How much of an improvement moving from 40D to 7D?

I've been reading this forum regarding the 7D and also discussed it with some of the members too.

But now I want to ask specifically for birding how much difference would I be seeing between these two bodies? My reasoning to want to upgrade is that sometimes I find that my 40D were slow in focusing when tracking bif. I also have seen some members with 7D produce really sharp images, of course I understand skill set has a lot to do with this than equipment. I also know that people says spend money on glass instead of bodies. But I believe I already have what I feel my requirements for lens with the exception of a wide angle lens.

I have come across some cash that I wasn't expecting therefore I feel the need to spend it Christmas sales wasn't helping much either. I saw a deal on body for $1245 (CDN) and ready to pull the trigger.

Do it or not, your thoughts?

I moved from a 350D to the 7D, it is certainly an awesome birding camera.

The focusing is much better as is the cropping capability with more pixels. I went from the 50D to 7D. also, the frame rate is higher which will get you more keepers. Good luck.

Thanks guys. I just want to hear from a birders perspective.

If you have the money and want to spend it it will be an improvement over the 40D as stated above. I made the exact same switch several years ago (40D-50D-7D) and never thought twice about it. The 7D is a different beast compared to the 40D and is less forgiving if you underexpose a shot but it's worth the upgrade to me.

I went from 40d to 7d and have no regrets. Faster focus, more AF points, much better images with cropping. No regrets! If you want convincing try renting one for a day - you may even be able to get the cost back if you buy from the same place. or borrow one. Good luck

I went from a 550D (T2i) to a 7D

The FPS helps in being able to select the best position of wings with BIF.

I like the programmable dial option (C1,C2 & C3) - I have one pre set for my birding settings.

With the 100-400 the 7D is a heavy combo but nothing that a monopod can't handle.

I've not used a 40D, but my upgrade from the 550D, fo me, was the right choice.

Lawrence

im contemplating a 7d or a 1d3.
I just posted a thread about it.
good luck on your purchase.

I went from a 50d to a 7d, primarily for improved focusing for birding. Definite improvement, it was worth the upgrade.

I upgraded from a 40D. Much quicker focusing and higher frame rate. No regrets - worth upgrading. Good luck with the upgrade

I am four eyes therefore sometimes I blame my eyes for not following the subject fast enough. Or at times I am tracking in focus but only to find going out of focus when I am about to press the shutter button.

Thanks for all of your support. I really appreciate it.