Canon Digital Learning Center Explains Evaluative Metering

All Canon EOS, Rebel and Powershot cameras come with Evaluative Metering as a factory installed option right out of the box. The video below from CDLC explains why it is the most used setting for many photographers. I use it almost all the time on my equipment, including the EOS-7D Mark II and EOS-1D X Mark II cameras. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com 

Cameras Used in World Press Photo Contest

The winners of the prestigious World Press Photo contest for 2016 have been announced. It showcased the 'best news photos' taken in 2015. Below is a graphic representation, created by the Spanish site Quesabesde, showing the camera brands and specific models used by the winning photographers.

Again, as in past years, Canon is the preferred camera brand. Out of the 45 photos that won awards, 15 were taken with the Canon EOS-5D Mark III and 6 were captured with the Canon EOS-1D X cameras. Nikon's D810 camera were used by 4 of the photographers.

The winner of this year's award, Australian photographer Warren Richardson, used the Canon EOS-5D Mark II and a 24mm f/1.4 at ISO 6400. The photo was illuminated by moonlight.

Canon EOS-80D Camera Final Specifications

Canon EOS-80D APS-C camera

* * *  Canon EOS-80D camera officially announced  * * *

Canon should announce the EOS-70D's replacement, the EOS-80D very soon. Perhaps before the end of this week. Below is the final specifications of the camera.

EOS-80D Camera Final Specifications :

• New 24.2MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF
• DIGIC 6 Processor
• ISO 100-16000 (extended to 25600)
• 7560 pixel RGB + IR photometry sensor
• 45 AF (all points cross type). Maximum 27 points at f/8
• -3EV AF
• Four of the AF area selection modes, including a new “L zone AF”
• Continuous shooting 7 fps. (77 JPEG, 20 RAW)
• 3 fps in silent continuous shooting mode
• 5 fps in Live View mode
• New mirror vibration control system to keep the mirror shock (MVCS)
• Viewfinder 100% view, magnification 0.95 times
• Shutter 30 seconds -1/8000 seconds. Synchro 1/250 sec
• 3 inches 1.04 million dot Vari-angle LCD monitor
• Built-in flash (guide number 12)
• Electronic Level
• A new Picture Style “fine detail”
• 10 kinds of scene mode
• Anti-flicker
• Video is full HD 60 fps. AF tracking
• HDR movie
• Time-lapse movie
• Five types of movies Creative Filters
• Wi-Fi, NFC. Remote shooting
• Media SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible)
• Shutter Durability - 100,000 cycles
• USB terminal, HDMI terminal, microphone jack, headphone jack, remote control terminal
• Improved dust and water
• Battery LP-E6N / LP-E6
• Start-up time is 0.16 seconds
• Remote shooting with EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 and adapter PZ-E1
• List price - around $1,199 in the U.S.
• Size - 139.0 x 105.2 x 78.5mm
• Weight - 730g (650g body only)

Canon U.S.A. CarePAK PLUS Covers Accidental Damage

MELVILLE, N.Y. - Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, launched a promotion for CarePAK PLUS (which includes accidental damage protection) just in time for the holidays. Now through Saturday, January 9, 2016, Canon’s CarePAK PLUS is available at no cost to customers who purchase from a list of six professional Canon EOS DSLR camera bodies and eight EF USM lenses plus “kit” lenses on eligible camera bodies from a Canon Authorized Dealer. Providing protection from accidental damage like coffee spills to additional hardware coverage from excessive wear and tear on mechanical and electrical issues, CarePAK PLUS coverage lasts 13 months from the date of product purchase. And as an added bonus, CarePAK PLUS is transferable, meaning the customer can give the product as a gift this holiday season and the benefits will transfer.

“This complimentary CarePAK PLUS promotion was developed so photographers can focus on capturing family festivities during the holidays, or shooting professionally on assignment, without having to worry about the costs and anxiety associated with accidental damage,” said Eliott Peck, senior vice president and general manager of Canon U.S.A., Inc.’s Imaging Technologies & Communications Group. “By offering this promotion to our customers, we’re letting them know we stand firmly behind them and if it’s needed they can count on Canon’s 100 percent U.S.-based customer service.”

Eligible Canon cameras and lenses include :

•     EOS-6D
•     EOS-7D Mark II
•     EOS-5D Mark III
•     EOS-5DS
•     EOS-5DS R
•     EOS-1D X
•     EF 16–35mm f/2.8L II USM
•     EF 17–40mm f/4L USM
•     EF 24–70mm f/2.8L II USM
•     EF 70–200mm f/2.8L IS II USM
•     EF 100–400mm f/4.5–5.6L IS II USM
•     EF 50mm f/1.2L USM
•     EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM
•     EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM

In addition, any lens included within a kit with an eligible body will be covered. For example, if a customer purchases the Canon EOS-5D Mark III and EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM Lens kit, the lens will be covered since it is included in the box with the body (also known as a “hard bundle”).

The CarePAK PLUS promotion provides protection from kids, pets, and life including accidental damage such as drops, spills, power surges and other unforeseen events. It also includes additional hardware coverage from excessive wear and tear on mechanical and electrical issues. Those that do require a repair under this promotion will also enjoy priority service, free return shipping and support direct from Canon, never a third party. Canon’s CarePAK PLUS gives consumers the confidence that their product will be serviced by Canon factory trained technicians using only Genuine Canon parts. Customers who activate the complimentary CarePAK PLUS offer after taking delivery of their covered product will also have the option to extend the coverage for up to three years from date of purchase at an additional cost.

Details of the promotion are available at http://www.usa.canon.com/carepak-plus including the terms and conditions and the link to register eligible products.

Canon EOS-70Da and EOS-80D Cameras Coming

I have just gotten back from my Polar Bear Photo Tour in the Canadian sub Arctic. Trying to catch up on some Canon photo news when I was away. It was quite a productive trip. The weather was 'milder' than past years and I will be processing the photos when I have a chance to rest up and look at them.

Canon introduced the EOS-60Da in 2012. It is essentially an EOS-60D but geared towards the Astronomy segment of the photography market. Apparently, Canon may be ready to update this camera with the EOS-70Da. The specs will be similar to the EOS-70D but may be equipped with a slightly higher pixel sensor and larger buffer to handle the increase in data processing. The new camera may be announced in time for the Consumer Electronic Show in Las Vegas in January 2016.

The EOS-80D can be expected to debut some time in the first half of 2016. It may come with a mid 20MP sensor, a DIGIC 6 processor, Dual Pixel CMOS technology and improved video capabilities but no 4K video. I am waiting for the EOS-1D X Mk II and EOS-5D Mk IV to debut early to mid 2016 for my next DSLR purchase. Keep checking back for the latest information and development.

Canon Patent - Expandable LCD Camera Display

The Japanese photography blog, Egami, has discovered a new Canon patent for a flexible and expandable LCD screen for digital cameras. The LCD screen is expanded by rotating the grip side of the camera.

The technology may apply to both DSLRs and compact/mirrorless cameras.  It appears the camera can provide a 'larger' LCD screen if the user desires, judging from the translated material.

Patent Publication No. 2015-154223

• Published 2015.8.24
• Filing date 2014.2.14

Canon patents

• Rotatable operation unit
• The first state is a rear LCD expands and contracts, the operating face of the operating unit faces behind
• The second state, the rear LCD is extended, the operation surface of the operation portion faces to the right

Win A Unique Canon Rugby World Cup 2015 Experience

As an Official Sponsor of Rugby World Cup 2015, Canon is pleased to offer fans the chance to win one of eight unique photography experiences. Winners will get to shadow a Getty Images photographer at an official RWC 2015 open training session for one of the participating nations.

The prizes include :

• Pre-event preparation with the Getty Images photographer
• Loan of Canon equipment (DSLR Kit Bag)
• Shoot the open training session (approximately 15-30 minutes)
• Post event review at a Getty Images or Canon location
• A pair of tickets to a RWC 2015 match

How to enter (2 steps) :

Submit your best image showing your 'unique perspective' of Rugby by posting it on social media. We will share a creative theme that will define the judging criteria per submission period.

• Twitter (via your own Twitter profile) including #canonrugbywin
• Instagram (via your own Instagram profile) including #canonrugbywin
• Facebook (by commenting on the relevant Canon UK Facebook post - during the submission period)

Like or follow the relevant Canon UK social media page listed below

• Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/CanonUKLtd
• Twitter : https://twitter.com/CanonUKandIE
• Instagram : https://instagram.com/canonuk/

For each of the 8 prizes there will be a 1 week long submission period. Please see the Terms and Conditions for more information

Any images submitted into the competition may appear on the official RWC 2015 image gallery (website and app). By entering this promotion you are confirming and agreeing to the Promotion’s Terms and Conditions.

Canon Guide To EOS Speedlite Custom Functions

Canon announced the EOS Speedlite 430EX-III RT flash a few days ago. Now the Canon Digital Learning Center posted a Mobile Guide to EOS Speedlites Custom and Personal Functions.

One can refer to this cheat sheet without consulting or carrying a full manual. Click here to download your copy and carry it in your camera bag for quick reference. It offers step-by-step guidance on specific features and techniques for numerous Speedlite models.

Canon Overwhelming Choice At COPA America Tournament

The Canon EOS-7D Mk II and EOS-1DX are my picks as the best APS-C and full frame cameras for sports and wildlife photography. Their replacement, EOS-5D Mk IV and EOS-1DX Mk II will be announced later this year or early 2016. You can see what's in my equipment bag and my works on MichaelDanielHo.com

From Canon:

“We’re proud to know that nearly 90 percent of professional photographers chose Canon equipment to capture exciting moments during Copa America,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “And we were happy to be on site providing service and support to these professionals if and when they needed it.”

Canon knew our professional camera users would be out in force, and so we committed to supporting the pro shooters who use our products, by providing onsite service and support to the photographers and broadcasters using our cameras and lenses to capture the iconic moments of Copa America.

Canon's professional onsite service and support included simple equipment repair, clean and check service and equipment loans to outfit professionals with the proper gear to capture the drama on and off the field. Service and support was available in the media centers in each of the nine stadiums hosting matches in the tournament.

The international soccer tournament took place in Chile from June 11- July 4, 2015 in eight cities, with 12 countries participating, including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Jamaica, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela.

Stats from Copa America 

• More than 89 percent of the professional photographers covering the most dramatic moments of each game from the sidelines of the soccer fields and throughout each stadium were using Canon DSLR cameras and lenses.
• Out of 1,245 professional photographers covering Copa America, more than 1,111 were shooting with Canon equipment
• During the June 15th Chile vs. Mexico match, out of 85 pro photographers covering the game, more than 77 were using Canon (that’s a whopping 91 percent)

Canon Files Patent For New Auto-Focus System

A new patent from Canon involving a new type of auto-focus system has been uncovered by Egami, the Japanese photography blog. Canon is a huge conglomerate and is one of the most prolific companies in research and development. Many patents are filed to protect their intellectual properties and may never end up as a marketable product or technology in the end.

Explanation self interpretation of patent literature

• Patent Publication No. 2015-22264
• Published 2015.2.2
• Filing date 2013.7.23 

Canon patent

• Phase difference detection method to be received by the AF sensor can be reflected incident light from the imaging lens
• The phase difference detection by the image plane phase difference AF
• The phase difference detection by external light AF sensor 

Canon Has Released Updated Version Of Digital Photo Professional Software

Canon has released an updated version of its Digital Photo Professional (DPP) software, which now supports – in addition to its current range of full-frame DSLRs – the EOS-1D Mark IV, EOS 70D, EOS 7D Mk II, EOS 7D, EOS 5D Mark II, EOS 700D and EOS 100D...

Launched in September 2014, Digital Photo Professional 4 was Canon’s first sweeping change to its popular RAW processing software since its original launch. The latest version of DPP – version 4.1.50 – is a response to feedback from owners of older full-frame and APS-C cameras who are looking for the very latest RAW workflow solution.

Additionally, DPP 4.1.50 supports the recently launched EF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM and EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM lenses, the profiles for which are now available for use with the Lens Correction function.

Commenting on the update, Mike Owen, European Professional Imaging Communications Manager, Professional Imaging Department, Canon Europe, said: “DPP 4.0 has proved incredibly popular with our customers and this latest update further extends its appeal to a wider range of users, such as those using the highly successful EOS 5D Mark II. Canon remains firmly committed to offering a complete range of products to photographers and increasingly its software solutions are playing a vital role in delivering the ultimate in image quality from capture to output.”

DPP Version 4.1.50 KEY FEATURES :

•     Faster, real-time adjustments.
•     Improved RAW file workflow.
•     Better, more approachable user interfaces.
•     Compatible with 64-bit native environments.
•     Colour adjustments for specific colour gamuts.
•     Improved highlight recovery provides expanded tonality.
•     Improved shadow recovery function.
•     Support for movie playback.
•     Auto Lighting Optimizer can be applied to JPEG images.
•     Better integration with EOS Utility.

You can download DPP 4.1.50 now, free of charge, from Canon Europe’s support site here. Just click on your camera - EOS-1D X, EOS-1D C, EOS 5D Mark III, EOS 5D Mark II, EOS 6D, EOS-1D Mark IV, EOS 70D, EOS 7D Mark II, EOS 7D, EOS 700D and EOS 100D - and select DPP 4.1.50 from the software options to download.

Canon EOS-6D Firmware 1.1.6 Released

Canon EOS-6D full frame DSLR camera

Canon has released a software update to the EOS-6D camera. Firmware Version 1.1.6 incorporates the following fixes :

• Fixes a phenomenon in which the camera may not first use the center AF point to focus, when the AF point selection is set to automatic in AI Servo AF mode.
• Fixes a phenomenon in which focus cannot be finely adjusted with specific lenses when shooting remotely with EOS Utility software.
• Corrects some Ukrainian language displayed on the menu for ISO Setting.

Firmware Version 1.1.6 is for cameras with firmware up to Version 1.1.4. If the camera’s firmware is already Version 1.1.6, it is not necessary to update the firmware. Click here for download. You can also see a comparison of the recently released EOS-7D Mk II vs. the EOS-6D.

Advice On Buying Your First Canon DSLR Camera

Well, let us start with some hilarity on buying your first DSLR camera with the guys from DigitalRev. My readers know I have been a wildlife photographer using Canon equipment for 25 years. I started out with Minolta cameras before settling on Canon. There are many reputable camera manufacturers out there and I try to be brand agnostics. The best camera is the best camera and the best value is just that, best combination of performance and price, regardless of the manufacturer.

In the world of DSLRs, owning a camera body means buying into a proprietary lens system and most photographers are very reluctant to sell their old gear and acquire new ones just to change to a new manufacturer.

Canon's current lineup of DSLRs range in list prices from about $400 to $6,799. Some models are released recently while others are a few years old. I have picked four recommended Canon cameras for four different categories. You can also read my recommended list of Canon travel and wildlife lenses and see my work on MichaelDanielHo.com.


The best DSLR camera on the market - Canon EOS-1D X

Ever since the introduction of the Canon EOS-1 series camera in 1989, I have made this body my main piece of equipment and have upgraded to almost every new model through the decades. I am not the type who craves the 'latest and greatest' gear but once in a while, a new camera introduction can fill a gap in my equipment lineup. So when the EOS-1D X was announced, it seems to be the camera I am looking for so I placed my order and anxiously waited for the delivery.

The camera arrived last summer and I have put it through some real world, wildlife photo shoots all over the globe, from Alaska and the high Arctic to Africa, Europe and Asia using the Lexar 1000X UDMA 7 memory cards to take full advantage of the 12-14 fps burst rate. Read my review above to get the full details. After the release of Firmware 2.0.3 in January, the camera is even better than before.


The best value Canon APS-C DSLR for advanced users - EOS-7D Mk II

Canon announced the EOS-7D about 4 years ago. Although it does not have the 'latest and greatest' technology, it is still my pick for the best in class. It has an APS-C 18 megapixel CMOS sensor and Dual DIGIC 4 Image Processors, with ISO range from 100 - 12800 and speeds of up to 8 fps. It comes with the new, all cross-type 19-point AF system with improved AI Servo II AF subject tracking and user-selectable AF area selection modes.

It also has an Intelligent Viewfinder, an entirely new technology, provides approximately 100% coverage and displays user-selected AF modes as well as a spot metering circle and on demand grid lines. Read my review above to get the details and performance of this camera. The EOS-7D Mk II was announced September 15, 2014. I have taken delivery of this camera and wrote an extensive review on it after a rigorous field test in the sub Arctic photographing Polar bears.


The best value Canon full frame DSLR for advanced users - EOS-5D Mk III

Canon announced the EOS 5D Mark III in March 2012. It is a full frame camera and comes with a new 22.3 Megapixels sensor. The newest member of the EOS-5D family features a DIGIC 5+ Imaging Processor, 61-point High Density Reticular Autofocus (AF) System, 6 fps continuous shooting speed (50% more than 5D Mark II), dual memory card (1 CF and 1 SD) slots, enhanced video features with better noise reduction, longer video recording times, a built-in headphone jack for audio monitoring and an improved weather-sealed body.

The 5D Mark III shares many features of the Canon EOS-1D X, including the DIGIC 5+, 61-point AF array with up to 41 cross-type points and five dual cross-type, plus the ability to AF @ f/8. The only non EOS-1 camera capable of this feat in Canon's lineup.

The EOS-5D Mark III is well designed for cinematographers and independent filmmakers. It can capture 1080p Full HD video and 720p HD recording. It also has the new H.264 video compression formats for data storage efficiency. The camera can also double up as a Travel and Wildlife body with its ample megapixels for cropping and adequate 6 fps for action shots. Check out my post on the EOS-1D X vs. EOS-5D Mk III comparison.


The best value Canon APS-C DSLR camera for beginners - EOS Rebel T4i/T5i

The EOS Rebel T4i is not Canon's latest body but is an excellent choice for those who wish to leave the point-n-shoot camera behind and enter the DSLR world. The plastic body makes it lighter than higher-end cameras, but the feel is solid. It comes with the APS-C 18 megapixel hybrid CMOS sensor, DIGIC 5+ processor with a 9-point AF system and ISO range from ISO 100 - 12800.

In addition, it is the first DSLR camera to feature a side-hinged, articulating touchscreen LCD monitor. When mated to the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS and EF 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM lens, it can focus with almost complete silence, a feature many videographers love. It is a camera with the proper mix of performance and price for the beginner/amateur DSLR market and therefore is my pick. Check out my post on the Rebel T5i vs. Rebel T4i comparison.

Canon EOS-70D Camera - $815 Refurbished

The Canon EOS-70D is a fine camera and now the Canon Refurbished Store and a big New York online camera merchant are selling the refurbished model for $815 and $880 respectively. You will not find a link to these sites on my blog because I do not accept any advertising or commissioned link. All my recommendations are unbiased.

For those thinking of choosing between the EOS-70D versus the recently announced EOS-7D Mk II camera, take a look at my comparison post between the two. For those who are hesitant in buying Canon refurbished camera equipment, take a look at this post.

Canon EOS-7D Mk II vs EOS-6D Comparison

The Canon EOS-7D Mk II and EOS-6D cameras were announced in September (2014) and September (2012) respectively. I have picked the EOS-7D as the best APS-C camera four years in a row and I eagerly waited for the 7D Mk II's arrival. I took the new camera to the sub Arctic for some vigorous field testing last month and wrote an extensive review on it.

Over the last few years, I have been asked by photo enthusiasts which is a better camera, the Canon EOS-7D or the EOS-6D, and now the EOS-7D Mk II. In the interest of full disclosure, I am not a fan of the 6D. The 6D is a good camera for those who want to get into full frame photography on a limited budget. It has an older sensor of roughly the same megapixel as the 7D Mk II. The native ISO range (64-5600 vs 100-16000) and burst rate (4.5 fps vs 10 fps) are quite a bit less than the 7D Mk II. The 7D Mk II is equipped with Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology and can take excellent videos, especially when paired with the STM lenses.

The big difference is the EOS-7D Mk II has a much bigger buffer (31 vs 16 RAW) and better AF system (65 vs 11 AF cross-type points). This will be crucial when one is primarily interested in sports and wildlife action photography. On the other hand, the EOS-6D is a good choice and value for those who would like to get into more serious landscape photography. For my money, I would look into a good used EOS-5D Mk III camera first before buying a new EOS-6D. You can see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon Sponsors Rugby World Cup 2015

* * *  See what Canon has installed for you at the Rugby World Cup 2015  * * *

Rugby World Cup Limited (RWCL) has announced that Canon, a world-leader in imaging solutions, has joined the family of Rugby World Cup 2015 official sponsors. The deal represents the first time that Canon has partnered with rugby’s showcase event, underscoring the strength and appeal of the Rugby World Cup brand in the global sponsorship marketplace.

RWCL Chairman Bernard Lapasset said: “We are delighted to be welcoming Canon to the Rugby World Cup family as an official sponsor for the first time. This exciting deal with a global leader in imaging further underscores the prestige of the Rugby World Cup brand in the global marketplace as we look forward to what promises to be a very special and record-breaking England 2015 tournament.”

James Leipnik, Chief of Communication, Canon Europe, Middle East and Africa, said: “We are thrilled to extend our long history of involvement in the world’s best sporting events by supporting the Rugby World Cup for the first time. Images play a vital role in bringing the emotions and action of global sports to fans that are not able to experience the events in person.”

Brett Gosper (left), CEO, World Rugby and Managing Director, Rugby World Cup Limited, pictured with Rokus van Iperen (right), President & CEO, Canon Europe, Middle East & Africa on the announcement of Canon as an official sponsor of Rugby World Cup 2015.

Leipnik added: “Our participation presents us with exciting opportunities to support professional photographers and fans with our imaging expertise, as they capture and share world class rugby moments throughout the tournament.”

During Rugby World Cup 2015, Canon will be undertaking a range of activities as an official sponsor, including providing print and copying solutions used by the tournament organizers.

Canon will also be working with Rugby World Cup Limited to deliver a range of image-related initiatives to enhance the spectator experience during the tournament. The Canon Professional Services (CPS) team will be on-site sharing their imaging expertise and helping professional photographers to get the perfect shot throughout the tournament. The dedicated team of CPS technicians at Rugby World Cup 2015 will provide accredited professional photographers with advice, essential maintenance services, equipment loans and help with minor equipment repairs.

Canon’s support of Rugby World Cup 2015 represents a further boost to the commercial programme – the announcement of Canon’s sponsorship follows the appointment of Heineken, Land Rover, Société Générale, DHL, Emirates and MasterCard as Rugby World Cup 2015 Worldwide Partners, Gilbert as Official Ball Supplier, Canterbury of New Zealand as Official Sportswear Supplier, Clifford Chance as Official Law Firm, EY as Business Advisor and Sportfolio as Master Licensee.

The Rugby World Cup 2015 will be hosted in England between 18 September and 31 October 2015 and will be a celebration of rugby and its unique character-building values, exciting and inspiring the nation and the world to play and support the game. England Rugby 2015 is the organizing committee for Rugby World Cup 2015 and will deliver the six-week tournament, hosted in 10 English cities and in Cardiff, Wales. 13 match venues will play host to the 48 games that will celebrate and engage more than two million spectators, including more than 400,000 international travelling fans.

Canon Professional Services In 'Support Matters' Campaign

I have been a wildlife photographer using Canon equipment for 25 years. Over the years, I have used or owned almost all of Canon's film and digital cameras, FD and EF lenses. You can read my recommendation on Canon lens here. 

When I am on a photo shoot anywhere in the globe, it is comforting to know there is a world class technical team and center to call upon for advice and support. Unlike the photographers featured in the videos below, I do not have any affiliation with or receive any form of compensation from Canon. Not all of Canon's equipment are the best but they are consistently high performers across the entire product line, backed by excellent customer service. That is why I have stayed with them all these years. You can see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com 

Canon EOS-6D Camera - $1300 Shipped

Canon EOS-6D full frame DSLR camera

There is a top-rated merchants on eBay selling the Canon EOS-6D camera for $1,300 including free shipping. Hurry, it won't last. This is an excellent deal even though I am not a fan of this body but for those who want to get into full frame digital photography, this is probably one of the best value around. For my money, I will get a Canon refurbished EOS-5D Mk III first before considering this model. You can see my post on the EOS-5D vs. EOS-6D comparison.

You will not find a link to this eBay item because I do not accept any ad or commissioned link on my Blog or website. I am completely unbiased in my recommendation and have no conflict of interest. You can see travel and wildlife photos taken with this camera on my worldwide photo shoots on MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon Australia Announces Light Awards Program

Sydney, Australia, 26 November 2014 – Canon Australia has announced an all-new creative challenge exclusive for Canon camera users in Australia – the Canon Light Awards.

Created by photographers for photographers, the Canon Light Awards will encourage creative shooters to push the boundaries of their imagination, craft and skill. In return, Canon has prepared a program to help them achieve their photography aspirations, including personalised feedback for winners from Canon Master Photographers, and one of Australia’s biggest photo competition prize pools.

“Photographers told us they wanted to become better storytellers and achieve their creative potential, so we developed the Light Awards as the ultimate program for inspiration, experimentation and growth,” says Jason McLean, Director – Consumer Imaging, Canon Australia. “This is a one-of-a-kind competition in Australia, with a total prize pool worth over $150,000, which includes prizes for monthly winners and the grand prize of a luxury photo safari for two in Africa for each category winner.”

Each month, a Canon Master will set a challenge around creating powerful images that tell a story. Entries will be judged by photographers with the three best entries in each category receiving feedback and advice from the Canon Masters, as well as Canon prizes.

In 2016, each of the monthly first place winners will be invited to a cocktail event where the grand prize will be awarded to the overall Student and Open category winners.

The Light Awards will officially launch on the 1 January 2015 with two entry categories : Student (aged between 13 and 25, enrolled in fulltime study) and Open.

To pre-register and receive the first brief on 22 December, visit Canon Light Awards : www.canon.com.au/lightawards

Terms and Conditions apply. Full details will be available on the Canon Australia website from the 1 January 2015.

Canon EOS-5D Mk III DSLR Camera - $2400 Shipped

Canon EOS-5D Mk III DSLR camera

There are two top-rated merchants on eBay selling the Canon EOS-5D Mk III camera for $2,400 including free shipping. Hurry, it won't last. This is an excellent deal and my pick as the best value in full frame DSLR camera two years in a row. This camera is on its way to have a 3 year replacement cycle in the second half of 2015. You can read the latest post here.

You will not find a link to this eBay item because I do not accept any ad or commissioned link on my Blog or website. I am completely unbiased in my recommendation and have no conflict of interest. You can see travel and wildlife photos taken with this camera on my worldwide photo shoots on MichaelDanielHo.com