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Showing posts with label Canon EOS-1D X Mk II vs Nikon D5. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Canon EOS-1D X Mk II vs Nikon D5. Show all posts

Tuesday, June 20, 2017

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Refurbished Camera $4,799 With Warranty




The Canon Refurbished Store has the top-of-the-line EOS-1D X Mark II camera for $4,799 including free shipping and a one year factory warranty. Hurry, it won't last. This is a very good deal. I bought this camera when it first came out and have taken it on many global photo tours.

Read my comprehensive review of this amazing DSLR. For those who are interested in comparing the EOS-1DX2 to the Nikon D5, read my earlier post. You can follow my travels on Facebook  Twitter , see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

You will not find a link to this item because I am not receiving any compensation from Canon. I do not accept any ad or commissioned link on my blog or website. You can easily find the item by Googling it yourself. I am completely unbiased in my recommendation and have no conflict of interest. 

Tuesday, January 31, 2017

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Camera AF Setting Guidebook


Canon EOS-1D X Mark II full frame DSLR camera


I came back last week from a rather successful East Africa Wildlife Photo Tour. This was my first photo safari of 2017 and this will be another busy season for me. The equipment I brought with me worked well. I used the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II, EOS-5Ds cameras, EF 400mm f/4 DO IS IIEF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II and EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II lens.

You can follow my travels on Facebook and Twitter. See my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

The EOS-1D X Mark II camera was announced in February 2016. My readers know I have picked the EOS-1D X as the best full frame camera for sports and wildlife photography four years in a row. I have owned the Mark II model for about a year now and have taken it on photo shoots from the high Arctic to Southern Africa and many places in between.

The new camera has won many great reviews, including yours truly and now Canon Digital Learning Center has produced a downloadable AF settings Guidebook :

This downloadable .PDF guidebook from Canon’s engineers will clarify many of the details about the incredible AF system in the EOS-1D X Mark II camera.  Information about the effect of different AF Cases, and various other menu settings, is spelled-out to help you make the most effective use of this camera and its powerful AF capabilities.  

Keep in mind — the vast majority of these apply to the 61-point AF system in Canon’s EOS 5D Mark IV camera (which uses the exact same AF sensor), so most of this will be useful information to owners of the Mark IV camera as well.  We’re confident having access to this file, on your computer or in a mobile device, will answer many of the questions which may arise as you use either of these cameras.

in addition to a handy downloadable AF Setting Guidebook for smartphone and tablets :

The 148-page guidebook explains in detail the technical elements of the AF system and highlights other key functionalities that photographers need to know and understand in order to get the very best from Canon’s pro-series flagship, such as Movie Servo AF, using Auto ISO and much more.

In the guidebook are detailed overviews and explanations of the new AF algorithm and AI Servo AF III+ along with a list of the AF Configuration Tool and Presets, with comprehensive explanations on how each Case Setting works and when to choose them.

The guidebook is divided into six parts, consisting of two chapters on the AF Configuration Tool (Presets and Parameters), as well as chapters on AF area selection modes, 61-point reticular AF cross-type points, release property settings and anti-flicker shooting plus utilising the AF and Movie Servo AF and other useful functions.

EOS-1D X Mark II AF Setting Guidebook : Computer, Smartphone & Tablet versions

It’s a fascinating read for anyone wanting to get under the skin of their EOS-1D X Mark II and will appeal to professionals who want a handy guide which can be stored on phone or tablet. Included in the book is a lens guide which lists every major EF lens and the number and placement of cross-type points that can be used with them.

There are many useful shortcuts explained in the guide, such as using the M-Fn button to assign shooting functions and various other customisable options. As you read through the guide, it becomes very clear that this camera can be set up precisely as you need it.

To download the new Canon EOS-1D X Mark II AF Setting Guidebook for your computer and laptop, click here or for your smartphones and tablets just click here.

Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Camera User Guidebook


Canon EOS-1D X Mark II with EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM lens


The EOS-1D X Mark II camera was announced in February 2016. My readers know I have picked the EOS-1D X as the best full frame camera for sports and wildlife photography four years in a row. I have owned the Mark II model for about seven months now and have taken it on photo shoots from the high Arctic to Southern Africa and many places in between.

The new camera has won many great reviews, including yours truly and now Canon has produced a handy downloadable AF Setting Guidebook for smartphone and tablets :

The 148-page guidebook explains in detail the technical elements of the AF system and highlights other key functionalities that photographers need to know and understand in order to get the very best from Canon’s pro-series flagship, such as Movie Servo AF, using Auto ISO and much more.

In the guidebook are detailed overviews and explanations of the new AF algorithm and AI Servo AF III+ along with a list of the AF Configuration Tool and Presets, with comprehensive explanations on how each Case Setting works and when to choose them.

The guidebook is divided into six parts, consisting of two chapters on the AF Configuration Tool (Presets and Parameters), as well as chapters on AF area selection modes, 61-point reticular AF cross-type points, release property settings and anti-flicker shooting plus utilising the AF and Movie Servo AF and other useful functions.

EOS-1D X AF Setting Guidebook : Smartphone & Tablet version

It’s a fascinating read for anyone wanting to get under the skin of their EOS-1D X Mark II and will appeal to professionals who want a handy guide which can be stored on phone or tablet. Included in the book is a lens guide which lists every major EF lens and the number and placement of cross-type points that can be used with them.

There are many useful shortcuts explained in the guide, such as using the M-Fn button to assign shooting functions and various other customisable options. As you read through the guide, it becomes very clear that this camera can be set up precisely as you need it.

To download the new Canon EOS-1D X Mark II AF Setting Guidebook for smartphones and tablets just click here.

Tuesday, June 28, 2016

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Camera Image Corruption With Sandisk CFast Card


Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera





I have just returned from my High Arctic Photo Tour testing the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera in the cold and sometimes damp Svalbard archipelago, deep inside the Arctic circle. Once again, I am impressed by the new body but now I have to take some time to get back to the daily routine, process the photos and get ready for my next trip to further test the camera in a different part of the world and environment.

The Arctic is melting fast, at least in the summer time. Global warming is real and worrisome, especially for some Arctic wildlife, like the Polar bears, which depends almost entirely on sea ice for its survival. You can see my equipment bag and more of my works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Now a bit of catching with the photography news while I was away in the High Arctic since there was no Internet access on the expedition ship. Canon announced a possible Sandisk CFast card image corruption with the EOS-1D X Mark II camera.

It has been confirmed that when shooting still images with the EOS-1D X Mark II digital SLR camera launched in April 2016 with SanDisk CFast cards, the following phenomenon will occur. We would like to offer our sincere apologies to users who have been inconvenienced by this issue.

Phenomenon

If a SanDisk CFast card is inserted into the camera or a card reader, the bottom part of still images recorded may be corrupted.

This phenomenon is confirmed in images recorded in both the RAW and JPEG formats. In the RAW file, the image corruption may appear in the bottom right corner of the image. In the JPEG file, the image corruption may appear in the lower third area of the image. 

Please Note :

Movie recording is not affected by this phenomenon.

Still images or movies recorded to CF cards are not affected by this phenomenon.

Cause

This phenomenon is caused by SanDisk CFast cards. The camera does not cause this phenomenon.

Affected Products

SanDisk CFast cards.

Image corruption may be experienced with the cards listed below :

The “xxx” at the end of the product number varies depending on the sales region.
SanDisk Extreme PRO CFast2.0 64GB (SDCFSP-064G-xxx)
SanDisk Extreme PRO CFast2.0 128GB (SDCFSP-128G-xxx)
SanDisk Extreme PRO CFast2.0 64GB (SDCFSP-064G-xxxA)
SanDisk Extreme PRO CFast2.0 128GB (SDCFSP-128G-xxxA)
SanDisk Extreme PRO CFast2.0 64GB (SDCFSP-064G-xxxB)
SanDisk Extreme PRO CFast2.0 128GB (SDCFSP-128G-xxxB)

Market Support 

Although it has been confirmed that this phenomenon is caused by SanDisk CFast cards, to prevent the occurrence of this phenomenon, Canon will be releasing a camera firmware (Ver 1.0.2) on the Web for a download service in early July.

All new EOS-1D X Mark II cameras distributed by Canon Australia and Canon New Zealand after June 27th will have firmware Version 1.0.2.

We would like to apologize for the inconvenience, but we would like to ask our customers to refrain from using SanDisk CFast cards when shooting still images until the new camera firmware becomes available.

Workaround

It is our understanding that image files of about 16MB or less recorded immediately before the camera’s power is turned off may become corrupted. Below are the methods available to help avoid image corruption when powering off the camera :

The Camera can be powered off in four ways :

1) When the power switch is set to OFF
2) When the card slot cover is opened
3) When the power is turned off due to the Auto Power Off setting
4) When the battery is removed

The phenomenon can be prevented by performing the procedure below:
Before powering the camera off, please take extra shots*1 because the extra shots taken immediately before the camera is powered off may experience the corruption and not the images taken before the extra shots were taken.

*1 The table below shows the most popular file types used and how many extra shots are recommended.

File Size (Approx.)  and how many extra shots one needs to
take in order to meet the 16MB or larger requirement

  23.2MB =  1
  L: 6.2MB =  3
  M1: 4.3MB =  4
  M2: 3.4MB = 5
  S: 2.2MB =  8

Back From My High Arctic Wildlife Photo Tour


Arctic Polar bears in peril - their Last Stand

I have just returned from my High Arctic Photo Tour testing the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera in the cold and sometimes damp Svalbard archipelago, deep inside the Arctic circle. Once again, I am impressed by the new body but now I have to take some time to get back to the daily routine, process the photos and get ready for my next trip to further test the camera in a different part of the world and environment.

The Arctic is melting fast, at least in the summer time. Global warming is real and worrisome, especially for some Arctic wildlife, like the Polar bears, which depends almost entirely on sea ice for its survival. You can see my equipment bag and more of my works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Now a bit of catching up to the photography news while I was away in the High Arctic since there was no Internet access on the expedition ship. The United Kingdom's recent vote to leave the European Union has thrown a monkey wrench into Canon Inc.s business plans.

Canon Inc. Chief Executive Fujio Mitarai said on Friday he was "very dismayed" by Britain's shock decision to leave the European Union, saying the move hurt Japan's economic growth prospects.

"In Japan, while we can expect to see a temporary surge in the value of the yen, the U.K.'s decision could also bring a halt to the economic recovery that had been underway," Mitarai, head of the camera and printer maker, said in a statement.

"We look to the Japanese government to implement strong monetary measures." Europe accounted for 28 percent of Canon's sales in 2015, although it did not provide details by country. Canon's biggest problem is the relentless rise of the Japanese Yen into relation to other currencies like the US Dollar and Euro, even though the Japanese economy is moribund. This means when the company's earnings are translated in to Yen, they appear lower and thus affect investors' sentiment and stock price of the company.

I think Canon should look past the current turmoil because in the long run, the company's products will drive profit and growth, not what goes on in one country or region of the world, since Canon is a global, diversified conglomerate. They should pay particular attention to the burgeoning challenge of higher end mirrorless cameras coming from Sony to their very profitable EOS line of DSLRs like the EOS-1D X Mark II and soon-to-be-released EOS-5D Mark IV cameras. 

Wednesday, May 25, 2016

Nikon D500 APS-C Camera Review






I have just returned from my Upper Amazon/Peruvian Highlands Photo Tour testing the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera in hot, steamy jungles and cold, two miles plus high, Andean mountains. Overall, I am quite impressed by the new body but now I have to take some time to get back to the daily routine, process the photos and get ready for my next trip to again test the camera in a whole new part of the world and environment.

Nikon announced the D500, their top-of-the-line APS-C camera in January, 2016. The new body appears to be very impressive on paper. I have no interest in the 4K video or the SnapBridge features. They do little for a wildlife photographer like myself but the new AF system on the D500 looks interesting.

The D500 will give Canon some challenge in the cropped frame camera arena. My readers know I have picked the Canon EOS-7D as the best value APS-C camera in wildlife photography four years in a row. The EOS-7D Mark II was announced over one and a half years ago and I expect Canon to release a major firmware upgrade to the Mark II some time in the second half of 2016 or early 2017 to extend the life of the camera and tuneup the AF system a bit until the Mark III appears some time in late 2017 or early 2018. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Nikon Professional Services has created a Shooting Tips Page for D500 users. It covers useful features and functions for Sports AF and Movie editions. Take a look at the videos below for a review of the camera.





Thursday, April 21, 2016

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Camera Arriving in North America Very Soon


Canon EOS-1D X Mark II full frame DSLR camera
I have just returned from a rather successful wildlife photo trip to India. Witnessed two tiger kills from beginning to end on a Spotted and Sambar Deer plus Elephants and Monkeys mating, in addition to many new bird species for me. Trying to get back to writing my blog and catching up with the latest photography and NAB 2016 news. It will take me a week or two to get back to speed and precious little time to process the photos because by then, my next tour will be here already. I have a very busy Spring and Summer touring season ahead of me. You can see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com

My new Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera will arrive at the end of April. The current EOS-1D X body has been my pick as the best pro DSLR for wildlife photography four years in a row. Very excited to put the new camera through my real world global photo shoots to test its performance and claims and write a comprehensive review soon.

The noticeable 'bump' on the Mark II above the viewfinder contains the built-in GPS system. It does not have WiFi on board. As a professional camera, the performance and reliability of the body must come first. Getting reliable WiFi signals through a magnesium alloy body proved to be a challenge for Canon. Wireless communication has to take second place and not too many sports or wildlife photographers I know need that 'instant' communication capability anyway.

The upcoming EOS-5D Mark IV will have both capabilities built-in. The 'bump' on the new Mark IV DSLR, containing the GPS and WiFi modules, will be made of synthetic resin material to accommodate both assemblies and ensure they work reliably.

Tuesday, March 29, 2016

Nikon D5 Camera - 'Hands On' First Impression




Nikon announced the D5 camera in January. The 'silly' video below from DigitalRev showing off the D5 is just a step above a commercial and shed little light on the performance of the new body.

You can read my post on the comparison between the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II vs Nikon D5 and see how the D5 'shoots at ISO 3280000'. I am expecting delivery of my Canon EOS-1D X Mark II in late April. Will be taking it on a few real world wildlife photo shoots around the globe and writing a comprehensive review soon. I have little doubt it will be a worthy successor to the venerable EOS-1D X camera.


Monday, March 28, 2016

Nikon Professional Services Offers Tips on D5 Camera


Nikon D5 full frame camera

Nikon Professional Services released a Technical Solutions Guide with tips for the recently announced D5 camera. For a comparison of the Nikon D5 and Canon EOS-1D X Mark II, click here.

Topics Include :

Saturday, March 12, 2016

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Camera 4K Video Movie


Canon EOS-1D X Mark II with EF 50mm f/1.4 lens

Canon announced the EOS-1D X's replacement, the Mark II camera on February 1. The camera will start delivery some time next month. Below is a 4K video from Canon shot with the new camera. You can also see the high dynamic range test with the camera here.

I am very anxious to take delivery of this body and take it on real world wildlife photography shoots around the globe. You can see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com


Thursday, February 25, 2016

Canon Europe Offers 2 Year Warranty on EOS-1D and Cinema EOS Cameras




Canon is reinforcing its commitment to high levels of service with the announcement of a two year warranty on all EOS-1D and Cinema EOS camera bodies, providing photographers and filmmakers with outstanding cover, free of charge.

The offer consists of a one-year extension on top of the one-year Standard European Warranty System (EWS), under identical terms and conditions, and is absolutely free of charge. This gives photographers a total warranty period of two years from date of first purchase.

The two-year warranty is valid on products originally distributed by Canon within the EU countries plus Lichtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. To be able to claim the additional year of warranty you must have purchased the product in one of these countries.

This extended warranty will apply to cameras like the Cinema EOS C300 Mark II and the recently announced EOS-1D X Mark II. Wonder why Canon is not extending the warranty outside Europe at this time. My readers know I have owned the EOS-1 series of cameras since 1989, when they were first introduced. In all the years I have owned them, there was never any problems in the first two years, provided they are properly cared for and serviced. After that, things can go wrong, as with any mechanical and electronic parts. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Monday, February 15, 2016

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Camera Dynamic Range Test


Canon EOS-1D X Mark II full frame DSLR camera






Canon announced the EOS-1D X Mark II camera on February 2. Delivery is schedule for second half of April. My readers know I have picked the current EOS-1D X as the best full frame DSLR for sports and wildlife photography four years in a row.

Once my camera arrives, I will take it on a few grueling photo shoots around the globe to test the new body and write a comprehensive review. At DPReview, someone posted two photos shot with a pre-production EOS-1D X Mark II and EOS-1D X cameras.

The test attempts to demonstrate the dynamic range improvement of the Mark II over the Mark I. The photos were underexposed by about 5 stops and corrected in post processing. The left side shows the new camera vs the old one on the right. Frankly, on one should be surprised by the difference since there has been a gap of about 4 years between the announcement dates of the two models.

I like to test equipment under real world conditions. By the way, my current EOS-1D X 'died' on me last year while I was on an overseas wildlife shoot. One of the circuit boards malfunctioned and it had acted up now and then before the incident but there was no diagnostic test at Canon's Service Center to identify failing boards. It can happen any time and I was not too happy it gave out during a shoot. The camera was only about 3 1/2 years old. By comparison, my EOS-1D Mark IV is about 6 years old and still going strong.

Of course mass produced equipment do fail infrequently so I am philosophical about it and that's why one has backup equipment. Hope the Mark II's quality control has been much improved after 4 years. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Tuesday, February 9, 2016

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II at Super Bowl 50


Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera




Canon announced the EOS-1D X Mark II camera on February 2. The new camera made its first public debut at Super Bowl 50. You can see high resolution sample photos and 4K videos shot with the camera from Canon by clicking on the above link.

My readers know I have picked the EOS-1D X as the best full frame camera for sports and wildlife photography four years in a row. There is every reason to believe the new camera will continue this tradition.


Feb 9, 2016 – MELVILLE, N.Y. – On February 7th, the top sports photographers from across the country gathered in the San Francisco Bay Area to cover the Big Game between the teams from Carolina and Denver. With more than 70 percent of the photographers in the San Francisco stadium using Canon EOS DSLR cameras and EF lenses, Canon’s iconic white lenses filled the sidelines from the opening kickoff to the final whistle.

“Seeing such a large number of the country’s most talented sports photographers choosing Canon equipment to photograph the country’s biggest sporting event of the year is always such a humbling honor for Canon. Their iconic images of the game will be seen by millions of people around the world for years to come, and this drives Canon to ensure both our products and support live up to the requirements and expectations of our loyal customers,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc.

Veteran sports photographers and Canon Explorers of Light Peter Read Miller and Damian Strohmeyer were on the sidelines using the brand-new EOS-1D X Mark II DSLR Camera, the first public use of the camera in the U.S. since being announced to the public on February 1. "The EOS-1D X Mark II is a marked improvement in file quality, and the performance was huge at higher ISO," said Strohmeyer. "This camera is a big step up!"

A full complement of friendly and knowledgeable staff from Canon Professional Services (CPS), a fixture at major sporting events throughout the year, were on site at the stadium for the entire weekend providing comprehensive equipment maintenance, extensive equipment loans and expert technical support to the major photo agencies and individual photographers covering the game. "The equipment loan from CPS really gave us some opportunities for our coverage we wouldn't have otherwise," said Carlos Avila Gonzalez, photo/video journalist for the San Francisco Chronicle. "When an event as large and globally renowned as this is in your area, you have to step up to deliver the kind of work that keeps readers and viewers engaged and constantly seeing your publication as the go-to source for visual content. Canon's help with equipment allowed us to provide that kind of coverage."

Canon Professional Services will be proudly attending to photographers at over 32 events this year including major sporting, auto racing, Hollywood, and political events throughout the year.

In addition to the lenses on the sideline, Canon’s line of HD broadcast lenses were also used extensively to help deliver the game to more than 110 million television viewers.

Monday, February 1, 2016

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Camera Officially Announced


Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera
I am returning home soon from my Patagonia Photo Tour, just in time for the official announcement of the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera. Below is the final specifications. The specs look conservative, compared to the 'flamboyant Nikon D5' numbers but Canon has never been a flashy company. Pre-order is being taken now and I have placed my order already.

You can see sample full resolution photos and 4K videos taken with the camera from Canon. Shipment is expected around mid April. Once I have taken delivery of the new camera in April, I will give it the usual real world wildlife photo shoot tests and write a comprehensive report on it. Keep checking back for my review.





















MELVILLE, N.Y., February 1, 2016 – Rising to meet the rigorous and evolving demands of professional photographers and videographers, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, is proud to announce the new EOS-1D X Mark II DSLR camera. With a new 20.2 megapixel 35mm Full Frame Canon CMOS sensor and Dual DIGIC 6+ Image Processors, the EOS-1D X Mark II professional digital camera delivers stunning image quality and speed. Combining the ability to capture high-resolution still images at speeds up to 14 frames per second as well as stunning high-definition video up-to-4K 60P featuring Canon’s proprietary Dual Pixel CMOS Autofocus (AF) technology, the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera becomes the ideal camera for any professional image creator.

The flagship Canon EOS-1D X Mark II features several firsts for EOS cameras including :

  • Newly developed 20.2 megapixel 35mm Full Frame Canon CMOS sensor;
  • Continuous shooting speeds of up-to-14 frames per second (fps) with Auto Exposure (AE) and predictive
  • AF for viewfinder shooting and up to 16 fps1 in Live View mode;
  • Dual DIGIC 6+ Image Processors that transfer image data at extremely high speed for extended bursts during continuous shooting – up-to-170 consecutive RAW images at 14 fps. When shooting JPEG images you’re only limited by memory card capacity 2;
  • Capable of shooting 4K 60P and Full HD 120P video with Dual Pixel CMOS AF;
  • Enhanced wireless functionality (with the optional accessory Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E8) that supports the new high-speed IEEE 802.11ac standard and the  ability to easily transfer photos and videos to compatible smartphones using Canon’s Camera Connect app*;
  • Digital Lens Optimizer to help correct aberrations in-camera (a feature that previously required post-processing on an external computer);
  • Improved 61-point viewfinder AF with expanded coverage and all AF-points selectable and supported to a maximum aperture of f/8;
  • Improved AI Servo III+ predictive AF algorithm for better accuracy;
  • Continuous red illumination of all AF points within the camera’s Intelligent Viewfinder II.
  • Compatibility with both CF and CFast memory cards for optimal performance and versatility.


The Ultimate EOS Camera : Continuing a Legacy of High Speed and Performance

Building on the success of the Canon EOS-1D X professional digital camera, the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera is designed to deliver high-performance, speed, and image quality, with improved comfort for professional photographers. In addition to the new 20.2 megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and Dual DIGIC 6+ Image Processors, the new EOS-1D X Mark II DSLR camera includes an improved 61-point High-Density Reticular AF II system with all AF points selectable by the user (and up to 41 cross-type points depending on the lens in use).

The improved AF system includes expanded coverage that supports AF at maximum apertures up to f/8 with all 61 points for high precision autofocus even when using EF super-telephoto lenses with an EF extender. The camera also boasts excellent dynamic range and reduced color noise compared to its predecessor throughout its standard ISO speed range of 100 – 51,200. Expansion ISO speeds of 50, 102,400, 204,800 and 409,600 are also available.  A first for the Canon EOS-1D series, this camera also features a 360,000-pixel RGB+IR metering sensor with enhanced precision and performance compared to its predecessor, improving facial recognition and tracking, as well as nature scenes.

Additionally, the advanced AE system can detect and compensate for flickering light sources such as sodium vapor lamps that are often used in gymnasiums and swimming pools. When enabled, this anti-flicker system automatically adjusts shutter release timing to help reduce disparities in exposure and color especially during continuous burst shooting.

For filmmakers and photographers looking to do more than still photography alone with a DSLR camera and EF lenses, the EOS-1D X Mark II camera offers high resolution DCI 4K video at frame rates up-to-60p, with smooth movie recording to an in-camera CFast 2.0 memory card. An additional card slot supports standard CF memory cards up to UDMA 7. The built-in headphone jack supports real-time audio monitoring. Two additional EOS ‘firsts’ include 4K Frame Grab and 120p Full HD recording. The camera’s 4K Frame Grab function allows users to isolate a frame from recorded 4K video and create an 8.8 megapixel still JPEG image in-camera.

When combined with the EOS-1D X Mark II’s high-sensitivity full-frame CMOS sensor, the new camera’s ability to record Full HD video at frame rates up to 120p will allow videographers to produce high quality slow motion video even in extremely low light. To make video shooting even more intuitive, the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera’s touch-screen LCD allows videographers to select the camera’s AF point before and during video recording with Dual Pixel CMOS AF, which provides responsive, accurate and quiet camcorder-like video autofocus to DSLRs.

“The innovations within Canon’s new EOS-1D X Mark II DSLR camera clearly set a new standard for professional cameras,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “In developing the EOS-1D X Mark II camera, we looked to incorporate user-requested performance enhancements to bring professional photographers the ultimate EOS camera, a camera that has matured and been developed to meet their evolving needs.”

“Having f/8 capability on all 61 AF points is a tremendous benefit to wildlife photographers,” noted nature photographer and Canon Explorer of Light Charles Glatzer. “In order to capture tight shots of animals without disturbing them, I frequently have to use very long lenses—sometimes with an extender attached, which further diminishes the aperture. The improved AF allows me to frame the shot exactly the way I envision it, without having to compromise.”

“This camera is a huge step forward,” remarked acclaimed photographer and Canon Explorer of Light Damian Strohmeyer. “Shooting sports in a gym at 8,000 ISO, it looked as good as 800 ISO from a generation or two ago. The images are tack-sharp, and the autofocus just doesn’t miss. I’ve been amazed by what I’ve seen so far.”

“The autofocus was awesome,” agreed Peter Read Miller, sports photographer and Canon Explorer of Light.  “The higher frame rate coupled with the speed of the CFast card was a definite advantage. It just never buffered out, even shooting RAW.”

The new EOS-1D X Mark II camera also offers a built-in GPS** receiver with compass for precise geo-tagged information of latitude, longitude, elevation and direction. This is especially valuable to wildlife photographers and photojournalists who need to track their locations, as well as providing sports photographers the ability to sync a multiple-camera setup with extreme accuracy and precision. It is also possible to use the camera’s built-in GPS to automatically sync the camera’s time to the atomic clock, an invaluable feature to professionals.

An improved grip also makes the camera easier for photographers to hold and maneuver while shooting. In response to feedback from professional EOS users, the AF points in the EOS-1D X Mark II camera’s Intelligent Viewfinder II can be illuminated in red for improved visibility, especially when shooting in dark locations. AF sensitivity in low light has been doubled from EV -2 to EV -3 at the center AF point when the camera is set to One-Shot AF, enabling the camera to autofocus in extremely dark shooting conditions such as a moonlit nightscape. Viewfinder AF coverage has also been increased for greater compositional flexibility.

As with all EOS-1D series cameras, the EOS-1D X Mark II’s rugged construction and magnesium alloy body is weather resistant. The camera also features improved controls and more in-camera image quality enhancements than ever before, including a Digital Lens Optimizer function offering high quality aberration correction which can now be achieved without an external computer. This feature makes it easier for professional photographers to deliver finished files to their clients, especially in situations when access to a personal computer is impractical or inconvenient.

The estimated retail price for the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II is $5999 (MSRP) for the body or $6299 for the Premium Kit which includes a 64 GB CFast memory card and card reader. The new camera is scheduled to begin shipping to authorized Canon USA dealers in April 2016***. For more information and the full list of product specifications, visit : usa.canon.com/EOS1DXMarkII

EOS-1D X Mark II main specifications :
  • 20.2MP CMOS sensor. Dynamic range improvement 
  • Dual pixel CMOS AF 
  • Dual DIGIC6 + processor 
  • ISO 100-51200 (expanded in 409600) 
  • Continuous shooting of 14 frames / sec. 16 frames / second in the live view mode 
  • New mirror drive system that enables high-speed continuous shooting 
  • Continuous shooting The number of storable RAW at 170 frames (at 16 frames / sec.). Unlimited in JPEG 
  • 61-point AF system, which range is expanded. 41-point cross-type 
  • AF is -3EV correspondence 
  • With lighting AF point red
  • AI AF accuracy and motion tracking has improved Servo AF III +
  • 360000 dot photometric sensor. EOS iSA. EOS iTR
  • 0.76 times the viewfinder magnification. 100% field of view
  • Video 4K 60fps. Full HD120fps. 4K video can be recorded in internal CFast2.0 media
  • Movie Servo AF
  • LCD monitor 3.2 inches, 1.62 million dots. Touch panel.
  • Camera digital lens Optimizer (DLO). Lens aberration correction. Diffraction correction
  • CFast2.0 and compact flash of dual card slot
  • 2-axis electronic level
  • USB3.0 terminal, HDMI terminal
  • W-FI option (WFT-E8A)
  • The size of 158mm x 167.6mm x 82.6mm
  • Weight 1340g
  • List price - $5,999 in the USA

What’s in the box :
  • EOS-1D X Mark II Camera Body
  • Battery Pack LP-E19
  • Battery Charger LC-E19
  • Wide Strap
  • Eyecup Eg 
  • Cable Protector
  • Interface Cable IFC-150U II
  • EOS Digital Solution Disk 

Canon Digital Learning Center has posted several articles highlighting specific features in the newly announced EOS 1D X Mark II camera.

The Articles Include : 

Saturday, January 30, 2016

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera latest specs - Announcement first week of February


Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera


I am still on my Patagonia Photo Tour in South America. You can follow my trip on Facebook and Twitter. Will return home next week just in time for the official announcement of the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II.

The following is the latest specifications on the much anticipated camera. As usual, Canon has apparently chosen not to introduce their latest DIGIC 7 processor on their top-of-the-line DSLR. The new processor will probably make its first appearance on a PowerShot camera, just like the DIGIC 6.
At first glance, the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II specifications may not look as flashy as the new Nikon D5, especially the AF points and ISO numbers but I caution my readers not to just compare numbers since the Nikon figures are primarily designed to catch the eyes of photographic magazine writers and make a splash.

Once the new camera arrives, I will take it on a few real world photo shoots around the globe and put it through some rigorous tests. I expect it to be evolutionary better than the EOS-1D X, which I have picked as the best full frame DSLR for sports and wildlife photography four years in a row.
You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com 

Latest specs on Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera :

  • 20.2MP CMOS sensor. Dynamic range improvement 
  • Dual pixel CMOS AF 
  • Dual DIGIC6 + processor 
  • ISO 100-51200 (expanded in 409600) 
  • Continuous shooting of 14 frames / sec. 16 frames / second in the live view mode 
  • New mirror drive system that enables high-speed continuous shooting 
  • Continuous shooting The number of storable RAW at 170 frames (at 16 frames / sec.). Unlimited in JPEG 
  • 61-point AF system, which range is expanded. 41-point cross-type 
  • AF is -3EV correspondence 
  • With lighting AF point red
  • AI AF accuracy and motion tracking has improved Servo AF III +
  • 360000 dot photometric sensor. EOS iSA. EOS iTR
  • 0.76 times the viewfinder magnification. 100% field of view
  • Video 4K 60fps. Full HD120fps. 4K video can be recorded in internal CFast2.0 media
  • Movie Servo AF
  • LCD monitor 3.2 inches, 1.62 million dots. Touch panel.
  • Camera digital lens Optimizer (DLO). Lens aberration correction. Diffraction correction
  • CFast2.0 and compact flash of dual card slot
  • GPS built-in
  • 2-axis electronic level
  • USB3.0 terminal, HDMI terminal
  • W-FI option (WFT-E8A)
  • The size of 158mm x 167.6mm x 82.6mm
  • Weight 1340g
  • List price - about $6,000 in the USA

Sunday, January 17, 2016

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Coming Early February





The long awaited Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera will be announced the first week of February. Invitations have gone out to the photography press and others. Nikon announced their top-of-the-line D5 camera at the CES 2016.

You can take a look at the comparison between the D5 and EOS-1D X Mark II cameras from my earlier post. I am on a wildlife photo shoot in Patagonia and will return just in time for the big announcement. Keep checking back for the latest info and more to come from the bottom of the world . . . . . . . 

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

Nikon D5 Camera Shoots at ISO 3280000. Really?


Nikon announced their top-of-the-line DSLR recently. The 4K video equipped D5 camera claimed it can shoot at ISO 3.28 million. Of course, this is to chase (at least on paper) the remarkable Canon ME20F-SH camera that can see in the dark and shoot at over ISO 4 million plus. By the way, if you want to see how good the Nikon D5 shoots in 4K video, click on this post.

Canon is expected to announce their EOS-1D X Mark II camera next month. You can see a comparison between the Nikon and the highly anticipated Canon camera here.

See what shooting with the Nikon D5 at ISO 409600 and 3280000 look like in the photos below. Frankly, I am embarrassed to even show the images. Both photos are grainier than looking into a salt shaker. No one single number can make one piece of equipment superior to all the rest.

In my opinion, in wildlife photography, a weather sealed camera with a full frame, mid 20MP sensor that can shoot in native ISO 12800 with little noise, an advanced AF system with all cross-type 75 focus points and 12 AF points @ f/8, plus a burst rate of 12 fps is adequate. Anything more than that is expensive hype. After all, the most important criterion for a successful shoot is - luck, skill and equipment, in that order. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com





Monday, January 11, 2016

Canon EOS-1D C vs Nikon D5 4K Video Comparison


Canon EOS-1D C 4K video and still camera

Nikon announced their long awaited D5 and D500 cameras last week. They both shoot 4K videos but are they any good in producing super high quality videos?

Canon announced the EOS-1D C camera back in 2012. It is a dedicated 4K video camera packed into a EOS-1D body. It is designed for videographers who want a professional body that can also shoot still photos. EOSHD did a review comparing the EOS-1D C and Nikon D5 4K video performance and concluded the Canon is the superior camera for shooting cinematic videos.

In addition, the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera will be announced some time in Q1, 2016. You can see the comparison of the two top-of-the-line DSLR cameras from Nikon and Canon by clicking on the link above.

Wednesday, January 6, 2016

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II vs Nikon D5 Camera Comparison


Canon EOS-1D X Mark II and Nikon D5 cameras 
Nikon announced their long awaited D5 camera just in time for the CES 2016. Almost 4 years to the day when they announced the D4 back in CES 2012. Canon released their EOS-1D X Mark II camera on February 1, 2016. Below is a brief comparison of the main specs between the two cameras. The EOS-1D X camera was announced back in October 2011 and my readers know I have picked it as the best DSLR for sports and wildlife photography four years in a row.


Nikon D5 main specifications :
  • Two D5 bodies - D5 XQD and D5 CF
  • New 20.82 MP CMOS sensor
  • EXPEED 5.4K processing engine
  • 153 AF points, 99-point cross sensor, f/8 corresponding 15 points
  • Continuous shooting (continuous shooting up to 200 frames in 14bit lossless compression RAW) -12 fps in the AF / AE tracking
  • Continuous shooting speed with mirror lockup, 14 fps (AE / AF fixed)
  • 4K UHD video at 30fps
  • ISO 100-102400. Extended to 3280000
  • 3.2-inch 2.36 million dots LCD touchscreen
  • Memory card slots - dual XQD or CF slots
  • Shutter speed - 30 seconds to 1/8,000 sec
  • Finder coverage - 100% (FX), magnification: 0.72x
  • SuperSpeed - (USB 3.0 Micro-B terminal)
  • Battery - EN-EL18a
  • Weight (battery and cards) - XQD : 1405g. CF : 1415g
  • List price - $6,500 in the U.S.A.
  • Shipping starts in March, 2016




Canon EOS-1D X Mark II specifications :
  • New 20.2 MP Canon sensor 
  • ISO 100-51200. Expanded to 409600 
  • New sensor technology subdividing high and low sensitivity pixels
  • One slot for each card - CFast and CF memory slots 
  • New, 61 point AF system 
  • Dual DIGIC 6+ processors
  • 15 stops of dynamic range
  • Maximum burst rate 16 fps (14 fps w/o mirror lockup)
  • 4K UHD video at 60fps
  • 3.3 inch Super high resolution LCD
  • USB 3.0 Micro-B terminal
  • Finder coverage - 100%, magnification : 0.72x
  • GPS and Intervalometer
  • New LP-E19 battery
  • Unmatched weather sealing and ergonomics
  • List price - $5999
  • Announcement date : February 2016
  • Shipping date : April 2016 


The Nikon D5 camera specs look good at first glance. The burst rate of 12 fps and 14 fps with mirror lockup and matches the Canon EOS-1D X but the Mark II exceeds with 14 fps and 16 fps respectively. 

Shooting at ISO 3280000 is playing the marketing numbers game but suffice to say the camera should have excellent ISO performance and both cameras are evenly matched at high ISO. Being a wildlife photographer, I hardly ever use ISO higher than 6400 out in the field. The noise level is simply unacceptable beyond that. Check out the the two cameras' ISO performance comparison.  




The Nikon D5's 153 AF points is just another big number designed to grab attention. The dedicated processor for AF is good and the 15 AF points usable @ f/8 is a more meaningful number. All of the EOS-1D X Mark II's 61 AF points are accessible @ f/8.  

Offering a QXD or CF memory card version is a good idea because not many photographers shoot enough 4K video to justify buying a collection of new and expensive memory cards, but the downside is having two separate cameras. Sadly, the Nikon D5's 4K video capability is another marketing also-ran. Canon offers one slot each for CFast and CF memory card in the same camera and its 4K video capabilities are at least worth having.




The Nikon D5's list price of $6,500 is slightly over-priced. I still remember paying $8,000 for the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III back in 2008 and now the EOS-5D Mark III, with a list price of $2,499, beats the old champ's performance in so many ways. The Canon EOS-1D X Mark II's list price of $5,999 is simply a 'bargain'.

You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com. I will be getting my EOS-1D X Mark II very soon and taking it around the globe for real world wildlife photo shoots to test the camera. Keep checking back for the latest photos and review of the new body. More to come . . . . . .



Tuesday, January 5, 2016

Nikon Officially Announced the D5 Camera


Nikon D5 20MP full frame camera
Nikon finally announced the D5 camera, almost 4 years to the day the D4 was announced. The list price is $6,500. They have also announced the D500 DX camera. Now I am waiting for the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera. It should be announced next month. See how the two cameras stack up against each other. Ready for my pre-order. More to come . . . . .
















TOKYO - Nikon Corporation today announces the new D5, a FX-format flagship digital SLR camera that challenges photographers to outperform their highest standards, and set new benchmarks for speed, accuracy and image quality. Expanding the possibilities of image capture for professional photographers, the new D5 places the needs of the professional at the centre of innovation with features that enable smooth and reliable responsiveness to a wide variety of scenes and subjects.

From the refined acquisition of subjects in motion, to 4K video in UHD, the D5 creates opportunities for dauntless photographers working in demanding shooting environments to push their gear to new limits. With a next generation AF system the intelligent and versatile tracking of moving subjects enables the richness and realism of every split-second moment to be captured. The D5 boasts a wide range of ISO sensitivity up to 102400, expandable to Hi 5 (ISO 3280000 equivalent) — the most expanded sensitivity range in Nikon history — for astronomical twilight with minimum illumination, capturing details and colors beyond the limits of the human eye.

"The Nikon D5 is not just about technical excellence, but the marriage of elegant technologies. Speed and refined image quality have never converged so extensively, making it truly the camera that the industry has been waiting for," said Tadashi Nakayama, Corporate Vice President, Sector Manager of Marketing Sector, Imaging Business Unit. "The D5 represents what we are trying to do for the entire digital SLR category: Bringing technologies together to meet and anticipate the demands of professional photographers, empowering them to push the boundaries of their craft," he continues.

Outperform, Outdo, Outlast: The Pinnacle of Digital SLR Engineering for Professionals

The D5 enables the precise capture of subjects under the most demanding conditions with a new-generation 153-point AF system and a stable viewfinder image that makes tracking moving subjects easy, even during high-speed continuous shooting at approximately 12 fps*1, making the camera ideal for photojournalists capturing heart-racing sporting action and majestic animal migrations. Image quality is further enhanced by the pairing of the new Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor and the brand new EXPEED 5 image-processing engine, for the most vibrant, true-to-life colors and sumptuous details. Together with the highest standard ISO sensitivity in Nikon history, up to102400, photographers are liberated from the challenges of shooting in low-light environments whether covering evening events or shooting indoors. In another first for the FX-format range, the D5 takes movie-making to new cinematic heights with the ability to shoot in 4K UHD 2160/30p format, in-line with the increasing appetite from professionals for the production of high quality video content.

Convenient Connectivity, Simplified Workflows

In addition, new and improved features and functions, such as a high-resolution touch screen LCD monitor, faster wired networks (via built-in Ethernet connector) and wireless networks*2, and double memory card slots*3 that use the same type of media, to simplify and speed up the professional photographer's workflow, while placing the D5 in the center of the connected ecosystem for visual communication.

Designed for the Field and the Studio

The camera's Advanced Scene Recognition System, which has adopted a new 180k-pixel RGB sensor, contributes to greater AF, AE, and AWB performance. This, along with a design that consumes less power and adoption of a highly precise and durable shutter, ensures durability, and gives photographers greater control over their gear as well as image quality. The D5 also completely integrates into any professional photographer's comprehensive ecosystem of Nikon accessories. Compatibility with the new Nikon Creative Lighting System functions, radio-controlled Advanced Wireless Lighting (AWL) and unified flash control, all work to ensure the production of superlative image quality and a seamless studio workflow*4

    *1Possible in Continuous high speed (CH) release mode with shutter speeds of 1/250 s or faster
    *2When used with WT-6/A/B/C Wireless Transmitter (available separately)
    *3The camera is available in two versions, two XQD cards or two CompactFlash cards
    *4When used with Speedlight SB-5000 (available separately)

Primary features

Next-generation Intelligent AF System

The entire AF system has been completely re-vamped with adoption of the Multi-CAM 20K autofocus sensor module. This sensor module offers 153 focus points (99 of which are cross-type sensors) for broad and dense coverage of the entire image area. The center focus point has a detection range beginning at an incredible -4 EV, and detection with other focus points begins at -3 EV*, enabling autofocusing even under extremely dim lighting, and with subjects exhibiting very low contrast. In addition, equipping the camera with a dedicated AF engine capable of high-speed calculation and collaboration with the 180K-pixel RGB sensor have ensured that extremely reliable AF performance is demonstrated with a variety of scenes.

        *At ISO 100, 20 °C/68 °F

High-speed continuous shooting at approx. 12 fps with swift subject tracking

The D5 is capable of high-speed continuous shooting at approximately 12 fps*1 (w/ AF and AE tracking) in all image quality modes and at all ISO sensitivity settings. What's more, adoption of a new mirror drive mechanism achieves a more stable viewfinder image that makes continuous tracking of rapidly moving subjects easy, even with high-speed continuous shooting. Further, up to 200*2 12-bit lossless compressed RAW images can be captured with a single burst of continuous shooting.

        *1Possible in Continuous high speed (CH) release mode with shutter speeds of 1/250 s or faster
        *2When Lexar Professional 2933x XQD 2.0 memory cards are used

Exceptional ISO sensitivity

Collaboration between the new Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor and the new EXPEED 5 image-processing engine, both developed by Nikon, have enabled the highest standard ISO sensitivity in Nikon history, that of ISO 102400. High-sensitivity image quality at these never-before-seen levels achieves superior imaging quality, even within the high ISO 3200 to 12800 range often used with sports photography and the like. In addition, the image sensor's broad dynamic range enables rich and natural expression of tones for accurate reproduction of the finest details, even with extremely vivid subjects with which the expression of textures is especially difficult.

Cinematic brilliance with 4K UHD (30p) movie capability

The D5 supports movie creation in 4K, which offers a resolution higher than HD or full-HD movies, an indispensable feature for professionals involved in film-making and video content creation. High-resolution 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)/30p, 25p, 24p movies can be recorded to a memory card inserted in the camera, or, with simultaneous HDMI output, they can be displayed on an external monitor or recorded as uncompressed video to an external recorder. With support for the maximum standard sensitivity of ISO 102400, as well as even higher sensitivity settings up to Hi 5 (equivalent to ISO 3280000), even movies recorded at these high sensitivities will exhibit superior picture quality. 4K UHD time-lapse movies can also be generated in-camera.

Improved functionality and streamlined workflows

A high-resolution 3.2-in., approx. 2,359k-dot touch screen LCD monitor

Adoption of a touch screen for the display monitor enables nimble confirmation and high-speed navigation of a large number of images using a frame advance bar, and supports an efficient workflow with text input and the like. The large 3.2-inch, approximately 2,359k-dot high-resolution monitor enables extremely clear display with live view photography, even when the display is enlarged, for fast focus confirmation.

Connect through wired and wireless networks

The communications system has been significantly improved to support communications twice as fast as with the D4S, with both wired networks using the Ethernet connector built into the D5, and wireless networks when the new Wireless Transmitter WT-6/A/B/C (available separately) is used with the D5.

Versatile image storage options

Two versions of the D5 are available. Both are equipped with double memory card slots supporting a single media type; one XQD cards and one CompactFlash cards.
Accessories for high-speed connected convenience: WT-6/A/B/C Wireless Transmitter(available separately)

When connected to the D5, the high-speed transfer of image data to a computer*1 or an FTP server over a wireless network is possible. The maximum range is approximately 200 m*2. Communications are significantly faster with support for the new IEEE 802.11ac (2x2 VHT80) standard. Wireless control over the camera from a computer is also possible using Camera Control Pro 2 (available separately). A D5 to which a WT-6/A/B/C is connected may be used as a wireless LAN access point, and a direct connection to a computer or smartphone is also achievable.