The Canon EOS 5D MkII packs in an impressive spec with its 21.1Mp chip and the option to achieve prints just a bit smaller than A2 without interpolation. The ISO coverage on the Canon EOS 5D MKII is impressive, with a standard range of ISO 100-6400, and this can be expanded to ISO 25,600 equivalent (H2). The 5D MkII employs Canon’s latest DIGIC 4 image processor, and though there’s some large files to push through, it only offers a conservative 3.9 frames per second (fps). The same can be said for the 9-point AF system that was first seen on the original 5D, with a single cross-type (sensitive both horizontally and vertically) AF point in the centre, with the other points grouped in a diamond formation, along with an additional 6 AF assist points. There’s a decent 3in screen, though, with a 920k dot resolution. Along with Live View, the big news is the ability to capture full HD video, with a maximum resolution of 1920x1080 (16:9) at 30fps. There’s an on-body microphone, but for serious work there’s an external mic socket, too.
Lens compatibilityIf you’ve built up a collection of digital-only EF-S lenses, they won’t physically fit on the Canon 5D MkII due to the extra flange on the mounts, so that’s something to consider. Otherwise, the build is solid, with a magnesium-alloy chassis including moisture and dust protection, and a decent rubberised grip.
The Canon 5D MkII’s 9 AF points are grouped pretty tightly together in the middle of the viewfinder, so there will be times when you have to focus and then recompose. Though not offering the widest of AF options, AF is precise and quick, with point selection controlled via the scroll wheel at the rear.
Live View is easy to access thanks to the Direct Print button taking on a dual role, with two modes to choose from – Quick Mode that uses the 9 AF points and Live Mode, which uses contrast-detect AF. Video recording is also a breeze; it’s started and stopped by hitting the Set button in the middle of the scroll wheel and videos are stored in a separate folder on your card.
Canon users will feel right at home with the 5D MkII, as it offers a hassle-free transition from other EOS models. However, though the menu system has been updated, it still feels a tad clunky, and with some buttons assigned dual functionality it can result in awkward finger positioning to change settings – the ISO button is a case in point.
21.1Mp full-frame sensor www.canon.co.ukDigital Photo Silver Award
