They perform different functions and require different skill sets. Still cameras and video cameras are inherently different. Here is where the story of the 5D Mark II gets complicated. Newspaper photographers who have had to lug around a video camcorder in addition to their still gear have been anxiously awaiting this feature. Of course, what the pros are looking at is the ability of the camera to shoot HD video. Picture Style presets applied to a RAW image can be revised with Canon's Digital Photo Professional Software, which ships with the camera. The camera's default configuration is set to deliver immediately-enable JPEGs, without need for additional menu settings. We suspect that this technology emerged from the video division, as these presets have been standard on the higher-end video camcorders for several years. They are similar to using different film types, offering different color response. It also allows the photographer to preset individual picture styles with in-camera control over image quality. Video REC/PAUSE button is in the center of the control dial. Rear view of the Canon 5D Mark II showing LCD info menu display. It also has a sensor clearing feature that works automatically to reduce, repel and remove dust from its infrared filter.

A key feature that helped lead the way to the integration of the LIVE view video is that the DIGIC chips work fast enough to allow the camera to keep the buffer clear during extended series of shooting bursts, which can be shot at 3.9 frames per second. The camera uses Canon's CMOS sensor, which is processed by DIGIC 4 image processors before being written to the camera's memory card.

That camera was the first of its type (DSLR), which featured a compact body, not having the usual integral vertical grip, and produced full-frame images, meaning that a 50mm lens took a 50mm picture. The 5D Mark II is a major improvement on the earlier 5D, which was announced in 2005. As David Leeson said last month about the D90, he would advise them to 'shout loud and clear' about it. Even Nikon and Canon put this feature towards the very bottom of their own Web sites. They mention towards the bottom of their reviews that the camera has 'Live View' but don't seem to realize how this feature will change the entire camera industry. The amazing thing about both the Nikon and the Canon is that early reviewers have almost all given little attention to the video capability.

Canon mark 5d ii video tutorials