Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only)
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Remember the Essentials
A lens and memory card are not included with the camera.
Get the type of lens for the shot you need, and a high-capacity memory card so you don't get caught without memory.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II (Body Only) improves upon the EOS 5D by increasing the resolution by about 40% to 21.1 megapixels and adds a Live View feature that allows users to preview shots on the camera's high resolution 3.0" LCD display. It even incorporates the ability to record full motion HD Video with sound, so you can capture the action as well as superb images.
The camera's 21.1MP, full-frame 35mm-format (24x36mm) CMOS sensor captures image files with incredible image quality and color accuracy, as either JPEG, RAW and RAW+JPEG files. The camera also incorporates Canon's acclaimed DIGIC 4 imaging processor that works in concert with a high-speed DDR-SDRAM buffer to ensure quick performance and fast image processing times. Performance enhancements enabled by the DIGIC 4 processor include an incredibly fast full-resolution frame rate of up to 3.9 fps, improved battery life, noticeably improved image quality at all ISO sensitivities, fast start-up and reaction times, and improved noise suppression at ISO sensitivities ranging from ISO 100 to ISO 6400, plus the camera's sensitivity is further expandable to a range of ISO 50 to ISO 25600.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II incorporates a high-fidelity (920,000 dot) 3" LCD screen and includes a 'Live View' feature that permits the user to frame their shots on the LCD display, and adds framing functions that are not possible with a traditional SLR viewfinder, including the ability to zoom in and navigate the preview image to ensure proper focus, and a grid overlay to assist in proper composition. The Live View focusing system also enables focus modes such as Quick mode, Live mode and Face Detection Live mode. Furthermore, the Live View Feature enables HD video recording that can capture true HD-quality (1080p) video at a frame rate of 30 fps with Face Detection and sound.
The magnesium-alloy chassis of the EOS 5D Mark II ensures the durability of the camera so users can take it on safari or to a press junket and be assured that the camera can take it. In addition the camera body incorporates extensive dust and weatherproofing features including seals and gaskets where body panels and/or camera controls meet. To further keep the imaging sensor free from dust, Canon's EOS Integrated Cleaning System uses ultrasonic vibrations to shake dust particles off of the sensor's low-pass filter each time you power up (or manually when needed). This ensures that your images will be spot free and reduces time needed for image retouching.
Other professional quality features found on the Canon EOS 5D Mark II include 14-bit A/D conversion, a bright viewfinder (with 98% image coverage), Auto Light Optimizer, Lens Peripheral Illumination Correction, 9-point AF plus 6-point assist AF, 25 Custom Functions with 71 settings, and 5 metering modes (35-Zone EV, 8% Partial Spot, 3.5% Spot, Center-Weighted, and Pre-Flash E-TTL II). Altogether, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II has been designed to serve the needs and interests of serious enthusiasts as well as professional photographers who are in pursuit of the perfect image.
- 21.1 Megapixel Full-frame CMOS Sensor
- Developed by Canon, the high-resolution, 35mm full-frame CMOS image sensor incorporated into the EOS 5D Mark II sets the standard for its class, featuring a remarkable 21.1 million effective pixels for a maximum recorded resolution of 5616 x 3744 pixels. And since the image sensor is full-frame, all lenses used with the camera provide the angle of view that was intended by the manufacturer - this is of particular importance for photographers that often use wide-angle lenses and other specialty lenses.
- DIGIC 4 Image Processor
-
DIGIC 4 is Canon's latest advanced imaging processor that transforms data from the large CMOS sensor at extremely high speed for photos of exceptional quality and definition. This accelerated performance contributes to highly responsive and user-friendly operation, including a fast continuous shooting speed. The DIGIC 4 processor also enables a number of processor intensive operations like Face Detection Live mode, HD video recording and lighting and lens peripheral optimization.
- Live View Function
- The Live View Function on the EOS 5D Mark II provides users with a convenient way to frame images, by allowing for the cameras 3.0" LCD display to be used as a viewfinder - bringing a powerful feature from the compact camera world to the professional digital SLR. Live View is particularly useful when shooting at odd angles or when doing macro photography. The Live View feature also enables the ability to zoom in and navigate the composition 5x or 10x normal size; there is even a grid overlay feature to aid in the composition of your images. This feature also enables the Live View focusing modes which include the Quick mode, Live mode and Face Detection Live mode.
- Picture Style Settings
- Like choosing film for a film camera, users can choose a style from Picture Styles that is ideally suited to the subject or shooting objective. Users can select from 6 preset image style settings (Standard, Portrait, Landscape, Neutral, Faithful and Monochrome) and 3 user-defined styles, depending on their particular subject, shooting conditions and photographic intentions.
- Record HD Video
- The EOS 5D Mark II is unusual among SLR digital cameras in that it is capable of recording full HD video, and it's the camera's Live View function that makes it possible. You'll record video clips in full High-Definition with 1080p image quality and a capture frame rate of 30 fps with sound. Users can even attach an external microphone for recording professional-quality audio with the video, and all Live View AF features can be used when the camera is shooting video. Furthermore, users can play back video clips on an HDTV display with higher quality with the camera's HDMI Video output (optional cable required).
- 9-Point AF Sensor Array
- The newly developed 9-point AF sensor with 6 Assist AF points provides speedy and precise focus detection plus enlarged subject coverage. With an extra 6 AF assist points added to the spot metering circle, the EOS 5D enables highly detailed focusing around the center of an image in AI Servo AF mode. Of the 9 primary AF points, the high-precision cross-type center AF point is compatible with f/2.8 and f/5.6 lenses, while 8 sensors are sensitive to f/5.6. Upper and lower central points, 2 of the 6 Assist AF points, are also f/2.8 and f/5.6 compatible. All focusing points are configured for quick focus in any shooting situation.
- Durable Shutter
- An extremely fast, highly durable shutter unit has been especially developed to match the EOS 5D mark II's full-frame 35mm CMOS sensor. The high-torque shutter-cocking mechanism is rated to 150,000 shots, attaining speeds from 1/8000 sec. to 30 sec. and bulb. The unit's flash synchronization (X-sync) function uses an optically detected, contactless switch instead of a mechanical one, which contributes to high durability and reliability when a Speedlite is used and yields an X-sync shutter speed of 1/200 sec.
- 3.0-Inch High-Resolution LCD Screen
- The 3.0-inch TFT color LCD monitor has 920,000 (VGA) pixels allows users to scrutinize the finest details of their images either during Live View previews or when reviewing images after the shoot. The display is treated with an anti-reflection and water-repellant coating that provides a clear, smudge-resistant surface and incorporates a light sensor for automatic brightness adjustment in accordance with ambient light. Users can clearly view graphics and text on the screen and it provides easy-to-read menus, a full-featured info screen complete with RGB histogram and AF frame displays, and the ability of users to enlarge images right after shooting.
- 3.9 Frames-per-Second (fps) Shooting
- Driven by the advanced DIGIC 4 imaging engine, the EOS 5D Mark II achieves a remarkable 3.9 fps consecutive shooting speed during maximum bursts of 78 shots for Large/Fine JPEG shots (13 shots for RAW images). For rare photo opportunities, the amazingly quick startup and short shutter release time lag will also help you capture the moment without delay.
- Compatible With Over 60 Canon EF Lenses
- The EOS 5D Mark II is compatible with all Canon lenses in the EF lineup (except EF-S lenses), ranging from 14mm Ultra-Wide to 600mm Super Telephoto lenses. The EF lineup employs advanced optical know-how and sub-micron precision engineering to deliver unprecedented performance in all facets of the photographic process. Aspherical optics and fluorite elements, for example, are featured in the universally acclaimed L-series lenses while Canon's Image Stabilization feature minimizes the effect of camera shake.
- Lens Peripheral Illumination Correction
- Canon's exclusive Lens Peripheral Illumination Correction function corrects for light falloff at the corners of the frame for evenly illuminated images. The camera automatically loads this correction data for many of canon's lenses and correction information can be entered manually through the included Canon EOS Utility software when using lenses that cannot be automatically corrected for.
- Flash Photography Features
- The EOS 5D mark II features Canon's E-TTL II flash metering system, which provides consistently accurate flash exposure from shot to shot. Canon's Speedlite 580EX and 430EX are perfectly suited to the EOS 5D. They include an AF-Assist Beam, which works in conjunction with the EOS 5D's focusing system and automatically sends color temperature information to the camera when the flash fires, for more accurate color rendition with flash photography.
- Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E4A
- The optional WFT-E4A accessory allows photographers to transmit images from their cameras directly to a computer over a wireless local area network (LAN).
- Compatible with PictBridge Printers
- The EOS 5D Mark II helps optimize every shot with expanded PictBridge functionality. Printing beautiful photos is still done with minimum time and effort; connect to a PictBridge-compatible printer via USB port, select your image and print settings, and press the Direct Print button.
- Solid Construction and Sophisticated Design
- Highly durable yet elegantly refined, the body of the EOS 5D Mark II can be handled with remarkable ease. It features a highly rigid magnesium alloy exterior (including the Battery Grip BG-E6), a solid stainless-steel internal chassis, and a mirror box of high-strength engineering plastic. Balance is effortlessly maintained from the redesigned grip to the top of a Speedlite flash unit. With a front groove on the grip for the middle finger to the enhanced metallic feel of the Mode Dial, this camera assures greater stability at every point.
Go To
| Imaging | |
|---|---|
| Camera Type | Digital SLR with Interchangeable lenses |
| Lens Mount | Canon EF |
| Camera Format | Full-Frame |
| Resolution |
Effective Pixels: 22.0 Megapixels |
| Sensor Type / Size | CMOS, 36 x 24 mm |
| File Formats |
Still Images: JPEG, RAW Movies: MOV |
| Bit Depth | 14-bit |
| Memory Card Type | CompactFlash |
| AV Recording | |
|---|---|
| Video Recording | Yes, NTSC/PAL |
| Aspect Ratio | 3:2, 16:9 |
| Video Clip Length | Up to 12 Minutes |
| Audio Recording | With Video |
| Focus Control | |
|---|---|
| Focus Type | Auto & Manual |
| Viewfinder/Display | |
|---|---|
| Viewfinder Type | Pentaprism |
| Viewfinder Coverage | 98% |
| Display Screen | 3" Rear Screen LCD (920000) |
| Exposure Control | |
|---|---|
| ISO Sensitivity | 100-6400 (High Sensitivity Mode: 50-25600) |
| Shutter |
Type: Electronic & Mechanical Speed: 30 - 1/8000 sec |
| Remote Control | N3-type remote (Optional) |
| Mirror Lock-Up | Yes |
| Metering Method | Spot metering, Center-weighted average metering, null |
| Exposure Modes | Modes: Aperture Priority, Auto, Manual, Program, Shutter Priority |
| White Balance Modes | Auto, Cloudy, Daylight, Flash, Fluorescent, Kelvin, Manual, Shade, Tungsten |
| Flash | |
|---|---|
| Max Sync Speed | 1 / 200 sec |
| Continuous Shooting | Up to 3.9 fps |
| External Flash Connection | Hot Shoe, PC Terminal |
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Self Timer | 2 sec, 10 sec |
| Interval Recording | No |
| Connectivity | AV Output, HDMI C (Mini), USB 2.0 |
| Wi-Fi Capable (With Optional Transmitter) | Yes |
| Software Requirements |
Windows: 2000, XP, Vista Mac: OS X 10.3 or later |
| Power | |
|---|---|
| Battery | 1x LP-E6 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack |
| AC Power Adapter | AC Adapter Kit ACK-E6 (Optional) |
| Operating/Storage Temperature |
Operating 32 to 104 °F (0 to 40 °C) Humidity: 0 - 85% |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 6.0 x 4.5 x 3.0" / 15.24 x 11.43 x 7.62 cm |
| Weight | 28.6 oz / 811 g |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 1482 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
99%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Large clear LCD (1148)
- Good image quality (1111)
- Easy to use (1047)
- High ISO performance (971)
- Fast shutter speed (755)
Cons
- Short battery life (48)
- Noisy at high ISO (41)
- Heavy (34)
- Slow focus (33)
- Lag / shutter delay (30)
Best Uses
- Landscape/scenery (1011)
- Travel (812)
- Low light (804)
- Weddings (758)
- Video (519)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Pro photographer (556), Semi-pro photographer (533), Photo enthusiast (314), Casual photographer (43), Photography student (6)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (763), Yes (58)
Most Liked Positive Review
Mixed Feelings about the 5D MkII
First the good...
If you're looking for an excellent, full-frame DSLR, the 5D Mk2 is very, very good. It's at least 1 full F-stop more sensitive to light than...Read complete review
First the good...
If you're looking for an excellent, full-frame DSLR, the 5D Mk2 is very, very good. It's at least 1 full F-stop more sensitive to light than my Canon 1DS Mk2. A setting of ASA 800 or 1000 yields about the same noise level as my older camera at ASA 400. It's autofocus system is very fast and accurate on single shot mode. (I don't think EF-L series lenses are capable of faster focus action.)
The new LCD screen is gorgeous. 3" diagonal with 900,000+ pixels. It's possibly the best quality LCD screen ever put on a DSLR. The menus are easier to understand and navigate than the 1DS Mk2's menus. "Live View" is an excellent way to do critical focusing. If you've never used a DSLR with live view, you'll love it. The only negative of live-view is that it really drains your battery and it can only be used for a certain length of time before the CMOS imager circuitry heats up, adding noise to the image. (In real-life typical shooting, overheating is not a problem and besides the camera will auto cancel live-view if it senses an over temperature condition.)
The huge 21 mega-pixel RAW images are excellent. The camera uses an updated variant on Canon's .CR2 RAW format so if you use an older version of Adobe's Lightroom or Photoshop for image processing, you'll need the latest Lightroom 2.2 or Photoshop CS4 to get the proper RAW converter. I've personally never liked the included software for RAW image processing, but many people are happy with it.
The auto-exposure system seems very accurate... more accurate than my 1DS Mk2.
I never experienced any "black dot" phenomenon. But I've only shot RAW images at less than 1200 ASA.
I ordered the camera with the optional BG-E6 battery grip. This grip makes the camera taller and easier to hold. It allows simultaneous use of 2 Canon lithium batteries or 6- AA alkaline or rechargeables. It's a very valuable accessory to consider.
Now the bad...
I primarily purchased the camera for its ability to shoot great looking 1080P HD video for commercial TV projects. I thought it would be a great source for "B-Roll" cutaways and inserts.
The biggest single problem in the video mode is that you have no control over iris, ISO setting, or shutter speed. There's an exposure lock button that will lock the exposure variables to whatever the LCD displays at the time you press the button. There are no on-screen indicators that show the settings that the camera has chosen for you. The only control you have is the color temperature setting. Basically, you pan the camera around in the scene and let the brightness float up and down. When you see what you think is a good exposure on the rear LCD screen, you press the lock button. Since the exposure lock resets after each scene or take, chances are you won't have consistent exposures over multiple takes of a particular scene.
Working with the auto exposure system can sometimes be difficult. I was shooting with my 85mm F1.2 lens. By looking at the iris, it appeared the camera had decided to only open the lens to about an F2.8 and use a much higher ISO setting than necessary to achieve proper exposure. By pointing the camera to some very dark shadows, the iris fully opened. I then panned back to my original scene which appeared to be much cleaner and free of noise. You really need to be able to manually set the ISO & F-stop when shooting video.
I adjusted the camera's custom settings to lower the detail enhancement and contrast. These controls effect the quality of jpeg stills but seem to have no effect on a video recording.
The camera only records at 30.00fps, not 29.97fps. This tiny .03fps difference means that you have to alter each file's header, using a program such as Apple Cinema Tools, before you can edit 5D footage into a normal, broadcast 1080P/1080i, 29.97fps timeline. Failure to do this header alteration requires setting up a 30.00fps timeline or rendering every 5D scene on your 29.97fps timeline which yields periodic skipped frames.
There is no 24P (23.98) setting. As far as I'm concerned, there is no logical reason that Canon chose 30.00fps instead of 29.97fps. No broadcast TV or film standard operates at 30.00fps. Maybe Canon will correct this with a future firmware update. Please note that if you're only shooting high quality videos for web release, the 30.00fps speed won't present a problem.
To simulate the film-like cadence of a movie camera's 180 degree shutter at 30.00fps, the 5D Mk2's shutter should be set to 1/60 of a second exposure time. There is no way to tell what shutter setting the camera is using during a scene. My gut feeling from looking at camera video is that the 5D Mk2 often uses 1/30 of a second.
The camera's LCD screen is blanked whenever an HDMI monitor is plugged in. If you're doing a commercial shoot with clients, this means that either the cameraman or the clients can see what's being shot, but not both at the same time... You could add an external HDMI active splitter, but this would also require adding and using an external monitor at the camera. If you only plan to shoot by yourself, this shouldn't present a problem.
To do manual follow-focusing using the rear LCD screen, consider purchasing Hoodman's 3" LCD viewer. It's available from B&H and other retailers and it works very well. Of course, you'll have to figure a custom way to attach it to the back of the 5D Mk2 using rubber bands or Velcro.
The 5D Mk2 records what I would call "memo quality" audio with it's internal, mono microphone. You really notice the AGC raising and lowering the recording volume. If someone claps their hands, coughs, or makes a loud sound, the audio level and background sound dives down, then very noticeably fades back up. There is no headphone output or on-screen audio display so there's no way to confirm the level of your audio. If you plug an external mic into the camera, there is no indication to confirm even the presence of an audio signal. The only thing you can do is record a scene, then playback and carefully listen to the recorded file. If you plan to use this camera on a professional sync-sound project, you'd really have to consider double system sound recording. Recoding the audio on a separate recorder adds a major level of increased hassle but it's the only way to insure excellent audio. The audio from the camera's recording can be used as a post-production sync reference.
Another audio question is why Canon chose to record audio at a sample rate of 44.1kz instead of the industry standard 48kz. Apple's Final Cut Pro can handle almost any sample rate but other NLE's can't. Once again, if you're only shooting video for web release, the CD sample rate of 44.1kz shouldn't present a problem.
In certain low light or low contrast scenes, the H.264 encoding block artifacts are noticeable. In my opinion, the 5D Mk2 artifacts are more noticeable than the H.264 encoding used in Canon's own HF10, 1080 video camera even though the 5D's recorded bit rate is higher.
The camera's signal-to-noise ratio is very good and very clean. It's a more noise-free video picture than my $80,000 Sony F900R HDCam... except for the color red. Red objects are noisy. Most colors in a scene seem noise free, except red. This is especially true with low brightness red objects such as those in shadow areas.
The 5D Mk2 exhibits no "rolling shutter" characteristics that are associated with Nikon's D90.
The 5D Mk2 has the characteristic of clipping to "flat-line" black very low-light or shadow details in an image. This yields a "gutsy" rich, excellent, "film-like" quality for many scenes, but you can't do any post-production recovery of lost low-light details. The camera does a pretty good job of rolling scene highlights off to a hard clip at 100 units of video.
Possibly, some of the video problems I've detailed here are related to the specific 5D Mk2 that I purchased (serial#0320105XXX) but I don't think this is the case. Hopefully, Canon will issue a firmware update to address the camera's video problems. New firmware could possibly add manual control to the video capture functions and slightly lower the frame rate to the standard 29.97fps.
All cameras at any price level have positives and negatives. I've never found or used the "perfect" camera. The Canon 5d Mk2 is an excellent still camera and in my opinion, "a not quite ready for prime time" HDTV video camera. Possibly the camera was rushed to market to compete (or cancel out) the much hyped video features of Nikon's "rolling shutter" D90. It is an excellent glimpse into the future of "hybrid" still & video DSLR cameras.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Major Image Sensor Quality Problems
Right up front you should be aware that if you shoot a lot of photos in low light conditions like in dark wedding ceremony or reception venues, you're going to have "hot pixels...Read complete review
Right up front you should be aware that if you shoot a lot of photos in low light conditions like in dark wedding ceremony or reception venues, you're going to have "hot pixels" and some to many random blank pixels show up in the blacks as white squares. I shot such a wedding this past Sunday 3/8/09 at ISO 1600 and am now taking a break from "fixing" over 1200 images. My 5D Mk2 body is currently at the Jamesburg reair facility along with the "masses" (Canon technician's term)of its brothers being repaired. Based on research I've done on the web this really is a common problem, and I believe that as summer approaches in North America it will get worse for us. This is because many of the photographers that reported these problems already are in warm climates, Australia for example. Secondly, the problem in my camera became progressively worse as the night went on, and the camera warmed up, but then dimimished the next day after the cool down period. By the way, I shot with Live View off, and 2 second (short) review set.
On the plus, ISO 1600 in the Mk2 is as noise free as ISO 800 in my two 5D bodies, so Canon delivered on this promise. This is the reason I wanted the camera in the first place. All of the other virtues of the 5D are there, and the images are smoother, and it seems to handle highlights much better even with highlight tone turned off. But with this pixel problem that's kind of like saying, well, yes Mrs. Lincoln, but it was a good play.
Reviewed by 1482 customers
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Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
- Quiet
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only):
The layout of buttons and controls is perfect. There is nothing better for portrait and wedding photography as far as I am concerned. ISO performance is amazing!
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
Comments about Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only):
I have loved my Mark II from the moment I got it and I would buy it all over again! The ISO capabilities are outstanding which was my highest priority as i take 99% of my photos indoors with only natural available light. If I could change one thing about the camera it would be the focus system. I wish it resembled the 7Ds focus points!! Hopefully the Mark III will make this leap.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only):
As a very active enthusiast, migrating from a 7D, can say that this little baby has a amazing low noise at high ISO values. Robust to jobs on the field. Easy menu operation and awesome full HD video. Thats what we expect from a professional camera. Professional results.
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Doug T
Garlic 5D Mark II - 50mm 2.5 Macro
Images shared by Doug T
MeanToBeTogether 5D Mark II - 50mm 2.5 Macro
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Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- High ISO Performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only):
I waited far too long to switch from the Rebel series to the pro-level cameras. I've had major issues with the autofocus with my Rebel cameras (T2i/550D).
I now shoot with the Canon 7D and the 5D and I just love them both. The autofocus is fantastic with my Canon 70 - 200mm F/4 IS and my Canon 300mm F/4 IS. The Canon 7D's autofocus is faster than the 5D but both are accurate. I spend a great deal of time photographing wildlife and both cameras can accurately focus even when there are trees and brush in the way.
The 5D has little noise all the way up to an ISO of 3200. Although, I generally try not to go beyond an ISO of 2000. Deer become so much more active as the light dims so this is a huge plus for me!
I would really like to see Popular Photography and other photo publications do a better job addressing the autofocus issues that so many photographers experience with Pro-level as well as amateur cameras.
If I had known how good the 7D and 5D were I would have gone in debt just to purchase them. I'm really sorry that it took me soon long to switch.
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
- Very sharp image quality
Cons
- Limited focusing points
- No built in flash
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only):
I also have 7D, but image quality is far more sharp.Very low noise even at high iso(even at 6400). I will never go back to crop sensor.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Quality
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Video
Comments about Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only):
This is, for me, a recent upgrade from a 7D. The video is impressive every time I use it. The full frame is useful, but much more so from a photo standpoint. Though I like the video interface of the 7D a bit better, I'm sure it will just take some getting used to. I should note that I am using this camera primarily for video and photo-timelapse and so far, I am stoked. Wide angle lens + full frame = insanity!
- Ease of Operation:
- 6
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only):
I'm just now beginning to adjust to the camera and lens. Will be taking a class in March to improve my understanding. Looking forward to many years of enjoyment
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Good Image Quality
- High ISO Performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only):
I bought this camera as an upgrade from my 40D and have found it to be very good. I love the higher ISO capabilities with less noise, which was frequently a problem with my other camera in low-light situations. I will say that the shutter is slightly louder than the 40D, which is unfortunate, but something I'm willing to live with for the great capability within the camera itself. I like that you can adjust specific lenses to help with accurate focus as well.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
- Quiet
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only):
I am a freelance photographer and just recently upgraded from my 7D to this bad boy. I will say there are certain aspects in which the 5D lacks, such as the focusing system and coninuous shutter speed that the 7D certainly triumphs. The 5D though does make it a point to rise above though in almost every other aspect. The full frame sensor is something to desire and helped bring out the full potential of my 35mm L. The ISO handling is also quite impressive showing little noise even up to 1000 or even 1250 especially compared to similar pictures and light set ups with my 7D. The video controls are a bit more customizable as far as volume control as well which the 7D lacked and the quality of colors and even the bokeh brings a whole new quality to my photos. If you do alot of portraiture or low light images this camera is definitely a must have. If your a sports or live music photographer Id say invest in a 7D.
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only):
I use this camera for photos of my children, weddings, family photo sessions, portraits, etc. It is easy to use and I couldn't be happier with it!
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only):
This is the least expensive full frame CMOS body with near professional features. So far, and I have only been using it for about a month, I have nothing to complain about. Images are crystal clear even in low light with long exposures. Color is great. There are some reviews on the web describing chromatic aberration with wide angle lenses and possible tiny color inaccuracies in bright daylight. However, I did not yet encounter these problems.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
- Quiet
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only):
It's great in every way. A big step up from my 20D.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by gwb_in_Brooklyn
On of the first photos taken with the 5D
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- You may also flag this review
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
- Quiet
- Tilt /Swivel LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only):
I shoot professionally close to every day so I need a camera that reliable and has great coverage. This is my second time buying the same body and I am still pleased as ever. B&H really took care of me too! I got it quicker than I had imagined. I remember the time I got my first camera body, it was a hassle to order. That's beause it wasn't through B&H!
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Noisy At High ISO
- Short Battery Life
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only):
Love it for the video quality and the great photo performances.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only):
Pictures are extremely clean up to ISO1600 and still usable at higher speeds. AF is a non issue when using center focus point only. Image Quality of this caliber is a no brainer at this price point.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- High ISO Performance
- Quiet
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only):
I'm a photography enthusiast, and the 5d mark ii was an upgrade from my entry-level dslr. I love its ability to handle a higher iso with less noise than my earlier dslr, and the live view with the back button manual focus is great for certain shots, too. My favorite feature, though, is the full frame!
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
- Quiet
- Tilt /Swivel LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only):
I´m a very active enthusiast. So I´ve migred from a 7D Canon to 5DmkII because of the full frame improvement and I realized that is much more than that, the 5D is a very professional equipament and my images are now way ahead that before. The low grain with high ISO values is my favorite note of this beautiful camera.
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Doug T
HomeXpressCoffee
Images shared by Doug T
Little_UnhaDeGato_Ivy
Was this review helpful? Yes / No
- You may also flag this review
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only):
I am still getting to know the camera... but so far! I LOVE it!
I am a young professional photographer, who shoots everything from corporate jobs to weddings.
This camera really allows you to capture what you are seeing, or what you want to see. It works beautifully in low light. (ISO of 1600 and up don't fall apart like in other cameras) The quality and size of the images it produces is much higher, mostly because it is a full frame camera. Bigger sensor!
If you like to shoot using natural light, i recommend this for you. It is easy to use if you know your stuff, not for just anyone, this camera is made for professionals.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- High ISO Performance
- Quiet
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only):
I just received my 5D Mark II and right out of the box I was happy with what I saw. The improvements in body design and layout of the menu were fantastic. Upgrading from the first generation 5D was well worth the money.
I haven't run the camera through all the paces yet but from what I have already seen - color spectrum/new ISO options/ etc. - I have no doubt it will be able to handle all that I can throw at it. I'm also really excited to test out the video options but for now I'm just sticking to stills and seeing just how far I can take the new model.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Quality
- High ISO Performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (Body Only):
A little over a year ago I decided I wanted a nice camera to use for shooting paintings (I'm a painter). I bought the 7d. I began to enjoy just using the camera and making photos on their own terms but the noise on the 7d is terrible beyond iso 800 and not great below it. I returned the 7d and bought this camera. Holy Cow...the images were amazing..I could pull 100% crops and use them as finals...I could toggle to 400% in PS and still clearly see an image....I could shoot low light at f4 iso 2000 in CR and they'd come out looking tack sharp in post..On a whim I started to look for a little side work doing photography. Now, just over a year later I own 2 of these and a small pile of L lenses and I'm busy...be careful...this camera can change your life! semi-kidding aside it is a remarkable piece of equipment and yields remarkable images. I've considered bumping up to the 1ds mk iii but in the end I simply can't imagine the image quality could be any better. (I do miss great AF on the 7d...come on 5D mkIII???).
Anyway...I Highly recommend this camera..The only downside, and it is a downside if speed is important to you...is the AF..Beyond that - WOW!!
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
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- User Manual (PDF 6.1mb)
- CD-ROM Guide (PDF 1.3mb)
- EOS Utility 2.5 for Windows Instruction Manual (PDF 7.5mb)
- Picture Style Editor 1.4 for Macintosh Instruction Manual (PDF 1.7mb)
- Pocket Guide (EOS 5D Mark II) (PDF 1.4mb)
- Digital Photo Professional 3.5 Instruction Manual (PDF 13mb)
- EOS Utility 2.5 for Macintosh Instruction Manual (PDF 6.9mb)
- ImageBrowser 6.1 Instruction Manual (PDF 9.1mb)
- ZoomBrowser 6.2 for Instruction Manual (PDF 10.4mb)
- Picture Style Editor 1.4 for Windows Instruction Manual (PDF 1.7mb)
Lenses
Required item: A lens is not included. Get the type of lens for the shot you need.
- Price: $1,369.00
- Instant Savings: -$100.00 Offer ends MAR 3 '12
- You Pay: $1,269.00
- GBP 802.13
Memory Cards
Required item: Memory is not included so be sure to have enough storage capacity.
- Price: $39.95
- GBP 25.25
Accessory Kits
Cover all your needs with just one click.
- Price: $159.50
- GBP 100.82
Batteries & Power
Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.
- Price: $58.99
- GBP 37.29
- Price: $34.95
- GBP 22.09
Flash & Accessories
Get a flash to add light to your picture.
- Price: $474.00
- Instant Savings: -$30.00 Offer ends MAR 3 '12
- You Pay: $444.00
- GBP 280.65
- Price: $14.99
- GBP 9.48
Bags & Cases
Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or case.
- Price: $39.95
- GBP 25.25
Slings & Straps
Carry or wear your camera in comfort & style.
- Price: $58.95
- GBP 37.26
Battery Grips
Get a better grip for vertical shots and add battery life.
- Price: $235.95
- GBP 149.14
- Price: $69.95
- GBP 44.22
What's in the Box
- LP-E6 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack (7.2V, 1800mAh)
- LC-E6 Battery Charger
- STV-250N Mini A/V Angled Male to 3 RCA Male A/V Cable
- Eyecup Eb
- R-F-3 Camera Cover
- Wide Neck Strap EW-EOS5DMKII
- IFC-200U USB Cable
- EOS Digital Solutions CD-ROM
- User's Guide
- 1-Year Canon U.S.A. Limited Warranty
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