End of Canon EOS 7D Mark III Speculations

The Canon EOS R7 was Launched / Released (together with the Canon EOS R10) on 24 May 2022 for the High-Action / Wildlife Hobbyist Photographer

New Canon EOS R7 APS-C Mirrorless Camera (Image Credit: Canon Malaysia)

Canon EOS R7 and Canon EOS R10 Information / Videos

Canon EOS R7 >>

Canon EOS R10 >>

Update: Canon launched two APS-C / crop bodies) Canon EOS R cameras on 24 May 2022 - both bodies were released as the first APS-C format R bodies for the Canon EOS R System.

Even after the introduction of the Canon EOS R System the hopes were still high that a Canon EOS 7D Mark III would still be released in 2021 / 2022. The original Canon EOS R did not offer sufficient high-speed performance and even in my own conclusion, after my early 2019 Canon EOS R field testing, confirmed its inefficiency as a high-performance body.

The Autofocus of the original EOS R as well as other in-body specifications were significantly improved upon with the release of the Canon EOS R5 and Canon EOS R6. One major improvement was the new Canon Dual Pixel CMOS AF II System offering accurate speed and (human and animal) subject traction that was on par (and in some ways of higher specification) than that of the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III.

After my 2020 Canon EOS R6 field testing for birds in flight / high-action photography I concluded that the Canon EOS R6 was a suitable Canon EOS R recommendation / replacement for action photographers wanting to migrate or buy into the EOS R System.

While testing the Canon EOS R6 for birds in flight (even with the two supplied RF f/11 lenses) I realised that there will be no direct Canon EOS 7D Mark III replacement for the Canon EOS 7D Mark II. The AF performance of the Canon EOS R6 was indicative (to me) that the Canon EOR R System will offer a high-performance and affordable (APS-C) body for the Canon enthusiast and hobbyist wildlife photographers.

Canon EOS R7 Release / Launch  May 2022 >>

Thoughts on Upgrading my Canon EOS 7D Mark II for Birds in Flight Photography >>

(My) Birds in Flight Photography Paradigm is shifting towards the Canon EOS R7

I have used the Canon EOS 7D Mark II almost exclusively for Birds in Flight photography (throughout its entire life cycle). I am still an avid user of this extremely capable Canon APS-C (1.6x Crop Factor) DSLR body for birds in flight / fast action photography. Like many current (and previous) Canon EOS 7D Mark II photographers I am quite exited about the announcement of the Canon EOS R7 - and should be considered as a suitable upgrade / replacement for the Canon EOS 7D Mark II.  

Canon Dual Pixel CMOS AF II System

The Autofocus (AF) System in a the new Canon EOS R7 is more / less the same Dual Pixel CMOS AF II System deployed in the Canon EOS R6 / Canon EOS R5 and Canon EOS R3.

Canon RF (and EF / EF-S) lenses for Canon EOS R7

There are already quite a few cost-effective RF (L) lenses that should pair well with the Canon EOS R7 / EOS R10 (in the 400mm to 800mm range for birds in flight / high-action). All current Canon EF / EF-S should be compatible with the Canon EOS RF lenses via the current EF - RF Mount Adapter). 

Canon RF Lenses for Canon R System cameras >>

Canon RF-S Lenses for Canon R System cameras >>

New Canon EOS R / PowerShot Cameras to be Launched 2024 / 2025 >>

Canon EOS 7D Mark II Resources / Birds in Flight Photography Gallery View

Two Cost-Effective Canon Lenses for Birds in Flight Photography View

Birds in Flight Photography View

Canon Photography Training Milnerton Woodbridge Island | Kirstenbosch Cape Town

Winter Routine and other Interests as updated by Microsoft

 Vermon Chalmers Winter Routine and other Interests as updated by Microsoft

Photography is a significant part, but there are other personal important areas as well.

"Vernon Chalmers, the creator of the Mental Health and Motivation website, delves into the fascinating intersection of emotional wellbeing, neuropsychology, artificial intelligence (AI), and the sense of self. His work encompasses research, resource sharing, and insights that contribute to our understanding of these critical aspects of human experience.

As someone with a personal interest in education, training, and psychology, Chalmers recognizes contemporary neuroscience as a fundamental physiological requirement for gaining insight into cognitive versus emotional decision-making biases and subsequent behavioral responses.

His journey from analytical education to creative training has been shaped by experiences at Intel Corporation, founding Blu-C, and exploring neuropsychology and photography. If you’d like to explore more, you can visit his Mental Health and Motivation website, where he shares valuable resources and reflections." (Source: Microsoft Copilot 2024)

Global Mental Health Reach
Since August 2021 the Mental Health and Motivation website has evolved into an international resource sharing platform for assisting academia, mental health service providers and interested individuals across the world - currently assisting visitors from more than 126 Countries / 50 US States - with various (academic / personal / family / community / military / employment-related) Mental Health and Motivation resources. More than 35 international mental health care institutions / providers are actively promoting related mental health care services and / or content on the Mental Health and Motivation website. (Source: Mental Health and Motivation).

Global Mental Health Recognition
The website is currently recognised in the 'Top 100 Global Mental Health Website / Blog Index 2024' This accolade was also achieved in 2023 (20th). The website's RSS-feed is in the global 17th position at the moment. 1st position currently is the prominent website, NAMI (USA) - National Alliance for Mental Health. (Source: Feedspot).

Full Source / References>> Mental Health and Motivation

Cape Teal Duck in Flight with Canon EOS 70D

Canon EOS Birds in Flight Photography : Diep River / Woodbridge Island

Cape Teal Duck in Flight on a Sunny Morning

I love the challenge of photographing with older technology. 

If the light is right and the glass is good anything is still possible…

Canon Bird Photography Equipment

• Canon EOS 70D APS-C Camera
• Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM lens
• 7 FPS Continuous Mode (AI Servo) 
• Sandisk Extreme 32GB 90MB/s SD Card

Camera Focus / Exposure Settings

• Autofocus /  Zone AF
• Manual (M) Mode
• Aperture: f/5.6
• Auto-ISO (400)
• Shutter Speed: 1/3200s
• IS Off
• Handheld

Release Dates of Canon Equipment used

• Canon EOS 70D - July 2013
• Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM lens - November 2014

Image Post-Processing
Adobe Lightroom Classic (Version 13)

Returning Peregrine Falcon to Milnerton, Woodbridge Island

Returning Peregrine Falcon to Arnhem, Milnerton, Woodbridge Island

The Peregrine Falcon: Fastest Bird in the World

Returning Peregrine Falcon to Milnerton, Woodbridge Island Copyright Vernon Chalmers

What a pleasant surprise..! As I opened my front door early yesterday afternoon (and during the following week) I received a rapturous welcome from my closest high-rise neighbour.

The peregrine falcon was back! Haven’t heard or seen him in weeks and have missed him during the past few weeks.

He gave me enough time to get back inside, grab a camera and then posed for an impromptu photo shoot.
Watching me closely, content and safe. I left a few minutes later as he was still happy and high. So was I…

During the last week he perched / slept outside the bathroom window. Needless to say, the only light that went on ‘in any close proximity to him’. was the fridge light.

Arnhem Milnerton, opposite the Diep River, Woodbridge Island

Canon Bird Photography Equipment

• Canon EOS 7D Mark II APS-C Camera
• Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM prime lens
• 10 FPS Continuous Mode (AI Servo)
• Lexar Professional 64GB 160MB/s SD Card

Camera Focus / Exposure Settings

• Autofocus / Case 1 / Large Zone
• Aperture Priority (M) / Manual (M) Mode
• Aperture: f/5.6
• Auto-ISO (250 - 400)
• Shutter Speed: 1/1200s - 1/1500s
• Handheld

Image Post-Processing
Adobe Lightroom Classic (Version 13)

Copyright Vernon Chalmers Photography (Please Read before Using Images without Permission)

Peregrine Falcon Milnerton, Woodbridge Island - Copyright Vernon Chalmers

Peregrine Falcon Milnerton, Woodbridge Island - Copyright Vernon Chalmers

Peregrine Falcon Milnerton Woodbridge Island - Copyright Vernon Chalmers

The Peregrine Falcon: Fastest Bird in the World >>

Top 10 Fastest Flying Birds in the World >>

Canon Birds in Flight Photography Skills Development >>

Long Exposure Photography with CTPS at Milnerton Beach

Long Exposure Photography : Milnerton Beach, Woodbridge Island, Cape Town

Long Exposure Photography Milnerton Beach, Woodbridge Island

While out with some of the Cape Town Photography Society Club (CTPS) members on Saturday evening at Milnerton Beach, Woodbridge Island, for a Long Exposure photography session.

While it was freezing, and everybody was facing the ocean, I turned my camera / tripod around 'to see what is on the opposite side' of Milnerton Beach - and how I could integrate the Milnerton Lighthouse into the image (with some of the other ambient lighting options). 

Canon Long Exposure Equipment

• Canon EOS 6D Full-Frame Camera
• Canon EF 16-35mm f/4 IS USM lens
• 1 Shot Mode
• Lexar Professional 64GB 160MB/s SD Card

Camera Focus / Exposure Settings

• Manual Focus
• Aperture Priority (Av) Mode
• Aperture: f/16
• ISO 100
• Shutter Speed: 1/30s
• Tripod (Manfrotto X190)

Image Post-Processing
Adobe Lightroom Classic (Version 13)

Copyright Vernon Chalmers Photography (Please Read before Using Images without Permission)

Vernon Chalmers using a Canon EOS 6D for Bulb Mode | Long Exposure Photography >>

Vernon Chalmers with CTPS Members (Image Credit: Joyce Goldschmidt CTPS)

Waiting for Sunset to start our Long Exposure Photography on Milnerton Beach

CTPS Members on Milnerton Beach (Image Credit: Joyce Goldschmidt CTPS)

How to Choose a New Camera

Choosing The Right Camera For Your Needs

DSLR vs. Mirrorless Camera

“For me, the camera is a sketch book, an instrument of intuition and spontaneity.”

― Henri Cartier-Bresson

How to Choose a New Camera

"Choosing a new camera can be an exciting but sometimes overwhelming process, as there are many options available with varying features and specifications. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed decision:

1. Define Your Purpose:Consider Your Goals

• Determine what you want to achieve with the camera. Are you interested in photography, videography, or both? Will you be shooting portraits, landscapes, action, or something else?

2. Set a Budget:Establish a Range

• Cameras come in various price ranges. Determine how much you're willing to spend on both the camera body and any additional lenses or accessories.

3. Camera Type

• Digital or Film: Decide whether you want a digital or film camera. Digital is more common nowadays due to its convenience and flexibility.
• Interchangeable Lens vs. Point-and-Shoot: Interchangeable lens cameras (DSLRs or mirrorless) provide more versatility, while point-and-shoot cameras are simpler and more portable.

4. Sensor Size:Full-frame vs. Crop Sensor

• Full-frame sensors generally provide better image quality but can be more expensive. Crop sensors are smaller but can still produce excellent results.

5. Resolution:Megapixels

• While higher megapixels can offer more detail, they're not the only factor in image quality. Don't prioritize megapixels over other features.

6. Low Light Performance

• ISO Range: Consider the camera's ISO range. A wider range is beneficial for low-light conditions.

7. Autofocus System:Speed and Accuracy

• Look for a camera with a fast and accurate autofocus system, especially if you plan on capturing fast-moving subjects.

8. Video Capabilities

• Resolution and Frame Rates: If you're into videography, check the camera's video capabilities, including resolution (1080p, 4K) and frame rates.

9. Size and Weight

• Portability: Consider how portable and easy to carry the camera is, especially if you plan on traveling frequently.
  
  

10. Brand and Ecosystem

• Lens Availability: Check the availability of lenses and accessories for the camera brand. Some brands have more extensive ecosystems than others.

11. User Interface

• Ease of Use: Consider the camera's user interface. Some cameras may have more intuitive controls and menus than others.

12. Reviews and Recommendations

• Research: Read reviews from both experts and user reviews to get a sense of real-world performance and user experiences.

13. Try Before You Buy

• Hands-On Experience: If possible, go to a store and handle the camera. Check its ergonomics, button placement, and overall feel.

14. Future-Proofing

• Consider the Future: Think about your future needs and whether the camera can grow with you as you advance in your photography or videography journey.

15. Warranty and Support

• Check Warranty: Look into the warranty and support offered by the manufacturer.

Remember, the "best" camera depends on your specific needs and preferences. Take your time, do thorough research, and choose a camera that aligns with your goals and budget." (Source: ChatGPT 2023)

DSLR vs. Mirrorless Camera

"The choice between a DSLR (Digital Single-Lens Reflex) camera and a mirrorless camera depends on your specific needs, preferences, and the type of photography or videography you're interested in. Here are some key differences between DSLR and mirrorless cameras:

1. Mirror Mechanism

• DSLR: Utilizes a mirror mechanism. Light passes through the lens, reflects off a mirror, and then reaches an optical viewfinder, allowing you to see exactly what the lens sees.
• Mirrorless: Does not have a mirror mechanism. Light passes directly to the image sensor, and the preview is displayed on an electronic viewfinder (EVF) or the camera's LCD screen.

2. Size and Weight

• DSLR: Generally larger and heavier due to the mirror and prism system.
• Mirrorless: More compact and lightweight since they lack the mirror and optical viewfinder.

3. Autofocus

• DSLR: Traditionally relied on phase-detection autofocus through the optical viewfinder. Live view and video modes often use slower contrast-detection autofocus.
• Mirrorless: Uses contrast-detection or phase-detection pixels directly on the image sensor. Many modern mirrorless cameras offer fast and accurate autofocus, sometimes even outperforming DSLRs.

4. Viewfinder

• DSLR: Optical viewfinder provides a direct optical view through the lens. Some DSLRs also have Live View mode using the LCD screen.
• Mirrorless: Uses either an electronic viewfinder (EVF) or the LCD screen to display a digital preview. EVFs have improved over time, offering real-time exposure adjustments and other useful information.

5. Battery Life

• DSLR: Typically has longer battery life since power is not continuously required for an electronic viewfinder.
• Mirrorless: May have shorter battery life due to the constant use of electronic components.

6. Lens Compatibility

• DSLR: Often has a longer history of lens development and a wider selection of native lenses. However, older lenses may not be fully compatible with newer bodies.
• Mirrorless: May have a shorter history but is catching up quickly. Some mirrorless cameras can use DSLR lenses with adapters, but native mirrorless lenses are becoming more prevalent.

7. Continuous Shooting Speed

• DSLR Can have high burst rates but may experience blackout between shots due to the mirror mechanism.
• Mirrorless: Generally offers faster and more silent continuous shooting with no blackout, making them ideal for capturing fast action.

8. Video Capabilities

• DSLR: Capable of recording video, but autofocus in video mode may be slower or less advanced compared to mirrorless cameras.
• Mirrorless: Often designed with video in mind, offering advanced autofocus during video recording and, in some cases, superior video features.

9. Durability and Weather Sealing

• DSLR: Traditionally known for robust build quality and better resistance to environmental conditions.
• Mirrorless: Increasingly designed with weather sealing and durability, but this can vary by model.

10. Cost

• DSLR Can be more budget-friendly, especially for entry-level models.
• Mirrorless: Prices vary, but high-end mirrorless cameras can be comparable to or more expensive than DSLRs.

In recent years, mirrorless cameras have gained popularity and technological advancements, narrowing the gap with DSLRs. The choice ultimately depends on your priorities, whether it's size, specific features, lens compatibility, or budget constraints. Both types can deliver excellent results, so it's worth considering your individual needs and preferences before making a decision." (Source ChatGPT 2023)

Images Source: Pixabay (Open Source)

What is Camera / Lens EXIF Data?

Canon Camera / Lens EXIF Data

From Canon's EOS Utility Software : Canon EXIF Data

EXIF = Exchangeable Image File Format Information (EXIF Data)

EXIF Data is the identification and listing of information metadata (exposure and other relevant settings) and its values -available for DSLR / Compact / Mirrorless Smartphone cameras before and / or after taking a photo. 

Generally found on your LCD screen viewing image detail or when downloaded in Canon's Digital Photo Professional / Adobe Lightroom (and other camera / editing software).

Basic camera and lens detail such as Camera Make / Model, Lens Type, Exposure, White Balance, File format and various other settings are included in the EXIF Data.

Before / after the shot
The image on the right is a Windows 7 screenshot from a Canon EOS 700D DSLR attached to the EOS Utility (via USB) - before a shot. The Canon camera was set to Av mode with a pre-set f/stop value of F4.5, ISO 200, AF (Auto-Focus), RAW, and Single Shot. The absence of the shutter speed is indicative that when in Av mode, the camera will select the shutter speed during the actual exposure - and will only be available as EXIF Data after the shot.

The bottom image is the EXIF data displayed after the shot settings (extracted from the Canon Digital Photo Professional post-processing software). Notice that the Shutter Speed is now included = (1/45) - The lens information - Canon EF-S 18-135mm IS STM is now also displayed (together with other useful information).

Adobe Lightroom Free Plugin to view Body / Lens EXIF Data
Adobe Lightroom Free Plugin to view Body / Lens EXIF Data

Exposure / EXIF Data
Exposure EXIF information is the result of the Exposure / Lens settings set by the photographer ie. in Manual / Aperture Priority / Shutter Priority / Program Mode the photographer controls exposure settings such as Aperture / ISO / Shutter Speed.

What about EXIF Data in Auto Mode? Although the camera carries out all exposure decisions (except for lens focal length / zoom), all EXIF data will still be recorded and be available after the shot.

Basic camera and exposure info:- Camera / lens type ie. Photo taken with the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS at a focal length of 200mm.

• Aperture - measuring the size of incoming light areas (f/stop) ie. f/5.6
• ISO - light or image sensor sensitivity standard) ie ISO 100
• Shutter speed - (measured in seconds) ie. 3 seconds or 1/1000's

What Is the Purpose of EXIF Data?
EXIF Data assists the photographer with specific exposure (ISO / Aperture / Shutter Speed) and other relevant information at the time of capturing an image. Viewing / comparing EXIF Data is valuable criteria / settings for 'image settings awareness' for learning and or improving similar captures.

Example of EXIF Data: Canon PowerShot SX60 HS

• Focal Length (FL) 200mm
• f/5.6 (Aperture)
• ISO 200 (ISO)
• 1/250s (Shutter speed)

What is Camera / Lens EXIF Data?

"EXIF (Exchangeable Image File Format) data is a standard for storing metadata in image files captured by digital cameras, scanners, or other imaging devices. It contains a variety of information about the circumstances in which the image was taken, the camera settings, and other technical details related to the image.

Camera and lens EXIF data can include a wide range of information, such as:

1. Camera Make and Model: This identifies the manufacturer and the specific model of the camera used to capture the image.

2. Lens Information: Details about the lens attached to the camera, including the lens make and model, focal length, aperture, and in some cases, even the lens serial number.

3. Exposure Settings: Information about the camera settings at the time the image was taken, such as shutter speed, aperture, ISO sensitivity, exposure compensation, and metering mode.

4. Date and Time: The date and time the image was captured.

5. Geolocation: If the device has GPS capabilities, the EXIF data may contain geographical coordinates, providing the exact location where the image was taken.

6. Camera Settings: Various settings used at the time of image capture, including shooting mode, white balance, focus distance, and more.

7. Image Parameters: Data about the image format, resolution, color space, and other technical aspects of the image file.

This metadata can be viewed using various software or tools that can read and display EXIF information. It's particularly useful for photographers to understand the settings used to capture an image, aiding in analyzing and improving their photography techniques. However, it's also important to note that this data can contain sensitive information, such as geolocation, which might raise privacy concerns when sharing images online. Therefore, it's often recommended to scrub or remove this data when sharing images on the internet." (Source: ChatGPT 2023)

EXIF Data as displayed in the Canon's Digital Photo Professional Post-Processing Software:

Canon EOS 7D Mark II RAW EXIF DATA (After the Exposure / Capture)

EXF DATA : Canon Digital Photo Professional Post-Processing Software 

More on The Exposure Triangle (Aperture / ISO / Shutter Speed) - Exposure Triangle

Latest Canon Digital Photo Professional 4.17.20 For Windows / Mac - Download

The Theory of Photography