I don’t believe in posting about new products until the company releases information, so yes, what you are about to read are the real specs for the new Canon 7D.

This is not your typical mild Canon upgrade- it is absolutely PACKED with amazing new features. I’m not sure if this is a new line (between the 50D and 5D Series) or the replacement for the 50D, but probably targeting a new market. This would be a very interesting move if it is a new line, because it could possibly undermine 5DII sales. In terms of VIDEO features, Canon has the clear lead- for now. Look for Nikon to respond shortly (They will need to get at least 1080p for them to stay competitive on the video level). I love watching these two companies go at it. : ) The Canon 7D will be in stores this month.

Here is a run down on the up-grades:

– 18MP (1.6 sensor)
– 8 FPS (yes, 8!!), up to 120+ Bursts w JPG
– BUILT IN SPEEDLITE TRANSMITTER!!!! (No Need for an ST-E2!!)
– New and Improved 19 point Auto Focus System (its been 9 in the past) – Canon is looking to Match Nikon’s Focusing System
– New Metering System (They are calling it iFCL) Measures light and color.
– 100% View Finder – also allows for 1x Magnification
– Grid Selector (for view finder…not LCD!!)
– New & Improved LCD Monitor, Called Clear View II, incorporates anti-glare technology- Allows for 160 Degree viewing

Video Feature Upgrades-
– Full HD Video, 1080p, 720p and SD get this…at VARIABLE FRAME RATES!!! WOW- You are reading this right. You can shoot at 60, 50, 30, 25, or 24 frames per second with SD and 720P (not 1080p…yet) (This means you can shoot at a faster frame rate to achieve much better “slow motion” video when played back. Look for this feature to get faster and faster over time….240fps anyone? ☺ I wish!
– Manual Exposure Settings (as with 5DII firmware update)
– External Mic Jack (missing on the T1i)
– Audio Meters (!!) – Allows you to monitor audio signal coming into camera.

Other nice new Features:

– Dedicated Live View Button to switch between Stills and Video
– Quality button to access- JPEG / RAW settings
– Separation of Power switch from 2ndary Selector Wheel

🙂

Canon’s 7D Product Page