Canon EOS 30D - Expert Reviews

Verdict: I've been shooting with an EOS 20D since it was introduced in the fall of 2004 and I've been very happy with it. I expected the EOS 30D to be essentially the same and in many ways it is, though I have to admit that it is a nicer camera to use.

Award: Highly Recommended!

Review summary: The model line in which the EOS 30D sits has seen a total of five models, each offering either an upgrade in features, resolution or both. From the EOS D30 to D60 we saw a doubling in megapixel count as well as numerous feature upgrades, from the EOS ...

Pros: Excellent resolution, very good per-pixel sharpness, Good tonal and color response, same as EOS 20D 'Parameter 1' in Standard PS, Now with four metering modes, spot metering very welcome, Trademark Canon CMOS noise free images, remain detailed even at ...

Cons: Average automatic white balance performance, still very poor under incandescent light, AI Servo (continuous AF) interference banding issue (certain lenses, high sensitivities), Same old 'CF compartment door shuts camera down' issue, Picture Style ...

Verdict: Maybe Canon do listen, with the i EOS 30D they have addressed no less than five of the 'Cons' from my EOS 20D review; Lack of spot metering, Fixed continuous shooting rate, Limited range of image parameter adjustment, Small LCD monitor and ISO ...

Review summary: Beyond the 20D with a big-screened son of a gun.

Pros: Excellent low-light performance ; fast and responsive ; straightforward controls ; nice balance of features for both experienced and rookie photographers

Cons: Pop-up flash casts shadow with some lenses ; viewfinder provides only 95 per cent view ; average battery life ; 1.6x lens-conversion factor

Verdict: The 8-megapixel Canon EOS 30D should definitely be on your shortlist if you're thinking about buying a semipro dSLR camera

Pros: Excellent low-light performance; fast and responsive; straightforward controls; nice balance of features for both experienced and rookie photographers

Cons: Pop-up flash casts shadow with some lenses; average battery life

Verdict: I accidentally shot this photo at ISO 3,200, but thanks to the EOS 30D's excellent noise performance, I was still able to produce a satisfying print at 13x19.