Canon 7d - got tips? pointers?

CynthiaM

I ordered a 7 day today, upgrading from a 5 year old 20d. I would most appreciate posts with tips and pointers on using this camera, things that you struggled with to figure out, etc. I would especially like to hear how people are utilizing the new AF system. My old method in the 20d was to either use the center focus point or if I really wanted to be more precise, picking a specific focus point. How would that "translate" in this new AF system?

I understand that the camera has the capability to essentially self-calibrate a lens? Would you advise doing this pronto or wait and see if necessary?

Now that I have ordered it, I can't wait to get my hands on it. Looking forward to all of your helpful posts.

Thanks,
Cynthia

divamum

CynthiaM wrote: »

I ordered a 7 day today, upgrading from a 5 year old 20d. I would most appreciate posts with tips and pointers on using this camera, things that you struggled with to figure out, etc. I would especially like to hear how people are utilizing the new AF system. My old method in the 20d was to either use the center focus point or if I really wanted to be more precise, picking a specific focus point. How would that "translate" in this new AF system?

Exactly the same There are other focus modes, but it's entirely possible to use it exactly as you have described. Only with more focus points. And greater accuracy. At lighting speed.

I understand that the camera has the capability to essentially self-calibrate a lens? Would you advise doing this pronto or wait and see if necessary?

Search "autofocus microadjust" - Scott Quier wrote several helpful posts about ways to use this feature. If it's not in this section, try "Technique".

CynthiaM

Thanks for your comments/suggestions.

I debated between the 7d, the 5d mark II or waiting for the next generation 5d markII. Then I looked up the history of how often canon releases new cameras. Seems that the full frames are on close to a 3 year cycle which means that the 5d mark II is just about half way; didn't feel like waiting that long!

Regards,
Cynthia