The moment of the appearance of the model came at the peak of the technological peak of the concept of SLR cameras. The leaders of the formed segment had only to look for new directions and ways to attract customers. As a result, Sony optimized its models by abandoning the pentaprism, Pentax relied on a stabilization system, and Nikon surprised everyone with the exception of the low-pass filter from the optional list. In turn, the creators of "Canon 70 D Body" continued the development of videographers, successfully implementing autofocus. However, this DSLR has not only distinguished itself favorably.
Camera construction and design
The device is not much different from previous modifications in terms of housing design. The knowing eye will find the same chopped outlines, completely subordinate to ergonomics and the control system. The model is based on a magnesium base, the lining is characterized by a low tendency to soiling and resistance to mechanical stress. But these are not all the positive qualities that characterize the external performance of "70 D". “Canon” provided rubberized inserts, thanks to which the tenacity with a grip of the structure significantly increased. A small device fits organically in your hand, giving your fingers easy access to the main controls.
Actually, this combination surprises users with a combination of modest dimensions and a rich internal "filling". However, for those who are not familiar with the lineup, this device may seem massive and weighty. Compared to competitors in the class, the model really seems a bit heavy, but if you compare it in your own family, then the relief in weight will become obvious. Also, in comparison with its predecessors, a tendency toward a change in optics has already taken shape. The complete camera lens, with all its advantages, imposes a limitation on the capabilities of the device, which forces sophisticated photographers to perfect such a crucial part of the camera.
Key Specifications
- The number of megapixels of the matrix is 20.2 million.
- The camera matrix is a 22.5x15 mm format CMOS system.
- Recording format - JPEG, RAW.
- The format of the pictures is the maximum size - 5472x3648.
- Exposure metering is carried out by the TTL system with an open aperture using a two-layer 63-zone silicon-based photocell.
- Photosensitivity - in the range of 100-12 800 ISO with the ability to connect auto-correction.
- The speed of serial photography of the device - 7 frames are produced per second.
- Exposure - for 30 seconds from 1/8000.
- The dimensions of the device are 139x78.5x104.3 mm.
- Mass - 755 g.
In addition, it is worth noting the extended list of interfaces that the camera is provided with. In particular, the creators provided a USB port, slots for almost modern memory cards, an external microphone, as well as an HDMI output. This content led to the wide communication capabilities of the Canon 70 D. The video features are also impressive: with a recording format of 1920x1080, the camera supports progressive scan and provides a frame rate of 30 frames per second.
Controls
For the most part, the developers have retained the previous control scheme, which, without a noticeable update, was successful. The mode selector is located on the left, where the battery control is. To access various functions, you should refer to the right part, there is also a small information screen. Only the focus area is knocked out of the previous concept. The back side remained unchanged, although a careful analysis reveals the desire of designers to anatomically position the 70 D controls. “Canon” managed to bring the lines closer to the optimal structure in terms of interaction with the palm and fingers. What is still noteworthy, if during operation the inconvenience of the location of a particular selector or button is revealed, the purpose of the problem element can be changed.
Functionality
The model received a new sensor, which largely determined the increase in the quality level of the family. So, if in previous versions the sensor was used at 18 megapixels, then this modification acquired the APS-C module, whose resolution is 20.2 megapixels. As a result, the camera received a two-pixel focusing system. Any camera lens from the EF and EF-S families suitable for its technical device can adjust autofocus for itself.
The CMOS system provides focus on more than 80% of the width and height of the screen frame. To implement the phase determination on the image plane, the right and left photodiodes are read separately, as a result of which the finished offset images are used to calculate phase mismatches. This operating principle is also confirmed by the practice of operating “70 D”. Canon has most successfully implemented the concept in the Live View system, which provides effective tracking focus for videographers.
Video recording
The screen in this model is rotary and touch, which allows you to literally mark objects on it with a finger for fixing autofocus. Actually, the videography of the device is one of the strengths. Even when compared with good representatives of Sony's SLR devices in the spirit of the SLT line, the advantages of the same focus will be obvious. Otherwise, the characteristics are familiar to fans of the family. The model provides FullHD recording at a standard frequency of 30 frames per second, but an increase in frequency is also possible. Offered and frame-by-frame compression, as well as proprietary stereo microphone "70 D". Canon offers a recording time interval of 30 minutes as a standard. Of course, even these camera capabilities are not enough to consider it as a professional device for video recording, but by the standards of the abilities of other representatives of the segment, this, of course, is a technological breakthrough.
Positive feedback about the model
First of all, professionals indicate an optimal design, which is soundly assembled and easy to handle. The anatomical implementation of the design is entirely commendable. Many owners of the device also emphasize the redesigned focus, which demonstrates effective operation in Live View. Modern lenses for the "Canon 70 D" from the EF families allow you to maximize the advantages of fast, clear and tenacious stabilization. Also, the model causes positive reviews in terms of working in video mode. In this part, you can highlight the confident capture of the frame, as well as the convenience of the provided controls.
Negative reviews
The connoisseurs of natural shots were disappointed by the fact that the device’s matrix passes the frame through the correction of the integrated editor before the final fixation. As a result, the photograph not only loses in naturalness, but also loses in overall quality, this is noticeable even with low sensitivity. There are questions to the unsuccessful execution of the functional "Canon 70 D". Reviews indicate that when the Wi-Fi module is on, the video mode does not work. Also, pictures in the HDR system can be taken in JPG, but not in RAW.
Conclusion
The model is one of the most successful representatives of the class of SLR cameras. The developers have complied with the optimal standard for providing basic technical and operational characteristics, and also mastered several new developments that have specifically improved the functionality of the EOS 70D camera. The price of the model, however, is also considerable and varies in the domestic market in the range of 60-70 thousand rubles. If you add a set of accessories, which is mandatory for a modern photographer, to the basic configuration, the amount will rise to 100 thousand. This investment is far from justified in many cases. For example, for a professional in the niche of photography, new video options may be unnecessary, which nevertheless noticeably increased the overall attractiveness of the model. But for mobile video enthusiasts, this option is ideal. True, only for the amateur level, which is due to the restriction on the recording frequency and recording formats compared to professional equipment.