Today, Canon has announced the EOS 7D to add to its lineup of DSLRs. The Canon 7D is an 18-megapixel DSLR that adds several upgrades from prior generation prosumer DSLRs.
While the 18-megapixel APS-C (1.6x crop) CMOS sensor is an upgrade of 3-megapixels over the 50D, the Canon 7D is more akin to the pro-level 5D Mark II in terms of its features and build. A new autofocus system consisting of 19 cross-type points will likely be welcomed by most shooters. Additionally, Canon has addressed the cries of many aspiring filmmakers by including several frame rate options, including 1080p recording at 24fps.
The Canon 7D is likely to become known as the pro-level crop-sensor camera in Canon’s lineup.
The 7D should be available in September 2009 at an initial retail price of $1699 for body only and in a kit with Canon’s EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM at an initial retail price of $1899.
If you want one before Christmas, you should probably get in line by pre-ordering the 7D now so as to avoid the long wait-list that plagued the 5D Mark II’s arrival.
Canon 7D Availability
Check availability for the Canon 7D at the following trusted retailers:
Canon 7D Key Features
- 18-megapixel CMOS sensor
- Dual DIGIC 4 image processors
- 8 frames per second (max 126 JPEG / 15 RAW images)
- ISO 100-12800 (in ISO expansion mode)
- 19 point cross-type AF sensors
- Center AF point is 8-directional double cross-type
- 100% viewfinder coverage
- 1.0x viewfinder magnification
- TTL full aperture metering with 63 zone Dual Layer SPC
- 3? 920k dot resolution LCD display
- 1080p HD video (30fps, 25fps, 24fps)
- 720p HD vidoe (60fps, 50fps)
- Live view mode
- External mic stereo mini jack input
- HDMI output
- Pop-up Flash
- E-TTL II auto flash with EX-series Speedlites
- 150k actuation rated shutter
Canon 7D Press Release
CANON U.S.A. REDEFINES MID-RANGE DSLR CATEGORY WITH THE NEW EOS 7D DIGITAL SLR CAMERA
The EOS 7D Features Fast Eight fps Continuous Shooting, Class-Leading 18-Megapixel Resolution and Full HD Video Recording with Variable Frame Rates and Manual Exposure Control
Lake Success, N.Y., September 1, 2009 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today introduced a revolutionary camera that redefines the highly competitive mid-range DSLR product category: the Canon EOS 7D Digital SLR camera. Professional photographers and advanced amateurs have been demanding higher performance and more diverse functions in their cameras, and Canon has answered – with the new EOS 7D. Far more than a slight improvement from a previous model, the EOS 7D DSLR is a brand new product that stands on its own with new features never before seen in any Canon camera. Whether it’s shooting at eight frames per second (fps), focusing with the new Zone AF mode or recording 24p Full HD video, the EOS 7D DSLR camera satisfies the most rigorous professional requirements with durability, flexibility, high-resolution images and customizable controls. With its unprecedented out-of-the-box performance and high-end feature set, the EOS 7D is poised as the ultimate step-up camera for serious photographers or a second camera for professionals in the field.
The EOS 7D boasts significant EOS advancements including a completely new 19-point Autofocus system, a new Canon iFCL Metering System (Intelligent Focus, Color, Luminance) and a new Intelligent Viewfinder. An 18-megapixel Canon CMOS sensor and Dual DIGIC 4 Imaging Processors fuel the EOS 7D’s 14-bit A/D data conversion and its ability to freeze fast motion in high-resolution with eight fps continuous shooting up to 126 Large JPEGS using a UDMA CF card, positioning this camera for the studio as well as the sideline. The EOS 7D captures beautiful low-light images with or without a flash, at occasions such as a dance recital or wedding reception, thanks to a wide range of ISO speed settings from 100-6400 (expandable to 12,800). In addition to its new still capture capabilities, the EOS 7D features Full HD video capture at 1920 x 1080 resolution with selectable frame rates of 24p, 25p or 30p. Native 24p recording helps videographers achieve a more cinema-style look for their footage without the need for post-processing.
“The EOS 7D represents a completely new chapter in digital photography and Canon product development. This camera stands alone as the most functional and innovative DSLR Canon has released to-date, bringing together all of the best professional features offered, along with numerous user requests at a price-point everyone can appreciate,” stated Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.
The Evolution of Vision, the EOS 7D’s New Autofocus System
The Canon EOS 7D boasts the most advanced AF system ever seen in an EOS SLR. The completely re-designed system includes a new multi-axis cross-type 19-point AF grid, where the focusing points are evenly spread out across the image plane and clearly displayed through Canon’s new Intelligent Viewfinder. All 19 points are f/5.6-sensitive for both horizontal and vertical cross-type focusing, while the center AF point adds high-precision diagonal cross-type sensitivity for f/2.8 and larger aperture lenses. The Canon EOS 7D Digital SLR camera is the first EOS SLR to feature 19 cross-type focusing points that remain fully functional with maximum apertures as small as f/5.6, which brings the performance of the AF system to unprecedented levels for assignments as varied as fast-moving sports action or low-light wedding ceremonies.
The Canon EOS 7D’s AF system allows numerous AF area selection modes never seen before in an EOS SLR camera. New modes include:
- Spot AF mode reduces the size of a single AF point to focus on small subjects like an animal in a cage.
- AF Point Expansion mode uses a cluster of AF points adjacent to the selected AF point to automatically assist focusing on moving subjects, such as an athlete on the run.
- Zone AF divides the 19 AF points into five selectable focusing zones and makes it easier to achieve focus with subjects that are difficult to track with Single Point AF or AF point expansion, such as birds in flight.
Additional AF improvements include a revised Automatic AF point selection sequence that allows a user to pick any one of the 19 AF points as a starting point for tracking moving subjects in AI Servo mode. (Previous EOS models required the subject to first be acquired by the center focusing point.) If the subject moves away, the camera will continue to track the movement with the remaining points and display the active focusing point in the viewfinder. Also, a time-saving feature is AF Point Switching, which allows photographers to select and register one AF point for horizontal compositions and a second AF point for vertical shooting, ideal for studio and portrait photographers.
To complement the new AF system, the exposure metering system for the EOS 7D has been completely re-designed to take color information into account, another first for an EOS system. Canon’s iFCL metering includes a 63-zone dual-layer metering sensor that reads both illumination and color for consistent results in all lighting conditions, keeping exposure levels stable from shot to shot, even as the light source changes.
Canon’s new Intelligent Viewfinder uses a liquid crystal overlay to provide clear and precise displays of focusing points and zones, on-demand grid lines and a spot metering circle. The LCD overlay can also be illuminated in extreme low-light situations or turned off completely. The EOS 7D camera’s viewfinder includes a large all-glass pentaprism with an antireflective coating to maximize clarity and provide a brighter display. The EOS 7D’s Intelligent Viewfinder features 1.0x magnification with 100 percent coverage for accurate composition and checking of detail.
EOS HD Movie: Empowering the World of Videography
Canon has blazed new trails in HD video capture with the 5D Mark II. Now, the EOS 7D takes DSLR video to new heights with Full HD capture featuring fully manual exposure control, and selectable cinematic frame rates for both NTSC (National Television System Committee) and PAL (Phase Altering Line) standards. Compatible with more than 60 Canon EF and EF-S lenses, the EOS 7D lets videographers take full advantage of the camera’s large CMOS sensor to achieve the dramatic frame composition they desire. At the heart of the EOS 7D are two key proprietary Canon technologies, Dual DIGIC 4 Imaging Processors and a large APS-C-sized CMOS sensor, helping to render stunning color reproduction, amazing depth of field and fine detail, even in low-light conditions. The Canon EOS 7D allows for three video recording modes – Full HD and HD in a 16:9 aspect ratio and Standard Definition (SD) in a 4:3 aspect ratio, all at selectable frame rates. The EOS 7D Digital SLR camera will record Full HD at 1920 x 1080 pixels in selectable frame rates of 24p (23.976), 25p, or 30p (29.97); 720p HD recording at 50p or 60p (59.94) and SD video at frame rates of 50p or 60p (59.94). The EOS 7D features a new dedicated button to initiate live view for both video and still shooting. Once engaged, the same dedicated button will start and stop video recording. Like the EOS 5D Mark II, the Canon EOS 7D Digital SLR camera provides users with the capability to use an external stereo microphone for professional audio effects or a built-in monaural microphone for convenience.
The Features You Asked For
A helpful new tool for architectural and landscape photography where angles and perspective are critical is Canon’s new built-in Dual Axis Electronic Level, featuring an artificial horizon over the image on the rear LCD screen in Live View or in the viewfinder using illuminated AF points for easy leveling while shooting. The dual axis electronic level shows both horizontal roll and vertical pitch, making it easy to identify when the camera is in a fixed level shooting position and ready to take the shot.
The EOS 7D’s pop-up flash features a built-in Integrated Speedlite Transmitter for control of multiple off-camera EOS Speedlites without the need for an external transmitter. This built-in wireless option is a compact and economical solution for studio and wedding photography with multiple flash set-ups.
A new Intelligent Macro Tracking function helps reduce blur during macro shooting by recognizing when a macro lens is attached and automatically adjusting the AI Servo sampling frequency. This AI Servo adjustment accounts for camera movement forward and back, a typical occurrence when moving in close for a macro shot as photographers rock back and forth, or a flower blows in the wind.
Once in your hands, you can immediately feel the ergonomic improvements of the Canon EOS 7D camera, starting with a new super-fluid body design with continuous curves outlining the top of the camera and a revised grip that fits better in a user’s hand. The camera has a new Quick Control Button, which opens an easy-to-navigate menu on the camera’s LCD screen. From this menu, users can adjust all camera settings including AF modes as well as set custom button functions, an insightful new feature that can easily customize each button’s function to the photographer’s preference. Another new feature is the RAW/JPEG toggle button providing quick dual-format shooting, allowing photographers to quickly add large JPEG or RAW file formats to their already selected shooting mode at the touch of a button.
The Canon EOS 7D camera also features a new large, clear 3.0-inch solid structure Clear View II LCD screen with 920,000 dot/VGA resolution for enhanced clarity and color when viewing images. The camera’s nine internal seals enhance weather resistance, and its 150,000-cycle shutter durability positions the EOS 7D as a “workhorse” for professionals in any photography discipline.
New Wireless Connectivity
Canon is announcing the availability of the new WFT-E5A wireless file transmitter (WFT) exclusively for the EOS 7D Digital SLR camera. The WFT-E5A wireless transmitter offers professional photographers a wide range of digital connectivity options including IEEE802.11a/b/g and Ethernet, ideal for commercial and studio work. The WFT-E5A wireless file transmitter opens the door to new possibilities in remote and Geotagged shooting applications. Photographers can fire up to 10 cameras simultaneously from across the room or across the country while maintaining control over camera settings and remote live view on a laptop or smart phone.i The WFT-E5A wireless transmitter can also transfer and display images on DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) compatible televisions and photo frames. Geotagging is now possible via Bluetooth, using compatible GPS devices to append coordinate data to the images.
Pricing and Availability
The Canon EOS 7D Digital SLR camera is scheduled to be delivered to U.S. dealers at the end of September, and will be sold in a body-only configuration at an estimated retail price of $1,699.00ii. It will also be offered in a kit version with Canon’s EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM zoom lens at an estimated retail price of $1,899.00iii. The Canon WFT-E5A wireless file transmitter is scheduled to be available in early November and sell at an estimated retail price of $699.99iv.
Canon Digital Learning Center
Online visitors and Web surfers are encouraged to browse the Canon Digital Learning Center and take advantage of the various educational resources that Canon has to offer for novices and advanced photographers alike. The Canon Digital Learning Center provides a schedule for a wide variety of Live Learning classes across the country with renowned photographers as well as online resources and tips. The site also features online tutorials for beginners and professionals to learn their way around a digital SLR camera and inkjet printer and unlock the full creative control of digital photography. To learn more about each program and register, please visit: www.usa.canon.com/canonlivelearning
About Canon U.S.A., Inc.
Canon U.S.A., Inc. is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. Its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), a top patent holder of technology, ranked third overall in the U.S. in 2008†, with global revenues of US $45 billion, is listed as number four in the computer industry on Fortune Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies 2009 list, and is on the 2008 BusinessWeek list of “Top 100 Brands.” At Canon, we care because caring is essential to living together in harmony. Founded upon a corporate philosophy of Kyosei – “all people, regardless of race, religion or culture, harmoniously living and working together into the future” – Canon U.S.A. supports a number of social, youth, educational and other programs, including environmental and recycling initiatives. Additional information about these programs can be found at www.usa.canon.com/kyosei. To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company’s RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/rss.
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Specifications and availability are subject to change without notice.
All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.
* Pricing subject to change at any time. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.
† Based on weekly patent counts issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office
All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.
Specifications and availability are subject to change without notice.
i The WFT-E5A WFT unit supports various LAN functions, including wireless LAN “11a” in environments where IEEE802.11b/g cannot be used, high-speed communication Ethernet (100BASE-TX), and Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS). The WFT-E5A will also support the WFT server, which enables remote shooting while viewing the Live View image on a computer or handheld terminal, such as a smart phone.
ii Pricing subject to change at any time. Actual prices are determined by individual dealers and may vary.
iii Pricing subject to change at any time. Actual prices are determined by individual dealers and may vary.
iv Pricing subject to change at any time. Actual prices are determined by individual dealers and may vary.
NikoDoby says
Congratulations canon.
Poagao says
From the DP Review it looks like, even though it’s slightly smaller than the 5D2, it is even heavier. Wow.
Melomind says
Wow, wow and once more – WOW! Initially I was thinking on getting the 5DMKII, however its -very basic- 9-point autofocus and slow shutter speed kept me away of this camera.
Now 7D has arrived… it features new autofocus system (I believe much more advanced compared to the 5DMKII if judging by Canon’s press-release), built-in transmitter for external flashes!!! I hated to know I had to buy a separate transmitter or an extra flash to utilize ext. flash functions compared to Nikon where even basic models had this capability. Thanks Canon for finally addressing this issue!
And… 8 fps shutter… + loads of functional and ergonomic improvements! It makes me think I’ll get this camera and wait for 5DMKIII =)))
Well… still wish to shift for a full-frame, however.. 7D’s lacking this.
It’d be VERY interesting to compare the noise levels between 50D, 7D and (especially) 5DMKII !
Congratulations all Canon shooters!
Melomind says
Oh, it also features 100% viewfinder coverage compared to 98% on 5DMKII and 95% in 40D/50D. A great improvement!
ArtieL says
Will there be a Nikon equivalent of this coming out anytime soon???
WHY haven’t they released an SLR with a true 1080p HD video recording?
Wolfgang says
I’ve had a Nikon D80 for some time now and I was ready to run out and get the new D300s,maybe I’ll pack it in and go Canon if the D700s is 12mp as well.
Doda says
@ArtieL: Nikon will release a D400, for sure. My bets are down for an announcement together with a D4. Press release might be around February/March, and shipping sometime between April and Mai, as the Football-(or for the American readers, Soccer-)Worldcup starts June 11th.
I guess the D400 will feature Sonys 14mp sensor. I also expect a fully revised Video, featuring full HD and an improved readout mechanism to reduce the rolling shutter effect.
But these are of course my personal speculations only.
SToronto says
Sounds like a fantastic camera. Although for me, I was thinking of upgrading my 40D to the 5D Mk II early next year. This camera rivals the 5D in some aspects and it is cheaper. However not full frame which I want. Some users here suggested the refresh on the 5D is 3 years, so just over 2 years to go. That I don’t like. This has made an easy decision that much more difficult.
Andre says
Which storage card does it use ??
Basil says
I`m delighted with the news, but does the new Canon eos 7D come out with
body seals around the camera lens opening akin to the EOS 1 MK3 OR EOS 5D for that matter?
The other thing I would like to see on this format improved is the ability
to see what mode one is shooting in,I`have to memorise the “brail” feel the clicks D=FIRST,M,A,T,P etc. particularly if one is shooting in the dark, the left dial is dark and no feedback through the viewfinder?
Oh,yes one other thing, then I`m truly sold and Canon deserves the BEST AWARD,and that is flash exposure feedback reading in the viewfinder, so that one does not have to lift ones eyes or head above the veiwfinder to get the greenlight feedback from the flash unit. The old minolta 70001 did this well and one last thing I would like to see the camera focus in pitch darkness without the aid of the flash secured, since I shoot without flash on my
70-200 2.8 L is usm at a wedding, indcidently the 7000i could do this,Sony now has this know how if they expand on it? and focussing at my age after 22 years is quite a challenge;Id like the camera to aid me here while I consider the artwork.
Let`s see who really notices the above, and makes the right changes.
Regards
Basil Parsons