Canon has announced a new full-frame DSLR, the EOS 6D, a smaller, lighter and cheaper version of Canon's popular EOS 5D Mk III. Key features include 11-point autofocus, 63-zone metering, 1080p Full HD video, continuous shooting at up to 4.5 frames per second (fps), and built-in Wi-Fi and GPS.
Similar in size and weight to the EOS 60D, Canon claims the 20.2-megapixel 60D is the lightest full-frame DSLR in the world. The new model will be priced between the EOS 7D and the EOS 5D Mark III.
“The EOS 6D opens up the advantages of full-frame photography to a less involved audience by offering an easier-to-use full-frame camera in a more compact and lightweight body, meaning they can upgrade with ease and enjoy the benefits of Canon full-frame photography," said Chris Macleod, Brand Manager - Canon EOS, Canon Australia.
The combination of full-frame sensor and DiG!C 5+ image processor, allows for an ISO range of 100-25,600, expandable to 50-102,400. On the back of the camera is a large optical viewfinder and a 3.0-inch Clear View LCD monitor with 1,040,000-dot resolution and 170-degree viewing angle.
In movie mode, the EOS 6D can record 1080p video with full manual control over exposure and audio levels. NTSC and PAL video modes are available at multiple frame rates, recording 1080p at 30 (29.97), 24 (23.976) and 25 fps, 720p at 60 (59.94) and 50 fps and standard video at 30 (29.97) and 25 fps. The camera can record up to 29 minutes and 59 seconds of continuous recording and the full-frame sensor offers a wide degree of creative control over depth-of-field.
The camera's built-in Wi-Fi transmitter allows the camera to share images and video with smartphones, as well as cloud-based destinations and social networking sites. A free app for iOS and Android systems allows users to remotely control the camera with a smartphone or tablet. Wi-Fi can also be used for direct wireless printing.
GPS is also built in, allowing the camera to record longitude, latitude, elevation and time. GPS coordinates are appended to each image so they can be sorted and mapped by shooting location.
The EOS 6D will be sold in kit form with a Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM zoom lens or in body-only configuration. Both configurations are expected to be available from the beginning of December, 2012. Canon no longer reveals camera prices, saying only that "pricing is set at dealer discretion".
