40D: Live View

[almo]

I am considering the 40D. I have a 30D and like it just fine really. The 2mp difference means nothing to me, and as far as I can see the IQ is pretty much the same. It's the live view that I want. Is it really useful for macro and walkabout stuff? It's hard for a guy my size to hit the deck, or bend over for macro work. A live view screen would really be nice. But I wouldn't bother if it is more gimicky than useful.

Thanks!

[OldClicker]

I am considering the 40D. I have a 30D and like it just fine really. The 2mp difference means nothing to me, and as far as I can see the IQ is pretty much the same. It's the live view that I want. Is it really useful for macro and walkabout stuff? It's hard for a guy my size to hit the deck, or bend over for macro work. A live view screen would really be nice. But I wouldn't bother if it is more gimicky than useful.

Thanks!

Absolutely wonderful. (The flip-up/down screen is even better.) I probably use Live View more than half the time and use both on many of the other shots. We all have different needs and shooting styles, but I see those who simply dismiss it as merely being unable (or unwilling) to learn a new tool. – TF

btw – If you do not have a lot currently invested, I would consider going to the Sony A350 just for the flip-up/down Live View.

[poker]

I thought I wouldn't use it but I did like using it for macro. I like being able to move the subject around and check the live view for the composition and focus. It does help in some situations.

[almo]

I thought I wouldn't use it but I did like using it for macro. I like being able to move the subject around and check the live view for the composition and focus. It does help in some situations.

Yeah, but is it good enough to be the only reason I would upgrade? Like I said, the MP's don't matter to me. IQ is close enough to be the same. I already get 5fps that I don't use.

I just hate to think that I'd upgrade for a feature that is not well implemented, or not as useful as I was hoping. Otherwise I'd just wait around until the 5D became cheap enough to pick one up. If given the choice today I'd likely take a FF sensor over live view anyway, but a FF not being affordable to me I have to be practical.

Thanks!

[Loupey]

The LCD of the 40D is quite dim (compared to that of the 50D) but functional.

I don't use the live view but the LCD display is better than those on point-and-shoots. The focus point is clearer and there is virtually no lag in the display.