Canon EOS 100D review

Smartbuy goes hands-on with the smallest DSLR in the world to see how much snapping power it packs!

Agreed, that the “everybody can be a photographer” trend has led to a lot of frowning photography puritans, but the demand for high-quality imaging has definitely done a lot of good to the industry as such. In terms of innovation, manufacturers have so far produced some really stunning compact-system-cameras (CSCs), and even some amazing point-and-shoots. Cameras such as Sony RX 100, Olympus OM-D series and Fujifilm X1 Pro have proven that high-end imaging technology can definitely be packed in a compact body.

And maybe, because Canon has had experience stuffing amazing tech into compact bodies (cases in point – EOS M and the G-Series), the RD folks wouldn’t have broken a sweat while making the EOS 100D. To be honest, we did have a lot of apprehension about this camera – a compromise on size usually means a compromise on features. So we did what we had to do to find out the truth.

Form over functionality?

Not really. Yes, its compact size is the USP for Canon, but in now way is the size any problem. Canon calls it the ‘world’s smallest and lightest’ DSLR, and at body dimensions of 116.8×90.7×69.4mm and a body-only weight of 407g, it’s not hard to believe them. At this size and weight, it’s an extremely handy camera for street photography enthusiasts, and also candid photographers who need to whip out the camera in a matter of seconds. And lets just admit it, a lighter camera means we can carry more lenses, or just give our backs and necks some relief.

So does it affect the ergonomics? We hardly think so! In fact, we are of the opinion that anyone who has used a bigger DSLR or a CSC, will easily get accustomed to the compact handgrip. And a roughened rubber surface along the handgrip offers a good hold, and we never thought that the camera was capable of just slipping out of our grip.

For controls, you get the regular-sized 12-shooting-mode dial on the top, and the power button also includes another notch, for activating video mode. Recording, as usual, can be triggered by the Live View button. Apart from the shutter control dial and the shutter release button, there’s also an ISO control button. So with the Aperture control button, and all minimalist functions at the back, you still get full manual flexibility over basic controls.

To sum it up, anyone who has used a DSLR before will be able to get used to it in a matter of minutes, and first time users too will take hardly a day to get a hang of things.

Still a performer!

At almost the size of a CSC, the aluminium and resin body contains the same 18 megapixel APS-C sensor that the larger Canon EOS 700D uses. The 100D also gets the DIGIC 5 image processor that we saw in the top-of-the-consumer-line 700D. But to put some differentiation between the models, continuous shooting speed of the EOS 100D is limited to 4 fps instead of the 700D’s 5fps.

The 3-inch LCD touchscreen has a highly stunning 1040K-dot resolution that reproduces colour and contrast extremely accurately. Being extremely intuitive, it also helps in focussing via touch when you need creative control or when the AF system gets a bit confused. And since the screen has 100 per cent coverage, it is apt for framing compositions. The Auto Focus is quite quick, and it responds fast and accurately under a variety of lighting conditions. And coupled with the kit 18-55mm lens, we found that the 100D is ideal for outdoor photography. The optical stabilisation, however, is a bit off the mark. It might be because of the small size, but the camera is definitely prone to shakes and soft shots. But the high-ISO performance of the 100D makes up for it. Even at ISO 6400, we found the shots to be clear and grain-free.

Colour reproduction is typically Canon – spot on. However, advanced users might feel that the reds get a wee bit washed out in outdoor shots, but it can be fixed with custom white balance settings.

Verdict

We’re not complaining, but it’s a bit hard to understand why Canon made the EOS 100D. It is definitely nowhere near the beginners’ range – the 100D is Rs 20,000 more expensive than the 1100D. In fact, it is much closer to the top of the consumer range, by being just Rs 5,000 less than the 700D. But the form factor and the number of creative features it comes with makes it look more of a beginner’s DSLR. And for that perception, it is a bit pricey.

But advanced users who could do with a spare camera would find this to be a delight to use with a 40mm pancake or a 50mm prime, or even a 10-22mm ultra-wide on the streets.

Rs 48,995

Love – Small but functional form factor, amazing noise control

Hate – Prone to shakes and soft shots, pricey

sabyasachi.b@thehindu.co.in

Canon EOS 100D review