The EOS 5D's full-frame CMOS sensor records 4,368 x 2,912 pixels-that's 12.8 Megapixels, larger than many other companies' top-of-the-line sensors. The same size as a 35mm image on a traditional camera, the sensor operates without a conversion factor. This is perfect for taking advantage of the spectacular optics in Canon's L-series, and will be a joy for wide-angle enthusiasts who can make the most of their wide-angle lenses. This new CMOS sensor, designed in-house by Canon, provides smooth, high-resolution images similar to the EOS-1Ds Mark II but in a more compact body. Two automatic noise reduction features maximize the effectiveness of the EOS 5D's on-chip noise reduction. Noise reduction can be activated when noise is detected or it will simply come into play on any exposure of 1 second or longer.

* As of August 2005.

The EOS 5D's new 12.8 Megapixel sensor is driven by the revolutionary DIGIC II Image Processor for unprecedented performance and image quality. Thanks to the DIGIC II Image Processor, the EOS 5D is capable of shooting up to 3 frames-per-second for up to 60 JPEG or 17 RAW images. The information captured by the sensor is processed and assembled into images of exceptional clarity and resolution. Photographers can expect precise, natural colors, spot-on white balance and speed in any number of lighting situations. By handling larger volumes of image data, the DIGIC II Image Processor also contributes to lower power consumption: photographers will discover that they can shoot all day with the EOS 5D without having to change the battery!

The EOS 5D has been designed to provide the photographer with instant feedback, saving valuable time when reviewing images. A new 2.5 inch LCD screen with approximately 230,000 pixels not only displays more information, it can be viewed at a far greater angle (170?) than many other conventional LCD screens. The full-featured shot information screen not only provides an RGB histogram, it displays the AF frames used. Magnification to check exposure and critical focus has never been faster. It is also simple to jump quickly in image intervals up to 100. Menus are accessed at the touch of a button, and feature larger, easier to read text than previous models. Whether changing color parameters, setting up custom functions, organizing folders, setting white balance, or any other feature, the new screen is designed with the professional in mind. Photographers get to their information quickly, so they never lose a shot.

"Picture Style" settings simulate the characteristics of different film styles, including Snapshot mode, for punchy, print-from-the-camera color, Portrait mode, for softer, more natural skin tones; Landscape, for vivid blues and greens and overall sharpness, plus Neutral, Faithful and Monochrome, which can be customized to emulate color filters with black and white film.

In addition to 9 different AF points for locking focus on subjects, even if they are not in the center of the composition, the EOS 5D features 6 Supplemental points around the center AF point which help to ensure an even greater degree of focus accuracy when tracking a moving subject. This feature is significant for sports photographers, as well as anyone who needs to keep focus locked on an unpredictable subject. The Supplemental AF points are not displayed in the viewfinder, and they cannot be manually selected. However, they are used in AI Servo AF mode when the EOS 5D is set for automatic focusing point selection, and also when the center focusing point is selected together with Custom Function 17-1.

The EOS 5D has a solid and substantial feel that complements its compact dimensions. The camera body is constructed of a magnesium-alloy known for its lightweight and ultra-rigid strength. The EOS 5D also boasts a newly developed, high-speed and durable shutter unit that was designed to meet the demanding requirements of a full frame sensor in a relatively compact body. With a top shutter speed of 1/8000 sec. and with a remarkable 100,000-cycle shutter life, it truly is a camera built to professional standards.