Backup Camera to 5d MkII - 7d, 50d or 550d ?

[Keith B]

Ok, so we're on the same page here [img]/emoticons/emotion-2.gif[/img]

Like peas and carrots![8-|]

[Sheiky]

I had to look up that expression, but yes []

[Keith B]

Uh oh! I don't know the meaning. I was hoping it meant I was being a dork.


Called the shop with 5D. $1800. Too much for me.

[Sheiky]

I was hoping it meant I was being a dork.

Something like that yes []

Called the shop with 5D. $1800. Too much for me.

Too bad... 1800 dollars for a 5D1 pfff.

[Keith B]

Too bad... 1800 dollars for a 5D1 pfff.

Yeah for $300 more I can get a refurb 5DII from Adorama. When they have them anyway. If I buy locally I'd have to pay an extra $100 or so in sales tax too.

[Daniel Browning]

I was initially thinking of a 50d as a backup until this situation arose and now after reading the reviews of the 7d and the 550d I am more confused over the decision.

I think the 7D would be the most "complementary" to the 5D2, because it does things that the 5D2 can't, such as 8 FPS. But it's also very expensive, so if you don't need any of the features that make the 7D unique, then saving money with one of the cheaper options would be wise.

[peety3]

I'm a firm believer in having a comparable backup body. Trying to jump from camera to camera, with different menus and overall timing, leads to disappointing results. Jumping to/from crop is tougher still. So I'd rent or go with a 5D2, if it were me.

[neuroanatomist]

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So I could spend the money on a rental for the period or do I look at an additional complimentary/backup camera

Daniel and peety3 are making a key point, IMO. It's important to decide whether you want the second camera to be a complement to your 5DII (once you get it back), or a backup to the 5DII. If the former, the 7D is the best choice. If the latter, another 5DII or an original 5D would be best.
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[Joel]

It is unfortunate to have your 5D MkII fail on you now, but what are you planning on doing with the back-up camera when the 5D MkII comes back? If your looking for some feature your 5D lacks, the 7D is the way to go, depending on what you're planning to shoot.

[ueella]

Thank you all for your input, it has helped to clarify my decision.


On balance I have decided to purchase a new 50d. The cost to rent a 5D2 body for the period is 60% of the price to purchase the 50d, then if I don't get along with the 50d and I can sell it on and lose very little. It will resolve the short term issue of "no camera" and will also give me the opportunity to determine if the crop vs FF will be an issue for me.


I take the point of the 7D being the most complementary to the 5D2 but it will not be my main body and as much as I would like some of the features I think I will wait for the 5D3 or continue to aspire to the 1Ds - then either way have the 5d2 as the (long awaited) backup.


Thank you all again.