Best Sensors of All Time, Pt 1: Canon 5D Classic

[@stuartcarden1371]

I switched from a 2020 Sony camera to a 5D classic as my main camera because I reached a point where I wasn't sure if I was actually even the photographer anymore. Modern cameras are incredible but they do steal a little bit of joy if you're not careful. No such worry with the 5D because it forces you to make choices regarding exposure, focus and shutter speed if you want a working photo. You will make mistakes but because of that special sensor, it rewards you spectacularly when you get it all right. I've been using the 5D for 6 months now and it's reinvigorated my photography. Long live the Canon 5D because truly deserves to be called Classic!

[@crismm97]

Are you me? I switched from a Sony a6500 to a 5d classic and I absolutely love it. I don't need high fps or hundreds of focus points. The pictures coming out of the 5d just feel so much better. New cameras are almost too good if that makes sense. Also side point everything is so much cheaper, Sony lenses are way too expensive

[@stuartcarden1371]

@@crismm97 - I completely agree. The pictures feel like you can step inside them; they're so alive. I'd recommend it to everyone

[@normanq1206]

@@crismm97 I still have my a6400 but it sits in the closet. I reach for the 5dc or my wife's fujifilm camera all the time. The Sony is technically superior to the other cameras, but the pictures you get don't evoke the same emotions as you get with the 5d or fujifilm's SOOC jpegs.

[@ShutterNChill]

Same with me! I switched back from M50 mark II to the 5D. And learning from that experience I figured out a way to improve the feel of the mirrorless photos as well, but it's still not as good as the 5D. Tricks to improve mirrorless: 1. switch off automatic lens correction 2. use adapted EF lenses 3. Turn sharpening to 0. 4. Toy around a LOT in DPP4 to get the colors etc right.... ;

[@danieljackson654]

I have used my 5D non-stop since I purchased it used on eBay in 2013. How wonderful is this. Portraits, Landscapes, HDR, long exposures at night. My dream camera. Still works although the hotshoe is a bit squirrelly. Functional. My second camera in any job.

[@esppics21]

I love my 5D. This one with my X-Pro1 are the cameras I will never sell. They hold a special place in my heart because they are as close as you can get to a true photographic camera without all the bells and whistles newer cameras offer. Thanks Andrew for covering this camera. And yes the 5D has a CMOS sensor and not a CCD sensor.

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Thanks. Yes I've got an edit in to chop that mistake out.

[@kevrosas1]

Agreed. And also the 6D. Those 3 sensors are just brilliant. I do prefer the XE1 now after trying it. The screens are better than pro1

[@derrenleepoole]

As someone who always told themselves they would never own Canon, or even Nikon for that matter… all because of some misguided notion the cameras where too big and bulky and not my fit, I recently bagged a Canon 5D Classic for 100 quid in near mint condition. I’ve been seeing a lot of KZbinrs like yourself extolling the virtues of the camera and the sensor, so took the plunge. I’ve got to say, the camera is so well made, feels fantastic in the hand… and that sensor is phenomenal! Paired mine with an Olympus OM mount adapter, and the images I’m getting are so nice. The camera is so simple to use and makes a welcome change to most cameras that operate like computers. I did a gig with the camera last night, and got some great captures with beautiful rendering. Like the Leica M9 I use, the trick is to get good exposure in camera, as the RAW files are not quite as pushable as newer camera systems. Best camera buy for sure.

[@Twobarpsi]

I purposely bought a 5D MKII last year specifically for its color science. I could afford any new camera, but wanted this one for the reasons mentioned here. It is unbelievable! I cannot explain how happy I am with it. Reminds me of film, compared to modern cameras.

[@yellowbearworks2535]

I also just purchased a mint 5D (somehow 6D did not worked for me), however I still have the vivid and clear color science of the 5DMkII in my memories. It was also a stunning light capturer, but in an entirely different style.

[@Twobarpsi]

@@yellowbearworks2535 5D is also another great camera as well!

[@LyndonPatrickSmith]

Great video! Love the 5D. One menu page folks! In this day and age of 1500 menu options on some new cameras, think about the peaceful shooting experience of 1 menu page.

[@AxelBlaze5]

Canon 5D Classic is "THE VERY BEST" camera I've used ever. I also have Sony A7 IV, Canon R10 & Nikon D850 at my arsenal but the images I get out of my 5D Classic is just phenomenal and no other camera would ever be able to replicate the images that this camera is capable of producing.

[@russellmann8297]

One of your best videos ever. I have used many different SLR’s since 1973 started with a Pentax ME Super. I used Canon products from about 2003 until now but I also have used Sony and Fujifilm mirrorless. Canon’s color science is a real thing and once hooked it’s hard to ever leave. With my 5D it was special. I never felt it lacked anything or thought there was anything better than what I had and was using. Almost no editing straight out of camera. Thank for this excellent review.

[@RhettAnderson]

Great video. The 5D and the D700 are stars.

[@1234five1]

This is going to be a great series. Thank you thank you!

[@pratipkarmakar01]

Bring canon 6d classic for part 2😊

[@tanvach]

We just had a baby and have been using X100F to take photos of him growing up. It’s been fine. Recently I misplaced that camera so went back to my old 5D which I haven’t turned on for a long while. What a difference - totally forgot the joy of using this classic. It’s like meeting an old friend again.

[@wanderlustdetailer]

Do you like the pics coming out of it better?

[@kbarrett1844]

Great series!! The 5D is fantastic for all the reasons you've stated. Hoping that you'll feature the Nikon D700 as well as certain CCD sensors (D50, D200 etc.) from the early age of DSLRs

[@kiwipics]

Being a user of Kodachrome when I started in photography back in the 70s, I really wouldn't describe the 5d files as kodachrome like in their look. I started out with digital late (2004) when I moved from my Canon EOS1, EOS 650 and EOS 600RT to an EOS 10d and 5d. I've now dabbled with many formats and manufacturers, but always prefer my older Canon equipment.

[@MegaSoundscapes]

Great video , thankx ! totally agree with the image quality of the 5D Classic. If you have seen the colors and the rendering it produces, you will want this quality always in all of your photos.

[@Digital_Photog1995]

Agree with you! I still use my 5D classic and a Nikon D200. Both have unique sensors that most resemble what I shot with certain films. Basic in many ways but I find the rendering to be what I like in my images.

[@xcx8646]

I had a D200 before my 5D mk I. I was under the impression that the D200 was fabled for its skin tones, but by every measure the 5D renders much more pleasing colours, skin tones and images.

[@christos1973]

I use mine with vintage M42, OM, Ai and PK manual lenses and sometimes even cover the screen with black tape to completely reproduce shooting my film EOS cameras.

[@robertmccutchan5450]

It's never been a better time to be a photographer, as far as access to gear is concerned. For $200-$300 (USD), a person can pick up some high quality gear like the 5D Classic, 50mm lens, and a 35mm lens, and shoot about anything professionally. If Canon came out with this exact camera brand new, I'd buy 2 of them. The sound of the shutter and the look of the images are amazing!! Thanks for posting!

[@JamesRodkey]

The original 5D was my first full-frame digital camera, and I agree about the sensor - it produces very special images. The only thing that might be worth mentioning to people used to more modern gear is that the original 5D didn't have any kind of self-cleaning sensor, so part of 5D ownership involves keeping dust off of the sensor (and invariably cloning out dust spots if you're shooting stopped down). Auto sensor cleaning was added to the 5D mkII, but it's sadly missing from the one featured here.

[@segzeeman7356]

Wow! All the photos were so beautiful! You’re truly blessed to live in such a sunny area.

[@thedondeluxe6941]

My first pro digital camera and at the time the most expensive thing I had ever bought... still have it to this day!😄 One of the few cameras I will never sell. Fantastic look straight out of the camera.

[@christopherbgriffith]

Ooh, I'm all about this series. 👏 I'm sure you've already got the episodes lined up, but I'll go ahead and venture my opinion for other sensors to cover: - Leica M8/M9 (the latter being designed by Kodak to emulate Kodachrome) - Nikon Df (or D4) - Pentax 645D (rare medium format CCD sensor) - Fujifilm X-T1 (X-trans II) - Olympus Four Thirds DSLRs, like the E500 These all carry a lot of inherent character.

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Great suggestions!

[@tymyatt-qk8wh]

I’ll second the 4/3 cameras. I have an E-1 and L1 that make wonderful images. Would be glad to lend them for the series even.

[@alexisval-e5x]

Couldn't agree more. This camera and the Pentax 645D have the best CCD sensors, colours are beautiful. The CCD kodak chip in the imacon film scanners is the best I've ever seen for color rendition.

[@JackieDElia]

Hi Andrew, I completely agree. When I look back at my 5D Mark III photos, I ask myself why I ever sold it. Now I shoot Fuji X-T5 and my favorite lens is that old Fujifilm 35mm f/1.4 - it has character. I often think about buying back a Canon on KEH. I’ve had great experiences with KEH both selling and buying.

[@kevrosas1]

KEH won’t tell you if it’s had the recall or tell you the serial number if not shown. All a gamble.

[@eggyjones]

I recently picked up a mint 5d classic. I did own one when it released and now use R5's for work but due to the high cost of film I though id revisit the 5d. Its still a fabulous sensor and a fantastic bargain, got mine for £150. Great with the 40mm pancake. Thanks for sharing.

[@maxhamman]

Thank you for showing some love to the 5D, it's still my go-to.

[@michaelc4917]

5D with old Canon film era EF lens is an even better combo. Just watch out for the mirror fall off inside thr the 5D. Happened to both of mine.

[@codyallen3729]

Just happened to mine but glued it back in and seems to be holding

[@DessieTots]

Mirror fall off only a problem with models that have a serial number starting with ‘0’

[@TheDavveponken]

@@DessieTots I don't think so, but you can see if they are fixed by the railings on the mirror on both sides

[@timotheemohr2805]

These older DSLRs truly taught me how to actually use a camera. I came from a Sony a6600, and at the time I just didn't know what I was doing at all. I acquired a dirt cheap Canon 7D later to shoot raw video, but as soon as I flipped the switch to photography mode everything changed. I just loved the shooting experience and the colors that came out of that camera. From then on I tried out other dslrs like the 5D, which is the nicest shooting experience for me. Anyways, thanks for the video. Definitely waiting for other models to be included in the series

[@betodeth]

Part 2 pls ❤

[@chasingwind114]

I was not intending to watch this, and I wasn’t intending to enjoy it… but I did! I really did. Your experience industry and the ability communicate the important aspects is unrivalled. I think everyone is enjoying this broadening perspective of photography as we emerge from the trap of gear comparison, and you really capture the joy, without imposing unhelpful statements about this being better than that. Thanks again!

[@ActualCounterfactual]

Just mentioned in another video how much I loved my 5D... then after my mirror dropped out mid-wedding, I never fully trusted it again. However, its truly a great feeling working with this camera Its a bit like back in the analogue days, to get results we must read the light carefully + waiting for all to fall into place, and this is NOT a bad thing. We become "better" photographers, since we must think before shooting. Today we have 20 frames a second + dynamic range from black night to the Sahara sun ... and a resolution to astronomical proportions... so less thinking is needed before we act, and we become lazy.

[@412foto]

I've shot Pentax, Nikon, Fujifilm, Mamiya, and I am sure a few others but never Canon. Just recently picked up one of these for cheap along with a 50mm f/1.4 and can't wait to see what photos look like

[@john-is8ox]

Glad to see your new start, best wishes and much success

[@zevindd]

Great video series idea. I hope the Fuji S5 Pro makes the list!

[@TheDtiminski]

Thank you for the video, Andrew! I owned 5d several years ago because of the color. I agree that modern sensors are too correct and similar to each other and therefore less unique and interesting. I would also remind two remarkable cameras Kodak DCS Pro SLR/n and Fujifilm s5 pro with ccd sensor. For my liking - s5 pro has the most pleasing colors! And Foveon sensor is worth mention too😊

[@artsilva]

As a Nikon shooter for 45 years, a Fuji shooter for 11 years I recently picked up a Canon 5D mark II. It was about a 3 years ago after I picked up a Z5 I decides to get back to DSLRs. A year ago I finally got my dream DSLR, the D850. Now as amazing as newer sensors are I was still missing something. I then dusted off my old D100 and D200 CCD cameras and was re-introduced to the magic within those cameras, so started researching Without my usual Bias to my beloved systems I was looking into all the old sensors. I came across a deal I couldn't pass up with the 5D II. I also have interest in the 5D classic and also the Nikon D700 which for some reason I dismissed years ago but that Panasonic 12Mp sensor is [in my eyes] the 5D classic of Nikon. So yes, I agree that new sensor tech is boring and the classic Nikon and Canons are very characteristic in their own way. Choosing one of those cameras is like choosing which film stock to use, how awesome is That?! I think many of us who lived trough the digital and film age understands the value in the old classic DSLRs. To be fair, Fujifilm X-Trans I and X-Trans II are in that discussion. The X-Trans III was the last Fujis I would buy because after that it became redundant and worse as far as unique-ness imho.

[@412foto]

I just got a D700 recently after having sold it a few years back. Mirrorless is making me lazy. Not to mention the D700 and its rare sensor, are MAGICAL!

[@artsilva]

@@412foto I agree. after going mirrorless for a solid eight years After spending decades with SLR/DSLR cameras I too found myself losing my creative edge with mirrorless. It was too easy with those cameras and I felt mediocrity starting to settle in because I didn't have to THINK about how I was shooting something..

[@412foto]

@@artsilva not having to think and have eye detect and seeing that light is on point is a plus in some situations of course and some would argue by eliminating those things you can concentrate on composition and connecting with your subject.

[@artsilva]

@@412foto I grew up that lighting is your most critical element in a photograph and knowing how to creatively expose it. once I have that composition and subject focus closely follows, because without good light nothing else matters at that point. Mirrorless cameras takes the fun and challenge out of the process.

[@johnwilliamson6442]

I switched to mirrorless (Sony A7R in 2013) so that I could adapt older manual focus lenses on to it. That gets the creative juices flowing. Try that before going back to SLR with its bulk.

[@traianima]

bought the 5D classic in 2012. It was my first full frame camera. It had the best jpeg skin tones ever.

[@alaryani100]

For me, old Canon DSLR cameras have wonderful colors, better than they are now.

[@quang5DCameras]

That's so True but most people nowadays don't realize that. They are always looking for a New camera release... LOL!

[@camillaablom]

Wonderful photos!😍 how does the old 40D compare to the 5D in regards to getting that filmlike quality, color rendering etc?

[@dogstoryteller]

@AndrewGoodCamera what do you think? Is the 40d sensor color rendering similar to 5d classic?

[@superbug1977]

What an excellent video! I own three Canon 5D classics because I'm afraid I may need parts and that the new vogue the camera seems to be experiencing will make them like the Porsche 912--primitive but preferable. And that is when rich folks buy them up. I will say that adding the Sigma 50mm Art lens(50mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art) to the 5D classic really improves things. And that is what I have done.

[@quazisanjeed6395]

Spot on. I own this camera and love it. Thank you for the video.

[@vincentmarinelli2935]

Excellent vidéo , we want an episode 2 😊😊😊 have a Nice day !

[@marshalltravis3217]

I recently acquired a 5D classic and I love it. ( Thanks to KEH ) I got a sweet deal. I was out shooting with it for the first time and somehow I ended up in the camera store and somehow managed to get a mark II…😄

[@garyallen7868]

Love my 5D, great camera period.

[@infinitesky-59]

If you do another one of these do give some consideration to the Canon 40d. It came out a couple of years after the 5d classic and is a kind of crop sensor version of it but with improved screen etc and available for very little money.

[@MF_Plissken]

i started with a minolta a2 and switched to a 20d. after a short stint i had to get a very good offer for a 5d. after a good while i added an oly omd em1 with an adapter for the canon lenses. couple weeks ago i got a nikon d200 and an 80 200 2.8 one touch. id like to have a fujifilm pro1 but theyre still expensive together with a lens. anyways i feel like im well setup and the pics so far are VERY pleasing. minolta gone a long time ago and the 20d may rest in peace. so my recommendations for film character dslrs on a budget are the 5d and a d200 with good old lenses. the oly em1 just for the sake of the backbone ;D

[@infinitesky-59]

I returned to hobby photography this year and bought a used 5d3 as it was once a dream camera that I could now afford. Sadly the images didnt match up to those from my old 40d. Theres just something about the colours from the older Canons. Have since sold the 5d3 and am buying a 5d classic and another 40d. Its all subjective of course but too many photographers with far more experience than me keep seeing the same things.

[@wkjagt]

I love that there's no part 2. It confirms that the 5D Classic sensor really has the best sensor of all time.

[@suzukitaka4470]

waiting for pt2!

[@davidgurevich8750]

I got 5D a few weeks ago, still learning it's limitations, but so far i love everything about it. The only thing I am missing is Auto ISO. The ergonomics and the controls of 5D are great. The other old great sensor is in Nikon D200, my favorite, hope it's on your list of Best Sensors. Thanks for the video.

[@alexsol785]

Canon 6d mk 1 is basically a 5d classic with auto Iso and better screen. Pick one up, they are great for low light and have almost the same rendering as the 5d classic

[@davidgurevich8750]

@@alexsol785 5D was released 2005 with 12.8 mpx, 6D released date 2012 with 20 mpx. 7years later - i would expect it to be a different camera, no?

[@alexsol785]

@@davidgurevich8750 yeah, but somehow its the closest Canon has come to the 5d Classic. Even the 5d mk 2 is very different from the classic

[@davidgurevich8750]

@@alexsol785 ok, I'll keep it mind, maybe when I see good deal on 6D I'll get one. I do miss Auto ISO. Thanks.

[@OutRAjious]

Yes The velvety BLACK IN THE 5D has never been equalled …. and great for socials with a flash

[@matthieuzglurg6015]

few sensors that could get on the list for this series : - Nikon D3/D700 - Fuji X-Pro 1 - Sigma SD9 - Sigma SD1 Merill - Canon 1DS - Nikon D1 - Nikon D200 - Leica M8 - Leica M9 - Sigma SD Quattro / H - Olympus E1 - Kodak DCS Pro 14n

[@codyallen3729]

D4/DF

[@70sRetroRoom]

Awesome video.

[@omphileneo]

Great video. Had me looking to see if I can find these on my side of the world and how much they would go for. Haha.

[@Edlouis564]

I thought I was the only one, modern sensors just don't do it for me. Still remember saving up 1k for the 5D classic in 2009, its color and rendering were magic. Still shoot with a Mark II after all these years and its colors just feel so much better than newer cameras I've tried replacing it with, 5D mark 4, Canon R, R6, Sony mirrorless. Only new camera I loved is a friends Hasselblad 100mp X2d, beautfiul images.

[@Island-pool]

Many of us that started with MF cameras and film, only choices were iso rating of film. I bought the 5d because it is the most film like digital camera. Speed isn’t a big deal for us film guys

[@handel1111]

I'm still using my Olympus EM1 Classic wonderful camera

[@Eric1396]

Very interesting topic!

[@xcx8646]

I prefer older sensors and I particularly like the one in my 5D mk I. To me it paints in watercolours, whereas newer sensors colour-in with felt-tip pens.

[@landodream]

I just made a short video on it too. It’s pretty crazy what you can pick up for chips!

[@denislaroche3957]

I have the 5D classic, I would suggest the Nikon D700 the Canon 6D mk 1, the Fuji xpro-1/e1, the Nikon Df and the Leica M8,

[@nickk1683]

5d classic or 5d mark ii ? What do you recomend?

[@LetiB76]

I'm curious what your thoughts are in comparison to the 5dmark 2 , also a very legendary sensor and camera ?

[@perin99]

Great video. I love my 5D even though I own far more technically superior cameras. The 5D is like a film SLR with a digital back. I own two cheap Canon lenses for it - a 50 and a 35. I mainly shoot stopped down in a studio and they're easily good enough for my needs. I agree that the dynamic range is poor and I agree that images from it require minimal editing. That shouldn't make sense but it's true. The spec sheet makes it look rubbish but it is so, so good.

[@dgillphotos]

I loved my Canon 5D. I'd love to see how it interacts with Adobe's AI Noise removal tool.

[@kevrosas1]

Same as any CR2 raw or jpeg

[@lerx1980]

Canon 5D hast the best sensor. I love it so much. Only downside is the autofocus. I have so many great pictures where the autofocus missed its target. :/ Still a great camera if you know what to do

[@lerx1980]

Next up Canon 6D? ;)

[@Smoothblue90]

Nikon D700?

[@lerx1980]

@@Smoothblue90 Never owned one. But you’re right. They are told to have a very good rendering too.

[@ShutterNChill]

I have read that Canon collaborated with Kodak to develop their digital sensors.... makes sense it feels like Kodak film ; ).

[@realmf85]

Great video! Did you shoot in RAW with the 5D or are this JPGs straight out of camera? 🤯😍

[@Twobarpsi]

He said jpeg with minor contrast adjustments.

[@allee2445]

The price on 'classic' 5D was under $100 few years ago and now almost $300! Not sure I can blame inflation lol

[@TheChosenOne_]

if you are willing to buy it in a bundle you can still get it for very little money

[@RhettAnderson]

MPB has several in good condition for $184.

[@quang5DCameras]

The problem with KEH is I can NOT see real details of each angle of camera I'm interested. KEH doesn't use a macro lens to shoot their products to sell which sucks...

[@richardbukowski3300]

D700 and D300 would be good options.

[@jravell]

It’s not the sensor, it’s the image processor. The 400D (and a fee other EOS cameras) has the same image processor and the images have the same feel.

[@shuax]

Hi what are the other EOS's with this image processor as I like the look and feel of it

[@Smoothblue90]

Andrew!

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Howdy

[@bassmusicman2034]

I found one in a pawnshop for $400 is it worth that…?

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

Unless it is pristine, no

[@photosquare7]

With the 5D I always had problems with bad precision of the AF. I missed many shots. I skipped the 5D II, because the AF of this cam was not improved. The 5D III has a great AF. I use it for sports till today.

[@markrigg6623]

Dude, that sensor was famous for blowing highlights and bad magenta colour noise.

[@UP209D]

Is it really the best sensor of all time, there were still 1Ds2 1Ds3

[@FOTO_EXPERT]

👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@Babenberger]

I often use my Queen Mum with the Zeiss Distagon 21/2.8 ZE in the fall.

[@quang5DCameras]

The 5D classic and MK2 feel like Portra 400 color skin tone are really good compare to these New crappies mirrorless R6 or R5 color skin tone which look so ugly Mangenta. I Don't Care of these R5, R6 or R6MkII or MK3 or MK10 later on. I don't know what Canon has in mind to make that stupid change...

[@brugj03]

Modern sensors are not sterile, most modern lenses are, especially zooms. They render flat, characterless and lifeless images. I think most nature photography sucks on the 5d, it`s just boring as hell. Faces and skintones are quite nice though. Still, i think this is a nice camera that doesn`t live up to the hype. I think it`s mediocre at best and bottom of the barrel at worst. No use taking the trouble with in 2024.

[@scotthullinger4684]

Fuji has the best sensors of all time - This goes back at least a few decades. Fuji also has the best color science. Not hard to understand, since Fuji is a film manufacturer. Lots of great cameras out there. And Fuji has a very high percentage of them.

[@TheChosenOne_]

Are you certain that the sensor is CCD? I'm pretty sure its CMOS

[@AndrewGoodCamera]

CMOS not CCD. Thanks

[@RhettAnderson]

I don't think Canon made a full frame CCD camera.