We've waited years for Canon to take a bite
out of the compact system camera pie, and photography's top dog has finally
opened its jaws. But does the EOS M live up to its pedigree or Is It a
miserable mongrel?
The APS-C sensor from Canon's mighty EOS
650D has been transplanted into the EOS M. as has the DIGIC 5 processor and its
31-point autofocus. However, the EF-M lens mount is all-new and means a new
range of smaller lenses. Fear not, Canon faithful an optional adapter (below)
allows you to add the EF and EF-S lenses used by EOS SLRs.
The
APS-C sensor from Canon's mighty EOS 650D has been transplanted into the EOS M.
It really is incredible that Canon has
squeezed all the photo goodness of the EOS 650D into such a tiny body - one
that comes in red, silver, white or black. With the tiny 22mm pancake lens
fitted, it's a truly pocketable package. It's not the most comfortable to
hold. Though, with few finger-friendly folds.
Unlike most compact system cameras, the EOS
M doesn't have Image stabilization built into the body, so it relies on the IS
powers of the lenses you mount on it. The standard 18-55mm kit lens does an
okay job of steadying matters, but don't expect the monster stabilizing power
offered by the class-leading Olympus E-M5.
It
really is incredible that Canon has squeezed all the photo goodness of the EOS
650D into such a tiny body - one that comes in red, silver, white or black.
That's right, you can't see a flash
glinting out of that Spartan fascia. However, Canon hasn't completely forgotten
bright-bulb fans - the hot shoe will house the compact Speedlite 90EX flash. It
entails budgeting an extra E120, but it does perform better than most built-in
flashes.
Another piece of tech pinched off the EOS
650D is the 3in touchscreen the best you'll find on any camera. Still, for
changing settings quickly proper buttons and dials rule, so it's a shame the
EOS M's controls are more akin to Canon's compact cams. If you're looking for
Power shot G15-like manual control, you'll be sorely disappointed.
Another
piece of tech pinched off the EOS 650D is the 3in touchscreen the best you'll
find on any camera.
The flash isn't the only thing you might
miss. There's no viewfinder built Into the body. In itself that's not a big
deal but there's not even a provision to add an external one. That's not great
news if you often shoot in bright sunlight, or like to focus manually.
Now and these
Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 lens
Price: $345
If you can live without a zoom, at least
for the clay, fitting the EOS M with this "pancake" lens makes it
even more portable. And with its bright f/2.0 aperture it offers great
low-light performance.
Canon
EF-M 22mm f/2 lens
Fitting
the EOS M with this "pancake" lens makes it even more portable.
EF-EOS M Mount Adapter
Price: $195
It adds some extra hulk but this adapter
greatly expands your optical options to include any of Canoe’s EF and EF-S
lenses Fancy an 800mm super telephoto? Go on then.
EF-EOS
M Mount Adapter
Canoe’s
EF and EF-S lenses Fancy an 800mm super telephoto
ONA Any Bag Camera Bag Insert
Price: $60
Website: photojojo.com
There’s nothing less cool than a serious
camera bag. Chuck your Canon into this insert, which can then fir in a more
everyday method of Partage.
Chuck
your Canon into this insert, which can then fir in a more everyday method of
partage.
Capture Camera Clip with Microplate
Price: $80
Price: peakdesignltd.com
Want to travel lighter still? This little
plate screws into the tripod mount, allowing you to attach your camera to a
belt. A quick-release catch allows quick-draw shooting.
Capture
Camera Clip with Microplate
A
quick-release catch allows quick-draw shooting.
