Is It Really Worth Buying a Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II for Really Cheap in 2019 for Portraits, Macros, Abstract and Occasional Street Photography?
When considering the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II, it's important to evaluate its current worth in the context of 2019 and its suitability for various photographic styles, particularly portraits, macros, abstract photography, and occasional street photography. This article aims to dissect the pros and cons of this classic camera, providing insights for both seasoned photographers and newcomers to the digital landscape.
Overview of the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II and Its Capabilities
The Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II was introduced in 2004 and discontinued in 2007, marking a significant transition period in digital photography. Despite its age, the camera retains much of its original appeal and capabilities, making it a valuable consideration for some photographers. Its 16.6 megapixel sensor, reliable performance, and handling make it a formidable tool for professional studios and reliable backups.
Comparing to Modern Cameras
Image Quality ISO Settings:
The camera's maximum ISO is 1600, which is sufficient for most photographic needs, especially in bright interiors or outdoors. With its composite DxO rating of 74, the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II offers competitive image quality at a price that can't be matched by newer models. Modern APS-C and Micro Four Thirds cameras now outperform it in this regard, but its image quality remains impressive for the price point.
Speed and Autofocus:
In terms of shooting speed, the camera is relatively slow, capable of 4.5 fps. This is comparable to the Canon 6D from 2012, making it a less useful option for professionals requiring rapid shooting. However, its autofocus was quite fast for its time, and while it has been surpassed by many modern cameras, its reliability is still a significant advantage.
Portraits and Macro Photography:
For portraits, the camera can certainly handle the task, although the choice of lens will largely determine the final result. Many professional photographers use this camera for its reliability and speed, with thousands of portraits taken with it available online for scrutiny. The dual-handle grip of the camera makes it manageable in both portrait and landscape modes.
In macro photography, the EOS-1Ds Mark II's limitations become more pronounced. Shooting off the tripod, the camera's size and weight (1.24 kg before the lens) make it less than ideal. While it is one of the most rugged cameras of its era, modern cameras with flip screens and in-body image stabilization can be more practical for handheld macro work. A more modern camera might also offer benefits like automatic focus bracketing and stacking, which are particularly useful in macro photography.
Conclusion: Is It Worth It?
For actual use, the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II offers significant value for its price. Its 16 megapixels, combined with its robust sensor, still produce great results for most photography needs, including portraits, macros, and street photography. The trade-off lies in its slower performance, particularly in shooting speed and modern autofocus technology.
When deciding whether to purchase the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II, it's essential to evaluate your current needs and budget. If you are looking for a durable, reliable camera with solid image quality at a relatively low cost, this model can be a worthwhile investment. For more demanding applications, such as professional sports or high-brightness interior photographs, a more modern camera might be more appropriate.
Further Reading
To delve deeper into the performance of the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II, you can explore a range of sample images from Dpreview, providing practical insights into its capabilities in real-world scenarios.