Canon 6D Mark II: Full-Frame Farewell for Enthusiasts

In the summer of 2017, Canon unveiled the much-anticipated 6D Mark II. This camera had a lot of buzz surrounding it, especially among Canon fans who had been waiting for an upgrade since the original 6D came out about four years earlier. So, what’s new and exciting about the 6D Mark II? Let’s dive in.

Familiar Feel with Modern Twists

When you first get your hands on the Canon 6D Mark II, it feels pretty familiar if you've used the original 6D. It’s almost the same weight, only a tiny bit heavier. But one of the most noticeable new features is the vari-angle touchscreen. This is a game-changer. Imagine shooting from tricky angles—over your head or down low—and being able to see what you’re doing and adjust focus with a tap on the screen. It’s super handy.

Under the Hood Improvements

The big changes in the Canon 6D Mark II are mostly on the inside:

• DIGIC 7 Processor: This means the camera processes everything faster and better. Whether you’re taking quick snapshots or shooting something more complex, it handles it all smoothly.
• 45-Point Autofocus System: Compared to the old 11 points, this new system is way more accurate. It’s especially helpful for capturing action shots where you need quick and precise focus.
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF: This technology makes focusing during live view and video shooting much quicker and more reliable. If you like shooting videos, this is a big plus.

Picture Quality and Performance

The 26.2-megapixel full-frame sensor in the 6D Mark II is a step up. It captures beautiful details and colors. Plus, the ISO range goes up to 40,000 (expandable to 102,400), so you can take great photos even in low light. Whether it’s a night scene or a dimly lit room, this camera can handle it.

Shooting Speed

The Canon 6D Mark II can shoot at 6.5 frames per second. This is great if you’re into sports or wildlife photography because you can capture fast-moving subjects more easily. The upgraded autofocus system helps you keep your subject in sharp focus, even when it’s moving quickly.

Video Capabilities

While some might be disappointed that the 6D Mark II doesn’t support 4K video, it does shoot Full HD at 60 frames per second. That’s an improvement from the 30 frames per second on the old model. Plus, you can create cool 4K time-lapse videos directly in the camera, which is a neat feature for those who enjoy time-lapse photography.

Connectivity Options

Today, staying connected is important, and the 6D Mark II has you covered:

• Wi-Fi: Easily transfer photos and control your camera remotely from your smartphone.
• Bluetooth: Keeps a constant connection with your devices, so sharing photos and remote shooting is easy and doesn’t drain the battery too much.
• NFC and GPS: These features make it easier to pair with other devices and add location data to your photos, which is great for travelers.

Price and Availability

The Canon 6D Mark II hit the market with a price tag of €2,169 for just the body, and €2,599 for a kit that includes the 24-105mm f/4L II IS USM lens. There’s also an optional battery grip for €209.99, which lets you use two batteries at once perfect for those long shooting sessions.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Canon 6D Mark II brings some solid improvements over its predecessor. While it might not have every advanced feature you’d find in higher-end models, it balances performance and price nicely. The upgraded autofocus, better image quality, and improved connectivity make it a great choice for both hobbyists and serious photographers. If you’re looking to step up your photography game, the 6D Mark II is definitely worth considering.