Canon DSLR Camera - Review & Buying Guide - 2023
Canon makes some of the best DSLR cameras on the market. If you're looking for a large and capable camera for professional use or just to take on the road, their lineup of DSLR models is definitely something to check out. With so many options, you may not know where to start.
Choosing the right Canon camera comes down to deciding what specs and features you want. Each camera comes in one of two sensor sizes: APS-C and full frame. In addition to determining the size of the photos you can take, sensor size also influences the camera's overall resolution, image quality, and low-light capabilities.
We've done the research to help you find the Best Canon DSLR camera. Read on for our handy guide to some of the most important features and specifications to consider before buying your own camera.
Canon DSLR Image Sensors
The image sensor is the key component of a Canon DSLR camera. Think of the image sensor as the equivalent of film in an old-fashioned camera. The image sensor measures the intensity and color of the light that travels through the lens. It converts those light measurements into digital data that a computing device uses to recreate the image on a screen.
A physically larger image sensor will measure light more accurately than a smaller image sensor. In fact, the size of the image sensor directly correlates to the performance of the DSLR camera in low light conditions.
Canon DSLR cameras offer two types of image sensors: full-frame image sensors and APS-C image sensors.
- Full Frame Image Sensors
A full-frame image sensor is used in high-end Canon DSLR cameras, as this type of image sensor offers the best image quality.
A full-frame image sensor approximates the size of a frame of old 35mm film, measuring 36mm x 24mm.
- APS-C Image Sensors
An APS-C image sensor is slightly smaller than a full-frame image sensor, but larger than the image sensor in a point-and-shoot camera.
Canon DSLRs offer several slightly different measurements of APS-C image sensors. Some Canon DSLRs offer a 22.5mm x 15mm image sensor, for example. You can also find Canon DSLR image sensors that measure 22.3mm x 14.9mm.
The full-frame and APS-C image sensors in Canon DSLR cameras are much larger than the image sensor you'd find in a smartphone camera. This difference is one of the main reasons why DSLRs create much higher image quality than smartphone cameras.
Other Key Parts of DSLR Cameras
Canon DSLR cameras have components that clearly differentiate them from point-and-shoot cameras and smartphone cameras. These components allow you to create great images and enhance the overall enjoyment of the camera.
- Flash
Some Canon DSLR cameras include a convenient pop-up flash. However, for better quality, you may want to purchase and use an external flash with your DSLR camera.
- Image Processor
The image processor allows the camera to process data from photographs. Newer image processors work faster than older ones. With faster processing speed, you can take multiple photos per second in burst mode.
- Right Grip
Don't forget this key part of the DSLR camera body. The right hand grip allows you to hold the camera comfortably. A smartphone camera does not offer this type of accommodation.
- Memory Card Slots
Some Canon DSLR cameras offer two memory card slots, while others only have one. If you often take photos with your camera attached to a tripod, look for a camera body with memory card slots on the side of the DSLR.
(If the memory card slot is on the bottom of the camera, you'd have to remove the DSLR from the tripod to access the memory card.)
- Resolution/megapixels
As already mentioned, the size and quality of the image sensor plays an important role in the quality of the DSLR image.
However, it is also notable that a camera with a higher megapixel measurement (or higher resolution) produces better images than a camera with a lower number of megapixels.
- Viewfinder
You can use a viewfinder to frame the scene with a Canon DSLR camera. (With smartphone cameras, you'll frame the scene using the view screen.)
A viewfinder helps you overcome any glare on the screen that might make it difficult to frame the scene.
For example, if you're shooting in bright sunlight, having a viewfinder is very helpful.
Canon DSLR Prices
Canon offers a large number of DSLR cameras at different prices. With so many options, you're sure to find something that fits your budget.
FAQ
Que. What are some of the hidden costs of Canon DSLR cameras?
Ans. As your photography skills grow, you'll probably want to add more lenses to your collection. Different lens options provide more versatility in the types of photos you can take. You may also want to purchase accessories such as an external flash unit that attaches to the hot shoe for digital DSLR cameras. Buying a tripod allows you to keep your Canon DSLR camera stable for certain types of photos. You will need a memory card and a camera bag as well.
Que. Why did my Canon DSLR ship with a kit lens?
Ans. Canon offers its DSLR cameras for sale in a couple of configurations. One of the most common options involves purchasing the DSLR with a kit lens or two. The lens kit is a basic lens that is compatible with the DSLR camera. Using the lens kit, you can start taking photos as soon as you receive the camera.
If you bought a Canon DSLR-only camera, you would have to provide your own lens, as one would not be included in the box.
Que. Can I use older lenses with a new Canon DSLR camera?
Ans. The type of lens mount that comes with your DSLR camera determines what types of lenses you can use. Canon offers two lens mounts with its DSLRs: the EF mount and the EF-S mount. The EF-S mount only accepts EF-S compatible lenses. The EF mount accepts any EF lens and any EF-S lens.
As long as the lens on your older camera can fit the lens mount on your Canon DSLR camera, it should be compatible.
Que. Can I shoot video with a Canon DSLR camera?
Ans. One of the biggest improvements DSLR cameras have made in the last decade is the ability to record high-quality video. With a large image sensor and fast processor, good cinematic quality video can be shot with a Canon DSLR camera. At a minimum, you will be able to record video with Full HD resolution. Some Canon DSLRs even offer 4K recording resolution.
Many Canon DSLR cameras have a microphone connection port that allows you to record high-quality audio, too.
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