Canon EOS 5D 12.8 MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens

To buy or not to buy in 2012?MY QUALIFICATIONS:I am a photographer, and have been for about 4 years now. I'm in between semi-pro and pro, and my main focus is wedding photography and engagements. I would say that about 90% of everything I shoot involves a person in some way, so please keep this in mind when reading my review. I am also a bit of a gear-head, in the sense that I love to stay current on knowing about the latest technologies. It is also important to know, however, that I do not necessarily believe that the latest and greatest advancements in photo tech are actually necessary, nor have I ever pre-ordered photography gear personally.INTROI first used the 5D in 2010 (well after its release) when a friend lent me their camera for shooting a wedding. I shot my first weddings on a couple of rebels - a big mistake. At the time I didn't realize how important camera cache, AF speed and low-light performance all were in wedding photography and it was an experience I didn't want to repeat if I could help it. The 5D completely changed the way I shot, and in my biased opinion, helped me become a better photographer. The first wedding I shot on one was a dream! Just so you don't think that I was awed by the step up alone, I have shot with the 5D MkII, 5D MkIII, ID MkII, IDs MkII and the 7D since then.BUILD QUALITYNow as another reviewer has mentioned, Canon came under fire from some in regards to the build quality...I won't rehash what has already been said on this topic but allow me to express how much I enjoy the build quality of the 5D. It is not the same as the 1D series that's for sure (I also owned a 1Ds MkII Full Frame), however it beats the rebels and even the XXD series by a LONG shot. The camera feels very sturdy in the hand, and has a nice weight to it (no doubt due to the alloy body). I have owned two of these cameras, and borrowed one extensively (thanks Mike!) and overall have had very few issues with all three copies. One camera did suffer from the well-documented mirror issue (glue coming undone) however I had a backup camera with me, and Canon glued the mirror free of charge (including a CLA to boot)! For those of you with 5Ds, please be aware that this is STILL being done, even if your camera is out of warranty.FEATURESNow, this is perhaps the most controversial point in digital photography. Allow me to let you in on a little secret: camera companies want to make money more than they want to make cameras. Boom - I'll give you a minute to regather your exploded head. I jest, however at the same time I am dead serious. Even the noble photographic giants such as Canon and Nikon have to answer to shareholders. The way they stay on top? New features. Some of them are super handy, HD video for example (if you shoot it) or even Live View (which I hated at first). Many of them, are absolutely worthless. Who needs a camera that goes up to 160,000ISO? I have a rule to never shoot above 800ISO, and even then only in good lighting conditions! I say all this to say, don't get caught up in the gear games - you don't need a camera that was made in the last 6 months to make good pictures. Here is a short list of features, that make the 5D classic a contender in 2012:- Full Frame. This is the main reason why most people buy this camera.- 12.8 MP - enough to make great-looking poster size prints. Do you really need more?- Extended ISO of 50-3200, more than you'll ever need.- Large and bright viewfinder, with 97% coverage- 17 RAW frames at 3FPS- FANTASTIC image qualitySHOULD YOU GO NEWER?There are a few reasons why you might want a newer camera. Now keep in mind, we are talking about a price jump of about $1000 for the 5D MkII (I'm ignoring APS-C cameras). Here are a few reasons why the jump might be worth it. If you find yourself nodding and pining for these features, then by all means go ahead. If, however, like me you don't think these are necessary for great pictures, move on!- Video capabilities- Larger LCDs with better resolutions- Live View- Faster FPS- Slight increase in image quality- Higher ISO, color bit rate and dynamic rangeIMAGE QUALITYI have to say that some of my best work has been done on the Canon 5D. Sure the 50D and 7D have newer sensors and processors, but when it comes down to it I can spot a shot from my 5D out of a batch of mixed files any day. Let's be honest for a second: image quality depends more on the glass you are using and the light available than your camera sensor. Sure, you will know if a picture was taken with an old Canon D60 (never heard of it? eBay has them for a hundred bucks), but overall the 5D keeps up with much never cameras. The full frame sensors allows for much nicer bokeh from closer up (google "full frame better bokeh" for a full explanation), something that is invaluable to a wedding photographer who doesn't get to control his or her environment.OVERALLI got my 5D in good used condition for almost the same price of an excellent used condition 50D (which my wife uses), but I rarely finding myself wanting to use the 50D. My wife gets some great shots and it is a fabulous camera, but having full frame really is that important to me. Will I upgrade to the 5D MkII/III? Of course I will. I do not believe, however, that it is worth a business loan. I have been using the 5Ds now for almost three years, and I will continue to do so until (a) they die, (b) I receive a surprise inheritance, or (c) Canon comes out with a full frame camera with new features I can't live without. If you are a serious photographer on a budget, don't let the manufacturing date scare you! The 5D is still a workhorse and I have met countless pro photographers that use them to this day. As long as my clients keep smiling in delight when they see their wedding pictures, I will continue to use this fine camera.A TIPThere is only one grip on Amazon for this camera (BG-E4 equivalent) that is vastly over-priced. I found a Jenis grip on eBay for less than forty dollars. It ships from China, however it has given me no problems whatsoever, and is of the same quality as any other third-party grip I have used (and I have owned five different brands).SUGGESTED ACCESSORIESI have used or I own everything listed below, and have rated them at 4 stars or above:Remote Shutter Release Cord for Canon EOS 5D (I use this for astrophotography - excellent!)2 Pack of High Capacity Batteries For Canon EOS 5D (less durable, but single charge lasts just as long as OEM)Jenis Battery Grip for Canon 5D (Black) (as mentioned above, search for this elsewhere!)Canon Ee-D Focusing Screen for EOS 5D (essential for good composition!)

While newer cameras boast higher megapixel counts and advanced features, the original Canon 5D, even in its used, first-generation form, remains a remarkable piece of photographic history and a surprisingly capable tool for today's photographer.There's a certain magic to the 5D Classic's full-frame sensor. It delivers images with a unique, almost film-like quality, characterized by beautiful tonal gradations and a richness that's hard to replicate. The 12.8 megapixels, while seemingly modest by modern standards, are more than sufficient for most print and digital applications.One of the most appealing aspects of the 5D Classic is its simplicity. The menu system is straightforward and intuitive, allowing you to focus on capturing the moment rather than wrestling with complex settings. It's a camera that encourages you to slow down and appreciate the art of photography.The build quality is exceptional. This camera feels solid and robust in the hand, a testament to Canon's commitment to durability. Even after years of use, many 5D Classics continue to function flawlessly.Of course, it's important to acknowledge its limitations. It lacks modern features like live view, video recording, and advanced autofocus systems. However, for photographers who prioritize image quality and a classic shooting experience, these omissions are easily overlooked.The 5D Classic's used market price makes it an incredibly attractive option for budget-conscious photographers looking to step into full-frame photography. It's a gateway to a world of stunning image quality without breaking the bank.In conclusion, the Canon 5D Classic, despite its age, continues to impress with its image quality, simplicity, and robust build. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of well-designed photographic tools. If you're looking for a used full-frame camera that delivers exceptional results and a classic shooting experience, the 5D Classic is a worthy contender.