Still a little cracker! (Canon EOS 5)

Member Name: Astro

Product:	Canon EOS 5
Date:	11/10/00 (5291 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Brilliant system camera.

Disadvantages: None for me.

The EOS5. Its an SLR camera so what you see is pretty close to what you will get on the print or slide. The lenses are interchangeable so with the vast array of lenses available in Canon fit most types of work can be tackled. This is not the only Single Lens Reflex camera on the market, there are many.

So why an EOS5? Well it's been in production for nine years, this is no mean feat. Not with the Japanese, they won't keep an item in production if it doesn't sell.
Why does it still sell after all these years? It is still as it always was a very good camera.

I don't intend to bore anyone with detailed specifications, these can be found in literature from various sources, do plenty of research before making such a purchase, visit a good dealer (such as Jessops) and get the camera in your hands.
The EOS5 is not a small machine, however, it is not particularly heavy. The balance of the camera is very good, made more so by the addition of the VG10 vertical grip. This device adds a shutter release and main dial to the right end of the base of the camera to improve use in vertical mode. Ergonomics is important with a camera, if you don't like using it you've wasted your money.
The Auto Focus is typically Canon. Fast and positive, with Canon's own lenses, less so with some independent ones. If the price of a canon lens is close to the price of the independent version always choose the Canon it will be worth more as a trade in.

The eye controlled AF is the only bone of contention on this and other Canons in my opinion. I don't find it of much value, others do. What I do find useful is the eye controlled Depth of Field preview associated with it.
The built in flash is quite competent and zooms its head as the lens zoom control is operated. Very clever aren't they? A more powerful flash unit will cover greater distances, and Canon has several available from about £150.

I've just made the
se few minor points to guide potential purchasers along the way. I do urge any camera buyer to physically handle a prospective purchase before buying. Don't simply rely on specification to make your choice.

The EOS5 is now an even more attractive proposition second hand for about £300 body only. There are many good examples about for the cost conscious.

In conclusion, I find the EOS5 to be a very capable camera with superb handling and consummate ease of use. It is a system camera with many useful features and a large number of lenses are available to fit. It's a great bit of kit. Take a look at one, you may well agree!

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