Best Pro DSLR Cameras (of 2011)
Updated October 9, 2011
While the age of digital photography continues to advance with leaps and bounds spurred onward as technology moves ahead at an unparalleled pace, it has become more difficult with each passing year, to find the best of the best in the wide field of Digital Single Lens Reflex cameras designed for professional use. Here is a top ten list of these cameras for 2011 along with specifications and features.
Why Buy a "Pro DSLR Camera?"
Professional DSLR Cameras are quite a bit different from entry level or "beginner" DSLR's. Unlike entry-level DSLR's, Pro DSLRs are designed for people who are constantly taking pictures, usually at a professional level (fashion photographer, wedding photographer, journalist, sports photographer, or a serious amateur photographer). If you are the sort of person who always has to have a camera in hand, no matter where you go, or you have a job that requires some serious photography work, then you are going to want to look at a Pro-grade DSLR. Although the price you pay for a Professional DSLR will be double or triple of what you might pay for an entry level or hobbyist DLSR, you get a lot more "camera" for your money.
Benefits of a PRO DSLR
Superior Creative Control -- DSLR's all have manual controls (that's what helps set them apart from their point and shoot brethren), but PRO level DSLR's offer even more creative control. You have extra control such as exposure compensation, Auto Bracketing (you can take multiple pictures at different exposures per single shot, auto ISO, etc. This list is by no means exhaustive, but pretty much any PRO DSLR will have more "options" for control than entry level models.
Faster Shutter Speed-- This depends on what model you get, but as a rule of thumb, you can expect much faster shutter speeds and longer "burst" modes. This allows you to hold the shutter button and get a string of photos taken. For photographers who shoot fast-paced events (sports photographers, journalists), fast shutter speeds is a must to capture the perfect moment.
Higher ISO Performance-- More expensive DSLR's will usually offer higher ISO settings while giving better image quality at those higher ISO settings. This is especially true if you opt for a Full Frame DSLR.
Bigger Sensors -- One feature that "may" be offered are bigger sensors with the higher models. For example, the Canon 5D Mark II offers a full frame camera (shoots at 35mm or 1x sensor) while the Canon IV offers a 1.3x APS-H sensor size (entry level and mid-range canon DSLR's only offer 1.6x. The bigger the sensor, the bigger the size of the pixels that can be captured per same surface area. This yields better image quality at higher ISO's. You also can shoot wider with less (or no in the case of full frame) zoom factor added to the lens focal length.
Higher Megapixel Count -- Megapixels are certainly over-rated when it comes to image quality, but one of the "selling" points offered by higher end DSLR models is that Pro level DSLR's usually offer higher megapixel counts. For 2010 Pro DSLR models and up,, you can expect Pro grade DSLR's to have at least 16 megapixels. Some of the high end DSLR's like the Canon 5D Mark 2 will have over 20 megapixels. Expect between 20 to 30 megapixels in high end DSLR's in 2012 to 2013models as well.
Better Image Quality -- In general, higher end DSLR's will give better image quality. Image quality greatly depends on the quality of the lens used of course. But everything else being equal, you can expect better quality images from a high end DSLR. Note that in most cases you are usually paying more money for the extra features and usability advantages of a pro level DSLR, NOT image quality though.
Better Ergonomics -- One thing that separates entry level models from higher and mid range DSLR's is "how the camera" handles. Higher end DSLR's tend to have better designs. For example, the menu's are streamlined for easier access to important functions. Some of the most crucial functions used often (such as Aperture control, ISO control, Shutter Speed) can be controlled directly though their own buttons rather than ONLY via a digital menu (as is the case with some DSLR entry level models). The viewfinder itself is usually souped up quite a bit with extra information present such as ISO, shutter speed, aperture, etc. Basically, the difference between a $2500 camera body and a $500 camera body might be akin to the handling of a high end BMW versus a Toyota. Both will get you to a destination, but one is just a lot more comfortable to drive.
Note that "Pro DSLR" can mean many different things for different people, depending on what you are looking for in a "Pro" model. For example, if you want a Pro DSLR for portrait photography or landscape photography, then you might want to look at something like the Canon 5D Mark II which is a full frame and offers spectacular quality.
Other Features of Interest- Professional DSLR's might also include useful features like:
- Water-sealed body (for weather resistance)
- Metal Camera Body
- Fast Burst Speeds for Pictures
- HD Recording
- Multiple Memory Slots
- High(er) AF tracking systems (more tracking points)
Best Professional DSLRs
Nikon has long been looked to by photography pros around the world as the standard by which all other medium format cameras are measured. The Nikon D7000 does not fail to deliver with many features and qualities only offered in higher priced models. The D7000 offers full 1080p HD recording capabilities, a huge offering of features and bestows high quality, pro photographs while maintaining simplicity of functionality that allows novice DSLR buyers ease of use.
Design
The Nikon D7000 delivers in a multitude of arenas starting out with its lightweight magnesium alloy chassis yielding a comfortable 1.7 pounds. This makes the D7000 an easy camera to tote around for outdoor roving shoots as well as vacation portability for the home photographer. The highly durable and sturdy body is weather resistant. This feature will set the owner at ease if a light sprinkle or high winds kick up during a shoot. When you heft the D7000, you feel as if you are holding a high quality robust piece of equipment that is up to tackle rough conditions. The 3-inch LCD display makes image playback easy to see even in bright sunlight.
This pro grade DSLR offers 100% frame coverage so you see the entire image that is being exposed to the sensor with no worry of cropping in the editing suite. What you see is what you get. The shutter sounds crisp and strong when actuated, adding to the rugged feel of the camera.
The Nikon D7000 jumps slightly ahead of the most of the competition in the area of max resolution with a burly 16.2 mega pixels and a continuous exposure rate of 6 fps. This high resolution makes large prints possible without added noise or grain. The Nikon EXPEED 2 image processor alongside the 14-bit A/D conversion causes colors to appear more vibrant and smooth while keeping the camera speedy.
The simplicity of the D7000 is unparalleled with easy to navigate menus and buttons that are very responsive. High quality images can be produced without much tweaking of the controls by the user. Yet experienced photographers can have all the control they desire by switching to the scene modes, priority modes, or full manual as they see fit.
The ability to record full HD 1080p video through the standard DX lenses is another huge bonus for the D7000. Frame rate controls of 24 (23.97), 25, and 30 (29.97) fps, and the ability to choose HD or SD resolutions make this camera a very flexible video platform.
A nice feature in the D7000 is the dual SD, SDHC, or SDXC memory card slots. The two slots allow for duplication of shots on each memory card for back up, designation of one card for RAW and the other for JPEG, one for still shots and the other for video, and automatic seamless overflow from one card to the next. This feature is a real time saver for the pro on the move.
Image Quality
The continuous shooting at 6fps can last for up to 100 exposures with the D7000, and it has an extensive ISO range. Beginning at ISO 100 and moving upwards to ISO 6400 and then 2 more settings (H1 & H2) that will bring you up to ISO 12,800 & ISO 25,600 respectively. The noise in the images is not noticed until the extremely high ISO settings are used, allowing users to shoot in very bright conditions or virtually with no light at all.
Customized users settings help shooters quickly change between set ups to achieve the best image quality possible on the D7000. A built in flash with i-TTL and wireless commander options add to the robust features for this camera. Nikon’s Active-D lighting continues to perform well in all light scenarios resulting in astoundingly clear and colorful shots.
The AF system on the D7000 utilizes 39 points with 3D tracking and a face recognition mode that works very well in shooting video. The electronic virtual horizon indicator helps to produce high quality photos by aiding in composition and camera leveling and in removing camera shake. The 23.6 x 15.6 CMOS sensor with the RGB color filter array produces astounding images in almost any lighting condition.
Battery Life
The battery life on the D7000 is lower than some competitors but still impressive. A single charge will give a shooter approximately 850 shots before needing a recharge. While some look at this as a disadvantage, it is still a high number of images on a single battery charge. Nikon has dealt with the problem of batteries falling out of the battery compartment once the door is opened by adding a retaining clip that keeps the battery in place until the user is ready to remove it.
The Nikon D7000 also includes a HDMI out port to allow you to view your photos and videos directly on an HD television. This feature is a great addition to a pro series DSLR camera.
Price
Coming in first place in the list of top DSLRs for 2011, one would think the Nikon D7000 would be comparable in price to the top cameras, but it actually comes in lower. To purchase the Nikon D7000 body only will set you back only $1,199.95. A great buy for such a magnificent pro grade DSLR. While other pro DSLR cameras may offer a few slight advantages over the D7000, the amount of camera for the money is hard to beat and is why the Nikon D7000 tops the list of pro DSLRs of 2011.
This 21.1 mega pixel marvel can shoot full 1080p HD video, weighs in at a robust but lightweight 1.8 pounds, has a continuous shooting rate of 4 fps, is compatible with CF and SD memory cards, and has a battery life of approximately 800 shots. The Canon EOS 5D Mark II (body only) can be purchased for around $2,799.99.
The 5D Mark II lacks some of the "pro-grade" features that the Canon 1D series has such as fully sealed body, more AF points, and faster shooting ability per second, but the Mark II more than makes up for these in the image quality department; many say the 5D Mark II gives the best image quality out of all the Canon cameras.
Because this is a full frame camera you are pretty much obligated to buy the top quality Canon L lenses; full frames don't function very well with the lower end lenses.
Certainly, if you're style of photography does not require maximum frame speed (such as needed for sports photography), then we recommend the Canon 5D Mark II as the best camera for you. For any sort of portrait or landscape photography, the 5D series are the best out there. If you like full frame, you should also check out Nikon's version of the 5D, which is the DX3.
You'll find some people love the 5D Mark 2 while some prefer Nikon's DX3. This usually has to do with whether you are a "canon person" or "Nikon person". There is usually very little crossover between the two camps and most opinions you'll find will be pretty biased.
The 5D Mark 2 offers full HD Video recording while the Nikon DX3 does not. The Nikon offers 24.5 megapixels while the Canon shoots at 21 megapixels. In terms of image quality, both offer superb images so it's a toss up. However, where the Canon wins is the 5D Mark 2 costs around $2400 for the body (nearing the end of 2011) while the Nikon D3X costs nearly $7k. A better bet would be to go for the D700, which is more of a direct competitor to Canon's 5D Mark 2.
Marking the 5th generation of Canon’s professional DSLR speed oriented range of camera, this model of Canon comes in at #2 due to its many features and continued praise of the photographic community at large. It offers an impressive 10 fps in continuous shooting mode in jpeg format. Originally introduced in 2009, this offering from Canon continues to command a great deal of respect in a world filled with high quality DSLRs.
Design
Weighing in at 2.6 pounds the Canon 1D Mark IV is no lightweight when compared to its competitors, but most will bear the burden to keep the added features and bonuses that this model offers. The back of the body highlights a 3-inch LCD that easily helps determine cropping and focus on the fly. The protective anti-glare covering makes viewing the LCD screen in the outdoors easy and enjoyable.
The chassis of the Mark IV is primarily made of a magnesium alloy allowing for a sturdy frame able to stand up to some abuse. Built with an integrated cleaning system that removes dust from the inside of the body. The menu controls surrounding the LCD screen are easy to use and are water and dust resistant.
One of the features that makes this model a standout is its ability to capture full HD video at 1920 x 1080 and can be done without changing to special lenses.
Image Quality
One of the secrets to the high image quality provided by this model is the vast ISO range. From ISO 50 clear up to ISO 102,400 this Canon keeps firing. The danger with such high ISO is always the appearance of grain or noise. At the higher ISO settings, the Mark IV is no exception. However, Canon has attempted to offset this problem through the use of the proprietary Dual Digic 4 image processor on the Mark IV. This processor keeps the images clear and filled with vivid colors, but it also helps to minimize the noise and grain that always accompanies high ISO.
Much of image quality is dependent upon the lens chosen, but the image sensor is the last line of defense and plays a very large role in image quality. The Canon EOS 1D Mark IV uses a 1.3x crop sensor, making images snap and pop to reveal all the detail available in its 16.0 mega pixels.
The E-TTL flash metering system helps to keep overexposure to a minimum. Utilizing a 63 zone evaluative metering system makes it possible to shoot in pitch black or bright sunlight. The area of automatic focus has been troublesome for Canon in the past, and while the Mark IV uses the same 45-point AF points adopted in 1998 by the EOS 3, this model uses a new AF sensor with 39 cross points that can detect focus in vertical and horizontal axis. The AF mode can be used in manual or automatic settings via the new AI-Servo II.
Battery Life
This model uses the CR2025 lithium battery. A single charge should be able to yield approximately 1,500 shutter actuations. This is a much-needed feature for pros who do not want to be interrupted during a shoot to change batteries. To store images, the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV is capable of saving to CF, SD, and SDHC formats, giving the user options on how images are stored and transferred to the PC.
Price
On the high end of the spectrum, the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV can be purchased for $4,999.00 for the body only.
Canon is known for producing awesome pro DSLR cameras that produce vivid color images and clean, crisp, and clear photos. They have done it again with the Canon EOS 1D Mark III. While this camera was first introduced in 2007, it has stayed in the forefront of the pro DSLR race and proven itself to be a high quality, reliable, and fast camera for any professional seeking a solid platform.
Design
While some might balk at the 10.1 mega pixel CMOS sensor on the 1D Mark III, those who know a bit about imaging know that mega pixels aren’t everything. 10.1 mega pixels will provide adequate clarity and resolution to produce high quality large prints without a great deal of manipulation in the editing suite. The unit is self-cleaning using ultrasonic vibrations to remove dust from the sensor.
Canon also thought the design of the controls and buttons through enough to provide a seam to help inhibit dust and water from entering the camera body or clogging up the controls. The body is made from a sturdy magnesium alloy, providing for a solid feel and rugged stability required by high-end shooters.
The 3-inch LCD helps in determining focus and overall shot quality easier than looking through the viewfinder or on a smaller screen. The Mark III is not able to capture video, which moves it backward in the pack, but its professional results keep it in the top of the list of pro DSLRs even 4 years after it was originally released to the public.
Image Quality
10 fps of continuous shooting for up to 110 frames puts the Mark III high up in the list. This ability will allow shooters to capture remarkable sequence shots or ensure that just the right shot is captured in high-speed events like sports photography.
In the area of auto focus, the Mark III gets high marks due to the 45-point high-density AF system that gives the user control over the focal point and provides options for manual modes giving even more control to the end user.
Featuring an E-TTL flash metering system the Mark III will output the proper amount of light whether shooting at high noon or at midnight using any flash. The image process takes advantage of the dual DIGIC III image processor enabling a speedy function, high quality images, and low noise at higher ISO speeds. The higher ISO settings produce noise that the DIGIC III does not quite eliminate and considering the relatively low ISO settings on the high end of ISO 3200 expandable up to ISO 6400, it would be wise to take the light you need with you.
Battery Life
The battery life of the Mark III is the highest in the field. A single charge of the battery results in almost 2,200 exposures before the battery is sucked dry. By far, the Canon EOS 1D Mark III has the best battery life on the market when looking at pro level DSLR cameras. SD and SDHC memory cards can be used in the Mark III and make transfer to the PC straightforward and easy to accomplish.
Price
Even though the Canon EOS 1D Mark III is a four-year old, it still demands a hefty price tag of $3,899.95 for the body only. On the upside, any of Canon’s EF series lenses will work well on this model.
Nikon D3X
If you want "the best" full frame -- at least on paper -- then you can't do better than the Nikon D3X. You are going to pay for it, however, with the D3X costing just shy of $7k for the body. The camera shoots at 24.5 megapixels, offers enough frame rate for sports photographers, and gives you all the souped up "pro" features you might like such as 2 CF card slots, 2 live view modes, and so on. If you are looking for a more cheaper full frame on the Nikon side, you'll have to look at the D700. You get half the megapixels and no live view, if you go with the D700, however.
D3X versus Canon 5D Mark 2
The comparison people make is usually with the Canon 5D Mark 2. We feel that overall the 5D Mark 2 offers more value for your money. At less than $2400 for the body, you get HD video recording (the D3X has no video), Live View mode, ISO up to 12800 that can be expanded to 25600, and good button customization (you can switch between shooting modes with the C1, C2, C3, etc button programming). The Nikon does offer more megapixels, but the difference between 21 and 24.5 is pretty small by all means. The Nikon has a better construction and is more comfortable to carry than the Canon 5D Mark 2. However, if you are using Nikon and you want the "best" full frame Nikon has to offer, you'll have to go with the D3X.
Olympus’ offering of the E-5 for consumers is a great place for starters and pros alike. The 12.3 mega pixel images are clear, crisp, and vivid allowing for large prints and wonderful image creation.
Design
One of the standout features of the E-5 is the 3-inch 270-degree swivel LCD screen. This type of LCD screen makes it possible to shoot from extremely high and low angles while maintaining proper composition and framing. The optical viewfinder can also be used, but the addition of a swivel LCD is a nice feature to have in a pro grade DSLR.
The chassis of the E-5 is manufactured of a sturdy magnesium alloy keeping the feel rugged. The E-5’s overall weight comes in at a whopping 2.5 pounds making it anything but a lightweight model. The body of the camera, along with the buttons has been sealed with water and dust protection to keep grime and moisture from seeping into the inside of the E-5. Olympus has included self-cleaning technology that uses high-speed (30,000 times per second) vibrations to keep images clean.
The Olympus E-5 can capture HD video but only at 720p. However, the shooter can control shutter speed and aperture when shooting in this video mode, giving more creative license for the user. 1080 p HD would be better, but the E-5 produces passable HD 720p footage that is crisp and sharp none-the-less.
Image Quality
A rare find on DSLRs is an image stabilizer feature, and it is on the Olympus E-5. Such a feature helps to eliminate blur caused by camera shake. Having this feature allows the photographer to pay more attention to other details instead of worrying about camera shake, thus allowing for a more professional product.
Final images can be altered by 10 built in filters on the E-5 on both videos and still photos. While most photographers will apply these types of effects in the edit suite, some will like the ability to shoot with these modes in mind and in camera for quick previews when a specific type of shot is intended.
Also included in the E-5 is the digital leveling feature. If the camera is tilted slightly, it can ruin a shot, the E-5 can help eliminate this problem. This feature is a boon for portraits and landscape photography where keeping things level is very important to the result. This does not mean that the photographer cannot incorporate ‘Dutch angle’ shots, the leveling feature can be turned off when not needed or wanted.
The image sensor allows for 12.3 mega pixels for high-resolution photos utilizing a Live MOS sensor and the new TruPic V+ image processor to allow for high quality imaging. AF and fast face detection AF are great added features in the Olypmus E-5.
Battery Life
The lithium ion battery will provide up to 870 shots when using the optical viewfinder and much less when using the LCD screen to frame each shot. While some call this disappointing, the truth is that 870 shots is a lot of picture taking ability.
Supported memory card formats include SD, SDHC, and SDXC and help to make image transfer to PCs fast, simple, and easy.
Price
The price is an affordable $1,699.95 for the Olympus E-5 body only and is a great price point for all of the features offered on this rugged and high quality pro level DSLR.
The Pentax K-5 offer high quality feel, HD 1080p video recording, and 16.3 mega pixels of bright, clear, and vivid images and acts as a great round out to the top 5 pro DSLRs of 2011.
Design
A combination of stainless steel and magnesium alloy, the frame of the Pentax K-5 is durable and sturdy. Weighing in at a light 1.45 pounds, this pro DSLR can easily be carried for long durations and is ideal for pro work or vacationing shots. With a weather resistant covering, it is well suited for use in rain, snow, fog, and windy conditions without fear of contamination. The overall design of the body makes it a very user-friendly camera whether in the studio or in the field.
The K-5 can record HD video at full 1080p with a single frame rate of 25fps, also known as PAL, the standard European frame rate. A built-in mic on the body can be used for recording audio or a 3.5 mm mini mic jack can be used to make video productions more professional.
A continuous shooting mode of up to 7fps for up to 40 frames, at 16.3 mega pixels makes this camera an easy shoe in for high speed or sporting event shooting. Also designed into the K-5 is the sensor based shake reduction making it easier to keep images clear.
Image Quality
The image quality on the K-5 is improved with the large ISO range provided. ISO settings from ISO 80 to ISO 51,200 help make exposing images properly much easier in varied lighting conditions. There is no ISO noise reduction built in to the K-5 so one should be aware of the potential for pixilation when shooting with the higher ISO settings.
The new SAFOX IX+ 11 point AF system is an improvement over the K-7, the K-5’s predecessor and helps with the handheld HDRi (jpeg only) function built into the camera. High Dynamic Range Imaging or HRDi, has made a large splash in the photographic community in the past few years and Pentax has shown its commitment to help make it easier for users to engage in HDRi shooting. An HDMI (High Definition Media Interface) port is included to enable viewing on an HD television for both still photos and movies.
Battery Life
The Pentax K-5 has a great battery life with approximately 1,100 shots being produced from a single battery charge of the lithium battery. With such a large amount of photos from a single battery charge, memory storage is a necessity. The K-5 is compatible with SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards.
Price
The Pentax K-5 body only can be purchase for $1,429.99 and is well worth the price. This pro level DSLR will provide you with high quality professional images and full HD 1080p video with a full range of controls and features.
Best Pro DLSR's Runner Ups
The cameras listed in the top 5 of the list are the premium and cream of the crop of pro level DSLR for 2011. The remaining 5 cameras that round out the top ten list are all superb units that have many features similar to the top five. For the sake of brevity, numbers 6-10 will be listed with the basic information on specs and pricing for each unit. Any of the top 10 pro level DSLRs of 2011 would be great choices for any photographer desiring to purchase a high quality camera that will produce professional looking images and this listing is not meant to disparage any manufacturer.
Full frames cameras tend to attract Pro photographers like honey does flies. Nikon has several full frame models out right now, but certainly their most popular (and best reviewed) would be the D700. If you shoot with Nikon, then unless you have the $7000 to buy the D3X, your next best option if you want full frame is the Nikon D700. By all regards, this is a lovely camera and it takes fantastic images.
Nikon D700 vs. Canon 5D Mark 2
The D700 shoots at 12.1 Megapixels and offers a full frame sensor. We personally prefer the Canon 5D Mark 2 because the Canon shoots at 21 megapixels, offers HD video, a heavier more durable build, and features better camera controls. The Canon also can shoot ISO up to 25,600 while the Nikon only shoots up to 6400. Granted, the Canon model is a newer model (which you should compare it more to the newer D3X), but you get more camera with the Canon.
The Nikon D300S has long been the nearly the flagship of the pro grade Nikon bodies. This model boasts 12.3 mega pixels, shoots HD 720p video, weighs a mere 1.4 pounds, has a continuous shooting rate of 7fps, is compatible with SD memory cards, and has a battery life of around 1,000 shots. The Nikon D300S can be purchased for approximately $1,699.99 body only.
The Canon EOS 7D is 18.0 mega pixels, shoots 1080p HD video, has a continuous shot rate of 8fps, weighs 1.8 pounds, a battery life of approximately 1,000 shots, and is compatible with SD memory cards. The Canon EOS 7D body only can be purchased for around $ 1,699.99.
This is cannon's quintessential Mid-Range camera or the start of their "pro dslr" camera range. Truth be told, the EOS XXD range used to occupy this spot (30D/40D/50D), but with the very strong T2i entry level DSLR and the "new" EOS 60D, Canon have deigned to directly continue on the legacy of the EOS XXD models as their main mid-range bodies.
With the 7D, you are basically getting quite a few of Canon's high end features in a mid-range package. You get 8 fps (fast enough to shoot sports), 18 megapixels, HD Video, a bigger viewfinder, expandable ISO, and full manual controls, and the magnesium body that the XXD line "used" to have.
If you want are going to buy a serious Canon camera, we recommend you start off with this one.
This offering from Sony is the largest mega pixel offering of the top ten at 24.6 MP, does not have a video mode, weighs 1.9 pounds, a continuous shot rate of 5 fps, is compatible with SD memory cards only, and has a battery life of approximately 880 shots. The Sony Alpha A900 (body only) can be purchased for $2,699.99.
The Canon 60D recently replaced the Canon EOS 50D which was was not really bridging the gab between the entry level Rebel series and the awesome 7D.
As some might think, this model is not really a direct continuation of the 30D-40D-50D. Rather it's more of a tangent.
There are some downgrades. The case is plastic, not magnesium like in the 50D/40D/30D lines. The frame per second shooting rate has dropped from the 50D 6.3 to 5.3
However, there are enough step up features from the Rebel line to make it worth upgrading (top panel LCD, rear control dial, higher burst rate, new ability to process RAW in camera). The 60D incorporates some solid mid-range features such as a 18 megapixel sensor and video. There are some unique features such as a swivel LCD as well. ISO is higher than 50D and offers less grain at the higher levels -- so ISO performance has been enhanced over the 50D.
The downside to the 60D is that it didn't offer the power upgrade 40D and 50D users were looking for. This model is more of a bridge between the Rebel T2i/T3i and the 7D. You will have to ask yourself if you should pay the additional money and upgrade to the 7D for the extra features -- and for many people, it will be a hard choice. There is very little (almost no) image quality improvement over the T2i or 50D, but in terms of ergonomics, the 60D is a big upgrade over the Rebel series.