Canon EOS 7D DSLR Touts 18 Megapixels and Handles High-Def Video

Canon's new EOS 7D DSLR offers an 18 megapixel resolution and shoots HD video...it'll also grab eight pictures a second and touts a 19-point autofocus system.

Canon has unveiled its new Canon EOS 7D DSLR digital camera…and rather than being an update to an existing EOS model, the 7D offers features that haven’t been seen in Canon shooters to date, including high-definition video capture capability, an eight frame-per-second continuous shooting mode, and a new 19-point autofocus systems—all combined with an 18 megapixel resolution.

“The EOS 7D represents a completely new chapter in digital photography and Canon product development,” said Canon Imaging Group senior VP and general manager Yuichi Ishizuka, in a statement. “This camera stands alone as the most functional and innovative DSLR Canon has released to-date, bringing together all of the best professional features offered, along with numerous user requests at a price-point everyone can appreciate.”

The EOS 7D features an 18-megapixel Canon CMOS sensor and dual DIGIC 4 image processors for rapid response: the processing power drives the camera’s ability to hand high-resolution shooting at 8 frames per second for as many as 126 large JPEG shots (to a UDMA CF card; few shots at higher resolutions). The EOS 7D also offers what Canon characterizes as teh most advanced autofocus system available in its EOS line, offering a multi-axis cross-type 19-point autofocus grid, where every point is sensitive for vertical and horizontal focussing…and every point remains functional with apertures down to ƒ5.6. The autofocus system also offers s spot AF mode (for focussing on small subjects), a point expansion mode for moving subjects and action shoes, and a five-zone AF to handling difficult, multiple-subject shots.

The EOS 7D also handles full HD video capture: 1080 resolution at 24, 25, and 30p are all do-able, with fully manual exposure control; users can also hook up external stereo mics. The camera also sports a 3-inch LCD display with live preview for both still and video shots, and handles CompactFlash I and II, UDMA-compliant CF cards—users can also hook up USB media, or wirelessly push images out via an optional Wireless File Transmitter accessory.

The EOS 7D should be available at the end of September with a suggested price of $1,699 for a body-only kit; a version with Canon’s EF 28–135mm ƒ/3.5–5.6 IS USM zoom lens will run about $1,899.