Release Issued by Canon:
Outstanding speed and resolution for the discerning photographer: The EOS
50D
United Kingdom / Republic of Ireland, 26 August 2008
: Canon today
strengthens its EOS range with the addition of a powerful new digital SLR:
the EOS 50D. With a 15.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor, 6.3 frames per second
shooting and Canon’s latest DIGIC 4 image processor, the EOS 50D delivers
unparalleled speed and resolution at a price point that is unique in
today’s market.
Outstanding, clean images
A newly designed 15.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor delivers ultra-detailed,
low-noise images – ideal for large-scale reproduction or creative cropping.
New manufacturing processes, plus redesigned photo diodes and microlenses,
extend the light gathering capabilities of the sensor – allowing more
pixels to be fitted on the CMOS sensor without compromising image quality.
These changes ensure improved high ISO performance and low noise.
High-speed, low light shooting is enabled by ISO levels of 3200, expandable
to an ultra-sensitive 12800.
The EOS Integrated Cleaning System – including the improved Self Cleaning
Sensor Unit with a new fluorine coating – increases protection of image
quality by helping to reduce, repel and remove unwanted dust from the
sensor. Stubborn particles can be removed automatically in post-production
with Dust Delete Data and Canon’s included Digital Photo Professional
software.
Rapid-fire performance
Canon’s new DIGIC 4 processor is fast enough to allow up to 6.3fps
continuous shooting, in bursts of up to 90 JPEGs with a UDMA card. Used
with Canon’s wide area AF system, which locks onto subjects with 9
individual cross type sensors, stunning action sequences can be captured –
even in low-light conditions. This makes the EOS 50D particularly suited to
sports and wildlife shooting.
DIGIC 4 works with the CMOS sensor to deliver 14-bit image processing, for
smooth gradation and natural-looking colours – as well as ensuring
ultra-fast startup times and near-instant image review after shooting.
See everything
A new 3.0” Clear View VGA LCD provides extra-large and wide angle-of-view
image review, with plenty of clarity for accurate focus checks in playback.
By switching to Live View mode – which displays a real-time image on the
LCD – photographers can enjoy simplified shooting from awkward angles, or
connect to a PC for remote shooting. Live Mode now offers three ways to
auto focus: Quick AF, Live AF, and new Face Detection Live AF, which
optimizes focus based on faces detected in the frame – for fast,
spontaneous portraiture.
Control and ease
The famously intuitive EOS menu system includes a new Quick Control screen,
for instant access to the most commonly-changed settings. A new Creative
Auto mode offers automatic focus and exposure – while still allowing
creative ‘tweaks’ to settings such as background sharpness.
“For advanced amateurs and semi-professionals – or professionals looking
for a powerful backup model – the EOS 50D stands alone,” said Mogens
Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging, Europe. “No other camera in this
price bracket offers a comparable combination of speed and image quality.”
Features at a glance:
15.1 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
6.3fps continuous shooting, max. burst 90 JPEGs with UDMA card
DIGIC 4 processor
ISO 100-3200, expandable to 12800
9-point wide area AF
3.0” Clear View VGA LCD with Live View mode & Face Detection Live AF
Magnesium alloy body, with environmental protection
EOS Integrated Cleaning System
HDMI connection for high quality viewing and playback on a High
Definition TV
Full compatibility with Canon EF and EF-S lenses and EX-series
Speedlites
Pricing & Availability:
The EOS 50D (body only) is available from end of September 2008 priced at
£1199.99 / €1599.99 RRP inc. VAT.
The EOS 50D EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM kit is available from end of
September 2008 priced at £1499.99 / €1949.99 RRP inc. VAT.
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