3 years after bringing EOS 5D into the market and braking the whole new affordable full-frame DSLR world back then, Canon has announced the 5D replacement – 5D Mark II. Canon users have been eagerly anticipating for its arrival. I personally have been waiting for this fella since last year. In fact, the whole DSLR world has been waiting for this significant moment. They want to see how Canon counters its head-to-head competitor, Nikon, in their recent semi-pro full-frame DSLR D700 release.

I have to admit that my first impression on this release was: disappointment.

The arrival of Canon EOS 5D Mark II has brought up some hikes among the DSLR users. Rumors started to flood in since 2 years ago. Until recently, Canon launched the moon teaser themed “Destined Evolution” which revealed the new camera bit by bit over time, as follow:

Some people were amused by the way Canon brought in this camera, while others were annoyed along the way. I personally think that Canon has successfully achieved what they wanted to, be it leaving positive or negative impacts among the consumers. At least, huge crowd of people already knows about its arrival. Awareness? 100% positive. Check out the now fully revealed camera at Canon USA website.

Before you head over and check out dpreview.com’s hands-on preview on Canon EOS 5D Mark II, let’s have a quick glance on what’s new on Canon EOS 5D Mark II as compared to its predecessor (in short and layman terms). Many of the features are found in their recent announcement of 50D, 1000D and 450D though.

• 21.1 megapixel full frame CMOS sensor
• DIGIC IV image processor, 14-bit ADC
• Reduced micro lens gap
• Expanded ISO sensitivity range (100-6400, expansion to 50 and 25600)
• Auto ISO in all modes except manual
• No mirror flip in Live View with Contrast AF
• EOS Integrated Cleaning System
• Continuous shooting up to 3.9 fps
• Live view functionality with contrast-detect AF
• Movie recording in live view
• Clear View 3.0″ LCD monitor
• Automatic LCD brightness control
• Built-in Microphone and Speaker
• Microphone input socket
• HDMI output
• Command Dial positions
• 98% coverage viewfinder
• IrPort remote
• All new 1800 mAh battery
• RAW available in Auto mode
• Expanded bracketing options
• Improved battery status information / memory
• Quick Control screen
• Creative Auto Mode
• Extra small sRAW / separate selection
• Refreshed user interface
• Image processing features
• New jump mode options
• Two mode Live View silent shooting
• Copyright metadata
• Optional WFT-E4 and BG-E6 grips

At a really first glance, it may seem that Canon has stuffed movie recording featured into their old 5D body with some new technology and features. However, do take note on the bits and pieces here and there that Canon has got to offer. At USD$2,699, you can’t really ask for more.

It may be a catch-up game that Canon is playing with Nikon, but it is considered as the best model to go for in Canon. And it is definitely the best model to compete with Nikon D700, to offer healthy competitions. The winner? Us.

And oh, did I mention that they did not pay much attention on their poor auto-focus (AF) that many professional photographers were frustrated with?