The Canon EOS 60D is a digital single-lens reflex camera that was announced on August 26, 2010. Since its release, it has become a popular choice among photographers of all levels, from beginners to professionals. In this article, we will delve into the history of the Canon 60D, its features, and its impact on the world of photography.
A Brief History of the Canon EOS Series
Before we dive into the details of the Canon 60D, let’s take a brief look at the history of the Canon EOS series. The EOS (Electro-Optical System) series was first introduced by Canon in 1987, and it has since become one of the most popular and respected camera systems in the world. The EOS series was designed to provide a more advanced and versatile camera system for photographers, with features such as autofocus, autoexposure, and interchangeable lenses.
Over the years, the EOS series has undergone significant changes and upgrades, with new models being released regularly. The Canon EOS 20D, released in 2004, was a major milestone in the series, featuring a 6.3-megapixel sensor and advanced autofocus system. The Canon EOS 40D, released in 2007, further improved on the 20D’s features, with a 10.1-megapixel sensor and live view mode.
The Birth of the Canon 60D
Fast-forward to 2010, and Canon announced the release of the EOS 60D, the successor to the popular EOS 50D. The Canon 60D was designed to be a mid-range camera, slotting in between the entry-level EOS 550D and the high-end EOS 7D. The camera was officially announced on August 26, 2010, and it was released to the public in September 2010.
Features of the Canon 60D
So, what makes the Canon 60D so special? Here are some of its key features:
18-Megapixel Sensor
The Canon 60D features an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, which provides exceptional image quality and low noise performance. This sensor is capable of capturing images with a maximum resolution of 5184 x 3456 pixels, making it ideal for photographers who want to produce high-quality prints.
Full HD Video Recording
The Canon 60D was one of the first DSLR cameras to offer full HD video recording capabilities. It can record 1080p video at 30fps, 24fps, and 25fps, making it an ideal choice for videographers and photographers who want to capture high-quality video footage.
ISO Range
The Canon 60D has an ISO range of 100-6400, which can be expanded to 12800 in high-ISO mode. This allows photographers to capture images in a wide range of lighting conditions, from bright sunlight to low-light interiors.
Autofocus System
The Canon 60D features a 9-point autofocus system, which provides fast and accurate autofocus performance. The system has a dedicated AF sensor, which can operate in low light conditions, making it ideal for photographers who want to capture images in challenging lighting conditions.
Weather Sealing
The Canon 60D has a weather-sealed body, which makes it resistant to dust and moisture. This feature is particularly useful for outdoor photographers who want to capture images in harsh weather conditions.
Impact of the Canon 60D on the Photography Industry
The Canon 60D has had a significant impact on the photography industry since its release in 2010. Here are a few ways in which it has made a difference:
Increased Accessibility
The Canon 60D has made high-quality photography more accessible to a wider range of photographers. Its mid-range price point and advanced features have made it an attractive option for photographers who want to step up from entry-level cameras without breaking the bank.
Advancements in DSLR Technology
The Canon 60D has driven innovation in DSLR technology, pushing the boundaries of what is possible with a camera. Its full HD video recording capabilities, advanced autofocus system, and weather-sealed body have set a new standard for DSLR cameras.
Influence on Canon’s Future Camera Lineup
The Canon 60D has had a profound influence on Canon’s future camera lineup. Its success has paved the way for subsequent models, such as the EOS 70D and EOS 80D, which have built on the 60D’s features and innovations.
Conclusion
The Canon EOS 60D is a testament to Canon’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the world of photography. Its release in 2010 marked a significant milestone in the history of the EOS series, and its impact on the photography industry is still felt today. With its advanced features, exceptional image quality, and mid-range price point, the Canon 60D is a camera that has stood the test of time.
| Feature | Canon 60D |
|---|---|
| Sensor Type | APS-C CMOS |
| Resolution | 18 megapixels |
| ISO Range | 100-6400 (expandable to 12800) |
| Video Recording | Full HD (1080p) at 30fps, 24fps, and 25fps |
| Autofocus Points | 9-point |
| Weather Sealing | Yes |
Note: The table above provides a summary of the Canon 60D’s key features.
What are the key features of the Canon EOS 60D?
The Canon EOS 60D is a high-performance digital single-lens reflex camera that boasts an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, DIGIC 4 image processing, and a wide ISO range of 100-6400. It also features a 3-inch Vari-Angle LCD screen, full HD video recording capabilities, and a 9-point autofocus system. Additionally, the camera has built-in wireless flash control and compatibility with Canon’s range of EF and EF-S lenses.
The EOS 60D also features a range of creative filters and effects, including a new filters function that allows users to apply filters to their images post-capture. Other notable features include a built-in microphone, manual audio level control, and HDMI output. The camera’s body is constructed from a durable combination of aluminum and polycarbonate resin, and it is weather-sealed to protect against dust and moisture.
Is the Canon EOS 60D suitable for beginners?
The Canon EOS 60D is designed to be an accessible and user-friendly camera, making it an excellent choice for beginners. The camera features a range of automatic modes, including a fully automatic mode and several scene-specific modes, that allow users to capture high-quality images without needing to understand complex technical settings. Additionally, the EOS 60D’s built-in Feature Guide provides on-screen explanations of the camera’s settings and features, helping users to learn and understand the camera’s functions.
That being said, the EOS 60D is also a highly advanced camera that offers a range of manual controls and features that will appeal to more experienced photographers. As users become more familiar with the camera and develop their photography skills, they can take advantage of the EOS 60D’s more advanced features and settings. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, the EOS 60D has something to offer.
Can I use the Canon EOS 60D for video recording?
Yes, the Canon EOS 60D is capable of recording full HD video at a resolution of 1080p. The camera features a dedicated video recording button, and users can record video in a range of frame rates, including 30fps, 25fps, and 24fps. The EOS 60D also features manual audio level control, a built-in microphone, and the option to use external microphones.
In addition to its technical capabilities, the EOS 60D’s Vari-Angle LCD screen makes it easy to capture video from a variety of angles, including low and high angles. The camera’s 9-point autofocus system also helps to ensure that subjects remain sharp and in focus during video recording. Whether you’re recording family events, capturing corporate videos, or creating your own films, the EOS 60D is an excellent choice for video recording.
What type of lenses are compatible with the Canon EOS 60D?
The Canon EOS 60D is compatible with Canon’s range of EF and EF-S lenses. EF lenses are designed for use with full-frame cameras, but they can also be used with the EOS 60D’s APS-C sensor. EF-S lenses, on the other hand, are specifically designed for use with APS-C sensors and are therefore optimized for use with the EOS 60D.
Canon offers a wide range of EF and EF-S lenses, including standard zooms, telephoto zooms, macro lenses, and fisheye lenses. This provides users with a vast range of creative options and the ability to capture a wide range of subjects and scenes. Whether you’re capturing portraits, landscapes, or sports photography, there’s a Canon lens that’s suitable for the task.
Does the Canon EOS 60D have built-in Wi-Fi?
No, the Canon EOS 60D does not have built-in Wi-Fi. However, users can connect the camera to a computer or other device using a USB cable or wirelessly using the optional W-E1 Wi-Fi adapter. The W-E1 adapter allows users to transfer images wirelessly to a computer or smart device, making it easy to share photos and videos online.
In addition to wireless file transfer, the EOS 60D’s remote control feature allows users to control the camera remotely using a smartphone or tablet. This can be useful for capturing self-portraits, group shots, or wildlife photography.
Is the Canon EOS 60D weather-sealed?
Yes, the Canon EOS 60D has a weather-sealed body that protects it against dust and moisture. The camera’s body is constructed from a durable combination of aluminum and polycarbonate resin, and it features a range of seals and gaskets to prevent water and dust from entering the camera.
While the EOS 60D is not fully waterproof, its weather-sealing makes it suitable for use in a range of outdoor environments, including rainy or dusty conditions. This makes it an excellent choice for photographers who spend a lot of time shooting outdoors, such as landscape, sports, or wildlife photographers.
What is the battery life of the Canon EOS 60D?
The Canon EOS 60D’s battery life is rated at approximately 440 shots per charge, based on Canon’s standard testing procedures. However, this can vary depending on a range of factors, including the type of shooting you’re doing, the ambient temperature, and the camera’s settings.
In general, the EOS 60D’s battery life is excellent, and it should provide enough power for a full day’s shooting. If you’re planning to shoot for extended periods, it’s always a good idea to bring a spare battery or to pack a battery grip, which can extend the camera’s battery life even further.