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Review Summary
2015-09-03T21:00:00
Best most stable platform around. Best for shooting in size weather. Is great to use along side of my Sony a77ii and a99. 2 best cameras systems for shooting in size and weight the ingredients weather and location.
MARC B.
2015-09-02T21:00:00
One of the most stable cameras build. Sorry they discontinued it. I shoot in Alaska and inclement weathers. One of the few companies other than Sony that builds cameras to handle the cild and better than others.
MARC B.
2015-09-01T21:00:00
Best Camera for stability. Consistent and smooth with all Canon and Tamron lenses. Adorama is my camera out fitters.
MARC B.
2015-09-01T21:00:00
I bought this to evaluate the difference between full fframe and apc format. the ture different is not as great as I expected.
GEORGE G.
2015-08-17T21:00:00
Bought the 5D classic as an introduction to full frame and to supplement my 70d. I love this camera. It lacks a lot of the features of the newer versions, but it produces amazing images nonetheless. I was worried about buying used, but Adorama sent me an 'E' rated 5D that looks almost new. Had to send it to Canon to get the mirror reattached after only a couple of months, but they did it for free as this is a known issue with the 5D. They had it just one week.
WADE S.
2014-05-29T21:00:00
Full Frame at a fraction of current models price. Used but in perfect condition, works like a dream. Pixel count is low compared to current models, but still excellent image quality. If you want to make maximum used of your old ultra wide lenses, this is your pick. Heavier and bigger than I expected.
JOHN W.
2014-05-12T21:00:00
Great camera for back up.
RAMON G.
2013-09-16T21:00:00
I knew I had to upgrade to a better camera when my Rebel stopped shooting in the middle of a newly married couple's first kiss. I can't afford much, but this was a great compromise. It's got some noise in it at higher ISO settings, but for the most part, it's really a wonderful camera. The last wedding I did was so much easier. I hope to upgrade to Mark II or III at some point, but for now, this is perfect. I had to buy all new batteries and CF cards, though. So that is something else to consider. It doesn't take an SD card and the CF cards are more expensive and harder to find.
Kyria A.
2013-01-28T19:00:00
I love this camera, it keeps me focused on taking the shot instead of dealing with millions of settings. The only con that I can mention is the ISO, it only goes to ISO1600, however this problem can be solved with prime lenses ,and using my flash, I bought the camera used, Adorama, gave me a 6 month warranty on the camera.
ed
2012-09-11T21:00:00
This camera may not handle low light situations as well as the Mark II or Mark III, but it definitely holds its own. I find the Canon 5D to be very intuitive and capable as a solid back up for my wedding photography business.
ANITA M.
2012-07-30T21:00:00
I photograph babies, kids, seniors and families. I purchased this as an upgrade from my 30D. The differences are amazing! The difference in details is night and day. I also like that it does not have video capability. It was a simple transition from my 30D.
Sara K.
2012-05-27T21:00:00
I've got to be one of the last remaining people to upgrade from my 35mm SLR, but I finally did. I've had various point-and-shoot digital cameras over the years, but had held off on purchasing a nice DSLR until now. The Canon 5D is a solid performer. I wanted a well built full-frame digital camera without breaking the bank, and the Canon 5D is exactly what I was looking for. Pictures are razor-sharp. The button layout is similar to Canon's other SLR offerings and took no time at all to learn. The only thing to note is that the 9-point autofocus is somewhat limiting and is one of the few reminders that this is a 2005-vintage camera. The AF system itself works great, however. The Canon 5D is a metal body camera and feels solid and substantial in the hands, but not too heavy or bulky. If you buy this camera, do yourself a favor and immediately purchase yourself one of the 50mm prime lenses. The Canon f/1.4 50mm and this camera are practically a match made in heaven, talk about some fantastic picture quality.
Samuel H.
2012-04-29T21:00:00
I use this for landscape and wedding photography. The camera body is substantial and takes a beating. The full frame sensor is great for landscape work.
GREGORY D.
2012-04-15T21:00:00
Moving from film to digital was very confusing for me, especially with all the setting options on new digital cameras. I finally got a used Canon 5d from Adorama and immediately felt comfortable with it. It reminded me of my old film cameras, and, with a full frame sensor, it was my first choice for low light situations and portraiture. After several years, I invested in a new full-frame camera, but still have my original 5d. It remains an excellent photographic tool, especially when coupled with a Voigtlander 40/ 2.0 - also from Adorama - a truly competent lens that works nicely with the 5d. Both highly recommended.
DogFather
2012-01-29T19:00:00
I love the full frame sensor for landscapphotography as I get the full wide angle of my lenses. Heavy duty body handles rough and tumble of hiking in to get the good landscape shots.
GREGORY D.
2012-01-08T19:00:00
Moved to this 5D from a 7D. The full 35mm sensor makes a huge difference in low light.
TERRY S.
2011-12-11T19:00:00
I purchased the 5D used for a second body. However I found the 5D to be so much better than my 'primary' body I end up using the 5D exclusively! I know it's getting long in the tooth, but I just couldn't spend the cash on the 5D Mark II while waiting for the next version (the Mark III?) to come out.
DAVID D.
2011-12-04T19:00:00
Amazing camera with excellent low light capabilities using no flash. Compared to my 7D this camera is more difficult to use but produces MUCH better pictures. So much better that I am selling my 7D and buying another 5D as a back up.
TERRY S.
2011-11-22T19:00:00
Upgraded from a rebel & wow what a world of difference!!!! Love the speed, image quality, ease of use, what else can I say I love this camera!
CARRIE S.
2011-09-05T21:00:00
This is my first full frame. I went from the XSi to the 50D and knew I wanted to go full frame. I couldn't afford the 5D Mark II so I went for a used Classic 5D and I've never looked back! The detail and sharpness, combined with L glass primes, I'm in love! I LOVE the lower MP of this camera vs the 21MP of the 5d2! I'm a happy photographer with my Classic! Best photography decision I've made to date!
Momaziggy
2011-09-03T21:00:00
this camera is a fine tool for creating photographic art........
JAMES B.
2011-03-14T21:00:00
It"s a great camera period. I got it used, so the wear it came in cough me off guard in the long run..
george g.
2011-03-12T19:00:00
Unsurpassed image quality. This camera continues to amaze again and again and will hold its own up against newer models for years to come.
LOURI K.
2009-09-23T21:00:00
The 5D is still such a great camera, even in late 2009. I use it alongside a 1D Mark III and it performs VERY well and in certain circumstance such as portraits or fun DOF pics, I actually prefer the 5D. Makes your 24-70L wide, makes your 85mm1.8 and 135mmf2 shine. It would be nice to have a AF point array and AF speed/accuracy of the 1 series cameras but then we'd pay one series pricing. All in all, a great camera, be it primary or back up body!
Mike M.
2009-09-21T21:00:00
Love this camera, the full sensor makes all the difference and I can just feel the difference from my xti even in using it.
Sarah C.
2009-09-01T21:00:00
Canon 5D is awesome at an excellent price!
Czarina
2009-07-21T21:00:00
The most outstanding feature I like about this camera is that it does not stand out as a big pro-camera, but yet it is one. It runs so smooth it is like making pictures with butter instead of a camera. For what I do, this camera fills all of my needs, plus. I do not have any cons on this product. You have to study the Manuel, learn the workings of the camera. Get to understand what settings are suitable for your picture taking. Then learn to change the settings when you enter a different photographic environment. Every camera has different idiosyncrasies that we either adapt to, or call it a con and move on to the the next model camera.
Ed P.
2009-07-07T21:00:00
I put off buying this camera for over a year. After my first few images, I regret the delay.
audie c.
2009-07-07T21:00:00
I have the Canon 20D, the 40D, and I just purchased the 5D last month. I wanted the 5D for the medium format feature. After working with the 40D for over a year, it was a lit bit of a step back to the 5D. The LCD is smaller on the 5D, and the features are just a little older than the 5D. It is a BIT disappointing, BUT, I love the picture quality than I have with the 5D. After reading reviews, I felt that the 40D and 5D would be very similar, but I do notice a bit better quality/picture with the 5D. All in all, I am very pleased with it, but if had the dough, definitely would have opted for the 5D Mark.
Joelle
2009-06-23T21:00:00
We are using this as a second camera on all of our shoots now and have had great results with it. The camera is a little loud if you are trying to shoot without making noise.
JOHN J.
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Digital, single-lens reflex, AF/AE camera
Type I or II CF card *Compatible with Microdrive and 2GB and larger CF cards
35.8 x 23.9mm
Canon EF lenses (except EF-S lenses) Canon EF mount
High-sensitivity, high-resolution, large single-plate CMOS sensor
Approx. 12.80 megapixels
Approx. 13.30 megapixels
3:2
RGB primary color filter
Low-pass filter Located in front of the image sensor, non-removable
Design rule for Camera File System 2.0
Image type JPEG, RAW (12bit) Folder setting Folder creation/selection enabled
File numbering Consecutive numbering, auto reset, manual reset
Picture Style Standard, Portrait, Landscape, Neutral, Faithful, Monochrome, User Defined 1, 2, 3
(1) Large/Fine: Approx. 4.6MB (4368 x 2912 pixels) (2) Large/Normal: Approx. 2.3MB (4368 x 2912 pixels) (3) Medium/Fine: Approx. 2.7MB (3168 x 2112 pixels) (4) Medium/Normal: Approx. 1.4MB (3168 x 2112 pixels) (5) Small/Fine: Approx. 2.0MB (2496 x 1664 pixels) (6) Small/Normal: Approx. 1.0MB (2496 x 1664 pixels) (7) RAW: Approx. 12.9MB (4368 x 2912 pixels) * Exact file sizes depend on the subject, ISO speed, Picture Style, etc.
N/A
N/A
Eye-level pentaprism
Coverage Vertical/Horizontal approx. 96% Magnification 0.71x (-1 diopter with 50mm lens at infinity) Eyepoint 20 mm
Built-in dioptric adjustment -3.0 - +1.0 diopter Focusing screen Interchangeable (two types optional), Ee-A (Precision Matte) focusing screen provided
Mirror Quick-return half mirror (Transmission:reflection ratio of 40:60, no mirror cut-off with EF600mm f/4 or shorter lenses)
AF information (AF points, focus confirmation light), exposure information (shutter speed, aperture value, AE lock, exposure level, spot metering circle, exposure warning), flash information (flash ready, high-speed sync, FE lock, flash exposure compensation), white balance correction, maximum burst, CF card information
TFT color liquid-crystal monitor
2.5 in
Brightness adjustment Five levels provided
Pixels Approx. 230,000
Coverage 100% with respect to the effective pixels
Enabled with depth-of-field preview button
15
Image display format: Single image, shooting information, 9-image index, magnified view (Approx. 1.5x - 10x), autoplay, image rotation, and Jump (by 10 or 100 images, by date, by folder)
Highlight warning: In the shooting information mode, any overexposed highlight areas with no image information will blink.
Histogram Brightness: RGB
AF point display: Enabled
Protect Single images can be erase-protected or not.
Erase One image or all images in the CF card can be erased (except protected images).
TTL-CT-SIR with a CMOS sensor (TTL secondary image registration, phase detection)
AF points 9 plus 6 Assist AF points Metering range EV -0.5 - 18 (at 20°C/68°F, ISO 100)
One-Shot AF, AI Servo AF, AI Focus AF, Manual focusing (MF)
AF point selection Auto, manual
Selected AF point display Superimposed in viewfinder and indicated on LCD panel
AF-assist beam Emitted by the dedicated external Speedlite
35-zone TTL full aperture metering
Evaluative metering (linkable to any AF point)
Partial metering (approx. 8% of viewfinder at center)
Spot metering (approx. 3.5% of viewfinder at center)
Center-weighted Average Metering
EV 1-20 (at 20°C/68°F with EF50mm f/1.4 lens, ISO 100)
Full auto, program AE (shiftable), shutter-priority AE, aperture-priority AE, manual exposure, E-TTL II autoflash
Equivalent to ISO 100-1600 (in 1/3-stop increments), ISO speed can be expanded to ISO 50 and 3200.Full auto: ISO 100-400 set automatically
Manual: +/-2 stops in 1/3- or 1/2-stop increments (can be combined with AEB) AEB: +/-2 stops in 1/3- or 1/2-stop increments
AE lock Auto: Applied in One-Shot AF mode with evaluative metering when focus isachieved Manual: By AE lock button in all metering modes ..Shutter
Auto, daylight, shade, cloudy, tungsten light, white fluorescent light, flash, custom, color temperature setting
Auto white balance with the imaging sensor
Color temperature compensation White balance correction: +/-9 stops in full-stop increments
White balance bracketing: +/-3 stops in full-stop increments * Blue/amber bias or magenta/green bias possible
Color temperature information transmission: Provided
EOS-dedicated Speedlite: E-TTL II autoflash with EX-series Speedlite
Flash exposure: compensation +/-2 stops in 1/3- or 1/2-stop increments.
Provided
FE lock: Provided
Zooming to match lens focal length: Provided
Single, continuous, and Self-timer (10 sec.)
Max. 3 shots per sec.
JPEG (Large/Fine): Approx. 60, RAW: Approx. 17 * With a Canon 512MB CF card. * Varies depending on the subject, ISO speed, Picture Style, CF card, etc.
USB 2.0 Hi-Speed (Print/PTP, PC connection selectable)
NTSC/PAL
One Battery Pack BP-511A, BP-514, BP-511, or BP-512. * AC power can also be supplied with the DC Coupler. * With Battery Grip BG-E4, size-AA batteries can be used.
Battery life At 20°C / 68°F: Approx. 800 shots At 0°C / 32°F: Approx. 400 shots * The above figures apply when a fully-charged Battery Pack BP-511A is used.
Battery check Automatic
Power saving Provided. Power turns off after 1, 2, 4, 8, 15, or 30 min.
152 x 113 x 75 mm / 6.0 x 4.4 x 3.0 in.
Approx. 810g / 28.6 oz. (body only)
0°C - 40°C / 32°F - 104°F
85% or less
Your digital SLR or mirrorless interchangealbe lens compact camera probably came with a lens--a zoom lens, no doubt. But one of the most attractive things about a digital SLR is the ability to change lenses.
Picture-taking tools for serious photographers who have outgrown their starter DSLRs...or want a capable back-up for their pro rig.
Are DSLRs still the best choice if your passion is photography? You bet! (Updated 9/30/13)
Best "Bang for the Buck."
By tekdiver500ft
I will get the down and dirty out of the way quickly: this thing is phenomenal, go buy one right now, then come back and read the review. Done? Okay... Buy this camera for the image quality, as no other small format (35 mm form factor) camera equals it in this regard, including those priced four times as much. The key is the full size image sensor with only 12.8 megapixels packed into it. This means that the individual pixels are larger than on any other camera of its size. Larger pixels eq...
View full Review
A Good Start
By WADE S.
Bought the 5D classic as an introduction to full frame and to supplement my 70d. I love this camera. It lacks a lot of the features of the newer versions, but it produces amazing images nonetheless. I was worried about buying used, but Adorama sent me an 'E' rated 5D that looks almost new. Had to send it to Canon to get the mirror reattached after only a couple of months, but they did it for free as this is a known issue with the 5D. They had it just one week.
Combining the high-end specifications of the EOS-1 Line and the operational easeof the EOS 20D model, the Canon EOS 5D digital SLR is a premium digital SLR designed for a wide range of photographers. Boasting a 12.8 megapixel, 35mm full-size image sensor in a magnesium alloy body weighing just 28.6 ounces (810 grams), the EOS 5D digital SLR is a petite but powerful imaging machine.
The camera features a Canon-designed & manufactured CMOS image sensor. At 12.8 megapixels, there is enough resolution for a double-page spread in a magazine, a large print of the bride & groom, facial detail in group shots or a landscape of impressive dimensions. The sensor's 35.8 x 23.9mm size means that each pixel can be a generous 8.2mm, resulting in exceptionally low shadow noise, & increases the light-sensitive area of each pixel & improves dynamic range as well.
The full-size sensor maximizes performance of the world's largest selection of autofocus lenses. Even wide-angle lenses have the same look & feel they have with conventional SLR cameras, preserving their optical signatures. The addition of the DIGIC II image processor, provides detailed & natural color reproduction & fast image processing, including an incredible burst performance of 60 Large/Fine JPEGs or 17 RAW images at 3 fps. It also enhances start-up time bringing it down to a lightning fast 0.2 seconds.
A new feature called Picture Styles combines processing parameters & color matrix settings into easy settings designed to obtain the desired effect, almost like choosing a type of film to obtain a specific result, to avoid confusion of digital effects on the image. The Canon EOS 5D digital SLR has a new 9 point AF system with 6 Supplemental AF points, a new AF algorithm & a new AF circuitry.
The new AF system improves subject detection & focusing precision at the center, the most frequently used area, & significantly enhances subject tracking performance. The EOS 5D digital SLR has a newly developed, high-speed & highly durable shutter unit that was designed to meet the demanding requirements of a full-frame sensor in a relatively compact body.
The EOS 5D digital SLR has a solid, substantial & organic feel along with its compact dimensions & relatively light weight. The EOS 5D model has a 2.5" polysilicon TFT LCD monitor with approximately 230,000 pixels. At 170 degrees, it has an exceptionally wide viewing angle. Brightness on the monitor is also adjustable in 5 levels & the screen's backlight feature uses six LED modules.
The EOS 5D DSLR has a bevy of other high-end features including the same ISO range as the 1Ds Mark II ISO 100-1600 in 1/3-step increments & ISO speed extended at L:50, H:3200. Also included on the camera is ultra-precise white balance with 9 types of white balance settings, white balance bracketing, & white balance correction, enhanced 35-zone exposure metering, & spot metering in approximately 3.5 percent of the viewfinder area.