Canon Redefines Mid-Range DSLRs With New EOS 7D

Canon just announced the new EOS 7D DSLR with a fast burst rate of eight fps continuous shooting, 18-megapixel resolution, and Full HD video recording with variable frame rates and manual exposure controls. Other enhancements to the EOS 7D include a completely new 19-point Autofocus system, a new Canon iFCL Metering System (Intelligent Focus, Color, Luminance), and a new Intelligent Viewfinder.

Canon’s CMOS sensor and the Dual DIGIC 4 Imaging Processors in the EOS 7D make it possible for the camera to capture eight frames per second up to 126 Large JPEGS when using a UDMA CF card. In terms of video recording capabilities, the EOS 7D features Full HD video capture at 1920 x 1080 resolution with selectable frame rates of 24p, 25p, or 30p.
The EOS 7D’s redesigned Autofocus system features a new multi-axis cross-type 19-point AF grid with points that are evenly spread out across the image plane and displayed through Canon’s new Intelligent Viewfinder.All of the 19 points are f/5.6-sensitive for both horizontal and vertical cross-type focusing. The center AF point is especially sensitive, adding high-precision diagonal cross-type sensitivity for f/2.8 and larger aperture lenses. The new AF system also enables new AF area selection modes including Spot AF, AF Point Expansion, and Zone AF.

Another first for an EOS system camera, Canon has redesigned the exposure metering system for the EOS 7D to complement the new AF system. Canon’s iFCL metering includes a 63-zone dual-layer metering sensor that considers both illumination and color to deliver consistent results in all lighting conditions and keep exposure levels stable from shot to shot, even if the light source changes.

The pop-up flash on the EOS 7D features a built-in Integrated Speedlite Transmitter for control of multiple off-camera EOS Speedlites. The camera also supports an ISO range from 100-6400 (expandable to 12,800).
Finally, Canon improved the ergonomic feel of the EOS 7D with a new super-fluid body design and a revised grip that fits better in a user’s hand. The camera also has a new Quick Control Button for easy access to camera settings and a RAW/JPEG toggle button.

The Canon EOS 7D will be available at the end of September in a body-only configuration for $1,699. A kit version with Canon’s EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM zoom lens will be available for $1,899.

A new WFT-E5A wireless file transmitter is also available for the EOS 7D. This transmitter offers photographers a range of connectivity options including IEEE802.11a/b/g and Ethernet. This transmitter will be available in early November for $699.99.

In addition to the 7D announcement, Canon is making its first lens with Hybrid Image Stabilization available. The new EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM lens can compensate for both angle camera shake and shift camera shake up to four shutter speed steps. The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM is scheduled to be available at the end of September for approximately $1,050.