Canon Announces EOS-5Ds and EOS-5Ds R New Firmware V 1.1.0

Canon EOS-5Ds and EOS-5Ds R full frame 50MP cameras

Canon EOS-5Ds and EOS-5Ds R Firmware Version 1.1.0 incorporates the following enhancement :

Support for the Wi-Fi Adapter W-E1 has been added.

When updating the firmware of your camera, please review the instructions thoroughly before you update the firmware. The firmware update takes approximately 6 minutes. Please note that the firmware for EOS 5DS R and EOS 5DS is different.

Notes :

• The firmware cannot be updated when the Wi-Fi Adapter W-E1 is inserted into the camera.
• Once the camera is updated to Version 1.1.0, it cannot be restored to a previous firmware version (Version 1.0.1).
• EOS 5DS R cameras with Firmware Version 1.1.0 require the latest version of EOS Utility and Camera Connect.
• EOS Utility Version 3.5.0 or later can be downloaded from our Web site.
• Camera Connect 1.3.10 or later can be downloaded from App Store or Google Play.
• Versions of application software that support Firmware Version 1.1.0 of the camera
• EOS Utility Version 3.5.0 or later
• Camera Connect 1.3.10 or later
• * EOS Utility is supported on the following OSes:
• Windows 10 / 8.1 / 7 SP1, Mac OS X v10.9 / 10.10 / 10.11
• * Camera Connect is supported on the following OSes:
• iOS 8.4 / 9.3, Android 4.1-4.4 / 5.0-5.1 / 6.0

I am on a Polar bear photo tour in Hudson Bay with the EOS-5Ds and EOS-1D X Mark II cameras now. You can follow my travel on Facebook and Twitter and see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Download the latest version of the Instruction Manual which contains information regarding the enhancements provided in this firmware update.

Canon 5Ds Firmware v1.1.0
Canon 5Ds R Firmware v1.1.0 

Canon EOS-80D vs Sony A6300 Camera Comparison

Canon EOS-80D vs Sony A6300 camera comparison

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

The Canon EOS-80D camera was announced in February, together with the updated EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens, equipped with new Nano USM technology. It may be the best EOS-XXD camera so far but for those who shoot primarily sports or wildlife photography, I recommend the EOS-7D Mark II camera instead.

DigitalRev compared the EOS-80D to the Sony A6300 with the video below and comes with the usual bit of levity. The eternal question, DSLR vs Mirrorless cameras, which is better?  How does Sony mirrorless bodies compare to Canon and Nikon DSLRs?

Click to compare the EOS-70D with the EOS-80D cameras. For more details on the EOS-80D camera, check out the links below from Canon Professional Network

• Step up option vs. Entry level DSLR
• The 45 point AF system
• Auto Focus @ f/8 (first time on a EOS-XXD camera)
• What is Nano USM technology?
• Download EOS-80D Camera User Manual

Sony Mirrorless Cameras vs Canon and Nikon DSLRs

On paper, Sony cameras offer a lot of bells and whistles. Their mirrorless cameras look especially 'impressive'. Once you brush aside the specs and features and dig a little deeper, you won't find too many photographers making a living using Sony cameras full time. There is a good reason for that. Just go to any major sporting events or take a wildlife photography photo shoot around the globe and you will see what I mean.

Many people don't realize committing to a camera brand is just the beginning of a major decision for those who are serious about photography. When I travel around the globe for wildlife photo shoots, a good camera company must be able to stand behind its products with responsive maintenance and repair service worldwide. This is where the major brands like Canon and Nikon stand out among the others. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon Comments On Their High End Mirrorless Camera Plans

* * *  See how Sony mirrorless cameras stack up against Canon DSLRs  * * *

Sony is the company with the most success in mirrorless cameras in the last few years, especially their a7 Series of full frame models. However, it is fanciful to think mirrorless cameras will threaten or even replace DSLR cameras any time soon but Canon is also working on their own full frame models.

Having been late a late comer to the mirrorless segment, the Canon EOS-M line has met with limited success, although it has been selling much better in Asia than other parts of the globe. At a recent interview with DPReview during the CP+ Show in Yokohama, Japan, a senior Canon executive commented on the progress of their high end mirrorless camera project. Below is an excerpt of the interview. Click here to read the rest of the conversation.


Q: Dual Pixel AF is a technology which has huge potential for mirrorless cameras. A lot of our readers are still very hopeful for future Canon enthusiast mirrorless models. Is there anything that you would like to say to them?

A: Obviously I can’t be particularly concrete when talking about our future product planning, but this is something that we are looking at. Something that is under consideration. There are some features, such as AF, which have not yet caught up with DSLRs, so given the current state of affairs it would be a little unrealistic to say that we will suddenly start offering a professional mirrorless camera. There’s still a performance gap that needs to be addressed.

Q: If we assume that at some point in the future Canon will create an enthusiast or professional mirrorless camera, what are your benchmarks?

A: This is just my personal opinion. In my view there are two key features that have to be addressed. The first is autofocus, particularly tracking of moving subjects. The other is the viewfinder. The electronic viewfinder would have to offer a certain standard. If those two functions were to match the performance of EOS DSLR camera performance, we might make the switch.

Sigma Announces Two sd Quattro Mirrorless Cameras

Sigma sd Quattro mirrorless camera

Sigma sd Quattro and sd Quattro H mirrorless cameras

KANAGAWA, JAPAN - February 23, 2016 - Sigma Corporation of America, a leading camera, DSLR lens, flash and accessories manufacturer, today announced the new high-performance, compact Sigma sd Quattro and Sigma sd Quattro H mirrorless camera systems with Foveon Quattro sensors. The Sigma sd Quattro features an APS-C sized sensor and the Sigma sd Quattro H touting a larger APS-H sized sensor for even greater image quality. Thanks to the mirrorless aspect of the cameras, both the sd Quattro and sd Quattro H are designed to take full advantage of all Sigma Global Vision lenses.

“With the introduction of these two new cameras, Sigma continues its rich history of innovation. The Foveon sensor is renowned for its imaging characteristics, and the mirrorless interchangeable format offers photographers the full line of Sigma Global Vision lenses to help realize their creative visions,” stated Mark Amir-Hamzeh, President of Sigma Corporation of America. “The sharpness of detail and nuanced color tone captured by the Foveon sensors is a key component of Sigma Global Vision.

The sd Quattro, and the sd Quattro H, with the newly announced Foveon Quattro APS-H sensor, will be greatly appreciated by photographers who demand the utmost in imaging purity, with the added benefit of portability for both in-studio and on-location photography.”

Both the sd Quattro and sd Quattro H feature similar design aspects with a compact form consistent with the dp Quattro line, making them highly portable and utilizing the Foveon Quattro sensor for exceptional imaging quality and fast processing. A magnesium alloy body makes the sd Quattro and sd Quattro H durable and rugged, while a dust- and splash-proof design makes it ideal for photographers facing harsh conditions.

In addition to the new body design, both cameras boast a list of useful advancements. These include a two-mode Autofocus detection that combines Phase Detection for focus speed and Contrast Detection for focus accuracy. The focus settings have also been enhanced with such modes as Movement Prediction, Face Detection, Free Movement, Focus Peaking and a variety of others. The new 2.3 megapixel viewfinder displays close to 100% of the field of view and when placed in “Auto” will toggle between the viewfinder when the user has the camera to their eye and then to the LCD when the user lowers the camera.

A new “Super-Fine Detail” mode brings out the full potential of the Quattro sensor by capturing seven different exposures with one shot and merging them for exceptional dynamic range (images can be extracted individually as well). Meanwhile an updated algorithm for the Auto White Balance allows for greater accuracy, even with multiple light sources.

While the sd Quattro and sd Quattro H are similar in physical design details, they stand apart when their Foveon sensors are compared. The sd Quattro utilizes the same sensor found in the dp Quattro line and produces image quality comparable to that of a 39 megapixel Bayer-pattern sensor on resolution testing.

The stacked silicon Foveon Direct Imaging sensor captures all detail information on the top 19.6 megapixel layer along with all color information for the Blue channel, while the two five-megapixel layers below capture Red and Green color information, all without the need for a low pass filter. Merged together they create incredible image quality that is comparable to medium format files. The sd Quattro H boasts a larger APS-H sensor (26.6x17.9mm) than the sd Quattro and can produce images equivalent to that of a 51-megapixel Bayer-pattern sensor camera on resolution testing.

The sensor structure is similar to that of the sd Quattro but uses a 25.5 megapixels on the top layer of the sensor that captures the detail information. Both cameras use the latest Dual TRUE III image processor and take full advantage of the Art, Contemporary and Sport line Global Vision lenses that are made for high megapixel cameras. Like all Sigma Cameras, RAW (X3F) data can processed via Sigma Photo Pro, which offers editing options, including Monochrome mode to take advantage of the incredible monochrome images the Foveon sensor captures.

Can Mirrorless Cameras Be As Good As DSLRs?

Are mirrorless cameras as good or better than DSLR models? That's the question I get most often from many photo enthusiasts when I travel around the globe on wildlife photo shoots. My readers know I am the Wildlife Ho-tographer using Canon equipment for over a quarter century. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Sony has enjoyed a very good couple of years with their various mirrorless camera models, culminating with their top-of-the-line a7R II. Last year, Leica joined the competition by introducing the SL model. Even Canon may jump in this race by announcing their own full frame mirrorless camera some time this year.

I have used mirrorless cameras. They just don't feel right in my hands. They are ergonomically challenged and the functions and features are not suitable for my use in wildlife photography. There are many people who love their mirrorless cameras. They are small, light weight and take very good photos in travel, portrait and everyday life but when the shots really matter, I know very few photographers will reach for their mirrorless camera instead of the DSLR. Take a look at the above video. It's a bit light-hearted but you will get the impression why mirrorless cameras are not used by pros in the Olympic Games, World Cup and many other important sporting events. 

Live View Comparison - Hasselblad vs Phase One

* * *  Phase One announced 100MP Medium Format camera  * * *

Capture Integration did a quick side by side, Live View comparison between the Hasselblad and Phase One 50MP Digital Backs. From the video below, it appears Phase One has the advantage. Of particular interest is Phase One's superior refresh arte, dynamic range and contrast.

My readers know after much deliberation, I have finally replaced my venerable EOS-1Ds Mark III with the full frame, 61-point AF, 50 megapixel Canon EOS-5Ds camera. The 5Ds will be used primarily for nature and travel photography but also for wildlife when the animals don't move too much. The resolution of its impressive sensor,  the ability to crop the image to 1.3x and 1.6x right in the camera are great advantages for me when it comes to wildlife photography, offsetting its main disadvantage - the slow 5 fps burst rate. I will be taking this camera on many worldwide photo shoots in 2016 and writing a comprehensive review on it in the next few months. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Market Share of Interchangeable Lens Camera Manufacturers

Sony has been on a roll lately with their sensor manufacturing business and they have a lead in full frame mirrorless cameras as well. Their Alpha 7 line of cameras received some good reviews. Leica recently announced their full frame SL mirrorless camera to join the competition. I reported in my earlier post Samsung had ceased their camera operations in both Germany and the United Kingdom. They are in the process of exiting other countries as well.

The camera sales chart above was prepared by Nikkei Asian Review. It shows the market share of interchangeable-lens camera sales in 2014. Canon had 43.3%, Nikon had 32.1%, Sony had 13%, and the remaining companies accounted for the rest. Nikon lost 2.5% share to Sony and other smaller companies compared to one year ago but Canon basically held steady.

The article below from Nikkei Asian Review analyzed how Sony changed strategy and managed to get ahead of the competition in the mirrorless space. Nikon is trying to play catch up by perhaps buying Samsung's mirrorless business while Canon is working on its own full frame mirrorless camera and may introduce it some time in 2016..


TOKYO -- The once-mighty Sony is looking for salvation in digital cameras and other imaging products. But with the electronics market maturing and its business model losing effectiveness, the Japanese company faces a tough road to recovery. 

At Foto Meyer, a camera shop in Berlin, customers are often seen carefully examining interchangeable-lens cameras and turning to shop clerks for advice. They are mostly interested in mirrorless cameras, which account for 60% of the shop's sales, according to an employee there.

Mirrorless cameras are small, light and have an interchangeable lens that does not have a mirror reflex optical viewfinder. The first model was developed by Japan's Panasonic in 2008. Sony introduced its own version in 2010. But the cameras did not fare particularly well against single-lens reflex cameras. This was especially the case in the U.S. and Europe.

But that has changed in a big way. According to one industry group estimate, Germany's mirrorless camera market is expected to grow about 150% by volume in 2015 compared with 2012, while the U.S. market is seen expanding 80%. Much of this consumer "awakening" to the allure of mirrorless cameras has been attributed to Sony.

The arrival of a Sony mirrorless model with a full-frame image sensor had a big impact on the market, said Rainer Martin, president of Fotomax, a major German camera distributor.

Existential Crisis

Full-frame cameras use a large image sensor equivalent in size  to that used for conventional 35mm cameras. High-end cameras for serious amateurs and professionals are usually full-frame. Full-frame is synonymous with high-resolution, and consumers are hungry for it, Martin said. In 2013, Sony introduced the full-frame mirrorless Alpha 7 series, completely changing the image of mirrorless cameras, which were generally seen as the lesser cousin of SLRs.

Sony began developing the Alpha 7 series in 2012 out of fear that the company "could be weeded out," Executive Vice President Shigeki Ishizuka said, looking back at that time. Ishizuka oversees Sony's imaging products and solutions business. After the company entered the mirrorless market, there was "a sense of stagnation" because the consumer transition away from traditional camera makers, such as Japan's Canon and Nikon, did not occur as smoothly as Sony had hoped, he said.

Adding to the difficulties was the rapid contraction of the digital camera market due to the growing popularity of smartphones. Sony decided to shift its focus to a different target. "We concluded that a market for professionals definitely exists," said Kimio Maki, senior general manager of the digital imaging business group.

"If we don't conquer the market for sophisticated amateurs and professionals, we will never become professionals ourselves," Ishizuka said. He decided to funnel a large chunk of the company's resources into developing full-frame cameras. "We learned that people won't buy our products unless we improve our brand," Ishizuka said.

In the two years through October, Sony's share of the full-frame camera market is estimated to have surged by about 400% in Germany and about 600% in the U.S.

The success of the Alpha 7 owes much to the shift in Sony's focus. "We had nothing to lose, which allowed us to take risks," Ishizuka said.

As a late entrant, Sony was wise to spot a niche in a market mostly dominated by established players like Canon and Nikon. Their business depended on a solid customer base built up over years, selling as many cameras as possible and making profits on high-margin interchangeable lenses. Sony found that the companies' loyalty-based approach to marketing prevented them from focusing on developing full-frame mirrorless cameras.

In its medium-term strategy for the three years from fiscal 2015, Sony prioritizes the imaging business for generating steady profits and a positive cash flow. It expects sales in the segment to hold steady at around 720 billion yen ($5.82 billion) in the current fiscal year ending in March 2016, and targets an operating profit of 58 billion yen. Though that would represent a 40 billion yen drop in sales from the 2011 level, it would be a threefold jump in operating profit. Crucially, profit margins for Sony's imaging business are higher than for its TV operations, which only recently returned to the black. The imaging business could become one of the company's leading electronics operations.

Still, Sony has a long way to go to match the likes of Canon and Nikon. U.S. market research company IDC estimates that Canon controls 43% of the global market for interchangeable-lens cameras by volume, with Nikon holding 32% and Sony just 13%. Although Sony prioritizes profitability over volume, stable growth requires a certain degree of scale.

While Sony has built up a winner with mirrorless cameras, it has found itself outmaneuvered in video cameras. GoPro of the U.S., for example, invented a wearable camera by drastically shrinking a conventional video camera, ending Sony's dominance in that corner of the market. The rise of smartphones, with their ever-improving cameras, is also a threat.

In the fast-changing market for digital cameras, companies seeking an edge need to find ways to make their products stand out. Sony must keep this in mind if it wants to make the mirrorless segment a cash cow.

Nikon Plans To Acquire Samsung's Mirrorless Business?

There is little secret Sony has a lead in full frame mirrorless cameras right now. Their a7 line of cameras received some good reviews. Leica recently announced their full frame SL mirrorless camera to join the competition. I reported in my earlier post Samsung had ceased their camera operations in both Germany and the United Kingdom. They are in the process of exiting other countries as well.

Now rumor has it Nikon may have bought Samsung's mirrorless business. Samsung has 'officially' denied this but do you really expect them to admit it before any deal is signed and sealed? If true, they are certain to bring out their own full frame mirrorless camera. Nikon is the smallest of the big three camera manufacturers. They have been very dependent on Sony for their sensors. Purchasing the Samsung operations and partnering with them will help tremendously in their mirrorless ambitions.

This should not be a surprise. In my previous reporting, Canon and other manufacturers are suffering from a decline in sales and profits. Only the strong companies will survive and Canon is already developing their own full frame mirrorless camera. Nikon is most vulnerable and must act to preserve its position in the mirrorless space. Expect some announcement from Nikon and Samsung in the Consumer Electronic Show in Las Vegas in January, 2016. Keep checking back, More to come . . . . .

Black Friday Deal - Canon EOS-5DsR $2,924

Canon EOS-5Ds and EOS-5DsR cameras

The Canon EOS-5Ds and EOS-5DsR cameras are widely available now. DxOMark recently came out with their sensor score on the camera. I have written posts comparing them to the Nikon D810, Sony a7R II and EOS-5D Mk III for those who are contemplating buying either camera or upgrading to one.

There is a highly-rated merchant on eBay selling the Canon EOS-5DsR camera for $2,924 including free shipping. The list price is $3,599. If you are interested in buying one, don't delay too much longer. Canon recently put out a list of recommended lens with this camera.

After much deliberation, I have finally replaced my venerable EOS-1Ds Mark III with this full frame, 61-point AF, 50 megapixel camera. My 5Ds will be used primarily for nature and travel photography but occasionally for wildlife that don't move too much. The resolution of its impressive sensor,  the ability to crop the image to 1.3x and 1.6x right inside the camera are great advantages for me when it comes to wildlife photography, offsetting its main disadvantage - the slow 5 fps burst rate.

You will not find a link to this eBay item because I do not accept any advertisement or commissioned link on my Blog or website. I am completely unbiased in my reporting, have no conflict of interest and do not endorse any particular company. Find this listing on eBay yourself easily.  You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Possible Specs For Canon EOS-5D Mark IV Camera

Canon EOS-5D Mark IV full frame camera?

Canon celebrated the 10th anniversary of the EOS-5D model line in September 2015. The latest models of 5Ds are the EOS-5Ds and EOS-5DsR cameras. I have posted a comparison between the EOS-5D Mk III and EOS-5Ds for those who are contemplating buying either camera or upgrading to one. The current 5D3 is an excellent camera and my pick as the best value in full frame photography.

My attention is focused on early to mid 2016 when Canon plans a second round of upgrade to their full frame camera lineup by announcing the EOS-1D X Mark II and EOS-5D Mark IV. Both cameras are expected to have new sensors and processors with unmatched dynamic range and high ISO performance. The EOS-1D X Mark II is expected to be announced first, perhaps in early Q1 and a late Q1 to early Q2, 2016 delivery date.

There is a rumor Canon may split the successor of the venerable EOS-5D Mark III camera into two, one model may be equipped with a lower megapixel sensor geared towards the high ISO crowd and another model with a high 20MP sensor for the rest. I find this rumor dumb and implausible. Canon already has a megapixel champ in the EOS-5Ds and EOS-5DsR. Very few photographers chase high ISO performance for the sake of it. The current EOS-5D Mark III already has very good ISO performance. Further splitting the popular EOS-5D line will 'confuse' buyers even more when they contemplate on upgrading from their Rebel and EOS-6D cameras.

My readers know I am a wildlife photographer. After resisting for many months, I have finally and reluctantly replaced my faithful full frame Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III camera with the EOS-5Ds. The main reason is the super high resolution 50MP sensor and the flexibility of the EOS-5Ds to take photos in the 1.3x and 1.6x crop mode. These advantages offset the disadvantage of its slow 5 fps burst rate. My main 'complaint' of the EOS-1D X is its relative modest 18 MP sensor does not offer too many pixels for post processing cropping and I am not a big fan of extenders.

The EOS-5D Mark IV may be announced Q2 of 2016, with delivery in the following quarter. Canon has invested a lot of time and money into this camera. They put on an invitation only Exposition (once every 5 years) in New York City and Paris in September, 2015 but kept the development of the camera under wrapped and did not discuss it at all during the show. The following are the best information I have right now for the upcoming EOS-5D Mark IV camera. Keep checking back for the latest development.

Possible specs for EOS-5D Mark IV :

• Expect more than incremental but not revolutionary technology
• Camera may have 4K video (more possible everyday)
• Equipped with new sensor and processor 
• May utilize column parallel sensing technology similar to Sony's EXMOR sensor
• New sensor technology subdividing high and low sensitivity pixels
• DIGIC 7 processor (likely)  DIGIC 6+ (unlikely)
• Current test cameras have mid 20 to 30 MP sensors (high 20MP most likely)
• May share the same AF system as EOS-1D X Mark II
• Improved material and ergonomics
• Burst rate of 8 to 10 fps
• May come with tilting touchscreen LCD
• Possible announcement date - Q1 - Q2, 2016.

Canon May Introduce Professional Full Frame Mirrorless Camera

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 is expected to announce the EOS-M4 mirrorless camera and at least two EF-M prime lens in Q1 to Q2 of 2016 to beef up their mirrorless product line. This will not be enough to make them a big player in this space.

Although Canon's mirrorless cameras are selling quite well in Asia and Japan, they are mostly lower end models and bring in little profits. They need to go upmarket and take a leaf from Sony and most recently, Leica. Canon is a big conservative conglomerate and operates at a glacial speed. They rarely aim to be first to bring 'revolutionary' technology to market but try to be best in their space, albeit coming from behind.

Canon is also working on a full frame mirrorless camera. Since they are already 'behind' in this segment, their next full frame mirrorless camera needs to be bold and different. I am a wildlife photographer using Canon equipment for about 25 years and have followed the company since my first EOS-1 purchase in 1989. My advice to them is bring out a top-of-the-line, full frame mirrorless camera with the EF mount as soon as possible. The new camera must come with a brand new sensor, advanced AF performance, pro build quality and ergonomics and unrivaled video performance. It will be a tall order but something well within Canon's capability and technology to manufacture. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com.

The fear that a full frame mirrorless camera may 'cannabilize' on Canon's existing full frame DSLR models is overblown. For example, all major luxury car brands have both expensive gasoline and alternative fuel powered models in their lineup. Many serious and professional photographers, including myself, will buy a high end mirrorless camera in addition to their current DSLR equipment, provided it meets the requirements.

During the Canon Expo 2015 last month, the company demonstrated some cutting edge prototypes, like the 250MP and 120MP sensors, ME20F-SH camera that shoots videos @ ISO 4000000+ and the EF 600mm f/4 DO BR lens. These eye-popping demonstrations may pay off once they come to market but deciding when to bring them to consumers seem to take too much deliberation.

In the next few months, Canon is expected to announce more EF lens, the long awaited EOS-1D X Mark II and EOS-5D Mark IV cameras. Although Canon reported less than stellar third quarter financial results recently, they are hardly unique and the company is still profitable and healthy. Management needs to make bolder decisions faster and lead their competitors for a change.   

Canon Posts Lower Q3 Profit But Lifts Full Year Forecast

* * *  Read the latest post on Canon's full frame mirrorless camera  * * *

Canon Inc. reported lower 3rd quarter profits for 2015 but raised its full year forecast due to the 'strong' US Dollar and 'weak' Japanese Yen. Going forward, the United States is expected to increase its interest rates in 2016, thereby pushing the Yen even lower and giving Canon's 2016 profit a potential further boost.

The DSLR camera segment is a matured business even though this is where Canon and many other camera makers make most of their profits. There is little Canon can do to stem the gradual loss of market share of the low end cameras to higher end smartphones. They need to concentrate on their strength and make the DSLR camera experience as enjoyable as possible for serious and professional photographers.

To that end, Canon should seriously consider introducing a prosumer to professional mirrorless camera with the same size and shape of their higher end DSLRs. The mirrorless market is here to stay and growing. The current EOS-M line is boring, brings little profit and is highly discounted.

Take a leaf from the Sony a7RII and Leica and introduce much higher end mirrorless cameras but make them look and feel more like DSLRs, like the recently announced Leica SL mirrorless camera. I and many other photographers will be interested in buying one of these cameras if Canon decides to sell one. I am a wildlife photographer and you can see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com


(Corrects dateline to Oct 27)

* Q3 operating profit falls 21 pct to 71.8 bln yen

* Steep fall had been flagged by Nikkei business daily

* Investments in new businesses also weighed on profit

* Full-year earnings forecast lifted on weaker yen

By Sophie Knight

TOKYO, Oct 27 (Reuters) - Japan's Canon Inc said quarterly operating profit fell by a fifth as demand for digital cameras slumped and it spent more on developing new businesses, but it nudged up its full-year earnings estimates on a sharply weaker yen.

The consumer shift to smartphones for casual photo taking has pummelled demand for compact cameras, while the growing popularity of lighter mirrorless cameras has taken away market share from higher margin single-lens reflex cameras.


Operating profit for the July-September quarter came in at 71.8 billion yen ($665 million), not far off figures flagged by the Nikkei business daily earlier this month.

Investments to boost businesses such as video surveillance and semiconductor steppers also helped to outweigh a 11.4 billion yen contribution from a weaker yen, a company spokesman said.

Revenue fell 4.5 percent to 872.2 billion yen.

The export-reliant company lifted its operating profit forecast but it acknowledged that but for the weaker yen, it would have revised down.

It now expects 370 billion yen for the year to end December, up from a prior prediction of 365 billion yen and a 9.7 percent increase on the previous year.

While a softer yen boosts earnings for export-oriented companies, the Japanese currency's rapid descent against the greenback - around 8 percent over the July-September period - has driven up import costs and prompted complaints from Japan Inc that yen weakness has gone far enough.

"It's difficult to give an ideal level but if it stopped at its current level it wouldn't be a bad thing," said Chief Financial Officer Toshizo Tanaka.

Japan's currency is trading at around 108 yen to the dollar after having weakened to as low as 110 yen at the beginning of this month. A Reuters Corporate Survey showed in September that only one quarter of Japanese firms preferred an exchange rate of 105 yen or weaker.

Canon's shares closed up 0.8 percent on Monday ahead of results. (1 US dollar = 107.9600 Japanese yen) (Reporting by Sophie Knight; Editing by Edwina Gibbs)

Sony a7R II vs Canon EOS-5DsR Camera Comparison

Sony a7R II vs Canon EOS-5DsR camera comparison

* * *  Canon EOS-5Ds for $2,799 including shipping  * * *

* * *  Read the other comparison between the two cameras  * * *

* * *  Read the latest post on Canon's full frame mirrorless camera  * * *

My readers know, I have been a Canon user for over 25 years. Through the decades, I have used almost all of Canon's cropped and full frame, film and digital cameras, plus the EF and EF-S lenses. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

The recently released Canon EOS-5Ds and EOS-5DsR cameras are descendants of the original EOS-5D, released in 2005. It was the first 'affordable' full frame digital camera and the official list price was roughly the same as the current list price of the EOS-5Ds. Considering inflation and the monumental advancement in technology packed into the new camera, I must say it is a very good deal, indeed.

The Sony a7R II camera was released in June 2015. The following comparison covers the two cameras' major features, and assumes the reader is already familiar with the functionality and capabilities of DSLR and mirrorless cameras. It is intended to help those trying to decide whether to upgrade or keep their present Canon or Sony bodies.

EOS-5Ds and EOS-5DsR DSLR cameras :

• 50.6 MP full frame sensor
• Powered by dual DIGIC 6 processors
• Optical low pass filter on EOS-5Ds. Self cancelling on EOS-5DsR
• 1.3x (30.5MP) plus 1.6x (19.6MP) with 1:1 ratio crop mode 
• 3.2 inch, 1040K dot LCD screen.
• Dual card slots, one CF, one SD
• Burst rate 5 fps. Burst depth, up to 510 JPEG and 14 RAW files
• ISO range from 100 - 6400, 50 - 12800 with expansion
• 61-point High Density Reticular AF, 41 cross type points, 5 double cross type 
• 150,000 pixel RGB+IR metering sensor, 252 zone
• Custom Functions - 16, USB 3.0
• Number of cross-points depends on the speed of the lens used.
• 59 ms. shutter lag, 150,000 cycle shutter and .71x viewfinder.
• DxOMark overall sensor score - 87
• Low light ISO - 2381 ISO

Sony a7R II mirrorless camera :

• 42.2MP BSI Full-frame CMOS sensor
• ISO 50-102400 expanded
• 5 axis built in IS
• 399 Phase Detection AF system
• Max 5 fps shooting
• 3.0 inch 1229K dot LCD screen
• Shoots video in 4K
• Shutter rated at 500,000
• Low light ISO - 3434 (no surprise here)
• WiFi / NFC
• 2.36m dot Electronic Viewfinder
• Battery life 340 shots
• SD card slot and Memory Stick
• Mic and Headphone sockets

The first thing that stands out is the Canon EOS-5Ds is a 'bigger and heavier' camera. That in itself means little since both cameras can produce excellent photos that can be printed in very large size. If one needs to print super large sized photos, the EOS-5Ds has a slight edge.

The Sony a7R II does have the advantage over the Canon EOS-5Ds, with an expanded ISO of 102400 vs 6400. Both cameras shoot at a maximum of 5 fps and there are of course, differences with proprietary processors, video speed, AF system, etc. but suffice to say, they are differences without much distinction. The final stand out point is the Canon EOS-5Ds has better battery management capability and claims to shoot 700 vs Sony's 340 shots on a fully charged battery.  

In conclusion, both cameras are great for full frame photography, capable of producing sharp, extremely huge prints. The Canon EOS-5Ds is a full frame DSLR while the Sony a7R II has a full frame mirrorless design. The Sony a7R II is superior to the older a7R in all aspects.

More importantly, to me, the difference between a DSLR and mirrorless camera's design is the real issue. The EOS-5Ds (in particular the EOS-1D X) feels like a real camera with excellent grip and ergonomics. It is designed as a more rugged body and goes with a full complement of EF lens, from 8mm to 1200mm. The Sony is designed as a 'lighter, compact all-in-one package' stuffed with 'fluffy' technology and works with a smaller complement of lens, although one can buy an adapter and use it with some Canon's EF lens.

For the photographer who prefers to travel light and take mostly landscape/nature/portrait/wedding photos and videos, the Sony a7II R is a good choice. As a wildlife photographer, neither the Canon EOS-5Ds nor the Sony a7R II camera is a good alternative for wildlife photography, in my opinion. I am waiting for the EOS-1D X Mk II and EOS-5D Mk IV to debut later this year or early next year for my next DSLR purchase.

Whether one wants to upgrade from their present camera depends entirely on whether one needs a camera capable of producing mega prints. For Canon users thinking of upgrading from the EOS-5D Mk III to the EOS-5Ds, read my comparison here. For a comparison between the Nikon D810 and the Canon EOS-5Ds, read this post. 

Canon EOS-5DsR and Leica SL Size Comparison

Canon EOS-5DsR and Leica SL size comparison

* * *  I'm off on a Polar Bear Photo Tour. Will connect if possible  * * *

* * *  Read the latest post on Canon's full frame mirrorless camera  * * *

Leica announced the 24MP SL mirrorless camera recently at a whopping price of $7,500, body only. My readers know I am not a fan of the current mirrorless camera designs. I can find no compelling reason to own one. Among the reasons, all the mirrorless cameras do not feel right in my hands, including the recently announced, 'highly acclaimed' Sony a7R II. They are too small and the ergonomics are all wrong for me.

Now Leica has decided to do something different, by making the new SL similar in shape to a full sized DSLR, like the Canon EOS-5DsR, replete with the hand grip on the right side of the camera. In the future, if Canon decides to introduce a mirrorless camera for professional photographers and retain a similar size and shape to their present DSLR cameras, I might take a second look.

However, how many photographers will seriously forego the soon-to-be-released EOS-1D X Mark II and EOS-5D Mark IV cameras in favor of the Leica SL?  Did Leica not learn a lesson from Zeiss? Are Zeiss lens really worth that much more than say, Sigma Art lens? Is the recently announced, 'lower priced' Milvus line of lens going to help Zeiss beat back the challenge from Sigma and others?

Canon EOS-5Ds $2,649 / EOS-5DsR $3,049 Including Shipping

Canon EOS-5Ds and EOS-5DsR full frame cameras

The Canon EOS-5Ds and EOS-5DsR cameras are widely available now. DxOMark recently came out with their sensor score on the camera. I have written posts comparing them to the Nikon D810, Sony a7R II and EOS-5D Mk III for those who are contemplating buying either camera or upgrading to one.

There is a top-rated merchant on eBay selling the Canon EOS-5Ds camera for $2,649 and EOS-5DsR for $3,049 including free shipping. The list price is $3,699 and $3,899 respectively. If you are interested in buying one, don't delay too much longer. Canon recently put out a list of recommended lens with this camera. Neither cameras is a good choice for wildlife photography, in my opinion. I am waiting for the EOS-1D X Mk II and EOS-5D Mk IV to debut later this year or early next year for my next DSLR purchase.

You will not find a link to these eBay items because I do not accept any advertisement or commissioned link on my Blog or website. I am completely unbiased in my recommendation and have no conflict of interest. You can find the listings on eBay easily yourself. Visit MichaelDanielHo.com to see my wildlife photography works.

Canon EOS-5Ds Camera - $2799 With Shipping

Canon EOS-5Ds and EOS-5Ds R cameras

* * *  Canon EOS-5Ds for $2,649 and EOS-5DsR for $3,149  * * *

The Canon EOS-5Ds and EOS-5DsR cameras are available everywhere now. DxOMark recently came out with their sensor score on the camera. I have written posts comparing them to the Nikon D810, Sony a7R II and EOS-5D Mk III for those who are contemplating buying either camera or upgrading to one.

There is a top-rated merchant on eBay selling the Canon EOS-5Ds camera for $2,799 including free shipping. The list price is $3,699 so if you are interested in buying one, don't delay too much longer. Canon recently put out a list of recommended lens with this camera.

You will not find a link to this eBay item because I do not accept any advertisement or commissioned link on my Blog or website. I am completely unbiased in my recommendation and have no conflict of interest. You can find the listing on eBay easily yourself. Visit MichaelDanielHo.com to see my wildlife photography works.

Canon EOS-5Ds vs Sony a7R II Comparison

Canon EOS-5DsR DSLR and Sony a7R II mirrorless cameras

* * *  Canon EOS-5Ds for $2,799 including shipping  * * *

* * *  Read the other comparison between the two cameras  * * *

* * *  Read the latest post on Canon's full frame mirrorless camera  * * *

My readers know, I have been a Canon user for about 25 years. Through the decades, I have used almost all of Canon's cropped and full frame, film and digital cameras, plus the EF and EF-S lenses. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

The recently released Canon EOS-5Ds and EOS-5DsR cameras are descendants of the original EOS-5D, released in 2005. It was the first 'affordable' full frame digital camera and the official list price was roughly the same as the current list price of the EOS-5Ds. Considering inflation and the monumental advancement in technology packed into the new camera, I must say it is a very good deal, indeed.

The Sony a7R II camera was released in June 2015. The following comparison covers the two cameras' major features, and assumes the reader is already familiar with the functionality and capabilities of DSLR and mirrorless cameras. It is intended to help those trying to decide whether to upgrade or keep their present Canon or Sony bodies.


EOS-5Ds and EOS-5DsR DSLR cameras :

• 50.6 MP full frame sensor
• Powered by dual DIGIC 6 processors
• Optical low pass filter on EOS-5Ds. Self cancelling on EOS-5DsR
• 1.3x (30.5MP) plus 1.6x (19.6MP) with 1:1 ratio crop mode 
• 3.2 inch, 1040K dot LCD screen.
• Dual card slots, one CF, one SD
• Burst rate 5 fps. Burst depth, up to 510 JPEG and 14 RAW files
• ISO range from 100 - 6400, 50 - 12800 with expansion
• 61-point High Density Reticular AF, 41 cross type points, 5 double cross type 
• 150,000 pixel RGB+IR metering sensor, 252 zone
• Custom Functions - 16, USB 3.0
• Number of cross-points depends on the speed of the lens used.
• 59 ms. shutter lag, 150,000 cycle shutter and .71x viewfinder.
• DxOMark overall sensor score - 87
• Low light ISO - 2381 ISO

Sony a7R II mirrorless camera :

• 42.2MP BSI Full-frame CMOS sensor
• ISO 50-102400 expanded
• 5 axis built in IS
• 399 Phase Detection AF system
• Max 5 fps shooting
• 3.0 inch 1229K dot LCD screen
• Shoots video in 4K
• Shutter rated at 500,000
• Low light ISO - 3434 (no surprise here)
• WiFi / NFC
• 2.36m dot Electronic Viewfinder
• Battery life 340 shots
• SD card slot and Memory Stick
• Mic and Headphone sockets

The first thing that stands out is the Canon EOS-5Ds is a 'bigger and heavier' camera. That in itself means little since both cameras can produce excellent photos that can be printed in very large size. If one needs to print super large sized photos, the EOS-5Ds has a slight edge.

The Sony a7R II does have the advantage over the Canon EOS-5Ds, with an expanded ISO of 102400 vs 6400. Both cameras shoot at a maximum of 5 fps and there are of course, differences with proprietary processors, video speed, AF system, etc. but suffice to say, they are differences without much distinction. The final stand out point is the Canon EOS-5Ds has better battery management capability and claims to shoot 700 vs Sony's 340 shots on a fully charged battery.  

In conclusion, both cameras are great for full frame photography, capable of producing sharp, extremely huge prints. The Canon EOS-5Ds is a full frame DSLR while the Sony a7R II has a full frame mirrorless design. The Sony a7R II is superior to the older a7R in all aspects.

More importantly, to me, the difference between a DSLR and mirrorless camera's design is the real issue. The EOS-5Ds (in particular the EOS-1D X) feels like a real camera with excellent grip and ergonomics. It is designed as a more rugged body and goes with a full complement of EF lens, from 8mm to 1200mm. The Sony is designed as a 'lighter, compact all-in-one package' stuffed with 'fluffy' technology and works with a smaller complement of lens, although one can buy an adapter and use it with some Canon's EF lens.

For the photographer who prefers to travel light and take mostly landscape/nature/portrait photos and videos, the Sony a7II R is a good choice. As a wildlife photographer, neither the Canon EOS-5Ds nor the Sony a7R II camera is a good alternative for wildlife photography, in my opinion. I am waiting for the EOS-1D X Mk II and EOS-5D Mk IV to debut later this year or early next year for my next DSLR purchase.

Whether one wants to upgrade from their present camera depends entirely on whether one needs a camera capable of producing mega prints. For Canon users thinking of upgrading from the EOS-5D Mk III to the EOS-5Ds, read my comparison here. For a comparison between the Nikon D810 and the Canon EOS-5Ds, read this post.