Canon has introduced the new 21.1-megapixel, ultra-high-resolution EOS-1Ds Mark III SLR. Designed with a ultra-low-noise CMOS sensor, the camera is fast and responsive, with a new ultra-wide-angle 14mm lens that fits perfectly with the full frame sensor. The compact camera has an alloy body, making it light in weight, versatile, and ideal for studio and field work.
For professional photographers, the five-frame-per-second shooting rate allows for a maximum of either 56 large/fine, 21-megapixel JPEGs or 12 RAW images, capturing fluid motion and free-flowing lines. The camera offers a full-size 36 x 24 mm CMOS image sensor for precision resolution at 21.1 million pixels. Six recording formats — including 21 megapixels in large JPEG or RAW format; 16.6 or 11 megapixels in the two medium sizes; and 5.2 megapixels in the small JPEG or "sRaw" formats — give the photographer a range of options. In any of the JPEG formats, the user can choose one of 10 compression rates for varying image sizes.
To achieve the level of ultra-low noise, Canon designed the new 1Ds Mark III with two identical Digic III imaging engines inside the camera for parallel signal processing. The CMOS sensor reads out to the processor in eight channels.
The Digic III uses new technology, allowing for precise details and recording of natural image coloring.
The autofocus system offers 45 AF points, 19 high-precision cross-type points and 26 assist AF points. For optimal performance, the AF sensor features EV-1 for double the amount of low light sensitivity.
One of the highlights of the new camera is the live-view shooting mode that allows for an expanded set of shooting options — more than the view provided by the optical viewfinder. The new live view, at its peak when doing tripod shooting, has 100 percent field of view and the ability to compose the image more easily on the 230,000-pixel, three-inch LED screen. The feature has the option of delayed shutter-charge send and the ability to lift the reflex mirror out of the optical path in advance of exposure to improve image quality at slow shutter speed.
To block bright sunlight, the camera features a TFT color liquid-crystal monitor with seven brightness levels and a 140-degree wide viewing angle. The three-inch screen makes settings and menu options easily visible. An added feature of the EOS Integrated Cleaning System eliminates dust, a first in the professional digital SLR at this level. The body of the camera is distinctively designed using magnesium alloy for durability and strength of the frame. The internal chassis and mirror box are protected by the body and stand up to harsh weather conditions.
Additionally, the 1Ds Mark III is compatible with Canon's new Picture Style Editor 1.0 software. The program lets photographers input their own preferred image processing parameters and custom tone curves.
The new Canon EF 14mm f/2.8L II USM Lens is designed uniquely for the 1Ds Mark III. The lens measures 3.7 inches in length and weighs only 23 ounces. With a 114-degree diagonal angle of view, the ultra-wide-angle L series delivers high-speed autofocus with improved image quality.
The EOS-1Ds Mark III SLR sells for an estimated price of $7,999.