see too many people using this. When I used full auto, it usually set the ISO setting too high resulting in a grainy image. My preference is to keep ISO as low as possible. Even with shutter speeds as long as 1/4", I was able to obtain a clear image due to the lens' image stabilization feature. I was not able to get a good image beyond 1/4". Beyond that, I would need a tripod.
  
  I have been shooting for almost 10 years on various digital cameras from point and shoots to this pro level model. There are advantages to point and shoots that shouldn't be overlooked. if you're a vacation shooter or only use a camera every once in a while, this is probably not the camera for you. This is mainly because of the expansive feature set. There are a lot of different ways to get to the different features. Just changing WB requires some memorization of which keys do what. I imagine this will frustrate the sporadic user. I've previously used the XSi from Canon which produced beautiful images if this is your typical usage.
  
  The main advantage to the 7D is the picture quality - especially with the included lens. The 28-135mm lens is fantastic. It's built well, the image stabilization is very good, and it is easy/quick to focus. When you combine this lens with the excellent viewfinder in the 7D, it's almost easy to shoot great shots. The only real issue I had is when I wanted to change the AF point or metering zone. I'm a fairly technically adept person and I had a hard time remembering how to do this.
  
  From a pro standpoint, it has features that you wouldn't expect on a camera for under $2k. 9fps is great (especially at 18MP), but 30fps 1080p video? This is amazing. The video quality is almost awe inspiring and has opened a whole other world of creative possibilities. The camera features remote flash capabilities, remote trigger options like bulb mode (you control how long the aperature is open which is great for fireworks or night-time street scenes). It is a heavy camera that can be difficult to use for extended periods and the LCD doesn't swivel out which is annoying in movie mode, but no camera is perfect. For $1699 (body only), you can't beat the features.
  
  Compared to a D90 or D300, it does take better pictures and feels better in your hand. Obviously, the Mark series is the flagship and is considerably better in harsh environments. I'm not sure I'd feel comfortable shooting sports events in the snow or rain - I would not think twice about it with a Mark III. If you're a true pro that makes a living on photography, the Mark series (and newly released 1D Mark IV) is the camera for you. if you're an aspiring pro (like me) and are trying to establish an impressive portfolio, this is a minimal investment to pursue your dreams - and it produces professional level photos.

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  6 out of 6 users found this user opinion helpful.

• 10 stars

  Excellent image quality, 1080p HD video, great camera

  by pmignini on October 30, 2009

  Pros: Feature set, HD video @ 1080p+, decent kit lens, good flash, 100% viewfinder, customizability + auto modes, 8 fps option, build quality, so many others

  Cons: Steep learning curve for former non-dSLR users, video can stutter (may be user error!), video sound only OK

  Summary: Often times, one looks at the options for an electronics or camera product and ends up choosing the model that has the fewest compromises, despite the fact that the best ...

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  Summary: Often times, one looks at the options for an electronics or camera product and ends up choosing the model that has the fewest compromises, despite the fact that the best choice always has at least some level of compromise. The Canon EOS 7D is the first product I've seen for which I've seen no compromises. It truly seems that Canon surveyed customers and said, "based on the video/dSLR options out there, ours and others, what would make the best camera," took nearly every good suggestion and put it into this camera. I am very impressed so far.
  
  I wanted to move from point and shoot to dSLR, one that included quality HD video. I realized there would be a steep learning curve, however I used to have an AE1 (old film SLR) and was comfortable using that, so I decided to take the plunge. My criteria were straightforward, and included:
  - under $2k
  - quality lens options plus a good zoom kit lens
  - HD video with few limitations in terms of frame rate, focus, clip length
  - quality images even in low light
  - a simplified auto mode in addition to custom settings
  
  I was considering the 5D Mark 2 and Nikon cameras with HD, but for reasons of cost (5D) and limits on video (Nikon) I decided to wait.
  
  The 7D met all my criteria and more. The 100% optical viewfinder ensures that every shot is framed exactly as one sees. Shots taken in "auto" mode are generally clear and crisp in high and moderate light. Using a 16 GB CompactFlash card, I can shoot hundreds of high quality shots or nearly an hour of 1080p HD video. Battery life is excellent so far (had the camera 3 weeks).
  
  I never thought I'd care about multiple consecutive shots, but the 8 frames per second is fantastic for taking action shots, for example, at a kids soccer game. Live view enables one to frame and shoot via the clear, bright 3" LCD.
  
  The manual is clearly written, though I am still working through it given my lack of dSLR experience. I suspect existing dSLR or custom-settings users will have a far easier time with the breadth of settings and options. I will say that settings are easy to access and change using a scroll wheel/button combination or one of the many setting-specific buttons or dials on the camera. Inexperienced users of dSLR should simply prepare for a steep learning curve, though you can start using auto-mode right out of the box.
  
  Video has excellent image quality, but the single mono microphone on the camera is only fair. It picks up every movement of the camera, and has limited range. I recommend an external stereo mike for better videos. I mention that the video I've taken stutters a bit, but frankly I think that is my error on settings or something. I still have 100+ pages of the manual to finish, and hope to figure it out.
  
  I've read some comments elsewhere about the "compromise" of an APC-S sensor vs a full frame sensor. Were I a professional, I might have issues. That said, I see extraordinary image quality, likely due to the dual digic 4 processors and the overall quality of the 7D. I imagine that this will not be an issue for anyone except those very few who require a full-frame sensor.
  
  The camera's build is very sturdy. It is well weather-sealed, of sturdy material and solid feel. I appreciate the built-in sensor cleaning system and the quick and easy on/off lenses as well.
  
  I admit I purchased this before seeing reviews on Cnet or dpreview.com, but I needed it for family events and couldn't wait. So far, no disappointment.
  
  Overall, I highly recommend this camera. If you have a lot of disposable cash and must have a full frame model, get the 5D Mark II, otherwise, this is an outstanding camera with none of the typical feature, build quality, usability or other issues associated with mid-range dSLRs.
  
  PS. FYI, I've been watching prices on eBay, Cnet, and elsewhere for this model. The lowest prices from reputable sellers from whom Canon honors the warranty are $1699 body, $1899 with 28-135mm kit lens as of October 27, 2009. I suspect this will not change for awhile, because it appears there are very limited supplies of the camera in market, at least in the USA.

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  2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.

• 10 stars

  Holy Smokes this baby humms like a kitten!

  by stanmcq on October 27, 2009

  Pros: Fast, full featured, great kit lens, feels like a real camera in your hands!

  Cons: You've got to be kidding?

  Summary: Have been looking to move up from 2 Canon point n shoots with RAW to DSLR for some time now. Just tried the new T1i and it was fast, but ...

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  Summary: Have been looking to move up from 2 Canon point n shoots with RAW to DSLR for some time now. Just tried the new T1i and it was fast, but plastic lens in the kit and body didn't impress me, neither did the quality of the shots. The 7D did impress the heck out of me, all I could keep saying was "Holy Sh**" and I mean it in a good way!
  The features are all there, you just have to read the book and you'll find them. Quiet and built like a tank, I love it!

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  2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.

• 10 stars

  GET A REVIEW UNIT UP

  by TheDevinMan on November 13, 2009

  Pros: I HAVE USED YOU GUYS FOR EVERYTHING, MOST OF THE TIME YOU GUYS ARE PRETTY QUICK AT GETTING UP REVIEWS, BUT NOT WITH THIS CAMERA, A MUST FOR REVIEWS!!!

  Cons: GET A REVIEW UNIT UP PLEASE!!

  Summary: PLEASE GET A REVIEW UNIT UP!!

  Summary: PLEASE GET A REVIEW UNIT UP!!

  2 out of 4 users found this user opinion helpful.

• 10 stars

  I bought this camera mostly because it's a Canon.

  by hallieb99 on June 12, 2012

  Pros: My other digitals were too automatic.point and shoot, I wanted a manual camera that could also help me. Going to manual on the 7D was a fairly easy after years with my F1. I suggest going to the book store and getting a EOS 7D book.

  Cons: It wasn't the easiest thing to learn which dial to turn or button to push when your in a hurry and trying to take a fast manual shot. The solution, I switched to automatic, fixed. My Canon F1 was very fast and easier to adjust in manual.

  Summary: Let me give the non tech version of a summary. This camera is easy to use reaasonably priced, and most of all I found I could close my black and ...

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  Summary: Let me give the non tech version of a summary. This camera is easy to use reaasonably priced, and most of all I found I could close my black and white lab, and pay for the camera with the savings on film, processing, and chemicals.
  
  Old tiime yes, there were some great pluses but the 7D almost eliminated every possible objection to moving from film for art. Besides I actually had enough of film and digiital has come of age and with CS5 what more could you need.
  
  Also I found an adapter for all my manual FD lenses -- or about +/-$7,500 saved in new lenses.
  
  Some say the 7D is fairly heavy, I find it a good trade off for setting aside my power and pro shot cameras my point and shoot models. I still can use small pocket cameras for snap shots but I wanted great pictures and the price was a bigger camera bag. LoL (:-)
  
  The reality is that for years of using point and shoots I didn't feel like a photographer. I lost the art, for a while, the 7D brought it back. This camera brings back the excitement, fun, and the art. Even though it is bigger - the 7D goes where I go. You never know where the next shot lies - epsecially if you don't want snap shots.

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• 1 stars

  Both the camera and this lens are useless. Avoid them.

  by Theepdinker on March 22, 2012

  Pros: High frame rate
  Good metering

  Cons: Lousy focus
  Will not focus at infinity or any distance over about 75ft
  Some parts of image may be in focus but they aren't the bits that the camera thinks it's focused on.

  Summary: Pathetic. The 7d has great tracking and on high speed mode it will almost focus 8 times per second, unfortunately it won't actually focus crisply and sharply any times ...

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  Summary: Pathetic. The 7d has great tracking and on high speed mode it will almost focus 8 times per second, unfortunately it won't actually focus crisply and sharply any times per second.
  
  Put a long lens on it, focus on the full moon and take a shot at about 1/500th of a second and the images are blurred. The moon isn't exactly whizzing across the sky is it? a shot at 1/30th should stop it dead so 1/500 should be overkill but it still won't be clear. The camera will bleep and show where it thinks the focus point is, but it's not focused.
  
  I bought it mainly for wildlife photography, particularly water birds. The camera might focus somewhere in the shot but no-where near the area where the focus is set.
  
  In less than 12 months I sent the camera for servicing 3 times, this took about 2 months in total and it still doesn't focus correctly.
  
  As for the 28-135, save your money and buy a real lens. I shot a wedding with this lens shortly after buying the 7d, most images are soft. In several of them I took photo's of couples sitting side by side with their heads touching, I shot at f8 and about 1/200th of a second with flash. One of the people is in focus, the other is blurred, despite being exactly the same distance from the lens and not moving. Try telling a bride that it's the cameras fault.
  
  Ok, maybe I got the lunchtime special but 3 services by Canon should have sorted it out. My other camera, a 5d (mk 1) works perfectly with any lens except the 28-135.

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• 10 stars

  Top of the line-amazing in so many aspects.

  by msterling1 on July 30, 2010

  Pros: Simply everything. The AF is amazing, the kit-lens is spectacular, it feel ultra-comfortable in hands, well-worth the money I spent, durable, portable, probably now considered an essential on vacations and special outings.

  Cons: Nothing. I haven't found much wrong at all.

  Summary: When I first started looking into Dslrs, I thought I should go for a low-priced camera. However, I leap-frogged from a point and shoot to this camera. I must say, ...

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  Summary: When I first started looking into Dslrs, I thought I should go for a low-priced camera. However, I leap-frogged from a point and shoot to this camera. I must say, it took a little while to get used to, but not too long. It feels perfect in my hands. The AF is extremely accurate; it rarely fails, but when it does, MF captures just as much detail. I've had a couple months with this camera now, and I must say, it is most-definitely one of the best. I can rely on it to take a shot when I need it. Not to mention, I can rely on the Auto, however I prefer Creative Auto so that I can change some settings. The flash works very well. There is a very limited amount of noise at high ISO levels.
  
  I have become so attached and love the camera so much that I've actually named it Jason. If that doesn't sum up how amazing this camera is, I am more than willing to continue.
  
  It works in hight humidity (Florida), rain, and freezing temperatures. I can rely on the 18MP to get the shot that I need, even if am unable to 'zoom' far enough. Cropping still gives me a sharp and crisp photo. The colors in the camera come out mostly true, only in bright oranges and hot-pinks are there color issues, minor. However, that can always be fixed by adjusting your settings. The viewfinder is a perfect size, at least for someone like me. The video capture is absolutely amazing.
  
  I haven't once failed, using this camera, to capture a particular moment in time that passes by quickly because of the fast shutterspeed options.
  
  This camera is definitely worth the price, probably even more. Way better than the Nikon D300s, and Canon Rebel T2i. You will not regret buying this amazing investment.

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• 10 stars

  Great Camera at a very low price compare to the counter

  by kawidesigns on May 17, 2010

  Pros: Great under low light, awesome video quality, deficiency with the audio is easy to fix with the input audio jack, worh with both EF and L lenses, very affordable with great kit lenses for the price, heavy but very dependable and easy to manuever.

  Cons: The camera is so good that soon after purcharsing it you will be spending lot more money in extra lenses, bags, mics, and many other asccesories.

  Summary: The Bottom-line is that I have no regret purchasing this camera. I shoot great SUNSETS, SUNRISE, EVERY MOMENT OF MY KIDS LIFE FOR THE LAST THREE WEEKS and my wife ...

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  Summary: The Bottom-line is that I have no regret purchasing this camera. I shoot great SUNSETS, SUNRISE, EVERY MOMENT OF MY KIDS LIFE FOR THE LAST THREE WEEKS and my wife is happy becasue she have plenty images to do scrap booking. Amazing how Canon made a better camera than Nikin for less money.

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• 10 stars

  I am not a pro before I bought this

  by meduri9 on April 25, 2010

  Pros: Sturdy body, Stability in use, Full HD movie, Response to take a shot.

  Cons: Huge learning curve, Heavy

  Summary: I was using a simple 4MP Kodak easy share for several years as photography was not my cup of tea. Once I got some snaps from friends that were shot ...

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  Summary: I was using a simple 4MP Kodak easy share for several years as photography was not my cup of tea. Once I got some snaps from friends that were shot on a Canon. That's it. The fever chased me to buy this. I am glad I did. I no longer on the receiving side of photos. I am now sending amazing snaps to friends.
  
  Thanks Canon.

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