Underground Photographer

This “big” Canon may seem modest compared with its cousins worth thousands of euros, but it really is good. It is a basic DSLR camera that flirts with simplicity, friendliness and sympathy. It takes novices by the hand and teaches them the basics. There are no design imbalances. To try to enter the mind of everyone and explore what really is “serious” to them, sounds difficult. At this point, the importance of the “average” comes in. Simplicity, good ergonomics and smooth operation. The implementation of all these in the form of an entry level DSLR is not the easiest thing in the world.

In each case the design is the primary reason for everything. Maybe before in the era of Canon 350D you were pleasantly surprised with minimal dimensions, which made many compact cameras feel like being in disadvantage because of the development, but we did get used to it. Let us not forget that the subsequent entry level DSLR models, successful Canon 400D and 450D (which is still produced), belong to the same design family as well. The “small” reflex system is therefore desirable to the photographers who seek design, security, backup, etc. or you are a fan of “light travel” or a woman preferring the smallest cameras.

First impressions

The moment when fingers come in contact with the new camera is crucial. The sense of touch, combined with appearance, make the first impression. Is it slippery? No. The small size means a bad grip? Also not. An LCD information screen is on the top, but never mind. Anyway, no manufacturer has put such screens on models in this category, with such a small body size. The rotary menu contains symbols for functions that make creative photography privilege of most, but also to the delight of amateurs they have created icons for sub scenes. And for the photos that are always problematic when the sun fades, the button for the ISO adjustment is here, in a prominent position – it is not even an option somewhere in the menus. Each new model in development is long-awaited. Is that what you expected – a 400D with increased resolution in megapixels? The EOS 1000D has its own personality. The key button in the back has only six by four options, but they can control almost everything. Overall, the new owner remains satisfied how many options (screen menu with fast browsing, picture styles, “LiveView”) you get by paying so little, less than a half of what it would cost 2-3 years before.

Technology

The heart of the Canon EOS 1000D is the CMOS central sensor with resolution of 10.1 megapixels, which is more than sufficient for any recreational or more serious use. The DIGIC III processor has a direct start-up, quick response and excellent image quality. The TFT screen size (2.5 inch) is the part where the cost savings were made, but it is the only way the price can be kept low. However, its 230.000 pixels offer excellent visibility, combined with the view angle of 170°. In the “economic class” camera it is really not usual to see the “LiveView” function. More popular options even include two additional functions: Quick AF – instant auto focus of the mirror including the sensor – and Live AF, with information based on the contrast, providing both the composition and full histogram, and it can even be controlled remotely! Always useful function is also the sensor self-cleaning system, coated in low pass filter, preventing the particles from getting inside. If the dust persists you can remove it with ultrasonic vibrations, and for disappearance of dust traces you can use “Dust Delete Data” software.

The photographer’s opinion

No more excuses. The new generation of DSLR cameras have the momentum and the opportunities which make them a driving force in the market. They are very good in absolute terms. For the excellent price/performance ratio the Canon EOS 1000D is able to set aside any prejudice on the potential “small size” of the camera, exhausting your own creative limits. The EOS 1000D has won attention in the eternal dilemma “DSLR and digital compact”, and encourages many people to make their first step to a more serious photography.

Features

10.1 MP CMOS sensor
Up to 3fps
7-point wide-area AF
Self-Cleaning Image Sensor
2.5” LCD with Live View mode
DIGIC III processor
SD/SDHC card slot
Picture Styles processing
Compact and lightweight
Compatible with EF/EF-S lenses and EX Speedlites