Canon 5D Mark II Test Drive

I know, I'm obsessed. But here's a test drive of the Canon 5D Mark II by Dan Chung for The Guardian.

Even better, he comments on his experiences at the DVInfo site. Some interesting comments about the limitations he encountered, particularly a problem using the HDMI output to drive an external monitor while shooting. (Note that another poster asked about using the standard video out instead, which he hasn't - yet - responded to.)

1. In Movie mode the HDMI outputs 1080i when you are framing up and sorting focus and exposure. […] the moment you hit record it changes the output to 480p, worse the resolution change forces both HDMI displays I've tested to take about a second to adjust in which time you see nothing!

2. The image quality is stunning in low light, even at its maximum 3200asa it is still usable.
[…]

8. The rear screen is actually very good and can be zoomed up twice to check focus on specific spot. However when you start to record you can no longer zoom to check focus, your subject had pretty well be standing still, follow focus is going to be impossible. This coupled with the HDMI problem is going to rule this camera out for most run and gun use I think. Odd as one of the primary markets for the 5DmkII is supposed to be news photographers doing video.


In a later post he notes a problem forcing the camera to go to maximum aperture when using automatic lenses.

He seems to think that the camera will be useful for those wanting to use it as a special effects second camera, but that it won't really replace a dedicated video camera in most situations, and it may be difficult for those in news/wedding situations etc., to use effectively.

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