1dmkii big learning curve?

Is there a significant learning curve or time period needed to learn the 1dMKii after using the 20D extensively?

Yeah interested to know this also. And what about those using both a 20D and 1D at the same shoot - how easy is it transitioning back and forths between bodies?

When I first got mine I thought I was going to be overwhelmed in trying to learn everything that I needed to know quickly. In reality it didn't take long at all.

The biggest issue was getting used to having to use 2 hands for the menu systems. That took awhile but once you get the hang of it, its a piece of cake.

See these reviews for details on the differences in controls and features.
http://www.steves-digicams.com/2004_revi​ews/1d_mk2_pg2.html

http://www.steves-digicams.com/2004_revi​ews/20d_pg2.html

There are some considerable differences in controls with the 1D series.

The hardest thing I found was the button comination for changing settings but you soon learn.

Just some weight lifting to get used to hauling it around

uktrailmonster wrote:
Just some weight lifting to get used to hauling it around

lol I forgot to mention that bit

What a healthy coincidence. I critisized the 20D for being such a noob menu. Its like those Sony PlayStation 1 console. Its ok,colorful and simple. But not really pro like. Very slow because you can only use 1 hand.

Well, im feelin a little more relaxed now. I just bought the 1dmkii

It's not really a question of getting over the learning curve of the 1D2 since it's not that big a deal to learn. It's more a question of how long it's going to take to get used to the way you operate it, needing to use two hands for almost all operations whereas, with the 10D, 20D and other similar cameras, you can operate the camera with just one hand for most functions.

agree with Leo. I like my new 1D but the interface is cumbersome. The user interface of the 20D is smooth and fast, and most settings can be made without taking your eye from the veiwfinder. With the 1D, you have to lower the camera and look at it while using two hands. Though it didn't take long to learn, I wouldn't want to bounce back and forth between the two cameras as they are different enough to prevent you from being in-the-groove with both.

It's simple. Took me all of 5 minutes to work it out. I think I prefer the ease of use of the 20d/5d though.

Leo, my ambidextrous skills arent too shabby. But I understand what you are saying. How long before I am accustomed to dual hand usage as opposed to the single that im used to.

If you can walk while chewing gum, and if you can rub your belly while patting your head, you can master it. It's not hard, it's just different. Some 1D series owners wish they had the 20D/5D interface, and want that on future models. I don't know if they represent a majority, but I have seen quite a few express that viewpoint, so they obviously feel the 20D/5D user interface is simpler to work with, but I haven't heard of anyone selling a 1D series just to get the simpler interface . . . .

One benefit of the combo button presses required to change settings is that is almost impossible to accidentally change a setting...I like that. But, overall, I think it only took me a week to get used to the thing. It's an awesome camera, and after more than a year with mine now, when I shoot with my 10D (backup body) it feels really funny to me.

Sheldon's right - it takes a bit of getting used to, and at first, you'll have to think through each operation. But, once you get accustomed to the interface, it can be done without forethought. Just hold the button and turn the wheel or dial.