Canon recently announced the new Canon EOS Rebel T2i (550D) as the latest addition to its range. The T2i is widely seen as a replacement for the Canon EOS Rebel T1i (500D) which was only released in 2009. IT continues the trend by dslr manufacturers to pack more of the features and technologies of professional cameras into the consumer end products.
In this post we’ll take a look at the key features of this new addition to the Canon range.
18Mp CMOS Sensor & Improved DIGIC 4 processor
This size of sensor take a big leap on from the 12.2MP that was in the 450d. This new sensor from Canon means you have the ability to be able to crop images much more without losing quality/size. Printing large posters or prints becomes much easier. Perhaps the best advantage this new sensor brings is the improved low light performance thanks to the DIGIC 4 sensor.
ISO Performance
ISO performance is always a key benchmark to look for in new cameras. The 550D’s ISO range will be 100-6400 and expandable up to 12800. This huge range (along with the enhanced on board noise reduction) means much better performance in low light conditions. In addition you can set the maximum ISO to use if you are shooting in auto ISO mode.
Full HD Video Capture
Since it’s introduction on the Canon 5d Mk II Canon has gradually been adding this functionality onto it’s new models. The 550D will record full 1920 x 1080p HD resolution video at up to 30fps, much better than the sometimes jerky 20fps on the Canon EOS Rebel T1i (500D) it replaces.
Drop down to 720p and you can shoot at up to 60 fps. Also a nice feature is the ability to plug in an external mic, enabling you to capture the best possible sound. The camera also has an HDMI connection allowing you to playback photos or video on an HDTV with minimal fuss.
Another nice addition is the movie crop feature. This allows you to shoot video using only the center part of the sensor, magnifying you subjects by about 7 times! This is perfect for when your subjects are a long way away and you can’t change to a telephoto lens.
LCD Display
As you’d expect the LCD display on the 550D is bigger and brighter than ever. Measuring 7.7cm it boasts a 3:2 ratio allowing you to preview your shots in the true ratio. The 1040k resolution screen displays vivid colors making previewing your shots on camera a pleasure.
Additional Usability
One great little feature is the new “Q” button on the back that allows you to access the quick control screen which contains your most used controls. A simple but very slick addition.
This camera follows in the footsteps of the 7D and allows you up to 5 stops up or down of exposure compensation, great for making sure you get the perfect exposure and simply awesome for the HDR lover!
Another great addition is the compatibility with Eye-Fi memory cards. Replace one of your regular SD cards with and Eye-Fi card and you can transfer pictures from camera to computer directly using wifi, no need for any leads whatsoever, you don’t even need to remove your card from your camera.
Available for less that $800 on Amazon this camera is sure to be a hit.
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