My brand new Canon EOS-1D Mark III camera is finally here.  Since getting into photography, I started with the Canon Rebel XTi (400D).  I then upgraded to the Canon 40D.  I also wanted to get a full frame sensor DSLR like the 5D, but opted against the 2.5+ year old camera.  So into the picture comes the Canon 1D Mark III DSLR which was launched in 2007.

The first thing I was presented with was the higher class box design.  It is a nice black box with distinct white lettered Canon logo and Mark III designation along with a nice silhouette of the camera.  The camera itself boasts a 10.1MP CMOS sensor with dual Digic III processors.  The Mark III sports a 45 point AF system broken down into 19 cross-type and 26 assist points.  The battery life on the Mark III is rated at 1800-2200 photos.  The 10fps is a big benefit is to sports photographers who need to get that perfect shot.  The complete spec sheet can be found on Canon’s website.

Having come from the “prosumer” 40D, I was expecting to be able to jump right into taking pictures.  I was a bit overwhelmed at first.  The first thing I noticed was that the camera starts up in “P” or Program mode.  My first challenge was to get the camera off of “P” and into Av or Aperture Priority.  Unlike the 40D which uses the dial knob to change modes, the 1D Series opts for a button for everything approach.  So basically it is a matter or pressing mode and using the dial to go to the appropriate setting.

The most noticeable things about the 1D Mark III in terms of ergonomics are weight and size.  The Mark III weighs in at 2.5lbs while the 40D only weights 1.6lbs.  The Mark III weighs is a bit heavier than the 40D, but holds itself very well due to the body design.  It’s size also helps manage longer telephoto lenses better.  The bottom of the camera helps to support hand holding for longer periods of time along with keeping the image steady without using a monopod or tripod.

Those users that like to shoot in portrait layout, will also love the shutter release button, AF-ON, and AF point selections that are included on the camera.  While this could also be achieved on the 40D, it required the owner to spend another $170+ on the external battery grip.  The bottom controls can be turned on/off to be used whenever they are needed.  The on/off helps in preventing extra battery drain when the portrait controls are not in use.

Stay tuned for my Canon 1D Mark III review part 2.

Tags: 1D, 1D Mark III, Canon, DSLR, EOS-1D, Mark III

This entry was posted on Saturday, March 15th, 2008 at 3:16 pm and is filed under Photography. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.