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Canon raises the bar with its DIGIC 4 image processor in the new EOS 50D Digital SLR

With enhanced performance and ease of use, Canon’s EOS 50D is the perfect balance of power and versatility for photography enthusiasts

The AF-SLR market is showing very robust growth which CIPA forecasts will exceed nine million units shipped this year — a 22 percent jump from last year. To meet this growing demand as well as maintain its leadership position in the advanced amateur segment which it pioneered, Canon announces the launch of the EOS 50D, which builds upon the success of the preceding model with greater performance, ease of use, and more advanced features designed to extend the capability and creativity of its user.

Improved Core Performance
At the heart of the improvements, Canon’s latest DIGIC 4 image processor debuts in the EOS 50D, offering high speed rendering of fine detail, natural colour reproduction, low noise and greater signal processing speed (1.3 times over DIGIC III). Beyond this, the DIGIC 4 also offers additional features that enhance camera performance and image quality, such as real-time face detection AF during Live View shooting, Auto Lighting Enhanced Optimizer which automatically corrects image exposure, automatic correction of lens vignetting and the convenience of HDMI output.

Another element where core performance has been enhanced is the EOS 50D’s newly-developed APS-C sized CMOS sensor that offers the highest image resolution in its class, at 15.1 megapixels; it also boasts an expanded ISO range from the previous model (H1:6400 and H2:12800).

To cope with the increased data stream of higher image resolution, the EOS 50D is compatible with UDMA (Ultra Direct Memory Access) CF cards which offer twice the data transfer speed over EOS 40D (predecessor model).

Empowerment through ease of use
The EOS 50D also sports a host of improvements in features and user interface such that the enhanced capability and potential of the EOS 50D is made so much more accessible to advanced users and enthusiasts alike.

Most apparent among these is the 3-inch VGA LCD screen, with a screen resolution of 920,000 pixels, four times the performance of the preceding model. Together with special coatings to reduce glare and resist smudging, picture review is now much easier and more precise.

In addition, the utility of the improved LCD screen is also fully maximized by the EOS 50D’s improved Live View shooting mode. Live View shooting affords added convenience and versatility by allowing the photographer to frame his shots using the built-in LCD screen in the manner of compact digital cameras, or a external screen when the camera is connected to a computer. In the EOS 50D, Live View shooting is comparatively more intuitive and convenient compared to earlier models as most menu operations and camera settings can now be accessed while in this mode, such as changing of shooting mode, image playback and selection of AF frame.

Even while advanced users will appreciate the highly sophisticated technologies and functions built into the EOS 50D, the novice user is not forgotten. By virtue of the new Creative Auto shooting mode which is readily accessible via the Mode Dial, novice photographers can now tweak camera settings with confidence through a simple menu, by selecting the desired picture attributes. Instead of grappling with exposure compensation or aperture values, in the Creative Auto mode, users simply decide whether they desire the background to be in focus or blurred out, whether the image should be bright or darkened, etc. with the camera taking care of the required settings.

A Lens to Match the EOS 50D’s versatility
Bundled with the EOS 50D is the ideal lens to match the DSLR’s power and versatility: the EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS. Featuring tremendous 11x zoom factor, this lens offers the 35mm format equivalent of focal lengths ranging from 29-320mm, which allows the photographer to capture sweeping vistas, extreme close-ups and everything else in between. High image quality at all focal lengths is ensured by the use of UD (Ultra-Low Dispersion) and high precision aspherical glass elements. Lens disposition and coatings are optimized to minimize the ghosting and flare.

Furthermore, this lens also significantly improves the EOS 50D’s low-light performance with its built-in Image Stabilization, which corrects camera shake for sharp images over a further 4 stops in shutter speed.

Canon ups the ante once again for professional photography with the EOS 50D, which will delight both professional and novice photographers with its superlative features and intuitive functions.

The EOS 50D and EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS will soon be available at authorized Canon Dealers. Stocks with Canon Philippines warranty are expected to hit the shelves by the end of September. The suggested retail price has not yet been disclosed by Canon Philippines. Stay tuned for the Canon 50D launch event.