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A full Canon EOS 1D X review is planned.
In the meantime, please enjoy this first looks review based on
information provided by Canon as well as my short experience with a
preproduction Canon EOS 1D X.
Unfortunately, the CompactFlash card door was sealed on this 1D X, so I
have not had access to actual images from which to assess image quality.
And then there was one - one Canon EOS 1-Series DSLR body.
The "1" means top-of-the-line, as-good-as-it-gets, #1, you're-going-to-love-it. The "D" means "Digital". And the "X" represents the "crossover" that has taken place - representing the merging of two product lines - the 1D and the 1Ds lines. The "X" also represents the Roman numeral 10, representing the 10th generation of Canon pro cameras - starting with the F1 of the 70s. Or eXtreme.
Canon 1-Series bodies have long been an ultimate choice for professional and enthusiast photographers of all levels and pursuits, with price typically excluding less-serious photographers from ownership. Professional and enthusiast photographers, historically (since the digital era) have chosen between the 1D and 1Ds lines - or they have owned both. Most recently, sports and action photographers most frequently have chosen the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV because of its fast 10 fps frame rate, while portrait, architecture and landscape photographers, along with anyone else requiring ultimate resolution and/or a large full frame sensor, have most frequently chosen the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III.
I have been part of the latter group, though I regularly used my 1Ds III bodies for sports - because I love the shallow depth of field look it gives my sports images. As I begin writing the first looks segment of the Canon EOS 1D X review, my first 1Ds Mark III body is 3 days beyond its 4th birthday. I love this camera, but there are a lot of new features available on other Canon EOS DSLR cameras that the 1Ds III does not have - and that I have been desirous of.
In my Dec 23, 2010 What I Want from Canon for Christmas news/blog post, I requested a Canon EOS 1Ds Mark IV with "... the latest DSLR features (horizon level, better LCD, HD video ...) to be added to it. Increase the resolution and frame rate too."
As the dust settled on the long-anticipated full frame sensor format Canon EOS 1D X DSLR announcement, I was repeatedly being asked the question "Are you excited about the new Canon EOS 1D X?" The ONLY reason my excitement was being questioned was because the 1D X has fewer pixels than the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III it replaces.
As I said before, I have personally chosen the 1Ds III over the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV as my primary camera because of the full frame sensor format advantage and the higher resolution it delivered. Otherwise, I consider the 1D IV a better camera overall.
So, the 1D X retains the full frame sensor I strongly want but gives up 3mp of resolution. And yes, I will probably be able to notice that difference. Here is an example (use the mouseover feature) of what this difference is going to look like - though the 1D X should be considerably sharper than the 60D. But the reality is, that at this resolution, 3mp is not a great amount. And the quality of the pixels matter. With the promise of impressive pixel-level image quality, the trade-off will likely be even less than it first appears. Again, reference the difference in pixel-level image quality between the 1Ds III and the 60D in the example provided.
So, even if I don't gain my wish-list line item resolution upgrade with the 1D X, I do not expect to lose anything of significance in this regard. Looking beyond resolution, at the additional features I gain, makes it easy to say that March 2012 (the 1D X scheduled release date) will be a long wait for me and that at least one 1D X will definitely become part of my kit.
I am simply drooling over the 12fps frame rate. Better LCD, incredibly high ISO settings, improved self-cleaning sensor, impressive new AF system, built-in electronic level, better auto white balance, vastly improved auto exposure, HD video ... the entire list of feature improvements is huge. The significanly-lower-than-the-1Ds-III's-market-entry-price-tag is also greatly appreciated. The 1Ds III was $8,000 while the 1D X is estimated to hit the streets at $6,800.
1D owners will have the blazingly fast frame rate (faster than any 1D before) they need and all will have the advantage of the large full frame sensor's low light performance along with all of the other advantages this most-advanced-to-date DSLR offers. I will delve into these advantages in this Canon EOS 1D X review, but first, I want to point out a couple of potential downsides for 1D Mark IV body owners looking to upgrade.
First, the new Canon EOS 1D X, unlike previous 1-Series DSLRs, will not autofocus when using lenses or lens combinations with an f/8 max aperture. Chuck Westfall (Canon USA), through Arthur Morris, confirms this: "AF is unavailable on the EOS-1D X if the maximum aperture reported to the camera through the electronic lens mount is smaller than f/5.6."
This is of course disappointing to many extender users. Canon does not currently have a bare lens with a max aperture narrower than f/5.6, but adding a 1.4x extender to an f/5.6 max aperture lens results in an f/8 max aperture lens that will no longer AF. And, adding a 2x extender to an f/4 max aperture lens results in an f/8 max aperture lens that again will not AF.
The largest group of photographers affected by this change are, probably, bird photographers (such as Arthur Morris) - who have been dealt a double blow with the 1D X. Bird photography typically needs the most reach possible - through both lens focal length and sensor density. Increasing focal length via extenders has now been limited (for autofocus to function) and the 1D X has a less-dense sensor than either of the previous 1-Series models.
Otherwise, the Canon EOS 1D X looks amazing. It is characteristic for Canon to list what they feel are the key specifications for a new DSLR. Here are the Canon EOS 1D X key specifications from Canon's perspective.
Key specifications
And then there was one - one Canon EOS 1-Series DSLR body.
The "1" means top-of-the-line, as-good-as-it-gets, #1, you're-going-to-love-it. The "D" means "Digital". And the "X" represents the "crossover" that has taken place - representing the merging of two product lines - the 1D and the 1Ds lines. The "X" also represents the Roman numeral 10, representing the 10th generation of Canon pro cameras - starting with the F1 of the 70s. Or eXtreme.
Canon 1-Series bodies have long been an ultimate choice for professional and enthusiast photographers of all levels and pursuits, with price typically excluding less-serious photographers from ownership. Professional and enthusiast photographers, historically (since the digital era) have chosen between the 1D and 1Ds lines - or they have owned both. Most recently, sports and action photographers most frequently have chosen the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV because of its fast 10 fps frame rate, while portrait, architecture and landscape photographers, along with anyone else requiring ultimate resolution and/or a large full frame sensor, have most frequently chosen the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III.
I have been part of the latter group, though I regularly used my 1Ds III bodies for sports - because I love the shallow depth of field look it gives my sports images. As I begin writing the first looks segment of the Canon EOS 1D X review, my first 1Ds Mark III body is 3 days beyond its 4th birthday. I love this camera, but there are a lot of new features available on other Canon EOS DSLR cameras that the 1Ds III does not have - and that I have been desirous of.
In my Dec 23, 2010 What I Want from Canon for Christmas news/blog post, I requested a Canon EOS 1Ds Mark IV with "... the latest DSLR features (horizon level, better LCD, HD video ...) to be added to it. Increase the resolution and frame rate too."
As the dust settled on the long-anticipated full frame sensor format Canon EOS 1D X DSLR announcement, I was repeatedly being asked the question "Are you excited about the new Canon EOS 1D X?" The ONLY reason my excitement was being questioned was because the 1D X has fewer pixels than the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III it replaces.
As I said before, I have personally chosen the 1Ds III over the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV as my primary camera because of the full frame sensor format advantage and the higher resolution it delivered. Otherwise, I consider the 1D IV a better camera overall.
So, the 1D X retains the full frame sensor I strongly want but gives up 3mp of resolution. And yes, I will probably be able to notice that difference. Here is an example (use the mouseover feature) of what this difference is going to look like - though the 1D X should be considerably sharper than the 60D. But the reality is, that at this resolution, 3mp is not a great amount. And the quality of the pixels matter. With the promise of impressive pixel-level image quality, the trade-off will likely be even less than it first appears. Again, reference the difference in pixel-level image quality between the 1Ds III and the 60D in the example provided.
So, even if I don't gain my wish-list line item resolution upgrade with the 1D X, I do not expect to lose anything of significance in this regard. Looking beyond resolution, at the additional features I gain, makes it easy to say that March 2012 (the 1D X scheduled release date) will be a long wait for me and that at least one 1D X will definitely become part of my kit.
I am simply drooling over the 12fps frame rate. Better LCD, incredibly high ISO settings, improved self-cleaning sensor, impressive new AF system, built-in electronic level, better auto white balance, vastly improved auto exposure, HD video ... the entire list of feature improvements is huge. The significanly-lower-than-the-1Ds-III's-market-entry-price-tag is also greatly appreciated. The 1Ds III was $8,000 while the 1D X is estimated to hit the streets at $6,800.
1D owners will have the blazingly fast frame rate (faster than any 1D before) they need and all will have the advantage of the large full frame sensor's low light performance along with all of the other advantages this most-advanced-to-date DSLR offers. I will delve into these advantages in this Canon EOS 1D X review, but first, I want to point out a couple of potential downsides for 1D Mark IV body owners looking to upgrade.
First, the new Canon EOS 1D X, unlike previous 1-Series DSLRs, will not autofocus when using lenses or lens combinations with an f/8 max aperture. Chuck Westfall (Canon USA), through Arthur Morris, confirms this: "AF is unavailable on the EOS-1D X if the maximum aperture reported to the camera through the electronic lens mount is smaller than f/5.6."
This is of course disappointing to many extender users. Canon does not currently have a bare lens with a max aperture narrower than f/5.6, but adding a 1.4x extender to an f/5.6 max aperture lens results in an f/8 max aperture lens that will no longer AF. And, adding a 2x extender to an f/4 max aperture lens results in an f/8 max aperture lens that again will not AF.
The largest group of photographers affected by this change are, probably, bird photographers (such as Arthur Morris) - who have been dealt a double blow with the 1D X. Bird photography typically needs the most reach possible - through both lens focal length and sensor density. Increasing focal length via extenders has now been limited (for autofocus to function) and the 1D X has a less-dense sensor than either of the previous 1-Series models.
Otherwise, the Canon EOS 1D X looks amazing. It is characteristic for Canon to list what they feel are the key specifications for a new DSLR. Here are the Canon EOS 1D X key specifications from Canon's perspective.
Key specifications
- 18.1 Megapixel, Full-frame CMOS sensor
- 61-point AF with up to 41 cross-type AF points
- Zone, Spot and AF Expansion Focusing modes
- DUAL "DIGIC 5+" processors plus DIGIC 4 processor dedicated to AE functions
- 12fps shooting with 14fps super High Speed continuous
- ISO 100 to 51,200 as standard, ISO 50 to 204,800 with expansion
- 100,000-pixel RGB AE sensor
- +/- 5 Stop Exposure Compensation
- 55ms shutter lag, 36ms via 'Shortened Release Lag' Custom Function
- Full HD Movie shooting with ALL-I or IPB compression
- 29mins 59sec clip length in Full HD Movie
- Timecode setting for HD Movie shooting
- Transparent LCD viewfinder with new focusing screen
- 8.11cm (3.2"), 1.04 million pixel Clear View II LCD Screen
- Improved EOS Integrated Cleaning System (EICS)
- Dual CF Card slots
- Silent control touch-pad area
- Full-frame CMOS sensor
As usual for my Canon EOS DSLR camera reviews, I will start the Canon EOS 1D X review with a look at the
sensor and the image quality it delivers (or is expected to deliver)
As I already discussed, the 1D X gets a full frame sensor, but delivers a slightly lower resolution than the 1Ds (and the much lower-priced 5D Mark II). But the 1D X's sensor has some clear advantages over these older cameras' sensors. Capturing all of the light reaching the sensor is the first order of business for a sensor, and the 1D X CMOS sensor is the first Canon full frame sensor to make use of gapless microlens technology to insure that all light is directed into a pixel well. The 1D X has 21% larger pixels and which are now much thinner - bringing the photodiodes closer to the sensor surface. There is basically no change in the low-pass filter from previous models. These improvements should be noticeably reflected in the 1D X's image quality.
Converting the captured light becomes the next order of business. The 1D X sensor deploys new photodiode construction that results in an improved photoelectric conversion rate and, along with improved transistors inside the pixels, a better signal-to-noise ratio. These improvements, along with advancements in image processing algorithms, promise a wider dynamic range, reduced noise, reduced moiré patterning and false color - which equate to better overall image quality.
The 1D X sensor requires 16-channel readout (with two-vertical-pixel simultaneous readout - 1.4x faster than the 1D IV's) to attain its highest-available frame per second rate of 14. Great things are promised by native ISO settings of 100 through an incredible 51,200 and extended ISO settings of 50 through 204,800 enabled via a Custom Function.
As I've said earlier in this review, I have not been able to personally evaluate the 1D X's image quality to date. I highly doubt that I will want to use the 1D X's highest settings for anything even remotely important, but Canon is saying to expect 2 stops of noise improvement over the already very good EOS 1D Mark IV. Unfortunately, you will need to shoot in JPEG format to see the full 2 stop advantage. RAW performance is definitely improved, but the significant processing power in this camera and the algorithms it uses are apparently able to deliver better in-camera noise reduction. I'm not expecting to change my workflow from RAW to JPEG due to this better in-camera processing, but I do expect to see improvements in the RAW image quality and very much look forward to such.
With dual DIGIC 5+ processors and a DIGIC IV processor, the Canon EOS 1D
X is a computing powerhouse.
DIGIC 5+ processors deliver 3x faster image processing performance than
the DIGIC 5 processor and
17x faster image processing performance than the DIGIC IV processor.
In comparison, the 1D IV has a pair of DIGIC IV processors - which have
approximately six times more processing power than each of the two DIGIC
III processors
found in the 1Ds III.
It is hard to wrap one's mind around the 1D X's computing performance
improvement over its predecessors.
As I already mentioned, the high-performance processors allow improved high ISO noise reduction (without a reduction in frame rate or burst depth). This processing power also enables improved image quality in additional ways. In addition to Peripheral Illumination Correction, the 1D X now features in-camera Chromatic Aberration Correction, removing color fringing and halos around high contrast edges.
The 1D X's processing power is also used for improved image quality in relation to white balance, Automatic Picture Style (new), autofocus, exposure and Auto Lighting Optimizer. The DIGIC 4 processor is utilized exclusively in conjunction with a new 100,000-pixel RGB Metering Sensor and EOS intelligent Subject Analysis System (EOS iSA System) that analyses the color, brightness, motion, contrast and distance information of a scene. The 252 metering zones (the 1D IV has 63) along with new subject/scene recognition capabilities (including color and face detection) are going to make an obvious difference in most/all auto image quality settings - including auto flash exposures.
The new Auto Picture Style is said to be especially effective with nature and landscape images (including those taken at sunset). I currently shoot in the Neutral Picture Style because of the low-contrast histogram it gives me, but look forward to trying APS.
Auto Lighting Optimizer (ALO) is improved with the promise of "better results when shooting sunsets, highly saturated scenes or scenes with highlights that could be easily over-exposed".
The advantage I most look forward to with the EOS iSA System is improved auto white balance accuracy. The 1Ds Mark III AWB turns in a very red/orange/yellow tone under low color temperature light sources such as common tungsten lights. Canon made big AWB improvements with the Canon EOS 7D, and I expect the 1D X to best the 7D's capabilities. Noticeable AWB improvements are said to have been made for portrait or sunset scenes.
Low light exposure improvements should also be noticed as the 1D X shifts down to using 35 zones to more accurately read low light situations.
A new imaging option enabled by the DIGIC 5+ processors is the ability to shoot multiple exposures, stacking between two and nine separate frames to create one signal final image. Stacking settings available are Additive (like Multi-Exposure with film cameras - requires each frame to be underexposed), Average (automatically underexposes images for stacking), (Comparative) Bright (emphasizes bright areas) and (Comparative) Dark (eliminates bright areas).
When I first read "multiple exposures", my mind immediately jumped to in-camera HDR - and I got excited. Only to be disappointed as HDR is not an ME option. Reality is that I do not see myself ever using the 1D X multiple exposure feature.
Sensor dust is a big detriment to image quality - I have spent a huge number of hours removing sensor dust from my images. Canon has made many advances in self-cleaning sensor technology since the 1Ds Mark III was introduced and I anxiously wait for these advances to land in my daily-use DSLR. The 1D X EICS (EOS Integrated Cleaning System) unit is more advanced than any previous unit - now using Ultrasonic Carrier Wave Motion Cleaning to roll (instead of scattering) dust particles down the anti-dust Fluorine coated filters in front of the CMOS sensor.
As I already mentioned, the high-performance processors allow improved high ISO noise reduction (without a reduction in frame rate or burst depth). This processing power also enables improved image quality in additional ways. In addition to Peripheral Illumination Correction, the 1D X now features in-camera Chromatic Aberration Correction, removing color fringing and halos around high contrast edges.
The 1D X's processing power is also used for improved image quality in relation to white balance, Automatic Picture Style (new), autofocus, exposure and Auto Lighting Optimizer. The DIGIC 4 processor is utilized exclusively in conjunction with a new 100,000-pixel RGB Metering Sensor and EOS intelligent Subject Analysis System (EOS iSA System) that analyses the color, brightness, motion, contrast and distance information of a scene. The 252 metering zones (the 1D IV has 63) along with new subject/scene recognition capabilities (including color and face detection) are going to make an obvious difference in most/all auto image quality settings - including auto flash exposures.
The new Auto Picture Style is said to be especially effective with nature and landscape images (including those taken at sunset). I currently shoot in the Neutral Picture Style because of the low-contrast histogram it gives me, but look forward to trying APS.
Auto Lighting Optimizer (ALO) is improved with the promise of "better results when shooting sunsets, highly saturated scenes or scenes with highlights that could be easily over-exposed".
The advantage I most look forward to with the EOS iSA System is improved auto white balance accuracy. The 1Ds Mark III AWB turns in a very red/orange/yellow tone under low color temperature light sources such as common tungsten lights. Canon made big AWB improvements with the Canon EOS 7D, and I expect the 1D X to best the 7D's capabilities. Noticeable AWB improvements are said to have been made for portrait or sunset scenes.
Low light exposure improvements should also be noticed as the 1D X shifts down to using 35 zones to more accurately read low light situations.
A new imaging option enabled by the DIGIC 5+ processors is the ability to shoot multiple exposures, stacking between two and nine separate frames to create one signal final image. Stacking settings available are Additive (like Multi-Exposure with film cameras - requires each frame to be underexposed), Average (automatically underexposes images for stacking), (Comparative) Bright (emphasizes bright areas) and (Comparative) Dark (eliminates bright areas).
When I first read "multiple exposures", my mind immediately jumped to in-camera HDR - and I got excited. Only to be disappointed as HDR is not an ME option. Reality is that I do not see myself ever using the 1D X multiple exposure feature.
Sensor dust is a big detriment to image quality - I have spent a huge number of hours removing sensor dust from my images. Canon has made many advances in self-cleaning sensor technology since the 1Ds Mark III was introduced and I anxiously wait for these advances to land in my daily-use DSLR. The 1D X EICS (EOS Integrated Cleaning System) unit is more advanced than any previous unit - now using Ultrasonic Carrier Wave Motion Cleaning to roll (instead of scattering) dust particles down the anti-dust Fluorine coated filters in front of the CMOS sensor.
Critical to good image quality is accurate autofocus.
Canon concedes that "Autofocus systems in general have reached a point where they have plateaued in performance."
And they set out to break the barriers.
From the Canon EOS 1D X AF system description details, it appears that they have succeeded.
"The EOS-1D X includes a brand new 61-Point High Density Reticular AF, the most sophisticated DSLR AF system Canon has ever released."
"To achieve the goal of optimum AF in diverse situations and lighting conditions, the EOS-1D X makes use of far more than just an autofocus sensor, as previous cameras have done. Instead data is collected from the 61-point AF sensor, the auto exposure sensors, an AF correction light-source detection sensor and, with certain lenses, a panning detection gyro sensor. While these sensors provide a benefit to One-Shot AF shooting, the major benefit is found with AI Servo, where they can help identify the subject by not only contrast, but also color."
The images below show the 1D X AF point layout along with that of several other Canon EOS DSLRs.
"The EOS-1D X includes a brand new 61-Point High Density Reticular AF, the most sophisticated DSLR AF system Canon has ever released."
"To achieve the goal of optimum AF in diverse situations and lighting conditions, the EOS-1D X makes use of far more than just an autofocus sensor, as previous cameras have done. Instead data is collected from the 61-point AF sensor, the auto exposure sensors, an AF correction light-source detection sensor and, with certain lenses, a panning detection gyro sensor. While these sensors provide a benefit to One-Shot AF shooting, the major benefit is found with AI Servo, where they can help identify the subject by not only contrast, but also color."
The images below show the 1D X AF point layout along with that of several other Canon EOS DSLRs.
The Canon EOS 1D X AF sensor is larger than any previous 1D/1Ds body.
The vertical measurement remains 8mm, but the horizontal measurement
increase from 15mm (1D Mark IV and 1Ds Mark III) to 19mm.
Regardless of how dense the AF points are, it is the overall spread that
has often more importance to me - as I typically often make use of only
a few of the points anyway.
For one example, the increased horizontal spread is going to allow
placement of an AF point on a person's head at a closer focus distance
in vertical orientation.
The more-rectangular layout is unique compared to the diamond and oval
layouts EOS owners are used to.
I'll let CPN describe the AF points:
"To improve focus accuracy, all 61 AF points feature a dual-line zigzag arrangement, as seen on three AF points within the EOS 7D. This arrangement provides the best aspects of both increased pixel pitch for finer precision and increased AF tracking speed with extra data points, without any of the drawbacks of either solution alone, allowing for both fast and accurate AF."
"Five of the central AF points, arranged vertically down the mid-line of the frame, function as Dual-Cross type AF points with lenses featuring an f/2.8 or faster maximum aperture (as seen on the central AF point of the EOS 7D). This means they are also arranged with a diagonally orientated AF point in an ‘X', plus a conventional horizontally and vertically arranged AF point, like a ‘+', offering increased focus precision."
"With lenses that have a maximum aperture of f/5.6, or faster, the central bank of 21 AF points will all function as cross-type AF sensors, and the left and right banks of 20 AF points each will act as cross-type sensors at f/4 and f/5.6."
"An advantage of the increased focus sensitivity is the ability to detect extreme defocus and correct accordingly. By using the whole AF sensor, where every point is vertical line sensitive at f/5.6 or greater, the lens can be refocused much more quickly than before. As part of this increased sensitivity, the EOS-1D X can now focus in even lower light levels than the EOS-1D Mark IV. Using a single central AF point with an f/2.8 lens, the EOS-1D Mark IV could focus in light levels of EV -1. However, the EOS-1D X is able to focus in EV -2, which is the equivalent of shooting under the light of the full moon.
The Canon EOS 1D X AF sensor is much more sensitive to small changes in contrast than previous models, promising significantly enhanced Low-contrast AF. Superior focusing precision is also promised.
I'll let CPN describe the AF points:
"To improve focus accuracy, all 61 AF points feature a dual-line zigzag arrangement, as seen on three AF points within the EOS 7D. This arrangement provides the best aspects of both increased pixel pitch for finer precision and increased AF tracking speed with extra data points, without any of the drawbacks of either solution alone, allowing for both fast and accurate AF."
"Five of the central AF points, arranged vertically down the mid-line of the frame, function as Dual-Cross type AF points with lenses featuring an f/2.8 or faster maximum aperture (as seen on the central AF point of the EOS 7D). This means they are also arranged with a diagonally orientated AF point in an ‘X', plus a conventional horizontally and vertically arranged AF point, like a ‘+', offering increased focus precision."
"With lenses that have a maximum aperture of f/5.6, or faster, the central bank of 21 AF points will all function as cross-type AF sensors, and the left and right banks of 20 AF points each will act as cross-type sensors at f/4 and f/5.6."
"An advantage of the increased focus sensitivity is the ability to detect extreme defocus and correct accordingly. By using the whole AF sensor, where every point is vertical line sensitive at f/5.6 or greater, the lens can be refocused much more quickly than before. As part of this increased sensitivity, the EOS-1D X can now focus in even lower light levels than the EOS-1D Mark IV. Using a single central AF point with an f/2.8 lens, the EOS-1D Mark IV could focus in light levels of EV -1. However, the EOS-1D X is able to focus in EV -2, which is the equivalent of shooting under the light of the full moon.
The Canon EOS 1D X AF sensor is much more sensitive to small changes in contrast than previous models, promising significantly enhanced Low-contrast AF. Superior focusing precision is also promised.
The Canon EOS 1D X, featuring new EOS iTR (Intelligent Tracking and
Recognition) AF options, no longer must rely solely on the AF sensor for
determining the proper focus distance.
The 1D X can make use of data provided by the AE sensor and its DIGIC 4
processor to improve focus tracking in AI Servo mode.
In its default mode, the 1D X utilizes phase/contrast detection AF information for AF - looking for the area of greatest contrast. I hesitate to use the word "conventional" to describe anything about the 1D X AF system, but phase/contrast detection is what has been the technology used by EOS DSLR AF for many years.
To prevent the AF system from jumping to another subject (perhaps another object/person with higher contrast), the 1D X, in a second mode, can detect and track the color and/or the face of your initial subject - adjusting the selected AF point to follow the intended subject.
The Canon EOS 1D X's 61 AF points result in a greater AF point density compared to the Canon EOS 1D IV's 41 AF points. Along with having more AF points to manually choose from, the 1D X's AF point density results in increased focus precision - especially when tracking moving subjects.
Like the Canon EOS 7D, the Canon EOS 1D X features six AF point selection modes: Spot, Single Point, Single Point with surrounding four points, Single Point with surrounding eight points, Zone selection and Automatic AF point selection (all AF points active). Spot AF activates a smaller section of the selected AF point for more precise focusing. Spot AF is not recommended for tracking action or for use in very low light scenarios. In Spot and Single Point AF selection modes, the viewfinder will visually indicate that a non-cross-type AF point is selected by flashing the selected AF point.
In AF point expansion modes, the 4 or 8 AF points surrounding the selected AF point will be used to assist in subject tracking. In Zone AF mode, one of nine zones is selected and the 1D X will automatically select the AF point to be used within the selected zone.
In its default mode, the 1D X utilizes phase/contrast detection AF information for AF - looking for the area of greatest contrast. I hesitate to use the word "conventional" to describe anything about the 1D X AF system, but phase/contrast detection is what has been the technology used by EOS DSLR AF for many years.
To prevent the AF system from jumping to another subject (perhaps another object/person with higher contrast), the 1D X, in a second mode, can detect and track the color and/or the face of your initial subject - adjusting the selected AF point to follow the intended subject.
The Canon EOS 1D X's 61 AF points result in a greater AF point density compared to the Canon EOS 1D IV's 41 AF points. Along with having more AF points to manually choose from, the 1D X's AF point density results in increased focus precision - especially when tracking moving subjects.
Like the Canon EOS 7D, the Canon EOS 1D X features six AF point selection modes: Spot, Single Point, Single Point with surrounding four points, Single Point with surrounding eight points, Zone selection and Automatic AF point selection (all AF points active). Spot AF activates a smaller section of the selected AF point for more precise focusing. Spot AF is not recommended for tracking action or for use in very low light scenarios. In Spot and Single Point AF selection modes, the viewfinder will visually indicate that a non-cross-type AF point is selected by flashing the selected AF point.
In AF point expansion modes, the 4 or 8 AF points surrounding the selected AF point will be used to assist in subject tracking. In Zone AF mode, one of nine zones is selected and the 1D X will automatically select the AF point to be used within the selected zone.
New with the 1D X are AF presets. To reduce complexity of the 1D X AF system, Canon provides six preconfigured (and changeable) AF "Case" settings (with icons representing their intended purpose) for common shooting scenarios.
Case 1 (default) is for general purpose shooting.
Case 2 is designed for situations where the subject may move away from the AF point momentarily.
Case 3 will allow you to instantly focus on subjects that enter the AF point area.
Case 4 is designed for subjects that change speed or direction rapidly.
Case 5 is designed for use with automatic AF point selection, Zone AF and AF Point expansion and subjects that move erratically, up and down or left and right.
Case 6 is like a combination of both 'Case 4' and 'Case 5' and is for subjects that change speed abruptly and move erratically.
The Canon EOS 1D X receives an upgraded predictive AI Servo autofocus algorithm. One stated change is that the initial subject will continue to be tracked even if the AF point is not on the subject for a short period of time - or if an object passes in front of the subject.
Using an attached Canon EF 300mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens or Canon EF 400mm f/2.8 L IS II USM Lens, the Canon EOS 1D X is able to detect both horizontal and vertical panning motion. If panning motion is detected, obstacles panned across will not cause the AF system to lock onto themselves. I have heard reports of the 1D X having in-camera gyros, but Canon USA does not indicate the presence of such gyros in their press release and has also confirmed their lack of presence for me.
"The increased sensitivity of the focus system has also allowed for faster predictive focus measurements." "In previous EOS cameras there was a warm-up period while the AF system began tracking." No warm-up period is necessary with the 1D X.
The Canon EOS 1D X is also improved by light source detection. This is how CPN describes this feature:
"As first seen in the EOS 7D, the EOS-1D X features a light source detection system to improve focus accuracy under artificial lighting. Because of the higher resolution of the AF sensors, chromatic aberration within the optics could lead to focus errors because the different colours of light waves are focused at slightly different distances. However, because the camera is able to determine how much red/green or blue/green light there is in a scene, the AF system can adjust for any potential chromatic aberrations that may occur within the AF system. While this is useful in all shooting situations, the greatest benefit will be seen when shooting under artificial lighting."
CPN also described the 1D X's AF system durability:
"AF system materials used have been chosen to withstand high and low temperatures equally well, as well as conditions of high humidity. The sub-mirror of the AF system has also been modified from an elliptical shape, as found in the EOS-1D Mark IV, to a flat surface in order to provide higher AF stability."
A properly AF-calibrated camera/lens combination is a requirement for accurate autofocus. AF tuning through AF Microadjustment has been available on the better Canon EOS bodies for many years now, but the Canon EOS 1D X takes AFMA a step forward. The 1D X is now able to automatically (or optionally, manually) detect the serial number of the mounted lens, and therefore, it can differentiate between multiple copies of the same lens. This means that multiple copies of the same lens model can be individually calibrated to a single 1D X body. I know that this feature is not going to mean much to most individuals, but it can mean a lot to agencies, schools and other organizations that have a large pool of cameras and lenses available.
What might be more important to individuals is that the EOS 1D X now allows separate AF Microadjustment for both the wide angle and the telephoto settings of a zoom lens.
As I said early in the Canon EOS 1D X review, there is no AF with lenses and lens combinations that report an aperture narrower than f/5.6. To be more clear, f/8 max aperture lens plus extender combinations will not AF on the 1D X. An f/5.6 lens with a 1.4x extender or an f/4 lens with a 2x extender will not AF on the 1D X. This is, perhaps, the end of that era. I have to admit that I'm surprised by this design decision. I hope that the overall AF benefits far outweigh the loss of f/8 AF.
Current EOS 1D and 1Ds owners should prepare for a bit of a learning curve when using the Canon EOS 1D X's new AF system. The promised benefits of this incredible AF system should far outweigh any effort required to learn how to use it efficiently.
The 1D X is all about speed, precision and durability. Let's talk more about speed.
The Canon EOS 1D X takes the blazing fast 10 fps frame rate of the 1D IV and adds 2 fps to that number for an incredible 12 fps frame rate. And it adds another 2 fps to that number with the mirror locked up for 14 fps. The sound of a 12 fps is simply awesome. It is sure to make you smile - and sure to capture the perfect moment of the action you are shooting.
I find myself less excited about the 14 fps capability since I most typically use fast burst for capturing action. Capturing action typically means that the subject is moving and that I need both the viewfinder and fast phase detection AF to track the action. With the mirror locked up, neither of these features are available.
Enabling these incredible frame rates required some design changes. Dedicated motors (two of them) are now used to drive the mirror and shutter. "To ensure high-precision AF, the mirror and sub-mirror are arrested by an absorption mechanism with four stoppers to reduce rebound and vibration during operation." This mechanism will also yield a more stable viewfinder image at high frame rates.
Also fast is the responsiveness of the shutter. Being able to precisely time the shot is extremely important for a professional photographer. The 1D X has a shutter lag of only 55ms and, with the Shortened Release Lag custom function enabled, certain lenses mounted and certain aperture settings (typically wide open) in use, down to an even more impressive 36ms.
The available shutter speed range is 1/8000 to 30 sec. as well as bulb. The 1D X's X-sync speed is 1/250 sec.
Being able to consume the data generated by 18mp images captured at 14 fps requires fast processing. As discussed earlier in the Canon EOS 1D X review, this camera employs dual DIGIC 5+ processors. These processors are fed by 4 four-channel Analogue-Digital convertors consuming the CMOS sensor's 16-channel readout. The EOS 1D Mark IV has 4 two-channel Analogue-Digital convertors in comparison.
Interesting is that the 1D X is not the first Canon SLR to reach 14 FPS. In 1984, Canon introduced the fixed/Pellicle mirror F-1 High Speed Motor Drive Film Camera that was also spec'd at 14 fps. This camera, with its two huge 24v power packs, was huge. And you would spend most of your F-1 High Speed shooting time reloading film.
Just after I standardized on SDHC cards for my 1Ds Mark III bodies (primarily to enable use in my laptop's built in card reader), the 1D X comes out with two CompactFlash card slots (the recent 1-Series bodies had both CF and SDHC slots). DIGIC 5+ processing power allows the 1D X to fully utilize UDMA 7 CompactFlash memory cards for a sustained write speed of up to 167MB/sec. The 1D X will write to both cards simultaneously for redundancy or is able to write to the second card upon filling the first.
Canon's 1-Series bodies have always received the most rugged build quality and the 1D X continues this tradition. Designed for reliable operation in harsh environments, the 1D X sports a magnesium alloy body shell and internal structure that protects and provides a rigid, solid feel. Note that "rigid" is especially helpful when shooting from a tripod - lesser cameras show a noticeable amount of flex when locked down on a tripod.
Utilizing "76 seals around buttons and body joints to help keep water and dust out of the internals", the 1D X "features the same dust and drip-proof construction" as the 1D IV - which again, is best-available in a Canon EOS model. Canon uses push buttons in the 1-Series bodies for improved weather sealing along with quicker operation and fewer accidental changes over dials.
Durability extends to the 1D X shutter mechanism - Canon EOS 1D X receives an EOS record shutter durability rating of 400,000 actuations. I have replaced two 1Ds III shutter assemblies - hopefully I will have to replace zero 1D X shutter assemblies.
If small and light are on your DSLR shopping requirements list, the 1D X is not for you. I personally appreciate this camera's mass when shooting. It is easy to hold it steady - and again, feels rock solid.
If you are moving to a 1-Series body from one of the Rebel series cameras, you are going to be in for an adjustment. However, if you are using one of the mid-sized bodies (such as the Canon EOS 50D or the Canon EOS 5D Mark II) with a battery grip, the size and weight difference is not so significant.
Be ready for another big change when first looking into the 1D X viewfinder. Canon EOS 1-Series bodies have always had differentiatingly large, bright, 100%-view, all-glass pentaprism viewfinders with plenty of nose relief from the LCD, and in many regards, the 1D X viewfinder is similar to the 1Ds III. But the 1D X viewfinder unmistakably like no 1-Series viewfinder before it.
"The translucent LCD [as seen in the 7D] allows the camera to display more essential information within the viewfinder, including the 61 AF points, Zone, Spot or Expansion AF points and a grid when required." Seeing 61 focus point reference squares is a bit overwhelming at first glance. Fortunately, the viewfinder display is highly configurable, including the option to turn off all information display, via the menu options controlling it.
In dim light, red LEDs light the viewfinder LCD display for easy visibility. These red LEDs can optionally be set to always be on or off using custom functions.
Canon notes that "Compared to the viewfinder found on the EOS 7D, the one found in the EOS-1D X has been designed for usage in harsher environments and it will function substantially better in temperatures below 0°C." Canon also notes that, "With the camera turned off the display will appear milky due to light scattering, but once the camera is powered on the display becomes clear."
The advantage offered by the 100% view delivered by the 1-Series viewfinders should not be underestimated. WYSIWYG - What You See Is What You Get. No guessing where the frame edges really are during composition.
The 1D X remains compatible with Ec-type interchangeable focusing screens. I use Canon EC-D Laser Matte w/ Grid Focusing Screens in my 1Ds III bodies. However, the 1D X's viewfinder LCD grid negates my need for this focusing screen.
Note that the 1D X in the image comparison below appears to afford less nose relief than the 1D III body. I didn't remember to look more closely at this aspect of the preproduction 1D X I used, but I didn't notice any differences in this respect. I suspect that the Canon-supplied image was shot from a slightly different angle which gives the illusion that the eye relief has been reduced on the new model. And don't underestimate the advantage of the extra nose relief provided by the 1-Series bodies.
Click on the labels below the above image to compare the various DSLR camera models.
As you surely noticed, there are no Mode dials on the 1-Series bodies. As I mentioned before, buttons allow quicker operation, fewer accidental changes, better weather sealing - and buttons consume less vertical space - than dials. A button press followed by a rear/top control dial change is typically used for camera setting changes including mode selection.
The 1D Mark IV had a total of 5 modes available including Bulb. The Canon EOS 1D X includes those 5 modes and adds the 3 custom shooting modes (C1, C2, and C3) we have seen on lower end DSLR models. The C-Modes allow you to store a set of camera settings for quick recall. New with the 1D X is that setting changes made while in any of the C modes update the stored settings and will be recalled when the camera is again switched to that specific C mode - or when the camera is awakened or powered up.
Found on consumer and entry-level pro camera models but missing on the 1D X are the Basic Zone pre-defined modes, "CA" (Creative Auto) mode and the fully-automatic point and shoot green square mode. With ISO set to Auto, the available "P" (Program) mode provides the 1D X near-fully automatic functionality.
The 1D X gains a button on the top. The ISO and +/- buttons have moved to the right to make room for the new-to-the-top WB (White Balance) button. To avoid button confusion during the heat of the shoot, the ISO button has a new, distinguishing shape.
Replacing the FEL button on both grips is one of the new, programmable Multi-function (M.Fn) buttons. You will find another pair of M.Fn buttons on the front of the 1D X. In the "No Lens" example in the front view image of the 1D X earlier in the review, you will see two pairs of buttons - and you will see that the old Depth of Field Preview button missing. Each of the button pairs features an M.Fn button and a DOF Preview button - one pair for each grip orientation.
Using the Custom Control settings menu, the 1D X M.Fn buttons can be programmed for: FEL, AE Lock, One-touch image quality settings, Dual-Axis electronic level activation, instant movie recording and C-Mode access.
Here is a visual comparison of the back of many Canon Digital SLR bodies.
As you surely noticed, there are no Mode dials on the 1-Series bodies. As I mentioned before, buttons allow quicker operation, fewer accidental changes, better weather sealing - and buttons consume less vertical space - than dials. A button press followed by a rear/top control dial change is typically used for camera setting changes including mode selection.
The 1D Mark IV had a total of 5 modes available including Bulb. The Canon EOS 1D X includes those 5 modes and adds the 3 custom shooting modes (C1, C2, and C3) we have seen on lower end DSLR models. The C-Modes allow you to store a set of camera settings for quick recall. New with the 1D X is that setting changes made while in any of the C modes update the stored settings and will be recalled when the camera is again switched to that specific C mode - or when the camera is awakened or powered up.
Found on consumer and entry-level pro camera models but missing on the 1D X are the Basic Zone pre-defined modes, "CA" (Creative Auto) mode and the fully-automatic point and shoot green square mode. With ISO set to Auto, the available "P" (Program) mode provides the 1D X near-fully automatic functionality.
The 1D X gains a button on the top. The ISO and +/- buttons have moved to the right to make room for the new-to-the-top WB (White Balance) button. To avoid button confusion during the heat of the shoot, the ISO button has a new, distinguishing shape.
Replacing the FEL button on both grips is one of the new, programmable Multi-function (M.Fn) buttons. You will find another pair of M.Fn buttons on the front of the 1D X. In the "No Lens" example in the front view image of the 1D X earlier in the review, you will see two pairs of buttons - and you will see that the old Depth of Field Preview button missing. Each of the button pairs features an M.Fn button and a DOF Preview button - one pair for each grip orientation.
Using the Custom Control settings menu, the 1D X M.Fn buttons can be programmed for: FEL, AE Lock, One-touch image quality settings, Dual-Axis electronic level activation, instant movie recording and C-Mode access.
Here is a visual comparison of the back of many Canon Digital SLR bodies.
The first 1D X back-of-the-camera change that jumps out at me is the dual Multi-controller setup.
Now, a Multi-controller is convenient to your thumb in both grip orientations.
More use is needed to confirm my initial impression, but so far, I think that this was a very positive design change.
Moving the memory card door release was necessitated by the addition of the second Multi-controller.
Most of the normal buttons are present on the back of the 1D X, but most of their locations are changed at least slightly and their sizes are, in some cases, increased slightly. Especially obvious is that the smaller of the two rear LCDs has traded positions with the bottom row of buttons. I find these buttons now easier to reach with my left hand.
The Canon EOS 1D X becomes the first 1-Series body to get a Quick Control button. Pressing the Q button while in shooting mode will bring up the Quick Control Screen where camera settings can be accessed and adjusted quickly and easily without having to use the menu or look at the top LCD panel.
Pressing the Q button while in playback mode will present an overlay with applicable options - including new-for-a-1-Series-body RAW processing. Software exposure compensation, white balance, Picture Style, color space, Auto Lighting Optimizer, High ISO NR, Peripheral Illumination Correction, Chromatic Aberration Correction and the output dimensions and quality of the converted JPEG can be selected prior to processing.
"Like the EOS 7D, the EOS-1D X features the ability to modify the control layout to suit your needs using the Custom Controls function. This allows you to map the function to each button on the camera and change what the Main Dial, Quick Control Dial and Multi-controller adjust during use." A "Lock" setting on the power switch allows, via menu selection, the Main Dial, Quick Control Dial or Multi-controller to be locked - preventing accidental changes.
I'm excited to see a Dual-Axis Electronic Level available in the 1D X. This feature is especially helpful when photographing landscape and architecture - or any other situation where you want a level camera. This feature is also especially helpful in very low light scenarios. The electronic level is available on the rear LCD or in the viewfinder. I did not figure out how to make the level work in the viewfinder during my time with the camera, but it worked very well on the rear LCD, presenting a nice graphic of the camera's state of levelness.
The 1D X's electronic level, when shown on the rear LCD, is spec'd to show 360° of roll and +/-10° of pitch in 1° increments. Accuracy is said to be +/-1° at up to +/-10° and +/-3° between +/-10° and +/-45°.
I frequently use a Hot Shoe Spirit Level when shooting landscape. Unfortunately, these are not always as accurate as I would like - and may be accurate in one installation position only, or may be accurate in only certain hot shoes. It will be much more difficult to physically lose the 1D X level, or to accidentally put it through the washing machine.
As expected, Canon's flagship DSLR receives Canon's best LCD - the Clear View LCD II. The Clear View LCD II measures 3.2" (81.1mm) and has 1.04 million dot resolution compared to the 1D IV's relatively new 3", 920,000 dot resolution. The aging 1Ds III has a 3" LCD but only 230,000 dot resolution.
"The construction is the same as the unit on the EOS-1D Mark IV, with no gap between the protective glass cover and the LCD unit. With no gap, there is no air-glass interface, so refraction and reflection is reduced. The surface of the glass cover also features the same anti-reflective coating."
The rear LCD is of course used for menu setting changes as well as reviewing capturing shots. The 1D X menu looks more overwhelming than prior models and will require some adjusting to. Found in the menu are 31 Custom Functions (mostly the same as the 1D IV) divided into 6 sections:
C.Fn 1 - Exposure
C.Fn 2 - Exposure
C.Fn 3 - Drive
C.Fn 4 - Display/Operation
C.Fn 5 - Operation
C.Fn 6 - Others
New options are available for Custom Control and Custom Shooting Modes. The ability to change the function of the Protect Button to apply ratings to images is now available. Available drive modes (Single, High Speed, Low Speed, Self-timer 10sec, self-timer 2sec, Single Silent, and 14fps super High Speed) can once again be restricted using the Custom Function menu.
Not new, but a feature worth mentioning is the unique ability of Canon's 1-Series bodies to record 30 second voice memos to captured images. This is an excellent way to remember information pertaining to a photo - including the names of the subjects. Audio is recorded at 48KHz, or, new with the 1D X, an 8KHz sampling frequency for smaller file sizes can be selected in the Custom Functions menu.
And the rear LCD is of course used for shooting video.
New for a 1-Series body is the inclusion of a Movie/Live View button, conveniently located to the right of the viewfinder. Less surprising is that the Canon EOS 1D X, like most other Canon EOS DSLR models introduced since 2008, starting with the ground-breaking Canon EOS 5D Mark II, has HD video capabilities. The 1D X incorporates all current video features and adds new ones. Here is a rundown of the 1D X video specs:
Available recording sizes and frame rates are: 1920 x 1080 (30, 25, 24 fps), 1280 x 720 (60, 50 fps) and 640 x 480 (30, 25 fps). The .MOV file format is used with the H.264 codec and new, selectable IPB (Bi-directional compression) or ALL-I (Intra-coded Frame) compression methods. IPB offers a higher compression rate by compressing multiple frames together while ALL-I compresses each frame individually - allowing for more precise editing. ALL-I compressed footage will be about three times larger (but requires less computing power) than IPB compressed footage.
Now supported in 1D X video is the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) timecode standard of Hour:Minute:Second:Frame (0-29 for 30 fps) with four options (and more sub options) for this counter. A drop frame count menu is available to compensate for counts when using frame rates such as 29.97 fps.
With its ability to start new video files during filming, the 4GB /12 min HD Movie clip limit has now been surpassed. "Legal reasons" now limit the maximum total HD clip length to 29 minutes and 59 seconds.
Video exposure control is via Program AE or fully Manual exposure. ISO 100 through 51,200 are available as well as ±3 stops of exposure compensation in 1/3- or 1/2-stop increments.
Audio recording options are the internal microphone capturing 16bit mono sound or the 3.5mm stereo input jack - both recording at 48KHz. Manual audio level control is available and features a live audio level meter displayed on the rear LCD during filming. The audio recording level is now able to be adjusted (along with shutter speed, aperture, ISO and exposure compensation) during filming using the new Silent Control Function located inside the Quick Control Dial - a capacitive touch pad. The Canon rep I was working with was not able to demo this function for me - I look forward to figuring this feature out.
Both chromatic aberration and peripheral illumination correction are now available in 1D X video.
The 1D X video focusing option is listed as "Same as Live View Shooting". Plan on using manual focus.
Unlike all Canon EOS DSLRs before it, the Canon EOS 1D X features an error log that, not surprisingly, tracks all camera errors. These logs will give Canon Service better information for diagnosing problems. "With the status log, there is also a counter that keeps track of the number of shutter release cycles." I highly welcome the 1D X's odometer, but I'm not sure many of us will reach even close to the 400,000 shutter actuation rating of this camera - thus reducing the value of the feature.
I expect the Canon EOS 1D X video quality to surpass even that of the 5D Mark II. It should be impressive - especially with the vast selection of high quality lenses available for this camera.
Most of the normal buttons are present on the back of the 1D X, but most of their locations are changed at least slightly and their sizes are, in some cases, increased slightly. Especially obvious is that the smaller of the two rear LCDs has traded positions with the bottom row of buttons. I find these buttons now easier to reach with my left hand.
The Canon EOS 1D X becomes the first 1-Series body to get a Quick Control button. Pressing the Q button while in shooting mode will bring up the Quick Control Screen where camera settings can be accessed and adjusted quickly and easily without having to use the menu or look at the top LCD panel.
Pressing the Q button while in playback mode will present an overlay with applicable options - including new-for-a-1-Series-body RAW processing. Software exposure compensation, white balance, Picture Style, color space, Auto Lighting Optimizer, High ISO NR, Peripheral Illumination Correction, Chromatic Aberration Correction and the output dimensions and quality of the converted JPEG can be selected prior to processing.
"Like the EOS 7D, the EOS-1D X features the ability to modify the control layout to suit your needs using the Custom Controls function. This allows you to map the function to each button on the camera and change what the Main Dial, Quick Control Dial and Multi-controller adjust during use." A "Lock" setting on the power switch allows, via menu selection, the Main Dial, Quick Control Dial or Multi-controller to be locked - preventing accidental changes.
I'm excited to see a Dual-Axis Electronic Level available in the 1D X. This feature is especially helpful when photographing landscape and architecture - or any other situation where you want a level camera. This feature is also especially helpful in very low light scenarios. The electronic level is available on the rear LCD or in the viewfinder. I did not figure out how to make the level work in the viewfinder during my time with the camera, but it worked very well on the rear LCD, presenting a nice graphic of the camera's state of levelness.
The 1D X's electronic level, when shown on the rear LCD, is spec'd to show 360° of roll and +/-10° of pitch in 1° increments. Accuracy is said to be +/-1° at up to +/-10° and +/-3° between +/-10° and +/-45°.
I frequently use a Hot Shoe Spirit Level when shooting landscape. Unfortunately, these are not always as accurate as I would like - and may be accurate in one installation position only, or may be accurate in only certain hot shoes. It will be much more difficult to physically lose the 1D X level, or to accidentally put it through the washing machine.
As expected, Canon's flagship DSLR receives Canon's best LCD - the Clear View LCD II. The Clear View LCD II measures 3.2" (81.1mm) and has 1.04 million dot resolution compared to the 1D IV's relatively new 3", 920,000 dot resolution. The aging 1Ds III has a 3" LCD but only 230,000 dot resolution.
"The construction is the same as the unit on the EOS-1D Mark IV, with no gap between the protective glass cover and the LCD unit. With no gap, there is no air-glass interface, so refraction and reflection is reduced. The surface of the glass cover also features the same anti-reflective coating."
The rear LCD is of course used for menu setting changes as well as reviewing capturing shots. The 1D X menu looks more overwhelming than prior models and will require some adjusting to. Found in the menu are 31 Custom Functions (mostly the same as the 1D IV) divided into 6 sections:
C.Fn 1 - Exposure
C.Fn 2 - Exposure
C.Fn 3 - Drive
C.Fn 4 - Display/Operation
C.Fn 5 - Operation
C.Fn 6 - Others
New options are available for Custom Control and Custom Shooting Modes. The ability to change the function of the Protect Button to apply ratings to images is now available. Available drive modes (Single, High Speed, Low Speed, Self-timer 10sec, self-timer 2sec, Single Silent, and 14fps super High Speed) can once again be restricted using the Custom Function menu.
Not new, but a feature worth mentioning is the unique ability of Canon's 1-Series bodies to record 30 second voice memos to captured images. This is an excellent way to remember information pertaining to a photo - including the names of the subjects. Audio is recorded at 48KHz, or, new with the 1D X, an 8KHz sampling frequency for smaller file sizes can be selected in the Custom Functions menu.
And the rear LCD is of course used for shooting video.
New for a 1-Series body is the inclusion of a Movie/Live View button, conveniently located to the right of the viewfinder. Less surprising is that the Canon EOS 1D X, like most other Canon EOS DSLR models introduced since 2008, starting with the ground-breaking Canon EOS 5D Mark II, has HD video capabilities. The 1D X incorporates all current video features and adds new ones. Here is a rundown of the 1D X video specs:
Available recording sizes and frame rates are: 1920 x 1080 (30, 25, 24 fps), 1280 x 720 (60, 50 fps) and 640 x 480 (30, 25 fps). The .MOV file format is used with the H.264 codec and new, selectable IPB (Bi-directional compression) or ALL-I (Intra-coded Frame) compression methods. IPB offers a higher compression rate by compressing multiple frames together while ALL-I compresses each frame individually - allowing for more precise editing. ALL-I compressed footage will be about three times larger (but requires less computing power) than IPB compressed footage.
Now supported in 1D X video is the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) timecode standard of Hour:Minute:Second:Frame (0-29 for 30 fps) with four options (and more sub options) for this counter. A drop frame count menu is available to compensate for counts when using frame rates such as 29.97 fps.
With its ability to start new video files during filming, the 4GB /12 min HD Movie clip limit has now been surpassed. "Legal reasons" now limit the maximum total HD clip length to 29 minutes and 59 seconds.
Video exposure control is via Program AE or fully Manual exposure. ISO 100 through 51,200 are available as well as ±3 stops of exposure compensation in 1/3- or 1/2-stop increments.
Audio recording options are the internal microphone capturing 16bit mono sound or the 3.5mm stereo input jack - both recording at 48KHz. Manual audio level control is available and features a live audio level meter displayed on the rear LCD during filming. The audio recording level is now able to be adjusted (along with shutter speed, aperture, ISO and exposure compensation) during filming using the new Silent Control Function located inside the Quick Control Dial - a capacitive touch pad. The Canon rep I was working with was not able to demo this function for me - I look forward to figuring this feature out.
Both chromatic aberration and peripheral illumination correction are now available in 1D X video.
The 1D X video focusing option is listed as "Same as Live View Shooting". Plan on using manual focus.
Unlike all Canon EOS DSLRs before it, the Canon EOS 1D X features an error log that, not surprisingly, tracks all camera errors. These logs will give Canon Service better information for diagnosing problems. "With the status log, there is also a counter that keeps track of the number of shutter release cycles." I highly welcome the 1D X's odometer, but I'm not sure many of us will reach even close to the 400,000 shutter actuation rating of this camera - thus reducing the value of the feature.
I expect the Canon EOS 1D X video quality to surpass even that of the 5D Mark II. It should be impressive - especially with the vast selection of high quality lenses available for this camera.
The ports available on the Canon EOS 1D X are, clockwise from top left,
the system extension terminal (WFT-E6 or GP-E1 mentioned below), the new
Ethernet RJ-45 terminal,
the HDMI mini out and Audio/video OUT/digital terminal, and the external
microphone IN terminal and remote control terminal (N3 type) and PC
terminal.
The new Gigabit Ethernet LAN port accepts an RJ-45 connector for direct cabling to a network similar to the slower LAN port on the 1D IV's WFT-E2 II. Image transfer and camera control capabilities are the same as those in the WFT. Supported are: FTP Transfer (upload images to an FTP server), EOS Utility (remotely controlled shooting and image upload), WFT Server (control and browse the camera directly from a web browser), Media Server (connect to a DLNA-compatible device such as HD TVs for payback) and Time Sync (new).
First available on the 1D X, the Multi Camera Time Sync Function allows multiple cameras to have their times perfectly synchronized. Having synchronized times allows photos taken with multiple cameras and by multiple photographers to be sorted chronologically.
The new Gigabit Ethernet LAN port accepts an RJ-45 connector for direct cabling to a network similar to the slower LAN port on the 1D IV's WFT-E2 II. Image transfer and camera control capabilities are the same as those in the WFT. Supported are: FTP Transfer (upload images to an FTP server), EOS Utility (remotely controlled shooting and image upload), WFT Server (control and browse the camera directly from a web browser), Media Server (connect to a DLNA-compatible device such as HD TVs for payback) and Time Sync (new).
First available on the 1D X, the Multi Camera Time Sync Function allows multiple cameras to have their times perfectly synchronized. Having synchronized times allows photos taken with multiple cameras and by multiple photographers to be sorted chronologically.
Shown above are the new Canon GP-E1 GPS Receiver and the Canon WFT-E6A Wireless File Transmitter.
The Canon WFT-E6A Wireless File Transmitter is shown installed in a Canon EOS 1D X system extension terminal below.
The GP-E1 GPS Receiver features an electronic compass and GPS signal
receiver, allowing location information to be added to the EXIF data for
each image.
Featuring 802.11a/b/g and n (new, faster) compatibility, the WFT-E6 Wireless File Transmitter with a Bluetooth module extends the LAN port capabilities to wireless remote locations. While the GPS and WFT units cannot be installed simultaneously, geotagging is still optional through the use of an external Bluetooth GPS.
The Canon EOS 1D X utilizes a new, slightly higher capacity battery, the Canon LP-E4N Battery Pack. The Canon LP-E4N Battery Pack is both forward and backward compatible with the Canon LP-E4 Battery Pack found in the recent 1-Series bodies. Utilizing a larger number of smaller cells, the LP-E4N capacity increased from 2300mAh to 2450mAh. A new battery charger, the Canon LC-E4N, is required to fully charge the new batteries. The LC-E4 charger will charge LC-E4N batteries to only about 90% capacity.
Canon currently lists the number of shots and length of video recorded on a fully charged LP-E4N as "TBA". For reference, the LP-E4 + 1D IV combination is rated at 1500 shots. The 1D IV rating for video recording is 2 hours and 40 min.
Featuring 802.11a/b/g and n (new, faster) compatibility, the WFT-E6 Wireless File Transmitter with a Bluetooth module extends the LAN port capabilities to wireless remote locations. While the GPS and WFT units cannot be installed simultaneously, geotagging is still optional through the use of an external Bluetooth GPS.
The Canon EOS 1D X utilizes a new, slightly higher capacity battery, the Canon LP-E4N Battery Pack. The Canon LP-E4N Battery Pack is both forward and backward compatible with the Canon LP-E4 Battery Pack found in the recent 1-Series bodies. Utilizing a larger number of smaller cells, the LP-E4N capacity increased from 2300mAh to 2450mAh. A new battery charger, the Canon LC-E4N, is required to fully charge the new batteries. The LC-E4 charger will charge LC-E4N batteries to only about 90% capacity.
Canon currently lists the number of shots and length of video recorded on a fully charged LP-E4N as "TBA". For reference, the LP-E4 + 1D IV combination is rated at 1500 shots. The 1D IV rating for video recording is 2 hours and 40 min.
The two general purpose lenses I, at review time, recommend most highly for this camera are the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens and the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L USM Lens. If you need to stop action in low light or get the shallowest DOF possible in the 24-70mm range, get the 24-70. Otherwise, the 24-105 provides a longer focal length range in a smaller/lighter package - and has image stabilization.
When you buy a Canon DSLR, you are buying into an incredible family of lenses and other accessories. One of these lenses is just the start.
The support provided by Canon's USA division is excellent (I have no experience with the other Canon divisions but generally hear similarly positive stories of them). When I call for support, I get an intelligent person who sincerely wants to help me with whatever my question or problem is. Repair service, though I don't frequently need it, is fast and reliable. Join CPS (Canon Professional Services) for extremely fast repairs.
As usual, this Canon EOS 1D X review (preview for now) does not cover nearly all aspects and features available on this camera. I highly recommend reading the owner's manual (I'll link to it at the bottom of this page when it becomes available).
Except for those that need a higher density sensor or AF at f/8, I fully expect the Canon EOS 1D X to be the ultimate Canon DSLR selection and a great upgrade from any Canon EOS DSLR made to date. Though price will keep it out of reach of many, I expect the Canon EOS 1D X to be an ideal tool for photographers in all disciplines - and I expect it to be the ultimate tool for photojournalists and sports/action photographers who absolutely cannot miss a shot. When you must capture the shot, regardless of the shooting conditions and subject speed, I expect this to be the ultimate camera to do it with.
While I expect a significant portion of 1D x owners to be professional photographers, I am sure that not all Canon EOS 1D X will be purchased by such. Included in the non-professional category will be parents with other careers who value capturing never-going-back-to family moments even more than for-pay photographs.
The upgrade from any of Canon's APS-C/1.6x bodies to the Canon EOS 1D X should be a huge one - and of course, the cost to trade up is reflected in this.
Those not needing the fast performance, impressive AI Servo AF and rugged build of the 1D Mark X may find the Canon EOS 5D Mark II to be an acceptable option - especially from a cost perspective.
Those needing a fast frame rate but not able to afford the 1D X should look next at the Canon EOS 7D. Though its image quality will not be a match for the 1D X, the 7D offers a good AF system, advanced features and a very good frame rate - for a far more affordable price.
The 1D X is all about speed, precision, durability - and of course, image quality. I find the Canon EOS 1D X to be a more revolutionary camera upgrade than I have seen for a while. As such, the Canon EOS 1D X will very likely remain very difficult to get when it first hits the streets, and I suspect it will remain so for many months beyond that time. I will post to the news page/feed when the retailers I follow begin accepting preorders and again when they have stock available. And of course, completion of a full Canon EOS 1D X review will be at the top of my todo list when production models become available.
Source : www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/Canon-EOS-1D-X-Digital-SLR-Camera-Review.aspx
