Canon EOS 30D Digital SLR Review

The Canon EOS 30D Digital SLR was first launched around February of 2006. It was apparently an upgraded version of the previous digital SLR model, the Canon EOS 20D. The EOS 30D was seen to carry the basic design and features of its predecessor. Be that as it may, there were also a number of enhancements in the new model.

The camera dimensions are 5.7 inches (w) x 4.2 inches (h) x 2.9 inches (d). It also tips the scale at 2.2 pounds. In comparison to the EOS 20D, the Canon EOS 30D Digital SLR boasts of a larger LCD monitor that is 2.5 inches wide with a resolution of 8.2 megapixels. The body was spruced up a bit to look more like the EOS 5D, but still maintaining the basic button-and-switch placement patterns of the EOS 20D.

The zoom and focal length is 28 to 88 mm, which is considered a 35 mm equivalent. The camera uses rechargeable battery packs that are made of lithium ion. Talking about memory capacity, the EOS 30D is equipped with a media slot that can accommodate a compact flash.

A direct print button found on the rear part of the camera has been added on purpose to facilitate in printing pictures. The shutter release push button has also been modified to work via soft-touch method.

Aside from the slight external changes, a number of internal mechanisms were also altered and enhanced. The AE/AF lock is kept in locked mode whenever the shutter is maintained at a half-pressed status in between shots. The startup and wake from sleep timer also works at a faster rate.

Another significant addition to the EOS 30D is the spot metering, which is a nonexistent feature in the previous model. With regards to the ISO settings, it can be fine-tuned in one-third stop increments instead of one whole stop steps. You can also see the ISO speed on the viewfinder as you alter the settings.

There are two existing selections for continuous shooting – 3fps and 5fps. Three new languages were also added giving the EOS 30D a total of fifteen different choices on the language menu. The camera utilizes the PictureStyles feature, which is another welcome enhancement to the model, rather than the simple image parameters. Compared to the EOS 20D’s capability of holding 100 images per folder, the 30D is able to house 9,999 pictures.

The CMOS sensor technology, which is a trademark of Canon, allows a wide and dynamic range that features less noise compared to its competitors in the market. The internal noise-elimination circuitry deals with any residual random noise in the image.

In conjunction with the CMOS sensor technology, the DIGIC II also helps
in producing excellent images by speed augmentation and image quality enhancements. It facilitates in managing candid and complicated color interpretation algorithms. In addition to color processing, it also aids in clearing the buffer when used in high speed.

The EOS 30D comes with the processing software called the Digital Photo Professional RAW, which allows you to edit images that were taken under raw settings. So instead of modifying the image on the camera itself, you have the option to take a photo at its unrefined state and then edit it afterwards. Other versions of useful software are also included in the package.

Pros: The EOS 30D is equipped with new features not found in its predecessor. It has a spot metering option and an improved ISO setting among others. In keeping with the body design of the EOS 20D, the upgraded model allows comfortable and easy handling with strategically positioned buttons and controls. It is also capable of producing excellent photos. Plus, the LCD monitor makes it easier to view and edit the images to your liking.

Cons: The camera is undoubtedly successful in a number of aspects. Nevertheless, for somebody who already owns an EOS 20D, the idea of purchasing this upgraded model would not be as enticing as you would imagine. Despite the number of improvements, it just seemed impractical to purchase a camera that does not offer that big of a difference in image quality, as well as in appearance. In other words, the EOS 30D significantly failed when viewed as an admirable upgrade of the EOS 20D.

Overall: With a price tag between $800 and $1400, the EOS 30D gives you the opportunity to capture images with excellent quality. In view of the features and comfort in handling, this model is ideal for professionals as well as for amateur photographers.

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