Leaving a gem behind
By Albert Pedrosa
THE photography industry fed by the camera manufacturer with the latest functionality and technology has been in this cycle ever since. Photographers would mostly want the latest gear in their hand, either because it’s essential in their workflow or maybe because of the thinking it can improve one’s shots.
I should know, I’m one of the zombie photographers who always wants the latest tech in my hand. My shots did really improve, but I don’t think the camera has anything to do with it. Maybe I was inspired to shoot better because it’s top-of-the-line equipment, but no, it was all me.
A few years back, there was a growing number of photographers who shifted to mirrorless, leaving behind their DSLR for sale. I was one of the happiest persons during that time. The prices they’d sell it for was crazy. One of the gear I purchased was a Canon 5D MkII. I currently own a 6D and a 5D Mk3 at that time, but there was something with the MkII that gravitated me to buy it.
We have a special relationship with my 5D MkII. I normally just use it for my personal shots. When I’m traveling, I would mount a 50mm on it and just take shots that interest me. I’m not a landscape or travel photography expert, but I love the frame of a 50mm on a full frame in my composition. My main camera is still my cellphone especially when traveling with family, so I only use the MkII when I’m on my own.
The image quality of 5D MkII is more than what you need. The dynamic range is just simply awesome. It’s even better than my 6D. I love the build and feel in my hand when using it. The sound of the shutter is noisy, but I love it since it brings me back to my Nikon FG way back 20 years ago. Max 6400 ISO is good enough for my tripping shots.
Can I use it in my commercial shots? Yes! Will I do a better job with my 5D Mk3? Much better, yes. Despite all my praises for the MkII, it has a bad LCD screen, making it difficult to assess your shots. I have to check with my histogram every time to verify exposure. Something difficult to do when you’re shooting commercial.
The focusing points of MKII is also depressing to use in commercial shoots. The most reliable focusing point is only in the center. You got way more cross type in Mk3 that you can group together and ensure fast focusing even when the subject is moving. The quick menu access helps a lot also in Mk3 when you want to tweak your settings on the fly.
For hobbyists or those who are just in love with photography and want to be one with their camera, this is the one for you. It’s being sold very cheap now online and with low actuation, you get to enjoy a high grade image quality. I feel sorry for this old left-behind camera, so buy one and enjoy photography with not much funfare but just the bare basic art of capturing light.
Keep on shooting, everyone!
photomania.sunstar@gmail.com
www.albertpedrosa.com
