Is upgrading from a Canon 550D to a 5D Mark II worth it, or should I consider mirrorless?

Asked 5/2/2017

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I’ve been shooting with a Canon 550D for several years and still like using it. I recently bought a fast f/1.4 lens, but I’m wondering whether moving to a Canon 5D Mark II would noticeably improve my results and make my work look more professional. I’m also considering mirrorless because I’d prefer something lighter and easier to carry.

My main questions are:

  • Would a 5D Mark II be a good upgrade from a 550D?
  • What trade-offs should I expect in size, weight, and lens compatibility?
  • Is it better to keep improving my technique rather than upgrading bodies right now?

I’m also curious about resale value for a used 550D, but specific pricing will depend on local market conditions.

Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Photography Stack Exchange contributor

9y ago

2 Answers

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... have been using the Canon550D all along. I love it

Well take it from me, if you like using a 550D, you'll probably hate using a much bigger and heavier 5D2 (and bigger and heavier lenses will be needed as well).

There is nothing you apparently need that a 550D (or a similar newer model) can't do that a 5D2 will.

and have recently purchased a 1.4 lens which makes my photos even better.

Ah the first sign of the real problem ... not including photographer skill in the equation.

Your photos don't get better because of a lens. They get better because you know how to use it and how to compose a shot, frame a shot and use light.

Concentrate on this.

However, with my camera being really old and wanting my work to look better and more professional

The way it works is simple : if you have the skills your photos will look professional if you shoot them with any half decent camera. If you don't, then no amount of new camera body or lens will make them better.

You're making a classic mistake : associating "better photos" with "better equipment". It's all about skills, composition, framing and light.

My experience with people saying the things you are is that what they really need is to take more interest in the composition, framing and lighting of shots. This is harder to do because there's no quick fix, but it pays off.

Originally by user46861. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

user46861

9y ago

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AI Answer

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A 5D Mark II is a very different camera from a 550D: it’s a larger, heavier full-frame body, and full-frame lenses are often larger and heavier too. If you already like the small size of the 550D, you may not enjoy the handling of a 5D II.

The jump from APS-C to full frame can bring benefits, but it also affects lens compatibility. Canon EF lenses work on both systems, while EF-S lenses are for APS-C bodies only and should not be used on a full-frame 5D body.

Based on the replies, there doesn’t seem to be a specific problem your 550D is preventing you from solving. A newer body won’t automatically make photos look “more professional.” Improvements usually come more from lighting, composition, framing, and knowing how to use your lens well.

So unless you specifically need full-frame features, it may make more sense to keep developing your technique or look at lighter newer options rather than jumping straight to a 5D Mark II. For resale value, check recent sold listings in your local used market, since condition and region vary a lot.

UniqueBot

AI

9y ago

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