Image quality opinions please

[antonroland]

5D vs 1D Mk II N

Any ideas from folks who have experience of both?

Much appreciated

 

[grumpybadger]

I had a 5D and have a pair of 1D Mk II (non-N) but I think they have the same sensor and image processing. I'd say that, for static shots, the 5D gave better pictures. Its definitely slightly lower noise at higher ISO (but Noise Ninja on the 1D brings the quality up).

However, if you are interested in moving subjects, then I find the 1D to be much better at focus, meaning it takes better pictures.

I'd say that for landscapes, portraits, etc - 5D. Outdoor use - 1D.

Hope that helps

 

[DCCD]

I'm having the same issue as I'm going to upgrade from my 30D. I'm going to hang off till the replacement 5D is announced to see what that offers over the current model. For what its worth, I'm slightly sway more to the 1D (for build quality and weather proofing) as most of my shots will be outdoor sports.

 

[dazzajl]

My take would be pretty much the same as grumpybadgers.

 

[antonroland]

Thanks for the responses guys

You see I can maybe get a 1D Mk IIn for a nice price but this will put paid to my 5D plans for quite some time.

Now on the 1D I will have a larger sensor (1.3 FOVC) although still 8,2 MP but 1D build quality which is obviously way up there.

The work that brings in money for me is mostly weddings and this does include outdoor work, but not yet serious sport photography where the IIn will come to its right.

So because of this I am concerned and would like confirmation as to whether the IIn's images are as good as the 5D?

The points I have considered were:

Same launch date and therefore similar technology.

Same size pixels, IIN sensor just smaller, hence 1,3 FOVC.

Same noise management at high ISO - similar pixel size.

Bragging right in favour of 1D...:bonk:

Build quality of 1D

Although the 5D is becoming more affordable, I am a bit concerned about possible teething problems in the "new 5D" which shouldn't be a huge issue but might just be an irritation for a few weeks:shrug:

 

[grumpybadger]

I believe the 1D II N has the same sensor as the 1D and I am certain that on the non-N the noise performance is worse than the 1D.

Other factors to consider apart from image quality:

1D user interface. You either love it or hate it. I love it. I really like the fact I have to conciously change settings. I used to put bits of sticky tape over some of the 5D controls to stop me changing them accidentally when on the move

1D is bombproof but unless you are going to be out in the rain or dropping cameras in water (as I have done with 1D) then it may not be an issue

5D is smaller and lighter - this can help. A 1D is a bit of a beast

AF is definetely better on 1D

Batteries last longer on 1D (although 5D with grip is pretty close)

There is no really good super wide angle zoom solution for the 1D (16-35 becomes more like 20 equiv at the wide end)

So, the choice is really down to what you do. The 5D will offer you better pictures for weddings. That is simple.

 

[antonroland]

Thanks GB!

I suppose you will agree that the Mk IIN will be a few steps up from the 20D right.

Must be honest, there is more than just a little bit of 1D club wannabe here:nuts:

Also, if all goes according to plan I will get the MkII N for just over half of what the 5D would go for... O.K NEARLY 2/3'S

How does this affect your opinion? (If at all)

 

[CT]

I agree pretty much with what GB and others have said... the 5D would be the obvious better camera for wedding work if ultimate image quality is the criteria. Having said that, the 1DMK2n's different crop factor (1.3X) over a 1.6X crop is more significant than you may think and I find it a big advantage in FOV using the 17-40L and particularly the 50mm 1.4, where it's use can be a bit restricted on a 1.6X crop sensor.

I can't see you really going wrong with either choice, but the 1DMK2n is more than capable of producing good wedding work, while it's superior AF system, build quality, weatherproofing, and host of custom functions makes it a good all rounder for tackling pretty well anything.

 

[antonroland]

the 1DMK2n's different crop factor (1.3X) over a 1.6X crop is more significant than you may think and I find it a big advantage in FOV using the 17-40L and particularly the 50mm 1.4, where it's use can be a bit restricted on a 1.6X crop sensor.

Thanks CT!

This is the type of thing I was considering and now you confirmed it.

My 70-200 sits on my 20D all the time but I have found it to be just a bit too long for "my style" at weddings and similar work. (Speaking of which,I am quite sure that wide angle images account for maybe 3-5% of what we normally do at weddings and for this the 10-22 on the 20D will surely do...)

I realise that from a full frame point of view the 5D will have a fair to large advantage (with if nothing else 4 extra Mp and full frame perspective - 1.0 x FOVC ) BUT if I consider the price (if I get it) and the long term benefits I think and hope I cannot go wrong.

The most important thing - and I trust we all agree on this - is that the 1D MkIIn's IQ is surely not inferior to the 5D, right:shrug:

 

[CT]

Thanks CT!

The most important thing - and I trust we all agree on this - is that the 1D MkIIn's IQ is surely not inferior to the 5D, right:shrug:

It depends what you mean by 'inferior'. With it's 1:1 sensor amd high pixel count, the 5D is going to produce the better uncropped images, and most people agree it has a slightly better noise performance.

Good as the 5D is though any 1 series camera will make it feel like a toy in comparison (which it isn't, but the difference in build quality is unmistakable)

I think you're worrying too much Anton you wont really go wrong with either, and the 1DMK2 is going to be a desirable very usable all rounder for a long time yet.