Sometimes, carrying a huge full-sized DSLR around all day when you're traveling can be exhausting, and often times prohibitive to good photography. "Wait, did he just say a DSLR can be a bad thing for your images?" Yes, I did, because often times when you're tired and just walking around after a long day, the last thing you want to be toting around is your heavy camera, and the best camera is the one you have with you. That is what's perfect with the mirrorless compact revolution that's been happening lately. They provide excellent image quality from massive sensors, but lack the bulk of a traditional DSLR. Prior to today, Canon was one of the only major camera companies to not offer a mirrorless camera. With the launch of their new EOS M, we think it's been worth the wait.
With an 18.0-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, a DIGIC 5 Image Processor, and an ISO expandable from 100 - 25600, the EOS M isn't to be taken lightly, especially when you add in the fact that with an adapter, the M will work with all of your EF and EF-S lenses and Speedlite accessories. This makes it the perfect backup or travel camera for someone who already started drinking the Canon kool-aid. If you're a little light on Canon gear, there's also two new lenses available, the EF-M 22mm f/2 STM kit lens and the optional EF-M 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens, and a compact Speedlite unit, the 90EX
These days, high-definition video is a major part a higher-end camera, that being said the EOS M is sure to not disappoint. With the inclusion of an APS-C sensor it has the potential to rival the video quality of Canon's DSLR's, as well as being able to pull from the same bank of 70+ lenses. Adding to the glory is the built-in stereo microphone (with 64 levels of manual adjustability) and continuous autofocus with the ability to track moving subjects. The video functions of the camera also take advantage of the touchscreen LCD giving you the ability to adjust focus and track subjects easily with just your fingertip.
This camera presents a serious alternative to those who think an expensive DSLR is needed to create HD video, as well as quality images.
The EOS M Digital Camera bundled with the new EF-M 22mm f/2 STM kit lens will be available in October for an estimated retail price of $799.99.
The new EF-M 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens, Mount Adapter EF-EOS M and Speedlite 90EX will all be available in October at an estimated retail price of $299.99, $199.99 and $149.99 respectively.
Product Specifications and Features:
- EOS Full HD Movie mode with Movie Servo AF for continuous focus tracking of moving subjects also includes:
- Manual exposure control
- Multiple resolution frame rates
- Built-in stereo microphone
- Manual audio level adjustment
- Video Snapshot mode with touch-screen editing
- 18.0-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
- ISO 100-6400 (expandable to 12800 in H mode) for video recording, ISO 100-12800 (expandable to 25600 in H mode) for still image shooting from bright to dim light and high performance Powerful DIGIC 5 Image Processor for exceptional image quality video and photos
- Hybrid CMOS AF delivers fast autofocus speed for video and photos
- Touch Screen 3.0-inch Clear View LCD monitor II (approximately 1,040,000 dots) with smudge-resistant coating features multi-touch operation allowing photographers to use familiar gestures such as "pinch-to-zoom" and "swiping" to scroll between pictures and Touch AF for an easy and intuitive video capture experience
- Scene Intelligent Auto mode delivers expertly optimized photos and scene detection for amazing results even when shooting at night
- Advanced imaging features like Handheld Night Scene mode, HDR Backlight Control mode, and seven Creative Filters provide added versatility
- Multi-shot Noise Reduction helps preserve precious detail in photos at high ISO speeds
- Compatible with SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, including new Ultra High Speed (UHS-I) cards
- Compatible with all Canon Speedlite accessories including the new Speedlite 600EX and Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT
- Compatible with Canon's GPS Receiver GP-E2
The camera comes bundled with a 22mm f/2.0 lens, offering a great blend of control, and compact size.
The smudge-resistant 3.0 inch touch screen uses familiar motions such as "pinch to zoom" and "swiping" to control how you see your images.
The hot-shoe on the EOS M is compatable with all Speedlite accessories, including the newest 600 EX, which you can learn more about here. [link]
The Speedlite 90EX is Canon's compact flash unit, perfect for the small M series, and will be available for $149.99
When mounted, the 90EX provides a good alternative to a full sized camera and flash.
The biggest news for the EOS M is the availability of a lens adapter allowing you to use your collection of EF and EF-S lenses. At $199, it's not cheap, but a bargain you've already invested in "L" glass.
For more information, check out the Canon EOS M on their website here. [link]
