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"The Features and Results of a Professional Camera. The size that lets you always have it with you." on by dotchrisk
Pros: Completely customizable, Fine resolution, easy operation, excellent build quality, fast fps rate, large 3.0in LCD, Liveview, weather resistant.
Cons: Poor low light autofocusing.
Summary: I purchased my 40D after taking many other dSLR's into consideration. I compared the Canon EOS 40D to the Nikon D80, D300, and the Canon Rebel XSi. What first got my attention with the XSi is the weight. It was very light which would make it ideal for day-to-day and travel use. Then came the problem. I already owned two L series lenses, so my immediate though was that if I put a heavy, well built lens on a light, entry level camera, it would be heavily front weighted and over balanced.
Then came the problem with the Nikon's. First off, I brought the Nikon D80 into consideration because two of my family members already had it and so I've been able to use the camera quite extensively. Although the Nikon D80 was a great camera, I wanted a more professional one, which led me to the D300 [at the time, the D700 was not available]. I went to the store and tried it out. Overall it felt excellent to hold and had very customizable features. The problem with all Nikon's for me was that I had already invested in lenses, filters, a flash, and multiple other accessories, for my previous Canon camera. So then, I was led to the Canon EOS 40D.
Overall I liked that the 40D was a professional camera though wasn't as heavy as the 1D Mark series. It was more functional in the way that it had a built in flash just in case the camera settings alone couldn't get the light setting the way I wanted, it has a large 3.0in LCD which is great for reviewing photos, and being used with the Liveview function, and it's easier to carry around since it doesn't have a vertical grip [optional accessory].
One of the biggest features that made me go with the 40D was the fps (frames per second) burst rate. At 6.5fps, it easily doubled the 3fps offered by the Nikon D80. This was important to me in capturing sports shots, or fast moving everyday shots. I personally always shoot with my camera in Manual mode (i.e. P, Tv [shutter priority], Av [aperture priority], or M [manual]), so being able to take a shot at 1/8000 shutter speed, makes it almost impossible to get a blurry shot (especially when paired with a IS [image stabilized] lens). Along with a very comfortable view finder, it also supports the Liveview function which, when enabled, allows you to frame your photo on the LCD (more like a compact point and shoot), rather that putting your eye up to the camera. This is great if you need to hold the camera above your head or close the the ground. The only downside is that you have to use manual focus when in the Liveview mode. If you're likely to just put the camera on an auto setting and never bother trying to adjust the setting yourself, and don't plan to purchase any L series lenses, or external flashes, I recommend just getting a Rebel Series camera. Its geared toward being a consumer/ beginner camera and easier to carry around given its light weight.
I purchased the Camera with the Kit lens for a few reasons. First, I already own the EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM, and EF 135mm f/2L USM lenses and needed a lens that could cover the area between 35mm and 135mm. Next, the EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM lens that comes with the camera is light, image stabilized, and great for use as an everyday, walk around lens. It takes great pictures; everything for wide angle group/ landscape pictures, to up-close portrait pictures, and is ideal for almost any situation in between. The only problem that I have, no matter which lens I use, happens in low light conditions. When I take photos outside at night or in a poorly lit room, the camera will take a little longer to focus, and sometimes it would focus unless it has something white or something bright in front of it. Usually this isn't much of a problem though it can be a bother when you have to go to an extremely low shutter speed, use the camera in manual focus, and hold it very steady; or you have to use the flash which allows you to use a very fast shutter speed, though it can make for a washed out shot, and sometimes, using a flash isn't even an option.
Overall, the Canon EOS 40D is one of the best day-to-day cameras I've used. Its easy to carry around, feels very solid, very customizable, and is ideal for any situation. Combined with the fast fps burst rate, liveview, the large LCD, the resolution, the build quality and more, the Canon EOS 40D has the features of the professional dSLR that it is, though the compactness that allows it to be used on-the-go, in the studio, or in any situation in between. -
"Great feeling camera that has options for pros and amateurs alike" on by aorio
Pros: Comfortable grip, a ton of options, custom modes, picture style, and much more
Cons: It can only use CF cards
Summary: I have used film for a long time and the 40D is my introduction into prosumer digital ,and with this camera I feel right at home. If you want professional feel, and features with a good price the 40D is the way to go. I have owned the 40D for about a month and have had a great time using it. There are very few areas in which this camera lacks. First i can say that the new 10.2 megapixel sensor is a major upgrade from the 30D's 8 megapixel sensor. Although the sensor has great resolution, I did find that it caused some low light photos to have a green tint, but as long as you know how to use color corection you should be fine. The other thing is the size of the sensor. The APS size is fine but is a little small in some applications. The pop up flash is lacking but as with most DSLRs, the pop up is not designed to give the best lighting. The speed is great for ameuters at 6.5 FPS. The custom modes can be set permanently, even though lori apparently neglected to find that out before writing her review. This is done by pressing the menu button, scrolling over to settings three (wrench with 3 dots), selecting camera user settings, register, and then selecting the appropriate mode dial EX C1, C2..., then OK. The 28-135mm lense is fine in most applications, but it isnt that great in low light. The picture style modes are great, and the monochrome has plenty of filters to fit. The buttons are well layed out and the scroll dial is a great feature. The lack of different storage options are a bummer but with the wide range of size and speed options for CF it isnt too bad. The main LCD is bright and vivid but is hard to see in bright sunlight (as with most LCDs). The status LCD is nice and the backlight is helpful at times. The Digic 3 processer isnt a huge improvement over the Digic 2, but it gives the camera slightly quicker handling. The sensor cleaning function doesnt make a huge difference but the security of having it isn,t so bad. The AF is not the most revolutionary but is fine for most shots. The battery life is great with 1100 shots per charge ( as of my testing) and with the battery grip you can shoot all day and night. The stabilizer is a nice feature but the shutter or AF-ON button has to be pressed for at least 3 seconds for it to kick in which is kind of a bummer. On a final note i will have to say this is mostly a creative mode camera and for point and shoot people simply isn't worth the money. For people who want an easy shooter i would tell them to look more into entry level DSLRs or point and shoot. If you are a beginner photographer, I would recomend something else. Canon is a great company that is always on the cutting edge.
So overall I would definitly recommend the Canon 40D for any Semi-Pro photographer who likes plenty of features, and a solid feeling camera.
Reveiw by:
Andrew Oriani -
"Good upgrade from Canon Powershot S3" on by raoulduke1975
Pros: Good weight, high speed shooting, fast start up, full control, good flash range
Cons: High learning curve from a point and shoot, overwelming manual
Summary: I got this camera from a trusted retailer for $1299. I had been using the Canon Powershot S3 and wanted a step up. Considered the XT, XTI and XSI, but considered them almost a sideways move from the S3. Knowing very little about DSLRs, I was shooting in 'P' mode the first night, making adjustments and enjoying the full control of the lens. I have searched out some videos on Youtube, mostly reviews and instructional, and found quite a few, check it out. I was close to choosing the Nikon D80 at a lower price, but I have owned Canon products and never had a problem. The 40D just felt right in my hands. I know that's not a technical term, but for those who are starting out, I researched this subject to death and am very happy and satisified with my choice.
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"Smooth as silk, fast AF, great feel, quality build" on by zakb7
Pros: build quality, high-ISO performance, fast AF, burst rate, big screen, user-defined presets on the dial, AF-ON button, sensor cleaning
Cons: LCD resolution, extraneous direct print button, only 3 bracketed exposures
Summary: I have no idea why anyone would compare this to a Nikon D80; if you like the D80, which is, I'm sure, a nice camera, then get it. But it's in another league compared to this one in every useful way.
It's a great camera with smooth controls, and everything at your fingertips. Its performance at ISO 1600 and 3200 are superb, I can't figure out how anyone could argue with this if they've spent time with the camera.
The LCD is soft, probably its only real problem - but at least it renders colors accurately, which is all I need it to do.
The guy having trouble with his skin tones is doing something wrong; skin tones can even be adjusted before you shoot with this camera. The amount of control in nearly every area on this camera is impressive. -
"great travel photo DSLR" on by irkillroy
Pros: great iso speed, and FPS
Cons: not a great built-in flash, gives an un-natural color
Summary: I would recommend this camera to anyone who has children in sports or are planning a trip where they want to be able to reach out and touch the sites they plan to see. cannon has great lenses and the stabilizers on them work amazing.
I would buy it through amazon.com, about 100 dollars cheaper.
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