The 6D is one of the latest additions to Canon’s family of SLR cameras, introduced late in 2012. With a selling price of around £1,500 it is aimed at high-end “pro-sumer” and professional users.
With all the latest features such as built-in HDR, 1080p video recording, GPS and WiFi connectivity – it still manages to remain relatively small and light compared with Canon’s other high end DSLR options. In fact the 6D is currently the world’s smallest and lightest DSLR camera with a full-frame sensor.
Specification
- 35.8×23.9mm full-frame CMOS sensor.
- 20 MegaPixels (5,472 x 3648)
- Built-in sensor cleaning function
- ISO 100-25,600 (extendable from ISO 50 to 102,400!)
- 1,920×1,080 video recording up to ISO 12,800
- HDMI and analog output
- Mono microphone with stereo microphone jack
- 97% Coverage viewfinder with 71% magnification
- 11 Autofocus points
- 4.5FPS maximum shutter speed (or 3FPS “Silent” mode)
- Built-in GPS and WiFi
- One SD memory slot
- 3″ 1,040,000 dot LCD screen
- Size: 144.5mm x 110.5mm x 71.2mm and 755 grams
Performance
Many photographers will be left with a difficult choice between the 6D and the new 5D Mark III. In most aspects that really count, the 6D gives all of the same fantastic functionality as the 5D Mark III, but in a slightly smaller package. It misses out on a couple of features like dual card slots and simpler autofocus system, but will produce the same great image quality.
The 9-point autofocus system is a little outdated for a high-end model, but it is a tried-and-tested system which works quickly and accurately.
Ergonomically, the 6D falls into your hands very well. This has always been a strong point for Canon, and the 6D is a wonderful example of good button placement and weight balance. The lack of auto-brightness for the rear LCD is a shame, but manual adjustment is still possible. The camera feels really well made, and is splash-resistant – but don’t take it out in a storm.
The sensor in the 6D is a masterpiece. Your image quality will be limited only by your lenses. Even at ISO 25,600 images are still very usable with good colours and controlled noise.
Recommendations
For every day use a professional or advanced amateur, the 6D is a wonderful body which is sure to compliment any style of photography that you care to use it for. However if you are the kind of person that would miss the lack of on-board flash, then this isn’t the model for you!