Our Canon EOS M3 review: a powerhouse with shortcomings

EOS M3

The Canon EOS M3 is the company’s third mirrorless camera. And it is Canon’s first serious mirrorless camera, with many features and functions that will appeal to the enthusiasts. So, how does the EOS M3 perform and is it right for you?

It seems Canon listened to their customers while developing the EOS M3. Unlike the original EOS M, the M3 gained additional controls, a large grip, and has a 3-inch touchscreen that tilts up (180 degrees) and down (45 degrees). The EOS M3 features a new 24MP APS-C sensor, 49-points Hybrid CMOS III AF system, DIGIC 6 processor, Full 1080p HD video at 24/25/30 fps, ISO 100-12800 (expandable to 25600), a two-level axis, WiFi and NFC connectivity, 4.2 fps, a built-in flash, 14 bit RAW, and a flash hot-shoe that can be used to mount an EVF. The EOS M3 is a powerhouse with shortcomings. Bear with me for the review after the break. I also start We Shoot EOS M, a forum dedicated to all EOS M shooters, and available to other Canon shooters too.

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Zeiss Milvus lenses first impression and test footage

News Shooter had a brief hands-on with the new Zeiss Milvus lenses. They say:

The materials used and the damping on the focus ring felt very like the Otus range of lenses, and each Milvus has a very solid feel. The 50mm f1.4 and 85mm f1.4 are completely new optical designs and are said to be very close to the performance of the flagship Otus lenses.

The new Zeiss Milvus lenses can be pre-ordered:

zeiss milvus

SP 35mm f/1.8 Di VC USD and SP 45mm f/1.8 Di VC USD first impression and samples

Tamron

Thanks Albert. Popular Photography posted their impression about the new Tamron SP 35mm f/1.8 Di VC USD and SP 45mm f/1.8 Di VC USD lenses. A set of 38 sample pictures is also provided. A Canon EOS 6D was used. They say:

Focusing is generally quick, but when the lens has to cover a wide range, it can be a bit sluggish. For instance, if you’re focusing out at the horizon for a landscape and then try to quickly switch and capture something close to you, the lag might be noticeable. Overall, though, the focusing movements are very smooth.

The reviewer also noticed some chromatic aberrations. Read the review at Popular Photography.

The new Tamron primes can be pre-ordered at $599, a pretty good price if you consider that the Tamrons are weather-sealed and image-stabilised.

Specs after the break.

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Zeiss Milvus 21mm f/2.8 ZE sample photos

Zeiss Milvus 21mm

ephotozine posted a set of sample pics shot with the brand new Zeiss Milvus 21mm f/2.8 lens. A Canon EOS 6D was used, high res files are available.

The new Zeiss Milvus 21mm f/2.8 ZE can be pre-ordered at $1,843: B&H Photo | AdoramaZeiss Milvus 21mm f/2.8 specs:

  • EF Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format
  • Aperture Range: f/2.8 to f/22
  • 4 Anomalous Partial Dispersion Elements
  • Distagon Optical Design
  • Floating Elements System
  • Zeiss T* Anti-Reflective Coating
  • Manual Focus Design
  • Anodized Metal Barrel, Rubber Focus Ring
  • Weather-Sealed Construction

Zeiss Milvus 21mm

Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM DxOMarked (very good optical performance)

DxOMark published their lab results for the new Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens:

After revamping the original Mark I version with a noticeably lower build, including a plastic mount and no AF distance scale, the EF 50mm f/1.8 II model really didn’t add Canon anything to its reputation as a premium lens maker. It had one redeeming quality, though: its image quality was really very good. The new STM version doesn’t quite match the recently-updated Nikon AFS Nikkor 50mm f1/.8G in its aspirations or price (the Nikkor is available now for around $220); however, Canon has enhanced the look and feel and replaced the old micro-motor with a stepper type. Best of all, the image quality is practically identical and at $129, it remains a steal. Read the review.

Canon Powershot G3 X field test by Imaging Resource

Powershot G3 X
  • 20.2 MP 1 inch CMOS sensor
  • 25x, f/2.8-5.6 optical zoom lens, 24-600mm equivalent
  • ISO 125-12800
  • DIGIC 6 Image Processor
  • 1080p Full HD and Expanded Movie Options
  • Built in Wi-Fi and NFC for instant sharing

Imaging Resource posted a very exhaustive review of the PowerShot G3 X.

From the conclusion:

The Canon PowerShot G3 X delivers high quality images across an impressive range of ISO speeds. With an excellent 24-600mm lens, the G3X offers a focal length range that its direct competitors can’t match at this time. The large touchscreen display is sharp and is an acceptable alternative to a viewfinder in many, but not all, situations. The G3X does many things well and has a lot to offer, but it is not without its drawbacks. The G3X’s autofocus performance excels in good conditions but disappoints in lower light. Despite having an excellent focal length for wildlife images, the slow continuous RAW shooting and less than impressive continuous autofocus hampers the G3X’s ability to capture action, particularly at longer focal lengths.

The review comes with sample pics, high ISO tests, and more. The G3 X is a solid performer, and this review confirms it. It’s just a bit expensive in my opinion, selling at $999.

Canon PowerShot G3 X price check: B&H Photo, Adorama, Amazon USA, Amazon Canada, Canon Canada, Canon USA