Are There Even Enough EOS 7D Users To Justify An EOS R With APS-C Sensor?

Eos R Model With Aps-c
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We got a curios mail from a source we dealt with in the past. But instead of “never seen features” or “truly innovative sensor”, we got a somewhat different rumor. Well, it’s again about an EOS R with APS-C sensor.

Our source states, I quote, “do not believe the EOS R with APS-C bs [sic]”. Well, we never were sold out on this. However, the source, who claims to have some insights in Canon’s strategies, has a rather interesting argumentation for what he or she claims is Canon’s motivation to not release an EOS R body with APS-C sensor. Simply speaking, Canon doesn’t think there are enough EOS 7D users, or photographers with such needs, to justify the launch of an EOS R model with crop sensor.

To be honest, I never wondered how large the EOS 7D user base was. I know it’s a community with many happy with Canon for having made the two 7Ds. WIld-life photographers and all those on a budget yet needing more reach with their telephoto lenses made a thankful and reliable user base for the EOS 7D lineup. The question is: are they large enough in numbers to motivate Canon to design and build and EOS R with APS-C?

We had some discussion among us and involved some 7D shooters. While there was no clear consensus, we were able to agree (well, at least to a large degree) to the following points:

  • Full frame sensor equipped cameras are becoming more and more inexpensive. The EOS RP sells for less than $1000, and an upcoming new entry-level EOS R is rumored to be even less expensive than the RP. It’s no longer a financial hurdle as it used to be. Hence the motivation or need to safe a few bucks with an APS-C sensor might be decreasing.
  • Th same applies to telephoto lenses, for instance see the rather unexpected telephoto lenses Canon made with f/11 and sells at a reasonable price
  • RF mount lens offering is increasing quickly. No doubt about that, just look at sheer number of patent application.
  • For everything amateur level or below an EOS 7D, there is the hugely popular EOS M lineup, which I assure is not going to die anytime soon.
  • APS-C technology doesn’t seem to have a great future in the industry, besides on consumer cameras or where space issues and form factor are a critical issue.
  • And finally, Canon released the EOS 90D, an APS-C DSLR already far superior to the EOS 7D Mark II and seen by many as the last favor done to hard core professional APS-C shooter before taking them to Canon’s new shiny full frame mirrorless universe.

We are not saying APS-C will disappear in the next few years. The technology still has great potential and given how much crop sensors have evolved with respect to high ISO/noise performance, I am sure we are going to see some very interesting application in the future. Also, keep in mind that if full frame imaging sensor are going to cost less, this is even more true for APS-C sensors.

Curious to learn what you think.

Canon EOS 80D And EOS 7D Mark II To Be Replaced By One New APS-C DSLR? [CW2]

Top 10 Cameras Canon Rumors Full Frame Mirrorless Camera Canon Eos R Pro Eos R Canon Lens Explorers Of Light
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We have been told (thanks) that Canon will not release a replacement for the Canon EOS 80D and the EOS 7D Mark II. Instead, there will be one model to replace both.

So, no EOS 90D nor EOS 7D Mark III? The suggestion comes from a new source, so take it with a grain of salt. It’s entirely possible, though. Given the success Canon’s mirrorless cameras are having (both EOS M and EOS R systems) it’s plausible that Canon starts investing less in APS-C DSLR development. Moreover, both replacements are long overdue.

If this rumor is reliable, expect a new Canon APS-C flagship with plenty of features, combining the best of the Canon EOS xxD series (e.g. tiltable screen) with the best of the EOS 7D series (e.g. weather sealing, sturdiness), and an entirely newly developed sensor.

We are rather cautious with rumors flooding our inbox after a major Canon announcement, since in our experience they rarely are reliable. However, it’s not the first time we hear about Canon planing to put the EOS xxD and EOS 7D line-ups together. Given the sheer amount of more or less entry-level oriented Canon APS-C DSLRs, it definitely possible.

Stay tuned.

Oldie But A Goldie: Canon EOS 7D Review (build like a tank and a bargain)

Eos 7d
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Canon EOS 7D at a glance:

  • 18.0 Megapixels
  • 3.0″ LCD
  • HD Video Recording
  • Selectable Video Exposure + Frame Rates
  • Dust & Weather Resistant
  • 100% Viewfinder
  • Self Cleaning Sensor
  • High Sensitivity (ISO 12800)
  • 8fps Burst Mode

Carl Garrard of Photographic Central reviewed the original Canon EOS 7D. The EOS 7D was a revolutionary camera in some sense, and started Canon’s professional APS-C DSLR lineup.

The EOS 7D was released in September 2009, still has a more than respectable specifications sheet. It’s still a camera that’s worth your attention, especially if you consider you can get it for as little as $260. And it’s still the rugged and rock solid camera it has always been. Say’s Carl about the build quality:

[…[ it’s a camera equivalent of a tank. It’s construction is almost 100% magnesium alloy, and feels indestructible and built to last a lifetime. Judging by the huge amount of available second hand 7D’s on the market, it seems this is completely true.

canon eos 7d
The Canon EOS 7D has a magnesium alloy

About the image quality:

So long as you don’t push shadows in the 7D too far, and get your exposure right, it’s capable of some great quality images for the price. I’d say that this is the area where the 7D shows its age most of all, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make excellent images with it.

He concludes:

So overall the Canon 7D offers a great entry into the semi pro camera world, and you can do so without emptying your wallet. In fact, I’d recommend anyone considering getting into photography to go the used camera route first (after doing some reading and homework) before spending a lot of money on a system. These days you just have too many excellent options to choose from, but if Canon is a system you are interested in, the EOS 7D is definitely worth a look.

Read the review…

You can find used EOS 7D bodies at Amazon, eBay, Adorama, B&H Photo and KEH.