New Equipment ~ New Toys

I was able to get my hands on a new Canon 5D Mark II DSLR a few weeks ago. This is not a review of the camera, there are plenty of those out there already. I know because I read a ton of them before making the plunge.

Canon claims that the image sensor in this full frame camera is actually better than that of its current model flagship 1Ds Mark III. I was very glad to hear that. While discussing this camera with a photog friend of mine, he mentioned he believes the image quality has surpassed that of a medium format film camera. Generally speaking, I have been under the impression that if you had an image that was to be used for large scale printing, (perhaps a billboard) you needed a medium or large format camera. With current technology, you can size up an image from a camera like the 5D pretty huge. I can't wait to blow something up real big.

I plan on using this camera for portraits and images requiring a wide angle. It excells at producing detail, skin tones, high dynamic range, etc. Basically, perfect for a wedding. My old primary camera now becomes a backup in many situations. As Mr. Hobby says: "If your only camera goes out of commision, your not a photographer anymore." How true. Always have a backup everything.

Having more than one camera also alows you to work more quickly. No more having to change lenses so much, just carry two bodies. I have been keeping a telephoto on my 20D with the 1.6X crop, and wide angle lenses (mostly my new 17-40L f/4) on my 5D2. The 20D really like telephoto lenses since everything is automatically magnified by 1.6. The camera uses the "sweet spot" on the lens as an added bonus. The 5D2 is a full frame sensor camera that seems to like wide angle lenses. Especially with the built-in anti-vingetting feature in camera.

In conclusion: I love the new 5D. It really takes care of me, and you know I will be taking care of this new baby.