The Canon 70D is a highly acclaimed digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera that has been a favorite among photography enthusiasts and professionals alike. Released in 2013, this camera model marked a significant milestone in the EOS series, offering a plethora of innovative features and improvements over its predecessors. In this article, we will delve into the details of the Canon 70D’s release, its key features, and what made it a standout in the world of photography.
Introduction to the Canon 70D
The Canon 70D was officially announced on July 2, 2013, and it was made available to the public in late August of the same year. This camera was designed to replace the Canon 60D, which had been a popular choice among photographers since its release in 2010. The 70D brought with it a host of new features, including improved autofocus, enhanced video capabilities, and a more robust build quality.
Key Features of the Canon 70D
One of the most notable features of the Canon 70D is its 20.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, which provides excellent image quality and a wide range of tonal values. The camera also features a DIGIC 5+ image processor, which enables fast and efficient processing of images, as well as a range of advanced features such as in-camera HDR and multiple exposure modes.
In terms of autofocus, the Canon 70D boasts a 19-point all-cross-type AF system, which provides fast and accurate focusing, even in low-light conditions. The camera also features a 7fps continuous shooting mode, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as sports and wildlife.
Video Capabilities
The Canon 70D is also an excellent choice for videographers, offering a range of advanced features such as 1080p Full HD video recording at 30fps, as well as a 3.5mm stereo microphone jack for high-quality audio recording. The camera also features a vari-angle 3-inch LCD touchscreen, which provides a convenient and intuitive way to compose and review footage.
Design and Build Quality
The Canon 70D features a weather-sealed body, which provides protection against dust and moisture, making it an ideal choice for photographers who work in harsh environments. The camera also has a pentaprism viewfinder, which provides a clear and accurate view of the scene, as well as a built-in flash for added convenience.
In terms of ergonomics, the Canon 70D features a comfortable and intuitive design, with a range of controls and buttons that are easily accessible and customizable. The camera also has a large and comfortable grip, which makes it easy to hold and maneuver, even for extended periods of time.
Comparison to Other Camera Models
The Canon 70D was released at a time when the camera market was highly competitive, with a range of other manufacturers offering similar models. However, the 70D’s unique combination of features, including its advanced autofocus system and robust build quality, made it a standout in the market.
Some of the key competitors to the Canon 70D at the time of its release included the Nikon D7100 and the Sony Alpha a77. While these cameras offered some similar features, the Canon 70D’s overall package, including its image quality, autofocus, and video capabilities, made it a highly attractive option for many photographers.
Legacy of the Canon 70D
The Canon 70D has had a lasting impact on the world of photography, and it remains a popular choice among photographers today. Its innovative features, including its advanced autofocus system and robust build quality, have set a new standard for DSLR cameras, and it has inspired a range of subsequent models, including the Canon 80D and the Canon 90D.
In conclusion, the Canon 70D is a highly capable and feature-rich DSLR camera that has made a significant contribution to the world of photography. Its release in 2013 marked a major milestone in the EOS series, and it has remained a popular choice among photographers ever since. Whether you are a professional photographer or an enthusiast, the Canon 70D is definitely worth considering, and its legacy continues to inspire and influence the world of photography today.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Image Sensor | 20.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor |
| Image Processor | DIGIC 5+ image processor |
| Autofocus | 19-point all-cross-type AF system |
| Continuous Shooting | 7fps |
| Video Recording | 1080p Full HD at 30fps |
The Canon 70D’s features and specifications make it an excellent choice for a wide range of photography applications, from portrait and landscape photography to sports and wildlife photography. Its advanced autofocus system, robust build quality, and excellent image quality make it a highly capable and versatile camera that is sure to meet the needs of even the most demanding photographers.
What are the key features of the Canon 70D?
The Canon 70D is a powerful DSLR camera that boasts an impressive array of features. At its core is a 20.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, which provides exceptional image quality and sensitivity. The camera also features Canon’s advanced DIGIC 5+ image processor, allowing for rapid processing and reduced noise. Additionally, the 70D includes a 19-point all-cross-type autofocus system, enabling fast and accurate subject tracking. This combination of features makes the 70D an ideal choice for photographers who demand high-quality images and advanced functionality.
The Canon 70D also includes a range of other features that enhance its versatility and usability. For example, the camera has a vari-angle 3-inch touchscreen LCD, which provides an intuitive interface for navigating menus and reviewing images. The 70D also supports full HD video recording at 1080p, with a range of frame rates and compression options. Furthermore, the camera includes built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to easily transfer images to their computer or mobile device. With its comprehensive feature set, the Canon 70D is well-suited to a wide range of applications, from portrait and landscape photography to sports and wildlife photography.
What are the improvements over the Canon 60D?
The Canon 70D represents a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the Canon 60D. One of the most notable improvements is the new 20.2-megapixel sensor, which provides a substantial increase in resolution and image quality. The 70D also features a more advanced autofocus system, with 19 cross-type points compared to the 60D’s 9 points. This enables faster and more accurate subject tracking, particularly in challenging lighting conditions. Additionally, the 70D has a faster burst mode, allowing users to capture up to 7 frames per second.
The Canon 70D also includes a range of other enhancements that improve its overall performance and usability. For example, the camera has a more advanced metering system, which provides more accurate exposure readings and reduced noise. The 70D also features improved weather sealing, with a range of gaskets and seals that protect the camera’s internal components from dust and moisture. Furthermore, the camera includes a new “Dual Pixel CMOS AF” system, which enables fast and accurate autofocus during video recording. With its range of improvements, the Canon 70D is a compelling upgrade for users of the 60D and other earlier Canon models.
What is the Dual Pixel CMOS AF system?
The Dual Pixel CMOS AF system is a revolutionary new technology developed by Canon, which enables fast and accurate autofocus during video recording. This system uses a unique sensor design, where each pixel is split into two photodiodes, one for capturing images and the other for phase-detection autofocus. This allows the camera to quickly and accurately determine the distance of subjects, enabling fast and smooth autofocus. The Dual Pixel CMOS AF system is particularly useful for video recording, where it enables the camera to track subjects quickly and accurately, even in challenging lighting conditions.
The Dual Pixel CMOS AF system has a range of benefits for videographers and photographers. For example, it enables fast and accurate subject tracking, reducing the need for manual focus adjustments. The system also provides a range of creative possibilities, such as the ability to create a shallow depth of field and a smooth, cinematic focus effect. Furthermore, the Dual Pixel CMOS AF system is compatible with a range of Canon lenses, making it a versatile and practical solution for a wide range of applications. With its advanced technology and range of benefits, the Dual Pixel CMOS AF system is a key feature of the Canon 70D.
Is the Canon 70D suitable for video recording?
The Canon 70D is an excellent choice for video recording, thanks to its range of advanced features and technologies. The camera’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, for example, enables fast and accurate autofocus during video recording, making it ideal for capturing smooth and professional-looking footage. The 70D also features full HD video recording at 1080p, with a range of frame rates and compression options. Additionally, the camera has a range of manual controls, including exposure compensation and audio level adjustment, which provide users with creative control over their video recordings.
The Canon 70D also includes a range of other features that enhance its video recording capabilities. For example, the camera has a built-in stereo microphone, which provides high-quality audio recording. The 70D also features a range of video recording modes, including a “Movie Servo AF” mode, which enables fast and accurate subject tracking. Furthermore, the camera includes a range of editing software, including Canon’s EOS Movie Utility, which provides users with a range of tools and effects for editing and enhancing their video recordings. With its advanced features and technologies, the Canon 70D is a powerful and versatile tool for videographers and photographers.
What are the benefits of the vari-angle touchscreen LCD?
The vari-angle touchscreen LCD on the Canon 70D provides a range of benefits for photographers and videographers. One of the most significant advantages is the ability to adjust the screen to a range of angles, making it easier to compose shots from unusual perspectives. The touchscreen interface also provides an intuitive and user-friendly way to navigate menus and adjust camera settings. Additionally, the LCD screen is highly responsive, allowing users to quickly and easily review and edit their images.
The vari-angle touchscreen LCD also provides a range of creative possibilities for photographers and videographers. For example, the screen can be adjusted to a low angle, making it easier to capture shots from a worm’s-eye view. The screen can also be adjusted to a high angle, making it easier to capture shots from above. Furthermore, the touchscreen interface provides a range of tools and features, including a “pinch-to-zoom” function, which enables users to quickly and easily review and edit their images. With its range of benefits and creative possibilities, the vari-angle touchscreen LCD is a key feature of the Canon 70D.
Is the Canon 70D compatible with a range of lenses and accessories?
The Canon 70D is compatible with a wide range of lenses and accessories, making it a versatile and practical choice for photographers and videographers. The camera is compatible with Canon’s EF and EF-S lenses, which provide a range of creative possibilities and applications. The 70D is also compatible with a range of accessories, including flash units, remote controls, and camera bags. Additionally, the camera has a range of mounting points, including a hot shoe and a tripod socket, which provide users with a range of options for attaching accessories and supports.
The Canon 70D’s compatibility with a range of lenses and accessories is a significant advantage for photographers and videographers. For example, the camera can be used with Canon’s range of L-series lenses, which provide exceptional image quality and durability. The 70D can also be used with a range of third-party lenses and accessories, which provide users with a range of creative possibilities and applications. Furthermore, the camera’s compatibility with a range of accessories, including flash units and remote controls, provides users with a range of tools and features for enhancing their photography and video recording. With its range of compatibility options, the Canon 70D is a powerful and versatile tool for a wide range of applications.