The Canon NEX-3 EVIL Camera

So the spec is pretty much solid for the Canon EOS-M: Reheated 18 MP APS-C sensors as the one used on the T4i, presumably with the same contrast detect/on-chip phase detect AF.  What puts me off though, is the same design principle as the Sony NEX-3, designed for the Point & Shoot upgraders with minimal number of buttons, but worse.

- The EOS-M has no provision for an external EVF.
- No tilting LCD screen
- No Built-in flash, or includes an external flash

It is a huge let down to so many people with high expectations from Canon's long waited entry to the mirrorless market, saved for the APS-C sized sensor.  This camera has no revolutionary features, or features that stands out from the mirrorless camera crowd.  I could be wrong, but I think the AF will be subpar compared to the AF system used on the Olympus EM-5 or the latest Panasonic M4/3 cameras.  So far, Olympus is the only player in the mirrorless market that has an in-body image stabilization, other than the Pentax K01, which, more of an SLR design than a pure mirrorless design, which to me, is a huge incentive, as I use mostly old manual focus lenses.

Perhaps, Canon is going the way of Sony: introduces simple cameras for P&S upgraders first, and then a more sophisticated version (like the NEX-7) for the serious amateurs later.

I will wait for the next version of EOS-M, when it will include an EVF and more direct controls.  I do like the EF to EOS-M adapter though, because I have many Canon lenses that I could use with, but then again, why not just use them on my 1D Mark III, or a full frame camera?

All tangled up - NEX-5N & Macro-Takumar 50mm f4 (1:1). Click for larger.

Canon's New Mirrorless Camera - EOS-M

Canon's new EOS-M?  Looks authentic. Picture comes from Xitek.

Specs and details of Canon's new mirrorless camera has been sparse and sketchy, but the latest rumored picture looks pretty real to me.  Here is my take.

The body looks pretty small, and clean with a hint of the latest G-series DNA.  The mode dial (THANKS!) has an integrated shutter release button and the hotshoe looks like it is compatible with the SpeedLite flashes.  Don't see a built-in flash, and I think this could be a negative to many people as this camera is a take anywhere device that a built-in flash should be mandatory.

I think Canon is doing the right thing by having a fast prime with the introduction of the new camera.  We are relatively sure that the sensor size will be 1.6x, which means this lens will be equivalent to a 35mm f2, which is perfect for many people, including me.  I am sure the other lens will be the venerable 18-55mm that is almost a standard lens for most new cameras.  Hopefully it will be stabilized, as I don't expect the EOS-M will have in-body stabilization.

One thing that matters a lot to us manual focus lens fanatics, is the lens to sensor register.  If it's longer than 22mm, it may pose a problem for M-mount lenses.  I hope it will be 20mm or somewhere close.

As for the image quality, I think it will be better than the current 1.6x bodies.

We will see on Monday, when this camera will be officially announced.