Roadmap to
the EOS 50D
T
hree words can describe Canon's 50D dSLR — fast,
sleek, and fun. It fi ts easily and comfortably in the hand
with a compact yet substantial heft. It responds with the
speed of a gazelle delivering images at a rate of 6.3 frames
per second (fps) and at a stunning 15.1-megapixels. The EOS
50D is packed with Canon's latest features and technologies
that collectively deliver speedy and reliable performance and
superior image quality. Whether you're new to digital photog-
raphy or a veteran, the EOS 50D hits a sweet spot of high
image resolution, speed, and creative control.
This chapter puts some of the new features and technologies
of the EOS 50D into everyday perspective and off ers a road-
map to navigating the camera controls and menus. Where
possible, I off er paradigms for using the camera that help you
spend less time remembering what control to use and more
time shooting.
Key Technology
Before we begin, it's worthwhile to look at key technology that
the 50D off ers. The fi rst, the15.1-megapixel image sensor at
4752 × 3168 pixels produces full-resolution prints at 15.5 × 10.7
inches at 300 ppi, or 19.4 × 13.4 inches at 240 ppi for inkjet
prints. The new CMOS (complementary metal-oxide semicon-
ductor) features Canon's newest technology including:
"Gapless" microlens technology and increased
ISO range. While the EOS 50D packs more and
smaller pixels on a sensor that's the same size
as the EOS 40D (4.7 versus 5.7 micron pixels sizes,
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C H A P T E R
In This Chapter
Key technology
Camera features
overview
Lens controls