Canon recently introduced the new EOS 1200D, targeted at amateur photographers looking to work on their photography skills with a user-friendly DSLR that produces high quality images. The 18-megapixel EOS 1200D not only provides professional imagery but also access to Canon’s rich lens heritage of more than 70 EF lenses. The entry-level EOS 1200D shares many aesthetics with higher end models in the EOS family including a textured finished coating which gives the camera a classy look and feel, a metallic mode dial and a rubber section on the grip to ensure a more secure hold.
“With the new EOS 1200D, Canon is once again able to offer an extensive lineup of DSLR cameras to match entry-level needs, alongside the EOS 100D and EOS 700D. Depending on one’s choice of affordability, compactness or feature-set, Canon’s renowned EOS DSLRs offer great performance and image quality that is synonymous with its brand name.” said Edwin Teoh, Assistant Director for Consumer Business Marketing of Canon Singapore.
Produce High-end images with DIGIC 4
The new EOS 1200D is powered by Canon’s proprietary DIGIC 4 image processor and features a 18-megapixel APS-C size CMOS sensor found in Canon’s other entry-level and mid-level EOS DSLR cameras. The combination of the two provides the EOS 1200D with the ability to capture stunning photographs with sharp and intricate details. The DIGIC 4 processor also allows the EOS 1200D to shoot at a burst speed of 3 frames per second (fps).
The camera’s 9-point Auto Focus (AF) system with centre cross-type AF point enables accurate and rapid focusing on both horizontal and vertical planes. This same AF system also gives users freedom to frame shots where moving subjects are involved. This is when the Al Servo AF comes in to predict where the moving subject is going next to help the user keep the subject in focus. The EOS 1200D also features a wide ISO speed range of 100–6400 (expandable to 12800).
Ergonomic Layout offers ease of use
Amateur DSLR users will feel at ease with the EOS 1200D. The buttons and controls of key functions are laid out in a way that ensures easy finding and optimum ergonomics. Additionally, when shooting with the viewfinder, users will be presented with information such as shutter speed and ISO the moment the subject is locked in focus. Users will be able to capture photos with perfect exposure and natural color tones at the touch of a button with the Scene Intelligent Auto mode available in the EOS 1200D. When the Scene Intelligent Auto mode is activated, the camera will be capable of recognizing the different types of scenes based on factors such as subject color, brightness, contrast and distance to automatically adjust the optimal settings to capture that perfect shot.
The EOS 1200D’s large 3-inch LCD monitor allows easy reviewing of photographs and checking of image details. This large screen also provides a good view of scenes during Live View shooting. In addition, during Live View shooting, scenes can be viewed in various aspect ratios such as 4:3, 1:1, 16:9 or the regular 3:2. Photos taken in the JPEG format can also be resized in the camera directly, reducing the hassle of having to download the photos and resizing them externally. Amateur photographers can also explore creative ways of capturing images with the EOS 1200D’s built-in Creative Filters such as Grainy Black & White and Fish-eye effects.
Superior video capability
The EOS 1200D’s video capabilities allow users to capture Full HD of up to 30fps. Additionally, with ISO speeds of up to 6400 in video mode, capturing videos in low-light conditions will no longer be a challenge. Aside from the ability to shoot still images during video recording mode, the Video Snapshot mode also allows four-second videos to be captured to allow a more compelling story to be told when the different clips of videos are put together. With a built-in microphone, audio recording level adjustment and wind filter, the EOS 1200D doubles up as a handy video recording device within a DSLR.
Canon Macro Ring Lite (MR-14EX II)
Canon introduced the new Macro Ring Lite (MR-14EX II), designed to fit all Canon EF and EF-S lenses. The MR-14EX II is an exciting addition for photographers interested in exploring macro photography.
“Canon’s EOS eco-system enables photographers to enjoy the full range of photography as supported by the huge array of lenses and accessories. The Macro Ring Lite (MR-14EX II) is one accessory that is specifically created to meet the needs of macro photography as interest in this photography genre grows.” Said Edwin Teoh, Assistant Director for Consumer Business Marketing of Canon Singapore.
Designed specifically for macro and close-up photography, the Macro Ring Lite MR-14EX II allows EOS DSLR users to shoot subjects at close range without any vignetting effect. For those who enjoy shooting portraiture, the Macro Ring Lite MR-14EX II fires a flash light that fills the entire subject to ensure that it is evenly lit with hardly any shadow. When shooting in dark environments, a focusing lamp that uses a high intensity white LED for brightness is incorporated to help the camera focus accurately on the subject.
The new Macro Ring Lite MR-14EX II features a clean interface that has minimal buttons, a user-friendly selection dial and an easy-to-read LCD panel. The connection cord is now positioned to the left side of the camera, deliberately avoiding the shutter button and other frequently-used controls on the right side of the camera. The use of smaller parts has also resulted in a more compact ring. Recycling time has also been improved at only 5.5 seconds or less for it to be fully charged. Furthermore, users now have the option to fire the flash even before it is fully charged, to ensure they never miss a great photo opportunity.
Price and Availability
1) The Canon EOS 1200D with EF-S18-55mm IS II lens kit is now available at Canon authorised dealers at the recommended retail price of $759.
2) Pricing and availability for the Macro Ring Lite (MR-14EX II) will be advised at a later date.
* Information and Pictures Courtesy of Canon Singapore and Ogilvy Public Relations *