Last update 18 November’09 – Review and Sample Photos @ WDC
Canon EOS 7D announced on September 1, 2009 is an 18 megapixel CMOS Sensor DSLR that features Dual DIGIC 4 Image Processors, dual layer metering, ISO range from 100 to 6400, 8 fps, 19 point AF, 3 inch TFT LCD, camera dimensions (WxHxD) approx. 5.8 x 4.4 x 2.9 in./148.2 x 110.7 x 73.5mm, and it weighs approx. 28.9 oz./820g (body only).
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Review Index – (updated 18 November’09)
WDC
It’s pretty dicey business to change a system that has proven it works, however, Canon seems to been able to do it with the 7D. They’ve increased usability with subtle changes. The camera has a solid feel and is obviously a well built camera, perfect as a regular piece of gear for a semi pro or a second unit for a professional. High quality images, outstanding high ISO and video performance make this camera a real contender for those looking at the EOS 5D.
Rating: 
Gizmodo
It’s obvious that Canon’s commitment to DSLR video is very strong and is creating a foothold that Nikon might have a difficult time competing in. The D300s and the 7D both provide outstanding quality however the reviewer notes the 7D delivers more for the money primarily because it’s packed with new technology. And in particular the video is a very cool feature for those who need it. Looks like the competitive pressure is on for the D400.
The Digital Picture
“Overall the 7D is the leader of the APS-C DSLRs pack and there is no debate, it is the very best yet. However, I would really liked it if Canon had chose to produce sharper photos at the lower sharpness settings. At the end of the day this camera produces pro level performance and wonderful photo quality all wrapped into one beautiful package.”
Neutralday
“This is a top notch DSLR even the grip has been improved and Canon added cool enhancements to the cameras layout. Items like bigger buttons and cool Live View recording switch. Tough as they come in the build department it just feels sturdy and very professional yet the exterior feels better than the 5D Mark II. With remarkable photo quality and amazing low light ISO capability this things is as good as it gets.”
Rating: 
Video Review at WDC
DPExpert
“The 7D with its APS-C size sensor is now in the ring with Nikon’s D300s, finally plugging a hole in Canon’s line. Which one to buy? No problem, which lenses do you already own? Just starting you say? Consensus is the Nikon has a little more professional feel to it and many say does better in low light because of the focus assist ability.”
ePhotozine
“For the price you would expect to get a lot for you money and for the most part you do get it. This camera is loaded with features and is built like a tank. Performance was outstanding and the photo I took were great so in my opinion this one is a keeper and worth your consideration.”
Rating:
CNET.uk
“Here’s a great camera that does not seem to have any faults. You get a lot for your money including an all metal body and frames per second shooting speeds that are topped by cameras costing a lot more. On top of that super nice high resolution plus HD movie capture and Nikon and other manufacturers will have to go some to beat this DSLR.”
Rating:
CameraLabs
“This camera is clearly Canon’s fastest and most dependable non-pro DSLR so far and we give it our full recommendation. We are used to seeing updates that were more minor than major. Yet Canon managed to improve just about every aspect of the 7D to end up with a camera that is packed with many great features. While it may not pack the power of the full frame and photo quality of the 5D but all other areas, it’s top rung.”
Rating:
TrustedReviews
“No doubt about it, this is one of nicest cameras currently on the market. Bullet proof build quality, ultra fast performance and superb photo quality in just about every situation you could come up with. OK so it’s more expensive than it’s competitors but the extra money gets you one of the best cameras on the planet.”
Rating: 
DPReview
“This is a very convincing camera in all aspects, and especially at its price this thing will go head-to-head with Nikon’s top dog the D300S. Image quality is excellent in all photo situations and it’s really speedy in operation, combine this with outstanding construction quality and impeccable shooting results make this camera a very easy recommendation.”
Rating:
B&H
“Photo technology is offered in this DSLR in a well planned and thought out package. This is the first camera of its kind in how it handles and what it is capable of delivering. Canon has delivered a camera that directly meets the needs of the most demanding pro.”
PhotoReview
“This is your camera if: – You need a DSLR camera with a 1.6x crop factor sensor for wildlife photography with telephoto lenses – Your style of photography absolutely needs fast burst rates and a large buffer capacity – You like the idea of shooting stills and HD video with the same camera – You like the idea of high ISO sensitivity range for still images and video – You need the ability of the EOS 5D Mark II without handing over $2100 more.”
Rating:
GoodGearGuide
“We really liked the feel of the EOS 7D — even it was a little heavy — it’s really an easy camera to use, even if you’re not familiar with Canon’s menu system.Low light photos were simply stunning and it had rich color in bright sunny conditions. Its burst mode is very cool. It pounded out nearly five frames per second, nice. Our only problems were with the focusing, which was at times a little off the marks.”
Rating:
Pocket-lint
“Image quality is top notch apart from shooting above ISOs of 6400 and the purple fringing that shows up in some high contrast images. The 7D might not be the natural choice for those photographers 5D Mark II on their minds, but for those shooting sports or where longer focal lengths are needed for wildlife work, and you’re on a tighter budget, the 7D makes a lot more sense than the EOS 1D Mk III.”
Rating:
Neocamera
“The Canon EOS 7D is an wonderfully versatile camera. Its powerful feature set make it one of the most complete DSLRs on the market. With its high-resolution sensor, wide range of ISO values, high-speed continuous drive,there is nothing too difficult for it. Its durable and weather-sealed body can be packed to more places than most cameras.”
HardwareZone
“So the crux of it all is this – should you upgrade? Without a shadow of a doubt, we would recommend that whoever owns an xxD series to upgrade, because this is as good as it gets for a 1.6x crop camera. You can either choose to get current technology and enjoy it while you can, or you can wait a year to see what else Canon can deliver. In short, go get the 7D. You won’t regret it.”
Rating:
TechRadar
“Just about the only area in which the 7D is significantly better than the D300S is its video mode. The D300S’ is seriously hampered – only five minutes of recording time per clip, a maximum of 720p resolution and the generally less impressive overall quality of Motion-JPEG compared to the 7D’s silky-smooth H.264 all make the 7D better for aspiring videographers.”
Rating:
PhotographyBlog
“The only real fly in the ointment is the official recommended retail price is starting to step on the toes of the 5D Mark II, which lacks some of the newer innovations and weather-sealing, but does offer that coveted 21 megapixel full-frame sensor and even better ISO performance.”
Rating:
Camera Town (As compared to the Canon EOS 5D Mark II)
“In testing I did discover that the EOS 7D seems to record at a higher bit rate since its file size for the same recordings are always 16-18% larger than the file size from the 5D Mark II.”
Luminous Landscape (First Report)
“Frankly, the reason is that I am seeing things which I am not sure are a consequence of the camera’s inherent characteristics or are specific to pre-production cameras or even this specific camera. This includes overall image softness and some digital artifacting. Nothing terrible mind you; just enough though that I am aware of it, and therefore don’t want to make any undue assumptions.”
Digitalrev
Preview Index
Steve’s Digcams (Preview)
“Once in your hands, you can immediately feel the ergonomic improvements of the Canon EOS 7D camera, starting with a new super-fluid body design with continuous curves outlining the top of the camera and a revised grip that fits better in a user’s hand. The camera has a new Quick Control Button, which opens an easy-to-navigate menu on the camera’s LCD screen.”
PDNGearGuide (Hands-On Preview)
“I was impressed with how much technology Canon has packed into the 7D. This is a serious mid-level professional digital SLR for serious photographers and it should gives its rivals in the HD video/APS-C sensor category — the Nikon D300s and Pentax K-7, in particular — a serious run for their money. But along with adding new features including a much sought-after 24p mode for its HD capture mode, Canon has rethought this entire category of camera with the 7D by making it photographically advanced yet highly usable.”
Rob Galbraith (Hands-On Preview)
“Control layout and customization Given the fact the 7D isn’t that much bigger a camera, Canon has done well in dispensing with the 50D’s cramped button layout in favour of buttons that are larger, arranged mostly on the side of the rear LCD rather than below it and are easier to press.”
Popsci (Hands-On Preview)
“Again, we only spent about 30 minutes face to face with a prototype, but even that was enough to realize that the 7D will be a strong contender with both videographers (with its increased framerate support) and photographers (with its enhanced auto-focus, rugged body and overhauled menus and custom functions) at a semi- or fully professional level. The only thing missing (and this will be a dealbreaker for many in the pro-leaning market, I imagine) is the full-frame sensor.”
Imaging Resource (Preview)
“The Canon 7D is long overdue. It’s been rumored for something like five years, though most of those rumors spec’d it as a full-frame camera. But I think this is just right: I don’t think they could have included another important feature without making the Canon 7D look absurd. Okay, maybe a real AF-assist lamp is all that’s missing.”
DPReview (Preview)
“The 7D isn’t a 50D with a new sensor, viewfinder and revised body – other headline changes include a new AF system with a dedicated processor, dual Digic 4 processors and new shutter mechanism to allow 8fps continuous shooting and the ability to control groups of external flashguns using its built-in flash. However, the updates extend beyond these big-feature changes to include a variety of tweaks, refinements and additions. Make no mistake, Canon wants to be the default choice again.”
LetsGoDigital (Preview)
“To sum it up; the Canon EOS 7D is an advanced semi-pro DSLR camera which incorporates several technology from the professional EOS-series, yet also features many new technologies and innovations applied to an EOS camera for the first time. Mainly creative photographers will feel invited by the 7D to take that extra step. The support you gain from the high-end technology really gives the photographer the feeling it was his own hand that captured that one incredible photo moment.”
Owner Feedback
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Sample Photos
[Sample Photos @ WDC]
[Sample Photos @ Neutralday]
[Sample Photos @ DPExpert]
[Image Quality Sample @ CNET.uk]
[ISO Comparison Samples @ CameraLabs]
[ISO Comparison Samples @ TrustedReviews]
[Image Samples @ DPReview]
[Image Samples @ Pocket-lint]
[Image Samples @ Neocamera]
[Image Samples @ HardwareZone]
[Image Samples @ TechRadar]
[Image Quality Samples @ PhotographyBlog]
[Image Samples @ Focus Numerique (Google Translated)]
[Image Samples @ Jeff Ascough]
[Image Quality Samples @ Photography Review]
[Image Quality Samples @ Imaging Resource]
[Sample Photos @ DPReview]
[Sample Photos @ Canon Japan]
Press Release
London, UK, 1 September 2009: Canon today unveils the EOS 7D digital SLR camera – a completely new design to meet the specific demands of photographers. Incorporating a new 18MP APS-C CMOS Sensor, developed by Canon, the EOS 7D also features: Dual “DIGIC 4” processors to offer fast, high-quality performance in all light conditions, an ISO range expandable to 12,800 and continuous shooting at 8 frames per second – without the need for additional accessories. Impressive technologies are matched by excellent build-quality designed with the photographer in mind – to create a whole new photographic experience.
During extensive development Canon went back to the drawing board, listening to photographers worldwide in order to design the EOS 7D to meet their specific needs. Commenting on the creation of the EOS 7D, Mr. Shinbori, Deputy Group Executive of Photo Products Group & Senior General Manager of Camera Development Center, Canon Inc,said “We consulted over 5,000 photographers worldwide and asked them what they most wanted to see from a camera. Matching this insight with cutting-edge technology, we were able to develop a camera that truly gives photographers the versatile tool they require to experiment with their images.”
Accurate Images – High performance AF and metering systems
The EOS 7D features a 19-point cross-type AF sensor, enabling photographers to achieve accurate shots and optimise composition options. This improved AF system offers a range of manual and automatic settings including Zone and Spot AF to track and capture subjects quickly and accurately. AF settings are highly customisable, allowing for rapid reaction to changes in the scene. Different AF points can be set for vertical or horizontal orientation, so photographers can automatically switch between landscape and portrait shots without touching a button.
The EOS 7D also incorporates a new metering system. The Focus Colour Luminance metering system (iFCL) intelligently measures focus, colour and luminance, across 63 zones. Complementing the 19 AF points, the dual layer sensor is able to gather information from each distinct zone to obtain a more accurate and consistent exposure.
Capture images exactly as you see them
The Canon EOS 7D features an Intelligent Viewfinder that offers photographers 100 per cent frame coverage. With 1.0x magnification* – a first for EOS – photographers see a large bright image that helps to fully immerse them within the shot. A transmissive LCD incorporated in the viewfinder allows photographers to choose between various overlay features – such as AF points, the spot metering circle and composition grid – providing a range of tools that help when framing a shot. The EOS 7D is also the first EOS to introduce a Dual-Axis Electronic Level – in the viewfinder and on the LCD – that indicates both pitch and roll angles. This feature is particularly useful when shooting landscapes to ensure a level horizon, or when used in conjunction with a Tilt and Shift lens to level the camera.
The camera features a new 3 inch Clear View II LCD screen with a solid structure screen, designed to combat glare by removing the air-gap between the LCD’s protective cover and the liquid crystal. This new screen has a viewing angle of 160 degrees and is effective even in bright light. As with the EOS 5D Mark II, an ambient light sensor on the side of the screen can set brightness automatically depending on the environment.
Experiment creatively with light
The Canon EOS 7D is equipped with an Integrated Speedlite Transmitter. For the first time in an EOS, photographers can control external Speedlites with no additional accessories – ideal for those looking to experiment with creative lighting set-ups. The EOS 7D also features an extensively upgraded, built-in flash including manual control, and wider flash coverage to cover focal lengths as wide as 15mm.
Customize your individual camera experience
The EOS 7D has been conceived and designed with the photographer’s needs in mind. The look and feel of the camera has been aesthetically and ergonomically crafted to offer photographers the very best interaction. To this end, the photographer can design their own experience – camera operations are customisable, allowing the user to assign frequently used functions and settings to convenient controls. This enables photographers to save time when shooting critical moments, by changing settings quickly.
Impressive Features, Impressive Images
The Canon EOS 7D is packed with new features:
- 18 MP APS–C CMOS Sensor
Designed and manufactured by Canon, the sensor produces an outstanding image and offers fantastic performance at high and low conditions, thanks to a new photodiode and microlens construction.
- 8 fps image capture
Enabled by the Dual “DIGIC 4” processors and improved electrical system, photographers can capture images at 8fps, without the need for additional accessories and in all file types.
- ISO Range
The EOS 7D enables photographers to capture subjects in their natural light. The ISO range (100 – 6,400) is expandable to 12,800.
- EOS Movie
With improved operation, making it easy to switch directly to movie mode, it is now even simpler to shoot Full HD video. Users can set exposure and frame rate – with options for 24 fps to create that cinematic feel.
- Dual “DIGIC 4” processors
By utilising Dual “DIGIC 4” processors, users of the EOS 7D never have to compromise between shooting speed, image quality and ISO performance.
- Impressive Design
Canon has listened to photographer feedback when designing the body, as well as the internal technologies. A magnesium alloy body offers environmental protection – the tough, lightweight construction is designed to defend against moisture, and dust – equivalent to the legendary EOS–1N.
The camera is compatible with a wide range of accessories so it can easily be integrated with a photographer’s workflow. The Wireless File Transmitter (WFT-E5) allows extensive camera control via a web browser – allowing photographers to control the camera using a web-enabled mobile device.
The EOS 7D is compatible with all EF and EF-S lenses as well as Canon EX Speedlites. The Canon EOS 7D can also be used with Battery BG-E7, and remote controllers and switches such as the remote Controller RC-1/RC-5.
* with 50mm lens at infinity, -1(1/m) dpt
Technologies Explained:
Canon CMOS sensor
The EOS 7D includes a new 18 megapixel CMOS sensor with a wide ISO range that delivers excellent results in both the low and high-speed ranges as well as improved image quality. The sensor is a standard APS-C size (22.4×14.9mm) and produces an effective field of view of 1.6x the lens focal length.
The EOS 7D sensor features condensed circuitry with improved sensitivity and increased capacity of the photodiodes, which enables shooting at high ISO and prevents overloading when shooting in bright conditions. The ISO range (100 – 6400) is expandable to 12800 enabling photographers to capture subjects in their natural light without the use of a flash.
The EOS 7D sensor includes gapless microlenses that have been moved closer to the photodiodes. These technological advances, which were developed and manufactured by Canon, improve the signal to noise ratio creating very clean high ISO images.
19-point cross-type AF system including Spot AF
The AF system has been completely redesigned using the same architecture as the EOS-1 series and includes a separate processor to handle AF calculations. This, along with AI SERVO II AF, enables the EOS 7D to offer accurate, reliable and continuous shooting at 8fps. Uniquely at this level, all 19 points in the EOS 7D AF sensor are cross-type points with f/5.6 or faster lenses, which allows sophisticated tracking, accuracy and performance throughout the frame.
EOS 7D also includes Spot AF, a new mode that uses a smaller area of the sensor to determine focus. This is useful for small subjects where there is background detail that can distract the AF sensor. It also includes Zone AF which limits automatic selection to one of five zones. This allows photographers to ensure their subject is automatically selected.
iFCL metering system with 63-zone Dual-layer Sensor
The iFCL system uses Focus, Colour and Luminance information to determine consistently exposed shots. All focus points provide distance information to the metering system to determine proximity to the subject and allow the algorithm to weight the exposure accordingly. EOS 7D has a completely new metering sensor with 63 zones compatible with 19 AF points. Typically, metering sensors are more sensitive to red subjects which can lead to overexposure. EOS 7D combats this with the dual layer sensor, which has one layer sensitive to red and green light and one that is sensitive to blue and green light. The metering algorithm then compares the level of the two layers and adjusts the meter reading accordingly.
100% Viewfinder with 1.0x magnification and built in LCD overlay
The EOS 7D features a high quality viewfinder with 100% coverage and 1.0x magnification – a first for EOS – making it simple and ease to use. The viewfinder uses a prism, coating technologies and eyepiece lenses inspired by the EOS-1 series.
EOS 7D viewfinder does not have interchangeable focussing screens. In their place is a Transmissive LCD Screen – another first for EOS. Through technological advances Canon has been able to implement the screen whilst maintaining viewfinder image quality. This new feature, which can be illuminated in lowlight, enables grid, spot metering and AF points to be superimposed upon demand.
EOS Movie
The EOS 7D features an improved movie function allowing users to record Full HD movies with full manual control and selectable frame rates. The operation of the movie function has been improved to make it easier to use via direct access to settings with dedicated buttons. AF can now be started by either half pressing the shutter button or using the AF-ON button as before.
The exposure of the movie can be controlled in Manual mode allowing full control of shutter speeds and apertures. It is possible to select frame rates from: 30 (29.97), 25, and 24 (23.976), with 60 (59.94) and 50 available at 720p. ISO can be set automatically or manually in the range (100-6400) and is expandable to 12800. EOS 7D also allows users to trim and cut their movies.
Dual “DIGIC 4”
EOS 7D is fitted with Dual “DIGIC 4” processors; the power of the processors enables more advanced processing algorithms allowing the camera to achieve a high performance 8fps at 18 megapixels.
DIGIC 4 removes the highly noticeable colour noise as well as reducing luminance noise without loss in detail, allowing for very clean high ISO images. Even at ISO 6400 noise levels are similar to those of ISO 1600 from DIGIC III. Auto Lighting Optimiser is now also available during manual exposure, without any drop in performance.
DIGIC 4 also allows UDMA cards (mode 6) to be used at their full speed, which allows the EOS 7D to take advantage of the fastest cards available.
Clear View II
EOS 7D’s 3 inch LCD monitor has 920,000 dots (VGA resolution) with a viewing angle of 160°. Clear View II has been designed to combat glare by removing the air-gap between the LCD’s protective cover and the liquid crystal. The air-gap is filled with an elastic optical material. This has the affect of suppressing the reflections from the surface of the liquid crystal, caused by the sharp change in refractive index, as light travels through the air-gap. In order to protect the liquid crystal from scratches the Clear View II LCD features a hardened glass cover material. As with the EOS 5D Mark II, an ambient light sensor on the side of the screen can set brightness automatically depending on the environment.
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
Full manual focus control with HD video ! ! They must be kitting. ! !
Very !
Very very very disappointed due to no Auto focus at HD video.