By: Camera House Resident Photographer
Submitted: 10 Nov 10, 3:23PM
Released in February 2010 the EOS 550D is Canon’s latest entry level camera to hit the DSLR market. Positioned between the 500D and the 50D, the 550D is a great camera for the photo enthusiast that wants to get a little more serious with their photography.
Starting with a whopping 18 megapixel CMOS sensor (the highest resolution in its class) and Canon’s DiG!C 4 image processor, the EOS 550D delivers super high image quality making it simple to capture clear sharp images with true to life colours.
The EOS 550D also features advanced ISO capabilities with a range of ISO 100-6400 (up to ISO 12800), providing users with more creative control, especially in low light situations.
Advanced intuitive image correction technologies and a slew of Auto features assist the less experienced user in delivering great shots whilst more advanced shooters can switch over to manual for greater control.
The 550D also features EOS Movie (FULL 1920x1080p High Definition (HD) movie recording) with a new ‘Movie Crop’ feature and high-quality imaging attributes.
While the EOS 550D is part of Canon’s entry level range it is a very advanced camera.
Armed with a 3.0-inch Clear View Wide LCD (1, 040,000 dot) screen that’s perfect for framing shots on the go, the EOS 550D is equipped with a precision 9-point AF system and is capable of shooting 3.7fps (up to 34 continuous shooting: JPEG). Auto Lighting Optimiser, Peripheral Illumination Correction and Highlight Tone Priority assist the shooter in optimising their shots for professional results.
Compatible with the EF system lens, the EOS 550D is a great camera for someone that plans a lifelong journey with photography.
The 18-200mm kit delivers a superbly versatile EF lens that should deliver good results for a variety of shooting situations from group photos to portraits to sports shots.
Good: 18 megapixel resolution for clear bright images. Capable of shooting in low light with great results. Shoots full HD movies.
Bad: Although classed as entry level – this is not for the amateur, the EOS 550D is also quite pricey in this lens configuration...