Digital Trends

Canon EOS 5D

January 10th, 2006 | by David Elrich

This is a terrific D-SLR as one would expect for the price. There’s no getting away from the fact it’s the smallest and lightest full-frame D-SLR available and it delivers superb picture quality. Digital noise is practically a thing of the past. But you’ll pay for the privilege (figure $5K if you’re starting from scratch for a quality EF lens or three and a Speedlight flash). This is a serious commitment and I would have no reservation recommending it if the 5D cost closer to $2,000 for the body instead of three grand. Given its high price I suggest prospective D-SLR purchasers with more limited resources look at the many kits available for less than $1,500. The 8.2MP Canon EOS 20D would be a good start since it’s operationally very similar and costs $1,400 for the body only in the real world. You won’t get all of the pluses of this camera but you’ll be able to pay for gas and heating bills. And for those taking a Carrera for a spin, the EOS 5D would look just great resting on the passenger seat. Bottom line? For serious, demanding and wealthy photographers only.

• Excellent picture quality
• Full-frame CMOS imager
• Very fast response
• Very little noise

• No built-in flash or AF Assist lamp
• No traditional Scene modes