Test Centre Test Centre - Digital SLR Photography Magazine

Test Centre
Test Centre
photo Backpacks under £150
comparison test
Naneu Military
Ops Echo
Guide price
£50
photo Backpacks under £150
comparison test
M-Rock 528 Arches
Sling bag
Street price
Guide price
£45
£56
Street price
Samsonite Safaga
daypack
Guide price
£50
£62
Tamrac Aero
Speed Pack 75
Street price
Guide price
£55
£86
Kata Digital Rucksack
DR-467i
Street price
Guide price
£60
£100
Street price
Crumpler Messenger Boy
Full Photo BP
Guide price
£80
£120
Street price
£90
Outer Dimensions: 45.7x30x19cm
Inner Dimensions: 16x26.9x14cm
Weight: 1,220g
Website: www.naneubags.com
Outer Dimensions: 43x31x22cm
Inner Dimensions: 26x27x17cm
Weight: 1,400g
Website: www.cameraclean.co.uk
Outer Dimensions: 44x30x17cm
Inner Dimensions: 23x16x23cm
Weight: 750g
Website: www.hama.co.uk
Outer Dimensions: 46x34x19cm
Inner Dimensions: 28x20x14cm
Weight: 1,318g
Website: www.intro2020.co.uk
Outer Dimensions: 45x21x34cm
Inner Dimensions: 33x15x19cm
Weight: 1,400g
Website: www.kata-bags.com
Outer Dimensions: 34x42x22cm
Inner Dimensions: 38x17x40cm
Weight: 1,400g
Website: www.intro2020.co.uk
The Echo is from Naneu’s Military Ops
series and the bag we tested is a tan
colour, but is also available in black or
dark blue. The sling-strap style may not
be to everyone’s taste but, looks aside,
the bag is more than adequate for the
day-tripper photographer. Split into two
parts, the bag has a small top section for
accessories and a larger padded bottom
section able to hold your DSLR with a lens
attached and another small lens. There is
also a zip-fastened front pocket that's
ideal for packing a map and filters.
The accessories pouch is slightly on
the small side, able to hold a flashgun or
memory card reader, so perhaps not a
great choice for the photographer who
wants to take everything but the kitchen
sink on location. The Echo has some nice
touches, such as a clasp to hold keys and
a mobile phone pouch, but the latter isn’t
big enough to hold an iPhone.
M-Rock is a brand we've not heard from
before but we're sure that if the 528
Arches is anything to go by, they'll
become a popular choice for budgetconscious photographers. This compact
sling bag that can hold a DSLR and up to
four lenses. The bag boasts a ‘one-strap’
system, allowing you to access your kit by
sliding the backpack around to your
chest, rather than having to remove the
bag from your back. Although the build
quality isn’t as good as pricier brands, it's
decent enough and we're sure the 528
Arches should last a good few years.
On the bottom of the bag there's some
string lacing that will struggle to hold a
tripod, but may hold a lighter monopod,
and inside the intuitive side-entry flap,
you'll find a free lens cleaning cloth.
Although this bag can't match the likes of
Lowepro, it's a good bargain buy and
should be on your shortlist.
The Safaga is typical of the many camera
backpacks on the market that feature the
alternative cross-chest strap, rather than
two shoulder straps. It’s very compact
and also incredibly lightweight, so is very
suitable for those who plan to travel with
minimal kit: a DSLR, two lenses and a few
accessories will fill it up. There's no
denying this bag is small and light, which
may have its uses for photographers who
want a daypack to take out on a bike ride
or when rambling over the meadows. In
this sense, the bag works, because its
small size allows a lot of free movement.
However, while build quality is adequate
for small knocks, any serious bumps
could lead to your kit becoming damaged
as padding is minimal. Unfortunately,
there is no rain cover, but the outer shell
material would protect your DSLR from
drizzle while you run for cover. Small and
nimble, but lacking in protection.
The Tamrac may look like your everyday
camera bag, but it has a user-friendly
secret. The main compartment has not
one but two entry-flaps for easier access
to kit. The main entry-point is to the front
but there is one other to the side, which
makes for a very intuitive entry system as
you can put kit in or take it out in different
ways. Like the Safaga bag, there are top
compartments that can hold a flashgun
and accessories, although the Tamrac is
much larger. If you’re going to be on the
move, you’ll be happy to hear that this
bag boasts two thick, well-padded straps.
The level of protection is higher than
the Safaga, particularly on the rear of the
bag. However, the padding isn't thick
enough to protect your gear if the bag is
dropped. The Tamrac will hold a DSLR
plus three lenses and assorted
accessories, but there is no laptop
compartment, which is a shame.
Split into two main sections (one for
accessories and one for your DSLR and
lenses), this backpack is best described
as mid-sized and will comfortably hold a
DSLR plus three to four extra lenses.
There is also a padded laptop
compartment and a trolley strap.
The bright yellow interior makes finding
kit a doddle, while the shoulder straps are
well padded and comfortable enough for
the bag to be carried over a large
distance. This bag’s major plus point is
the price – we found some dealers selling
it for £80, which is a great price for a
backpack of this quality.
Additional features include a rain cover
and several zippered compartments for
holding additional accessories. The
five-year warranty can be extended if you
so wish. If you're looking for an all-round
backpack that is comfortable to wear, the
Kata ticks all these boxes and more.
There’s just one word to describe this
innovative backpack: cavernous!
Although it looks more like a parachute
than a camera bag, there is bundles of
room to hold gear inside the Messenger
Boy. The design of this bag is somewhat
upside down; the rear compartment is
just for accessories, so expect to fit your
memory cards and filters in there easily.
But it’s on the flip side of the bag where
things get interesting. The main zip
surrounds the padded area of the bag
(where is sits against your back) and
opens up to reveal a whole host of camera
space, divided up with Velcro inserts. You
can expect to fit two DSLR bodies, plus a
selection of extra lenses and flashguns in
the main section, plus a number of
smaller items such as grad filters and
cleaning cloths. There’s also a laptop
compartment and even more pouches for
extra accessories.
Verdict
Verdict
Verdict
Verdict
Verdict
Verdict
Best suited to younger photographers
looking for a everyday bag that can hold a
small DSLR kit and a few accessories.
A decent starter bag for those on a budget.
The single strap is comfortable enough but
make sure you can live with its design.
This affordable backpack is worth a look if you
need a small pack to wear during activities like
cycling. Otherwise, look elsewhere.
Understated and innovative. A good
combination and certainly worth checking
out before you part with any cash.
A real star performer that offers good value
for money, a competent range of features and
very good protection for your kit.
A unique design that certainly pays off. Well
worth trying out in a camera store to see if it
suits your way of working.
Build quality
Features
Performance
Value for money
Overall
★★★★✩
★★★✩✩
★★★✩✩
★★★★✩
★★★★✩
132 DIGITAL SLR PHOTOGRAPHY june 2010
Build quality
Features
Performance
Value for money
Overall
★★★★✩
★★★★✩
★★★✩✩
★★★★✩
★★★★✩
Build quality
Features
Performance
Value for money
Overall
★★★✩✩
★★★✩✩
★★★✩✩
★★★✩✩
★★★✩✩
Build quality
Features
Performance
Value for money
Overall
★★★★✩
★★★★✩
★★★★✩
★★★★★
★★★★✩
Build quality
Features
Performance
Value for money
Overall
★★★★✩
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
Build quality
Features
Performance
Value for money
Overall
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★✩
★★★★✩
★★★★★
june 2010 DIGITAL SLR PHOTOGRAPHY 133
Test Centre
Test Centre
main camera test
digital slr v hybrid camera
main camera test
digital slr v hybrid camera
camera test by daniel lezano
Samsung NX10
Studio Portraits
Nikon D3000
These images were taken in Paul
Ward's studio using fluorescent
tubes (see Budget Photo, page 62).
The Auto White Balance of the Nikon
gave more natural tones and in
terms of sharpness, the images are
virtually indistinguishable.
NikonD3000
Body only: £430 (Guide) / £300 (Street)
with 18-55mm vr: £500 (Guide) / £380 (Street)
IMAGE sensor: APS-C CCD (22.3x14.9mm)
IMAGE RESOLUTION: 10.2-megapixels
Monitor: 3in LCD (230,000 dots)
STORAGE: SD/SDHC
WEIGHT: 485g (without battery and card)
PHONE: 0800 230220
WEBSITE: www.nikon.co.uk
SamsungNX10
with 18-55mm OIS: £600 (Guide) / £490 (Street)
with 30mm f/2: £650 (Guide) / £550 (Street)
IMAGE sensor: APS-C CMOS (22.3x14.9mm)
IMAGE RESOLUTION: 14.6-megapixels
Monitor: 3in AMOLED (614,000 dots)
STORAGE: SD/SDHC
WEIGHT: 353g (without battery and card)
PHONE: 0845 7267864
WEBSITE: www.samsung.com/uk
THERE is little doubt of the impact that affordable,
high-quality digital SLRs have had in recent years, so
you would be forgiven in thinking that its reign at the
top of the photographic tree is unlikely to be
threatened any time soon. However, in the last year
or two, a new breed of camera has begun to emerge
on the scene, looking to steal large chunks of the
market currently dominated by DSLRs.
Hybrids, as they're commonly known, share plenty
of similarities with DSLRs, most notably boasting a
lens mount that allows lenses to be swapped in
exactly the same way as a DSLR. The biggest
difference is the lack of a reflex mirror, which offers
the benefits of a more compact and lighter camera
body, but means there is no optical viewfinder.
Panasonic and Olympus have been leading the
hybrid charge with their Micro Four-Thirds cameras
and are now joined by Samsung with its NX10. In this
month's main camera test, we chiefly look at the
Samsung NX10 but use it alongside the similarlypriced Nikon D3000, a DSLR we tested in our
November 2009 issue. Is the Samsung NX10 the
shape of things to come, or has hybrid cameras
some way to go before it can offer a real alternative to
the DSLR? Let's see what answers this test can give.
Handling & ease of use
The Samsung is clearly more compact than the
Nikon, with a far thinner and shorter body –
the result of the camera lacking a mirror or
pentaprism. Its very small size is a major bonus
for travel photographers, or those looking for a
small and lightweight camera. However, its
diminuitive received mixed views in the magazine
office, as some found it too small for their liking.
My personal view is that while the body is small,
its contours allow it to be gripped securely, while
the pronounced buttons are easy to press. I
certainly don't think the general operation of the
camera is affected by the smaller size.
In terms of working your way around the
controls and selecting different functions, both
score highly for ease of use. In fact, the control
layout on both are similar, with a top-plate dial
124 DIGITAL SLR PHOTOGRAPHY June 2010
The nx system
selecting the exposure mode
and the majority of function buttons
– including a four-way control – located on the
back around the monitor screen.
Both cameras sport a 3in monitor, but while the
Nikon has a standard LCD screen, the Samsung
uses an AMOLED, which has the key benefit of
lower power consumption. The menu systems of
both are very easy to navigate and neatly designed
(the Samsung's menu system is an improvement
over the set-up used on its DSLRs). However, the
Nikon has one trick up its sleeve that gives it the
edge in terms of ease of use, in the form of its
Guide Mode, a series of informative, interactive
screens that help beginners choose the most
appropriate settings via step-by-step instructions.
The viewfinders of these two cameras could not
be more different. The Nikon screen is typical of
entry-level DSLRs, in other words sharp and clear
but quite small, with black markings for AF points
and exposure information running along the
bottom. The Samsung's screen is electronic,
much like you'd find on a camcorder, and it takes
some getting used to looking at a 'miniature TV'.
However, after a few hours using it you do grow
accustomed to it and it does have the benefit of
displaying a large amount of information icons on
the screen. However, the problem is it's far more
difficult to use in low light, when colours and detail
become murky and dark.
Overall both the Nikon and Samsung handle
well and are easy to use, however the Nikon has
the edge thanks to the Guide Mode and the
benefits of the optical viewfinder.
Nikon 23/25
Samsung kits
The Samsung NX10 is available in
various bundles with different lenses.
As well as the 18-55mm or 30mm
kits, it is supplied with the 18-55mm
and 50-200mm zooms for £700, or
the 18-55mm and 30mm for £750.
Instant Expert: Hybrids
What do we
mean by 'hybrid'?
The term 'hybrid' camera
has been around for decades
and originally referred to
compacts boasting long
superzooms. However, more
recently, the phrase hybrid
has been used to describe
digital cameras that have
interchangeable lenses but
lack the reflex mirror. Without
the mirror, the cameras are
cheaper to make and can
be smaller and thinner than
a DSLR. Because there is
no mirror, the camera lacks
a pentaprism and optical
viewfinder. Instead, you
compose the image using an
electronic viewfinder and/or
the LCD monitor.
Samsung 21/25
Features
Both these models offer an excellent range of
features for the amateur photographer and while
there are plenty of similarities in the specification
of this pair, there are also several differences.
The Nikon has a 10.2-megapixel resolution,
which is the norm for entry-level models, but the
Samsung boasts 14.6-megapixels, which gives it a
notable advantage in terms of file sizes. It's also
worth noting that the NX10, like the D3000, uses
an APS-C sensor, which is larger than the Four
Thirds sensor used in both the Olympus and
Panasonic's range of hybrids.
A full range of exposure modes is available on
both cameras, including a wide selection of Scene
modes for complete novices, along with the core
four creative modes (program, aperture-priority,
Viewfinder screen
The Samsung's viewfinder
screen is unlike any found on
a digital SLR. The electronic
screen is packed with icons
and information to aid the
photographer, as seen in our
illustration above.
"The Samsung is clearly more compact than the
Nikon, with a far thinner and shorter body – the
result of the camera lacking a mirror or pentaprism"
shutter-priority and manual). Multi-zone, spot and
centre-weighted metering patterns are available
on both cameras. Nikon's 3D Matrix meter uses a
420-pixel sensor, while Samsung bases its
metering on 247-zones. Overrides such as
exposure compensation, AE-Lock and bracketing
are present on both, and to boost detail in
highlights when shooting high-contrast scenes,
Nikon offers its Active D-Lighting mode, while the
Samsung has a Smart Mode facility.
The autofocus systems on both cameras are
impressive but very different. Nikon's 11-point
system is a tried and tested set-up, with AF points
covering a very wide area of the frame. The NX10's
focusing is radically different to that found on
DSLRs. It uses a contrast detection system similar
to those found on compact cameras and offers a
number of ways of focusing on the subject. In
normal use, you would leave it set to its standard
15-point AF, which when shooting close-ups,
converts to a 35-point system for extra sensitivity.
As with the Nikon, you can switch to single-point
AF if you so wish or set it to continuous AF when
tracking moving subjects. The NX10 also offers a
face detection facility that is ideal when shooting
group portraits and can also be set to self-portrait
mode to aid AF when you'd like to include yourself
in the frame. When needed, you can also switch to
manual focus too. Both cameras offer a pop-up
integral flash with a comprehensive range of flash
modes, including first- or second-curtain sync and
flash exposure compensation, plus a hotshoe for
mounting a dedicated flashgun.
Other features the cameras share include
continuous shooting at three frames-per-second,
the option to shoot in Raw+JPEG, an ISO range of
100-3200 (plus Auto), a sensor-dust removal
system, a wide choice of Picture Styles, a top
One of the cornerstones of
success for DSLRs is the
system built around the
camera, so for Samsung's
NX system to succeed, it will
need to offer a real alternative
to DSLR systems. Currently,
the NX system of lenses has
three options: NX 30mm f/2
pancake; 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6
OIS and 50-200mm f/4-5.6
ED OIS zooms, while there
are two flashguns, the SEF
20A and SEF 42A. Samsung
has announced three lenses
are due for release later this
year: a 20-50mm, 20mm
pancake and a non-OIS
18-55mm. A 60mm macro
and 18-200mm are also
due but no date has been
confirmed. Also expected at
some point is a K-adaptor to
allow Pentax-fitting lenses
to be used with limitations.
So, while the NX system
offers a basic line-up, it has
significant strides to make
before it comes close to
matching DSLR systems.
Size difference The Samsung NX10 and Nikon D3000
are very similar in width, as you can see in the illustration
above, but it's the height and the depth of the body where
the Samsung shaves off several millimetres.
shutter speed of 1/4000sec and the use of SD/
SDHC cards. Unlike its DSLRs, there is no
body-integral shake reduction facility on the NX10,
instead, like Nikon, Samsung offers lenses with
built-in image stabilisers.
While there are a number of smaller differences
in terms of specification, the following are the key
ones to note. The Nikon offers a Retouch Menu
that allows for in-camera processing, with the
Miniature Effect being of particular note. The
Samsung boasts a Depth Preview function, that
works much like the traditional depth-of-field
preview button, closing down the aperture and
allowing you to get a grasp of depth-of-field using
its monitor. It also offers a HD Video function that
records movies in 720P.
Nikon 22/25
Samsung 22/25
Supplied software
The Samsung software
CD includes packages
for browsing and editing
images, as well as
converting Raw files. It's PConly, so Mac users need to
ensure their post-processing
software will have an update
to allow them to process the
NX10's Raw files.
june 2010 DIGITAL SLR PHOTOGRAPHY 125
Test Centre
Test Centre
main camera test
ENTRY-LEVEL (APS-C) digital slr WITH HD VIDEO
main camera test
ENTRY-LEVEL (APS-C) digital slr WITH HD VIDEO
camera test by daniel lezano
CanonEOS550D
Body only: £800 (Guide) / £700 (Street)
with 18-55mm IS: £900 (Guide) / £760 (Street)
IMAGE sensor: APS-C CMOS (22.3x14.9mm)
IMAGE RESOLUTION: 18-megapixels
LCD: 3in 3:2 (1,040,000 dots)
STORAGE: SD (SDHC & SDXC)
WEIGHT: 530g (without battery and card)
PHONE: 08705 143723
WEBSITE: www.canon.co.uk
HD movie modes
Not all HD video modes are
the same and the EOS 550D
boasts an impressive set-up
passed down from more
expensive models. It offers
true HD recordings (1080P)
at 30 frames-per-second and
offers both auto and manual
control of apertures and
shutter speeds.
C
anon completely changed the
photographic landscape in 2003 with the
launch of the EOS 300D. It was the first
sub-£1,000 digital SLR and pathed the way
for the DSLRs we use today. Fast-forward seven years
and Canon has achieved another major feat by
announcing an 18-megapixel DSLR boasting HD
video along with various other cutting-edge features.
It's potentially set to shake-up the competitive
entry-level sector if its performance can match its
features-list. We find out if the EOS 550D is as good
as it sounds or whether the low price has led to one
too many corners being cut.
Handling & ease of use
The small size and the curved shape of the EOS
550D is sure to be an instant hit with would-be
purchasers. Not only is the camera small, it's very
light too and the pronounced handgrip provides a
very secure hold. Used with smaller zooms like the
18-55mm kit lens or 50-200mm, it provides a very
good balance and is small and lightweight enough
not to prove obstructive to everyday use. The body
may feel slightly plasticky to some and is very
similar (although not identical) to the EOS 500D.
Despite the very high specification, the EOS 550D
has a very clean control layout that should not
prove intimidating, even to DSLR newcomers. The
top-plate is particularly clutter-free, with the left
side devoid of controls and the right side sporting
the main exposure mode dial, an on/off switch and
ISO button, with the shutter release button and
input dial placed on the top of the handgrip.
The majority of buttons is located on the rear of
the camera and is very neatly arranged, with most
positioned on the right of the large LCD monitor.
A four-way control allows access to key functions
Supplied accessories
"The extensive range of
core features on offer
still make the EOS 550D
great value for money"
such as autofocus and White Balance, with a
number of other buttons allowing access to
functions such as exposure compensation and
Live View. Above the LCD are the two main display
buttons that activate the menu and change how
information is displayed on the screen.
The LCD itself is superb, with the 3in screen
(3:2) ratio providing a bright and colourful display
that is super-sharp thanks to the very high
resolution. The on-screen menu is very
comprehensive and easy to navigate, while the
display can be adjusted to suit your preference.
The addition of the Q (Quick Control) button is
very useful too, as it allows you to scroll through
the various functions on the screen to make fast
changes using either the front input dial or the
SET button and four-way control.
The viewfinder is pretty good, with a comfy
hood to protect from glare and a dioptric
correction facility, as well as a sensor that
conserves battery power by switching off the LCD
when you look through the viewfinder.
There are very few grumbles that can be levelled
at the EOS 550D. It feels a little more plastic than
similarly-priced Nikons (but is tough nonetheless),
but other than that, the EOS 550D handles well
and is very easy to use. 23/25
Features
3in 1,040,000-dot lcd monitor
The 3:2 shape of the LCD monitor matches the image
format so it fills the screen better and the very high
resolution provides for a very sharp image display.
118 DIGITAL SLR PHOTOGRAPHY MAY 2010
In terms of resolution, nothing below £1,500
comes close to matching the 18-megapixels on
offer from the EOS 550D, which delivers a
maximum image size of 5184x3456 pixels. This
factor alone makes the EOS 550D a very tempting
proposition, but the inclusion of a fully-featured
HD video facility raises its appeal further. While the
debate continues on just how useful a movie
mode is to DSLR photographers, the fact is that
The Canon EOS 550D kit is supplied
with the following accessories:
battery charger (LC-E8), Li-ion
battery (LP-E8), wide strap, USB
cable, body cap, software CD and
instruction manual.
Live View
While the AF response of the
Canon's Live View isn't a match
for Sony's Quick AF system,
it's an improvement over
previous generations and has
a number of versatile options.
The image can be overlaid with
a histogram or gridlines and
AF modes include contrast-AF,
mirror-up and face detection.
Sharpness can be checked by
magnifying a portion of the
image by up to 10x.
Viewfinder screen
The viewfinder is identical to
that on the EOS 500D and
provides a 95% coverage. The
screen is bright and clear and
has markings for the AF point
and spot meter circle, with
exposure information running
along the base.
Connections
A rubber cover on the left side
of the body hides a number of
sockets, from top to bottom
they are as follows: External
microphone sockets; remote
release terminal; A/V Out
socket and HDMI Out.
Skin tones and sharpness
This image was converted from a
Raw file and exhibits slightly better
sharpness than the camera's JPEG.
Skin tones are smooth and faithful.
Exposure: 1/160sec at f/3.2 (ISO 400).
it's certainly proving to be a strong selling point
and it's a feature that an increasing number of
snappers are finding uses for.
Obviously, HD video is still a peripheral feature
for many, but even if you don't plan to use it, the
extensive range of core features on offer still make
the EOS 550D very good value for money.
There is a full range of exposure modes from
subject-biased programs through to semi-auto
and manual modes. It's backed up by a choice of
four metering patterns: 63-zone Evaluative, spot,
partial and centre-weighted average. There is also
a number of exposure overrides, including
exposure compensation of +/-5 stops, bracketing
(+/-2 stops) and AE Lock. It's worth noting that the
Evaluative pattern uses the iFCL system found on
the EOS 7D, which analyses focus, colour and
luminance information when calculating exposure.
Under the second tab of the menu system, you'll
also find an Auto Lighting Optimizer, which offers a
boost to the tonal range covered with three
settings available: low, medium and strong.
The AF system uses nine points arranged in a
diamond array that covers a wide area of the
frame, with the central point using the more
sensitive cross-type sensor. You can have them all
active or select them individually, with a pick of
three modes: One-Shot, AI Servo (continuous AF)
or AI Focus, which combines the two. Among the
12 Custom Functions is one (CF7), which enables
an AF-assist beam when shooting in low light.
The EOS 550D's integral flash covers lenses as
wide as 17mm and offers a range of modes,
including flash compensation, red-eye reduction,
second-curtain sync and flash exposure lock
(similar to spot metering for flash).
Supplied software
As with all Canon DSLRs,
the EOS 550D is supplied
with a comprehensive
range of software packages.
These include Digital Photo
Professional for editing and
converting Raw files, Image
Browser for reviewing shots,
Stitch for creating panoramics
and Picture Style Editor for
adding your own creations to
the camera's range of Picture
Style settings.
May 2010 DIGITAL SLR PHOTOGRAPHY 119
Test Centre
Test Centre
main camera test
ENTRY-LEVEL (APS-C) digital slr WITH HD VIDEO
main camera test
ENTRY-LEVEL (APS-C) digital slr WITH HD VIDEO
Comparison of rivals to the Canon EOS 550D
Easy reference guide for rivals with and without HD video at a similar price point
Mo
del
Canon EOS 550D
contact
08705 143723
www.canon.co.uk
Guide
Guide Price (RRP)
£800Price
(body only)
SeDnsor
Sensor type
CMOS type
Resolution
Resolution
18
(effective pixels)
(effective pixels)
Max.
image
Max. image
5184x3456
resolution (pixels) resolution (pixels)
1.6
FOCAL Length change Foc
Yes
ncrease
HD Video
Number of AF points N9
umber of AF points
63
Multi-zone
Multi-zone
metering zones
metering zones
I 100-6400 ( Hi: 12,800)
ISO rating
SO rating
SD/sdhc/SDXC
ISO
extension
Card format
Yes format
Card
Raw + JPEG
1/4000sec-30sec
Shutter speedS
Raw
+ JPEG
+ Bulb
Yes
Built-in flash
1/200sec
Flash sync
tter
peed range
IS lenses
Shake reduction
Flash
synconly
Yes
Dust reduction
3.7fps
Continuous
frame rate
3in (3:2)
LCD monitor
Shake
reduction
Yes
Live View
reduction
Lithium-ion rame rate
POWER SOURCE
Continuous
Size (MM)
LC128.8x97.5x75.3
530
Weight (grams)
Model
contact
ISO 3200
ISO 100
Low light at high ISO
Image quality at higher ISO ratings is
more than usable. While noise is
evident it isn't too pronounced and
image retain decent sharpness.
Exposure:1/200sec at f/1.8 (ISO 3200).
120 DIGITAL SLR PHOTOGRAPHY MAY 2010
"Overall, the EOS 550D
has more than enough
features for beginners
through to enthusiasts
and lacks for little."
Picture Styles are accessed via the
four-way control or menu and offer a
good choice of parameters, including
portrait, landscape and faithful. Each can
be manipulated to adjust the sharpness,
contrast, saturation and colour tone, with
three user-defined settings to save your
preferences to. Select Monochrome and as well as
sharpness and contrast, you can set a filter
(yellow, orange, red, green) and toning effect
(sepia, blue, purple and green).
The APS-C sensor lacks a shake reduction
facility, as these are built into the lenses, but offers
dust reduction in the form of a high-vibration
system and software. The EOS 550D's pixels use
the gapless micro-lens system found on the EOS
50D that increases the efficiency of each pixel.
The EOS 550D sports 14-bit image processing,
handled by its DIGIC 4 processor, which promises
smoother tonal gradation and more natural
colours. It also offers advanced noise reduction,
which may prove useful if you shoot at higher ISO
ratings (the Canon has an ISO range of 100-6400,
Canon eos 500d
Nikon D90
sony alpha 550
08705 143723
www.canon.co.uk
0800 230 220
www.nikon.co.uk
£650 (body only)
CMOS
15.1
£850 (body only)
CMOS
13.2
08705 111999
www.sony.co.uk
£620 (body only)
4752x3168
Olympus E-30
01923 831100
www.olympus.co.uk
Pentax K-7
CCD
14.2
£920 (body only)
LMOS (Four Thirds)
12.3
£1,000 body only
Cmos
14.6
4288x2848
4592x3056
4032x3024
4672x3104
1.6x
No
9
1.5x
Yes
11
1.5x
No
9
2x
No
11
1.5x
Yes
11
35
420 pixels
40
49
77
100-12,800
100-6400
200-12,800
100-3200
100-6400
SD/sdhc
Yes
1/4000sec-30sec
+ Bulb
Yes
1/200sec
IS lenses only
Yes
3.4fps
SD/SDHC
Yes
1/4000sec-30sec
+ Bulb
Yes
1/200sec
VR lenses only
Yes
4.5fps
SD/SDHC and MS
Yes
1/4000sec-30sec
+ bulb
Yes
1/160sec
Yes
Yes
7fps
CF and xD
Yes
1/8000sec-60sec
+ Bulb
Yes
1/250sec
Yes
Yes
5fps
SD/SDHC
Yes
1/8000sec-30sec
+ bulb
Yes
1/180sec
Yes
Yes
5.2fps
3in
Yes
Lithium-ion
128.8x97.5x61.9
480
3in
Yes
Lithium-ion
127x104x80
560
3in
Yes
Lithium-ion
137x104x84
599
2.7in
Yes
Lithium-ion
141.5x107.5x75
665
3in
Yes
Lithium-ion
130.5x96.5x72.5
670
0870 736 8299
www.pentax.co.uk
Lithium-ion batter (MM) (grams)
with a High setting of 12,800) and allows for
continuous shooting at up to 3.7 frames-persecond. While Custom Functions are rarely
mentioned, it's worth pointing out CF6, which
activates Highlight tone priority to boost highlight
detail, mirror lock-up (CF8) and CF12, which adds
image verification data to your shots. Finally, the
EOS 550D boasts a depth-of-field preview facility,
which while not popular with DSLR newcomers,
will find favour with traditionalist photographers.
Overall, the Canon has more than enough features
for beginners right through to enthusiasts. 24/25
Performance
The EOS 550D is designed to take good pictures
easily and that is exactly what it does. It's very fast
to power up, responsive to use and logical to
control. The result is a DSLR that's fast and easy to
use. Whether left to operate fully automatically or
with user-intervention, the EOS 550D delivers
images that are consistently well exposed and
sharp. The 63-zone Evaluative meter works and
rarely falters, with the exception of backlighting
and the occasional high-contrast scene. The
autofocus is very fast and responsive, coping well
with tricky conditions such as when shooting
close-ups and focusing in low light. Images display
excellent colour reproduction with good saturation
and sharpness is from in-camera JPEGs is very
good, although JPEGs from converted Raw files
are slightly better. Noise is very well controlled at
lower ISO ratings and images at up to ISO 1600,
while soft and with slight noise, were still usable,
with decent colour reproduction. The HD video
function works well but in truth wasn't tested in
any great depth as due to time constraints, we
tested our sample for stills photography. No
model-specific problems were noted and apart
from the White Balance struggling with tungsten,
the EOS 550D performed well in all areas. 23/25
Verdict
Canon needs the EOS 550D to be the complete all-rounder to dominate this area
of the market and judging from the two weeks I've had with the camera, I have to
say I think it is. In terms of what a would-be user expects, it ticks all the boxes.
It's small, lightweight and easy to use and its range of features are more than
enough for beginners and advanced amateurs alike. Its performance doesn't
disappoint either, delivering high-quality images at an exceptional resolution for
the price. There are several very good models at this price but none have the
all-round appeal of the EOS 550D. Regardless of whether or not you plan to use
the HD video, in terms of value-for-money, there is nothing in its class to match it
and I can see it being a runaway success and one of the year's best-sellers.
Handling & ease of use 23/25
Features 24/25
Performance23/25
Value for Money 24/25
Overall94/100
May 2010 DIGITAL SLR PHOTOGRAPHY 121
Test Centre
Test Centre
tripods under £200
comparison test
tripods under £200
comparison test
Alternativesupports
Don't want to use a tripod? Check
out these other DSLR supports
Joby Gorillapod SLR
£40
The Gorillapod is
lightweight, has a
quick release plate
and can hold up to
800g (the larger
SLR Zoom can
support 3kg). What
makes this support
special is the
flexible legs that can be splayed like a
tripod or wrapped around trees or
posts. This could be perfect for
locations where you can't use a tripod.
www.intro2020.co.uk
Manfrotto 345 kit
£65
This kit from
Manfrotto includes
a table-top tripod
(MN209) with 482
ball and socket
head, as well as an
extension stand
(MN259B)
that can be
attached to raise
the overall height to
35.5cm. It’s
designed to hold a
load of up to 2kg
and is supplied with a soft case.
This support could also be used to
hold a flashgun, a portable softbox or
a laptop tray for tethered work.
www.manfrotto.com
Cullmann Suction device
Manfrotto 055XPROB
Velbon Sherpa 750R kit
(with PH-157Q head)
Benbo Mk3 Trekker kit (with
Compact Ball & Socket head)
Giottos MTL9351B &
MH5011 head outfit
Length (closed): 55cm
Height (legs extended): 155cm
Number of leg sections: Three
Maximum load: 4kg
Weight: 2,200g
Contact: www.intro2020.co.uk
Street price
Length (closed): 84cm
Guide price
Height (legs extended): 150cm
£150
Number of leg sections: Two
Street price
Maximum load: 8kg
£110
Weight: 2,000g
Contact: www.patersonphotographic.com
Length (closed): 74cm
Height (Legs extended): 148cm
Number of leg sections: Three
Maximum load: 5kg
Weight: 2,180g
Contact: www.daymen.co.uk
The Sherpa 750R is a well-built tripod that is
strong enough to take the everyday abuse
that comes with professional use. One
interesting feature is that the central column
is wound up and down with a ratchet handle,
making the process easy and precise. The
three-way head works with just one
pan-handle, which means the tripod can be
folded down and put away very quickly. The
Sherpa’s feet are flat and rubber, which is
fine when working in the studio or indoors
but for outdoor photography, it would have
been nicer to see some spikes. It's a
reasonably lightweight tripod and the build
quality is very good too. This unit is suitable
for amateur photographers of all levels and
is a good choice if you want a reliable and
affordable general purpose tripod.
The Benbo is a unique tripod design that,
quite honestly, you’ll either love or hate.
The legs are based around one joint that can
be tightened or loosened to allow the legs to
be repositioned. Although it can take a bit of
getting used to, this system allows the
Benbo to be incredibly flexible and perfect
for shoehorning into spaces where a normal
tripod wouldn’t be able to operate. The ball
head that is supplied with this kit is
adequate, if not truly impressive. The rubber
feet come with a spiked tip, which is perfect
for digging into a grassy or gravel-based
surface and there is a hook to hang a kit bag
or ballast from. If a lot of your photographic
work is over uneven surfaces or at low-level,
then you could find the Benbo Mk3 Trekker
very much to you liking.
Although the legs may appear quite thin,
this tripod is surprisingly sturdy. The foam
grips are placed half-way down the legs,
rather than at the top, which is far better,
allowing the user to grip and move the legs
more easily. With a spirit level both on the
tripod and the head, you should have no
problems keeping your horizons level and
the centre column can be removed and
replaced in an inverted position. An extra
control feature is the centre column's head
rotation control, which locks the head,
preventing it from turning. Two further spirit
levels are found on the head, next to the
quick release plate that has a built-in safety
tab, to protect the user from accidentally
releasing their camera. Basically, this tripod
has it all and at a fantastic price, too.
Guide price
£135
£90
Guide price
£150
Street price
£105
Length (closed): 65cm
Height (legs extended): 178cm
Number of leg sections: Three
Maximum load: 7kg
Weight: 2,400g
Contact: www.manfrotto.co.uk
Giottos MTL 8261B
Guide price
£150
Street price
£120
The Manfrotto is one of the tallest and
heaviest on test. The 055XPROB boasts
flawless build quality and excellent stability,
and is complemented by a highly versatile
centre column collar that allows it to be
raised and flipped so it sits horizontally – an
incredibly useful feature, particularly for
shooting objects on the ground. Both in the
studio and on location, this unit has
everything a photographer needs from a
tripod, including the ability to hold a massive
7kg of kit. It's not the most lightweight of
tripods, but Manfrotto do make a carbonfibre version too. This tripod is as suitable
for photographers traveling to inhospitable
climates as those taking a day trip to the
duck pond. A versatile piece of kit that is
reasonably priced and very sturdy.
Length (closed): 66cm
Height (legs extended): 145cm
Number of leg sections: Three
Maximum load: 8kg
Weight: 1,500g
Contact: www.daymen.co.uk
Guide price
£180
Street price
£165
Test this tripod out in a shop and you’ll walk
away thinking: “That’s a great piece of kit!”
An incredibly sturdy tripod that is strong
enough for use in the wild British weather
yet amazingly lightweight, weighing in at
only 1,500g. There’s so much we like about
this tripod, including clever features like a
spirit level mounted on the top of the leg
section so it is viewable when your DSLR is
in position, and a spring loaded retractable
hook on the centre column – a brilliant idea
to protect it when not in use. The perfect
engineering continues with the twist-action
centre column lock, which is big and very
easy to use, especially when you’re out in
the field with freezing cold hands. The
Giottos oozes quality and is one of the most
affordable carbon-fibre options.
Carbon
fibre
£20
Lots of people are
wary of suction
clamps, but they
are a useful (and
surprisingly safe)
way of attaching
your DSLR to
anything flat, from
windows and walls
to metal surfaces. They can even be
attached to your car's roof or bonnet!
www.newprouk.co.uk
Pandora’s Box
£40
This elongated
beanbag provides
a stable support
when you’re
using a long lens
on your DSLR.
Available in three
sizes, it’s the £40
large version
(380x180x60mm) that’s best suited
to DSLRs. Each is handcrafted and
made from high quality materials.
www.jacobsdigital.co.uk
130 DIGITAL SLR PHOTOGRAPHY april 2010
Verdict
Verdict
Verdict
Verdict
Verdict
A strong tripod that should last for years and
is quick and easy to use. The Sherpa 750R is a
good safe choice for all photographers.
The Benbo may not be an immediate choice,
but if you go to a dealer and try one out, it may
just change the way you use tripods.
Relatvely lightweight with lots of spirit levels!
This is an ideal choice for the landscape
photographer and excellent value for money!
A rock solid tripod that benefits from a
versatile centre column system. A cracking
addition to any photographer's kit list.
Strong and stable, the Giottos is sure to
impress. Its stability and light weight makes it
a great buy for outdoor photographers.
Build quality
Features
Stability
Value for money
Overall
★★★★★
★★★★✩
★★★★★
★★★★✩
★★★★✩
Build quality
Features
Stability
Value for money
Overall
★★★★★
★★★★✩
★★★★★
★★★★✩
★★★★✩
Build quality
Features
Stability
Value for money
Overall
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★✩
★★★★★
★★★★★
Build quality
Features
Stability
Value for money
Overall
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★✩
★★★★★
Build quality
Features
Stability
Value for money
Overall
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
★★★★★
april 2010 DIGITAL SLR PHOTOGRAPHY 131