It’s quite obvious that the 1D Mark II N has been replaced by the Mark III. Yet, the Mark II N is an exceptional machine, and one that held the frame-rate record until the introduction of the Mark III. At the time of this writing, the Mark II N is a very popular machine, is still listed in Canon’s product line, and deserves at least a few lines in this blog (FIG 3.14).
FIG 3.14
Photojournalists find the 8.5 frame per second rate (up to 48 full resolution jpegs in one continuous burst) enormously useful when covering, well, anything that moves. It’s also the camera of choice for many wedding and event photographers, who carry a Mark II N to capture subtleties of expression, and with more frames to choose from, than any other camera could catch. For those moments that don’t require the full 8.5 frames per second burst, photographers have second choice, a 3 frames per second rate. This machine also sports an 8.2 megapixel CMOS sensor and the Digic II processor, which explains the exceptional image quality and processing speed (FIGS 3.15-3.17).
FIG 3.15
FIG 3.16
FIG 3.17
As the first in the professional EOS-1 line, the Mark II N’s magnesium alloy body is weather sealed, to allow working in mildly inclement weather or under dusty conditions. With a shutter that’s designed for approximately 200,000 actuations before service (it’s only a guideline, Canons of every model have performed flawlessly well beyond the manufacturer’s expectations) it’s a terrific machine. The 2.5 inch LCD doesn’t hurt, either (FIG 3.18).
FIG 3.18
The Mark II N’s big brother, the 1Ds Mark II features a very impressive full frame, 16.7 megapixel CMOS sensor, large enough to threaten the realm of medium format digital cameras, but with versatility that only comes with a full line of lenses and accessories.
This is the camera for commercial shooters who desire easy, intuitive operation and impressive high quality, wrapped in an attractive and durable package. This is also the camera for Canon portrait photographers who want the largest file possible, for the most enlargement opportunities FIG 3.19).
FIG 3.19
Just because a particular model is discontinued doesn’t make it worthless.
There are many shooters out there who need, or always want to have, the newest gear. Consequently, whenever Canon introduces a new model, the online auction sites, list sites (such as Craigslists.com), and camera stores see many cameras put up for sale. If you can’t afford a new machine, take advantage of new model introduction and spend time looking for used gear. Do your homework and investigate carefully, as these are mostly “as is”sales, but you may be able to acquire exactly what you want at a really sweet price. Be patient. The best deals usually come several months after a new model has been introduced.
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