Webcraft Loc: Fl

I have been considering upgrading my DSLR body from the canon t1i to the Canon 7D. The review of the 7D are excellent and all of my lenses are for the crop sensor. I could really use the faster processing speed. But is it worth the extra weight of over 200 grams.

When I switched from the 10D to the T1i it was an easy and worthwhile change. But is this upgrade worth the extra $$.

Thoughts??

DavidPhares Loc: Chandler, Arizona

The Canon 7D has proved its worth for years shooting the subjects it was designed to shoot, in the venues for which it was intended. The proper question for you is, "How will you be using the camera?"

Most serious 7D photographers use it for sports, and mount a good Canon "L" quality telephoto zoom. Once you have the processing speed (8 frames per second), you will want one of those lenses to maximize the features of that camera, and the lens you choose will likely cost you as much as the 7D did, if not a lot more. If you are not financially prepared to spring for one of those lenses, then you limit the use of the camera for which you bought it.

Example: in the Phoenix market a good used Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 IS L lens sells for around $1400, give or take a hundred. That's right around the MSRP for a new 7D. (That lens on the 7D gives you a 112-320mm view) Match that lens to a 7D and you have an excellent sports set up.

So, what are you going to use the camera for, and how much can you afford to maximize the functionality of the 7D?

I shoot for Arizona State University Baseball, and I use that lens (mounted on a 5D Mk III body) and I love it. However, I just ordered one of the new Tamron SP 150-600mm VC lenses, so we shall see.

Good luck, and be sure to post back here with your final course of action.

Sample photo shot with Canon 70-200mm f/2.8 IS lens, post processed

RichardSM Loc: Back in Texas

[quote=ccaweber]I have been considering upgrading my DSLR body from the canon t1i to the Canon 7D. The review of the 7D are excellent and all of my lenses are for the crop sensor. I could really use the faster processing speed. But is it worth the extra weight of over 200 grams.

When I switched from the 10D to the T1i it was an easy and worthwhile change. But is this upgrade worth the extra $$.

Thoughts??[/quote

Hello ccaweber

I my self shoot the 7D it's a great camera with out a doubt. I use L lenses. Yes this camera can be used for sports it also can be used as a single shot camera as well it's a very versatile camera by far. You won't be unhappy if you purchase one just take your time with it spend the time and read the manual.

amehta Loc: Boston

The 7D came out about the same time as the T1i, so you aren't getting the benefit of new technology in the past 5 years. The 70D came out last year, and it fits on the shelf between the T1i and the 7D in the Canon lineup. A new 70D is $200 cheaper than a new 7D, so perhaps the 70D would be a better choice for you?

Webcraft Loc: Fl

That is a good suggestion . I will check out that body to see if it fits the bill. Thanks

Webcraft Loc: Fl

That is a good suggestion . I will check out that body to see if it fits the bill. Thanks

haroldross Loc: Walthill, Nebraska

The 7D would be a great upgrade to the T1i. That being said, the newer 70D would be a better upgrade.

The 7D, even though it is 5 years old, still is a formidable camera. It is considerably heavier than the T1i or 70D. The 70D has a much refined autofocus system especially for video, it has the flip out screen and is packed with new technology.

DavidPhares Loc: Chandler, Arizona

I agree with the advantages of the 70D over a 7D, and if funds are an issue, would suggest you look a lightly used 60D which you can now pick up for about $500.

Webcraft Loc: Fl

I just did a little reading and I would agree that the 70 D would be a better fit. I don't necessarily need the video but I have used it on the T1i and it is minimal at best. The new technology is a plus and the weight is a clincher.

Thanks for all the input. Chris

amehta Loc: Boston

Most of us don't need the video, but when the situation arises, it is nice to be able to shoot 1080p with quality as good as or better than any consumer camcorder. :-)

Enjoy!

DavidPhares Loc: Chandler, Arizona

The 70D is a better choice for you.

Swamp Gator Loc: Coastal South Carolina

What do you mostly shoot? If it's sports or wildlife action I would still go for the 7D despite it's age.
If you plan to shoot mostly general walking around stuff then you can get pretty much anything.

lukan Loc: Chicago, IL

:thumbup:

Tom S. Loc: Hillsboro, Ore.

Consider your needs, compare the specs, and then make your choice. Before you buy, check out the pricing for factory refurbished units. Pricing will usually be about halfway between used and new, you get a guarantee and I believe the quality control is higher on refurb units. I moved up recently from a 10D, and bought a refurbished 7D w/only 4,600 clicks and a refurb EF 70-200mm f/2.8 IS L lens. Both look and work like new and I saved a lot of money.

http://snapsort.com/compare/Canon-EOS-70D-vs-Canon_EOS_7D/specs

DavidPhares Loc: Chandler, Arizona

Amen on the lens.