In this world of hundreds of auto focus points, phase detection, high ISO performance, burst rate nonsense; is less really more? Is it possible that the Canon 5D Classic, a decade old full frame DSLR, can hold up to the most modern of cameras? Can a camera that was first introduced when the XBOX 360 was about to be released really hold up today and be a competent shooter? I can probably answer those questions as I’ve been a Canon 5D Classic user for the past two years – I have racked up thousands of photographs and countless hours using one, so I thought I’d put together a bit of a review of this ageing DSLR.
Before I Start
First, some backstory. Although it wasn’t the first full frame DSLR (that honour goes to the Contax N which was released all the way back in 2002) the Canon 5D (or 5D Classic as it’s often called today) was still a fairly early model with it being released back in October of 2005. I was only 10 years old at the time, and totally oblivious to it’s existence.
Short of the fairly expensive Canon 1Ds MKii, most DSLRs of the era had APS-C sensors, which weren’t pushing blistering resolution or ISO performances. So to have a lower cost, full frame, DSLR was a huge leg up for Canon. The 5D ran all the way until 2008 when the MKii was announced and released with a vastly improved sensor, video capabilities and a review screen that actually looks ok with a photo on it.
The MKii also didn’t have the massive issue of the mirror coming off during use… The early 5D’s (serial numbers starting with 0 or 1 made in 2005/2006) had the not insignificant issue of the camera wanting to be a full frame mirrorless camera. Early models were offered a free fix from Canon, but it was fixed in the factory with the later versions (serial numbers starting with 2 or 3 made in 2007/2008).
As mentioned, I’ve had mine for around two years now and it hasn’t skipped a beat. The 5D Classic was made to take a tumble and to be used as a photographic tool. I’ve used it in the rain, dropped it, knocked it and even clipped the mirror with legacy lenses. Mine certainly isn’t the prettiest, and it is usually covered in Gorilla tape to cover logos and the corners of the camera. It’s rugged exterior of magnesium alloy really speaks to you that it was built to last, and built to be used and abused – the 5D Classic wasn’t made to look pretty or to sit on the mantle piece.
The 5D Classic Specs
What’re the specs? The Canon 5D Classic uses a 12.8mp sensor, which by today’s standards isn’t exactly high, but I’d argue is more than usable. As mentioned, it is encased in a magnesium alloy body which feels sturdy and well built – I think of it as a reassuring heft when using it.
ISO
The ISO range is 100-1600 but can be expanded to 50-3200 in the custom functions. I’ve heard that the ISO 50 contains more noise than ISO 100 due to it being software based, but I haven’t noticed anything in my years of shooting with this camera. Speaking of ISO, it isn’t at all bad for a camera released in 2005. While it isn’t a low light beast, you can easily overcome this by using fast lenses or just reducing the noise in post.
The screen
When you have taken your images with your 5D Classic, you might want to check them out on the preview screen on the back…? I would advise not to, as it’s the main downfall of this camera for me. It’s a 2.5” 230,000 pixel LCD panel which is fairly useless for image viewing, but great for the minimal menu – I would recommend to leave the image preview off.
AF
It features a 9 point AF system, which again in today’s world isn’t great, but if you’re like me and use a centre focus point it’s no issue. Just like every other EOS camera, auto focus is fast, though this does depend on the lens you use. All 9 focus points are chosen with the rear nipple nub protrusion, which acts as a form of multi-direction control. Autofocus is activated as normal by half pressing the shutter button with focus confirmation in the viewfinder and/or with the audible ‘beep’.
The controls and interface
The Canon 5D Classic button layout is highly intuitive and easy to use with each button and dial serving a purpose with nothing in the way or complicating matters. Having the rear command dial is a life saver for one handed use, as you can change aperture on the rear dial, shutter speed on the front dial. You can even change the ISO with the same hand by pressing the button on the top in front of the LCD and operating the rear dial.
Speaking of which, the top LCD tells you all of the info you need: Shutter speed, aperture, ISO, white balance, drive mode, metering, exposure, file type, battery info etc. This means the rear screen is mainly used for menus and looking at your images as a pixelated mess. The video mode offers an amazing resolution of… 0 x 0 pixels! That’s right, it doesn’t feature a video mode, or even live view! Like I said, it’s a photographers camera, it’s extremely minimal, and that’s why I love it so much!
The Viewfinder
The viewfinder – which is a massive, huge, Brobdingnagian – shows you your shutter speed, aperture and exposure value as well as focus confirmation and ISO when changing it. While it only covers 96% of the frame, the large size and bright pentaprism setup makes composition really easy. The focus screens are also changeable to suit ones needs, but I’ve used the regular screens for AF lenses and MF lenses with no issues.
Speed of use
The 5D Classic offers a 3fps continuous burst which is in no way fast. You aren’t going to be capturing fast paced sports in the same way you might be able to with some modern cameras. Although it will shoot up to 1/8000th, which is nice to have even if it’s rarely utilised.
In the hand
The grip is comfortable and features lots of room for large handed people. I’m around 190cm or so, and the Canon 5D Classic fits perfectly in my hand, with everything within reach and without the need to become a digit contortionist. In real world use, it’s no different to the countless other Canons and Nikons out there – if anything the Canon 5D Classic set a precedent for the DSLRs to follow. If you’ve used a pro-body Canon in the last 10 years, you’ll feel right at home with the Canon 5D Classic.
Beware – Opinion Ahead
I feel that modern digital cameras as packed full of features which, in reality, are totally unnecessary. Just think of all the people using film cameras, and for how long they were used perfectly adequately before we had hundreds of focus points or ISOs above 3200-6400.
In my mind, packing more features into cameras doesn’t make for better photographers, in fact, for the most part I feel they just overcomplicate the process for the large majority of users. The Canon 5D Classic was a product of the emerging digital era and the declining film era. While it was packed with a state of the art full frame sensor, it handled and worked more similarly to a film camera than the cameras of today do.
Of course, any modern DSLR will trample over the Canon 5D Classic when it comes to high ISO performance and overall speed of function, but I wouldn’t say that they could trample it with image quality – and how many photographers actually really need all that performance. While you can pull more detail and potentially print bigger with today’s higher megapixel sensors, there is something about the 5D’s superb image quality that they can’t match up to in my opinion.
Many people have come to this conclusion, and I am inclined to agree – the Canon 5D Classic has a certain filmic feel to the images. The colours are so rich and vibrant and there’s a certain organic nature to the images of which the 5D creates. I’ve always found that the images I get out of the 5D Classic rarely need drastic editing, and are usually perfect out of the camera.
Example Images
Lens adapting
The Canon 5D Classic utilises the EF mount which has a vast array of lenses available for it. While the EOS lenses are great, some are often expensive or just out of reach. Thankfully, (unlike the Nikon F system) the EOS system is fairly friendly when it comes to using classic lenses.
Classic lenses can have a new lease of life when coupled to a full frame DSLR. I for one have been using M42 thread mount lenses since I’ve used the 5D Classic which I find really adds another level to the already filmic aesthetic of the 5D’s images.
A lot of the older lenses have a certain optical nuance that newer lenses don’t have, and I’m not just saying they can be softer than a pat of butter during mid summer. Some have that ‘3D pop’ that so many rave about and argue over in forums, some produce unique bokeh, and some even blow you away with the sheer optical performance.
Just a word of advice though, if one is interested in tying out classic lens, be careful of what M42 lenses you use as some can clip the mirror. The Helios 44-2 is a good example of a lens that will clip the mirror when you get close to infinity. To use it, you will have to shave the rear of the lens.
To be honest, the 50mm f/1.8 STM is the lens usually coupled to my camera, but I do like to dabble and use legacy lenses when I can. There are so many great lenses out there, that it’s a shame for them not to be experimented with and enjoyed once in a while!
A Coda
So… is it worth buying the Canon 5D Classic in 2018? There seems to have been a lot of attention given to this ageing digital camera recently, with various Youtube channels explaining the ins and outs of the camera and comparing it to the latest and greatest offerings.
In my opinion, it’s all down to the user. You have to think about if you can live with the creative limitations that the 5D Classic brings to the table, as well as the thought of using a camera that’s ageing day by day. The price has dropped massively over the last few years and it’s now become an absolute steal – I’ve seen the Canon 5D Classic go for under £200 from time to time and I’m now even considered buying a second body in the knowledge that these cameras are ageing, and – despite the incredible build quality – mine won’t last forever.
Ultimately, it’s my view that if you’re looking for a cheap entrance into the world of full frame DSLRs, you can’t beat the Canon 5D Classic in terms of image quality, lens selection, and catching an outright bargain. The mixture of the beautiful sensor and the film-camera-feel makes it a compelling camera to use. It’s served me rather well over the last couple of years, and I intend to use it until it’s dying day; I really feel as it’s in a class of it’s own. Less really is more, the Canon 5D Classic is a perfect example of this!
I hope you enjoyed what I have created, you can find more of my work here – raygoodwinphotos.tumblr.com
You can also find my work on Instagram @raygoodwinphotos
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Blinx on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 08/09/2018
Comment posted: 08/09/2018
Reinhold Graf on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 08/09/2018
It retired as I wanted something less heavy-weight and something more high-ISO.
I never complained about it’s image quality.
When playing with legacy lenses the last years, I nearly ruined the mirror ;)
So for the moment it rests in peace ... but who knows ... your post makes me thinking, that this camera would deserve some extended photographic life ;)
Comment posted: 08/09/2018
Comment posted: 08/09/2018
marzuki stevens on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 08/09/2018
Btw, the Nikon F-mount may be just as friendly (as EOS mount) to other legacy lenses via adapters. I use both Canon and Nikon, film and digital cameras. Most of my lenses are old-school manual focus Nikon AIS , but I do have an adapter for my Canon FD lenses to my Nikon DSLRs. I love the LOMO-like results. A quick search online shows you there are quite a few other mounts that will work with the Nikon F mount.
Comment posted: 08/09/2018
Malcolm Myers on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 09/09/2018
Comment posted: 09/09/2018
Comment posted: 09/09/2018
Comment posted: 09/09/2018
Neil on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 09/09/2018
Comment posted: 09/09/2018
Comment posted: 09/09/2018
Comment posted: 09/09/2018
Mathias on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 10/09/2018
If you want digital full frame, unless you shoot mostly in the dark, the 5D with the 50 STM is all you really need. No other digital camera has tempted me since I got my 5Dc a few years ago.
Comment posted: 10/09/2018
Kamil on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 18/09/2018
Comment posted: 18/09/2018
Marc Petzold on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 24/10/2018
I only wished for sensor cleaning (introduced into the 2008 5D II), and a better LCD (also 5D II) but other-wise i never chimp on taken shots onto location - just at home, onto my PC. And i never made a wet cleaning since i ever bought it - the rocket blower is good enough, from time to time.
Before, i've used the 28-70/2.8L USM, 24-105/F4L USM, or because of weight the 28-75/2.8 SP Tamron, but nowadays, the 40/2.8 STM with Tulip Shape Lens Hood & Protection Filter is being glued all time onto my 5D. It's good enough.
My 5D does have the Mirrorfix since 2015, it was done for free, preventive, before the Mirror would accidently drop out.
Good Light!
Marc
Marc Petzold on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 24/10/2018
Just as a Note: *any* Mirror could came of, from the very early 05xxxxxxxx Series, up to 38xxxxxxx Bodies, that's why i've let CPS being fixed this for my 5D. I wouldn't buy any 5D without the Mirrorfix nowadays. Besides that, the 5D does amplify red tones, and it does also have some sort of "organic", Film-like rendering - that's why i've bought it, back into 2008, when the 5D II was being avialable, but therefore, cheaper.
Nowadays, we do life into very interesting times - Fujifilm/Panasonic developes the 1st organic Sensor, curved Sensors also come within time, and Sigma would release 2019 their first Fullframe Foveon (this gives me Goose bumps) mirrorless Camera, but nothing would keep me from shooting my good, old, beloved 5D.
Good Light!
Marc
Comment posted: 24/10/2018
Marc Petzold on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 24/10/2018
I do can recommand the EF 40mm F2.8 STM lens, it's not as narrow as the Nifty Fifty 50/1.8 STM lens, it's wider, and not that wide, as your usual, typical 35mm F2.8 Lens....it's now basically glued onto my 5D Body. And because it's a Pancake Lens, it's really very small and light.
Read the Optical Limits, DPReview Reviews, and others....that smallish Lens is really very good. I do prefer it much, over the 50/1.8 STM.
Good Light
Comment posted: 24/10/2018
Fred on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 01/12/2018
Paul T on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 19/12/2018
If I want higher resolution I just merge a few images in Lightroom (It is so easy and professional now).
I have looked at upgrading it at some point but I the only one which looks any good in the Canon range is the 5D mkiv. The 5D mk ii has colour issues, the 5D mkii has exposure and light leakage issues. The 6D's are not professional/tough enough, and the 1Dx's are too bulky and expensive for me. I will wait until the price on the mk iv comes down more.
I never got my mirror recall done but so far it has been fine (fingers crossed).
I don't worry about the screen. I just bracket when I shoot. Then I just choose the best one in post (By doing this I maximise the use of the sensor). If you intelligently use shutter speed and aperture you can keep you iso much lower than a lazy high iso new camera shooter and therefore get better images as 5Dc lower iso is still way better than new camera high iso. I can see them in more detail in the field if I want by transferring into lightroom on my phone using a card reader plugged into my phone (Transfers in seconds with usb-c).
William Merritt on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 20/12/2018
It can get scary using it in low light areas for weddings. Have been trying to learn more ETTR as this camera is a "noise collector" when used indoors under less than adequate lighting. Flash can make up for it when / if allowed, but for ceremonies it can bring on an anxiety attack. lol
As a side note - I think the shutter sound is so distinct you can identify it blind folded. Loud, but oddly comforting.
As much as I hate to admit it, buying faster lenses and / using adapted legacy lenses can add up to more than replacing the body such as a 6D which is on my radar screen right now and almost doubles the high ISO capability of the 5D. Have used a 7D as a back up but it is a mediocre low light performer as well. All of that said, I still grab the 5 first for weddings and events that are not sports related.
Chak Wong on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 31/01/2019
Two years ago I inherited a 5D from a relative who had gone Sony mirrorless. Whenever I use it with the f1.8 50, I am almost transported to the 1970's when I went out with my Canon AE-1 and f1.8 50 FD lens (and ASA 25 Kodachrome).
I used the half-press-then-recompose method then and I use it now. But with the 5D, half-press locks AE/AF but only if the metering mode is Evaluative. Evaluative Metering AND Spot Focusing do not go together! If I use Spot Metering, I had to first press the * Button before the half-press would work.
You use Single Point Focus, can you throw some light on the matter? Thanks!
Comment posted: 31/01/2019
Lee on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 02/06/2019
Dan Jardine on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 02/08/2019
But, I have recently acquired a Canon 5d 'classic' and I am very very happy with this brick. Yes its is slow and feature'less, and the LCD is useless, in fact i just have the histogram screen set now to get exposure right, but really i was very impressed with what it can achieve still.
Do photographers really need all these features of newer cameras? Maybe, depends on your style. I certainly don't most of the time. What I have learnt to appreciate with this body is it teaches you to slow down and think about your work, not sure why it just does this. I took this out on a pro shoot as a back up body, and did a few shots alongside the rapid 7dmk2 and the pictures were great, they do have a film cinematic feel people try to emulate now with presets, but this thing punches them out naturally! Still life in the old dinosaur yet, just stick with fast primes and all is great!
Even the shutter noise is addictive :)
Blurry Picture for Cameras – Dave Lawrence Photography on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 06/09/2019
Dave on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 06/09/2019
Comment posted: 06/09/2019
Little Round Box on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 17/02/2020
Quazi Sanjeed on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 17/07/2021
In fact, 5D Classic sports a unique reputation in two areas - colors and film look. I hope my one does comply with those.
Quazi Sanjeed on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 19/07/2021
In the image quality department; no other camera can beat it hands down. Moreover, its bigger pixels produce rich and smooth photos that are joy for viewing. I’ve blown them out on 55” LED TV, they look outstanding.
Comment posted: 19/07/2021
Marc on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 29/08/2021
For what it's worth, my 2 EOS 5D Bodies (bought into 2008 new, and the other one into the 2010-12 years 2nd hand, are both into 2xxxxxxxxxx and 3xxxxxxxx serial numbers, and Canon fixed it pro-active for free with the Mirrorfix, which also uses 2 extra reinforcement struts on both sides of the mirror. Problem since End of Oct. 2019, no more spare parts to-do so, the 5D was fallen out of the CPS Program long, many years ago.
Very few (if ever) repair sites still have the spare parts, to-do this Mirror fix. But common sense 2021 nowadays is, out of luck, if you don't have it, you've to stick with it. End of Story, sad but true. But the Mirrorfix was basically being applied for free for >10 years, to be honest.
Good Light.
Pedro on Canon 5D Classic Review – By Ray Goodwin
Comment posted: 18/01/2023
I own a 20 years old 300D as well, still in working condition. It must be the the same sensor maker, because the same applies for its images. Even if the resolution is just 6Mb, the images have some kind of silkiness that makes the images really appealing.
Greetings