Strengths:Large 2.5" LCD, spot metering, more ISO options, new shooting modes (picture styles, continuous)
Posted May 9, 2006 - As the title states, I did a lot of reading before upgrading from the 20D to the 30D. Some would say, "why?" and the answer lies in a few upgrades that I considered to be worth $300 or so.
* The large LCD is certainly a plus. When previewing images, this LCD is not only larger, but it also allows a much wider viewing angle. The wider viewing angle allows me to tilt the camera up to 170 or so degrees without losing the LCD brightness or image contrast.
* Spot Metering is another addition that adds to the value of this upgrade. While spot metering is NOT something one needs in MOST cases, there are simply times when spot metering is the only way to get the shot.
* Enhanced ISO stepping allows me to select ISO stops inbetween the normal 200-400, 400-800 and 800-1600. Sometimes you don't need 800, but you do need more than 400.
* Better in-camera image enhancing modes. I believe they are termed Picture Styles. Standard, Portrait, Landscape, Neutral, Faithful and Monochrome. The definitions for these can be seen on the Canon website and they do stand up to their definitive purposes.
The continuous shooting mode now has an option between 5fps and 3fps. Sometimes, the 5fps was simply way too fast. For most purposes, 3fps is good enough, but capturing jets, for example, may need 5fps. I was taking pictures of the Blue Angels and the 5fps certainly came in handy.
* Something else to note... I would swear that this camera's shutter mechanism is quieter than the 20D which had more of a mechanical slap to it than a electronic release sound.
* Another point some might make is the need for more megapixels. At 8.2 MP, and seeing what pics the 20D produced using the same sensor, there was absolutely no reason to have, say, 10 MP. While it would have been a nice "throw it in", I can't say I'd be willing to pay a lot for that type of upgrade since I don't see the value in doing so. As it stands, 8.2 MP can produce an image print of well above 8x10.
I've shot with my 17-85mm IS and 70-300mm IS and have loved every shot.
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