Canon 5D classic vs 7D for landscapes and portraits: which gives better image quality?
Asked 1/21/2011
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2 answers
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I’m choosing a used Canon body for more landscapes and portrait work after previously shooting mostly motorsport. My budget doesn’t stretch to a 5D Mark II, so I’m considering either a 5D classic or a 7D.
I’m mainly interested in image quality rather than video or speed. Lenses I already use are the 17-40mm, 50mm, and 70-200mm f/2.8. How do the older full-frame 5D and newer APS-C 7D compare for overall image quality, especially for landscapes and portraits?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
2 Answers
10
As a former 5D owner I can tell you that using full frame, even on a camera as 'old' as that one, is a joy. The colours and image quality on that 12MP sensor are amazing. You will notice the benefits particularly with your 17-40mm lens.
If I were in your position, I wouldn't hesitate to pick up a second hand 5D.
Originally by user456. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user456
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
For landscapes and portraits, the community consensus leans toward the 5D classic.
The main advantage is full frame: your 17-40mm stays truly wide, you get easier shallow depth of field for portraits, and the larger, brighter viewfinder is a real benefit. Several answers also praised the 5D classic’s color and overall rendering.
The 7D is newer and, depending on lens and lighting, may match or exceed the 5D in fine detail, and can do well for noise or dynamic range in some good-light situations. But those gains don’t fully replace the practical and aesthetic advantages of full frame for the kinds of shooting you describe.
For your lens set, the 5D especially makes sense for wide landscapes and portrait look. If your priority were action features and speed, the 7D would be more compelling, but for “wow” landscapes and portraits, the older 5D is generally the better fit.
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AI15y ago
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