Michael A. Coates

Buying a new Camera

I knew I needed a second video camera, it was just a matter of what.  The candidates were in REVERSE order of preference – Canon T3i, Canon 7D, Canon 5D mark II – The latest ‘creep down’ prices were round about $900 – $1,500 – $2,700 CDN respectively.  However, last week, there was a sudden price drop in the 5D mkII – $2,000. 

With the present 5D, now in it’s 3rd year, the Canon related forums are currently ripe with rumours of a replacement speculating it will be either a 5D mark III or perhaps a 6D. Was the sudden price cut a way for dealers to empty their shelves to make room for a new model? Either way, I didn’t care.  I listed all the improvements/upgrades Canon could possibly add to the next generation 5D – things such as more flexible video options – more megapixels or more focus points, but with an anticipated list price of around $3,000, the present and proven mark II was a slam-dunk deal at $2,000.  No regrets, the full frame is wonderful.