Canon today overhauled its starter DSLR lineup by introducing the T3i and T3, and rebranded its ELPH line to reflect expanded capabilites. Let’s start with the Rebels.
New starter DSLRs: Canon Rebel T3i and T3
The Rebel T3i is the new flagship of Canon’s starter DSLR line. The first Rebel to offer Scene Intelligent Auto (the “Green Mode” icon has been changed to an “A+), it analyzes scene content to determine perfect exposures as well as white balance settings, color intensity, the most appropriate ISO and other settings, automatically. Canon claims the T3i can shoot up to 34 consecutive full-resolution JPEGs or 11 RAW images in a row at up to 3.7fps.
Key features include:
- 18MP sensor
- 3-inch, flip-out, 1,040k pixel resolution LCD screen
- Creative Filters (Soft focus, Grainy B&W, Toy Camera, Miniature Effect)
- 1080p HD video in 24, 25 or 30p frame rates.
- 1:1, 4:3, 16:9 and custom aspect ratios possible
- Video Snapshot Mode records and combines short video clips in-camera
- 9-point AF system
- 63-Zone dual-layer metering system
- ISO range 100-6400
- Integrated Speedlight Transmitter for multi-flash shooting
- Takes SD, SDHC and SDXC cards
The Canon EOS Rebel T3i will be available starting in March, body only for $799.99, or in kits with the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II or 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens at $899.99 or $1099, respectively.
Canon has clearly been watching the competition, and the low-cost T3 is the result. A camera that has instructional screens that Canon calls the Feature Guide to walk new users through its functions, the T3 is built around a 12MP sensor and is claimed to produce low noise at higher resolution settings. Capable of 720p HD video capture and with an ISO range of 100-6400, the T3 is designed for first-time DSLR users and will cost $599.99 with the new Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 II zoom lens. It will be available by the end of March.
Two new Speedlite flashes
Canon also announced a pair of new Speedlite flash units. The 320EX is a lightweight unit that is well-matched for the Rebel T3i and includes an LED continuous light unit so it can provide full-time illumination for short distances when shooting videos on a DSLR or PowerShot compact camera. The 270 EX II replaces the 270EX, and is a compact flash that takes two AA batteries and has a head that can pivot up to 90 degrees. Both units have E-TTL wireless autoflash control. The 320EX will be available for around $250 and the 270EX II will cost around $170. Both models will be available in April.
For more information about Canon Rebels and speedlights, read the Canon press release.
New lenses for amateurs and well-heeled pros
Canon today also announced three new lenses:
EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 II, a new standard kit lens that uses new IS algorithms for better Image Stabilization.
On the pro side, Canon unveiled EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM (above) and 600mm f/4L IS II USM (below) telephoto lenses, which are the new generation of Canon’s long tele lenses. Both replace previous version and feature a third Image Stabilization mode that makes sure stabilization doesn’t occur until the shutter release is pressed, making it easier to view and track a subject before the shot. The lenses also have a PF (Power Focus) mode that allows videographers to use manual rack focus. Both lenses are lighter than their predecessors (18-27 percent lighter) but are built more durably for professional use in tough shooting situations. They are also compatible with Canon’s Type III EF telephoto extenders. The EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM will be available in May for around $9,500, while the 600mm f/4L IS II USM is expected in June for $12,000.
For more about Canon’s new supertele lenses, read the Canon press release.
New PowerShot Digital Cameras
Canon has overhauled its ELPH line of compact digital cameras. The new ELPHs will also have HS added to their names to reflect the inclusion of the HS System, a more advanced processing system, in each camera that Canon claims will deliver better quality images at high speeds with greater detail and color fidelity.
PowerShot SX230 HS: Built-in GPS lets users of this 12MP CMOS-sensor-based camera add latitude, longitude and altitude to the image’s EXIF data. Other features include a 14x optical zoom lens that starts at 28mm (35mm equivalent) and a 3-inch LCD monitor. It will be available in March for $350.
Elph 500 HS: This stylish compact is operated via a 3.2-inch LCD touchscreen monitor. It has a bright f/2 lens that starts at 24mm (35mm equivalent), and combined with the 12MP CMOS monitor and optical image stabilization, this camera is well-suited for low-light shooting. Available in March for $300.
Elph 300 HS: Another 12MP camera, the ultra-thin Elph 300 HS features a 5x optical zoom that starts at 24mm, and has a 2.7-inch LCD monitor. Look for it in March for $250.
Elph 100 HS: Canon’s new budget camera, the 100HS has a 4x optical zoom lens that starts at 28mm, a 3-inch LCD monitor, and a 12MP CMOS sensor. Available in March for under $200.
For more information about Canon’s latest compact cameras, read the Canon press release.
