Canon EOS 5D Mark II

February 2009. The Canon EOS 5D Mark II is the first full-frame digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera to provide a movie mode, but reviews also give the Canon EOS 5D Mark II top marks for its performance as a still camera. Though the high-definition movie mode earns some criticism, reviewers find it possible to shoot high-quality video with many more aesthetic options than a regular camcorder provides, such as being able to adjust exposure or use a fisheye lens for special effects. Mark Goldstein of PhotographyBlog.com complains that the camera lacks a dedicated video mode button and that autofocus doesn't work well in this mode. A few reviewers note that it's difficult to hold the large Canon EOS 5D Mark II steady while shooting movies, so a tripod is highly recommended. The camera has a self-cleaning sensor plus a high-resolution LCD screen with live-view options. The only limitation is the maximum speed of 3.9 frames per second (fps) for still shots. If action shots are your priority, consider the 9-fps Nikon D3 (*est. $4,350) though it lacks movie mode.

We found the most detailed hands-on reviews of the Canon EOS 5D Mark II at Amateur Photographer (a U.K. publication), Ken Rockwell's site and Mark Goldstein's PhotographyBlog.com. Other useful reviews focus more on just one aspect of the camera. The review at DxOMark.com reports on highly technical lab tests of the sensor. For more information on the camera's video capabilities, we turn to reviews at Luminous Landscape, VincentLaForet.com and The Digital Journalist.