In Comparison

By Ken Parks

The new Canon 6D is finally on the market. And by all appearance, it seems to have the features for APS-C users to make the jump to a full frame dSLR at a relatively reasonable price. Previously, Nikon released their low-end full frame camera, the D600 for a bit more than the MSRP of $2,000. Canon was forced to compete in having to make a competitive camera for about the same amount. It was mostly a quick marketing strategy as opposed to the result of putting out a better camera.

The Canon 6D has a plastic top (polycarbonate), designed from the same body of the 60D and not as sturdy as the complete magnesium alloy 7D body. The 6D does not have full weather-proof buttons. The 7D does. The 6D has only one processor. The 7D has two processors, topping out at 8-frames per second while the 6D max’s out at 4.5 frames per second. Trivial as it may sound, the 7D has 100% frame coverage while the 6D viewing is at 97%. The flash sync of the 6D is only 1/180 sec. and the 7D boasts 1/250 sec.

Granted, there are some positive aspects of the 6D, but not enough for this author to render it in the class of durability and necessary features of a professional wedding photographer. The 6D will do well in an environment that favors good weather and less chances of being damaged.

Again, I believe this was a marketing strategy aimed after the introduction of the Nikon full-frame dSLR, the D600. Dpreview.com has a chart comparison between the Canon 6D and the Nikon D600. Although I’m a Canon buff, the rival Nikon D600 seems to have a bit more to offer in terms of specifications.

On the other hand, the 6D brings to the forefront a GPS and WiFi feature over its competition. I don’t see these features as an absolute in having to acquire this camera and a new set of full frame lenses (non APS-C ). The cost factor in changing to a completely different system (camera and lenses) is a major decision maker not to jump ship. I’m staying with the 7D.