Canon EOS 70D: The Guide to Understanding and Using Your Camera (2014)

Preface

The logic for determining the significance of model numbers for the various Canon DSLR models can appear nonexistent. By inference, we’ve concluded that the EOS 1D series—with its various alphabetic suffixes and Mark qualifiers—is the top-of-the-line professional DSLR body. Other single-digit D-series DSLR bodies are generally considered prosumer DSLR bodies, suitable for both advanced amateur photographers and professional photographers. The two-digit D-series DSLR bodies use only APS-C size image sensors, so tend to be less expensive, and the bodies are typically polymer-based rather than metal, so they lack the extremely tight dust and moisture proofing found on the single-digit bodies.

As of early 2014, the Canon EOS 70D is the only camera that provides dual pixel autofocusing technology. Beyond this significant enhancement, the EOS 70D comes with a robust set of menus with which you can fine-tune the camera’s default settings, customize numerous operational parameters, perform several in-camera editing steps, or initiate specific utilities. A number of incremental improvements make the EOS 70D a more capable tool than its predecessors.

The sheer number of features, menus, and other controls available in the EOS 70D tend to overwhelm the mind’s ability to comprehend, recall, and correctly apply the appropriate set of variables for achieving the best possible photos. I encourage you to rely on this book, the Instruction Manual, and the camera’s built-in Help facilities for assistance on those what-and-how concerns, allowing your mind to remain alert for photographic opportunities, composition, and exposure.

The Canon EOS 70D is a sophisticated DSLR, more capable (and complex) than the Rebel series of Canon cameras, the earlier two-digit D-series of Canon cameras, and in many regards even the EOS 6D and EOS 7D Canon cameras. However, it is certainly not in the same league as the 5D Mark III or the professional 1D cameras. I’ve written this book for photographers who are upgrading to the EOS 70D, with the intent to have them understand how to implement and manage the features of this camera.

Though subjects such as shooting movies and shooting stills with the Scene Intelligent Auto mode are mentioned, the audience for this book is expected to be still-photo shooters with a skill set ranging from amateurs with prior DSLR experience to full-time professionals. This book is written for photographers who are comfortable with basic photography, but who need an understanding of the myriad features, functions, options, and settings available with the EOS 70D camera.

The references to Canon models coincide with the model-designations of the models sold in the United States. If you have a model intended for a non-US market, it will likely have a different model designation.