Canon 5D

[Peter_White]

I've been using the 5D since a few weeks after its introduction. That was after using a 20D for several months. The meter does just what I expect it to. I use spot meter on occasion, and evaluative most of the time. Exposures are consistently good. As with any camera, it takes a while to learn how to use it to best effect. I use the 580 flash, three of them actually, for product work. The system also takes a bit of getting used to, as it's quite complex, compared to the flash systems I grew up with in the seventies. But, if you read the manual, and the online info, and practice a bit, it's easy to get good results.

Don't expect to pick up any new camera and flash system and get great results the first time out. It's just not going to happen. I suspect that much of the criticism you read online is from people who haven't taken the time to learn how the Canon system works.

[Ed Okie]

Peter White - "...Don't expect to pick up any new camera and flash system and get great results the first time out. It's just not going to happen. I suspect that much of the criticism you read online is from people who haven't taken the time to learn how the Canon system works."

Couldn't agree with you more, Peter. Complexity of today's digital camera and flash is significant... far, far different than back "in the good ol' days" (that really weren't that great). I'm well versed in cameras and professional photography, my 5D just passing the 1-year mark and that of 20,000+ images.

Truth be told... despite my skill level, I'm still learning, still experimenting on how to utilize the camera's many functions as applied to specific situations. As you accurately point out, chronic complainers typically haven't taken the time to learn, most likely have never developed, nor ever will, fundamental building-block skills.

On the flip side, Canon engineers and technical writers certainly could do far better with user manuals. One long-term observation: Canon and Adobe writers are apparently cut from the same piece of opaque cloth.

[Peter_White]

On the flip side, Canon engineers and technical writers certainly could do far better with user manuals. One long-term observation: Canon and Adobe writers are apparently cut from the same piece of opaque cloth.

Yeah, that's putting it mildly. ;-) Fortunately there's lots of excellent advice available on the net. Let Google be your guide, of course. But here's a great place to start with to help understand the Canon flash system. Flash Photography with Canon EOS Cameras - Part I.

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