1dM2 Question

[GyRob]

on my 20d with the 1.6 crop my 300mm = 480 but the 1d with the 1.3 crop = 390 so to get the same size photo on the monitor the 1d has to be enlarged more so does that mean it wont look as good as the d20.
hope this isn't a dumb question.

[Rokkorfan]

For use with a telephoto the 20D will give you a better result if you feel you need to crop the 1D MkII image. The advantage of the 1D MkII crop factor is for general photography where wider angles are required, and portraiture where you want the perspective of a longer lens, rather than say using a 50mm as a portrait lens.

Where the 1D MkII really shines over the 20D though is in issues like viewfinder brightness and size, build quality, ability to use CF cards and SD Cards (for in camera back-up if required), AF down to f/8, 8.4 fps and a bigger buffer, and 1 Series handling and weather resistance.

Image quality is effectively identical (unless you need to crop for a longer image to make the 1.3x sensor match the 1.6x sensor). Pretty much, if you are asking why choose a 20D over a 1D MkII you probably won't need the 1D MkII.

Cheers,

Antony

[GyRob]

thank you , i do have the 20D and mostly need the telephoto end for Aircraft shots i will stay with it for now as it does do the job fine and 8.4fps is not needed nor f8 AF.
thanks again
Rob.

[Rokkorfan]

Hi Gyrob,

If you are into aircraft shots, have a look at these shot a couple of weeks ago with the 1D MkII, 300mm f/2.8 IS L and 1.4x II converter:

http://www.rokkorfiles.com/Airshow%202005.htm

Even with significant crops the shots come out nicely.

Cheers,

Antony

[GyRob]

they are spot on and great shots , here in the uk getting a sky that clear is so rare makes me want to move :)

[KennyG]

Image quality is effectively identical (unless you need to crop for a longer image to make the 1.3x sensor match the 1.6x sensor). Pretty much, if you are asking why choose a 20D over a 1D MkII you probably won't need the 1D MkII.

The 1D MK-II's sensor has a better dynamic range giving more detail in shadow and highlighted areas, so the image quality is not identical.

[CyberDyneSystems]

What the 20D is offering is higher pixel density which arguably means that you will get more detail in a smaller area,. which is better for telephoto use especially.

However,. once we get "too dense" with the pixels,. we can start to get a quality issue. Whether or not this is an issue in this camparison or not... it can be argued that the 20Ds higher pixel density is a disadvantage as it means that each pixel is not as good.

Either argument is valid as far as theory goes... ;)