Product Description
Canon EOS cameras have long been the top choice of serious photographers worldwide. Celebrated for their user friendly design, professional precision and uncompromising quality, this new family of EOS ELAN cameras is faster, sharper, more rugged and more intuitive than ever before - with many new features that outperform any other camera in their class.EOS ELAN 7E is the latest camera to feature Canon's exclusive Eye Controlled autofocus. Quite simply, eye control is the fastest, easiest method of selecting a focus point. The autofocus tracking speed of the EOS ELAN 7E rivals that of the leading top-of-the-line cameras available today. With a top shutter speed of 1/4000 of a second and fastest in its class 4 fps film advance, ELAN 7E is a prime choice for demanding sports or wildlife photographers. The Canon EOS line boasts a new ergonomic design. ELAN 7E is now smaller and more compact, with controls placed intuitively, in a user-friendly design, for a superior shooting experience. The construction of the camera body is newly reinforced, with strategically placed metal top and front cover plates, for rugged reliability in any environment. New shooting possibilities open when you shoot in silence. WhisperDrive transport brings near silent shooting, when used with Canon's exclusive USM lenses. In most any situation you find yourself, the versatile selection of exciting system accessories and lenses for the Canon EOS ELAN will meet your needs.
Amazon.com Product Description
The Canon Elan 7 E Date features the eye-controlled focus system, the fastest means of focusing and metering a photographer can find. By using more focusing points and greater off-center coverage than other cameras in its class, this camera is able to take an exact reading in approximately 1/20 of a second. When the photographer brings the camera to their eye, their glance is tracked by the focusing system, allowing framing and focusing to become a single uninterrupted creative process. An easy, one-time calibration is all that's needed to activate the eye-controlled focus system. Once this calibration is complete, the camera is able to precisely detect which part of the viewfinder the photographer is using. It then automatically focuses the lens with amazing accuracy.
This system delivers crisp, sharply focused images whether the camera is in a vertical or horizontal position. The Canon Elan 7 is even able to store the distinct calibrations of up to five different photographers. Using an EF 300mm f/2.8 IS lens, it can track a subject moving at 186 mph until it's a mere 66 feet from the camera. This fast-focus system, combined with the ability to shoot at almost 4 frames per second, makes the Canon Elan 7 the perfect choice for capturing those demanding sporting events or special occasions when you don't want to miss a single moment. And considering its continuous shooting speed, the Elan 7 is also remarkably quiet. This feature gives the photographer the opportunity to shoot the perfect wildlife scene without disturbing or scaring the subject.
Part of the Elan 7's focusing system is the seven-point wide-area autofocus. The eye-controlled focus system was designed to work especially with this precision feature. Seven focusing points are arranged in a wide cross pattern with a central "cross-type" sensor. The wider-than-usual area gives the photographer the ability to achieve a remarkably sharp, focused image instantly. This function works whether the subject is off-center, stationary, in motion, in low light, or even in low-contrast situations. The shot will still come out sharp and crisp, and without the need to recompose the shot. By using the focusing-point selection keys, the user is able to select any of the seven focus points simply by pressing a key. Representing a bold innovation in speed and usability, this feature gives an additional amount of image control back to the photographer.
A highly advanced metering system, comprised of 35-zone evaluative metering sensors, is linked to the seven focusing points. Whether shooting indoors or outside, day or night, a seamless integration of exposure and focus assures remarkable clarity and contrast in any image. This system gives the photographer accurate control over situations that combine light and shadow or that feature strong backlight. When metering subjects against very dark or very bright backgrounds, partial-area metering measures 10 percent of the viewfinder around the chosen focusing point. This provides accurate image results when dealing with shadows or highlights. The photographer can also use the Elan 7's center-weighed metering function. This mode places greater emphasis on what it reads as the center of the frame by measuring the entire scene. No matter which function the photographer chooses, precision metering is guaranteed--whether the camera is in a vertical or horizontal position.
Giving the photographer even more creative control is the command dial. This allows manual control light, speed, aperture, and depth of field. Shutter priority lets the photographer choose the shutter speed, while the Elan 7 automatically selects the correct aperture. This function is especially useful when capturing action shots. With aperture priority, the photographer picks the aperture setting while the camera chooses the correct shutter speed. This is helpful when control over the depth of field is essential. Using the eye-controlled focus system to define the "sharp zone," the photographer can calculate the precise depth of field automatically. It's even possible to check the depth of field using the preview button. For added creativity, and to help everyone remember when all those special occasions took place, this particular model of the Canon Elan 7 will let the photographer print the date and time on the final image.
Customer Reviews:
Best of all.......2006-09-28
Talk about bang for your buck. This camera has everything you'd expect from a mid-range camera and some you usually only find on high-end cameras. The eye control focus works great though you do need to calibrate it many times in different lighting conditions. The controls are well placed and easy to use. The custom functions are relatively simple to set and allow you to customize how the camera operates. Functions like the true mirror lock-up and the 4 fps advance speed help place this camera securely in the top ranks of its class. The thing that surprised me the most was the near silent operation. Even on rewind you can only hear it if you place your ear near the body (unless of course you choose to rewind at the faster speed). Of course there are options I'd love to see added like a PC cable port and an interchangeable focusing screen but thats why there are pro class cameras. Like I said before, this camera is hard to beat for the price.
Died after 2.5 years.......2004-08-23
Till yesterday I was all praises for this camera and would have given 5 stars. Its got the features for a beginner to reach a serious amature role with low cost. Well yesterday it died on me. I have had the camera for 2.5 years and shot probably around 100 rolls with it.
Now its a great camera. Its given me some awesome pictures. I like the metering except the fact that is does not have spot metering. This is a disadvantage. More over the the partial region of the camera is not well defined. I have the eye control. 85% it works and its great. But it does fail and irritates me at times. Low light focus is not so good but with the speedlight(420EX) it focus in a sec. What a difference. The depth of preview button is at time hard to find
I love the fash 4 frames per second. I used it twice but it gave me great results. I love the feel of the camera.
With all its defects I love the camera and might go in for the same.
Very Happy Canon User.......2003-11-21
I read the previous reviews and agree with most everything. This is a great camera that can be easily used by a beginner but has the features wanted by experienced pros.
The one thing I was disapointed in is that it did not say anywhere, until I already purchased the "E" model and read the manual, that the EYE CONTROL DOES NOT WORK IF YOU WEAR CONATCT LENSES. The "E" model was a waste of money for me due to this and that is the reason I gave this camera 4 out of the 5 stars.
Fantastic beginners camera.......2003-09-17
For the record, I have been using this camera for over 2 years now and I shoot mainly nature and people.
The Canon Elan 7E/EOS30 is a fantastic all around camera for beginners/intermediate photographers.
At the time of buying this camera, there was a confusion whether to choose the rebel or the elan 7E. I would very strongly recommend anyone to consider buying the intermediate Elan 7 as compared to the basic rebel. The rebel has a very "plasticky" feel to it and if I remember correctly, there is a single knob to set both the aperture and the shutter speed. Once you move away from shooting it as point and shoot, you will realize that the single knob can get incredibely irritating.
As for the "E" i.e. eye focus, I never really used it too much but am planning to shortly. So you can save some money by getting the Elan 7, if you so wish since the Eye feature is essentially just a gimmick. Now I also wish I had got the date feature, since down the road it might be an useful tool. (say, 40 yrs, from now, you want to know when the picture was taken ;) )
The most wonderful thing about the ELan 7E is that it allows you to grow with it...It offers a whole bunch of features, that I think will take you from a beginning stage (point and shoot) to a more advanced stage (total manual) phase. After shooting over 20 rolls of film and slide, I still find myself reading the manual and noting down some new feature to try out on my next roll.
Small piece of advice for beginners.. I realize now that the money you spend on lenses might be worth almost more than the money you spend on the camera. Coz even the best camera cannot produce a decent picture with a bad lens. I would strongly recommend avoiding the standard lens(28-90mm, I think) that comes bundled with it (even if the total package is cheap). I bought the body separate and a canon 28-105 f/3.5-4.5 and I have never regretted the decision. Its a relatively sharp lens at both ends and is always mounted on my camera for shooting almost anything. If you are on a tight budget get the Canon 50 mm 1.8 II which sells in most shops ... I am now slowly saving up for a L series lens.
Besides the usual preset options like portrait,landscape,closeup,sports,night mode,the Elan 7E offers a whole bunch of features that I found really useful. Here are some of them,
1) Depth of field preview button.
2) DEP (depth of field AE) - this really helps if your lens does not have a distance scale (like the 28-105mm). Say for e.g., you need to preset the depth of scale from 0 to infinity, this feature helps you to achieve that effect without the distance scale on your lens.
3) AE lock
4) Exposure compensation - you can set the exposure compensation upto + or - 2 stops in half stop increments and you can do it without taking your eyes of the viewfinder.
5) Auto exposure bracketting - for those really important pictures that you dont want to miss :)
6) bulb exposures - allows you to have as long a exposure as you want. I found this really useful. I hear that some cameras have limitations on how long they can be exposed. (RS - 60E3 shutter release cable is really useful for this)
7) multiple exposures
8) mirror lockup etc etc etc.
The built in flash suffices for all my needs. Lots of people recommended the battery pack, but I would suggest anyone buying this camera to first check it out themselves. I find the grip good enough for me.
All in all, I just love this camera. I have been having great fun for past 2 yrs with it and am confident of having lots more fun for few more years at least and I dont think you will get a better performance for this price...If you have the money, just get it & start shooting !!
Strengths:
1) Solid feel and good looks
2) Enough bells and whistles to keep you curious and interested for quite some time.
3) focussing point selection with seven focussing points (auto or manual)
4) whole bunch of lenses to choose from
5) built in flash
6) Rugged build - have used extensively in real hot weather(AZ) as well as sub zero temperatures (MI)
7)Relatively light and compact.
8)Best price/performance ratio
Weaknesses:
1) I feel an LCD would have been invaluable tool to have during low-lit situations
2)Lack of spot metering - this is one feature I would have loved to use.
3)Auto focus fails to activate when you try to shoot closeups(macros), cloudy landscapes or under low light situations
4) Depth of field preview button is hidden...I have never been able to activate it without taking my eyes off the viewfinder !
Fantastic beginners camera.......2003-09-17
For the record, I have been using this camera for over 2 years now and I shoot mainly nature and people.
The Canon Elan 7E/EOS30 is a fantastic all around camera for beginners/intermediate photographers.
At the time of buying this camera, there was a confusion whether to choose the rebel or the elan 7E. I would very strongly recommend anyone to consider buying the intermediate Elan 7 as compared to the basic rebel. The rebel has a very "plasticky" feel to it and if I remember correctly, there is a single knob to set both the aperture and the shutter speed. Once you move away from shooting it as point and shoot, you will realize that the single knob can get incredibely irritating.
As for the "E" i.e. eye focus, I never really used it too much but am planning to shortly. So you can save some money by getting the Elan 7, if you so wish since the Eye feature is essentially just a gimmick. Now I also wish I had got the date feature, since down the road it might be an useful tool. (say, 40 yrs, from now, you want to know when the picture was taken ;) )
The most wonderful thing about the ELan 7E is that it allows you to grow with it...It offers a whole bunch of features, that I think will take you from a beginning stage (point and shoot) to a more advanced stage (total manual) phase. After shooting over 20 rolls of film and slide, I still find myself reading the manual and noting down some new feature to try out on my next roll.
Small piece of advice for beginners.. I realize now that the money you spend on lenses might be worth almost more than the money you spend on the camera. Coz even the best camera cannot produce a decent picture with a bad lens. I would strongly recommend avoiding the standard lens(28-90mm, I think) that comes bundled with it (even if the total package is cheap). I bought the body separate and then a canon 28-105 f/3.5-4.5 lens and I have never regretted the decision. Its a relatively sharp lens at both ends and is always mounted on my camera for shooting almost anything. If you are on a tight budget get the Canon 50 mm 1.8 II which sells in most shops for under $100. I am now slowly saving up for a L series lens.
Besides the usual preset options like portrait,landscape,closeup,sports,night mode,the Elan 7E offers a whole bunch of features that I found really useful. Here are some of them,
1) Depth of field preview button.
2) DEP (depth of field AE) - this really helps if your lens does not have a distance scale (like the 28-105mm). Say for e.g., you need to preset the depth of scale from 0 to infinity, this feature helps you to achieve that effect without the distance scale on your lens.
3) AE lock
4) Exposure compensation - you can set the exposure compensation upto + or - 2 stops in half stop increments and you can do it without taking your eyes of the viewfinder.
5) Auto exposure bracketting - for those really important pictures that you dont want to miss :)
6) bulb exposures - allows you to have as long a exposure as you want. I found this really useful. I hear that some cameras have limitations on how long they can be exposed. (RS - 60E3 shutter release cable is really useful for this)
7) multiple exposures
8) mirror lockup etc etc etc.
The built in flash suffices for all my needs. Lots of people in this website recommend the battery pack, but I would suggest anyone buying this camera to first check it out themselves. I find the grip good enough for me.
All in all, I just love this camera. I have been having great fun for past 2 yrs with it and am confident of having lots more fun for few more years at least and I dont think you will get a better performance for this price...If you have the money, just get it & start shooting !!
Strengths:
1) Solid feel and good looks
2) Enough bells and whistles to keep you curious and interested for quite some time.
3) focussing point selection with seven focussing points (auto or manual)
4) whole bunch of lenses to choose from
5) built in flash
6) Rugged build - have used extensively in real hot weather(AZ) as well as sub zero temperatures (MI)
7)Relatively light and compact.
8)Best price/performance ratio
Weaknesses:
1) I feel an LCD would have been invaluable tool to have during low-lit situations
2)Lack of spot metering - this is one feature I would have loved to use.
3)Auto focus fails to activate when you try to shoot closeups(macros), cloudy landscapes or under low light situations
4) Depth of field preview button is hidden...I have never been able to activate it without taking my eyes off the viewfinder !
Amazon.com Product Description
The Canon Elan 7 uses seven focusing points, arranged in a wide cross pattern with a central "cross-type" sensor. The wider-than-usual area gives the photographer the ability to achieve a remarkably sharp, focused image instantly. This function works whether the subject is off-center, stationary, in motion, in low light, or even in low-contrast situations. The shot will still come out sharp and crisp, and without the need to recompose the shot. By using the focusing-point selection keys, the user is able to select any of the seven focus points simply by pressing a key. Representing a bold innovation in speed and usability, this feature gives an additional amount of image control back to the photographer.
A highly advanced metering system, comprised of 35-zone evaluative metering sensors, is linked to the seven focusing points. Whether shooting indoors or outside, day or night, a seamless integration of exposure and focus ensures remarkable clarity and contrast in any image. This system gives the photographer accurate control over situations that combine light and shadow or that feature strong backlight. When metering subjects against very dark or very bright backgrounds, partial-area metering measures 10 percent of the viewfinder around the chosen focusing point. This provides accurate image results when dealing with shadows or highlights. The photographer can also use the Elan 7's center-weighed metering function. This mode places greater emphasis on what it reads as the center of the frame by measuring the entire scene. No matter which function the photographer chooses, precision metering is guaranteed--whether the camera is in a vertical or horizontal position.
Giving the photographer even more creative control is the command dial. This allows manual-control light, speed, aperture, and depth of field. Shutter priority lets the photographer choose the shutter speed, while the Elan 7 automatically selects the correct aperture. This function is especially useful when capturing action shots. With aperture priority, the photographer picks the aperture setting while the camera chooses the correct shutter speed. This is helpful when control over the depth of field is essential. It's even possible to check the depth of field using the preview button.
Product Description
Canon EOS cameras have long been the top choice of serious photographers worldwide. Celebrated for their user-friendly design, professional precision and uncompromising quality, this family of EOS ELAN cameras is faster, sharper, more rugged and more intuitive than ever before - with many new features that outperform any other camera in their class.The autofocus tracking speed of the EOS ELAN 7 rivals that of the leading top-of-the-line cameras available today. With a top shutter speed of 1/4000 of a second and fastest in its class 4 fps film advance, the ELAN 7 is a prime choice for demanding sports or wildlife photographers. The Canon EOS line boasts a new ergonomic design. The ELAN 7 is now smaller and more compact, with controls placed intuitively, in a user-friendly design, for a superior shooting experience. The construction of the camera body is reinforced, with strategically placed metal top and front cover plates, for rugged reliability in any environment. The shooting possibilities open when you shoot in silence. WhisperDrive transport brings near silent shooting, when used with Canon's exclusive USM lenses. In most any situation you find yourself, the versatile selection of exciting system accessories and lenses for the Canon EOS ELAN will meet your needs.
Customer Reviews:
I just love my Elan 7!.......2004-06-08
After living with a manual focus camera for 20 years, I'd splurged and bought myself the Canon Rebel and a couple lenses. I was happy with it, but it lacked some features I was seeking. Enter the Elan 7. Oh my! Once I learned how to use the multiple frame feature, there was no stopping me! I stopped getting so-so shots of my sons in their soccer games, and was getting at least one spot on perfect out of the two or three. This alone makes the camera worth its price for me, but there are other aspects I like as well.
The camera just feels solid to me. My Rebel was lightweight, but I always worried that came with a price. I use my camera often in an active way, hiking in our bluffs, riding my bike through the wetlands and cross country skiing in the rare years we get enough decent snow cover. The camera can handle these kinds of conditions, and I've always had nice photos come back to me. I also appreciate the very high shutter speeds it affords me. I've nearly stopped the action of hovering hummingbirds with this camera, it's that fast. It's also fairly quiet as SLRs go, another plus for those who need that feature. The rewind is almost silent, which helps when I am stalking birds and my film runs out, as it invariably does.
There were a few little glitches in going from the Rebel to the Elan for me. Although they are both EOS cameras, one can't assume that the Elan is just a more expensive Rebel and will operate as such. For one thing, the film counter system is completely reversed. The Rebel counts down, the Elan counts up.
The benefit to this is that I always get 25 exposures with my Elan, whereas 24 was the max with the Rebel. Yes, film is cheap, but it does add up!
Also, the creative controls work differently. I'd become very used to setting the Rebel to under or over expose, and needed to relearn the way to set that with the Elan. On the plus side, with the Elan, there is a setting that will allow for autobracketing, so that you can achieve the same thing with less thought, once you know that setting.
The kit lens was a nice plus as well. My Rebel had 35mm as its widest angle, and the 28mm allows a little more range for me. I've had my Elan now for three years, and I am still learning to take full advantage of all it has to offer. From a camera junkie, that is high praise indeed.
My main camera.......2004-01-13
I bought this as my first (and as of now, only) auto-focus SLR. I'm generally pleased with the camera: the metering is fine and it's fairly problem free.
I do have one gripe: low-light focusing. Unless you have an attached flash (I use a 550 Speedlite), low-light focusing is a pain. It doesn't come with a built-in infra-red light for such situations and instead, fires the flash like a strobe. Not exactly inconspicuous.
Other than that, a good camera for more experience amatures like myself.
Excellent camera!.......2003-09-14
I purchased the Elan 7 about two months ago as a refurbished unit. Unfortunately, the camera had a defective feature button. But the problem was quickly resolved by sending the camera back for a replacement.
Since then, I have shot quite a few rolls of film. I have been impressed with each roll (except the ones I screwed up by not being careful). The metering is fairly accurate- I feel I can trust what it tells me. While in manual focus, however, it only meters the center focusing point, which can be a pain at times. But, the metering is displayed in both the viewfinder and the LCD display, which is quite handy.
The camera is loaded with features- more than I really need. If you need help taking pictures, this camera is for you. It has a setting for almost every circumstance of shooting. I prefer the manual mode, which gives the user complete control.
The included lens is nice. Certainly not the best lens out there, but for starters it works great. The auto-focusing happens instantly, but beware it has a hard time in low light. One bonus is it goes down to 28mm, nice and wide. And you can zoom to 100mm within about a foot of a subject, bringing things really to life on prints. The drawback is it only stops down to f/4.5 at 28mm, f/5.6 at 100mm. It would be nice if it would open up a bit more.
Also, it has an electronic shutter. So, if you're planning on doing astrophotography or very long exposures, plan on bringing extra batteries or shop for a different camera.
So far, I have no standing complaints about this camera. It's built well, is rather light and feels good in my hands. It's quiet, fast, and leaves little to be desired in features. I recommend this camera for anyone who is beyond 'point & shoot' and is looking to take their photography to the next level.
Excellent versitile SLR for amateurs.......2003-07-12
The Elan 7 is an excellent, high quality SLR camera for amateurs, particularly those who are learning more advanced SLR techniques. One of the things I appreciate the most about the Elan 7 is that it switches easily between manual and automatic modes for those times when the amateur needs to have the reliability of an automatic mode. Also, there is a broad range of Canon lenses available for this body which also switch easily from manual to automatic for such occasions. I've found that I've been able to hand my Elan 7 off to others (who can sometimes barely use an automatic 35mm camera) while traveling and still get excellent photographs. On the other hand, the control offered by this camera in manual mode is unparalleled by other consumer SLR cameras such as the EOS.
The Elan 7 is the best SLR I've owned. While I've not owned an EOS, I have used an EOS. I highly recommend spending the extra money for the Elan 7 for those amateurs who strive to test their abilities with the more advanced manual modes. The EOS, however, may make a better "first" SLR camera for those who are trying SLR photography for the first time.
Great EOS camera.......2003-07-01
I've been "into" photography for a very long time. I started out with a Mamiya-Sekor 35 mm SLR. That camera was built like a tank and could take a lot of abuse. Its best feature, however, was that it was an all-manual camera and so I had to learn about exposure from the ground up. I did not trust auto-exposure cameras but eventually I broke down and bought a Minolta XE-7. That camera shared its body, and many other features, with the Leica R3. Again, like the Mamiya, the XE-7 was a solidly built and rugged camera but its aperture-priority mode had its limitations. Then the Minolta X700 came along and it featured dual-mode exposure automation. The Minoltas were both great cameras, but I wanted a little bit more.
When AF hit the market I switched over to a Canon EOS 10s because I liked it better than anything else that Minolta had to offer 10 years ago. I am glad that I did.
That was my entry into the EOS world. I recently bought my son a Rebel GII and the same week I bought the EOS Elan 7. I love the camera.
The EOS Elan 7 is a smooth, quiet and easy to use camera. It takes great pictures, under almost all conditions. It has features to satisfy the "pro wanna-be" in me (I can run the camera in full manual mode and the camera is still very fast and responsive). Or, if I am feeling particularly lazy, I can let the camera's brain do all the thinking for me and I still get great pictures over 99% of the time. The controls are easy to use and the functions are all very intuitive, so that I don't have to carry the manual with me at all times. In fact, after having used the EOS 10s for so long, the Elan 7 feels right at home in my hands. The Elan 7 has definitely cured me of my "Nikon-envy."
I followed the salesperson recommendation and bought the standard 7 model, w/o the eye focusing feuture. I am glad that I did because I can now use the extra money to buy accessories such as the battery grip.
Product Description
Canon EOS cameras have long been the top choice of serious photographers worldwide. Celebrated for their user friendly design, professional precision and uncompromising quality, this new family of EOS ELAN cameras is faster, sharper, more rugged and more intuitive than ever before - with many new features that outperform any other camera in their class.EOS ELAN 7E is the latest camera to feature Canon's exclusive Eye Controlled autofocus. Quite simply, eye control is the fastest, easiest method of selecting a focus point. The autofocus tracking speed of the EOS ELAN 7E rivals that of the leading top-of-the-line cameras available today. With a top shutter speed of 1/4000 of a second and fastest in its class 4 fps film advance, ELAN 7E is a prime choice for demanding sports or wildlife photographers. The Canon EOS line boasts a new ergonomic design. ELAN 7E is now smaller and more compact, with controls placed intuitively, in a user-friendly design, for a superior shooting experience. The construction of the camera body is newly reinforced, with strategically placed metal top and front cover plates, for rugged reliability in any environment. New shooting possibilities open when you shoot in silence. WhisperDrive transport brings near silent shooting, when used with Canon's exclusive USM lenses. In most any situation you find yourself, the versatile selection of exciting system accessories and lenses for the Canon EOS ELAN will meet your needs.
Amazon.com Product Description
The Canon Elan 7 E features the eye-controlled focus system, the fastest means of focusing and metering a photographer can find. By using more focusing points and greater off-center coverage than other cameras in its class, this camera is able to take an exact reading in approximately 1/20 of a second. When the photographer brings the camera to their eye, their glance is tracked by the focusing system, allowing framing and focusing to become a single uninterrupted creative process. An easy, one-time calibration is all that's needed to activate the eye-controlled focus system. Once this calibration is complete, the camera is able to precisely detect which part of the viewfinder the photographer is using. It then automatically focuses the lens with amazing accuracy.
This system delivers crisp, sharply focused images whether the camera is in a vertical or horizontal position. The Canon Elan 7 is even able to store the distinct calibrations of up to five different photographers. Using an EF 300mm f/2.8 IS lens, it can track a subject moving at 186 mph until it's a mere 66 feet from the camera. This fast-focus system, combined with the ability to shoot at almost 4 frames per second, makes the Canon Elan 7 the perfect choice for capturing those demanding sporting events or special occasions when you don't want to miss a single moment. And, considering its continuous shooting speed, the Elan 7 is also remarkably quiet. This feature gives the photographer the opportunity to shoot the perfect wildlife scene without disturbing or scaring the subject.
Part of the Elan 7's focusing system is the seven-point wide-area autofocus. The eye-controlled focus system was designed to work especially with this precision feature. Seven focusing points are arranged in a wide cross pattern with a central "cross-type" sensor. The wider-than-usual area gives the photographer the ability to achieve a remarkably sharp, focused image instantly. This function works whether the subject is off-center, stationary, in motion, in low light, or even in low-contrast situations. The shot will still come out sharp and crisp, and without the need to recompose the shot. By using the focusing-point selection keys, the user is able to select any of the seven focus points simply by pressing a key. Representing a bold innovation in speed and usability, this feature gives an additional amount of image control back to the photographer.
A highly advanced metering system, comprised of 35-zone evaluative metering sensors, is linked to the seven focusing points. Whether shooting indoors or outside, day or night, a seamless integration of exposure and focus ensures remarkable clarity and contrast in any image. This system gives the photographer accurate control over situations that combine light and shadow or that feature strong backlight. When metering subjects against very dark or very bright backgrounds, partial-area metering measures 10 percent of the viewfinder around the chosen focusing point. This provides accurate image results when dealing with shadows or highlights. The photographer can also use the Elan 7's center-weighed metering function. This mode places greater emphasis on what it reads as the center of the frame by measuring the entire scene. No matter which function the photographer chooses, precision metering is guaranteed--whether the camera is in a vertical or horizontal position.
Giving the photographer even more creative control is the command dial. This allows manual control light, speed, aperture, and depth of field. Shutter priority lets the photographer choose the shutter speed while the Elan 7 automatically selects the correct aperture. This function is especially useful when capturing action shots. With aperture priority, the photographer picks the aperture setting while the camera chooses the correct shutter speed. This is helpful when control over the depth of field is essential. Using the eye-controlled focus system to define the "sharp zone," the photographer can calculate the precise depth of field automatically. It's even possible to check the depth of field using the preview button.
Customer Reviews:
Best of all.......2006-09-28
Talk about bang for your buck. This camera has everything you'd expect from a mid-range camera and some you usually only find on high-end cameras. The eye control focus works great though you do need to calibrate it many times in different lighting conditions. The controls are well placed and easy to use. The custom functions are relatively simple to set and allow you to customize how the camera operates. Functions like the true mirror lock-up and the 4 fps advance speed help place this camera securely in the top ranks of its class. The thing that surprised me the most was the near silent operation. Even on rewind you can only hear it if you place your ear near the body (unless of course you choose to rewind at the faster speed). Of course there are options I'd love to see added like a PC cable port and an interchangeable focusing screen but thats why there are pro class cameras. Like I said before, this camera is hard to beat for the price.
Died after 2.5 years.......2004-08-23
Till yesterday I was all praises for this camera and would have given 5 stars. Its got the features for a beginner to reach a serious amature role with low cost. Well yesterday it died on me. I have had the camera for 2.5 years and shot probably around 100 rolls with it.
Now its a great camera. Its given me some awesome pictures. I like the metering except the fact that is does not have spot metering. This is a disadvantage. More over the the partial region of the camera is not well defined. I have the eye control. 85% it works and its great. But it does fail and irritates me at times. Low light focus is not so good but with the speedlight(420EX) it focus in a sec. What a difference. The depth of preview button is at time hard to find
I love the fash 4 frames per second. I used it twice but it gave me great results. I love the feel of the camera.
With all its defects I love the camera and might go in for the same.
Very Happy Canon User.......2003-11-21
I read the previous reviews and agree with most everything. This is a great camera that can be easily used by a beginner but has the features wanted by experienced pros.
The one thing I was disapointed in is that it did not say anywhere, until I already purchased the "E" model and read the manual, that the EYE CONTROL DOES NOT WORK IF YOU WEAR CONATCT LENSES. The "E" model was a waste of money for me due to this and that is the reason I gave this camera 4 out of the 5 stars.
Fantastic beginners camera.......2003-09-17
For the record, I have been using this camera for over 2 years now and I shoot mainly nature and people.
The Canon Elan 7E/EOS30 is a fantastic all around camera for beginners/intermediate photographers.
At the time of buying this camera, there was a confusion whether to choose the rebel or the elan 7E. I would very strongly recommend anyone to consider buying the intermediate Elan 7 as compared to the basic rebel. The rebel has a very "plasticky" feel to it and if I remember correctly, there is a single knob to set both the aperture and the shutter speed. Once you move away from shooting it as point and shoot, you will realize that the single knob can get incredibely irritating.
As for the "E" i.e. eye focus, I never really used it too much but am planning to shortly. So you can save some money by getting the Elan 7, if you so wish since the Eye feature is essentially just a gimmick. Now I also wish I had got the date feature, since down the road it might be an useful tool. (say, 40 yrs, from now, you want to know when the picture was taken ;) )
The most wonderful thing about the ELan 7E is that it allows you to grow with it...It offers a whole bunch of features, that I think will take you from a beginning stage (point and shoot) to a more advanced stage (total manual) phase. After shooting over 20 rolls of film and slide, I still find myself reading the manual and noting down some new feature to try out on my next roll.
Small piece of advice for beginners.. I realize now that the money you spend on lenses might be worth almost more than the money you spend on the camera. Coz even the best camera cannot produce a decent picture with a bad lens. I would strongly recommend avoiding the standard lens(28-90mm, I think) that comes bundled with it (even if the total package is cheap). I bought the body separate and a canon 28-105 f/3.5-4.5 and I have never regretted the decision. Its a relatively sharp lens at both ends and is always mounted on my camera for shooting almost anything. If you are on a tight budget get the Canon 50 mm 1.8 II which sells in most shops ... I am now slowly saving up for a L series lens.
Besides the usual preset options like portrait,landscape,closeup,sports,night mode,the Elan 7E offers a whole bunch of features that I found really useful. Here are some of them,
1) Depth of field preview button.
2) DEP (depth of field AE) - this really helps if your lens does not have a distance scale (like the 28-105mm). Say for e.g., you need to preset the depth of scale from 0 to infinity, this feature helps you to achieve that effect without the distance scale on your lens.
3) AE lock
4) Exposure compensation - you can set the exposure compensation upto + or - 2 stops in half stop increments and you can do it without taking your eyes of the viewfinder.
5) Auto exposure bracketting - for those really important pictures that you dont want to miss :)
6) bulb exposures - allows you to have as long a exposure as you want. I found this really useful. I hear that some cameras have limitations on how long they can be exposed. (RS - 60E3 shutter release cable is really useful for this)
7) multiple exposures
8) mirror lockup etc etc etc.
The built in flash suffices for all my needs. Lots of people recommended the battery pack, but I would suggest anyone buying this camera to first check it out themselves. I find the grip good enough for me.
All in all, I just love this camera. I have been having great fun for past 2 yrs with it and am confident of having lots more fun for few more years at least and I dont think you will get a better performance for this price...If you have the money, just get it & start shooting !!
Strengths:
1) Solid feel and good looks
2) Enough bells and whistles to keep you curious and interested for quite some time.
3) focussing point selection with seven focussing points (auto or manual)
4) whole bunch of lenses to choose from
5) built in flash
6) Rugged build - have used extensively in real hot weather(AZ) as well as sub zero temperatures (MI)
7)Relatively light and compact.
8)Best price/performance ratio
Weaknesses:
1) I feel an LCD would have been invaluable tool to have during low-lit situations
2)Lack of spot metering - this is one feature I would have loved to use.
3)Auto focus fails to activate when you try to shoot closeups(macros), cloudy landscapes or under low light situations
4) Depth of field preview button is hidden...I have never been able to activate it without taking my eyes off the viewfinder !
Fantastic beginners camera.......2003-09-17
For the record, I have been using this camera for over 2 years now and I shoot mainly nature and people.
The Canon Elan 7E/EOS30 is a fantastic all around camera for beginners/intermediate photographers.
At the time of buying this camera, there was a confusion whether to choose the rebel or the elan 7E. I would very strongly recommend anyone to consider buying the intermediate Elan 7 as compared to the basic rebel. The rebel has a very "plasticky" feel to it and if I remember correctly, there is a single knob to set both the aperture and the shutter speed. Once you move away from shooting it as point and shoot, you will realize that the single knob can get incredibely irritating.
As for the "E" i.e. eye focus, I never really used it too much but am planning to shortly. So you can save some money by getting the Elan 7, if you so wish since the Eye feature is essentially just a gimmick. Now I also wish I had got the date feature, since down the road it might be an useful tool. (say, 40 yrs, from now, you want to know when the picture was taken ;) )
The most wonderful thing about the ELan 7E is that it allows you to grow with it...It offers a whole bunch of features, that I think will take you from a beginning stage (point and shoot) to a more advanced stage (total manual) phase. After shooting over 20 rolls of film and slide, I still find myself reading the manual and noting down some new feature to try out on my next roll.
Small piece of advice for beginners.. I realize now that the money you spend on lenses might be worth almost more than the money you spend on the camera. Coz even the best camera cannot produce a decent picture with a bad lens. I would strongly recommend avoiding the standard lens(28-90mm, I think) that comes bundled with it (even if the total package is cheap). I bought the body separate and then a canon 28-105 f/3.5-4.5 lens and I have never regretted the decision. Its a relatively sharp lens at both ends and is always mounted on my camera for shooting almost anything. If you are on a tight budget get the Canon 50 mm 1.8 II which sells in most shops for under $100. I am now slowly saving up for a L series lens.
Besides the usual preset options like portrait,landscape,closeup,sports,night mode,the Elan 7E offers a whole bunch of features that I found really useful. Here are some of them,
1) Depth of field preview button.
2) DEP (depth of field AE) - this really helps if your lens does not have a distance scale (like the 28-105mm). Say for e.g., you need to preset the depth of scale from 0 to infinity, this feature helps you to achieve that effect without the distance scale on your lens.
3) AE lock
4) Exposure compensation - you can set the exposure compensation upto + or - 2 stops in half stop increments and you can do it without taking your eyes of the viewfinder.
5) Auto exposure bracketting - for those really important pictures that you dont want to miss :)
6) bulb exposures - allows you to have as long a exposure as you want. I found this really useful. I hear that some cameras have limitations on how long they can be exposed. (RS - 60E3 shutter release cable is really useful for this)
7) multiple exposures
8) mirror lockup etc etc etc.
The built in flash suffices for all my needs. Lots of people in this website recommend the battery pack, but I would suggest anyone buying this camera to first check it out themselves. I find the grip good enough for me.
All in all, I just love this camera. I have been having great fun for past 2 yrs with it and am confident of having lots more fun for few more years at least and I dont think you will get a better performance for this price...If you have the money, just get it & start shooting !!
Strengths:
1) Solid feel and good looks
2) Enough bells and whistles to keep you curious and interested for quite some time.
3) focussing point selection with seven focussing points (auto or manual)
4) whole bunch of lenses to choose from
5) built in flash
6) Rugged build - have used extensively in real hot weather(AZ) as well as sub zero temperatures (MI)
7)Relatively light and compact.
8)Best price/performance ratio
Weaknesses:
1) I feel an LCD would have been invaluable tool to have during low-lit situations
2)Lack of spot metering - this is one feature I would have loved to use.
3)Auto focus fails to activate when you try to shoot closeups(macros), cloudy landscapes or under low light situations
4) Depth of field preview button is hidden...I have never been able to activate it without taking my eyes off the viewfinder !
Product Description
Canon EOS cameras have long been the top choice of serious photographers worldwide. Celebrated for their user-friendly design, professional precision and uncompromising quality, this family of EOS ELAN cameras is faster, sharper, more rugged and more intuitive than ever before - with many new features that outperform any other camera in their class.The autofocus tracking speed of the EOS ELAN 7 rivals that of the leading top-of-the-line cameras available today. With a top shutter speed of 1/4000 of a second and fastest in its class 4 fps film advance, the ELAN 7 is a prime choice for demanding sports or wildlife photographers. The Canon EOS line boasts a new ergonomic design. The ELAN 7 is now smaller and more compact, with controls placed intuitively, in a user-friendly design, for a superior shooting experience. The construction of the camera body is reinforced, with strategically placed metal top and front cover plates, for rugged reliability in any environment. The shooting possibilities open when you shoot in silence. WhisperDrive transport brings near silent shooting, when used with Canon's exclusive USM lenses. In most any situation you find yourself, the versatile selection of exciting system accessories and lenses for the Canon EOS ELAN will meet your needs.
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Electronics
Canon Compact Accessory Pack L2
Canon Zoom Pack 1000 for Elan and Rebel Series Cameras (Holster Style)
Canon EF 28-80mm f/3.5-5.6 II Standard Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras
Canon BP-5B Battery Pack
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