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Let’s Discuss the Canon EOS 7D

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Posted by Patrick on Aug 20, 2009 in Cameras, Rumors

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Another potential shot (click here for a larger view) at a new SLR from Canon. Working with the assumption that this shot was legit, I’d suspect that this is the top section of the rumored 7D. Interestingly there are some similarities with the 5D Mark II, as well as some noticeable differences. First a vast majority of the buttons and layout are quite similar. The mode dial for instance is exact (perhaps more of a dimple in the center). But the differences are distinct, an on/off switch now placed at the base of the mode dial (like it already). Second, notice there will be a pop up flash for this camera model, and a “M-Fn” button has been added next to the top control dial. Now perhaps the on/off switch has been moved for ergonomical reasons, but maybe they’ve moved because…an articulated LCD display takes up too much space?

While I guess the safe thing to assume is that a 7D succeeds the 50D in specifications, what if the 7D is more of a D700 competitor? Indeed, some of the specs floating around hint at a 12 megapixel sensor, a 12 megapixel full frame sensor to be exact. We have a pop up flash clearly visible here, throw in a faster frame rate than the 5D2, which DIGIC IV or even V could do with a mere 12 megapixels, and ISO range up to 25,600, and you have something quite like a D700. Of course it seems a given that a 7D will also offer 1080p HD video, presumably with manual controls. One more thing to factor in is this tidbit from Canon Rumors:

“Hey, checked things out at work and the Best Buy inventory system has the 7D in it. The body is listed at $2699.99 with a UPC of 013803117493 and the canon model number of 3814B004. The kit with a EF 28-135, which seems strange to me is selling for $2899.99 and has a model of 3814B010 UPC of 013803117530.

-via Canon Rumors

Now via that same source, Best Buy had added a G11 and a S90 to their inventory as well, before the cameras had been announced. Given the pictures, and the pricing, wouldn’t it be logical to assume we’re looking at a 12 megapixel full frame camera with HD video? How on earth could it be an APS-C offering at $2700?

Just one more thing, for those thinking this might be the top side of Canon EOS 1D Mark IV, I’m thinking the “CA” or “creative auto” on the mode dial would rule out this possibility. For the non-Canon folk out there, “creative auto” simplifies the process of selecting shutter speed or aperture. I hardly think that’d be needed on a pro-grade camera.

picture via the DPR forums (where else?)